Expectations
When signing up with Ana’s House Day Care, you will be asked to review a contract the outlines the policies, terms and conditions required of all parents and children attending Ana’s House. In addition to this contract, we have a few expectations that apply not just to our services, but to any one with whom you contract child care services. Please find below a general list of the expectations we have for clients at Ana’s House. Together, we can create a terrific partnership that will be beneficial for all parties involved – the provider, the parent and the child.
- Open communication
Explain clearly and carefully your wishes and expectations about how your child will be cared for. Provide updates on problems and progress that your child is making. Provide us with information about your child’s routine, activities and preferences. Good communication helps parents and providers work together in the best interest of children. - Agreement on terms or arrangements
You should fully understand the expectations of Ana’s House and what you as a parent are agreeing to. A written agreement between the provider and parents is required for the benefit of both parties. If something is unclear, ask us! You need to be sure to fully understand the policy before signing the contract. We should be able to enforce contracted policies with no questions asked once the contract is signed. - Honesty and trust
Be honest about how you believe the arrangement is working, whether you and your child are happy with our care. Although you need to be vigilant in order to safeguard your child, you should still trust your child care provider to do the best for your child. Show your trust by asking questions rather than jumping to conclusions when apparent problems develop. - Advance notice of and agreement to any changes
Providers have to earn a living, too. They deserve advance notice of any change in service ~ including, but not limited to change of hours, termination of service, schedule changes, etc. - Pick up on time and follow through on all agreements
Child care providers are working people. Providers have personal lives. They should be able to expect that you will pick up your child at the agreed upon time. Late fees should be paid without question. Late pick ups should always be preceded by a phone call with the provider. Never assume your provider can work longer than the contracted time. - Bring children to child care only when they can fully participate in activities
We have a sickness policy that specifically bans children with certain levels of illness from attending Ana’s House. Never bring a child whom you know is not feeling well enough to be away from home and family. - Payment in full and on time
Just as you have time sensitive payments like rent and groceries, we do too! So please make arrangements to see that we receive payment on time. - Respect
Realize that taking care of children is a job and that we are working parent like you. Understand that the child care provider is not your employee, rather a person from whom you are contracting services. As you know, full day child care not an easy job and a child care provider is not “just a baby sitter.” She is one of the most important people in your child’s life and in yours, too. - No jealousy
Try not to be jealous of your child’s attachment to child care providers. Children who spend hours every day with a provider come to love that person. That love, though, doesn’t diminish the love the child feels for you. Don’t feel that you have to compete with your child care provider for your child’s affection. - No surprises
Your provider shouldn’t learn on Friday that you have decided to take change your work hours effective Monday. We should not have to learn that you expect her to provide services in the absence of another (i.e. provide transportation to school). Child care providers don’t like surprises any better than parents do. So please keep us in the loop!