Illness

* Many children experience some illness shortly after entering a new child care setting; this is normal and they will adjust and develop immunities.

* Any time a new child is introduced, a new round of illness may occur.

* I am isolated much of the time. Offer to do errands if you can (for instance, if you know you are going to the Post Office, ask me if I need stamps).

* Talk to me about other things; your job, my interests, my children, your interests, etc.

* Childcare is a high stress job. I will need to get out on occasion, to run errands or just take a break. I will always use qualified, trained substitutes/assistants that you will get the opportunity to know. I'll also try to let you know in advance when I will be out of the house.

* Let me know of any interesting resources you see "out there".

* Mixed age groups teach children to take care of each other and themselves.

* This is a natural learning environment. I am teaching your child new concepts each and every day. The learning tasks are sometimes determined by wht happens that day; weather, etc.

* Home setting offers children a variety of activities in each different area of the house.

* Self directed play offers children and opportunity to do what interests them, in a loving environment.

* My home is especially valuable to children because of my responsive attitude. I love them--and not just during my childcare hours. If your family needs extra or after-hours care, please talk with me about it. I may be able to help.

* Your family plus my family = our family; let's work together to support each other and make it a positive experience.

* We are partners, co-parents in raising the children in my home. We need to strive to work together; to avoid competition, jealousy and judgment of each other. The more we work together, the healthier environment will be for the children.

* Please communicate any changes in your child's home life; any extra stress affects your child and their care. I need to know what they might be trying to express so that I can offer support.

* Once a year (or more) my child care home closes so I can spend valuable time with my family; which makes it a stronger family in which you bring your child. I will need your support for my vacation time.

* Try not to linger too long when you pick up your children (unless you're helping or we need something to discuss). Remember my closing time and that my next priority is to get dinner for my own family.

* My time with my family is important, please respect as much as possible.

* Acknowledge my children for sharing; care for them as I care for your child. Make them happy that you are a part of the family.

* I belong to a few professional and child advocacy organizations and periodically taken enrichment courses, and sometimes we need support from parents. I would want to be able to ask you to write letters or make phone calls in support of providers, children and famliies.

* Sometimes I need to be gone in order to continue my education and training and to network with other professionals. I will need your support in taking this time off--to "refill my cup" and prevent burnout.

* If you plan to keep your child out of care for family reasons, appointments, illness, etc., please expect to pay for that day with out resentment. You will need to understand that my overhead and budget remain the same whether your child is present or not.

* When you or your spouse receive a raise, I would like you to share some of it with me. I support with your job (s) in that you know that your child is well cared for, enabling you to concentrate on your work.

* If you have paid holiday at work, I expect the same paid holiday.

I would like to thank you for taking the time to read this and if you have anything to comment about, or add please feel free to talk to me about it. I am open to just about anything, so if we communicate with each other we wil have a very valuable relationship.

Yours Truly,