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Daycare Center and Family Home Forum>Parents Asking Very Personal Information
Unregistered 04:16 PM 02-18-2014
Hello,

I am a Family daycare owner, and previously worked years in a daycare.

Until now, all families were very trustful and we got along happily. But recently I had a parent wanted to enroll their child, who ask to have hard copy of
-My background/fingerprint result/information
-Medical background
-Information I had to provide to be licensed (which include my SSN and all)
All of this about me but also my worker and husband.

Of course I understand the parent want to make sure he can trust all of us . But isn't that too personal to share?

If you had a similar situation would you share theses or how should I handle this situation....?

Thank you so much for your help!
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Meeko 04:29 PM 02-18-2014
Don't EVER give out your personal information.

tell her that licensing has done all that for her and you couldn't be licensed without it. For security purposes you don't give out that information.

And you MEDICAL records??

I personally wouldn't even consider taking someone like that.
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butterfly 04:31 PM 02-18-2014
Originally Posted by Meeko:
Don't EVER give out your personal information.

tell her that licensing has done all that for her and you couldn't be licensed without it. For security purposes you don't give out that information.

And you MEDICAL records??

I personally wouldn't even consider taking someone like that.

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craftymissbeth 04:34 PM 02-18-2014
Nope. They sound like trouble to me. I hope you didn't the them any of that especially not your worker or dh's info! If it was good enough for licensing then why do they need it also?
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Blackcat31 04:34 PM 02-18-2014
Originally Posted by Meeko:
Don't EVER give out your personal information.

tell her that licensing has done all that for her and you couldn't be licensed without it. For security purposes you don't give out that information.

And you MEDICAL records??

I personally wouldn't even consider taking someone like that.
What she said ^^^^^^^^
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DanielleS 04:36 PM 02-18-2014
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Hello,

I am a Family daycare owner, and previously worked years in a daycare.

Until now, all families were very trustful and we got along happily. But recently I had a parent wanted to enroll their child, who ask to have hard copy of
-My background/fingerprint result/information
-Medical background
-Information I had to provide to be licensed (which include my SSN and all)
All of this about me but also my worker and husband.

Of course I understand the parent want to make sure he can trust all of us . But isn't that too personal to share?

If you had a similar situation would you share theses or how should I handle this situation....?



Dang ya'll move fast. Ditto what everyone said!
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Heidi 04:52 PM 02-18-2014
Originally Posted by Meeko:
Don't EVER give out your personal information.

tell her that licensing has done all that for her and you couldn't be licensed without it. For security purposes you don't give out that information.

And you MEDICAL records??

I personally wouldn't even consider taking someone like that.

Reply
MarinaVanessa 05:19 PM 02-18-2014
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Hello,

I am a Family daycare owner, and previously worked years in a daycare.

Until now, all families were very trustful and we got along happily. But recently I had a parent wanted to enroll their child, who ask to have hard copy of
-My background/fingerprint result/information
-Medical background
-Information I had to provide to be licensed (which include my SSN and all)
All of this about me but also my worker and husband.

Of course I understand the parent want to make sure he can trust all of us . But isn't that too personal to share?

If you had a similar situation would you share theses or how should I handle this situation....?

Thank you so much for your help!
I'm going to be the odd one out here but in my neck of the woods SOME of this is standard stuff to ask ... sort of.

Asking someone to see their background information is something that is done by about half of my interviews where I live. I wouldn't give them my background check but I'd show them my background clearance. It's from the DOJ and cross referenced with our state's child abuse index but it's just a piece of paper that says that we're cleared. It has my SSN on it so I have a copy with the SSN blacked out to show clients.

Medical background ... no way. My response would be "My medical history is legally a private matter which I don't feel I must share with potential clients. As per my state's licensing requirements I have been tested for and cleared for TB and would be glad to show you that." My TB test is an index card size paper from a clinic that says my name, date of birth and a checked box that says "TB test negative".

