Pick-Up Time Problem Solved

I'm in Troy, Alabama speaking to a group of family child care providers on Contracts and Reducing Risks. One provider is explaining a problem she has at pick-up time. When one mother arrives to pick up her infant she brings along her older child who is always out of control. The provider wonders, "Am I liable if this child is injured or hurts another child?"

Probably yes, I answer. You are responsible for what happens while you are caring for children, even if the child is not enrolled in your program. I suggest that she tell the parent that her child's behavior cannot be tolerated and that if it doesn't change she will terminate their contract. Another provider in the room then speaks up, "Why don't you tell the parent to pick up her older child after, not before, she picks up her infant?" Sometimes the best answer is the simplest one.

How would you handle this situation?

Tom Copeland - www.tomcopelandblog.com

Image credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsayshaver/3325940191

For more information, see my book Family Child Care Legal and Insurance Guide.