Boundaries

[cfred]

Yes, awkward moments have come up a few times in the past. During the interview, which is also very casual and friendly, this is discussed as well as the reasoning behind the contract. So, before someone even starts, they understand where I'm coming from. So far as clashing parenting styles, those who don't like the way I do things don't hire me, and vice versa. Interviews are very open, usually long and extremely friendly. Our parenting styles may not always match up completely, but both sides are willing enough to learn from each other, if that makes any sense. What I find most often is that parents appreciate my 'no nonsense' approach and the fact that I temper it with very maternal behaviour toward all the children. Many times, the parents come to me looking for advice, which is very cool. There will ALWAYS be people who are ready and willing to take advantage of you. I've had a couple. BUT, the vast majority of my clients are fantastic....really. ..golden. I currently have a roster of amazingly supportive clients....I typically do, with the odd exception.

I've found that my 'open' approach benefits me in a number of ways. First, they feel close to me and I to them...this breeds some loyalty in most people. We're friends and they care about me, which is a nice aspect to have in a client. I have a trip booked for New Zealand at the end of January for 2.5 weeks. Crappily enough, I've got a surgery that may need to happen either just before or just after. Every single client has said 'Don't worry, we'll sort it out'. All have assured me that they will not be looking elsewhere and that I must keep my vacation (if possible) in spite of the surgery. I kinda think that's awesome. If I was more rigid, perhaps the response might not have been as kind? I don't know. Plus, they're exceedingly comfortable leaving their children with me BECAUSE they know me so well. No one ever questions me or my practices....ever.

So far as parents forgetting to pay...it does happen now and then. Most of the time, it's a genuine accident. They always feel badly and offer to go home and come back, to which I typically decline....tell them to bring it Monday. None of them rip me off, none of them argue my rates, days off, vacation time, curriculum, menu.....nothing. If anything, I find them very accommodating. Jeez....one even brings me coffee every morning. Late pickups happen once in a while. I don't put an hour limit on care. I'm open from 6-6. As long as pick up happens in that time frame, it's all good. I've had 2 lates in the past year. Both felt terrible and one was unavoidable....the other showed up with cash and profuse apologizing.

I wouldn't do it any other way. It's nice to really like your clients But I can certainly understand why other approaches work too. This is just the best for me.