Not sure what "information I had to provide to be licensed" means but if they are asking to see copies of the paperwork that you had to send in then definitely not. Same goes for my DH and employee. You COULD be funny and make copies of everything and do what the military does when they release military documents and blackout any personal info so that it all looks like ....


When it comes to employees especially if you give out personal information you would be breaking privacy laws. "I completely understand if you do not feel comfortable with this however I operate an honest business and consider my integrity and trust two hallmarks of my business and I could not do anything that goes against that grain"
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sahm1225 06:23 PM 02-18-2014
It's funny to see this because a week or so ago I was reading on another forum about what should you ask your prospect daycare providers and one of the things was asking to see the background checks for every one in the home! It said that it is your right as a future enrolled family to know the background in everyone in the home!

I wonder if that was the same person you interviewed?

So to answer your question - I would explain that licensing does the background checks on everyone in the home. The medical history is personal but you can assure them that licensing does do a tb test and whatever medical tests they require. I would not provide a hard copy. And honestly, I would not even consider enrolling the family UNLESS everything else about them was great and I felt that they were asking for that info because someone incorrectly told them that that is standard information to ask for.
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Heidi 06:36 PM 02-18-2014
Originally Posted by sahm1225:
It's funny to see this because a week or so ago I was reading on a forum about what should you ask your prospect daycare providers and asking to see the background checks for every one in the home! It said that it is your right as a future enrolled family to know the background in everyone in the home!

I wonder if that was the same person you interviewed?

So to answer your question - I would explain that licensing does the background checks on everyone in the home. The medical history is personal but you can assure them that licensing does do a tb test and whatever medical tests they require. I would not provide a hard copy. And honestly, I would not even consider enrolling the family UNLESS everything else about them was great and I felt that they were asking for that info because someone incorrectly told them that that is standard information to ask for.

I'm guessing that on that forum, they didn't know that in most states, it's part of the licensing process. Unless the parent is using an unregulated provider.

I would tell a parent that asked for those things this: These things have been provided to the state as part of the licensing process. If you would like to confirm this, here is the number you can call at DCF. They can confirm that these things have been done.

The thing is, I can show them a copy of the BID form, but the state runs the actual DOJ background check on our family members ages 12+, and I never see it (they would deny me a license if it were not acceptable). I run the background check only on my volunteers or employees, and licensing checks my records when they visit. As far as I'm concerned (and it may be the law) my employees personnel file is confidential employment information. I would not share that with a potential client. I can tell them that the background checks have been done and are clear. They can take my word for it or shop elsewhere.
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daycare 06:36 PM 02-18-2014
it is also the norm for where I live too. except the medical, that's my business not theirs.

I show all of my employees DOJ clearance, anyone over 18 who lives in my home too. I show them everyone's CPR/First Aid, I show all of mine as well.

I also show their DMV records, my one asst does drive on field trips.

lastly, I provide 5 references of past daycare clients.

if they ask for more than that the answer is no. If they tried to argue it with me I would tell them I am not going to interview with them or offer up the spot. NEXT................
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craftymissbeth 06:44 PM 02-18-2014
In my state we don't get anything to show that we even passed the background check other than our license. If anyone living, working, or volunteering in the home didn't pass then we would find out. But we don't have anything to actually show clients.
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Meeko 08:29 PM 02-18-2014
The license on my wall is proof enough that I am CPR and first aid certified, have all background clearances (and my entire family), have completed required annual training etc etc....meeting all licensing requirements. It wouldn't be there if I didn't. No reason to provide more.

I do give references if they ask, but no more.

Does this same lady go to the doctor's office and despite the fact he is a practicing licensed MD with his diploma on the wall.......demand to see his class schedule from college, references from his college professors and his dorm room mate?

I feel sorry for the kid's kindy teacher when that time comes. Mom will be wanting blood samples........
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EntropyControlSpecialist 09:01 PM 02-18-2014
Originally Posted by Meeko:
Don't EVER give out your personal information.

tell her that licensing has done all that for her and you couldn't be licensed without it. For security purposes you don't give out that information.

