I Strongly Dislike Starting New Families :|

[Blackcat31]

Well today drop off was no better. No mask, no backpack, and did not return the weekly folder that I sent home on Tuesday. (it literally says on it, bring back Thursday and mom said "oh this is our back and fourth" when I handed it to her...)
At least he did get here at the right time today, so I guess that's a step in the right direction.
I'm feeling like they have no intention of following our policy's, which is a bummer. I am writing a note to send home that asks to re-read over our papers and to follow all procedures. Should I re write the specific ones they are breaking, or just ask them to read over it again? I feel like writing them all out AGAIN is just babying them... I teach kids, I shouldn't have to be teaching the adults...

This is what I have so far. Should I say "follow them or you will not be allowed back"
Also, they have paid through the end of the month. I did let them know if with-in the first week they wanted to leave for any reason, they would be refunded, but said nothing about if I had to ask them to leave...

We are happy to have _________ join us, and she is already learning our routine and doing great! We want to make sure we are all on the same page, as to make everything go smoothly.
Please read over our handbook, Covid policy’s and welcome packet and make sure you are familiar with our routines and requirements. I ask that all policies and procedures be followed, please feel free to ask any questions if there is something you may not understand. I am happy to make copies of any paperwork you hand in as well.

Yes, I would include the part about not following rules/policies may mean loss of services.

I like what you have written so far...but I think it's absolutely necessary to include the part about following rules or not being allowed to stay.

Maybe if they show up again without a backpack and required folder you can refuse the child. If parents show up with out a mask, do the same.

Maybe being denied drop off will speak louder than words,

Ugh...Im feeling like its probably not going to work out... I hate starting new families too so I understand your feelings. :hug:

[Pandaluver21]

Did you discuss it face to face at drop-off and make it clear that today was their last chance? Verbally?

I have restated specific policy's they are not following, face to face. I did not say that this was their last chance because I was getting other kids in at the time.

Yes, I would include the part about not following rules/policies may mean loss of services.

I like what you have written so far...but I think it's absolutely necessary to include the part about following rules or not being allowed to stay.

Maybe if they show up again without a backpack and required folder you can refuse the child. If parents show up with out a mask, do the same.

Maybe being denied drop off will speak louder than words,

Ugh...Im feeling like its probably not going to work out... I hate starting new families too so I understand your feelings. :hug:

I'm having the same feeling I will go ahead and add that this is their last warning. Ugh, I hate this.

Thank you all for your help!

[Pandaluver21]

Ok apparently I have no idea how to word it.

Please let us know if any policy’s are a problem for you, we understand we may not be the best fit for every family, however if our policy’s are not followed starting next week you will be asked to... (this is where I'm drawing a blank. ANd yes I'm aware I'm too nice.... I have grown a backbone over the last 12 years, but I still hate having to have one :P )

[Blackcat31]

Ok apparently I have no idea how to word it.

Please let us know if any policy’s are a problem for you, we understand we may not be the best fit for every family, however if our policy’s are not followed starting next week you will be asked to... (this is where I'm drawing a blank. ANd yes I'm aware I'm too nice.... I have grown a backbone over the last 12 years, but I still hate having to have one :P )

"Please let us know if any policies are a problem for you. We understand we may not be the best fit for every family, however if our policies are not followed starting next week you will be asked to...find alternate child care (preschool) arrangements. Our policies are in place for many reasons but they are non-negotiable."

I added the wording I would use

[Pandaluver21]

"Please let us know if any policies are a problem for you. We understand we may not be the best fit for every family, however if our policies are not followed starting next week you will be asked to...find alternate child care (preschool) arrangements. Our policies are in place for many reasons but they are non-negotiable."

I added the wording I would use

I thought about saying "looking for another preschool" but it sounded like a suggesting :P I like what you wrote, thank you.

[Cat Herder]

"Good Morning, DCM/DCD. We seem to have gotten off to a bad start this week. Please re-read your contract, today, and let's clarify what seems to be causing your family such difficulty.

If our policies are not followed starting next week you will be asked to find alternate child care (preschool) arrangements and our contract will be terminated. Our policies are in place for many reasons and they are non-negotiable. Thanks in advance."

I edited it for my program.

[Rockgirl]

Ok apparently I have no idea how to word it.

Please let us know if any policy’s are a problem for you, we understand we may not be the best fit for every family, however if our policy’s are not followed starting next week you will be asked to... (this is where I'm drawing a blank. ANd yes I'm aware I'm too nice.... I have grown a backbone over the last 12 years, but I still hate having to have one :P )

I wouldn’t even say “Let us know if any policies are a problem for you”.....that suggests there can be adaptations made for them.

I think Cat Herder worded it perfectly above.

[Pandaluver21]

I wouldn’t even say “Let us know if any policies are a problem for you”.....that suggests there can be adaptations made for them.

I think Cat Herder worded it perfectly above.

I can see that. I meant "Let us know if you won't be following them, and going elsewhere"

[Pandaluver21]

Brought back the folder at pickup saying dad "forgot it"
Papers inside were dated today
Still had sticky note inside stating they needed to bring a backpack...
Sent the letter home, hope it goes well!

