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Parents and Guardians Forum>Charging on Holidays
jen 02:03 PM 12-09-2010
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Wow, I really did not mean to open a can of worms. And what you all do is a thankless job and I am VERY blessed to have my child in a great daycare. Hopefull you can see my side too. No one is asking for you to take unpaid holidays. And technically the parents are paying for your paid holiday by paying for a full week. But can't it be both? Can't the parents pay a prorated fee if it is a partial week and you still get paid?
It is more the days off when no one else is off that is the issue.Like I have said I do get it and once again I thank all of those who are really doing good work, just those days that they are closed (monday after xmas) but everyone else has to work still kills me. Think about the parents who do not have paid days off and they now have to stay home, lose a days pay and then on tuesday pay for the whole week. Just reverse the roles. And if not, we can agree to disagree
Personally, I charge for Holidays, but do not charge for any other day that I might be closed. HOWEVER, and this is BIG, did you sign a contract that states what you were going to have to pay for?

It makes me loopy when I take the time and effort to create a contract that people are supposed to have read, they definitely signed, and THEN they complain later. If you didn't want to have to pay for those days, why did you agree to do so?
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marniewon 02:46 PM 12-10-2010
Originally Posted by jen:
Personally, I charge for Holidays, but do not charge for any other day that I might be closed. HOWEVER, and this is BIG, did you sign a contract that states what you were going to have to pay for?

It makes me loopy when I take the time and effort to create a contract that people are supposed to have read, they definitely signed, and THEN they complain later. If you didn't want to have to pay for those days, why did you agree to do so?
Exactly! There are so many providers out there, and they all don't have the same policies - I'm sure it wouldn't be too hard to find one that doesn't charge for holidays or their vacations or whatever. If you (general "you") signed the contract, then that's on you. Should have read it and known the policies of that daycare before you signed it.
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MissAnn 10:02 AM 01-11-2011
Originally Posted by A mom:
Our daycare provider charges only for the days my daughter is physically there so long as we tell them by the Sunday evening of that particular week. So we do not pay for holidays, we do not pay for our vacations, and we don't pay for any days I know in advance that she won't be there. They use this open communication system of scheduling to give their caretakers more flexibility in their own schedules. So no, not all providers charge for the "slot." Some actually charge for the care that is provided.
I would be curious to know if this is a licensed provider? Does she carry insurance on her program? I for one could not afford to charge only for days each child attends. This is income we rely on, just as you do. If I want to stay in business and more importantly if I want to provide excellent quality, that takes money. Before I was licensed, I charged only for days the child attended. As soon as I earned my license, that quickly came to an end. I do not sell myself short. I also do not make much over minimum wage. I love owning my own program, but honestly.......the hardest part is having parents who do not understand why we have paid time off in our contracts.
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Unregistered 07:11 AM 01-19-2011
I can understand paid holidays for the day care providers (and I hope that they use this money to give their staff paid holidays!)...however, when I get a phone call while in route to the daycare saying that they are closing due to not having enough staff to watch the children (due to wether) then I am not a happy camper. Now I either have to find somebody very quickly and pay them to watch my children for the day OR lose a day's pay myself and still have to pay the daycare...so, now let's look at this situation from the daycare's point of view. She does not have to pay her staff since they called in, she does not have to pay for utilities for that day, there will be no arts and crafts supplies used that day, no toilet paper, no paper towles...you get me point...it doesn't seem right to charge for a day that you close that is NOT a holiday...oh, and by the way, teachers DO NOT get paid holidays. They get paid for 180 school days plus however many professional development days they have to do...if schools are closed for a snow day the teachers do not get paid for that day, they have to make it up in June and that's another day taken away from them that they could be working a summer job and making money...
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mac60 08:31 AM 01-20-2011
the state I live in, teachers get paid a salary, average here $47,000 per year....break that down and that is a pretty damn good wage for the days and amount of hours actually worked for the school year..... plus all the benefits and PTO.
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dEHmom 10:28 AM 01-20-2011
Originally Posted by Todd McCullough:
I also think that the government needs to kick in financing to offset the costs to parents.
I am in Canada as well.

But I have to disagree with this.This is what the Universal Child Care Benefit is.
Unfortunately, too many parents just think of this as money for themselves. 100/mth/child under 6 yo. This is financing to offset the cost to parents.
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momofboys 11:21 AM 01-20-2011
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
I can understand paid holidays for the day care providers (and I hope that they use this money to give their staff paid holidays!)...however, when I get a phone call while in route to the daycare saying that they are closing due to not having enough staff to watch the children (due to wether) then I am not a happy camper. Now I either have to find somebody very quickly and pay them to watch my children for the day OR lose a day's pay myself and still have to pay the daycare...so, now let's look at this situation from the daycare's point of view. She does not have to pay her staff since they called in, she does not have to pay for utilities for that day, there will be no arts and crafts supplies used that day, no toilet paper, no paper towles...you get me point...it doesn't seem right to charge for a day that you close that is NOT a holiday...oh, and by the way, teachers DO NOT get paid holidays. They get paid for 180 school days plus however many professional development days they have to do...if schools are closed for a snow day the teachers do not get paid for that day, they have to make it up in June and that's another day taken away from them that they could be working a summer job and making money...
Most teachers get a paid salary. So when they are sick they still get paid, if they have a snow day they do have to make the day up in some instances but they still get paid the same amount regardless of how much or how little they work that week. Usually their payment is spread out over the whole year. No disrespect to teachers, there are 2 in my family & I know when school is in session it's a lot of work but considering they have 7-8 weeks off in the summer (usually longer than this but I know they also have prep work to do before school starts) & usually 2 weeks at Christmas that is pretty good pay for not working.
So indirectly they are still paid. When there is a snow day they don't deduct a day of pay. I'm pretty sure teachers' unions would not permit that!
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cillybean83 12:07 PM 01-20-2011
the only time I don't charge is if I'm taking the day off. I had surgery and took a week off to heal, I didn't charge for that week, if I take a vacation, I don't charge...but if a parent takes their kid home early, decides to have a mommy/baby day, and for days like Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc, then I charge unless the day falls on a weekend, like Christmas was on Saturday last year, I didn't charge because I wouldn't have been watching the kids anyway.

everyone is different, and no way is right or wrong, what counts is whether or not you agree with the providers rules, no one forced you to sign on the dotted line
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Unregistered 07:51 PM 01-26-2011
My, you sound like a provider who really doesn't like parents or children... Maybe time to find a new profession? I am a healthcare professional and think it is completely fair to provide my childcare provider for the same paid holidays that most other professionals receive.. These would be Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc.. But, we had one who wanted paid time off for every school vacation day, including the 2 weeks off at Christmas paid! This is an extreme hardship on parents who must pay "double" and find someone else to cover those days. Many of these parents aren't lucky enough to be getting ANY paid holidays of their own... Of the ones who are, only parents who happen to be school teachers are getting as many paid holidays as this childcare provider. (We found someone new). If this woman wants so many paid holidays she should go back to college and get a teaching degree.[/quote]

It sounded more like she was frustrated by parents that are unappreciative of a good provider. Listen, there are all sorts of providers out there both good and bad, effective and ineffective. The bottom line is that when you sign up it's important to ask the questions that would be most important to you and the fact that days off didn't come up is an indication that you were more concerned with other things. Maybe now it's become an issue and that happens. There are a varied amount of providers (as you'll read) with varied policies. In the end, it's up to the provider to decide and we do that based on what our expenses are..and some of us have more expenses than others. We have staff, food, utilities, insurance costs, curriculum costs, staff and personal training costs (in NY we are mandated to continue trainings even with a MA!!) cleaning services etc... Many work 11 and 12 hour days (think about your center hours) doing a really tough job. It's not easy to care for a bunch of little children each day trying to ensure their safety and well being, their health and their development. The frustration comes because when parents penny pinch, it comes across as inconsiderate, selfish and ungrateful. By the way, I do have a degree and am a certified teacher. I opted for this because I believe education starts here. Additionally, when your child goes to school, the same will be required. You will either pay for private school, even during school closings, and there are many!! OR you will pay for care during those times and many of us see ourselves as more than "babysitters" but preschools. "By the way, if this woman wants to be paid for so many holidays she should go back to school and get a teaching degree" .... I don't have to get a job in a school to get days off!! I can do whatever I want - as did your old childcare provider. And while I only close one week a year, don't take many days off and I do have subs if I get sick (although I never have!) the bottom line is it's really not your place to make those sorts of comments or judgments. We do teach. We are teachers at our OWN schools and you not knowing what the policies are about days off - well that's your problem ..and I guess your child's. ..I mean now that they're probably getting substandard care..DAILY because they're open all the time.
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Cat Herder 03:47 AM 01-27-2011
Healthcare "Professional",

Wanted to let you know that MANY of the providers here were also Healthcare Providers BEFORE we went into daycare. As a matter of fact there are many here with Master's and, I suspect, one or two with Doctorates.

Most, that I know, opened home daycares/centers because the hours/dedication required were not conducive to raising a family and we made the CHOICE to create our own jobs to solve that issue. I, myself, plan to be back in the field in 5 more years as my kids are teens, now.

Just like the patients choice of going to a level one ER or a Doc-in-the-box at the local strip mall, daycare has it's professional levels of service. And in the exact same way, you get what you pay for and are treated as you treat the staff. I am sorry you feel it is unfair, but do you really feel it is fair to charge $22 for two Tylenol in the hospital? Some things just ARE.....and usually for the same reasons.

My personal policy is that if I am open: they pay, if I am closed: they don't. I do that because I have three kids and know it gets expensive. It is a courtesy, since NONE of the centers near me do that. Believe it or not, I had parents complaining that I was OPEN during the snowstorm. They don't feel they should have to pay me since they "could not get here". We had barely 6 inches of snow and the roads were clear by 10 am each morning. I had breakfast/art projects ready and waiting and they all did the "no call-no show" thing....WHY should I give them a discount??? It really is IMPOSSIBLE to please everybody.
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Unregistered 02:06 PM 02-15-2011
Originally Posted by md12:
I'm a parent and at work I'm not paid for holidays... I don't have a problem paying holidays at daycare... Most companies pay holidays , I'm just not lucky to work for one of those.
My problem is... why pay full tuition when daycare is closed due to wheatear condition?
.
I am not sure about "most companies".
In the economy, there is clearly a trend to hire hourly employees who only get paid for the hours they work with few or no benefis. This means everyone who works in 7-11s all the way to high end Information Technology contract positions. FTE is shrinking, hourly "temp" positions are growing.

Legally, day care providers are independent contractors. What they get paid is stated in each individual contract. If there is enough leverage and you are in the right area, you can negotiate a good contract. Otherwise, not.

OTOH, I do perfectly understand business needs of the daycare.
It costs whatever it costs. So no matter how you slice it, you have to pay that cost. Either annually, monthly, weekly, daily or hourly. If hourly, then the rate has to reflect the costs. Paying weekly is just a little easier to deal with than writing a 4-digit montly check, maybe. Or maybe not.

