Jackpot!

I sincerely hope I am hearing that title line a lot in the next few days. For those who don't already know, I am enjoying the beautiful blue, clear skylines of Las Vegas today! Yes, I will gloat and tell you that it is 43 degrees Celsius, clear skies, and fun, fun, fun. I have escaped all the rain and cool temperature of Southwestern Ontario for the next few days.

Oh, and did you know you drink for free when you are playing in the casino? Man, I have to find a way to implement that premise at home. Drinking while working sure would make the day go by quicker. Not to mention it would make the day far more entertaining. I bet the kids wouldn't even get on my nerves!

I will try my darnedest to win big while I'm here. I wouldn't ask you all to hold your breath though! It's never a good idea to pass out with a group of kids all under five in your care. Who knows how you might wake up? My guess is diapered, soothered, and wearing princess dress-up clothes! Just trust me - don't hold your breath for me!

Enjoy the rest of your day, Ladies. I know I will enjoy mine. And for those of you also enjoying a long weekend at the end of this week then I say, "Hooray!". Make the best of these last few summer weekends left.

See you all Monday! Oh.....Jackpot!!!!




For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Short Timer's Syndrome

Yep, I'm afflicted with Short Timer's Syndrome. It's a strange illness. It seems to accompany notice of termination of services. The responsible party matters not. The only factor that matters is the short amount of time left with a particular child.

A few weeks ago I was informed that my services would no longer been needed effective the end of August for a child who has been with me just over a year. Apparently she is off to Grandma's for free daycare. Goody for them. Free daycare with a relative. What could be better?

My Short Timer's Syndrome kicked in this morning. This child is two and a half and very babied by her parents. She is still carried into care every morning. They take off her shoes for her, pull her soother out of her mouth, baby talk their good-byes to her and generally make me want to pull my hair out by the time they walk out the door. Nothing like encouraging your child to never become an independent entity. However, I started to feel my syndrome resurface when mom announced to me that they will start potty training now. Oh really? How convenient. Am I the only one who sees something amiss with this scenario?

I am an advocate for getting kids potty trained early. In fact, I believe that kids go far too long these days being treated like babies when they are capable of so much more. However, this family obviously does not share my sentiment in all areas of independence. I also had their older child in care once and she did not potty train until she was nearly three years old. But, apparently something in their perceptions of developmentally appropriate independence and potty training has changed in...oh...the last few weeks? Hey....wait a minute....isn't that when they gave me notice?! Yeah, I'm no dummy. I know what's going on here.

It amazes me what parents will suddenly expect from you when they know they will no longer have your services at their beckon call. Obviously, I am the only person in her life who requires her to take off her own shoes, clean up her own toys, and use her words instead of the whiny dribble she employs in communication with her parents. Why not then get your last opportunity to have Judy do some more of the dirty work? Yes, how convenient for Judy's last days with this child be spent in accomplished potty training. How wonderful for Grandma to be handed the labours of my love and hard work and pee-stained carpets.

As I stood there nodding and smiling at mom's announcement my Short Timer's Syndrome was carrying on a conversation in my head all by itself. It was chuckling with the absurdity of it all. Or was it really laughing at mom and her stupidity? Does she honestly expect the daycare provider to whom you have just given notice to do all the hard work of potty training just to hand her off and reap no rewards? Well, I guess she does. Or, maybe the jokes on me but you got to give her credit for trying.

So, yeah, I'm going to work very hard at potty training in the next month. Uh, huh. Yep. Whatever you want to believe. Besides, I have a disability and can't be held responsible for my inadequacies. Nope, it's not me talking. It's that damned Short Timer's Syndrome.

For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Contracts - The Providers' Insurance Policy

A question was asked in the comment section of yesterday's blog. The reader wanted to know how often a contract should be amended and distributed to parents. I would like to address this question in today's article.

