Please tell me if my contract is okay..

[mickyc]

I agree with everything Amanda said.

Personally I would charge for all stats as well as family vacation days. I started giving a $5 reduced rate on holiday time ONLY when I am given 1 months notice. This really helps families get organized and actually tell me their schedules instead of last minute. I still get some money when they take holidays and they feel like they are getting a deal. I wouldn't offer 7 days no pay - could you afford it if all families took the exact same time off? Would it be ok for families to use their holiday time for sick days (they just wont tell you their child is sick?) What about those who leave after just a month or 2? They will end up only giving 1 weeks notice and then using their 7 unpaid days.

Also I would increase your notice to 3-4 weeks. 2 weeks isn't long enough to fill spots in most cases. I also wouldn't have the month trial period either. Just set out a full set if reasons for termination and leave it at that. You will have passed over people to fill a spot only to have the one you took not work out and give no notice the first month, that is so frustrating! You should be given proper notice so that you can take the time to fill the spot and not loose too much money.

Late pick up - increase your fee! I charge $1 per minute past my closing time. Consistent late pickups are grounds for termination. Also late payment fee. My payment is due Friday at drop off. Late fee of $15 starting at noon that day. No I will not wait until pick up time just because you forgot your cheque. They will only pay the late fee once and never forget again! It isn't giving them permission to be late, it is punishment for being unorganized.

Also what do you expect the parents to provide. Diapers, bottles, clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, bedding, car seats, sippy cups? Yes be very specific in what clothing you require for all seasons (waterproof mitts!). Do you allow soothers? toys? stuffed animals?

For myself I only have 1 nap time here. All children are quickly transitioned into 1 nap (2.5 hours). For those who don't nap quiet activities are provided (coloring, puzzles, TV). Also I ask NO drop off's or pickups take place during this time. This is also YOUR break time so make sure parents understand that.

You should also have a consent form for any trips/outings you take as well as any photos you take of the children.

Set out a pay schedule - you tell your families what you prefer so pick one (bi-weekly or monthly) and have the same for everyone.

Renew your contract yearly. That way you can go through it every year and make any changes that you need to. I give my families my new contract every year at Christmas time and it is effective January 1st.

What about receipts. When do you provide them? For myself I provide them at the end of the year or when care is terminated. Do not give out receipts until all fees including late fees are paid (put that in your contract).

**For me personally I prefer 15 months to 5 years. The older kids are hard on toys, teach the little ones bad things and are harder to entertain.