(long) Vent: Loser of a mother!

[mom-in-alberta]

I am so sad for this poor little girl, who is obviously not much more than an inconvenience to her mother.
That aside; it's time to put your foot down. Enforce your rules, as stated in your contract/handbook. I would keep advertising, and as soon as you can, give her a final notice to comply with the agreements in the contract.
I guess it comes down to whether or not you can see them walk away. I would not accept a dirty, unfed child at drop off. I would flat out tell mom that she needed to go home and get her ready for the day. If she doesn't feed her (and since she communicates, you can ask!!), I would implement a cost to providing breakfast. (On a side note: hickory sticks for breakfast??? REALLY?? Ugh!!)
I would also give her a bill for the steam cleaning of your couch and carpet. Not fair to you. Either she brings acceptable equipment, or you will provide it.