First, in my humble opinion, if you are operating without a contract then you are like a nesting duck who will soon become dinner for the fox. Now I understand someone will come along and leave a long comment regarding the fact that they do not have a contract and have managed to stay in business for years. Well, great. I'm glad you have either found the largest group of golden parents on the planet or really don't mind being taken advantage. Or, perhaps you do not regard your daycare commitments as a business. Either way, like I have always said, if it works for you then great. If you're happy, I'm happy.

Most providers I know have not had the luxury to meet and retain a home daycare full of golden parents. Apparently, in nearly every part of Canada and the United States, golden parents are a rare commodity. There are few parents, without the parameters of a contract, who are willing to sign over to you a cheque for weekly fees when they are off jet setting with their family during one of their fourteen weeks of vacation this year. Nope, it just doesn't happen. So, to ensure that we can still afford to buy our family hot dogs while the jet setters are enjoying steak dinners we have a contract. It's our protection - our insurance policy.

If you have read all the post in this blog you will undoubtedly already know what specifics should be included in the contract. But, when do these contract go out? How often do we renew contracts? Do we renew them at all? Do we negotiate renewal? These are all questions I hear time and time again.

It is my opinion that when a family signs onto care they also agree to and sign a contract. This contract should have an expiry date of no longer than one year. In my care, if a family signs on to care in October the expiry date of that contract will be December 31st of the same year. I use the last day of the calendar year as an expiry date of any of the contracts I hold with a daycare family. I like to renew the contracts of the entire group every January 1st. For me, this date is just one measure to ensure that all families are operating under the same fees, rules and polices at the same time. Amending and renewing contracts throughout the year is far too much administration and confusion for me. The only time I would amend a contract throughout the year is if a parent's care arrangement changed. And, at that time the old contract is null and void and you are given the opportunity then to add or delete policies, and change fees at that time too.

Every December 1st my daycare families can expect to be handed to them the contract for the new year. I increase my rates every year by one dollar. The new fee is always included in the contract. However, over the years I have amended everything from my illness policy to the parents paying for their vacation time. Basically, I amend anything that has caused me issue over the previous year along with anything I deem to no longer be working to my advantage.

When I hand out the new contracts I also include a cover later thanking my families for their continued trust in caring for their children. I point out that a few changes are included in the contract and might even give some details and reasons for those changes. But, the most important aspect of the cover letter is the following line:

"Please sign and return your 2010 contract by December 15th, 2009. Should I not receive your signed contract by the aforementioned date I will assume the terms of the contract are not agreeable to you and I will take it upon myself to requisition your child's spot to a family from my waiting list".

This is an important sentence. It's jam-packed with innuendo. First, it states that there is a deadline. But, second, and most importantly, it clearly states to the parents that the contract is not negotiable and that failure to agree means they no longer have a space in your daycare. Is this pushy? Undeniably! But, business is business. Why do you think the most successful companies on the planet have contracts? Because contracts work! Contracts protect the interests of the company. Protect your interest too.

Around September of every year I start to think more and more about my upcoming contract amendments. I start to make small amendments to specific sections. I start to think about the future. I forecast who might be leaving for school the next year, who might go on maternity leave and who might jump ship with news of the new contract. You have to plan. You have to forecast in your head the possibilities of what the new year might bring to your daycare. But one thing you should not do is negotiate your contract. There is no room for compromise.

Amend your contracts annually. Start thinking about them early and change things that no longer work to your advantage. Give your contract ample thought and consideration. After all, just like the parents who will agree to it, you too will be living by that contract for the next year.



For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Hindsight Is Picture Perfect

I have learned a lot in my years providing daycare. There are many things I did when starting out that I wouldn't spend a minute considering now days. One of those things is providing flexible care. Never, in even my most desperate time, would I ever consider taking on a flexible family. But, then again, hind sight is 20/20 and we learn from our mistakes.

