I think we have to convince the parents that conditioning their child for daycare is in their childs best interest.

I know for me, feeding a bottle is not possible at lunch, so at the interview I tell parents "I physically am unable to feed a bottle so it's important that your child is starting to get used to a sippy before he comes, otherwise it's going to be uncomfortable and confusing for him"

Parents often think that our "demands" are to make our job easier, when that's really not the case. We require certain things be done or well on their way at least so their child has an easy transition into someone elses care.

It's all how you word it sometimes.