Daycare.com Forum
Daycare Center and Family Home Forum>Is It Rude To Post A Payment Reminder on My Door?
Happy Hearts 10:36 AM 07-25-2013
Reminder
Payments are due on the Friday
Before the next week of care
As of today, late fees of
$10 per calendar day
Will be charged.
Your child will not be taken into care
Until all tuition and late fees are paid
In full
Thank you for not making me have to ask to be paid
Payments are due on the Friday
Before the next week of care
As of today, late fees of
$10 per calendar day
Will be charged.
Your child will not be taken into care
Until all tuition and late fees are paid
In full
Thank you for not making me have to ask to be paid
This is what I want to post on my door. It's definitely to the point, but it is rude?
They have already signed the contract, so they know the payment dates and late fees. But, I have never enforced.
I am so ready to quit this business.
crazydaycarelady 10:45 AM 07-25-2013
Not any more rude than not being paid on time!
e.j. 10:46 AM 07-25-2013
I don't think it's rude, especially if your dc parents have been forgetting to pay you. I think it's a helpful reminder of your new policy. If I were a dc parent, I'd appreciate the reminder since it would help me avoid late fees.
MrsSteinel'sHouse 10:46 AM 07-25-2013
I don't think it is rude. I tell all my parents upfront that I hate to deal with the money aspect and that I expect them to hand me a check weekly without me having to ask. 
All of my parents are really good about paying me. But, you need to enforce your policies. I think the sign is a good way to start showing them your serious.
All of my parents are really good about paying me. But, you need to enforce your policies. I think the sign is a good way to start showing them your serious.
Play Care 10:46 AM 07-25-2013
Originally Posted by Happy Hearts:
This is what I want to post on my door. It's definitely to the point, but it is rude?
They have already signed the contract, so they know the payment dates and late fees. But, I have never enforced.
I am so ready to quit this business.
I don't know if I would go into such detail on the sign. I have put a sign (bright red) saying "tuition payments Due today by 5:00pm" then I've verbally reminded as well. When I find myself getting burnt out, it's usually because I need to enforce policy. Do it, and you will feel much better.Reminder
Payments are due on the Friday
Before the next week of care
As of today, late fees of
$10 per calendar day
Will be charged.
Your child will not be taken into care
Until all tuition and late fees are paid
In full
Thank you for not making me have to ask to be paid
Payments are due on the Friday
Before the next week of care
As of today, late fees of
$10 per calendar day
Will be charged.
Your child will not be taken into care
Until all tuition and late fees are paid
In full
Thank you for not making me have to ask to be paid
This is what I want to post on my door. It's definitely to the point, but it is rude?
They have already signed the contract, so they know the payment dates and late fees. But, I have never enforced.
I am so ready to quit this business.
melilley 10:54 AM 07-25-2013
I don't think it is rude! I did something similar, when I went on vacation. I have one paid week per year, in July, and I make sure all the parents know this at interview. Well I have some families contracted to pay on Fridays before the next week of care, and some on Mondays and I wanted to make sure they "remembered" that it's paid so I put a not on the door that they have to pay either Friday at pick up or Monday by 9 a.m. Every single one of the parents paid on Friday, even my Monday families! Not one parent said a word to me. Well one mom did read the note when she picked up and paid, as she came in and I saw her read it, then when she left my son and I were standing at the door waving bye to them and the mom walked back up towards the door and read it like it was the first time reading it and asked her husband if it was for the vacation week-like she didn't know and I couldn't hear her..duh.. 
Sometimes a little "reminder" does wonders...
Plus we get so busy that sometimes it's hard to remind every parent-even though we shouldn't have to! It's just easier to put up a note!
Sometimes a little "reminder" does wonders...
Plus we get so busy that sometimes it's hard to remind every parent-even though we shouldn't have to! It's just easier to put up a note!
EAP 11:33 AM 07-25-2013
I don't think its rude at all, I am also very done with having to remind folks, they don't need to send me reminders to be ready to care for their child. With my issue clients I have had to send text messages and put out a very bright "payment" envelope at the sign in sheet. I am so over chasing people so I don't have to charge them late fees, which they then freak out about.
