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Daycare Center and Family Home Forum>What Should I Do? Advice
daycare 08:37 AM 09-14-2012
I have a family that receives a sibling discount. In my policy, it states that Children are kept as a unit, attend care together and are absent together.
Well DCD comes and tells me this morning that DCM is taking only 1 of the kids to the grandparents next month for about a week, but the other child will be here. Um ok?????
So now I am sitting here thinking what to do?? Of course I need to tell them, sorry, you signed the contract.
The other thing that I am thinking is that if they want the child to stay behind, there really is no penalty. I could just not give them the discount for that month, but that's only about $50.00.
One of my local DCfriends said if the kid stays then I take them off the sibling discount program and make them pay back the discounts already given. I think that is harsh.
I could just remove them from the discount program. Although, It does not state in the contract anything about discount being taken away for this reason.
I need help making a decision on what to do.
Well DCD comes and tells me this morning that DCM is taking only 1 of the kids to the grandparents next month for about a week, but the other child will be here. Um ok?????
So now I am sitting here thinking what to do?? Of course I need to tell them, sorry, you signed the contract.
The other thing that I am thinking is that if they want the child to stay behind, there really is no penalty. I could just not give them the discount for that month, but that's only about $50.00.
One of my local DCfriends said if the kid stays then I take them off the sibling discount program and make them pay back the discounts already given. I think that is harsh.
I could just remove them from the discount program. Although, It does not state in the contract anything about discount being taken away for this reason.
I need help making a decision on what to do.
daycarediva 08:45 AM 09-14-2012
So if dcp pay 125+125=250/w for 2 kids, and you offer a $25 discount on kid 2, they pay 225, right? If kid is absent, what is your policy?
If that was in my case, they have to pay weither they are here or not, so it would be the same amount regardless.
What do you do when one gets sick but the other is healthy?
If that was in my case, they have to pay weither they are here or not, so it would be the same amount regardless.
What do you do when one gets sick but the other is healthy?
daycare 08:50 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycarediva:
So if dcp pay 125+125=250/w for 2 kids, and you offer a $25 discount on kid 2, they pay 225, right? If kid is absent, what is your policy?
If that was in my case, they have to pay weither they are here or not, so it would be the same amount regardless.
What do you do when one gets sick but the other is healthy?
they are absent together...NO reason needed.So if dcp pay 125+125=250/w for 2 kids, and you offer a $25 discount on kid 2, they pay 225, right? If kid is absent, what is your policy?
If that was in my case, they have to pay weither they are here or not, so it would be the same amount regardless.
What do you do when one gets sick but the other is healthy?
See heres the thing. I give a discount, yet I dont get a discount. So the only way that I could make up for the discount that I am giving them is if they are always absent together..
they pay if child is here or not
Willow 08:54 AM 09-14-2012
I think you're putting way too much though into this for the child only being gone a week. And I don't quite understand your stipulation of attending exclusively as a unit either.
What would happen if one of a unit were ill? Do you make the entire family stay home? What if just one has a doctors appointment? Or breaks a leg and needs physical therapy or something of the like....would you really require the parent drag the other child with?
What about when one of them enters preschool or kindergarten? Unless they are twins how do you work the discounted rate then?
I offer a sibling discount of $.25/ hour. If say only one child of two in a family is in attendance for the day then the full hourly rate is applied to that day. If both are in attendance then the full hourly rate is applied to one child and the discounted rate is applied to the time the second child accumulates for that day.
Unless it says in the contract that the parents will be at risk of losing the sibling discount you offer indefinitely if the children don't both attend every single day and same the exact same hours together always, then I don't think that would be a fair thing to do at all.
If I were you I would treat this as you treat any other child's absence. How would you charge if both of them would be gone for the week?
It's really not a big deal.
What would happen if one of a unit were ill? Do you make the entire family stay home? What if just one has a doctors appointment? Or breaks a leg and needs physical therapy or something of the like....would you really require the parent drag the other child with?
What about when one of them enters preschool or kindergarten? Unless they are twins how do you work the discounted rate then?
I offer a sibling discount of $.25/ hour. If say only one child of two in a family is in attendance for the day then the full hourly rate is applied to that day. If both are in attendance then the full hourly rate is applied to one child and the discounted rate is applied to the time the second child accumulates for that day.
Unless it says in the contract that the parents will be at risk of losing the sibling discount you offer indefinitely if the children don't both attend every single day and same the exact same hours together always, then I don't think that would be a fair thing to do at all.
If I were you I would treat this as you treat any other child's absence. How would you charge if both of them would be gone for the week?
It's really not a big deal.
Willow 08:59 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycare:
they pay if child is here or not
they pay if child is here or not
Then there is your answer.
You charge exact the same as you always do.
Although I'm not sure why this has anything to do with the sibling discount then? If you require parents to pay exactly the same regardless of attendance why do you feel like you're being slighted or put in some sort of pickle that would prompt you to take away a contracted discount?
I'd be throwing a little party if I were you, one less kid you have to care for that week and you're still going to get paid the exact same as always. Sounds like a fantastic deal for you if you ask me lol.
daycare 09:07 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Willow:
I think you're putting way too much though into this for the child only being gone a week. And I don't quite understand your stipulation of attending exclusively as a unit either.
What would happen if one of a unit were ill? Do you make the entire family stay home? What if just one has a doctors appointment? Or breaks a leg and needs physical therapy or something of the like....would you really require the parent drag the other child with?
What about when one of them enters preschool or kindergarten? Unless they are twins how do you work the discounted rate then?
I offer a sibling discount of $.25/ hour. If say only one child of two in a family is in attendance for the day then the full hourly rate is applied to that day. If both are in attendance then the full hourly rate is applied to one child and the discounted rate is applied to the time the second child accumulates for that day.
Unless it says in the contract that the parents will be at risk of losing the sibling discount you offer indefinitely if the children don't both attend every single day and same the exact same hours together always, then I don't think that would be a fair thing to do at all.
If I were you I would treat this as you treat any other child's absence. How would you charge if both of them would be gone for the week?
It's really not a big deal.
it does say that if a child needs to attend an appt, that with advance notice I will allow for it.I think you're putting way too much though into this for the child only being gone a week. And I don't quite understand your stipulation of attending exclusively as a unit either.
What would happen if one of a unit were ill? Do you make the entire family stay home? What if just one has a doctors appointment? Or breaks a leg and needs physical therapy or something of the like....would you really require the parent drag the other child with?
What about when one of them enters preschool or kindergarten? Unless they are twins how do you work the discounted rate then?
I offer a sibling discount of $.25/ hour. If say only one child of two in a family is in attendance for the day then the full hourly rate is applied to that day. If both are in attendance then the full hourly rate is applied to one child and the discounted rate is applied to the time the second child accumulates for that day.
Unless it says in the contract that the parents will be at risk of losing the sibling discount you offer indefinitely if the children don't both attend every single day and same the exact same hours together always, then I don't think that would be a fair thing to do at all.
If I were you I would treat this as you treat any other child's absence. How would you charge if both of them would be gone for the week?
It's really not a big deal.
the thing is, is that this is what was signed and agreed to and now they are going back on their word.
