It is important to have a strong relationship with your child care provider. Since the provider is responsible for watching your child for several hours a day, it is important that you develop a partnership. To help build and nurture a relationship with your provider, here are some tips.
Honor Appointments and Schedules
Your child care provider is responsible for more than just your child. The provider's time is just as important as yours is. If you have an appointment with the provider, show up on time. If you are unable to make it, call the provider ahead of time and reschedule. By honoring your appointments, you are showing the provider respect.
In addition to keeping appointments, you also need to be sure to drop off and pick up your child as agreed. Child care providers also have other responsibilities, such as children of their own. If you need to drop off your child early or pick him or her up late, ask ahead of time.
Respect the Rules
Most child care providers give parents a printed set of rules that must be followed when a child is enrolled. If you received those rules, read them carefully and ensure that your child understands those which apply to him or her. At the same time, you need to remember those which apply to you. The provider's rules are in place to ensure your child is safe and receives the care that he or she deserves. By breaking those rules, you make it harder for the provider to care for all of the enrolled children.
Communicate with the Provider
One of the most important things you can do to build a sound relationship with your provider is to communicate. The provider needs to know what is going on with your child so that plans can be made to accommodate any situation. For instance, if your child is teething, the provider needs to know so that a plan to deal with fussiness and difficulty sleeping can be made.
You should also consider scheduling a meeting with the provider every few months so that you can discuss your child's care. Pickup and drop off times are good for quick conversations, but it is difficult to discuss issues in depth. Try to work within the provider's schedule for the meeting date and time.
Talk to your child care provider about other ways you can build a solid working relationship. If you're currently searching for child care services, look for one in your area like The Cottage School.
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