Before committing to a childcare provider or nanny be sure to have a contract in place. Everything should be clearly outlined and signed by both parties before your child starts their first day. Most providers will already have a version of a parent handbook and contract outlining their terms and conditions. However, all too often, both parents and the provider enter into a vague, verbal relationship which can easily end in tears.
Sit down with your prospective child care provider or nanny and clarify your new business relationship. In the very least agree the following in writing:
- Hours of care
- Late fees or penalties
- Which holidays are off and which are on
- How to handle days when care isn’t needed
- Policies regarding sickness, temperatures and contagiousness
- Policies regarding when the provider or nanny is unable to care for your children
- How much notice should your provider or nanny give if she needs time off
- Which, if any, meals and snacks will be provided
- Daily communication - verbal updates at pick up, comment book, notes, etc.
- Discipline policies
- Which supplies do parents provide
- Policies regarding designated pick up options
- When and how you will pay
- How much notice is required by either party regarding discontinuing child care arrangements
The above suggestions are merely a guideline for formulating your own contract with your child care provider because ultimately every situation, parent and child is unique and you will have your own requirements and questions.
<font size=”1″><em>Fiona Lohrenz has been running her own day care for the past 10 years and is the founder Child Care Only.</em></font>
