I admit, I have been lenient with some families but it all depends on their past history with me. I really haven't had issues with payment (except for the parent I recently terminated
) and I think it's due to my strict payment policy.

Getting paid in advance also helps. If a family were to leave without notice, it would suck and you have to decide how far you are going to go to get it, but at least your not out any money for services but they did break contract.