When Parents are Late
Taken from the National Network for Child Care's Connections Newsletter
Christine M. Todd, Ph.D.
Child Development Specialist
Human Development and Family Studies
University of Illinois Cooperative Extension
It's twenty minutes past your usual closing time and Jane is the only child left. Jane's mother is late, again.
One of the most frustrating aspects of being a child care professional is late parents. Here are some things to help you with this problem.
Before accepting a family, make sure you can accommodate the parent's work schedules. Some parents never work late while others have last-minute meetings almost every day.
Often, parents don't realize it is a problem when they are late. Their previous provider may not have minded if they were late. Or they may not mind working late and assume you are the same way. These parents are not truly inconsiderate - they are just not aware that they are causing a conflict. It is up to you to avoid this problem by clearly stating your policy during the original interview with the parents.
You might consider charging a late fee for time worked beyond your standard closing time. Charging a fee for each fifteen minutes a parent is late will often discourage parents who are trying to take advantage of you. If you use this system, be sure your policy and the fees you will charge are clearly stated during the interview and are written down in your contract with the parent.
Despite your careful preparations, you may still have a parent who is continually late. If this happens, try explaining how the parents behavior is affecting you and your family by using "I messages." Focusing on your own needs is more likely to lead to a solution.
For example, you might say: "When you are late, it prevents me from attending to my own family. My children are really hungry and tired by the time we eat." Or you might say, "Because you were late, I had to cancel the meeting I was planning to go to. What can we do so this doesn't happen again?"
It can also be helpful to point out how the parents behavior affects the child. Children find great comfort in consistency and may find it stressful when their routine is changed. Late parents may find their child difficult to deal with the entire evening. Children also worry when parents are late. Often, parents are not aware of this. Parents may make more of an effort to be on time if you explain this to them.
By using the above techniques, you are less likely to have problems with late parents. Clearly stated policies and good communication are the keys to success!
Reprinted with permission from the National Network for Child Care - NNCC. Todd, C. M. (1992). When parents are late. In Todd, C.M. (Ed.), *Day care center connections*, 1(3), p. 6. Urbana-Champaign, IL: University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Service.