Whether one gets say 7 days of sick time or holidays or bad weather, it will have to be made up via higher hourly or daily/weekly rates. It just really depends on your local economy, if it allows the leverage to do that. Usually it's a buyer's market but not everywhere it seems.
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Angelwings36 09:34 AM 02-16-2011
Originally Posted by Interested:
Is it legal to charge for day care for days the children are not at day care or days the day care close because of weather or holidays.
Absoulotely it is legal! As providers we are only allowed to take in so many children as per law. What you are paying for is a slot not just the service. Most parents get both paid sick days and paid holidays...why should a provider not recieve the same? Also please keep in mind that most providers can not afford to take holidays if they are unpaid. Which means these providers would not be taking holidays and working straight through every year. Do you really want a worn out provider taking care of your child?

If you do not want to pay for days that your child is not attending or holidays it would probably be in your best interest to look for a daycare that offers such.
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Angelwings36 09:41 AM 02-16-2011
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Originally Posted by Unregistered
Exactly my thoughts *Interested*
"Sometimes I think parents whine more than children. You are paying for the slot, not for the hour. If you want it spelled out.... you have a yearly flat rate. It is broken down for your convenience. Or would you rather pay by the year?? The only thing to change this is what the policy makes exceptions to. Have you ever heard of salary pay? No matter how many hours you work, it is a flat pay. It is the same principle. Got a problem? Start your own day care and see what we are talking about, then maybe you would understand better. If we catered to everyones whims, we would watch your precious for free 24/7. "

My, you sound like a provider who really doesn't like parents or children... Maybe time to find a new profession? I am a healthcare professional and think it is completely fair to provide my childcare provider for the same paid holidays that most other professionals receive.. These would be Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc.. But, we had one who wanted paid time off for every school vacation day, including the 2 weeks off at Christmas paid! This is an extreme hardship on parents who must pay "double" and find someone else to cover those days. Many of these parents aren't lucky enough to be getting ANY paid holidays of their own... Of the ones who are, only parents who happen to be school teachers are getting as many paid holidays as this childcare provider. (We found someone new). If this woman wants so many paid holidays she should go back to college and get a teaching degree.
I do not feel that she sounds like a provider who really doesn't like parents or children or that she needs to find a new profession. To be honest I think it is just rude of you to state that! I take paid stat holidays and 1 week of paid holidays in the summer and 2 weeks of paid holidays at christmas. I work VERY hard and I am VERY good at my job and I absoulotely deserve these holidays. If any parent disagreed with this I would simply ask them to find childcare else wheres. All of my clients at the moment are just fine paying over my holidays and some of them even give me credit for doing so.

If you don't want to pay for holidays though there are providers out there that do not charge...however it is not fair to knock us professionals that do!
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Unregistered 09:05 AM 06-23-2011
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Exactly my thoughts *Interested*
Sometimes I think parents whine more than children. You are paying for the slot, not for the hour. If you want it spelled out.... you have a yearly flat rate. It is broken down for your convenience. Or would you rather pay by the year?? The only thing to change this is what the policy makes exceptions to. Have you ever heard of salary pay? No matter how many hours you work, it is a flat pay. It is the same principle. Got a problem? Start your own day care and see what we are talking about, then maybe you would understand better. If we catered to everyones whims, we would watch your precious for free 24/7.

Wow can you sound anymore bitchy!? It was a simple question. That is what's wrong with the Daycare system these days is the owners are all money hungry that watch our "precious" for a ton of money!
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Former Teacher 05:11 PM 06-23-2011
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Wow can you sound anymore bitchy!? It was a simple question. That is what's wrong with the Daycare system these days is the owners are all money hungry that watch our "precious" for a ton of money!
Why are these types of posts approved? This thread last finished in Feb and then someone who is unregistered bumps it back up only to have a potty mouth.
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Cat Herder 05:14 PM 06-23-2011
I hear you, Former Teacher.

I want to know where I can find a precious to keep for a ton of money

Throw me in that briar bush....
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cheerfuldom 06:30 PM 06-23-2011
yeah this whole argument needs to just die....forever. If you don't like your daycare situation, FIND SOMETHING ELSE! no one is holding you hostage to keep your kid there. If this is the best situation you can find then stop complaining and just accept it as it is. There is NO way that a provider could keep every family happy on each thing.

Totally different topic but why should I reduce my rates just because the economy is bad? Would someone else turn down a promotion just because every one else didn't get one? I understand everyone has hard times during life but does Walmart reduce prices just for you because your hours got cut back? I absolutely hate the arguments about daycare costing so much. Kids ARE expensive, deal with it.
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dEHmom 06:05 AM 06-24-2011
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Wow can you sound anymore bitchy!? It was a simple question. That is what's wrong with the Daycare system these days is the owners are all money hungry that watch our "precious" for a ton of money!
Ok I realize this is old, but seriously!!!!!!?????????

I disagree wholeheartedly with this statement about being money hungry.

In comparison, lets just look at the numbers....

Daycare provider charges $25/child/day....this includes their food, snacks, milk, juice, toilet flushes, toilet paper, soap to wash dishes, soap to wash their hands, cleaning products to keep everything clean so dear dcc doesn't get sick, energy costs associated with equipment, cooking etc, personal chef, personal caterer, butt wiper, friend, and i can go on and on and on. We also make sure we feed dck's healthy, well balanced meals, not kraft dinner or hot dogs everyday. And lets also consider that the approximate amount of food each child will eat per day is $4.27 off of the $25/day.

Right now I have 2 dck's who I charge 25/day for 1 and 22/day for the other.... that's less than $50/ day I make for my 11 hour day (because they are staggered arrival/departure times..... After factoring the food costs associated with your child, plus all the overhead, how much are us daycare providers truly making???? $5/day? $10/day? For more than a 12 hour day once you factor in all the clean up and prep work before and after daycare hours.

Alot of parents make different money at work, but lets go on a wage a lot of people I know make (and yes i do realize that many work for less than this) @ $25/hr for an 8 hour work day, that's $200/day! Is it REALLLLLLY worth all these negative comments about daycare providers who charge and having to find backups, and blah blah blah.

We are not money hungry, if we were, we would charge ALOT MORE!

It really bothers me when posters on here state how we make so much money, and this and that. We do this job because we love it, and we want to offer our home out to your child. Not because we are money hungry.
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jen 06:10 AM 06-24-2011
LOL! It's just a troll looking for a reaction! Hit your internal ignore button!
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Blackcat31 08:04 AM 06-24-2011
Originally Posted by dEHmom:
We are not money hungry, if we were, we would charge ALOT MORE!

It really bothers me when posters on here state how we make so much money, and this and that. We do this job because we love it, and we want to offer our home out to your child. Not because we are money hungry.
I am not money hungry but I did just watch a Diners, Drive-ins and Dives episode and they showcased a place that made wild rice french toast with blackberry sauce and now I am starving!!!!
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dEHmom 09:05 AM 06-24-2011
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I am not money hungry but I did just watch a Diners, Drive-ins and Dives episode and they showcased a place that made wild rice french toast with blackberry sauce and now I am starving!!!!

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ProudMom2evry1 07:48 PM 08-09-2011
Originally Posted by CharlesReese:
I personally don't own a day care, nor do I ever plan on it. However, I do understand that it is a business, but any business should know what is ethical and unethical or does anyone have a conscious these days.

After reading some of the post that had been written some time ago, I wonder how you think you should be paid for holidays and for inclement weather when you don’t watch children.

My problem is this, if you watch a child then you should be paid for those services. If you don’t then there should be no charge. My wife and I have to deal with her brother and his wife. They don’t have a day care, but they sure do operate their home like it is. (Of course there home can be treated as such.)

Earning my Master’s and learning more and more about businesses and how they operate helps me understand what is ethical and not ethical. So again let me ask the question, why should daycare’s be paid for services not rendered for bad weather, holidays, or when children can be watched by their parents?

Just saying, “you get paid holidays why shouldn’t we” is not an valid argument.

It’s dishonest to charge parents when you don’t watch children. I do agree that policies should be up front and in writing. But again are your policies honest? If they are, then I’m sure parents will enjoy doing business with you, if not your probably still going to have that migraine.

Companies still have to take out federal income tax, state income tax, health care fees, retirement, S.S. fees, and disability. Of course some of these are mandatory while others are voluntarily. So as a daycare are you doing all of this? Do you offer retirement for your employees, paid holidays, paid time off, and sick leave?

Again, why should parents pay a daycare for services they didn’t provide?

If someone on this blog can give me an honest and valid argument then maybe you can persuade me to understand why you should be paid for services not provided?
Before I start, I would like everyone to know that everything I mentioned here concerning child care is based in CA.

When I was taking my child to a day care provider some years ago, all I know is that I'm paying her for taking care of my child and that's it! I worked at a retail store and the word "holiday" does not really exist so, I was a little bit upset. I thought that it was really not fair for me to pay her when I can't bring my son in due to her vacation or paid holiday. I thought that it was not fair that she's getting paid for relaxing and spending time with her family while I have to go to work and leave my child to some other stranger just so she can take her "day off".

Well, after a few years I decided to open up my own day care and learned a few things on how to run this business. Well, I did not know about the capacity limit and the restrictions set by the state. So, here's how it works:

Capacity limit of 6-8 kids for small day care - this means that 3 kids can be ages from 0-24 months and 8 kids if u have 2 school aged kids with only 2 kids that are 0-24mos of age

If you had you small day care license for over a year, you can request for a large license meaning your capacity limit will be changed from 6-8 to 12-14 kids with age restrictions.

Capacity limit of 12-kids are allowed if you have 4 kids ages 0-24 months. If only 3 kids are ages 0-24 mos, you can have up to 14 provided that at least 2 of them are school aged. You are also required to have an assistant.

Now, going back to the question. Why do parents have to pay their child care providers even if their child is not present? Because child care providers don't get paid by the hour. If we do, then it's only fair not to charge for the time or days that their child is not in our care.

If we at least get paid the minimum wage, no child care provider will complain.

This is how I make parents understand and realize that they are paying for the spot and not for my time:

I offer the "drop-in basis". This means that parents don't have to pay me for the days that their child is not here, but since the spot is not guaranteed for their child, they have to call me the day before they wish to drop off their child. Of course, if I have the spot, I say sure... but, if I don't... then I just say "no".

Parents are our clients, not our employers. We don't have employees' rights but, we set our own policies. We don't get paid by the hour but we charge for the child's spot.

