Strategies

• A Contract for Services is a helpful tool that outlines the role and responsibilities of the family daycare provider and of the parent. Contracts can include such things as, hours of operation, days of operation (holiday, vacation or sick closures), payment fees/schedules, what the parent is expected to bring with the child (diapers, lunch, etc.), and what the provider will provide (breakfast, activities, etc.). The provider and each parent would sign the contract when the child is enrolled.
• A Parent Handbook could be developed to include policies and procedures that address more fully, the items outlined in the contract and consequences for items that are not followed through with, such missed payments or late ‘pick ups’. A hand book that is written in simple, clear language and includes your policies will help parents know what to expect and will support you in setting appropriate boundaries. Have parents read and sign that they understand prior to the child’s enrollment.
• Provide parents with a service receipt that clearly indicates the amount due, the amount received and any outstanding balance. Keeping good track of your billing and ‘payments made’ will help you to be organized and manage any potential issues with ease.
• It is useful for family daycare providers to have weekly or monthly newsletters for parents. This can be an email or paper hung where the families can see it at drop off or pick up. This offers an opportunity to remind parents of upcoming events, closures and policies.
• Treat all children and their parents with respect. Keep any conversations about personal issues of parents and or their children private.
• When your own family and friends are also your customers, maintaining appropriate boundaries around conversations and behaving professionally, both inside and outside the family daycare environment will help to ensure comfort of everyone.