EntropyControlSpecialist 11:35 AM 07-25-2013
I did this before I used childcarepay.com. I'm one who gets somewhat caught up in pondering if things are rude sometimes since I KNOW I am pretty oblivious to that sort of thing, but I never thought twice about doing that.
They signed a contract saying they'd pay. You're offering them a reminder so they don't face a penalty. I think it's NICE.
They signed a contract saying they'd pay. You're offering them a reminder so they don't face a penalty. I think it's NICE.
Blackcat31 11:49 AM 07-25-2013
Years ago, I posted ALL daycare kid's last names on one sheet of paper on the bulletin board.
Each name had 4 boxes next to it (one for each week of the month).
Each time a family paid, I put a check in the box.
DEFINITELY helped parents pay on time ....I suppose they didn't want it to be common knowledge...I don't know but I do know it works.
I don't do it anymore though as I have come a long way with family relationship and payment expectations.
Each name had 4 boxes next to it (one for each week of the month).
Each time a family paid, I put a check in the box.
DEFINITELY helped parents pay on time ....I suppose they didn't want it to be common knowledge...I don't know but I do know it works.
I don't do it anymore though as I have come a long way with family relationship and payment expectations.
daycare 12:13 PM 07-25-2013
I have a chalk board in my foyer that will list the reminders for the week....
It always goes up on Monday and stays up until the end of the week. My payments are due monthly and always the same rate, so they know how much they will be paying every month no need to guess.
So on my chalk board the monday after the payments are due, I will put on the chalk board All payments are now considered late, please do not forget to include a $50.00 LATE FEE. Payments in full only No pay NO stay...
It always goes up on Monday and stays up until the end of the week. My payments are due monthly and always the same rate, so they know how much they will be paying every month no need to guess.
So on my chalk board the monday after the payments are due, I will put on the chalk board All payments are now considered late, please do not forget to include a $50.00 LATE FEE. Payments in full only No pay NO stay...
BABYLUVER21 12:32 PM 07-25-2013
Originally Posted by Happy Hearts:
This is what I want to post on my door. It's definitely to the point, but it is rude?
They have already signed the contract, so they know the payment dates and late fees. But, I have never enforced.
I am so ready to quit this business.
I have seen this on many doors and never found it rude. In fact, as a parent who now pays daycare, it's helped me since I forget EVERYTHING, remember to stop by bank on Fridays to get $$ for my provider Reminder
Payments are due on the Friday
Before the next week of care
As of today, late fees of
$10 per calendar day
Will be charged.
Your child will not be taken into care
Until all tuition and late fees are paid
In full
Thank you for not making me have to ask to be paid
Payments are due on the Friday
Before the next week of care
As of today, late fees of
$10 per calendar day
Will be charged.
Your child will not be taken into care
Until all tuition and late fees are paid
In full
Thank you for not making me have to ask to be paid
This is what I want to post on my door. It's definitely to the point, but it is rude?
They have already signed the contract, so they know the payment dates and late fees. But, I have never enforced.
I am so ready to quit this business.
She's worth every penny and I NEVER want to forget but I have no brains lately. lol
Moppetland 02:49 PM 07-25-2013
I don't think it's rude either.
I have been to day care centers that have the notes on their door or somewhere near the front with messages about payment due dates and late fee amounts when not paid on time.
I had this problem with several parents, and it irritated me when they would come in and don't give me my pay. I had to clear my throat and ask for my money. I have no shame. For what? It's what is owed to me. I provide a service to you and expect payment.
I would always get "I forgot the check. I'll bring it this evening". Then they'll send someone else to pick up their child.
I started telling them that it's funny how you forgot that you were to pay me, but you sure didn't forget to bring your child today. I also ask them how would they like it if they went to work, expecting a pay check and the employer told them "Sorry. We can't pay you today". They wouldn't like it because they have worked for it.
I would rather for parents to be honest with me if they are having trouble paying that day, than to think I'm boo boo the fool.
So, again. To alleviate YOUR stress about how you're going to pay your bills if the parents don't pay, have no shame. You have a right to request your payment, even though you shouldn't have to. Child care should be up there with rent/mortgage. If they don't have child care, they can't work to pay their mortgage.
