How to announce you're closing your dc

[Suzie_Homemaker]

Maybe not the popular view but really, parent not give a flying fig why you are closing, other than maybe curiosity. The only information the parent will be concerned about is when and how long they have to line up replacement care.

It is just waffle giving reasons.

I would phone. I think client deserve personal conversation however it tricky doing it face to face at pick up/drop off times and if I a parent, and carer wanted me to drop in for coffee for "big announcement" I think I'd be miffed at the intrusion into my personal time if it's not a concern specific to my child. Just me, but bit presumptuous that client willing to give up their family time, to gather someone, to hear some statement from carer who wants all to find out at same time. Very odd.

I would just phone. Keep information simple and to the point. Be professional. They not care why really although some will ask because it's thought to be expected they show interest.

Just state you have decided to close to move onto something new, that final days of care will be whenever the date is, that you wish them all the best, and thank for their custom.

I can't think of one service provider I have who would feel obligated to tell me the reasons they made a choice to close their business nor can I think of one who would expect me to show up as a group for coffee to hear the news. If my hairdresser, day care provider, anyone asked me to come for coffee because they wanted to share some news, my first comment would be "can't you just tell me now? Why do I need to come to some formal meeting? What's so important?"

Regarding deposits. Once you tell them you are closing and the date, you have given them notice. Not sure if someone can then give you notice to go sooner but guess they could. But pulling without the notice period in your contract would mean losing the deposit, so surely just your normal contract terms apply?