Ungrateful family...vent

[Skysue]

Why should Dreamalittledream change her rare inner beauty and character because one set of parents are not as grateful as the rest? How do we know the true hearts of the parents?

That's whats wrong with this generation we all feel like we are owed something. This is a job we do and yes if parents tell us we are doing a good one than bonus, if they get us a gift from time to time than bonus too.

Yes it stinks when not everyone doesn't say thank you but thats the nature of this world.

In answer to your question yes I do my best to treat everyone with grace and respect especially the rude ones. There the ones that need it the most.

[playfelt]

Because the cost comes out of her pocket and her personal income and it isnt' fair to be punished on all fronts. Giving a going away gift of any kind is not a contract requirement just as parents saying thanks and gifting us is not required. Family history said they gesture would not be appreciated so therefore the cost is not warranted. The child is too young to appreciate the gift and it is even doubtful if the book will even be around when child is older since her "real" daycare as a child will be her new one that she is in for a longer time. It isn't about treating people differently it is about treating people proportionally - I do nicer things for families I have in care for 2-3 years compared to ones I have as a summer fill in for a couple months and am treated equivalently in return.

In this business we do what we need to do to protect ourselves and that includes protecting our incomes, our time and our mental happiness.

[Momof4]

Well that makes me really sad and you are such a nice person Dream. We learn as the years go by who to trust and when to give and when to say NO! I had to learn to say that word because I was walked on all my life by too many people. I'm still a nice person but I'm not as exhausted and overworked and abused because now I know my limits and when to take care of myself. It isn't selfish or wrong or mean to take care of YOU! Really, it isn't! It's SMART!

[Dreamalittledream]

Thanks for your feedback everyone! I have learned some important lessons from this client; as a fairly new provider 2 years in, lessons that needed to be learned. I will no longer be offering/accepting care occurring outside of my daycare hours. This is ME time & family time; far too precious.
In the case of this family who so took advantage, I gave a lot and am very proud that I came out on top, never compromising my values. I have taught my own children through this about kindness and helping another family out. I have a tiny glimmer of hope that from my generosity somehow, it will effect some kind of positive change in them.

[jazmic]

I was just having this conversation with my dh last night. You never know the impact you have on people even if they never say a word. I'm pretty sure this family is going to remember you and miss you.