I have been to day care centers that have the notes on their door or somewhere near the front with messages about payment due dates and late fee amounts when not paid on time.
I had this problem with several parents, and it irritated me when they would come in and don't give me my pay. I had to clear my throat and ask for my money. I have no shame. For what? It's what is owed to me. I provide a service to you and expect payment.
I would always get "I forgot the check. I'll bring it this evening". Then they'll send someone else to pick up their child.
I started telling them that it's funny how you forgot that you were to pay me, but you sure didn't forget to bring your child today. I also ask them how would they like it if they went to work, expecting a pay check and the employer told them "Sorry. We can't pay you today". They wouldn't like it because they have worked for it.
I would rather for parents to be honest with me if they are having trouble paying that day, than to think I'm boo boo the fool.
So, again. To alleviate YOUR stress about how you're going to pay your bills if the parents don't pay, have no shame. You have a right to request your payment, even though you shouldn't have to. Child care should be up there with rent/mortgage. If they don't have child care, they can't work to pay their mortgage.
daycare 03:03 PM 07-25-2013
Originally Posted by Moppetland:
I don't think it's rude either.
I have been to day care centers that have the notes on their door or somewhere near the front with messages about payment due dates and late fee amounts when not paid on time.
I had this problem with several parents, and it irritated me when they would come in and don't give me my pay. I had to clear my throat and ask for my money. I have no shame. For what? It's what is owed to me. I provide a service to you and expect payment.
I would always get "I forgot the check. I'll bring it this evening". Then they'll send someone else to pick up their child.
I started telling them that it's funny how you forgot that you were to pay me, but you sure didn't forget to bring your child today. I also ask them how would they like it if they went to work, expecting a pay check and the employer told them "Sorry. We can't pay you today". They wouldn't like it because they have worked for it.
I would rather for parents to be honest with me if they are having trouble paying that day, than to think I'm boo boo the fool.
So, again. To alleviate YOUR stress about how you're going to pay your bills if the parents don't pay, have no shame. You have a right to request your payment, even though you shouldn't have to. Child care should be up there with rent/mortgage. If they don't have child care, they can't work to pay their mortgage.
I have in my PHB a statement that reads...I don't think it's rude either.
I have been to day care centers that have the notes on their door or somewhere near the front with messages about payment due dates and late fee amounts when not paid on time.
I had this problem with several parents, and it irritated me when they would come in and don't give me my pay. I had to clear my throat and ask for my money. I have no shame. For what? It's what is owed to me. I provide a service to you and expect payment.
I would always get "I forgot the check. I'll bring it this evening". Then they'll send someone else to pick up their child.
I started telling them that it's funny how you forgot that you were to pay me, but you sure didn't forget to bring your child today. I also ask them how would they like it if they went to work, expecting a pay check and the employer told them "Sorry. We can't pay you today". They wouldn't like it because they have worked for it.
I would rather for parents to be honest with me if they are having trouble paying that day, than to think I'm boo boo the fool.
So, again. To alleviate YOUR stress about how you're going to pay your bills if the parents don't pay, have no shame. You have a right to request your payment, even though you shouldn't have to. Child care should be up there with rent/mortgage. If they don't have child care, they can't work to pay their mortgage.
You expect me to be here on time for you so that you can go to work each day and I expect for you to make on time payments.....
something like that......lol
Happy Hearts 03:14 PM 07-25-2013
I'm the OP
So a dcm sees the note on the door (I changed it to Reminder: Payments are due by Friday) and she asked if that note was for her.
I told her that only one of my parents pays on time and it's very frustrating. She then said she usually pays on time and only didn't twice. I didn't want to argue with her, so I stayed silent.
Her daughter doesn't come tomorrow, so we'll see if she comes to pay me. If not, I'm terming. I am so done with this game.
So a dcm sees the note on the door (I changed it to Reminder: Payments are due by Friday) and she asked if that note was for her.
I told her that only one of my parents pays on time and it's very frustrating. She then said she usually pays on time and only didn't twice. I didn't want to argue with her, so I stayed silent.