Yes I would expect them to keep both home if one were ill and not the other.
MarinaVanessa 09:11 AM 09-14-2012
Going by what you have said already ...
I think you need to see it as 2 seperate issues. If one was sick and the other wasn't and they both stayed home, would they still pay for the day? What about if they both went on vacation and were gone for that time? Would they pay for that time? If they would then you would still charge them.
The second issue then would be whether or not to allow the 2nd sibling to attend DC while the other one is out. That would be under your discretion whether or not you were to allow the other child to attend DC or not. Personally I wouldn't see it as a big deal but it mught be a big deal to you.
If they wouldn't pay for the time that they were on vacation then don't charge for the one that is leaving and charge the full rate for the one that is staying. If they have some vacation time accrued then don't charge for that period and charge their rate for both kids for the remaining time even if only one child attends. Then explain to the parents that you are already bending one rule for them by allowing one child to attend while the other doesn't and you aren't willing to negotiate any other rule. Also explain whether or not they lose the vacation time for the second child if only the first child goes on vacation (since they are both supposed to be absent). As in do both children have to take vacation together in order to get the free vacation week (or two or whatever you give your clients).
How do you handle vacations? Do clients get a free week or 2?
KWIM?
I think you need to see it as 2 seperate issues. If one was sick and the other wasn't and they both stayed home, would they still pay for the day? What about if they both went on vacation and were gone for that time? Would they pay for that time? If they would then you would still charge them.
The second issue then would be whether or not to allow the 2nd sibling to attend DC while the other one is out. That would be under your discretion whether or not you were to allow the other child to attend DC or not. Personally I wouldn't see it as a big deal but it mught be a big deal to you.
If they wouldn't pay for the time that they were on vacation then don't charge for the one that is leaving and charge the full rate for the one that is staying. If they have some vacation time accrued then don't charge for that period and charge their rate for both kids for the remaining time even if only one child attends. Then explain to the parents that you are already bending one rule for them by allowing one child to attend while the other doesn't and you aren't willing to negotiate any other rule. Also explain whether or not they lose the vacation time for the second child if only the first child goes on vacation (since they are both supposed to be absent). As in do both children have to take vacation together in order to get the free vacation week (or two or whatever you give your clients).
How do you handle vacations? Do clients get a free week or 2?
KWIM?
Crazy8 09:24 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Willow:
Then there is your answer.
I'd be throwing a little party if I were you, one less kid you have to care for that week and you're still going to get paid the exact same as always. Sounds like a fantastic deal for you if you ask me lol.
that's what I was thinking reading the OP... I don't see the problem at all. 2 kids even with discount equals say $400/week, that particular week you'd be getting $400 for just one child. Sounds good to me!!!Then there is your answer.
I'd be throwing a little party if I were you, one less kid you have to care for that week and you're still going to get paid the exact same as always. Sounds like a fantastic deal for you if you ask me lol.
daycare 09:28 AM 09-14-2012
THE fact is that they signed a contract that states BOTH children must be absent together and now they are asking if they can break this policy.
I give them over a $650.00 a year discount that I will never recover. If they are both absent then I dont pay for food for two children that day, use less supplies and what not. It is the only way that I can make up for any of the money I lose while giving the discount.
I give them over a $650.00 a year discount that I will never recover. If they are both absent then I dont pay for food for two children that day, use less supplies and what not. It is the only way that I can make up for any of the money I lose while giving the discount.
MarinaVanessa 09:33 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycare:
THE fact is that they signed a contract that states BOTH children must be absent together and now they are asking if they can break this policy.
I give them over a $650.00 a year discount that I will never recover. If they are both absent then I dont pay for food for two children that day, use less supplies and what not. It is the only way that I can make up for any of the money I lose while giving the discount.
Then it sounds to me like you either have to stay firm and not allow the second child to attend daycare either or get rid of the discount altogether.THE fact is that they signed a contract that states BOTH children must be absent together and now they are asking if they can break this policy.
I give them over a $650.00 a year discount that I will never recover. If they are both absent then I dont pay for food for two children that day, use less supplies and what not. It is the only way that I can make up for any of the money I lose while giving the discount.
Blackcat31 09:35 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by MarinaVanessa:
Then it sounds to me like you either have to stay firm and not allow the second child to attend daycare either or get rid of the discount altogether.
Or just charge the regular fee for the week as if both kids were still attending.Then it sounds to me like you either have to stay firm and not allow the second child to attend daycare either or get rid of the discount altogether.
itlw8 09:35 AM 09-14-2012
what do you do? you enjoy the lighter week and still get paid the same as usual
EntropyControlSpecialist 09:37 AM 09-14-2012
I would discuss with them what you said in your last post. Either say they can abide by the policy that they agreed to or you will remove them from the sibling discount program for the future.
MarinaVanessa 09:40 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
Or just charge the regular fee for the week as if both kids were still attending.
I suggested this as well but it seems to me as if it's the part that only one child is going on vacation that is bothering her. Not the money part. By the sound of it she will be getting paid no matter what for both kids even if one child won't attend. She's bothered that they are expecting to still bring the one child that is staying and not keeping that child home as well or sending that child on vacation as well... thus breaking the "Children are kept as a unit, attend care together and are absent together" rule.Or just charge the regular fee for the week as if both kids were still attending.
daycare 09:43 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by MarinaVanessa:
I suggested this as well but it seems to me as if it's the part that only one child is going on vacation that is bothering her. Not the money part. By the sound of it she will be getting paid no matter what for both kids even if one child won't attend. She's bothered that they are expecting to still bring the one child that is staying and not keeping that child home as well or sending that child on vacation as well... thus breaking the "Children are kept as a unit, attend care together and are absent together" rule.
Yes....I think that I am botherd by the fact that they seem to just want to ignore my policy. I think that I would feel different about it if they came to me and said ..." I know it's aganist policy, but would we be able to allow DCK to stay while I take the other with me"...I suggested this as well but it seems to me as if it's the part that only one child is going on vacation that is bothering her. Not the money part. By the sound of it she will be getting paid no matter what for both kids even if one child won't attend. She's bothered that they are expecting to still bring the one child that is staying and not keeping that child home as well or sending that child on vacation as well... thus breaking the "Children are kept as a unit, attend care together and are absent together" rule.
Instead
they are expecting for me to just do it. I do it this time, they will want it next time too. I let this slide, then next thing you know I have to let other things slide too.
I am not trying to be difficult, I am just trying to keep my policies in place.
and yes, I get paid for both children if they are here or not.
Blackcat31 09:52 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycare:
Yes....I think that I am botherd by the fact that they seem to just want to ignore my policy. I think that I would feel different about it if they came to me and said ..." I know it's aganist policy, but would we be able to allow DCK to stay while I take the other with me"...
Instead
they are expecting for me to just do it. I do it this time, they will want it next time too. I let this slide, then next thing you know I have to let other things slide too.
I am not trying to be difficult, I am just trying to keep my policies in place.
and yes, I get paid for both children if they are here or not.
I think this is the part where being self-employed and being the boss comes into play. Yes....I think that I am botherd by the fact that they seem to just want to ignore my policy. I think that I would feel different about it if they came to me and said ..." I know it's aganist policy, but would we be able to allow DCK to stay while I take the other with me"...