[Cat Herder]

Brought back the folder at pickup saying dad "forgot it"
Papers inside were dated today
Still had sticky note inside stating they needed to bring a backpack...
Sent the letter home, hope it goes well!

Good luck!

I wanted to mention I would generally ask if they were having a hard time getting a backpack the correct size and would offer to get one for them. Sometimes I charge other times I don't, it depends on the family.

[Pandaluver21]

Good luck!

I wanted to mention I would generally ask if they were having a hard time getting a backpack the correct size and would offer to get one for them. Sometimes I charge other times I don't, it depends on the family.

That's a good point, I did work with another family about getting a used one but they ended up finding one one sale and it all worked out.
The family I am struggling with is definitely not having issues financially, but maybe trouble finding it? Maybe It's just me but I figure people would ask or say something... but I guess not everyone does that..


She just messaged me (on Facebook, after telling her all communication needs to go through the daily connect app, which they still haven't downloaded) and said "I don't understand what we aren't following, just tell us and we'll do it"
I'm frustrated because I HAVE told them, many times in the last two days of class. I intentionally didn't add them to the letter because I want them to actually READ the paperwork instead of me having to bring up each thing.
It's not huge things, I just don't like having to "babysit" parents that aren't trying. I am ALL about communication on both sides. I would rather have a "hot mess" parent that keeps communication open :: Those have actually been my favorite parents :P

[Blackcat31]

That's a good point, I did work with another family about getting a used one but they ended up finding one one sale and it all worked out.
The family I am struggling with is definitely not having issues financially, but maybe trouble finding it? Maybe It's just me but I figure people would ask or say something... but I guess not everyone does that..


She just messaged me (on Facebook, after telling her all communication needs to go through the daily connect app, which they still haven't downloaded) and said "I don't understand what we aren't following, just tell us and we'll do it"
I'm frustrated because I HAVE told them, many times in the last two days of class. I intentionally didn't add them to the letter because I want them to actually READ the paperwork instead of me having to bring up each thing.
It's not huge things, I just don't like having to "babysit" parents that aren't trying. I am ALL about communication on both sides. I would rather have a "hot mess" parent that keeps communication open :: Those have actually been my favorite parents :P

Maybe reply with something vague like "not complying with needed supplies, protocols for pick up/drop off and required communication methods. All of which can be found in the paperwork provided upon enrollment and signed by you."

Let them figure out what that specifically means by reading.

[Pandaluver21]

Maybe reply with something vague like "not complying with needed supplies, protocols for pick up/drop off and required communication methods. All of which can be found in the paperwork provided upon enrollment and signed by you."

Let them figure out what that specifically means by reading.

That's much nicer than "you wouldn't be confused if you actually READ the paperwork" ::

Mine is lengthy, but how does it look? I decided to go ahead and address specific issues, but wanted to make sure to also state that I needed her to read over things so we don't have to go over things again and again...


"I just want to make sure we get off on the right foot. There are a few things that were in the paperwork that may not have gotten read or were misunderstood. I do my best to make sure everything can be found in the paperwork provided upon enrollment and signed by parents. I know there were a few questions you had asked, that I had covered in the paperwork. I am happy to re-send anything needed to make sure we have no issues moving forward.
-Our welcome packet states that everyone has a backpack that fits their folder.
-Our Covid policy’s state that parents need to wear a face covering at drop off and pick up as a courtesy to myself and other parents.
-I also ask that you download the Daily Connect app for communication as well as clocking in/out. This keeps it quick and touch free.
I am HUGE on communication and want to make sure we are open on both sides. Please, if you are unsure or struggling with anything let me know. (for example, if you are unable to find a backpack)
I appreciate that drop off time was adjusted today after addressing it on Tuesday, I want to make sure we can keep that communication open"

The " I know there were a few questions you had asked, that I had covered in the paperwork." Sounds a little weird, but I want to include it in some way. It was actually SEVERAL questions that were already in the paperwork...


Thanks for your help guys, I haven't had to start a new student in about 2 years and I don't miss it ::

[Blackcat31]

That's much nicer than "you wouldn't be confused if you actually READ the paperwork" ::

:: ::

The " I know there were a few questions you had asked, that I had covered in the paperwork." Sounds a little weird, but I want to include it in some way. It was actually SEVERAL questions that were already in the paperwork...

How about something like:

"Most of the questions you've asked are covered thoroughly in the enrollment paperwork however I will address the issues that are of the most importance. For example the need for a back pack that fits the folder........"

...Go on from there....

I would probably end the reply with something like "in the future please refer to the enrollment packet to assist in answering any questions you may have. Should you be unable to find the answers or you have a specific issue that needs to be addressed please feel free to let me know."

[Ariana]

I think I would simply say "have you read the contract"? There is absolutely no reason she should be confused about what she is missing if she read the contract. This is a person who is used to not having to figure anything out on their own and needs their hand held like 90% of parents out there.