Just like a retail store, if you don't like their return policy or their prices... you just simply have to move on. We are a business and not employees. I hope this helps.
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Christian Mother 10:22 AM 08-10-2011
I think you def. do have to look at it as a "case by case" issue. Although it is not illegal to charge for holidays or days not there. You do need to put a lot of time looking for a provider... To be honest, I think person(s) looking for care for their child(s) need to do a lot of investigating on what they want in a provider/facility. There are going to be compromises on both ends. But you need to make sure you make a list of things you are looking for. Your child is the most important thing to you so why not take the time to really go in and look for that "perfect" care your looking for. Take in consideration that this is a business to us and we work soooo very hard on making sure your child is safe, loved, entertained, taught, encouraged, I could go on and on. I am willing to bet that your not happy where your at bc you wouldn't question at all pay. You would be sooo over happy where your leaving your child that money would never be a issue. If you think your paying to much you need to be in communication with your provider. Start looking in your area for what the going rate is and if they charge for days that your child is not there. Some do some don't. I do not but I can tell you. My child care here every day. They don't miss days and the parent provide me with toys, food, gift certificates, little notes of appreciation. They do this with out me even asking. I love it bc it makes me feel appreciated..and I would never ask for more money bc these parent go above and beyond. I sometimes will care for a child when it is a holiday and I charge double my normal rate. They don't complain or even argue it. I am hardly ever sick. Last yr I had pneumonia and was sick for 3 days and some of my kids stayed home and i had maybe 2 child that my husband came home to help watch since I could not. We all make do as we all care and love each other. It's a group effort but it is still a business. If you agreed and signed the contract your bound to it. If you now feel that you can't continue paying or you now don't agree you need to have a talk with your provider and either try to find a compromise or give your 2 weeks notice but understand that you will still have to pay regardless of whether your child is there or not.
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mismatchedsocks 10:33 AM 08-10-2011
I started to reply, but didnt read the whole post. However my take on charging for holidays is this. I charge a rate. Its a weekly rate. You pay this weekly rate to me every week. The only time you do not have to pay me is when I am on vacation, because then I feel that they may have to pay for another daycare.

Here is a way to think about it. or word it.

"I charge a weekly fee of $150 a week ( for example ). This is to be paid weekly on Monday. There is no discount for days off or holidays because it is already worked into the tuition amount. It also covers the food, love, warmth, electricity, ...... etc. that I will provide. Even times/days your child is not here I am planning for them to be here. Food, arts, laundry, gifts, etc."

If you think about how many days we work in a year ( me its 60 a week times 52 weeks = 3,120. Then subtract my week off, and then about 5 holidays. So about 3000 hours. Divide this by 52 weeks is about 57 hours a week, equals to about 2.60 an hour. OR if we did the hourly way, that parents want only when their child was here. I would not charge 2.60 an hour. I would charge about 4 an hour, so pretty much paying $170 a week.

that was a bunch of rambling, but in other words the tuition that a parent pays every week here takes into account the holidays and days off when making the price.
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Unregistered 07:21 AM 08-26-2011
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Yes it is legal.
Why should you get paid for holidays and not us?
If you want PAID holidays then get a job where you work for someone.... you own a day care so put your big boy pants on and understand what going in to businees means!!!
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Unregistered 03:12 PM 08-29-2011
Yes it is. A daycare is a business you are coming to someone's business you are not their boss and you do not set the rules, if you want to do that hire a nanny. All licensed daycare's have a contract (if you went to one that is not licensed that is your fault) and you signed that contract so you are abide to follow the rules. If you do not like it, look for another place for your child. And when you do think that daycare providers work 12 to 13 hours a day for less than 3 dollars an hour, that is not even minimum wage so show a little appreciation for the person that is helping you race your child. There is to kinds of daycare the ones that don't do anything with the children just put them in front of a TV and watch them play, and the ones that prepare daily activities, lesson plans, never have the TV on etc...quality daycare is expensive. So again is your decision what kind of daycare you want for your child and how much are you willing to pay for it. I charge by month so I charge for 48 weeks a year instead of the 52 weeks everybody charges so there is my 2 week vacation time and Holidays that I consider I well deserved for my hard work. Any of the parents in my DC complains and they all tell me to have a nice vacation all the time other wise (since I have a waiting list) they would not be in my daycare.
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Unregistered 03:39 PM 08-29-2011
can some one tell me why daycares are allowed to charge fees even when they decided to close the center? on stat holidays as well?
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Jewels 06:19 AM 09-02-2011
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
can some one tell me why daycares are allowed to charge fees even when they decided to close the center? on stat holidays as well?
OK SERIOUSLY???? Read The above^^^ 400 replies to same same original question.
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blessedmess8 07:39 AM 09-02-2011
Originally Posted by crazycat97306:
I personally take 5 holidays off each year as well as a week at the end of summer. I also usually take 3-4 days off throughout the year as sick days. These are days where I am too sick to care for children properly or days when my own kids have something contagious like strep throat. I charge monthly based on 4 weeks in a month. For example, I charge $440 per month per child, based on $110 for 4 weeks. Therefore parents are only paying for 48 weeks a year instead of 52. This allows me to take my time off without having to lose any money. This also means that parents are not paying twice when they have to pay for backup.
Hey! I like that!
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odskids 08:14 AM 09-02-2011
I couldn't have said it better!
Parents need to read, understand, and agree to the contract they are signing. If they do not agree to the paid days off, then find care elsewhere. We work, long hours and need a break just like anyone else to reenergize so we can be the the best providers for the children that we care for! It's that simple!
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caligirl 10:15 AM 10-12-2011
Originally Posted by Interested:
Is it legal to charge for day care for days the children are not at day care or days the day care close because of weather or holidays.
If you put it in your contract and the parent signs it. YES it is legal.
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kayla 09:43 AM 11-15-2011
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Originally Posted by Unregistered
Exactly my thoughts *Interested*
"Sometimes I think parents whine more than children. You are paying for the slot, not for the hour. If you want it spelled out.... you have a yearly flat rate. It is broken down for your convenience. Or would you rather pay by the year?? The only thing to change this is what the policy makes exceptions to. Have you ever heard of salary pay? No matter how many hours you work, it is a flat pay. It is the same principle. Got a problem? Start your own day care and see what we are talking about, then maybe you would understand better. If we catered to everyones whims, we would watch your precious for free 24/7. "

My, you sound like a provider who really doesn't like parents or children... Maybe time to find a new profession? I am a healthcare professional and think it is completely fair to provide my childcare provider for the same paid holidays that most other professionals receive.. These would be Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc.. But, we had one who wanted paid time off for every school vacation day, including the 2 weeks off at Christmas paid! This is an extreme hardship on parents who must pay "double" and find someone else to cover those days. Many of these parents aren't lucky enough to be getting ANY paid holidays of their own... Of the ones who are, only parents who happen to be school teachers are getting as many paid holidays as this childcare provider. (We found someone new). If this woman wants so many paid holidays she should go back to college and get a teaching degree.
maybe you should only have children you can afford. And read a contract fully before you sign..
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kayla 09:46 AM 11-15-2011
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
If you want PAID holidays then get a job where you work for someone.... you own a day care so put your big boy pants on and understand what going in to businees means!!!
good point we own a daycare..hint:we make the rules get over it... please read a contract before you sign it!!!
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renodeb 10:27 AM 11-15-2011
Unfortunatly, (sp?) It is legal. I dont do it that way but most places will have it in writting. The dcs I know of where I live dont discount for bad weather. I think its up tp the individual place to make up there policies.
Debbie
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jgpdz 06:52 PM 11-17-2011
It's easy for you to say that parents whine but funny that the money is not coming out of your pocket...you must a provider!
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Cat Herder 04:26 AM 11-18-2011
Yeah, having children is expensive.
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Taxpayer 10:54 AM 11-23-2011
Do Day Cares still charge the state for subsidized daycare rates for days when services are not rendered due to inclement weather or holidays?
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Unregistered 12:13 PM 11-23-2011
Originally Posted by Taxpayer:
Do Day Cares still charge the state for subsidized daycare rates for days when services are not rendered due to inclement weather or holidays?
Our state subsidized program pays for 10 Federal holidays for families on assistance ONLY if the provider normally charges ALL other families for those same holidays.

Our state does NOT pay for closures for the provider vacation or parent vacations or for bad weather closures. Even if ALL the other parents have to pay. In that case, we have to directly bill the family since the state doesn't cover it. The only other option is to not to charge ANY family for any closures.
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Unregistered 06:13 PM 01-22-2012
Blah, blah, blah. You get vacation pay why shouldn't we, yes but the other people don't pay for it the company does. Please, all I know is that it's another way they got you/they got us by the b-lls. At $13,000 a year for my kid, let see total of 27 kids mostly from welfare families (many places) I pay cash, and they walk away with $351,000 a year. Really? You think I should pay for your vacation still? 2-teachers making what $40,000 at total max $80,000 leaving $271,000 for daycare. Really? Owners should learn to eat some of costs. I've learned that I'm in the wrong business.
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littlemissmuffet 08:14 PM 01-22-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Blah, blah, blah. You get vacation pay why shouldn't we, yes but the other people don't pay for it the company does. Please, all I know is that it's another way they got you/they got us by the b-lls. At $13,000 a year for my kid, let see total of 27 kids mostly from welfare families (many places) I pay cash, and they walk away with $351,000 a year. Really? You think I should pay for your vacation still? 2-teachers making what $40,000 at total max $80,000 leaving $271,000 for daycare. Really? Owners should learn to eat some of costs. I've learned that I'm in the wrong business.
Then stay home and take care of your own children. Or put them in a center. You have a choice. So do we.
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Unregistered 11:35 AM 01-28-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Exactly my thoughts *Interested*
Sometimes I think parents whine more than children. You are paying for the slot, not for the hour. If you want it spelled out.... you have a yearly flat rate. It is broken down for your convenience. Or would you rather pay by the year?? The only thing to change this is what the policy makes exceptions to. Have you ever heard of salary pay? No matter how many hours you work, it is a flat pay. It is the same principle. Got a problem? Start your own day care and see what we are talking about, then maybe you would understand better. If we catered to everyones whims, we would watch your precious for free 24/7.
YES!!! THIS


OP: This is just yet another situation where parents want to crap on their providers. Is it legal for your job to pay you for time you DON'T WORK? Oh, wait, it is isn't it? It's called a benefit. Us providers don't get paid benefits, but sheesh, we should get some sort of acknowledgment for the work we do. This job is so thankless. The kids are the only ones who even make a difference in our lives, and maybe the one or two parents that come and go that are decent. This is why I quit too! People are ungrateful especially when it comes to the care of their children which boggles my mind. A child should come FIRST, not last. If your child is sick or you don't have to work Christmas, how is that OUR fault? Why should WE sacrifice even MORE time with OUR families so you don't have to pay us? Why should WE be forced to work a day YOUR OWN employer gives you off? And if on the off chance that they don't, why do we HAVE to work? Why is it okay for YOU to get paid for sick time, vacation time, personal time, Holiday pay for NOT doing a job, but the same isn't okay for providers? You're not working, right? why should your employers offer to pay you? The COMPANY consists of OTHER PEOPLE!! It's like dumb is everywhere these days. It goes BOTH ways, so why should providers be screwed over? In-Home providers make NOTHING. Seriously, look at my taxes for 10 years, I made NOTHING. Your (general) kids should be much more important than MONEY! SHAME SHAME!
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Unregistered 11:44 AM 01-28-2012
Originally Posted by leadhead15717:
*Do you pay for a whole month of cable-even if you only watch it 24 days a month?
* Do you pay full price for your VCR if you only use it twice a week?
* Do you pay full price for your meal even if you don’t finish it?
* Do you pay the same rent/mortgage even when you are at work 5 days a week?
*Do you pay your full car payments if you only drive it a few days a month?
* Do you pay your whole cable bill if you only watch TV one day a week.