Instead
they are expecting for me to just do it. I do it this time, they will want it next time too. I let this slide, then next thing you know I have to let other things slide too.
I am not trying to be difficult, I am just trying to keep my policies in place.
and yes, I get paid for both children if they are here or not.
I would definitely talk with the parents and let them know that this is an issue that needs to be discussed and YOU will be the one deciding if you will let it fly or not.
I would be upset too if they just assumed but at the same time, they may be thinking that you "both kids stay home when one does" rule is in regards to illnesses and such.
So like anything in this business, this is where ocmmunication comes in. If you are bothered that they assumed and didn't ask first, say so.
If you are willing to do it and break your policy, then do it and tell them it is a ONE time thing because YOU made the exception and that is your right as the business owner.
daycare 09:55 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I think this is the part where being self-employed and being the boss comes into play.
I would definitely talk with the parents and let them know that this is an issue that needs to be discussed and YOU will be the one deciding if you will let it fly or not.
I would be upset too if they just assumed but at the same time, they may be thinking that you "both kids stay home when one does" rule is in regards to illnesses and such.
So like anything in this business, this is where ocmmunication comes in. If you are bothered that they assumed and didn't ask first, say so.
If you are willing to do it and break your policy, then do it and tell them it is a ONE time thing because YOU made the exception and that is your right as the business owner.
Im getting you a cape....cuz your my HERO!!!I think this is the part where being self-employed and being the boss comes into play.
I would definitely talk with the parents and let them know that this is an issue that needs to be discussed and YOU will be the one deciding if you will let it fly or not.
I would be upset too if they just assumed but at the same time, they may be thinking that you "both kids stay home when one does" rule is in regards to illnesses and such.
So like anything in this business, this is where ocmmunication comes in. If you are bothered that they assumed and didn't ask first, say so.
If you are willing to do it and break your policy, then do it and tell them it is a ONE time thing because YOU made the exception and that is your right as the business owner.
Yes, this is what I need to do. I guess just wanted to make sure that I use my words to make it clear that this is NOT about money.
My3cents 10:02 AM 09-14-2012
I don't give discounted care so I don't do a discount. My services are still the same, probably more because you are dealing with two or more kiddo's from the same family and all that brings with it. If I were asked, I would have to look at that situation and go from there. Need verses just wanting that from me. My needs are that I am not working for nothing. I work hard. I do a good job and I don't think other jobs would offer a discount to employees for doing the same work. (or maybe they would and do) I don't. My rates are fair. Again I would have to access the situation and go from there- but it would have to be a true need and me wanting to help out another human being.
Willow 10:18 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by My3cents:
I don't give discounted care so I don't do a discount. My services are still the same, probably more because you are dealing with two or more kiddo's from the same family and all that brings with it. If I were asked, I would have to look at that situation and go from there. Need verses just wanting that from me. My needs are that I am not working for nothing. I work hard. I do a good job and I don't think other jobs would offer a discount to employees for doing the same work. (or maybe they would and do) I don't. My rates are fair. Again I would have to access the situation and go from there- but it would have to be a true need and me wanting to help out another human being.
I don't give discounted care so I don't do a discount. My services are still the same, probably more because you are dealing with two or more kiddo's from the same family and all that brings with it. If I were asked, I would have to look at that situation and go from there. Need verses just wanting that from me. My needs are that I am not working for nothing. I work hard. I do a good job and I don't think other jobs would offer a discount to employees for doing the same work. (or maybe they would and do) I don't. My rates are fair. Again I would have to access the situation and go from there- but it would have to be a true need and me wanting to help out another human being.
I cannot speak for everyone but I personally offer discounts for families with multiple children in my care because fact of the matter is child care is expensive *and* I can more than afford to.
Doing so has nothing to do with providing a discounted level of care, working less hard than other providers, feeling like I'm working for nothing or that my established rates are fair or not.
Heidi 10:21 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Willow:
Then there is your answer.
You charge exact the same as you always do.
Although I'm not sure why this has anything to do with the sibling discount then? If you require parents to pay exactly the same regardless of attendance why do you feel like you're being slighted or put in some sort of pickle that would prompt you to take away a contracted discount?
I'd be throwing a little party if I were you, one less kid you have to care for that week and you're still going to get paid the exact same as always. Sounds like a fantastic deal for you if you ask me lol.
I agree with this. If they are paying whether there or not, then you are being paid the same to take care of one less child. Seems like a good deal for you!Then there is your answer.
You charge exact the same as you always do.
Although I'm not sure why this has anything to do with the sibling discount then? If you require parents to pay exactly the same regardless of attendance why do you feel like you're being slighted or put in some sort of pickle that would prompt you to take away a contracted discount?
I'd be throwing a little party if I were you, one less kid you have to care for that week and you're still going to get paid the exact same as always. Sounds like a fantastic deal for you if you ask me lol.
So, I read a few more posts and now I get where your comming from. It sounds like you just need to have that conversation....
daycare 10:25 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Heidi:
I agree with this. If they are paying whether there or not, then you are being paid the same to take care of one less child. Seems like a good deal for you!
So, I read a few more posts and now I get where your comming from. It sounds like you just need to have that conversation....
but its not about that....Its about the simple fact that they signed the contract and now want to just not follow it without asking. I agree with this. If they are paying whether there or not, then you are being paid the same to take care of one less child. Seems like a good deal for you!
So, I read a few more posts and now I get where your comming from. It sounds like you just need to have that conversation....
Like CAT said, I need to talk to them and let them know that I will let it go this time, but not next. I have been doing this long enough to know that if I let this policy slide then it will be something else and something else and so on and so on.....
Of course we all don't run our businesses the same. You have your reasons why you do certain things, just as I do mine.
MarinaVanessa 10:26 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Willow:
I cannot speak for everyone but I personally offer discounts for families with multiple children in my care because fact of the matter is child care is expensive *and* I can more than afford to.
And that's great!! That's the beauty of this business, being able to set your own rules I cannot speak for everyone but I personally offer discounts for families with multiple children in my care because fact of the matter is child care is expensive *and* I can more than afford to.
. I can afford to give discounts but chose not to of only for the simple reason that I am not responsible for a family's circumstances. Children are expensive in general and childcare is one of the biggest expenses related to having children (aside from college). I simply don't feel the need or a responsibility to discount my services for a family simply because they have more children. I have discounted services before and will again but for other reasons. I don't do it simply because they have more than just one child. I love that about being a business owner. I can change and give "special" to whoever I want or choose not to
I love my job
countrymom 10:29 AM 09-14-2012
first I don't understand why you want them to attend together, thats weird. I've had it where one child has an appoitment and the other doesn't but the parents can't take both because they need to listen to the dr.
I would just charge then for the one child full rate. I give a discount if both children attend, if one attends then I charge regular rate. My discount is only 5 dollars off.
I would just charge then for the one child full rate. I give a discount if both children attend, if one attends then I charge regular rate. My discount is only 5 dollars off.
daycare 10:38 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by countrymom:
first I don't understand why you want them to attend together, thats weird. I've had it where one child has an appoitment and the other doesn't but the parents can't take both because they need to listen to the dr.
