CM Holidays

[aintnomountainhighenough1]

Hi all
We have a lovely childminder for our DD. We still obviously pay if we are on holiday /don't send DD but she doesn't charge us for days when she is away. Most years she often hasn't taken holidays this years I'm happy for her- she has.
Question- is it normal for childminders not to charge when they are on holiday? I feel bad for her and wonder if I should at least pay half a day rate just as a sign of respect and gratitude for her, as obviously I get paid leave from my job?

She is self employed so no. However, some do have in their contracts that they take x days paid leave but I think they struggle against competition

It's quite normal for CMs not to charge when THEY take holiday although you will always come across one or two who do charge even when they are on holiday.

You sound lovely OP, you can show your appreciation to your CM in other ways.

What a lovely client!

If you want to show your appreciation, a bottle of her favourite drink and a lovely card, detailing why she's amazing would be nice.

I was ofsteded recently and my inspector loved my compliments folder. It's also lovely to read how much I'm appreciated, I have a few lovely cards at the moment which I like to look at when I've had a tough day!

Can I also suggest a little treat for her kids too if she has any. It's wonderful when families acknowledge the sacrifices my family (DD and DH) make for their children to join our family!

Some will charge some wont, no reflection on how much business they have. It maybe she hasn't ever taken holiday before becouse she cant afford to which is why pacey used to recomend a period of paid time off to allow recharging batteries and training.
It's also possible that you pay more over a year for a cm who dosent charge for the time they take than one who does due to higher rates.
If you want to then just pop a voucher or some notes in a card and say treat yourself while your away as we really appreciate all you do.

I agree with jannier, why not put some money or a voucher for somewhere you know she uses regularly in a card that says how much you appreciate her and to treat herself while she is off work.
I have known cms who don’t take holiday because they can’t afford the time off,which must be really hard going for them.

I don't charge, but I'd love to get some cash 😃. You sound lovely. Do whatever you like. She won't be expecting anything.

You sound lovely

Se people don’t get paid for holidays generally but up to them what they out in a contract

You may pay slightly more per hour /day to cover holidays

Agree some vouchers /wine /cock will all be appreciated

Thanks all for this! I give her ( I think pretty nice!) gifts on her bday and xmas and love the idea about writing a card/letter so she could show keep on file/ Ofsted, we couldn't be without her.