Am I being unreasonable?

[fc79]

Hello, not a big problem I just wanted some opinions as I am a newly registered childminder.

I have advertised and was contacted by a lady who wanted to come and visit me this week with her 1 year old. We both decided today would suit then when I asked what time she said her, DD and DH would be round at 7.45pm! I really dont want them round at that time of night, that is mine and DH's evening to relax, not try and impress prospective parents. We dont have children of our own but for childminders who do I can imagine this would be even more inconvenient as it would be bedtime routine.

I didnt want to sound rude so just asked if they could possibly do before 6.30 so I would still have all my childminding toys and equipment out. That was 4 days ago, finally got a message back today from the DH saying he works late so will have to be 7.45!

Am I being unreasonable not wanting them looking around my house at this time of the evening?!

I have parents round at all times of the day and night. It's entirely up to you. If they come out of working hours, then I put out a small box of toys for their DC, but they accept that it is not the normal set up.

I agree with the nursery comments. When you go and see nursery you do so in 'working hours'. If being a CM is a business then start off as you mean to go along. when I was comparing CM to nursery's it wouldn't have occurred to me to ask a CM to meet me outside core hours!!.. but then I am a nice parent!!

Julesnobrain, we like nice parents, I am lucky enough to have lots of them

I think it is unreasonable, and would't do it.We sit down to family dinner at 7.30, that is precious family time, around a table, every night.

I have seen families on Saturday and Sunday mornings and bank holidays, but evenings after a long day working form 7.30 -6.30 is a big ask.

fc79, I am with you on this one

I do most of my parent meetings outside working hours, otherwise I am trying to talk about contracts, special needs, etc at the same time as looking after other peoples children. I just find it easier. In a nursery, there are other people to keep an eye on the children.

In my experience I have met parents either during the week in working hours and at weekends. Personally I wouldnt want anyone around at 7.45pm, with 4 kids to get ready for bed etc but then you dont have kids of your own. Generally Ive met mums and children during the week and on only one occasion have been asked if dad could meet us at a weekend as both he and my hubby work shifts and they wanted to meet the whole family. Otherwise I have found that the dads dont really have any input on childcare.