When I was first starting out I encountered a neighbour who required care for her twelve month old daughter. This family needed care on a flexible basis. The father works shift work and therefore would be able to provide care for his own child on days that he wasn't working. Just hearing that they wanted me to care for their child deafened me to all the rest of the details. Flex care? Shift work? Ah, heck, who cares. I got my first child! Whohoo!

Sigh...those were the days.

It didn't take long for me to learn that flex care really translates into this: "We only need you when we need you. And of course, we will not need you on any statutory holidays or our own vacation time. We also won't need you when Grandma is coming from overseas for a month at a time."

Flex care in short is a bitch. It wasn't long after taking on this family that I realized that flexible care is really a nice word for glorified babysitting. But, hey, I am a woman of my commitments. I made a commitment to care and damn it, I was going to carry through on the deal. Yes, I was naive.

Five and a half years later I still have this family in care. Instead of one child they now have two. Instead of the oldest just being another "daycare kid" she is my daughter's best friend and most regarded confidante. The parents are truly wonderful people and I rarely have policy issues with them. But still, they are "flex family" and in some small part of my head I resent that fact.

I am a hard ass when it comes to the business side of my daycare. Perhaps my resentment stems from the fact that this family is not held to the same set of rules as every other family who comes through my doors. I would never accept non-payment of statutory holidays with any other family. In fact, they all know better than to even ask. Why then, can I not get it straight with flex family?

The answer lies in emotion. If I was really honest with myself in the quiet moments of the day I would admit that it all comes down to my daughter. How does a mother remove the lifetime friend of a six year old? Granted, six years to us might seem trivial but to my daughter it is all of her memorable life. This daycare girl has always been part of her life. There has been no time in my daughter's memory that she hasn't had the support and friendship of this child. How, in good conscience does a mother sever that tie simply because it costs me $4000 a year in lost fees? Is there a price tag on my daughter's happiness? Am I willing to pay the price so she can reap the reward? Apparently I am or I would have terminated long, long ago.

I have decided to find a middle ground. There is a manner in which to please both myself and not sacrifice the bond between two little girls. I have decided, after much thought that this family will be subjected to some new policies come contract renewal time. Effective January first I will expect a minimum commitment of paid days per week. I will also expect paid statutory holidays.

Do I risk losing this family? Perhaps. Although, in my heart of hearts I don't think they'll go anywhere. And if they do then I am not the asset I deem myself to be. And they will be placing money as priority over their own daughter's friendship as well. I can control what I do but it stops there. I can't control parents and their own set of priorities. But somewhere in there I hope we can find a middle ground. For the first time in their daycare years the parents will finally pay what is fair to their dedicated provider of five years and their provider will be far less resentful. And hopefully, we will protect the friendship and love between two little girls.

For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Rules Are Rules

As daycare providers many of us have policies and procedures or "contracts" that are signed and agreed upon with parents at the onset of care. These contracts outline the expectations of the standard of care. We all expect parents to abide by the contract. In short, we expect them to follow the rules - our rules. And, for the most part, many providers are not willing to negotiate or amend the terms of the contract. It's a take it or leave it scenario.

When then, do the parents get a say in the standard of care? Parents get to choose the standard of care they deem most appropriate and agreeable when they interview various providers and choose the one who most fits their needs and philosophy. By finding the best match possible they control the standard of care. And, assuming the provider was honest and forthright in the interview and continues to provide the standard of care as stated in the contract the parents should feel secure in this agreement being fulfilled.

There is an additional standard of care that benefits parents and their children as well. These are government mandated standards set forth by provincial, state, or city governments as to what is deemed acceptable. These mandates are law and control everything from numbers to nutrition. Therefore, any provider who chooses to provide daycare services from home also must bear the responsibility of following the rules pertaining to that occupation.