Her daughter doesn't come tomorrow, so we'll see if she comes to pay me. If not, I'm terming. I am so done with this game.
daycare 03:18 PM 07-25-2013
Originally Posted by Happy Hearts:
I'm the OP
So a dcm sees the note on the door (I changed it to Reminder: Payments are due by Friday) and she asked if that note was for her.
I told her that only one of my parents pays on time and it's very frustrating. She then said she usually pays on time and only didn't twice. I didn't want to argue with her, so I stayed silent.
Her daughter doesn't come tomorrow, so we'll see if she comes to pay me. If not, I'm terming. I am so done with this game.
lol.....um someone feels guilty....I'm the OP
So a dcm sees the note on the door (I changed it to Reminder: Payments are due by Friday) and she asked if that note was for her.
I told her that only one of my parents pays on time and it's very frustrating. She then said she usually pays on time and only didn't twice. I didn't want to argue with her, so I stayed silent.
Her daughter doesn't come tomorrow, so we'll see if she comes to pay me. If not, I'm terming. I am so done with this game.
stand your ground...... you are doing the right thing.....I have a dcm that always wants to pay late. sometimes I say yes, but will say....Kattie, this is starting to become a habit. I know you have money issues, but please keep in mind that I can't keep doing this for you. She has not done it in about 8 months....Id rather them talk with me about it and try to make arrangements than just try to avoid it
EntropyControlSpecialist 03:34 PM 07-25-2013
Originally Posted by Happy Hearts:
I'm the OP
So a dcm sees the note on the door (I changed it to Reminder: Payments are due by Friday) and she asked if that note was for her.
I told her that only one of my parents pays on time and it's very frustrating. She then said she usually pays on time and only didn't twice. I didn't want to argue with her, so I stayed silent.
Her daughter doesn't come tomorrow, so we'll see if she comes to pay me. If not, I'm terming. I am so done with this game.
Self induced guilt. Love it. Now, pay your provider who works her bottom off. I'm the OP
So a dcm sees the note on the door (I changed it to Reminder: Payments are due by Friday) and she asked if that note was for her.
I told her that only one of my parents pays on time and it's very frustrating. She then said she usually pays on time and only didn't twice. I didn't want to argue with her, so I stayed silent.
Her daughter doesn't come tomorrow, so we'll see if she comes to pay me. If not, I'm terming. I am so done with this game.
Crazy8 03:35 PM 07-25-2013
Originally Posted by Happy Hearts:
I'm the OP
So a dcm sees the note on the door (I changed it to Reminder: Payments are due by Friday) and she asked if that note was for her.
I told her that only one of my parents pays on time and it's very frustrating. She then said she usually pays on time and only didn't twice. I didn't want to argue with her, so I stayed silent.
Her daughter doesn't come tomorrow, so we'll see if she comes to pay me. If not, I'm terming. I am so done with this game.
I had a parent say the same thing one time... I was not going to argue with her about how many times she forgot payment but told her there was one week right before the notice went up that only ONE parent out of FIVE paid on time. She honestly thought she was that one parent. Yeah right. People are clueless sometimes!I'm the OP
So a dcm sees the note on the door (I changed it to Reminder: Payments are due by Friday) and she asked if that note was for her.
I told her that only one of my parents pays on time and it's very frustrating. She then said she usually pays on time and only didn't twice. I didn't want to argue with her, so I stayed silent.
Her daughter doesn't come tomorrow, so we'll see if she comes to pay me. If not, I'm terming. I am so done with this game.
Familycare71 06:16 AM 07-26-2013
I agree with PP... When I start feeling burnt out it is usually because I have let too many things slide. That note on the door is a great start to enforcing your policies!
Childminder 06:57 AM 07-26-2013
I just contacted a collection agency to go after a former parent that I termed that owes me $$$.
They also offer a service that if a parent does not pay on time they will send out a notice that they are in arrears and that the matter needs to be addressed. Very professional and businesslike, takes the pressure off of you and all you have to do is pass the parent info over the internet to this company.
I decided to try it and posted a notice that all of my late payers shall from this date forward will be automatically be turned over to collections.
They also offer a service that if a parent does not pay on time they will send out a notice that they are in arrears and that the matter needs to be addressed. Very professional and businesslike, takes the pressure off of you and all you have to do is pass the parent info over the internet to this company.
