Interviews without the Child?

[Lee-Bee]

You can't always tell from that one meeting how the child will be. I had a meeting with one family and the girl threw an absolute tantrum when they were leaving. I did accept her into care and she was fine (knew she couldn't get away with it from me), I had her for 2 years and her younger sister eventually for 6 months until mom decided to quit her job and stay home. Another interview I had with a great family and the boy was so wonderful and polite. He was one of my most difficult children. I had him for a year and was so happy when he left.

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I don't have enough time to let families do a pre-screening with me before bringing the dad and child...my time is valuable too and I have many interviews as well.

I want the child here so I can see how the parents and child interact with each other. Does the parent attempt to discipline in an effective manner (I get they respond differently when in public but you can get a sense of how things are by watching).

My first interview is more or less all about picking up a good vibe, watching how they all interact, how do they interact with me etc. We discuss general day to day daycare policies etc...but do not go into the policy manual until second interview.