I HATE Text Messages

[providerandmomof4]

I have a land line for dc. I used to have a cell that I used for dc but I got rid of it! I find that parents don't call me for things that they used to text. The ol' "I'll be there today at 4", when there scheduled time is 3 text, just doesn't happen anymore. I don't think that they want to talk to me and say, "I'll be late, again." Parents are so much more reliable when they have to hear your voice.
I have a cell phone and I take it with me anytime we are away from home, but dcp don't call me on it. AND it doesn't have text::

[crazydaycarelady]

I prefer texts also. I get back to them when I can, sometimes quickly sometimes not. I text the parents also.

[MarinaVanessa]

I am probably in the minority here, but all of my parents PREFER to text, and I do too. I tell them to MAKE SURE I am aware if it's important (I text back) and it makes updating so easy for me. I dislike the phone, and talking on it is almost impossible at all times in my house.

Amen. Texts are easier for quick messages, faster, and I receive them no matter where I am. During the day I can't hear anything when I'm on Tue phone anyway because of the lids playing. And I turn the ringer off of all phones during naptime. They know that if they need to actually discuss something with me they need to schedule a meeting or call with me during non daycare hours.

[Chipmunk]

If you really hate text messages, change your policy to state that you will charge the parents each time they send one - say, $1 per text.

Or tell that particular family you lost/broke/turned off your cell phone and haven't (or wont) gotten a new one - so, it's best for them just to call.

Put your landline number on everything you send home just to drive that point home for them, too.

[Cat Herder]

I lovethis text messages.

It forces them to get to the point instead of beating around the bush for 20+ minutes. happyface

If the issue requires more discussion I simply text back "I will email in a bit" or "I have time for a conference at 6:15 tonight. Will that work for you".

I prefer written documentation to prevent he said/she said later. It also makes it easier to attach documents like their scanned/signed contract for clarification.

I also enforce the "Closed after 6pm" meaning unless there is an emergency (death in family, ER trip, etc) I will not respond until the following day. All lines are assumed silenced.

[Sunchimes]

I love texts because I hate to talk to real people. We have the understanding that we all reply to texts, even if it's just "k". That way, we know it was received. I have one mom that now and then lets the kids sleep in and come in late. She always sends me a text as she is leaving home so that I am ready to answer the door. Sometimes, by the time I text "k", she's in the driveway because she just lives a few blocks away. But at least I'm not in the back of the house where I can't hear the doorbell.

[Stacy214]

I'm a texter ...I won't even answer a phone call, it's less convienant for me and usually at the most incovient times, so with texts, when I am ready and have a free minute I can shoot a text or reply ...I also send lots of pictures to my parents

I would change your policy and let parents know if you don't like it, I think they would understand, texting is a personal preference for sure.

[dave4him]

I actually use text for two of my DM's just because its easier for me

[lovemykidstoo]

Like I said in an earlier post, I don't mind texts at all if they're during the day and it's something that's not something that needs my attention immediately because alot of time I don't have my phone right with me. What does irritate me about texting is if it's about a drop off time, such as if someone is not coming for the day or if someone is going to be late. In those cases I appreciate a phone call as if I'm busy, I may not hear the ding of my phone texting. Also, alot of times since I'm not one to utilize my cell that much, it could be in my purse or even in my car. I did tell the one dad that if I don't answer back immediately that means I didn't get it and that he should call me. I told him that I will always answer right away. Some texts for other things like how Johnny's day was or if they want to know if they need more supplies etc, I don't mind that being texted to me at all.

[Meeko]

I enjoy living in the dark ages. I made TMobile disable all text capabilities. No incoming or outgoing.

Speak to me in person or not at all!

Emails are OK if it's just info and not time sensitive as I don't always check them regularly.

[avaross09]

I think sometimes it is the easiest way to communicate when you can’t say a word.