This list could go on but it amazes me that people can't grasp the concept when it comes to Day Care services.........
Or insurance you never use?

LOL

This is the PERFECT analogy, THANK YOU!
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MsMe 09:59 AM 01-30-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
If you want PAID holidays then get a job where you work for someone.... you own a day care so put your big boy pants on and understand what going in to businees means!!!
I know this is old AND from an unregistered....but I can't help but reply.


you have it COMPLETLEY backwards. As a business owner I can set up my Daycare as I please. I attract clients that read and AGREE to my contract and we are all very happy about it.
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TGPII 07:18 PM 04-13-2012
Originally Posted by Interested:
Is it legal to charge for day care for days the children are not at day care or days the day care close because of weather or holidays.
How are daycares closed due to bad weather? When I work at daycare the weather was bad elementary schools would be closed. So parents would scramble to send there elementary kids to daycare. So when had to be open! They did get charged extra, however parents knew that/this in advance.
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DaisyMamma 05:34 AM 04-14-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Yes it is legal.
Why should you get paid for holidays and not us?

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Unregistered 06:08 PM 05-04-2012
Please consider that only teachers get paid holidays not worked!!! The rest of us that have to clock in get paid by the hour, and with the economy the way it is most employers work a skeleton crew and you get sent home without pay, if teachers got paid like this life would be fair!!!
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saved4always 01:03 PM 05-05-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Please consider that only teachers get paid holidays not worked!!! The rest of us that have to clock in get paid by the hour, and with the economy the way it is most employers work a skeleton crew and you get sent home without pay, if teachers got paid like this life would be fair!!!
This is not true. Many other professions get paid holidays. I used to work for an insurance company and I did not work holidays but did get paid for them. My dh is in manufacturing and he and everyone else who works there gets off for the holidays and is paid. I am starting a new job and I will be hourly but I will also get paid holidays although we are closed on those days. I know that there are some jobs, many that are paid hourly, that do not get paid for the holidays if they are not working (i.e. fast food, retail, etc.). But, to say that, in general, only teachers get paid for holidays is just not accurate since there are many non-teachers who do get holiday pay when they have the day off.
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rakib 11:10 PM 05-05-2012
Why should you get paid for holiday and not us?????????
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Abigail 11:50 AM 05-06-2012
Wow, this thread should be locked. If people actually took the time to read the 3 pages of posts all their questions would be answered.
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Unregistered 11:52 AM 05-30-2012
As parents we do not employ daycare workers. Daycare centers employ daycare workers. Parents are paying customers and the daycare provides a service. Having said that, the business should be conducted as such. Just as in any other business, if you don't render a service, you don't get paid.
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Unregistered 01:57 PM 05-30-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
As parents we do not employ daycare workers. Daycare centers employ daycare workers. Parents are paying customers and the daycare provides a service. Having said that, the business should be conducted as such. Just as in any other business, if you don't render a service, you don't get paid.
If it is in my contract I do. Parents in my child care pay for the space NOT just the service.

There are hundreds of child cares out there.

Bottom line is that if you don't want to pay for the provider's vacation time or off days, then find one who doesn't ask you to.

But if you have one who asks you too and you sign it....stop complaining about it!!!!!
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MarinaVanessa 04:39 PM 05-30-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
As parents we do not employ daycare workers. Daycare centers employ daycare workers. Parents are paying customers and the daycare provides a service. Having said that, the business should be conducted as such. Just as in any other business, if you don't render a service, you don't get paid.
A gym provides a service, they provide their facility which allow you to work out on their machines, to take their special classes etc. These places also close for holidays. Members are paying customers who pay for a monthly service. This monthly fee is the same flat fee paid each month regardless of whether the gym is closed for a holiday or not. They don't render services for holidays and they still get paid.

Costco is another example. Members pay the same flat monthly fee to be able to shop in their store and the fee is not prorated when they have to close for holidays.
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saved4always 06:11 PM 05-30-2012
Originally Posted by MarinaVanessa:
A gym provides a service, they provide their facility which allow you to work out on their machines, to take their special classes etc. These places also close for holidays. Members are paying customers who pay for a monthly service. This monthly fee is the same flat fee paid each month regardless of whether the gym is closed for a holiday or not. They don't render services for holidays and they still get paid.

Costco is another example. Members pay the same flat monthly fee to be able to shop in their store and the fee is not prorated when they have to close for holidays.
Great way to explain it!
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Lyss 08:53 PM 05-30-2012
Originally Posted by MarinaVanessa:
A gym provides a service, they provide their facility which allow you to work out on their machines, to take their special classes etc. These places also close for holidays. Members are paying customers who pay for a monthly service. This monthly fee is the same flat fee paid each month regardless of whether the gym is closed for a holiday or not. They don't render services for holidays and they still get paid.

Costco is another example. Members pay the same flat monthly fee to be able to shop in their store and the fee is not prorated when they have to close for holidays.
GREAT explanation! (I'm gonna steal it btw!)
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Mom and Provider 01:38 PM 06-19-2012
Think about everything needed to take care of up to 10 kids a day. You need to think about toys/books, projects/activities, food, naps, everything needed to clean and organize.

Some people are lucky enough to have the money to start a daycare outside their home, but for those of us who are doing it to stay at home with our families and because we enjoy kids, we are sharing our home/business in one space. It also means all of our furniture is getting used more than before.

Most Daycares aren't able to fill all their spots, so we depend the income of our contracted families. So when you decide to take a day off, we still need to get paid because that is our only income. However, I don't believe in charging for major holidays like memorial day, labor day, thanksgiving, and christmas because these are days that we are most likely not caring for children and not all parents get holidays off. Plus I wouldn't charge for a holiday that falls on a day the child wouldn't normally be here. I don't believe in charging for vacations I take either or if I have to take a sick day.

Most of us are giving 10-12 hrs day to care for children, which what your paying may seem like a lot, but after all the costs of supplies and taxes, it's not as much as you think.

I have used several daycares in the past, most of which didn't charge for holidays either, and until I started my own I didn't realize what the providers do on a daily basis. Granted, it is rewarding working with kids, but you also have to think about the fact that not all kids are angels either.

So before you get upset about prices, holidays, and ect... think about how much work the provider does and the lack of breaks.
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Babybear911 02:07 PM 06-21-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Originally Posted by Unregistered
Exactly my thoughts *Interested*
"Sometimes I think parents whine more than children. You are paying for the slot, not for the hour. If you want it spelled out.... you have a yearly flat rate. It is broken down for your convenience. Or would you rather pay by the year?? The only thing to change this is what the policy makes exceptions to. Have you ever heard of salary pay? No matter how many hours you work, it is a flat pay. It is the same principle. Got a problem? Start your own day care and see what we are talking about, then maybe you would understand better. If we catered to everyones whims, we would watch your precious for free 24/7. "

My, you sound like a provider who really doesn't like parents or children... Maybe time to find a new profession? I am a healthcare professional and think it is completely fair to provide my childcare provider for the same paid holidays that most other professionals receive.. These would be Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc.. But, we had one who wanted paid time off for every school vacation day, including the 2 weeks off at Christmas paid! This is an extreme hardship on parents who must pay "double" and find someone else to cover those days. Many of these parents aren't lucky enough to be getting ANY paid holidays of their own... Of the ones who are, only parents who happen to be school teachers are getting as many paid holidays as this childcare provider. (We found someone new). If this woman wants so many paid holidays she should go back to college and get a teaching degree.
Looking after other peoples children is rewarding and a lot of work. You should have appreciated that your daycare provider was taking time off to re-energize their body, mind and spirit. There is a reaon teachers get that many days off a year as well...to have the love and patience that is needed to care for young children one needs to have time off! Why would caring for babies, toddlers, and pre-kinders be any different! I would be fearful of any daycare that doesn't take vacation. Example......Just imagine how grumpy, mean, and impatient they are when YOU are not around! I actually bumped into gruff daycare lady at the beach last week. My kids are all playing, digging, laughing and being kids...the other daycare lady's kids wre playing too. She snapped about 4 times at a 2 year old and told him to "grow up" and then dragged the other little boy in a rag over throwing sand. Which is exactly what ALL kids do...instead of being calm she flipped out! I was mortified! I couldn't take it anymore and spoke up and said to her "sounds like you need a vacation". She said she doesn't take vacations for her parents! Really?? Wow! So instead she is mean, sharp tongued, rude and aggressive with their children instead! Do you think she behaves that way when the prents around???? Seriously ask yourself that question! I would NEVER want my kids in her daycare! My babies get love, cuddles, patience and support each day and YES I take vacation! Including 2 weeks off at Chirstmas! It's called family time for my daycare parents and for my family! It benefits everyone, especially the children!
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Unregistered 11:01 AM 07-05-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Exactly my thoughts *Interested*
Sometimes I think parents whine more than children. You are paying for the slot, not for the hour. If you want it spelled out.... you have a yearly flat rate. It is broken down for your convenience. Or would you rather pay by the year?? The only thing to change this is what the policy makes exceptions to. Have you ever heard of salary pay? No matter how many hours you work, it is a flat pay. It is the same principle. Got a problem? Start your own day care and see what we are talking about, then maybe you would understand better. If we catered to everyones whims, we would watch your precious for free 24/7.
What a b*tch. Hope to goodness you never have children. It's a business in that one should not have to pay for services not rendered. If my doctor goes out of turn and consequently I can't see him in the office, do I still pay him? No, he doesn't get paid for not doing work not does he get paid holidays.

You are a piece of work. Some people work holidays and don't get paid any special pay. It's a capital expense that should be taken out of the conpany's resources not the moms that pay holidays and then have to turn around and double pay another sitter while they have to work holidays. I don't even understand the point of holidays, in healthcare I have to work every holiday so what makes day care so special that they automatically get the day off? Kids still need to be looked after, some times I think business owners and day care workers whine more than the kids do.
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Truly Scrumptious 02:23 PM 07-05-2012
New families interested in enrollment in my program have to go through a 3 Step Interview. The first interview is for parents only. It's after day care hours and can last anywhere from 2-3 hours. I have a guideline I use to make sure and discuss EVERY rule including fees and I make sure and give scenerios to help them fully understand. They are given a list of all paid/closed holidays and vacations, a short resume with references, an example of a monthly calendar, and an outline of the yearly themed curriculum I use. (Contracts and Policies are not even brought out at this time).
The second part of the interview is for the parents and the child during day care hours. It's for just relaxing and getting to know each other to see if we are a fit.
The third part of the interview is when we both have decided that enrollement is a good idea. Again the third interview is for parents only (I don't want any distractions). We sit down together and go over and sign Contracts and Policies.
This process gives parents plenty of time to think about everthing that they have seen and heard and decide if they agree with and will abide by all of the rules. I always remind parents that if they don't agree for any reason, then they should walk away, otherwise it will affect our relationship and they won't be here long.
It's important to make sure all information is given upfront so problems later on are less likely to happen.
So, however you decide to run your business is up to you. You set your fees, your hours, your time off etc....all providers are different. Parents can choose what works best for them.
But, parents don't have to the right to change rules when it suits them just because they want a particular provider to care for their child or because the other providers they had to choose from didn't measure up. (Parent's want the choice of: "Hey I pick you because your the best, but I don't really like or agree with all your rules. Oh, but I'm coming here for sure. So, I'll just be your worst nightmare for as long as you allow it....you see, I'm selfish like that").
Bottom line is this...My House (or Day Care) My Rules! I tell parents that I am the boss of my day care and that they are the boss of their child. As the boss of my day care, I make the rules and will not change them to suit parents..as the boss of their child, if they don't like the rules, they get to decide whether to stay or go, but they don't get to tell me what to do.
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Unregistered 12:07 PM 08-20-2012
Originally Posted by momofboys:
Most teachers get a paid salary. So when they are sick they still get paid, if they have a snow day they do have to make the day up in some instances but they still get paid the same amount regardless of how much or how little they work that week. Usually their payment is spread out over the whole year. No disrespect to teachers, there are 2 in my family & I know when school is in session it's a lot of work but considering they have 7-8 weeks off in the summer (usually longer than this but I know they also have prep work to do before school starts) & usually 2 weeks at Christmas that is pretty good pay for not working.
So indirectly they are still paid. When there is a snow day they don't deduct a day of pay. I'm pretty sure teachers' unions would not permit that!