And you MEDICAL records??

I personally wouldn't even consider taking someone like that.
Bingo. You are not her nanny. You own and operate your own business.
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EntropyControlSpecialist 09:03 PM 02-18-2014
Originally Posted by daycare:
it is also the norm for where I live too. except the medical, that's my business not theirs.

I show all of my employees DOJ clearance, anyone over 18 who lives in my home too. I show them everyone's CPR/First Aid, I show all of mine as well.

I also show their DMV records, my one asst does drive on field trips.

lastly, I provide 5 references of past daycare clients.

if they ask for more than that the answer is no. If they tried to argue it with me I would tell them I am not going to interview with them or offer up the spot. NEXT................
I have never, not even once, provided ANY of this information to clients. Only one has asked for references and I referred her to our business Facebook page and told her she could contact any of the parents who are tagged in photos on there and I am sure they would be happy to speak with her. She never did, but she did enroll here.
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Unregistered 01:17 AM 02-19-2014
Thank you so much for your replies. I feel much better now knowing that I am not the only thing thinking that was too much.

They already came for an interview and seems very nice, but over the phone later they were very demanding. They want to enroll their child at my daycare very much but I would rather not.Even if I understand they want to make sure their child is safe.

How do you refuse a child to enroll politely and without causing drama?

Thank you for your help, I really appreciate it!
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Meeko 05:14 AM 02-19-2014
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Thank you so much for your replies. I feel much better now knowing that I am not the only thing thinking that was too much.

They already came for an interview and seems very nice, but over the phone later they were very demanding. They want to enroll their child at my daycare very much but I would rather not.Even if I understand they want to make sure their child is safe.

How do you refuse a child to enroll politely and without causing drama?

Thank you for your help, I really appreciate it!
Tell her the truth. I would...but then I am a forward kinda gal

That you don't think they would be a good fit as you feel very uncomfortable being asked for personal information that invades your privacy.

Actually the easiest way is just to tell them that you have had several families interview for the spot and it is now filled. That you enjoyed meeting them...blah...blah...etc.
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taylorw1210 06:13 AM 02-19-2014
Originally Posted by Meeko:
Don't EVER give out your personal information.

tell her that licensing has done all that for her and you couldn't be licensed without it. For security purposes you don't give out that information.

And you MEDICAL records??

I personally wouldn't even consider taking someone like that.
What she said!
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KIDZRMYBIZ 07:03 AM 02-19-2014
I had a DCD that did something similar. He wanted to see the checklist from every state inspection (fine), every food program inspection (fine), my health info report my dr fills out for the state (not fine), and that he would do his own background check and google me (okie-doke, go for it). I was able to understand his perspective, and I was kind and said all the right things about it. Of course, it was afterward that I came up with the snappy comeback:

"Since I don't know you, you nor your wife carries any diseases that could be passed on to your son/daughter, right? He/she will spend a great many hours in my family's home, and I will be wiping various body fluids from him/her every day. No? Oh, good. And you do keep your own home clean, I assume. Yes? Great! Lice, mites, and fleas, and even pet hair are always a concern with group care when children are coming from many different homes. And speaking of background checks, that is something I may start doing for potential clients. Never can be too safe, since you will be in my home at least twice a day. Can I have your full names, please, as they would appear on the Registered Sex Offender list?"


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daycare 07:32 AM 02-19-2014
I don't mind it at all. I feel that we are caring for their most precious gift in their life. We are not taking care of their dogs, (although I have seen some people treat their dogs better than their children) or a family pet, it's their child. They just want to make sure that their child is going to be safe. they don't know anything about us.

It does feel uncomfortable that they ask these things, because it makes us feel not trusted or incapable of doing our job.

In my area alone 2 HOME daycares and 3 centers were plagued by the media due to horrible providers that severely hurt children in their care. As a parent it scared me and made me realize what parents who are looking for childcare must go through to make sure that they are not leaving their child with the soup lady. there are no guarantees, but what these parents are doing is just being proactive.

