I do the same thing I have a 4:30 closure. BUT due to inclimate weather or traffic conditions I would rather have a family slow down and drive safely than get into an accident trying to arrive here on time. I allow parents a 15 min grace period before charging a late fee, if it isn't a 'normal' occurance. However, if a family is late because they ran an errand before coming to daycare, there is always a late fee starting at 4:30. I can usually tell if a family is late due to traffic or weather because the other families will be late too.

I think the most important part of my contract is the respect. If a parent shows me respect and common courtesy then I am more willing to show a parent respect. Just because I have a $35 nsf fee doesn't mean I have to charge it. If a family comes to me and tells me their cheque is going to bounce I will only charge the bank fees that I incurred due to the bounced cheque. The late fee is reserved for those who don't tell me their cheque is going to bounce and I get a nasty surprise when checking my account.