I would just charge then for the one child full rate. I give a discount if both children attend, if one attends then I charge regular rate. My discount is only 5 dollars off.
I had to find a way to make up the loss that I am taking by giving a discount. EVERY business does it. Most do it by putting items on sale to get you in the door hoping that you will take advantage of buying NON-sale items.first I don't understand why you want them to attend together, thats weird. I've had it where one child has an appoitment and the other doesn't but the parents can't take both because they need to listen to the dr.
I would just charge then for the one child full rate. I give a discount if both children attend, if one attends then I charge regular rate. My discount is only 5 dollars off.
I don't have that ability, so this was the way that I chose to do it. It may be weird to you, but it is what works for me.
when both children are out, it saves me money in the long run, making the only way for me to be able to give the discount. Which I know I will not even make back even close to the amount of the discount that I am giving
Willow 10:53 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by MarinaVanessa:
And that's great!! That's the beauty of this business, being able to set your own rules. I can afford to give discounts but chose not to of only for the simple reason that I am not responsible for a family's circumstances. Children are expensive in general and childcare is one of the biggest expenses related to having children (aside from college). I simply don't feel the need or a responsibility to discount my services for a family simply because they have more children. I have discounted services before and will again but for other reasons. I don't do it simply because they have more than just one child.
I love that about being a business owner. I can change and give "special" to whoever I want or choose not to
I love my job
And that's great!! That's the beauty of this business, being able to set your own rules
. I can afford to give discounts but chose not to of only for the simple reason that I am not responsible for a family's circumstances. Children are expensive in general and childcare is one of the biggest expenses related to having children (aside from college). I simply don't feel the need or a responsibility to discount my services for a family simply because they have more children. I have discounted services before and will again but for other reasons. I don't do it simply because they have more than just one child. I love that about being a business owner. I can change and give "special" to whoever I want or choose not to
I love my job
Meh.
It's not about feeling a "need" or "responsibility" to do anything. None of my families would be destitute or anything even near it if I didn't offer that.
It's not about being responsible for a families "circumstances" either.
I simply like to. It makes me feel good charging only what I need to make my ends meet and it makes my families happy that they can invest that money they're saving into doing things together when their kids aren't here with me.
I am swear on a stack of holy bibles one of those providers that would continue to work for free if I won the lottery tomorrow, and I wouldn't feel slighted by that in the least.
I will agree with you though that that's what I love about being a business owner too, and I absolutely adore my job as well
daycarediva 10:59 AM 09-14-2012
I don't see how both kids being out together hurts you? I fail to understand why you have this policy. To be honest, if I was the parent I would assume it was for illness as well. Can you explain it better? I guess I am still confused. LOL! Might be lack of sleep or my screamer today, who knows.
child A attends and pays $100 a week even when absent
child B attends and pays $75 a week even when absent
Child A is on vacation and child B is in attendance all week. You still get paid $175.
Where is the loss of income?
If Child A and Child B were on vacation, you would still be paid $175
If Child A and Child B were in attendance, you would still be paid 175
Where is the loss if one attends and one does not? I have had a few sibling sets, they pay for the slot, not attendance, and in summer older dcg does more things and is absent more often. They still pay, even though I gave them a discount (10%) it doesn't affect me either way. I may not LOVE that dcb gets upset because he knows big sis is with Auntie at the water park or grama at the lake, but it isn't my problem/business.
child A attends and pays $100 a week even when absent
child B attends and pays $75 a week even when absent
Child A is on vacation and child B is in attendance all week. You still get paid $175.
Where is the loss of income?
If Child A and Child B were on vacation, you would still be paid $175
If Child A and Child B were in attendance, you would still be paid 175
Where is the loss if one attends and one does not? I have had a few sibling sets, they pay for the slot, not attendance, and in summer older dcg does more things and is absent more often. They still pay, even though I gave them a discount (10%) it doesn't affect me either way. I may not LOVE that dcb gets upset because he knows big sis is with Auntie at the water park or grama at the lake, but it isn't my problem/business.
daycare 11:04 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycarediva:
I don't see how both kids being out together hurts you? I fail to understand why you have this policy. To be honest, if I was the parent I would assume it was for illness as well. Can you explain it better? I guess I am still confused. LOL! Might be lack of sleep or my screamer today, who knows.
child A attends and pays $100 a week even when absent
child B attends and pays $75 a week even when absent
Child A is on vacation and child B is in attendance all week. You still get paid $175.
Where is the loss of income?
If Child A and Child B were on vacation, you would still be paid $175
If Child A and Child B were in attendance, you would still be paid 175
Where is the loss if one attends and one does not? I have had a few sibling sets, they pay for the slot, not attendance, and in summer older dcg does more things and is absent more often. They still pay, even though I gave them a discount (10%) it doesn't affect me either way. I may not LOVE that dcb gets upset because he knows big sis is with Auntie at the water park or grama at the lake, but it isn't my problem/business.
yes you are misunderstanding....it has nothing to do with money.......I don't see how both kids being out together hurts you? I fail to understand why you have this policy. To be honest, if I was the parent I would assume it was for illness as well. Can you explain it better? I guess I am still confused. LOL! Might be lack of sleep or my screamer today, who knows.
child A attends and pays $100 a week even when absent
child B attends and pays $75 a week even when absent
Child A is on vacation and child B is in attendance all week. You still get paid $175.
Where is the loss of income?
If Child A and Child B were on vacation, you would still be paid $175
If Child A and Child B were in attendance, you would still be paid 175
Where is the loss if one attends and one does not? I have had a few sibling sets, they pay for the slot, not attendance, and in summer older dcg does more things and is absent more often. They still pay, even though I gave them a discount (10%) it doesn't affect me either way. I may not LOVE that dcb gets upset because he knows big sis is with Auntie at the water park or grama at the lake, but it isn't my problem/business.
I am not at a loss if one comes and the other does not....Please read the other post
renodeb 11:15 AM 09-14-2012
Ok, first off I dont mess with a sib disc. I would just charge them the same as they have been paying. Its still the child's spot right?
Deb
Deb
daycarediva 11:23 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycare:
I had to find a way to make up the loss that I am taking by giving a discount. EVERY business does it. Most do it by putting items on sale to get you in the door hoping that you will take advantage of buying NON-sale items.
I don't have that ability, so this was the way that I chose to do it. It may be weird to you, but it is what works for me.
when both children are out, it saves me money in the long run, making the only way for me to be able to give the discount. Which I know I will not even make back even close to the amount of the discount that I am giving
How is it not about money?I had to find a way to make up the loss that I am taking by giving a discount. EVERY business does it. Most do it by putting items on sale to get you in the door hoping that you will take advantage of buying NON-sale items.
I don't have that ability, so this was the way that I chose to do it. It may be weird to you, but it is what works for me.
when both children are out, it saves me money in the long run, making the only way for me to be able to give the discount. Which I know I will not even make back even close to the amount of the discount that I am giving
daycare 11:31 AM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycarediva:
How is it not about money?
I was simply explaining why I wrote this policy. How is it not about money?
where am I losing money? by giving the discount. over $650.00 a year. It was my choice to give it and my choice to find a way to make up for it.