My daughter is a teacher and her salary is for the days worked, not breaks such as Summer. They can choose to receive a paycheck only when working or spread it out over the whole calendar year, which makes each paycheck smaller but gives income all year long.
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Unregistered 10:50 PM 08-28-2012
Originally Posted by CharlesReese:
I personally don't own a day care, nor do I ever plan on it. However, I do understand that it is a business, but any business should know what is ethical and unethical or does anyone have a conscious these days.

After reading some of the post that had been written some time ago, I wonder how you think you should be paid for holidays and for inclement weather when you don’t watch children.

My problem is this, if you watch a child then you should be paid for those services. If you don’t then there should be no charge. My wife and I have to deal with her brother and his wife. They don’t have a day care, but they sure do operate their home like it is. (Of course there home can be treated as such.)

Earning my Master’s and learning more and more about businesses and how they operate helps me understand what is ethical and not ethical. So again let me ask the question, why should daycare’s be paid for services not rendered for bad weather, holidays, or when children can be watched by their parents?

Just saying, “you get paid holidays why shouldn’t we” is not an valid argument.

It’s dishonest to charge parents when you don’t watch children. I do agree that policies should be up front and in writing. But again are your policies honest? If they are, then I’m sure parents will enjoy doing business with you, if not your probably still going to have that migraine.

Companies still have to take out federal income tax, state income tax, health care fees, retirement, S.S. fees, and disability. Of course some of these are mandatory while others are voluntarily. So as a daycare are you doing all of this? Do you offer retirement for your employees, paid holidays, paid time off, and sick leave?

Again, why should parents pay a daycare for services they didn’t provide?

If someone on this blog can give me an honest and valid argument then maybe you can persuade me to understand why you should be paid for services not provided?
Hello, In Texas a license home daycare can only take care up to 12 children. You are counting to have every week for sure 12 kids so that is why people talk about saving a spot. Why? because if someone pays as they go and they decide not to send their child for that week then how the daycare make the money on that week for that child or spot ( cause remember they only can take care up to 12 NO MORE than that) so if the daycare have a waiting list of children waiting to get that spot and other kids are miss using the spot the daycare facility is losing money and other child that may be using that spot every week of the year is losing a place to being care. For example if you own an airplane don't you wish to have every single seat fill with a passenger? exactly that's the same with a daycare specially the one's that the state only allows them to have an x amount of kids and that's all. Also remember to break down the weekly rate by hours then it is between $2 to $4 an hour ans that's below the minimum wage. I bet you you wouldn't work for that? well the parents should have that in consideration. A daycare is like a second home. How much is the first home worth? how much is the second home for the child worth? good question!
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Unregistered 10:58 AM 08-30-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
So you having the education that you do........you do understand how salary pay works right! My daycare is a flat rate on a yearly bases and you can either pay by the year, month or i break it down for you on a weekly basis, which is how most parents pay. I pay my taxes every year just like you do. And i have no employees, its just me, I work 6 days a week and sometimes 18 hours a day! I have dedicated my life to caring for and teaching other peoples children and i think that entitles me to some paid days off! Whether it be a hoilday or not. Not to mention by law i can take up to 10 paid days off a year! Oh but please understand I'm not trying to persuade you into understanding this! But this is a business and i run it as such! Understand this........what would you think if your boss called and said , well don't come in for the next week we don't have any customers to service and oh by the way were not going to pay you for that week either! Would you be ok with that?
I bet you don't give gifts or bonuses or thank you cards to the person taking care of your child either. Maybe you need education on morals. Family Child Care Providers work hard and are very underpaid so I agree that they should be paid and even get special thank yous from time to time to let them know you appreciate the care they give. If you put them in a facility you will be paying holidays and even extra fees.
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BABYLUVER 05:17 PM 09-16-2012
I suggest that whoever believes this should NEVER take any sick time paid, NEVER take holiday pay for days they don't work, and NEVER take a paid vacation at work.

How about you give the same courtesies your employer gives you at your job to the person who takes care of your IRREPLACEABLE child? If it's okay for YOU to accept money for time you don't work, then yes, it should be acceptable for you to pay your daycare provider for holidays and any time your child misses because YOU chose not to bring him/her.

Children should be first priority and not put second. If you want great care, sometimes you have to pay for it. IF you don't like it, go somewhere else!
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MarinaVanessa 08:18 AM 09-17-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
What a b*tch. Hope to goodness you never have children. It's a business in that one should not have to pay for services not rendered. If my doctor goes out of turn and consequently I can't see him in the office, do I still pay him? No, he doesn't get paid for not doing work not does he get paid holidays.

You are a piece of work. Some people work holidays and don't get paid any special pay. It's a capital expense that should be taken out of the conpany's resources not the moms that pay holidays and then have to turn around and double pay another sitter while they have to work holidays. I don't even understand the point of holidays, in healthcare I have to work every holiday so what makes day care so special that they automatically get the day off? Kids still need to be looked after, some times I think business owners and day care workers whine more than the kids do.
People such as Dr's prepare for holidays and vacations by including payment for these into their fees. In other words, they charge enough to be able to close for holidays and vacations. I have a couple of friends that are Dr's and they have discussed how they can go on vacations so often.

Also think about phone companies, internet providers, gym memberships etc. You pay a flat service whether or not you use these. If you go on vacation do you call and tell your phone company not to charge you because you were only home 3 weeks out of 4? Do you ask your internet provider to prorate you for the days you don't actually use the internet? Would you ask your gym for a refund if you only went to the gym 4 days out of 31? The beauty about this business is that we, as child care providers, is that we can run our businesses in a way that works best for us and you, as a parent, can choose a childcare provider based on whether you agree with their policies or not. If you don't like it you can simply not sign up with that provider. No need turn to violent communication like name calling to express your opinions.

I hope to goodness that your children (if any) are being watched for by your family or a close friend. Otherwise I feel very bad for your child care provider.
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cheerfuldom 10:36 AM 09-17-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
My daughter is a teacher and her salary is for the days worked, not breaks such as Summer. They can choose to receive a paycheck only when working or spread it out over the whole calendar year, which makes each paycheck smaller but gives income all year long.
totally different scenario. your daughter receives benefits and other perks from her job that most daycare providers do not receive, in addition to a higher paycheck and she is paid by the state, not by the individual parents. daycare providers have to consider that any or all parents can leave at any time....leaving them high and dry with no income. lastly, your daughter took this job knowing full well the pay arrangement. parents are not held hostage to a daycare. 95% of providers will require a signed contract so its not like parents dont know what is going on when a paid holiday comes up. If a parent does not want to pay for any day that services are not rendered, they need to keep looking for a provider that allows that, not expect a provider (and owner of a private business) to revamp everything to their preferences.
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Unregistered 09:50 AM 10-23-2012
Originally Posted by A mom:
Our daycare provider charges only for the days my daughter is physically there so long as we tell them by the Sunday evening of that particular week. So we do not pay for holidays, we do not pay for our vacations, and we don't pay for any days I know in advance that she won't be there. They use this open communication system of scheduling to give their caretakers more flexibility in their own schedules. So no, not all providers charge for the "slot." Some actually charge for the care that is provided.
Let me tell u....chances are your "provider" is not certified. Anyone who has gone through state or military certification would not be that flexable. Maybe you should find someone who is certified and knows what they are doing with your child. Nothing annoys me more then someone looking for the best "deal" for childcare. It shouldn't be about the money when your looking for someone that is going to care for your children more in a day then the parent does. It should be based upon credentials, certification, years experience as well as any refrences they may have. Please people don't choose on money along, cheapest is NEVER best! Said from someone with 13 years of experience who has had many people drive out of their way to my home to keep their kids here, and to have peace of mind when going to work that their baby will be very well taken care of.
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Unregistered 08:26 AM 11-07-2012
You guys have taken this away from the original question. The question is holidays and the daycare CHOOSING to be closed those days. I don't get paid holidays so that point is nul and void. Not everyone gets them. What makes daycare so special that you get them? So I am now out the money for daycare and I am forced to not work which I am now also out that money. If my store closes due to in-climate weather I do not get paid. I can understand why daycare does for this reason though as it is noones fault that you were forced to close. However your CHOICE to be closed on a holiday is just that your CHOICE not to render a service causing me to have to not work and not get paid. I still have ALL the same bills while the daycare does not yet they still get paid. You are all taking this point and saying that why shouldn't I get a paid holiday when everyone else does? That is such a false statement it pisses me off. I don't know ANYONE that gets paid for 2 days on thanksgiving, 3 days on xmas and 2 days for new years! NO ONE! Teachers are the exception as they get all kinds of holidays off but I would be willing to bet that the higher majority of working americans DO NOT get that many paid holidays and you are putting a terrible hardship on the parents when you are closed forcing them to either double pay for child care or miss work all together. My gripe is only about the holiday part.

I know if I miss a day of work i don't get paid. Why do you? If you want xmas paid fine. If you want thanksgiving paid fine. But WHY THE DAYS AFTER?? Also my daycare goes one step higher to really screw over parents. If the holiday happens to fall on sat they close on friday, If it falls on sun they close MON!!! HOW DOES THAT MAKE SENSE!!!
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momofsix 11:02 AM 11-07-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Let me tell u....chances are your "provider" is not certified. Anyone who has gone through state or military certification would not be that flexable. Maybe you should find someone who is certified and knows what they are doing with your child. Nothing annoys me more then someone looking for the best "deal" for childcare. It shouldn't be about the money when your looking for someone that is going to care for your children more in a day then the parent does. It should be based upon credentials, certification, years experience as well as any refrences they may have. Please people don't choose on money along, cheapest is NEVER best! Said from someone with 13 years of experience who has had many people drive out of their way to my home to keep their kids here, and to have peace of mind when going to work that their baby will be very well taken care of.
Wow I'm a licensed provider. I've been doing child care for 21 years. I don't charge when the kids aren't here. It's just the way I choose do do it.
That's not why people choose me for their provider-I have an awesome reputation, but I have had parents tell me that they do appreciate the fact that they don't HAVE to pay when their child isn't here. (sometimes they pay anyhow-but it's voluntary.)

