Think I am about to "fire" my first family....SCARED!

[Junelouise]

Ok so I won't go into ALL the reasons, but I am starting to dislike my job because of ONE set of parents. They are condescending and rude, and to be honest just expect too much of me. They are too often dropping comments that I find upsetting.They often hint that their 24 mo is bored with me too! I was thinking about starting to kick things up a notch based on their rude feedback, when I decided that I am a GOOD daycare provider and they are lucky to have me!

They are my first family since I started up, and I feel guilty and nervous about terminating care. To be honest, I am a bit intimidated by the mother, as she has kinda been bullying me.

My question is, how do I do this? Should I try and rectify my issues first? Should I tell them I can no longer do them the favour I agreed to when we first started, and force them to walk? Can I fire them via email? I am terrified to do it face to face. I have always been horrible with confrontation. What do you think? How can I overcome my fear and just do it already??

How do you handle these parents when they come and pick up their child? I find if I know what time they are picking up, I have the child ready to go out the door. There are NO issues, just say "had a good day and see you tomorrow" and walk away. They will get the hint that you are not their punching bag. If they make a comment about not being happy with anything..you just say "sorry you are not happy, and you can feel free to make other arrangements for your child's care. Open the door, and show them out. I had to fire a couple of families in my 30 years experience and both times I handed them a letter which just says "sorry things are not working out and you have 2 weeks notice to make other arrangements for your child's care." Make sure you put the date of your last day of daycare. You will find they will usually leave immediately or within a couple of days. It is never easy, just try to make it as comfortable for you as possible without getting into a fight with them. Good luck!
June