Also, my employees are not required to post anything and don't have a license like I do that has requirements, they only have their clearances which I have no issues showing parents.

I would give parents any information that was required for me to obtain my business, my health has nothing to do with it.

I do think however, there was a thread sometime back about a provider who was using heavy narcotics due to her health and was still providing childcare. It's stuff like that that make parents worry.
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Blackcat31 07:51 AM 02-19-2014
Originally Posted by daycare:
I don't mind it at all. I feel that we are caring for their most precious gift in their life. We are not taking care of their dogs, (although I have seen some people treat their dogs better than their children) or a family pet, it's their child. They just want to make sure that their child is going to be safe. they don't know anything about us.

It does feel uncomfortable that they ask these things, because it makes us feel not trusted or incapable of doing our job.

In my area alone 2 HOME daycares and 3 centers were plagued by the media due to horrible providers that severely hurt children in their care. As a parent it scared me and made me realize what parents who are looking for childcare must go through to make sure that they are not leaving their child with the soup lady. there are no guarantees, but what these parents are doing is just being proactive.

Also, my employees are not required to post anything and don't have a license like I do that has requirements, they only have their clearances which I have no issues showing parents.

I would give parents any information that was required for me to obtain my business, my health has nothing to do with it.

I do think however, there was a thread sometime back about a provider who was using heavy narcotics due to her health and was still providing childcare. It's stuff like that that make parents worry.
This is where the trust thing comes into play.

You are right, the parents don't know you and we are providing care to their most precious gifts buuuut, there isn't a single piece of paper or certificate, license or degree that guarantees that you (general you) aren't a bad provider or wouldn't hurt their child...kwim?

If all the info the parents requested listed in the OP's post was shown to those parents, HOW would that protect them?

Even good providers snap. That's why we hear about it on the news so often. Comments from stunned neighbors saying "Wow, she was such a nice loving provider", "I never would have suspected" or "I can't believe it, that just doesn't sound like the Kathy I know" etc....

When parents choose to use licensed care, they have to trust in the agency that licenses the providers.

I know the trust can't or won't always be 100% but it still ahs to exist on some level or there really is no point.

If the parent is seriously that concerned, I don't think licensed care is the right choice for them.
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daycare 07:56 AM 02-19-2014
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
This is where the trust thing comes into play.

You are right, the parents don't know you and we are providing care to their most precious gifts buuuut, there isn't a single piece of paper or certificate, license or degree that guarantees that you (general you) aren't a bad provider or wouldn't hurt their child...kwim?

If all the info the parents requested listed in the OP's post was shown to those parents, HOW would that protect them?

Even good providers snap. That's why we hear about it on the news so often. Comments from stunned neighbors saying "Wow, she was such a nice loving provider", "I never would have suspected" or "I can't believe it, that just doesn't sound like the Kathy I know" etc....

When parents choose to use licensed care, they have to trust in the agency that licenses the providers.

I know the trust can't or won't always be 100% but it still ahs to exist on some level or there really is no point.

If the parent is seriously that concerned, I don't think licensed care is the right choice for them.
I agree 100% what you are saying as I said that there is no guarantee. BUT I feel that parents are doing it so that they felt that they are being proactive about it.

I am this parent that the OP talks about, (minus the health stuff) Anytime my kids go to someones house that i don't know MY kids say that i go crazy...

I ask do you guys have guns in your home, will the parents be home, do you plan on driving my child any where, etc. I ask a ton of questions. NONE of them will guarantee that my child will not get hurt while under their friends parents care, but it makes me feel better that the parent was willing to cooperate with me answering my questions. MOST parents say to me, GOSH you make me look like a bad parent, I never thought to ask those things. I have done this their whole lives. My older two are 15-17 and i still do it to with them.
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Blackcat31 08:01 AM 02-19-2014
Originally Posted by daycare:
I agree 100% what you are saying as I said that there is no guarantee. BUT I feel that parents are doing it so that they felt that they are being proactive about it.