In this situation I was asking what to do about the fact that the DCP are completely ignoring my policy. Not about how much I should charge them or not....
Wigglesandgiggles 01:27 PM 09-14-2012
I could see having a policy like this for illness, but to get upset with the parents about this specific situation seems really odd to me. I can't really explain. It seems like you are going to tell them you are upset that they only sent one child with Mom. I assume dad still has to work, and so would need care for the other. In this situation, its a grey area, and I think you would look foolish by being upset with the parents over this.
Personally, I would just be happy to be free of one of them for a week....
Personally, I would just be happy to be free of one of them for a week....
Country Kids 01:38 PM 09-14-2012
OK, here goes my insight on this.
I can see having this policy as it one leaves for an appt., the other will be upset that they don't get to go. Then you have the parents coming back to get the one that was left. To much in and out for me personally.
The sickness part, the one that has to go to daycare is going to be upset that they have to go and *** gets to stay home with mom/dad. Will make a long day for the provider if the other child is upset.
Same thing for the vacation. Why can't the parent take both kids. It just doesn't make sense to me. Why only take one? You had two children, two need to go with the parent. Once again, the child that is left behind will be all out of sorts because they were left back. How fair is that! A week of an upset child. NO WAY!!!
I recently had this happen to me. The sibling went for a couple weeks to see relatives. The sibling that was here was just a handful the entire time! Once the sibling returned, no problems. The reason for the one to stay with me-I charge whether the child is here or not so the parents kept the one here with me. The other one goes to a different childcare.
I can see having this policy as it one leaves for an appt., the other will be upset that they don't get to go. Then you have the parents coming back to get the one that was left. To much in and out for me personally.
The sickness part, the one that has to go to daycare is going to be upset that they have to go and *** gets to stay home with mom/dad. Will make a long day for the provider if the other child is upset.
Same thing for the vacation. Why can't the parent take both kids. It just doesn't make sense to me. Why only take one? You had two children, two need to go with the parent. Once again, the child that is left behind will be all out of sorts because they were left back. How fair is that! A week of an upset child. NO WAY!!!
I recently had this happen to me. The sibling went for a couple weeks to see relatives. The sibling that was here was just a handful the entire time! Once the sibling returned, no problems. The reason for the one to stay with me-I charge whether the child is here or not so the parents kept the one here with me. The other one goes to a different childcare.
daycare 01:49 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Country Kids:
OK, here goes my insight on this.
I can see having this policy as it one leaves for an appt., the other will be upset that they don't get to go. Then you have the parents coming back to get the one that was left. To much in and out for me personally.
The sickness part, the one that has to go to daycare is going to be upset that they have to go and *** gets to stay home with mom/dad. Will make a long day for the provider if the other child is upset.
Same thing for the vacation. Why can't the parent take both kids. It just doesn't make sense to me. Why only take one? You had two children, two need to go with the parent. Once again, the child that is left behind will be all out of sorts because they were left back. How fair is that! A week of an upset child. NO WAY!!!
I recently had this happen to me. The sibling went for a couple weeks to see relatives. The sibling that was here was just a handful the entire time! Once the sibling returned, no problems. The reason for the one to stay with me-I charge whether the child is here or not so the parents kept the one here with me. The other one goes to a different childcare.
you know, I did have this happen before and it was super sad.OK, here goes my insight on this.
I can see having this policy as it one leaves for an appt., the other will be upset that they don't get to go. Then you have the parents coming back to get the one that was left. To much in and out for me personally.
The sickness part, the one that has to go to daycare is going to be upset that they have to go and *** gets to stay home with mom/dad. Will make a long day for the provider if the other child is upset.
Same thing for the vacation. Why can't the parent take both kids. It just doesn't make sense to me. Why only take one? You had two children, two need to go with the parent. Once again, the child that is left behind will be all out of sorts because they were left back. How fair is that! A week of an upset child. NO WAY!!!
I recently had this happen to me. The sibling went for a couple weeks to see relatives. The sibling that was here was just a handful the entire time! Once the sibling returned, no problems. The reason for the one to stay with me-I charge whether the child is here or not so the parents kept the one here with me. The other one goes to a different childcare.
I had a past DCM who would take her once child to the zoo for the day or some where special and not take the other. WHY?? well she said she can't handle both of them at the same time................WTH REALLY??
The other kid would sit at the window all day and scream cry for her sibling and mommy. Yelling I want to go to the zoo or wherever they went...
AND even more weird was the fact that she always took the same kid, not the other one.......As if the one was her favorite and she did NOTHING for the other...
I felt so bad for the one that stayed behind all of the time....
It would be different if it were a one time thing or a special birthday day, ok I get it....BUT to do it all the time was just mean.
BUT as we say, we can't tell parents how to parent..............
Blackcat31 01:50 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycare:
I was simply explaining why I wrote this policy.
where am I losing money? by giving the discount. over $650.00 a year. It was my choice to give it and my choice to find a way to make up for it.
In this situation I was asking what to do about the fact that the DCP are completely ignoring my policy. Not about how much I should charge them or not....
Here is an older thread where Cat Herder says she gives a sibling discount and why she has the policy where one child staying home means ALL siblings stay home. I was simply explaining why I wrote this policy.
where am I losing money? by giving the discount. over $650.00 a year. It was my choice to give it and my choice to find a way to make up for it.
In this situation I was asking what to do about the fact that the DCP are completely ignoring my policy. Not about how much I should charge them or not....
https://www.daycare.com/forum/showthread.php?t=40546
She also wrote the following in a totally different thread:
I do give a discount. 40% off second child. Pick your jaw off the floor..
Heres the catch... One pickup, one drop-off, per FAMILY, per day. If one is excluded for illness, both must stay out. They must attend or stay out, together. I keep the 48 hours MINIMUM exclusion if sent home midday policy as well. For both.
It is worth the loss of income for me to maintain order and minimize illness exposure to my group AND my family. Yep, I have quirks. (I also promised my neighbors I'd do everything in my power to minimize traffic)
My first employer had this policy after a mass outbreak. It was a long running theory of hers. It was proven correct IMHO. There are a few of us locally that still practice it.
NOW, know it is a very unpopular policy and I don't recommend newer providers try it for at least 5 years of service and word of mouth referrals. Just my opinion, but it is HARD to get parents to understand and requires LOTS of policing. They will ALL try to get out of it MANY times.
Granted when I give them the option of paying full price and attending as they wish, they decline.
Given her situation, she chose to offer a discount for additional children with the stipulation that ALL children stay home when one child is absent.
I cannot speak for her, but it obviously worked in her favor (and possibly the parents as well) but either way, I am sure this is where the initial idea of discounting for a sibling and BOTH staying home originated (atleast on this forum)
daycare 02:05 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
Here is an older thread where Cat Herder says she gives a sibling discount and why she has the policy where one child staying home means ALL siblings stay home.
https://www.daycare.com/forum/showthread.php?t=40546
She also wrote the following in a totally different thread:
I do give a discount. 40% off second child. Pick your jaw off the floor..
Heres the catch... One pickup, one drop-off, per FAMILY, per day. If one is excluded for illness, both must stay out. They must attend or stay out, together. I keep the 48 hours MINIMUM exclusion if sent home midday policy as well. For both.
