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Paid childcare

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

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Original poster

Childminders Do you charge for settling in sessions??

12 replies

ifmamaainthappy · 04/04/2013 09:45

It's been a while since i had a new starter, And i cant decide should i charge for settling in sessions?? I haven't had a deposit or a retainer as Mom only came to see me 2 weeks ago and the baby starts in 2 weeks but will be doing a few hours each week previous.

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Kaz18 · 04/04/2013 10:16

I will be offering two free sessions of 2 hours each, any more is to be paid for. You're still working after all.

ReetPetit · 04/04/2013 10:20

i charge by the hour for settling sessions. I have heard of parents getting free settling sessions and then disappearing - not worth working for free imo! You are running a business, put your business hat on

mamamaisie · 04/04/2013 10:21

I have always offered three free session for 2 hours each, but only after I have received a deposit.

Tanith · 04/04/2013 10:59

That's a good idea, Mamamaisie!

I offer up to 5 sessions, including a home visit and, although I haven't yet had anyone taking advantage, I've heard of it happening, too.

I am going to charge a deposit to cover it.

Original poster

ifmamaainthappy · 04/04/2013 11:02

Thanks, interesting, i'm adding to my P & P that theses sessions are chargeable at my Hourly rate Then the parents are only paying for what they use, and after all i pay for my dental check ups

OP posts:

looneytune · 04/04/2013 12:28

No longer childminding but I always offered 3 x 2 hours for free for settling in. Back in September I had 5 new starters all at the same time (part timers) so 30 hours of free childcare to get them all settled in - took some organising so didn't have 2 have very first session on the same day but we managed in the end. I think if I charged then some wouldn't want to do settling in sessions and imo it was very important.

Alliwantisaroomsomewhere · 04/04/2013 13:30

I also do 2 x 2 hours free of charge for settling in, but I like the idea of getting the deposit first and deducting the hours in the event of the parents not taking up the space.

HSMMaCM · 04/04/2013 13:45

I charge for mine. I normally have a daily rate, but do part day charges for settling in. I don't charge for home visits. I always take a deposit.

Seb101 · 04/04/2013 15:06

I'm a nanny, but always get paid for settling in sessions. I think childminders should be the same. If I was a parent I'd except to pay for these sessions. I think those of you offering it free are very generous!

Original poster

ifmamaainthappy · 04/04/2013 15:15

Happy to say have spoke to Mom, and she expected to pay, along with play sessions i visit!! A Good Result. And Thank you all so very much have these on me and

OP posts:

BackforGood · 04/04/2013 15:16

I think it depends how insistent you are on them having 'settling in sessions'.

Suzycb · 04/04/2013 15:48

Free settling in sessions, what a great idea as I've never heard that. I'll implement that on any future Childcare.

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