Having said that, if a parent signs a contract agreeing to pay for holidays and days the center is closed then they should pay up and stop complaining.
They agreed to it when they signed the contract.
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EntropyControlSpecialist 11:20 AM 11-07-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
You guys have taken this away from the original question. The question is holidays and the daycare CHOOSING to be closed those days. I don't get paid holidays so that point is nul and void. Not everyone gets them. What makes daycare so special that you get them? So I am now out the money for daycare and I am forced to not work which I am now also out that money. If my store closes due to in-climate weather I do not get paid. I can understand why daycare does for this reason though as it is noones fault that you were forced to close. However your CHOICE to be closed on a holiday is just that your CHOICE not to render a service causing me to have to not work and not get paid. I still have ALL the same bills while the daycare does not yet they still get paid. You are all taking this point and saying that why shouldn't I get a paid holiday when everyone else does? That is such a false statement it pisses me off. I don't know ANYONE that gets paid for 2 days on thanksgiving, 3 days on xmas and 2 days for new years! NO ONE! Teachers are the exception as they get all kinds of holidays off but I would be willing to bet that the higher majority of working americans DO NOT get that many paid holidays and you are putting a terrible hardship on the parents when you are closed forcing them to either double pay for child care or miss work all together. My gripe is only about the holiday part.

I know if I miss a day of work i don't get paid. Why do you? If you want xmas paid fine. If you want thanksgiving paid fine. But WHY THE DAYS AFTER?? Also my daycare goes one step higher to really screw over parents. If the holiday happens to fall on sat they close on friday, If it falls on sun they close MON!!! HOW DOES THAT MAKE SENSE!!!
Your bitterness and rage over these matters make me sad. Life is too short.

Providers do not have policies and paid holidays in order to screw over the parents nor do they sit around thinking about how they can "really screw over parents."
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Country Kids 11:32 AM 11-07-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
You guys have taken this away from the original question. The question is holidays and the daycare CHOOSING to be closed those days. I don't get paid holidays so that point is nul and void. Not everyone gets them. What makes daycare so special that you get them? So I am now out the money for daycare and I am forced to not work which I am now also out that money. If my store closes due to in-climate weather I do not get paid. I can understand why daycare does for this reason though as it is noones fault that you were forced to close. However your CHOICE to be closed on a holiday is just that your CHOICE not to render a service causing me to have to not work and not get paid. I still have ALL the same bills while the daycare does not yet they still get paid. You are all taking this point and saying that why shouldn't I get a paid holiday when everyone else does? That is such a false statement it pisses me off. I don't know ANYONE that gets paid for 2 days on thanksgiving, 3 days on xmas and 2 days for new years! NO ONE! Teachers are the exception as they get all kinds of holidays off but I would be willing to bet that the higher majority of working americans DO NOT get that many paid holidays and you are putting a terrible hardship on the parents when you are closed forcing them to either double pay for child care or miss work all together. My gripe is only about the holiday part.

I know if I miss a day of work i don't get paid. Why do you? If you want xmas paid fine. If you want thanksgiving paid fine. But WHY THE DAYS AFTER?? Also my daycare goes one step higher to really screw over parents. If the holiday happens to fall on sat they close on friday, If it falls on sun they close MON!!! HOW DOES THAT MAKE SENSE!!!
I have 12 children I watch-11 Families

All but 1 family will have the day after Veterans day off-November 12. The actual holiday is Sunday November 11 but it will be observed on MONDAY November 12.

Oh, did I mention they will all be paid for it-
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Blackcat31 12:17 PM 11-07-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
You guys have taken this away from the original question. The question is holidays and the daycare CHOOSING to be closed those days. I don't get paid holidays so that point is nul and void. Not everyone gets them. What makes daycare so special that you get them? So I am now out the money for daycare and I am forced to not work which I am now also out that money. If my store closes due to in-climate weather I do not get paid. I can understand why daycare does for this reason though as it is noones fault that you were forced to close. However your CHOICE to be closed on a holiday is just that your CHOICE not to render a service causing me to have to not work and not get paid. I still have ALL the same bills while the daycare does not yet they still get paid. You are all taking this point and saying that why shouldn't I get a paid holiday when everyone else does? That is such a false statement it pisses me off. I don't know ANYONE that gets paid for 2 days on thanksgiving, 3 days on xmas and 2 days for new years! NO ONE! Teachers are the exception as they get all kinds of holidays off but I would be willing to bet that the higher majority of working americans DO NOT get that many paid holidays and you are putting a terrible hardship on the parents when you are closed forcing them to either double pay for child care or miss work all together. My gripe is only about the holiday part.

I know if I miss a day of work i don't get paid. Why do you? If you want xmas paid fine. If you want thanksgiving paid fine. But WHY THE DAYS AFTER?? Also my daycare goes one step higher to really screw over parents. If the holiday happens to fall on sat they close on friday, If it falls on sun they close MON!!! HOW DOES THAT MAKE SENSE!!!


Daycares are privately owned businesses. They are free to set or make any policy/rule they would like.

You are also free to make a choice. You can choose to use whatever daycare you wish to use.

No one forces you to sign or agree to anything.

If you don't like having to pay for a providers holidays or days off, then find one that doesn't charge for those things.

It REALLY is that simple.
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Unregistered 01:08 PM 11-15-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Yes it is legal.
Why should you get paid for holidays and not us?
Daycare employees should get paid for holiday leave....by their boss, by the owner. I pay the owner, the owner pays his/her empoyees. I wouldnt pay for a pair of pants that wasnt available and that i wasnt receiving. If you want parents to pay you on federal holidays then offer a service to be paid for. I'm tired of hearing about "we have bills". yes and as a businiess that sells daycare you should be paid for providing daycare, not for not providing daycare. That's ridiculous. Why are you entitled to my money that i work for when you arent working?
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Crystal 02:19 PM 11-15-2012
I understand the parent's complaints about having to pay for child care when they are not using it, really I do. However, I also understand the providers' side of this.

As a provider who DOES charge for holidays, as well as a week of vacation and four floating holidays of my choice, I must say that in 16 years I have never been questioned about it. Here is why:

I provide a very high quality program, spending a significant amount of my "income" on my program, (MUCH more than I do on myself or family)

I work 12+ hours per day (up at 5:00, working in the playroom preparing for the days activities and cleaning the restrooms, mopping floors, etc. by 5:30, open doors at 7:00-sometimes earlier if needed - for FREE- work until 5:30-6:00-sometimes later if needed-for free - then clean up and shut down until 6:30-7:00) I don't get paid overtime.

I NEVER take a sick day, (really, 3 in 16 years and those were major emergencies)

I provde mildly ill child care - so if your child has a virus that most providers would require her to stay home for AND charge you for it, they can stay with me so you don't miss work (this is provided in another area, away from well children)

I offer alot of "extras" for my families, such as I do not charge late fees if a parent calls and says they are running a little late to pick up (who works late without getting paid for it? Providers do) open early if needed, plan weekend outings with families that I pay for, etc.

I charge less than the average rate for my area and do not charge more for infants just because they are infants.

I spend upwards of 600+ hours per year participating in training and school so that I can be the BEST provider for your children....time taken away from my own family and money as well, because no one else pays for my education. Many of my Saturdays and Sundays (two weekends per month) I am in school from 9-5

I am very active in the child care community, advocate for parents and children and provide resources for my families that they otherwise would not know about.

I am SUPER dependable.....my parents KNOW that if they are scheduled to be here, I will, without fail, be here and be READY for their children.

I could go on and on and on.....but my point is MANY (and I dare say most here) do all of the same things I do, and we do it with a SMILE, because we love your children and we love our work. All we ask for in return is a little respect, a timely "paycheck" and a few measley holidays off to spend with our own families.

I am very privileged to have the families I have. They VALUE having me as their provider, and the HAPPILY pay me for extra days off AND give me GREAT Holiday Bonuses as well! If they treated me with the disdain that some of the parents here have expressed, well, they'd be losing out on a great thing, because I would absolutley REFUSE to work with a parent who did not value my work with their children enough to pay for a few holiday closures.
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daycare 02:45 PM 11-15-2012
Crystal very well said

I have my prices built into the days off. I have a flat monthly fee. There is no discount for these days, unless you want to pay me more money out of pocket each month, I take away all of your paid days off and I charge you a flat weekly rate instead.

MV- also another great way to look at it..

I tell families when they interview that it's much like paying to rent a home. The landlord does not discount your rent if you decide to go on vacation for a few days, the rent is due in full if you were in your home one day or 30 days. If you want to have your home to come back to when you are gone, you need to secure it with on time payments.

I really don't see why any one would argue this?? Really is having a few paid days off a year so bad to give to the people who take care of your pride and JOY?? It's not like I'm watching your gold fish.........................
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Blackcat31 02:55 PM 11-15-2012

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daycare 02:57 PM 11-15-2012
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I think I pee my pants laughing!!!!!!!!!!
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MyAngels 06:29 PM 11-15-2012
I'm always reminded of this whenever this thread pops up again....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xz6OGVCdov8
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MamaBearCanada 07:54 AM 11-16-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Daycare employees should get paid for holiday leave....by their boss, by the owner. I pay the owner, the owner pays his/her empoyees. I wouldnt pay for a pair of pants that wasnt available and that i wasnt receiving. If you want parents to pay you on federal holidays then offer a service to be paid for. I'm tired of hearing about "we have bills". yes and as a businiess that sells daycare you should be paid for providing daycare, not for not providing daycare. That's ridiculous. Why are you entitled to my money that i work for when you arent working?
A lot of us are our own boss and the owner with no employees. You agree that workers should get paid for holidays, so there are 2 ways this happens:

1. We charge for those days as paid holidays
2. We close "unpaid" but average out the cost of those days over the other days to increase the daily rate when we are open.
Either way over the course of a year you would have paid the same amount.

If you don't like it - don't sign a contract agreeing to it. Choose somewhere else. No-one is forcing you to do something you don't want to do.

A pair of pants is a retail not service industry example. We provide a service based upon a yearly or monthly service not daily contract that is why holidays are included - like a gym membership. If you want daily service so you don't have to pay for holidays be prepared to pay the higher daily rate... Which is really version 2 of the above example.
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Country Kids 08:21 AM 11-16-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Daycare employees should get paid for holiday leave....by their boss, by the owner. I pay the owner, the owner pays his/her empoyees. I wouldnt pay for a pair of pants that wasnt available and that i wasnt receiving. If you want parents to pay you on federal holidays then offer a service to be paid for. I'm tired of hearing about "we have bills". yes and as a businiess that sells daycare you should be paid for providing daycare, not for not providing daycare. That's ridiculous. Why are you entitled to my money that i work for when you arent working?
I'm self employed so I am the boss. So you pay me and I pay myself if you want to look at it that way.

Are you in a job with holiday/vacation pay? Why should your boss pay you, when you aren't working? Same concept as us.