It is worth the loss of income for me to maintain order and minimize illness exposure to my group AND my family. Yep, I have quirks. (I also promised my neighbors I'd do everything in my power to minimize traffic)
My first employer had this policy after a mass outbreak. It was a long running theory of hers. It was proven correct IMHO. There are a few of us locally that still practice it.
NOW, know it is a very unpopular policy and I don't recommend newer providers try it for at least 5 years of service and word of mouth referrals. Just my opinion, but it is HARD to get parents to understand and requires LOTS of policing. They will ALL try to get out of it MANY times.
Granted when I give them the option of paying full price and attending as they wish, they decline.
Given her situation, she chose to offer a discount for additional children with the stipulation that ALL children stay home when one child is absent.
I cannot speak for her, but it obviously worked in her favor (and possibly the parents as well) but either way, I am sure this is where the initial idea of discounting for a sibling and BOTH staying home originated (atleast on this forum)
actually, it didnt spark from here. BUt I did see her policy and agreed with it........Here is an older thread where Cat Herder says she gives a sibling discount and why she has the policy where one child staying home means ALL siblings stay home.
https://www.daycare.com/forum/showthread.php?t=40546
She also wrote the following in a totally different thread:
I do give a discount. 40% off second child. Pick your jaw off the floor..
Heres the catch... One pickup, one drop-off, per FAMILY, per day. If one is excluded for illness, both must stay out. They must attend or stay out, together. I keep the 48 hours MINIMUM exclusion if sent home midday policy as well. For both.
It is worth the loss of income for me to maintain order and minimize illness exposure to my group AND my family. Yep, I have quirks. (I also promised my neighbors I'd do everything in my power to minimize traffic)
My first employer had this policy after a mass outbreak. It was a long running theory of hers. It was proven correct IMHO. There are a few of us locally that still practice it.
NOW, know it is a very unpopular policy and I don't recommend newer providers try it for at least 5 years of service and word of mouth referrals. Just my opinion, but it is HARD to get parents to understand and requires LOTS of policing. They will ALL try to get out of it MANY times.
Granted when I give them the option of paying full price and attending as they wish, they decline.
Given her situation, she chose to offer a discount for additional children with the stipulation that ALL children stay home when one child is absent.
I cannot speak for her, but it obviously worked in her favor (and possibly the parents as well) but either way, I am sure this is where the initial idea of discounting for a sibling and BOTH staying home originated (atleast on this forum)
HOWEVER, mine comes form the business side of things. As most of you, this is what I do for a living, this is my career. I reinvest a ton of money back into my program and anyone who knows me knows this. When I do this, I don't get a discount, so why should the parents? I don't care if XYZ daycare down the street offers it with a different policy than mine. GREAT then go there. I have a lot of diffident policies than most daycares around, like I don't take government asst either. Never have, never will.
I know exactly to the penny what it cost to operate my business to make it successful year after year and when I give discounts like a sibling discount, the money comes from two places. My pocket or the curriculum. I think it is only fair that I be given the chance to make that money back, so that I can keep my program solid.
Because I am capped by licensing on how many kids I can have, it's not like I can just take on one more kid and make up for it that way.
Many of you may not agree with why I do it and that's ok. We can all agree to disagree!!
Blackcat31 02:16 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycare:
actually, it didnt spark from here. BUt I did see her policy and agreed with it........
HOWEVER, mine comes form the business side of things. As most of you, this is what I do for a living, this is my career. I reinvest a ton of money back into my program and anyone who knows me knows this. When I do this, I don't get a discount, so why should the parents? I don't care if XYZ daycare down the street offers it with a different policy than mine. GREAT then go there. I have a lot of diffident policies than most daycares around, like I don't take government asst either. Never have, never will.
I know exactly to the penny what it cost to operate my business to make it successful year after year and when I give discounts like a sibling discount, the money comes from two places. My pocket or the curriculum. I think it is only fair that I be given the chance to make that money back, so that I can keep my program solid.
Because I am capped by licensing on how many kids I can have, it's not like I can just take on one more kid and make up for it that way.
Many of you may not agree with why I do it and that's ok. We can all agree to disagree!!
Sorry, I was somehow under the impression that you did this to minimize the exposure to others in care or due to basically the same reasons Cat Herder did it. actually, it didnt spark from here. BUt I did see her policy and agreed with it........
HOWEVER, mine comes form the business side of things. As most of you, this is what I do for a living, this is my career. I reinvest a ton of money back into my program and anyone who knows me knows this. When I do this, I don't get a discount, so why should the parents? I don't care if XYZ daycare down the street offers it with a different policy than mine. GREAT then go there. I have a lot of diffident policies than most daycares around, like I don't take government asst either. Never have, never will.
I know exactly to the penny what it cost to operate my business to make it successful year after year and when I give discounts like a sibling discount, the money comes from two places. My pocket or the curriculum. I think it is only fair that I be given the chance to make that money back, so that I can keep my program solid.
Because I am capped by licensing on how many kids I can have, it's not like I can just take on one more kid and make up for it that way.
Many of you may not agree with why I do it and that's ok. We can all agree to disagree!!
Since that isn't the case, and I really don't mean to hi-jack your thread but I am confused now too as to why you have this policy then. You are correct in that we all do what works for us and we can all agree to disagree but I am asking because I am interested in why providers do what they do so that I am always able to see things from more than just my own perspective.
So with that said, if I were a parent interested in enrolling my TWO children
and have questions about your absent policy...what will you tell me so that I understand why you have this rule?
daycare 02:29 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
Sorry, I was somehow under the impression that you did this to minimize the exposure to others in care or due to basically the same reasons Cat Herder did it.
Since that isn't the case, and I really don't mean to hi-jack your thread but I am confused now too as to why you have this policy then. You are correct in that we all do what works for us and we can all agree to disagree but I am asking because I am interested in why providers do what they do so that I am always able to see things from more than just my own perspective.
So with that said, if I were a parent interested in enrolling my TWO children and have questions about your absent policy...what will you tell me so that I understand why you have this rule?
exactly how I have told you here... Because I want the best program possible and to do that it takes $$. While I would love to give everyone a discount, if I did, it would compromise my program. Of course, I don't mind taking money from my own pocket from time to time to see that the kids have a fun field trip, or what not, but I can't always jeopardize my income for the daycare, because I too have a family. Sorry, I was somehow under the impression that you did this to minimize the exposure to others in care or due to basically the same reasons Cat Herder did it.
Since that isn't the case, and I really don't mean to hi-jack your thread but I am confused now too as to why you have this policy then. You are correct in that we all do what works for us and we can all agree to disagree but I am asking because I am interested in why providers do what they do so that I am always able to see things from more than just my own perspective.
So with that said, if I were a parent interested in enrolling my TWO children
and have questions about your absent policy...what will you tell me so that I understand why you have this rule?I could just say NO, I won't do a sibling discount because it does affect the income available for all the overhead.(EX field trips, food, and so on) The discount I give does come out of my pocket most of the time and that is becuase I chose to. So I felt that it was only fair that I am given the chance to make up for it and that was the only way.
daycare 02:30 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycare:
exactly how I have told you here... Because I want the best program possible and to do that it takes $$. While I would love to give everyone a discount, if I did, it would compromise my program. Of course, I don't mind taking money from my own pocket from time to time to see that the kids have a fun field trip, or what not, but I can't always jeopardize my income for the daycare, because I too have a family.