I decided to try it and posted a notice that all of my late payers shall from this date forward will be automatically be turned over to collections.
liliw80 11:54 AM 07-26-2013
Originally Posted by Play Care:
When I find myself getting burnt out, it's usually because I need to enforce policy. Do it, and you will feel much better.
I love this bit of advice! It can be pretty easy to get burnt out in this line of work, but kids are cute and easier to forgive when mistakes or issues occur. Parents can really burn you out when they disrespect policy over and over again. Sometimes I want to post a sign on my door to remind them that this is my job! Although I do love it, I do NOT only work for the fun of it! Pay me! When I find myself getting burnt out, it's usually because I need to enforce policy. Do it, and you will feel much better.
Starburst 12:24 PM 07-26-2013
As long as you don't single out a particular family I don't think its rude. My old boss used to post note like that on the door when it got close to vacation times. She would also use those notes as reminders that payments are due before the holidays/vacations and that certain holidays off counted as paid holidays (such as labor day). You can also just keep it on a bulletin board as a constant reminder.
DaisyMamma 07:51 AM 07-29-2013
Originally Posted by crazydaycarelady:
Not any more rude than not being paid on time!
Exactly correct.Not any more rude than not being paid on time!
Play Care 08:33 AM 07-29-2013
I used to work for an agency that would never address issues with the individuals as they came up. We received many passive aggressive memos that were really directed at one particular employee. I can't even begin to describe how toxic the environment was and how low morale became.
I don't see anything wrong with a general bright sign say "Tuition Payments Due Today by 5:00PM" I've done that. But I've often thought that day care providers hide behind signs and memos when a face to face conversation would serve them better. I know I've done it until I remembered how awful that work situation was. Part of running my own business means being able to have uncomfortable conversations because "business is business and sometimes it's ugly" I don't want my "good" clients to be bogged down, or lose morale because of these types of "group floggings" when my ire needs to be directed at the cause. After all, addressing the actual cause of the issue usually clears it up. Throwing out general reminders in hopes things will change is often a useless endeavor.
And if you have been putting up signs and memos with stern reminders, I also hope you are taking the time to write a quick note to your "good" clients thanking them for their business, following policy, etc.
Just something to think about
I don't see anything wrong with a general bright sign say "Tuition Payments Due Today by 5:00PM" I've done that. But I've often thought that day care providers hide behind signs and memos when a face to face conversation would serve them better. I know I've done it until I remembered how awful that work situation was. Part of running my own business means being able to have uncomfortable conversations because "business is business and sometimes it's ugly"
I don't want my "good" clients to be bogged down, or lose morale because of these types of "group floggings" when my ire needs to be directed at the cause. After all, addressing the actual cause of the issue usually clears it up. Throwing out general reminders in hopes things will change is often a useless endeavor. And if you have been putting up signs and memos with stern reminders, I also hope you are taking the time to write a quick note to your "good" clients thanking them for their business, following policy, etc.
Just something to think about
originalkat 02:40 PM 07-29-2013
I post a sign on the 1st and the 15th the says, "TUITION IS DUE TODAY. THANKS!"
I dont think your sign is rude, but it might be on the long side for someone reading at the door. I usually send home more wordy notes/reminders with each child. Instead, I might put on the door a sign that reads,
I dont think your sign is rude, but it might be on the long side for someone reading at the door. I usually send home more wordy notes/reminders with each child. Instead, I might put on the door a sign that reads,
"PAYMENTS ARE DUE ON FRIDAY.
$10 PER DAY LATE FEES APPLY.THANKS!"
$10 PER DAY LATE FEES APPLY.THANKS!"
Live and Learn 05:51 PM 07-29-2013
Originally Posted by Play Care:
I used to work for an agency that would never address issues with the individuals as they came up. We received many passive aggressive memos that were really directed at one particular employee. I can't even begin to describe how toxic the environment was and how low morale became.
