Just a quick update on the situation for everyone...Mom showed up with an apology and last weeks dues in cash this afternoon at pick up, which was what I had asked her to do. I explained that I MUST have current, accurate, contact information in the event that her daughter becomes sick or injured while in my care. I don't know if she really "gets it" though. She had a real poker face & english is not her first language (she's not the most talkative person at the best of times) So I honestly don't know if she understands a) how serious this is and b) that I am ticked off by this whole fiasco. I confirmed with her that she has adequate funds to cover this week's cheque, but I will be depositting her cheque separately from here on in. That way if it bounces I won't have to bother the other parents - I'll know it's this family's cheque that was the problem. I'm also going to take the advice that was offered here - this incident is her one "freebie" The next cheque that bounces will result in a cash only policy for her family, and I will begin looking for a replacement family. (oh - and I did "check" the numbers provided to confirm that they were correct this time around) Thanks again to everyone who weighed in - it was hugely helpful to feel that I had all this support !