A clear and concise Day Care Contract protects parents and guardians as well as the child care providers. The purpose of a Day Care Contract is to define and document the arrangement between the parties so that misunderstandings and surprises regarding the expectations of each party can be avoided. Although it might be tempting to keep things as informal as possible, when issues such as child care fees and hours of operation are involved, it is important to put the information in writing. For example, having a written Day Care Contract protects the child care provider in the event a problem, such as nonpayment, arises. Without putting your agreement in writing, it may be difficult to prove the substance of your oral agreement. Any issues that you want to be binding on the parents should be included in the Contract. For example, child care fees, due dates, and policies regarding child or provider absences, holidays, and vacations, should be included in the Contract. When deciding what to include in your Day Care Contract, remember that you set the rules for your child day care program. Include provisions that you need to make your operation efficient and profitable, but you must also keep a balance between what would be included in the "ideal" contract and what the competitive marketplace will bear. You should check your state and local regulations governing child care providers for other provisions to include in your Day Care Contract. Child care regulations range from pre-admission interviews with parents to methods for properly sanitizing food preparation and diapering areas. The Day Care Contract does not attempt to address all of the laws and regulations governing child care providers. Please note that your state and local child care regulations must be followed carefully even if they differ from the recommendations or suggestions in this program. |