Childminder Club: URGENT - PAYMENT FROM PARENTS???

[HellyBelly]

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

Alibubbles - I know this is going to sound really thick but what would the deposit bit be for? Is it in case they do a runner without giving notice?

Pindy - thanks about my website!

Message withdrawn

Right, I will have a good old think about what I have in my contracts in the future. Thanks for the advice