I don't see anything wrong with a general bright sign say "Tuition Payments Due Today by 5:00PM" I've done that. But I've often thought that day care providers hide behind signs and memos when a face to face conversation would serve them better. I know I've done it until I remembered how awful that work situation was. Part of running my own business means being able to have uncomfortable conversations because "business is business and sometimes it's ugly" I don't want my "good" clients to be bogged down, or lose morale because of these types of "group floggings" when my ire needs to be directed at the cause. After all, addressing the actual cause of the issue usually clears it up. Throwing out general reminders in hopes things will change is often a useless endeavor.
And if you have been putting up signs and memos with stern reminders, I also hope you are taking the time to write a quick note to your "good" clients thanking them for their business, following policy, etc.
Just something to think about
lI used to work for an agency that would never address issues with the individuals as they came up. We received many passive aggressive memos that were really directed at one particular employee. I can't even begin to describe how toxic the environment was and how low morale became.
I don't see anything wrong with a general bright sign say "Tuition Payments Due Today by 5:00PM" I've done that. But I've often thought that day care providers hide behind signs and memos when a face to face conversation would serve them better. I know I've done it until I remembered how awful that work situation was. Part of running my own business means being able to have uncomfortable conversations because "business is business and sometimes it's ugly"
I don't want my "good" clients to be bogged down, or lose morale because of these types of "group floggings" when my ire needs to be directed at the cause. After all, addressing the actual cause of the issue usually clears it up. Throwing out general reminders in hopes things will change is often a useless endeavor. And if you have been putting up signs and memos with stern reminders, I also hope you are taking the time to write a quick note to your "good" clients thanking them for their business, following policy, etc.
Just something to think about
This exactly!
TheGoodLife 08:05 PM 07-29-2013
Originally Posted by Happy Hearts:
I'm the OP
So a dcm sees the note on the door (I changed it to Reminder: Payments are due by Friday) and she asked if that note was for her.
I told her that only one of my parents pays on time and it's very frustrating. She then said she usually pays on time and only didn't twice. I didn't want to argue with her, so I stayed silent.
Her daughter doesn't come tomorrow, so we'll see if she comes to pay me. If not, I'm terming. I am so done with this game.
I'm the OP
So a dcm sees the note on the door (I changed it to Reminder: Payments are due by Friday) and she asked if that note was for her.
I told her that only one of my parents pays on time and it's very frustrating. She then said she usually pays on time and only didn't twice. I didn't want to argue with her, so I stayed silent.
Her daughter doesn't come tomorrow, so we'll see if she comes to pay me. If not, I'm terming. I am so done with this game.
Did she pay on time?!
Happy Hearts 08:08 PM 07-29-2013
Yes, they ALL paid on time!
But, I gave them all notice today. I am done with all of this! Closing down on August 9th.
But, I gave them all notice today. I am done with all of this! Closing down on August 9th.
TheGoodLife 08:15 PM 07-29-2013
Originally Posted by Happy Hearts:
Yes, they ALL paid on time!
But, I gave them all notice today. I am done with all of this! Closing down on August 9th.
Just saw your other post. Good luck with whatever you decide to do next! Yes, they ALL paid on time!
But, I gave them all notice today. I am done with all of this! Closing down on August 9th.
Familycare71 09:19 PM 07-29-2013
Originally Posted by Happy Hearts:
Yes, they ALL paid on time!
But, I gave them all notice today. I am done with all of this! Closing down on August 9th.
Definitely isn't for everyone Yes, they ALL paid on time!
But, I gave them all notice today. I am done with all of this! Closing down on August 9th.
. Best of luck to whatever the next chapter is!!
clep 05:01 PM 07-30-2013
I don't remind parents or babysit them to get payment. I have the last month's deposit already for every family. I obtain that the second month of care after signing the permanent contract once the 30 day trial is done. They don't forget their mortgage or utilities, nor do they forget about me. I have had some try to pay late or do not make it a mental priority.
If they don't pay me on time I charge the late fee. I do that for two times and the third time they are termed immediately. I apply the prepayment to the month of care and use the month to find a new family off of my wait list.
A couple of examples like that and all was well. I don't have parents pay late and I don't remind.
If they don't pay me on time I charge the late fee. I do that for two times and the third time they are termed immediately. I apply the prepayment to the month of care and use the month to find a new family off of my wait list.
A couple of examples like that and all was well. I don't have parents pay late and I don't remind.