Any job that has holiday pay has a boss that is paying workers to have the day off. Its really not unheard of or a new concept in the working industry.
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Blackcat31 08:34 AM 11-16-2012
First...I think providers should STOP trying to reason with people who do not agree that we should charge for holidays or vacation time.

If parents do not want to pay the person who cares for their child for holidays/vacation time when daycare closed then they don't have to.

There are plenty of providers out there that don't charge for those things.

I also am having issue with providers who are using the "Well my parents get paid vacation time or paid holidays, then so should I/we" explanation.

Yeah, well Billy got a cupcake and I didn't ....same thing!!!
Using that logic to defend your policies is not at all professional IMPO.

Honestly...who care who gets paid what and when....NOT our business any more than it is the parents business as to why we have the policies we have.

Bottom line is find a provider who has policies you can abide by and policies that work for you, your child and your family.

If you spend any amount of time on this board you can see there are hundreds of providers here who ALL do things differently than the others.

FIND ONE WHO WORKS FOR YOU AND STOP COMPLAINING ABOUT FAIRNESS!!!! LIFE IS NOT FAIR....DON'T SIGN ON WITH A PROGRAM YOU DON'T AGREE WITH!!!

It really is that simple!!

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Meeko 09:31 AM 11-16-2012
Good grief...some parents never fail to amaze me with their cheapness.

They want the best car they can afford. They want the best house they can afford. They want the biggest, best TV they can afford.

Then...they want the cheapest day care they can possibly find.

They expect great care for a cheap price. They expect "special" treatment of their little angel. They expect their provider to be up at dawn and to be cheerful all day. Day and in and day out. She is to be kind and courteous. She is to be happy and gentle. She is expected to put up with lateness, rudeness, and being taken for granted by her clients.

And she is to do all this without a paid break? She is never to burn out? Never get tired? Never take a break she can actually afford? She is to be available constantly?

These parents whine and moan about giving the person who loves and cares for their child even one day's paid leave.

Yet they pay their gym membership each month, whether they use it daily or not. They pay their cable bill, whether they watch TV daily or not. They pay their mortgage or rent even though they aren't in the home 24/7. They pay their car payment even if they don't drive it. They pay their internet bill even if they don't turn on the computer once during the whole month.

They do it willingly for those things....but not for the person they should have the most gratitude and respect for. The one taking care of their child. The one who has the ENORMOUS responsibility of caring for that child for more hours than the parent does. The one who is shaping their child and teaching them life skills. The one who feeds them well and hugs and loves them.

Yet she doesn't deserve a paid day off?

These same parents will tip their hair stylist, tip their waiter, tip their mail carrier etc etc.....yet feel their day care provider doesn't deserve diddly.

These same parents would be upset if their own boss made snide comments about giving them a few paid holidays....and did his best to make them feel guilty for having any time off at all.

I do this job because I love children and I love being home with my own family.

I SOOOO wish I could do it without some of the parents.

I am lucky enough to have some wonderful clients.

I take some paid time off and some unpaid too. I have clients who INSIST on paying me for the unpaid ones too because they want me to know how much they appreciate me.

Then there's the others who feel I should be open Christmas Day if they want me to be and I'm such a burden to them because they have to pay for that day.

Makes me sad there are so many ungrateful people in the world.
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Unregistered 08:04 AM 12-10-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Originally Posted by Unregistered
Exactly my thoughts *Interested*
"Sometimes I think parents whine more than children. You are paying for the slot, not for the hour. If you want it spelled out.... you have a yearly flat rate. It is broken down for your convenience. Or would you rather pay by the year?? The only thing to change this is what the policy makes exceptions to. Have you ever heard of salary pay? No matter how many hours you work, it is a flat pay. It is the same principle. Got a problem? Start your own day care and see what we are talking about, then maybe you would understand better. If we catered to everyones whims, we would watch your precious for free 24/7. "

My, you sound like a provider who really doesn't like parents or children... Maybe time to find a new profession? I am a healthcare professional and think it is completely fair to provide my childcare provider for the same paid holidays that most other professionals receive.. These would be Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc.. But, we had one who wanted paid time off for every school vacation day, including the 2 weeks off at Christmas paid! This is an extreme hardship on parents who must pay "double" and find someone else to cover those days. Many of these parents aren't lucky enough to be getting ANY paid holidays of their own... Of the ones who are, only parents who happen to be school teachers are getting as many paid holidays as this childcare provider. (We found someone new). If this woman wants so many paid holidays she should go back to college and get a teaching degree.
I couldn't have agreed MORE with this post. The lady above sounds COMPLETELY ridiculous! If you want all of those days off, then you do need a job that will require you to take those days off. And if you need so much vacation, then that's a sign that you really don't love what you do. You are CLEARLY in the wrong profession. I'm pissed about having to pay my provider full tuition for vacation days that neither my husband (GOVERNMENT WORKER) nor myself (corporate) receive. That's crazy! I should not have to accommodate your wants and needs. If you require "vacation days" that needs to be in the contract from the beginning. My provider not only took every holiday off, but also closed early some Fridays and took off a few days throughout the year for family vacation. Really? I haven't been able to take one because I have to use my vacation days to accommodate her schedule. I thought that daycares were in the business to do the opposite. Time to start looking for a new one. I shouldn't have to pay her to only work 4 days out of two weeks.
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kitykids3 06:02 PM 12-12-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
I couldn't have agreed MORE with this post. The lady above sounds COMPLETELY ridiculous! If you want all of those days off, then you do need a job that will require you to take those days off. And if you need so much vacation, then that's a sign that you really don't love what you do. You are CLEARLY in the wrong profession. I'm pissed about having to pay my provider full tuition for vacation days that neither my husband (GOVERNMENT WORKER) nor myself (corporate) receive. That's crazy! I should not have to accommodate your wants and needs. If you require "vacation days" that needs to be in the contract from the beginning. My provider not only took every holiday off, but also closed early some Fridays and took off a few days throughout the year for family vacation. Really? I haven't been able to take one because I have to use my vacation days to accommodate her schedule. I thought that daycares were in the business to do the opposite. Time to start looking for a new one. I shouldn't have to pay her to only work 4 days out of two weeks.
What? Daycares are supposed to accomodate to your schedule??
Ha! Since when does the public get to tell a business what hours they should be open/provide service?? No way would I be letting clients tell me what hours I should be open. Plus, if they want to change their contracted hours (whether for a week or permanently) then they ask if it is OK and if I have the resources to do so.
Granted, this isn't to say I don't do what I can as far as scheduling with the parents, but I would not have a daycare family as a client that EXPECTED me to accommodate their schedule or all their whims.
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Unregistered 05:18 AM 12-29-2012
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Do you get paid for your holidays? please consider that we have to pay the daycare staff for holidays too! Your getting paid for your holiday and you get the day with your child, huge bonus. If we are to keep our center open we have to have a pro rated system where by the year is broken down to daily manageble amounts. If this did not happen the fee's generally would be higher. Enjoy the holidays with your little one your being paid for it.
know I work for the school baord and we dont get paid for the holidays like people think when we do work we get part of the money we make each month and a percentage gets taken from that so the check is the same every month but its money I worked for on a different day. WE DO NOT GET PAID FOR HOLIDAYS and very few people do most that have a degree does not get paid for the holidays. Ive worked for child care and owned my own day care and you should not charge when you are closed period.
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Unregistered 06:07 AM 01-07-2013
Originally Posted by AC23:
For instance a home provider may charge for arguement sake $200 a week for up to 50 hours a week. That breaks down to $4.00 an hour. Gee that means more than worth it. I think most people under estimate what goes into child care profession along with the importance of this area. what price tag are you willing to put on your child? I know I wouldn't think twice about paying that or more for my infant.
Your calculations are soooo wrong... $200.00 would be PER CHILD! And, in most states in- home providers can keep up to six alone. That would be $1200.00 a week and more like $24.00 an hour.
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Unregistered Alabama 07:25 AM 03-25-2013
I am very disappointed at all of you. post a link on here that shows its legal for daycares to do this to parents and we will shut up. While you are all complaining about parents what about parents like me working three jobs trying to keep my home, make sure my child has food on the table, and then the days your closed for I have to waste my time and money looking for someone to care for my child or taking time off which means I loose money...you negative nillies dont care about that. Yeah we want to make sure our kids have good care. but you are all strangers to us so take care of our kids and quit your whining or find another profession. not everyone has the luxury of going back to school to become a jerk like you.
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Angelwings36 07:59 AM 03-25-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered Alabama:
I am very disappointed at all of you. post a link on here that shows its legal for daycares to do this to parents and we will shut up. While you are all complaining about parents what about parents like me working three jobs trying to keep my home, make sure my child has food on the table, and then the days your closed for I have to waste my time and money looking for someone to care for my child or taking time off which means I loose money...you negative nillies dont care about that. Yeah we want to make sure our kids have good care. but you are all strangers to us so take care of our kids and quit your whining or find another profession. not everyone has the luxury of going back to school to become a jerk like you.
Two things:

1. Show me it's illegal for provider's to charge for their holiday time.

2. Some provider's are struggling just like you are. If you don't like paying your provider for her time off find another provider that doesn't charge for her holidays.
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MissAnn 08:01 AM 03-25-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered Alabama:
I am very disappointed at all of you. post a link on here that shows its legal for daycares to do this to parents and we will shut up. While you are all complaining about parents what about parents like me working three jobs trying to keep my home, make sure my child has food on the table, and then the days your closed for I have to waste my time and money looking for someone to care for my child or taking time off which means I loose money...you negative nillies dont care about that. Yeah we want to make sure our kids have good care. but you are all strangers to us so take care of our kids and quit your whining or find another profession. not everyone has the luxury of going back to school to become a jerk like you.
Just did my taxes. Once again I did not make minimum wage. Sorry, but I think I deserve a few vacation days as well as holiday pay. There is no link that will tell holiday pay is legal. It's in our policy that you either accept or not accept. If you don't agree, you either need to hire a babysitter or someone who does charge for vacations or holidays. Simple that.
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MarinaVanessa 08:49 AM 03-25-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
Yes it goes on and on my friend ...
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Crystal 01:59 PM 03-25-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered Alabama:
I am very disappointed at all of you. post a link on here that shows its legal for daycares to do this to parents and we will shut up. While you are all complaining about parents what about parents like me working three jobs trying to keep my home, make sure my child has food on the table, and then the days your closed for I have to waste my time and money looking for someone to care for my child or taking time off which means I loose money...you negative nillies dont care about that. Yeah we want to make sure our kids have good care. but you are all strangers to us so take care of our kids and quit your whining or find another profession. not everyone has the luxury of going back to school to become a jerk like you.
http://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/is...uments_title_1
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Meeko 04:36 PM 03-25-2013
One would assume that most parents would be smart enough to understand.

Your daycare provider is NOT YOUR EMPLOYEE.

SHE decides when to open, what to charge etc. It's HER business.

If you don't like it, why on earth did you sign the contract????????

There ARE drop in places out there. You CAN pay daily if you wish.

Oh, you like your provider and she's good to your child????

