Need to vent... Parents mad that I took 2 sick days this month

[kidlove]

I've had many parents through the years like this...what is good for them is not good for you! They only think of themselves, they can leave you hanging after hours while they DO whatever they need ,and come to pick up with a new "excuse" every night they are late. But goodness, forbid you have to close every once in a while due to the fact that you are too ill/contagious to care for other peoples children (putting them first, due to the fact you don't want to spread your illness to the well families you provide care for none the less) or staying home to take care of your child ONLY because, the facts are....you are only one person and took this job first and foremost (willing to bet) for the betterment of your own family. but they can't understand that. These are the kind of people that will take take take until there is no more to be taken. The first thing you need to do is charge a Late Fee! every time they ar emore than one minute past your closing time, they MUST be charged. This way, IF they continue to "use" you, at least you won't feel completely used, you will at least have some financial compensation for their ignorance, not to mention...usually when you put money on an issue, all of a sudden you are heard. IF you start charging them each time they are late, almost 100% they will begin picking up on time. People will only push you as far as you let them! And in this field of work, we are generally very kind and caring women, therefor.....transla tes to "easily used"! Don't let yourself get used by rude people. You are worth more than that!
Lastly, IF they can't handle being "put out" every once in a while due to the fact that you do have a family and personal life, they may want to choose a Day Care center instead of family care, they will drop their child to one of many random people throughout the week and NEVER have to worry about the inconvenience of having the facility be closed for what ever reason. Maybe going to a Center they can be set straight on the fact that all care providers family or center based are NOT "baby sitters" but professional care providers with abilities and knowledge far exceeding that of a 12 year old girl, who comes to your home to watch your child watch TV. They sound like they need to be set straight or let Go! You deserve more respect, and this family is not giving it! if you can't make them respect you through a little conversation and a few late fees tacked on, please let them go and look for someone who values you, and the fact that you have values as well! Either way you choose to go! Let it go for now and enjoy the Holiday, but first day back......take care of the problem! Merry Christmas to you!!!!