I feel like I can't be firm but I need to be....

[mama2_3]

I'm licensed with wee watch right now. I only have one part time client. they use 2 days a week but the days are never the same. they are supposed to decide on the days but things have been up in the air with parents' jobs and I've wanted to cut them a break because they are my only clients after all and I like them very much. And their little one is an absolute angel baby, she is a daycare provider's dream! eats well, sleeps well, never cries, plays nicely.
But the problem is since I'm licensed and have 3 kids of my own under 6 I can only take 2 extra kids so they are basically using a full time spot and I'm only getting paid for 2 days a week. the other problem is they are supposed to give me a week's notice but often I have no idea my dck is coming until the night before. I'm a shy person. Can anyone give me a speech and a kick in the butt to make it? I want to be super nice and keep my clients but I need them to pick days! I'm also thinking of advertising for a private client because I'm just not getting the business from wee watch.
I would go private but I went licensed mostly because I didn't want to have to deal with parents and contracts and also we live in an area that some consider 'sketchy' and I was worried prospective parents would automatically not consider me because of the area. I wanted to get some references from clients before striking out on my own.
Anyhow. help :p

[momofnerds]

write it down on paper if you need to and give it to them. I think this is why many of us don't go thru companies anymore because of the restrictions.

[Wonderwiper]

Why not try and see if you can get some private clients first? Since they are currently your only income you probably don't want to lose them right now. If you get other potential clients you can then go to first family and let them know they need to set a schedule or lose their spot.

[Skysue]

I would try private as wee watch gives you nothing for the same work as private. Just go on line for contact examples to formulate your own its really simple!

Your worth more that what your making.

PLUS there are a lot of amazing families that live in lower cost areas, if you offer a clean, home with quality toys, healthy meals why wouldn't clients come? Be the best daycare in your area and let your product speak for itself!

[Lou]

I communicate important non-emergency information via email. I do this because I often forget things I wish to say in person and wish I would have said later, and also so that I have it in writing what I have communicated so there is no confusion down the road.

Dear XXX,

This is a letter to inform you that effective immediately, I require 1 week's notice of days of care required. This is so I can plan for our days together effectively, and for scheduling purposes for when more children will be welcomed into my home for care.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding,

XXX