THEN PAY HER!
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nanglgrl 07:07 PM 03-25-2013
Originally Posted by MarinaVanessa:
Yes it goes on and on my friend ...
Someone started singing it not knowing what it was....
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Evansmom 09:45 PM 03-25-2013
Originally Posted by nanglgrl:
Someone started singing it not knowing what it was....
And they'll continue singing it forever just because...

Seriously the poster who brought this thread up again sounds like a troll to me.
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Unregistered 09:07 AM 04-05-2013
Originally Posted by leadhead15717:
*Do you pay for a whole month of cable-even if you only watch it 24 days a month?
* Do you pay full price for your VCR if you only use it twice a week?
* Do you pay full price for your meal even if you don’t finish it?
* Do you pay the same rent/mortgage even when you are at work 5 days a week?
*Do you pay your full car payments if you only drive it a few days a month?
* Do you pay your whole cable bill if you only watch TV one day a week.

This list could go on but it amazes me that people can't grasp the concept when it comes to Day Care services.........



I fully agree....... I run my own day care and I charge for all stat holidays ..... for it would be like you not getting paid for your vacation which is added into you weekly pay.... or your boss closing for a month days and not paying you.... or say your boss say you need to come to work on the sat / sun when you normally do not and then says you are not being paid for those days..... what a lot of people forget is that all their extra pay ( vacation, sick, maternity, holiday, etc are added into their weekly pay... they are also entitled to sub or some for of pay while off work .... as for a lot of private daycares do not have that option ..... as well if a person works on the stat holiday they get paid time in half ..... I would really like to see or hear of a boss telling their employer that they need to work but will not get paid, or a supplier go to a company and say you need to take this product and sell it but you get nothing for it or how about a boss saying that you do not get to have any breaks or lunch and you need to work 12 hours strait and your only making $30 a day when most people are making $80 a day or more plus their vacation, stat holidays, retirment etc..... it does not and will not happen.... so why should you get paid for you staying home on holidays, vacation, maternity etc and the daycare providers do not..... I have had clients when I first started drop their children off at 6:00am and not pick up til 6:00pm on a holiday..... ( dad would sleep all day, mom would go shopping, pay bills, get hair & nails done massage, cook dinner, clean house etc) then come and complain that its way to hard to do any stuff when their child is with them ...... so because I was being taken advantage of from soooo many clients I added the stat holidays in my contract...... for why do I need to care for you child on any stat holiday while you get to do as you please and get paid.... are you willing to care for my child 5 days a week for me to show up when ever and not want to pay for late fees or holidays just so I can go shopping, get hair & nails , cook dinner, clean my house, etc..... I dont think so..... sorry for the rant .... but tired of people taking advantage of the hard working loving caring dedicated professional daycare providers........
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Unregistered 09:08 AM 04-05-2013
I run my own day care and I charge for all stat holidays ..... for it would be like you not getting paid for your vacation which is added into you weekly pay.... or your boss closing for a month days and not paying you.... or say your boss say you need to come to work on the sat / sun when you normally do not and then says you are not being paid for those days..... what a lot of people forget is that all their extra pay ( vacation, sick, maternity, holiday, etc are added into their weekly pay... they are also entitled to sub or some for of pay while off work .... as for a lot of private daycares do not have that option ..... as well if a person works on the stat holiday they get paid time in half ..... I would really like to see or hear of a boss telling their employer that they need to work but will not get paid, or a supplier go to a company and say you need to take this product and sell it but you get nothing for it or how about a boss saying that you do not get to have any breaks or lunch and you need to work 12 hours strait and your only making $30 a day when most people are making $80 a day or more plus their vacation, stat holidays, retirment etc..... it does not and will not happen.... so why should you get paid for you staying home on holidays, vacation, maternity etc and the daycare providers do not..... I have had clients when I first started drop their children off at 6:00am and not pick up til 6:00pm on a holiday..... ( dad would sleep all day, mom would go shopping, pay bills, get hair & nails done massage, cook dinner, clean house etc) then come and complain that its way to hard to do any stuff when their child is with them ...... so because I was being taken advantage of from soooo many clients I added the stat holidays in my contract...... for why do I need to care for you child on any stat holiday while you get to do as you please and get paid.... are you willing to care for my child 5 days a week for me to show up when ever and not want to pay for late fees or holidays just so I can go shopping, get hair & nails , cook dinner, clean my house, etc..... I dont think so..... sorry for the rant .... but tired of people taking advantage of the hard working loving caring dedicated professional daycare providers........
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Unregistered 10:25 AM 04-05-2013
Originally Posted by Crystal:
I understand the parent's complaints about having to pay for child care when they are not using it, really I do. However, I also understand the providers' side of this.

As a provider who DOES charge for holidays, as well as a week of vacation and four floating holidays of my choice, I must say that in 16 years I have never been questioned about it. Here is why:

I provide a very high quality program, spending a significant amount of my "income" on my program, (MUCH more than I do on myself or family)

I work 12+ hours per day (up at 5:00, working in the playroom preparing for the days activities and cleaning the restrooms, mopping floors, etc. by 5:30, open doors at 7:00-sometimes earlier if needed - for FREE- work until 5:30-6:00-sometimes later if needed-for free - then clean up and shut down until 6:30-7:00) I don't get paid overtime.

I NEVER take a sick day, (really, 3 in 16 years and those were major emergencies)

I provde mildly ill child care - so if your child has a virus that most providers would require her to stay home for AND charge you for it, they can stay with me so you don't miss work (this is provided in another area, away from well children)

I offer alot of "extras" for my families, such as I do not charge late fees if a parent calls and says they are running a little late to pick up (who works late without getting paid for it? Providers do) open early if needed, plan weekend outings with families that I pay for, etc.

I charge less than the average rate for my area and do not charge more for infants just because they are infants.

I spend upwards of 600+ hours per year participating in training and school so that I can be the BEST provider for your children....time taken away from my own family and money as well, because no one else pays for my education. Many of my Saturdays and Sundays (two weekends per month) I am in school from 9-5

I am very active in the child care community, advocate for parents and children and provide resources for my families that they otherwise would not know about.

I am SUPER dependable.....my parents KNOW that if they are scheduled to be here, I will, without fail, be here and be READY for their children.

I could go on and on and on.....but my point is MANY (and I dare say most here) do all of the same things I do, and we do it with a SMILE, because we love your children and we love our work. All we ask for in return is a little respect, a timely "paycheck" and a few measley holidays off to spend with our own families.

I am very privileged to have the families I have. They VALUE having me as their provider, and the HAPPILY pay me for extra days off AND give me GREAT Holiday Bonuses as well! If they treated me with the disdain that some of the parents here have expressed, well, they'd be losing out on a great thing, because I would absolutley REFUSE to work with a parent who did not value my work with their children enough to pay for a few holiday closures.





100% agree very well said.......
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Josaralex 04:08 PM 05-15-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Considering the average home day care provider works an average of 10.5-12 hours/day with no breaks and no lunch to accommodate the varying needs of her clients I find it essential that she get paid for holidays just as any working professional would. I also think it is important that she get paid for vacations otherwise she might not be able to afford to take them. I don't feel it is healthy for anyone to work those hours 5 days a week and to be financially discouraged from taking vacation and holiday time. Do you really want that unhealthy overworked person caring for your child?
Couldn't of said it better myself!
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californiacaregiver 12:50 PM 05-16-2013
Parents... please know child cares, centers, nannies....we are our own small businesses... we set the terms & conditions clearly in our contracts, IF you signed the contract... you've agreed. (there is no policing agency...right or wrong way... on our contractual terms)

Whether it be, paying for slot in location, days off paid vs. non-paid, Provider closed for do I pay.... Federal Holiday, blah, blah, blah....

DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE YOU SIGN A CONTRACT, MOST PROVIDERS HAVE VARYING TERMS WE COME UP WITH BECAUSE OF OUR OWN PERSONAL EXPERIENCES (some locations will be flexible on the terms but if so get it in writing). I'm sorry to say, most Parents do NOT do comparison shopping of terms n conditions... then you feel something is unfair.
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Unregistered 07:28 AM 08-25-2014
Many people who own businesses do not have the luxuries of holidays. Sometimes it is the cost of being self-employed. If you are paying for daycare full-time and you are splitting the yearly up into a weekly cost, then maybe. However, for part-time/half-day you are paying for specific days and times. Many parents, including myself, also do not get holidays off. On those days we must find alternatives and pay double, both for daycare(that is unavailable) and a babysitter. Let's not forget daycare is already a mortgage payment for one child. Collect your holiday pay from the state paid fees and not the parents who can barely afford daycare but "make to much money." A 1 child and 1 parent family only making $36k/year gets zero help to pay for daycare in Wisconsin. Having to pay double, when you having nothing left over after bills is quite difficult. Especially when that comes a few days in a short period, when you are hurting the most for money(Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve/Day and New Years Eve/Day).
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Blackcat31 07:31 AM 08-25-2014
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Many people who own businesses do not have the luxuries of holidays. Sometimes it is the cost of being self-employed. If you are paying for daycare full-time and you are splitting the yearly up into a weekly cost, then maybe. However, for part-time/half-day you are paying for specific days and times. Many parents, including myself, also do not get holidays off. On those days we must find alternatives and pay double, both for daycare(that is unavailable) and a babysitter. Let's not forget daycare is already a mortgage payment for one child. Collect your holiday pay from the state paid fees and not the parents who can barely afford daycare but "make to much money." A 1 child and 1 parent family only making $36k/year gets zero help to pay for daycare in Wisconsin. Having to pay double, when you having nothing left over after bills is quite difficult. Especially when that comes a few days in a short period, when you are hurting the most for money(Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve/Day and New Years Eve/Day).
A family of 1 child and 1 adult making 36K per year is doing pretty well IMO....more than most child care providers make in a year.

I couldn't care less what other small business owners do. I do what works for ME and MY family.

YOU do what works for YOU and your family and if paying for days your child doesn't attend care or weeks your provider is on vacation doesnt work for you, then find a provider who only charges for the time you used.

It really is that simple.
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Unregistered 09:23 AM 08-25-2014
Quick math lesson: $36k/yrs = aprox. $1600/month take home. 1600 - $600 for daycare - $600 for small apt = $400 for utilities, gas, food, car insurance and all other fine things. You also get no help from the state vs the person at $34k. We setup fundraisers for families that are in that no man's land to help with daycare needs. We also have a non-profit daycare setup that also has reduced rates vs others. Also medium sized daycares that have 20 full-time kids at $600 a head(not counting part-time), not really in the $36k range. As for what's good for whom, I've seen an entire daycare of parents pull their kids and not pay due to poor customer service. Don't see that necessarily good for anyone, more so for the owner of course. I am thankful we have a great daycare that helps raise our children with proper attitudes in life, with everybody helping everybody rather that you do what's good for you and I'll do what's good for me. That would be worth pulling my kid out of a daycare for, not if they charge for holidays or not.
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Tags:2007, charging on holidays, christmas, contract, dead horse, estrangement, getting money's worth, good friday, holiday, independence day, labor day, memorial day, new years, paid holidays, paid vacations, presidents day, thanksgiving, the post that would not end, train wreck, unpaid holiday, unrealistic expectations, veterans day, whining
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