Help. DS hates new nursery and I can't send him. How can I terminate contract without huge fees?

[Indiagrace94]

We moved and enrolled my DS into a new nursery. At first thought his upset was due to the move, but now weeks on he's even more distraught at going in. He is only 3 and he is beyond terrified at it. Tells us they are mean to him and it is 'not good'. Multiple times a day he needs reassurance he isn't going there and screams if i mention it, or the names of the room ladies.
He say's they are mean and shout at him. I know he is only 3, but this is not normal for him and he has never been like this. Especially for so long every day (for weeks, several times a day). He even has nightmares of 'them' as well.
TBH, when I pick him up I get a strange vibe from them too. I do not feel they are looking after him as he should be, and feel concerned.

Any advice on how I pull him out mid-contract/ challenge the contract?
It doesn't specify what they are expected to do in it, so I am wondering what is generally considered 'normal' in childcare.
Thanks!

Do you have a contract? Can’t you just tell them you’re leaving? Sometimes there’s a notice period but it won’t be more than a month.

Definitely move him if he’s so traumatised and you don’t get a good vibe.

Surely you just say he won't be going back.

You are doing the right thing.

Your contract should have a section on notice periods and fees. If it doesn't, it's a crap nursery but I think you know that already. Most childcare providers I know of expect a month's notice and payment for that month whether your child is there or not.

I wouldn't expect anything more than a month's notice - so if you pull him out today, you'll have to pay the next month's fees. You are totally doing the right thing - all I would do is email and say he won't be returning, tell them why as you've done here, then cancel your DD and see what bill they send.

This is what I want to do. And will do. Only the contract doesn't state 'terms' and tbh i would feel prudent to challenge remaining fees, if they are not creating a safe space for children, which, I assume they should be?

I’ve used 3 different nurseries since having my kiddos & all of them had a months notice. So I’d almost certainly expect to pay a months fees from the date you give notice. You could challenge it I suppose but it’s their word against a 3 year olds.. you’ll probably not win. I’d just pay & move on I think! But I’m not one for confrontation really..