Hi everyone! This is my first time posting but I have just spent nap time here reading as many posts here as I can and it seems like a lot of great advice!

My contract clearly outlines late pick up but I am having trouble with one DCM who consistently drops off her almost 3 yr old son (birthday this week) a minimum of half an hour late every morning. They live two houses away. Her contract states 9:30 but she can't manage to get him here ever before 10 because he has a tantrum. I'm not sure what the problem is because he enjoys being here and doesn't fight once they arrive. He is truly gold as far as his behaviour with me but I know he is opposite at home.

Anyway, I know I need to nip this lateness in the bud but I need help in my approach. I fear the mother suffers depression (only speculation on my part) and just doesn't have the energy to fight with her son. So I don't want to upset her for that reason but also because they are such close neighbours. How can I bring this up?

It is a problem because I do like to get out and about in the mornings and only have until 11:30 before we pick up the other kids from school. When they are late, then we end up staying home waiting around. I thought about offering to pick him up on my way by from dropping the other kids off at school (around 9:15) but if he isn't ready to go then I will be wasting time waiting and I don't want to add another item to my schedule. It should be her job to get him here on time! Any thoughts?