I am this parent that the OP talks about, (minus the health stuff) Anytime my kids go to someones house that i don't know MY kids say that i go crazy...

I ask do you guys have guns in your home, will the parents be home, do you plan on driving my child any where, etc. I ask a ton of questions. NONE of them will guarantee that my child will not get hurt while under their friends parents care, but it makes me feel better that the parent was willing to cooperate with me answering my questions. MOST parents say to me, GOSH you make me look like a bad parent, I never thought to ask those things. I have done this their whole lives. My older two are 15-17 and i still do it to with them.
I agree, but your kids' friends/parents aren't regulated by the state. I would (and did) ask the same questions too.

I also understand how this might make the parents feel better but as a provider, it would make me feel untrusted or under a microscope. NOT the kind of work conditions I would agree to.
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daycare 08:14 AM 02-19-2014
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I agree, but your kids' friends/parents aren't regulated by the state. I would (and did) ask the same questions too.

I also understand how this might make the parents feel better but as a provider, it would make me feel untrusted or under a microscope. NOT the kind of work conditions I would agree to.
this stands true about me, but my employees don't have any proof other than their actual clearances and certificates. The STATE does not check theirs unless they come to do a home inspection. I have not had a home inspection in 2 years and before that 5 years.
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Cat Herder 08:53 AM 02-19-2014
In my State when you have the background done they send you a letter stating that your record has been verified. It gives your name, address, State Provider Id#, expiration date and is on their letterhead with contact numbers. If someone asks I can just give them a copy of that.

Of course it is also available for them to print themselves off the State website, along with the last 2 years worth of inspections. Asking for a hardcopy shows they did not do the work of investigating on their own.

We also have to sign a medical waiver saying we are fit for duty and a residency waiver saying we are here legally. These are pretty new...
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Babyluver21 10:47 AM 02-19-2014
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Hello,

I am a Family daycare owner, and previously worked years in a daycare.

Until now, all families were very trustful and we got along happily. But recently I had a parent wanted to enroll their child, who ask to have hard copy of
-My background/fingerprint result/information
-Medical background
-Information I had to provide to be licensed (which include my SSN and all)
All of this about me but also my worker and husband.

Of course I understand the parent want to make sure he can trust all of us . But isn't that too personal to share?

If you had a similar situation would you share theses or how should I handle this situation....?

Thank you so much for your help!
I would NOT be handing over all your info, client or not. Your medical info is protected by HIPAA and you don't have to share that for any reason, and her asking you is out of line unless she saw you have a seizure or something while caring for her child, then I could see it, but remember, Licensing already had you do a physical to see that you are physically able to care for children before they approved you. She needs nothing else. If she wants to run a private background check, that's fine, but she should pay for that. She could contact the state for the PUBLIC information. Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES do you give her your SSN. Do you know how common ID theft is? You never know whether a client would use it, or maybe LOSE it and someone else take it and go nuts with your identity. You should have a separate EIN for tax purposes, so that would be ok because that's specific to your business and is public record anyway. (Plus if they write off daycare expenses, it makes it MUCH easier for you to give that to them, than you to have to fill out and fax paperwork on their behalf to a tax person or the IRS)
I wouldn't share anything else but what you already have (name, license #, addr, etc) She's got enough info on you to verify you on her own background check. Remember, your personal, financial, and medical information is private and should remain that way for your own protection. That doesn't mean you have anything to hide, but you don't know that the other person doesn't.

I would:
Share the BASICS she already has so she can conduct her own background check on you
Share your EIN only (NEVER the SSN)
Answer other basic questions about your home and it's safety (i.e. who comes over, guns, dogs, etc...)
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Maria2013 05:33 AM 02-20-2014
I've never been asked any of those things.
...but if I were, I wouldn't take offence to it, I would just direct them to ask DHS
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mountainside13 05:37 AM 02-20-2014
I would share everything except my medical background. That is my personal business and I don't think sharing that part of my life is necessary for them to know.
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