I could just say NO, I won't do a sibling discount because it does affect the income available for all the overhead.(EX field trips, food, and so on) The discount I give does come out of my pocket most of the time and that is becuase I chose to. So I felt that it was only fair that I am given the chance to make up for it and that was the only way.
sorry its like saying.......we need $200.00 more to have a music program this year. But if we can't come up with the $200.00 then either one of two things will happen. exactly how I have told you here... Because I want the best program possible and to do that it takes $$. While I would love to give everyone a discount, if I did, it would compromise my program. Of course, I don't mind taking money from my own pocket from time to time to see that the kids have a fun field trip, or what not, but I can't always jeopardize my income for the daycare, because I too have a family.
I could just say NO, I won't do a sibling discount because it does affect the income available for all the overhead.(EX field trips, food, and so on) The discount I give does come out of my pocket most of the time and that is becuase I chose to. So I felt that it was only fair that I am given the chance to make up for it and that was the only way.
1. NO music program
2. It comes out of someones pocket.
sharlan 02:44 PM 09-14-2012
Personally, I disagree with what you are saying/doing, BUT, that is your policy and it's your right to handle it however you want.
I am getting the impression that you want both kids gone for the week, but the right to charge the full amount of their tuition.
I think you are so focused on them not adhering to your contract, that you're not paying attention to the bigger picture. You have one less child to care for (less food, less consumable curriculum, less stress).
I wouldn't make this big of an issue out of it. I had one family that other family members frequently took the middle child for a few days or a week at a time. I didn't care, I got paid regardless.
Since you are so upset, you need to bring it up to the parents and show them the contract and remind them that it's an all or nothing attendance.
I am getting the impression that you want both kids gone for the week, but the right to charge the full amount of their tuition.
I think you are so focused on them not adhering to your contract, that you're not paying attention to the bigger picture. You have one less child to care for (less food, less consumable curriculum, less stress).
I wouldn't make this big of an issue out of it. I had one family that other family members frequently took the middle child for a few days or a week at a time. I didn't care, I got paid regardless.
Since you are so upset, you need to bring it up to the parents and show them the contract and remind them that it's an all or nothing attendance.
daycare 02:56 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by sharlan:
Personally, I disagree with what you are saying/doing, BUT, that is your policy and it's your right to handle it however you want.
I am getting the impression that you want both kids gone for the week, but the right to charge the full amount of their tuition.
I think you are so focused on them not adhering to your contract, that you're not paying attention to the bigger picture. You have one less child to care for (less food, less consumable curriculum, less stress).
I wouldn't make this big of an issue out of it. I had one family that other family members frequently took the middle child for a few days or a week at a time. I didn't care, I got paid regardless.
Since you are so upset, you need to bring it up to the parents and show them the contract and remind them that it's an all or nothing attendance.
sorry, this thread took a different turn from my original question. Personally, I disagree with what you are saying/doing, BUT, that is your policy and it's your right to handle it however you want.
I am getting the impression that you want both kids gone for the week, but the right to charge the full amount of their tuition.
I think you are so focused on them not adhering to your contract, that you're not paying attention to the bigger picture. You have one less child to care for (less food, less consumable curriculum, less stress).
I wouldn't make this big of an issue out of it. I had one family that other family members frequently took the middle child for a few days or a week at a time. I didn't care, I got paid regardless.
Since you are so upset, you need to bring it up to the parents and show them the contract and remind them that it's an all or nothing attendance.
you are right and I am not upset about the money aspects of it. I am not greedy trust me.
Like I previously stated, that I was more upset by the fact that they basically didnt even ask me about it, they told me. If one of your DCP decided to just ignore one of your policies you would be upset too.
Blackcat31 03:06 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycare:
exactly how I have told you here... Because I want the best program possible and to do that it takes $$. While I would love to give everyone a discount, if I did, it would compromise my program. Of course, I don't mind taking money from my own pocket from time to time to see that the kids have a fun field trip, or what not, but I can't always jeopardize my income for the daycare, because I too have a family.
I could just say NO, I won't do a sibling discount because it does affect the income available for all the overhead.(EX field trips, food, and so on) The discount I give does come out of my pocket most of the time and that is becuase I chose to. So I felt that it was only fair that I am given the chance to make up for it and that was the only way.
exactly how I have told you here... Because I want the best program possible and to do that it takes $$. While I would love to give everyone a discount, if I did, it would compromise my program. Of course, I don't mind taking money from my own pocket from time to time to see that the kids have a fun field trip, or what not, but I can't always jeopardize my income for the daycare, because I too have a family.
I could just say NO, I won't do a sibling discount because it does affect the income available for all the overhead.(EX field trips, food, and so on) The discount I give does come out of my pocket most of the time and that is becuase I chose to. So I felt that it was only fair that I am given the chance to make up for it and that was the only way.
Originally Posted by daycare:
sorry its like saying.......we need $200.00 more to have a music program this year. But if we can't come up with the $200.00 then either one of two things will happen.
1. NO music program
2. It comes out of someones pocket.
I FULLY understand the whole re-investing back into your program theory but it still doesn't explain why if one kid stays home, the other one has to as well. sorry its like saying.......we need $200.00 more to have a music program this year. But if we can't come up with the $200.00 then either one of two things will happen.
1. NO music program
2. It comes out of someones pocket.
That child staying home does not net you more or less income compared to if they both came to daycare.
Please don't think I am giving you a hard time as we all have policies that simply work for us and that is that. I guess I am just asking for more clarification as to how this both sibs stay and go relates to money.
I can see how some providers have the policy that if one sib is sick they all stay home so that it minimizes exposure and spread (which is debatable to some) but I get that line of thinking, even if I don't agree with it.
I don't get how making both children stay home (when netting the same income regardless of income) relates at all to being better for re-investing or paying for your program.
It's Friday and I am not working with a full deck so I do apologize for being difficult
sharlan 03:17 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by daycare:
sorry, this thread took a different turn from my original question.
you are right and I am not upset about the money aspects of it. I am not greedy trust me.
Like I previously stated, that I was more upset by the fact that they basically didnt even ask me about it, they told me. If one of your DCP decided to just ignore one of your policies you would be upset too.
To be perfectly honest, with what I have faced over the past 7 years, there's not a whole lot that upsets me. I have vowed not to get upset over the little things. So far, it's working for me. I don't have all of the policies that others here have. It works for me. You have to do what works for you.sorry, this thread took a different turn from my original question.
you are right and I am not upset about the money aspects of it. I am not greedy trust me.
Like I previously stated, that I was more upset by the fact that they basically didnt even ask me about it, they told me. If one of your DCP decided to just ignore one of your policies you would be upset too.
DaisyMamma 03:24 PM 09-14-2012
I didn't read every post but I fully understand the situation.
This is the EXACT reason you have this policy. There is no reason for one kid to attend, he needs to go too, sorry.
