No parent pick up

I really need everyone’s opinion on this situation. I have been caring for my nephews for several years now and everything has been going smoothly. We have always treated daycare hours very differently than after hours, keeping my business as business (as this is very important to me).

It is to mention that they are my second neighbours.

Today my older nephew was sent to pick up his brother (8 and 5), with the parents notably at home. Please note that the 8 year old was in care until last Friday.

What would you have done?

I am quite confident in the way I addressed the situation, however looking forward to hearing everyone else’s opinion.

You said they live 2 doors down right? First off, family or not I would not send the enrolled child home if it had not be prearranged.

As for having it prearranged...it would depend on both the 8 & 5 year old's level of maturity. I would have the parents sign a consent form stating they have approved of this.

The schools I have worked at typically have the rule that children in kindergarten (so 4 and 5yr olds) need to be picked up by someone over the age of 12. From grade 1 onwards an older sibling can help them home if they are walkers.

Since you are 2 doors away I think it is fine to let them go together. Assuming you are not in an incredibly sketchy neighborhood!

I do think it needs to be verbally discussed and put in writing though so everyone is on the same page.

I agree with lee bee. For today, I'd have called mom and dad to make sure it was ok, and have them sign a form (sort of like a pickup authorization) that states the older brother is permitted to pick up from now on.