Active discussions

Please or to access all these features

Talk
Paid childcare

Discuss everything related to paid childcare here, including childminders, nannies, nurseries and au pairs.

Original poster

Childminder Club: URGENT - PAYMENT FROM PARENTS???

28 replies

HellyBelly · 23/06/2005 07:34

Hi guys

I'm a newly registered childminder and need some help.

I have my first parent coming round to sign contracts this morning but there's one thing I'm not sure about. Do childminders normally ask for a months/weeks money up front before they start minding?

I've been told by some local childminders that you ask up front as you have costs to cover but recently, a couple of people (friends) have questioned me on this so now I'm unsure what to do??

These parents have already had 2 childminders and so are used to how this all works. I just don't want to seem rude asking for money up front.

What do you do???

Thanks

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
Set a reminder
Original poster
HellyBelly · 23/06/2005 08:09

Thanks for your comments Jessicasmummy.

Reason for the not discussing it was because they were only with me for a very short time and wanted to rush through it as they were on their way to get a plane (holiday). I wanted to discuss all this but they just didn't have the time. Today is the day we discuss everything in detail and then sign contracts if everyone is happy. Usually this would be discussed up front.

The mindee won't be starting for a couple of weeks and I meant the money up front from the day they start (if I ask for it up front).

I think I'll see what their previous childminder requested and take it from there this time.

Anyone else able to let me know what they do ( for future contracts?)

OP posts:
KatyMac · 23/06/2005 08:05

With a new parent I ask for a month up front - no discussions or arguments, also a fee for late payment

Payment in advance is required by NCMA and their contracts support this along with an adjudication service if it all goes wrong

Lots of luck

jessicasmummy · 23/06/2005 08:02

As a parent, if up-front fees hadnt been discussed prior to signing contracts, then i wouldnt expect to pay anything... what if the parent turns up with no money?

I would have thought payment on a weekly basis should suffice.