It also sounds like they pay the same if they are there or not, as it should be. Its not your problem why one kid isn't going to be there, it's in the policies they signed. Simple as that.
Nicely explain to the parent why you have the policy, mentioning the $650, and that she is asking to break the policy.
This is the EXACT reason you have this policy. There is no reason for one kid to attend, he needs to go too, sorry.
It also sounds like they pay the same if they are there or not, as it should be. Its not your problem why one kid isn't going to be there, it's in the policies they signed. Simple as that.
Nicely explain to the parent why you have the policy, mentioning the $650, and that she is asking to break the policy.
Country Kids 03:24 PM 09-14-2012
I think I understand DC!
Your policy states siblings in care together or need to be out of childcare together.
This family TELLS you, not ask that only one child will be here next week. Violation of your policy. Would be like telling you they won't be paying you till child returns as they aren't in care instead of on the day its due.
So, they are still benefitting from the discount but both kids aren't there or gone.
I totally get the policy thing! Maybe its time to make an ammendment and just get rid of it. Everyone pays full price per child no matter if they are there or not.
Now when parents pick up have a copy of your policy and show them where they signed and how they have to take both children with them next week. Remember if you break it for one you need to do it for everyone!
Your policy states siblings in care together or need to be out of childcare together.
This family TELLS you, not ask that only one child will be here next week. Violation of your policy. Would be like telling you they won't be paying you till child returns as they aren't in care instead of on the day its due.
So, they are still benefitting from the discount but both kids aren't there or gone.
I totally get the policy thing! Maybe its time to make an ammendment and just get rid of it. Everyone pays full price per child no matter if they are there or not.
Now when parents pick up have a copy of your policy and show them where they signed and how they have to take both children with them next week. Remember if you break it for one you need to do it for everyone!
daycarediva 03:33 PM 09-14-2012
The way I see it, is you are getting a week off, paid with one kid. If that is $100, you are 650-100=550 out of pocket for the discount.
I *think* I understand that your ONLY concern is the violation of policy. I would offer her this solution. She can either eliminate the discount, or stick to your policy. If you are willing to do that, I would bet she takes both kids on vacation.
I *think* I understand that your ONLY concern is the violation of policy. I would offer her this solution. She can either eliminate the discount, or stick to your policy. If you are willing to do that, I would bet she takes both kids on vacation.
momma2girls 06:07 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Country Kids:
OK, here goes my insight on this.
I can see having this policy as it one leaves for an appt., the other will be upset that they don't get to go. Then you have the parents coming back to get the one that was left. To much in and out for me personally.
The sickness part, the one that has to go to daycare is going to be upset that they have to go and *** gets to stay home with mom/dad. Will make a long day for the provider if the other child is upset.
Same thing for the vacation. Why can't the parent take both kids. It just doesn't make sense to me. Why only take one? You had two children, two need to go with the parent. Once again, the child that is left behind will be all out of sorts because they were left back. How fair is that! A week of an upset child.
I had this similar thing happen to me. I had to call a parent to come and pick up a child that was sick. I got the other sister who is 2 ready to go also. The mom came in and told me, well she is staying. I told her "I don't think so, she will see you take her other child, and throw a fit." She took her, but she didn't want to. Then the next day, guess who shows up at my door, screaming, because the brother was home sick and so was Mom. I immediately placed this in a newsletter and will be in the next contract.
This also happened to 3 other daycare friends!!
I recently had this happen to me. The sibling went for a couple weeks to see relatives. The sibling that was here was just a handful the entire time! Once the sibling returned, no problems. The reason for the one to stay with me-I charge whether the child is here or not so the parents kept the one here with me. The other one goes to a different childcare.
OK, here goes my insight on this.
I can see having this policy as it one leaves for an appt., the other will be upset that they don't get to go. Then you have the parents coming back to get the one that was left. To much in and out for me personally.
The sickness part, the one that has to go to daycare is going to be upset that they have to go and *** gets to stay home with mom/dad. Will make a long day for the provider if the other child is upset.
Same thing for the vacation. Why can't the parent take both kids. It just doesn't make sense to me. Why only take one? You had two children, two need to go with the parent. Once again, the child that is left behind will be all out of sorts because they were left back. How fair is that! A week of an upset child.
I had this similar thing happen to me. I had to call a parent to come and pick up a child that was sick. I got the other sister who is 2 ready to go also. The mom came in and told me, well she is staying. I told her "I don't think so, she will see you take her other child, and throw a fit." She took her, but she didn't want to. Then the next day, guess who shows up at my door, screaming, because the brother was home sick and so was Mom. I immediately placed this in a newsletter and will be in the next contract.
This also happened to 3 other daycare friends!!
I recently had this happen to me. The sibling went for a couple weeks to see relatives. The sibling that was here was just a handful the entire time! Once the sibling returned, no problems. The reason for the one to stay with me-I charge whether the child is here or not so the parents kept the one here with me. The other one goes to a different childcare.
I had this similar thing happen to me. I had to call a parent to come and pick up a child that was sick. I got the other sister who is 2 ready to go also. The mom came in and told me, well she is staying. I told her "I don't think so, she will see you take her other child, and throw a fit." She took her, but she didn't want to. Then the next day, guess who shows up at my door, screaming, because the brother was home sick and so was Mom. I immediately placed this in a newsletter and will be in the next contract.
This also happened to 3 other daycare friends!!
daycare 06:37 PM 09-14-2012
Originally Posted by Country Kids:
I think I understand DC!
Your policy states siblings in care together or need to be out of childcare together.
This family TELLS you, not ask that only one child will be here next week. Violation of your policy. Would be like telling you they won't be paying you till child returns as they aren't in care instead of on the day its due.
So, they are still benefitting from the discount but both kids aren't there or gone.
I totally get the policy thing! Maybe its time to make an ammendment and just get rid of it. Everyone pays full price per child no matter if they are there or not.
Now when parents pick up have a copy of your policy and show them where they signed and how they have to take both children with them next week. Remember if you break it for one you need to do it for everyone!
heeeeyyyy does that mean my English is getting better? hahahahahI think I understand DC!
Your policy states siblings in care together or need to be out of childcare together.
This family TELLS you, not ask that only one child will be here next week. Violation of your policy. Would be like telling you they won't be paying you till child returns as they aren't in care instead of on the day its due.
So, they are still benefitting from the discount but both kids aren't there or gone.
I totally get the policy thing! Maybe its time to make an ammendment and just get rid of it. Everyone pays full price per child no matter if they are there or not.
Now when parents pick up have a copy of your policy and show them where they signed and how they have to take both children with them next week. Remember if you break it for one you need to do it for everyone!
my friends tease me....they say OMG I understood what you are talking about....We finally get it...................
Thanks for your support.... I told the DCM at pick up that I would appreciate it from now on that if they needed something to talk to me about it. SHE knew the policy very well. We had just talked about it two weeks ago. I told her that I would allow for the policy to slide this time and that since it did not seem to really work out for them to keep the kids out together, that we should just do away with the policy all together.
All of a sudden the other DCK can now go on the vacation too. ???????
I am beating my head on the wall right now....lol
thanks ladies for all of your opinions and advice.