Apparently, I have MUG written on my forehead!!

[11 years experience]

WOW!! are you sure you're not in my daycare cause that sounds ALOT like most of my parents.

what I do is send out a monthly letter to all parents. For what ever reason comes up that month.
i.e if your having problems with a parents with pickup time. Just send a letter out (not directed to 1 parent) but rather to everyone to say that you would prefer for all kids being there no later then 8:00 am so everyone can be on the same scehdule (YOURS) also put in the letter how much you appriciate everyone cooperation, bla bal bla...
and for drop off I never assume parents will be on time (cause lets face it---there NOT) I assume that they will be picking up by 5:15pm (my closeing) and when a certain parents is late 3,4,5,6 times (lol) i send out this reminder letter about MY closing time...

[bright sparks]

WOW!! are you sure you're not in my daycare cause that sounds ALOT like most of my parents.

what I do is send out a monthly letter to all parents. For what ever reason comes up that month.
i.e if your having problems with a parents with pickup time. Just send a letter out (not directed to 1 parent) but rather to everyone to say that you would prefer for all kids being there no later then 8:00 am so everyone can be on the same scehdule (YOURS) also put in the letter how much you appriciate everyone cooperation, bla bal bla...
and for drop off I never assume parents will be on time (cause lets face it---there NOT) I assume that they will be picking up by 5:15pm (my closeing) and when a certain parents is late 3,4,5,6 times (lol) i send out this reminder letter about MY closing time...

IMO and IME this doesn't work. This was always my approach, not wanting to offend people or cause an unpleasent atmosphere with the parents but I'm just realizing that by doing this, I am part of the problem. If it isn't dealt with, by the book with my policies and consequences stated in my contract being enforced the first time, then I'm in effect causing it to go on. Bear in mind, lol, this is an area I am having HUGE struggles with, as all of my issues surrounding this kind of thing are with families who are repeat multiple offenders who Ive had for close to 2 years, so its easier said than done changing this passive way of functioning along with the need to please people. Not good at all. I am however trying to break this by not being as passive about it anymore and changing my ways. Its funny how myself, and you 11 years.... and so many other providers don't seem to want to upset these parents when they clearly have a complete disregard for our feelings, our business and our home life when they pick up late and don't give a rats arse about it. I shouldn't have to send reminders out left right and centre, especially repeatedly. If they were able to comprehend my contract when they signed up for my services, they are clearly smart enough to understand and retain information, so it's got nothing to do with, not having the capacity to retain this info, they are simply, not respectful people IMO.

OOooo, I should definitley work on practising what I preach LOL I seem to know it all, but can't put any of it in to place haha. I'm working on it ladies and I will let you know how I get on.