My Mat leave policy is $80 per week. That gives you 2 days of care (non transferrable to another week) You pay it regardless or vacation time, sick time, I'm closed, you can't come. Doesn't matter. They pay regardless. And I only do this for a limited number of clients and only those who show intention of returning and only if I can afford to take the cut (sometimes I like the prospect of having a bit of a break)

Some clients choose to religiously bring their child for those 2 days. Some only bring them once in a while. Regardless... they pay the same fee every week.

So, no, I wouldn't bend. It sets the wrong tone in the relationship.

You really have to think about it like this.... if you bent like this for everyone you wouldn't be able to afford to do daycare, then where would these people be. You're doing them a service by charging a fair, reasonable rate and maintaining a profitable business.