Time and time again I will read about providers who provide care contrary to the laws either by choice or ignorance. And, the gold standard and rule of the law is that 'ignorance of the law is no excuse'. Daycare providers, like any other profession must, if they wish to be taken seriously and reap the benefits of the best of their colleagues, follow the letter of the law. Doctors, lawyers, and dentists have laws and rules set forth by their specific college of practitioners to follow. The offense for deviating from the terms set forth in their licensing agreements is to lose their license, and ability to practice. These professions know and understand the laws pertaining to their business because their life's work and continued employment depends on it.

It makes me shutter to read on-line about a provider who has no knowledge of the laws in her geographical location. How does one provide a service and own a business without knowing her responsibilities inside and out? How does one facilitate change and improve the reputation of their profession if they choose to be blind to its regulations? One can simply not be professional and live in ignorant bliss at the same time.

If you do not know the rules pertaining to age ratios, numbers of children allowed in care, nutrition, subsidy, licensing, insurance, and space requirements in your area I encourage you to learn them today. It's your job. How can you possibly offer a quality standard of care to the children if you are not following the rules? And, more importantly, how can you expect the parents to follow your rules when you do not follow those that are set forth for your profession?

Do you have the area baby warehouse on your street? Do you know providers who offer care at half the price for twice the children? If so I encourage you to do yourself, the children and all providers a favour and speak to that provider. Call the ministry if you have to. The best police of any profession are the professionals themselves. Be the watch dog. The profession will thank you for it.





For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Freaking People

People never cease to amaze me. Just when you think you have heard everything once again you are stupefied by the behaviour of others.

Tuesday, my sister embarked on a new career - that of a home daycare provider. She welcomed into her home three siblings whose last provider left them in the lurch. The parents seemed pleased, signed on to care immediately and started the day after the interview. Upon arrival on day one the mother handed over the contract, cheque for the deposit and her children. She bid them all farewell and was off to work for the day.

Sometime after she left my sister reviewed the signed paperwork only to find that the parents had taken it upon themselves to add a hand written addendum to the contract. It read to the effect that they agreed to the terms of the contract with the exception of paying for stats, their children's sick days and any of their own vacation time. Of course, my sister being my sister and sharing our fierce DNA called me on the phone to vent about the insult of a parent assuming, wrongly, that they were setting the terms of the contract.

My sister is a strong woman. This attribute would prove to be advantageous in her first daycare confrontation. Upon arrival to pick up her children, my sister confronted the mother to inform her that the contract was not negotiable and that care in her business required that all parents abide by the terms of the contract. The mother appeared surprised but agreed that she would pay all fees regardless of attendance.

When the outcome was conveyed to me by my sister there were virtual high-fives all around. I was quite proud that on day one of her daycare career she had more back bone than a lot of providers who have the advantage of years of service. She did well.

Incredibly the same mother arrived yesterday to inform my sister that she "couldn't afford to pay a daycare provider $75 a day to care for her three children". Instead, she informed my sister that they would only be using half day care and in return would grace her with a whopping $12.50 a day. WHAT? Who the hell are these people? Why do parents think that they make the rules?

Gosh, I wished I lived in the same town as my sister. I would love to knock on the door of this parent and take them on a field trip. Perhaps we would start at Wal-mart. We could find the cookie section, locate a box or Oreos, take half of them out of the box and then proceed to the check out. Certainly the cashier or the Walton family wouldn't have a problem with us paying for only half the box. After all, we only brought a loonie and can't afford the whole package. After leaving Wal-mart cookieless we would venture over to Rogers Cable. We would notify the cable company that although we have signed on to their basic cable package in the future we would only be paying for half the channels. Afterall, we don't really enjoy the Weather Network or the CityPulse ticker channels anyway. And last but not least on our field trip we would stop by the city clerk's office. Maybe they would see our point when we explain that although the garbage limit is four bags we only put out two a week so we will expect a break on our taxes. Oh, and nope, we don't use all of the city streets, only those on our way to work and back so cut us a break there too.

I'm guessing that if this daycare parent read this blog post she would see how ridiculous the above scenarios appear. I have no doubt that she would agree that those situations would never fly with Wal-mart, