Childcare providers and Contracts

fsylz · Joined: 11 Jun 2007 Posts: 1

Childminders and Contracts

Golden rule for in home childcare providers before committing to a business relationship is to have a contract in place. Start as you mean to go on, have everything defined, crystal clear and signed off on before you proceed. Same thing applies to a day care (more on that later). Many savvy childminders will already have a version of a parent handbook/contract itemising their terms and conditions, however, all too often, both parents and childminder enter into a vague, verbal relationship which can easily end in tears.

Sit down with your prospective parents and clarify your new business relationship. At the very least agree the following in writing:

* Hours of care
* Is there a penalty if they are late occasionally
* How many days holidays will you be paid
* Will they pay public holidays
* Will they pay when they do not bring child
* How much notice will they give when children will not attend e.g. holidays
* Will they pay if children are sick and unable to attend
* Agree a sickness policy i.e. agree incidents when child is sick/contagious and you can request they collect child
* Will they pay when you are sick
* Will they pay if you are unable to take children
* How much notice should you give if you need time off
* How many meals and snacks will you provide (and any specific requirements)
* Agree methods of communication e.g. chat at pick up, comment book, weekly chat
* Agree methods of dealing with challenging behaviour/discipline so everyone is consistent and on the same page
* What do parents need to supply e.g. nappies, wipes, food?
* Ensure all insurance is in place both for within the house and any transportation in the car
* Indicate all designated persons for pick up of the child and ensure you are always informed in advance
* You may want touch on daily activities and interactions i.e. will child be going to the playground, shops, meeting with any adults besides you
* When and how parents will pay plus receipts if required
* How much notice required should parents withdraw child
* How much notice required should you withdraw service

The above suggestions are merely a guideline for formulating your own contract because ultimately every situation, parent and child is unique and you will have your own requirements.
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