Caring for friends children

[Busy ECE mommy]

I don’t do friends or neighbours or family as clients. The lines seem to get blurred too much. Usually the provider ends up getting taken advantage of. The same policies need to apply for all with no exceptions because of your relationship dynamics. It’s difficult to enforce as you often get the guilt trip from the other person.
Make sure you have a hefty late pickup fee in place, and that the hours of contracted attendance are clearly outlined in the contract. I charge $20 per each part of a 1/2 hour, so if the pickup was 45 minutes late, then late fees have now extended into the next 1/2 hour, so $40 late pickup per child.
There is no reason to be late, unless there’s a car accident or major weather event. I make all my parents have at least 2 backup pickup people, and I start calling the backups immediately.
As far as vacation, parents can book a vacation a year in advance, and plans may change. I ask for 24-48 hours notice if vacation or absence will occur( unless due to fast onset illness)
Make sure your contract is clear and outlines all policies/consequences. Then verbally go over it again and have her sign again if you revised policies. Make it clear that violating the contract will result in termination. You’ve got to put on your business hat and forget the relationship.
If it happens again, then terminate care.