I recently revamped my WHOLE handbook/contract. I made my policies MUCH more strict and switched to contracted hours. I have been working on this handbook for 2 weeks (have to give a shout out to Blackcat for some GREAT ideas!) I have not been so active on trying to set up interviews to fill in a spot for a new SA, but I was just told that when I go on vacation in 3 weeks (first one in YEARS...yayyy!!!) one of my other kiddos won't be returning. So...on with the interviews...

Had one today. Already awkward in the beginning because as soon as they get out of their car, I realize I had an interview with them before! They didn't say anything about it so maybe they didn't remember but obviously, it didn't work out because they didn't sign on the first time. After we talk for a few minutes, one of the parents says "I'm going to be honest, after reading your handbook, I was thinking that I didn't want you to watch my child. All of your rules and policies make you sound very strict and mean. After meeting you I can tell that's not the case, but it was off putting at first."

Are you kidding me??? I worked so hard on that and I was proud of it when I finished! I thought it covered everything necessary, in a no fuss kind of way, that shows I am serious about my work and the responsibility of taking care of their children, and will not be taken advantage of. Parents will always acknowledge that they understand every policy is there for a reason, but then they think that you sound like a big "meanie" for wanting to enforce them!

Is it Friday yettt???

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