MOST parents know the struggle of finding childcare that fits your family’s needs.
So if you want to guarantee a place with your preferred nursery or daycare, there are a few common mistakes to avoid.
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A childminder revealed the three types of parents she refuses to take on as clients in a TikTok video.
The professional explained that she usually knows who she is and isn’t going to accept within minutes of giving a show around tour.
She revealed that any parent who asks her to “compromise” her policies, pricing, or hours is an immediate no.
According to the childminder, parents have often disputed having to pay while they are on holidays.
Read More On Childminding
She pointed out that the child is still taking up a spot in the group, whether they are present or not, meaning this money cannot be made up while they are away.
People have also demanded discounts for picking their children up early or a change in opening hours to suit their schedules.
“This whole ‘just for me mentality’ is very damaging long-term because they view themselves as better than all of my other clients and I’m not here for that,” the TikToker said.
She added that it was also indicative of their lack of respect towards her.
The childminder pointed out that demanding changes to how someone runs their business, especially when you first meet them, is rude and inconsiderate.
She also revealed that she does not take on parents who issues with being punctual.
This goes from their very first meeting, with the professional revealing that anyone who is even five or 10 minutes late is already in her bad books.
Of course, she said she is willing to make exceptions if parents communicate with her but those who shoe a disregard for her time do not earn their child a place with her.
She added that anyone who rearranges a show around meeting more than once is also scratched off her potential client list.
The TikToker pointed out that this scattered attitude and lack of organisation hints that these parents would be the ones guilty of showing up late to collect their children.
Finally, she shared her most “controversial” take on parents looking for childcare.
What help is available to parents for childcare costs?
CHILDCARE can be a costly business. Here is how you can get help.
- 30 hours of free childcare – Parents of three and four-year-olds can apply for 30 hours of free childcare a week.
To qualify you must work at least 16 hours a week at the national living or minimum wage and earn less than £100,000 a year. - Tax credits – For children under 20, some families can get help with childcare costs.
- Tax-free childcare – Available to working families and the self-employed, for every £8 you put in the government will add an extra £2.
The childminder revealed that she is often hesitant to take on anyone who says: “I’ve looked around every childcare in the area.”
While she acknowledged that parents just want what is best for their child, she also pointed out that you need to have some idea of your personal preference.
She gave examples of how vastly different nurseries and daycares can be from one another, with some focusing on indoor activities, while other like her emphasise an outdoor approach.
“I want to work with people who are passionate about my approach to childcare,” she explained.
TikTok users shared their thoughts on the advice in the comments section.
“I love my childminder, I have the biggest respect for her and beyond grateful. I would never question her policies or prices,” wrote one parent.
“These are the rules, don’t like it find somewhere else,” said another viewer.
“Boundaries are so important I feel,” commented a third person.
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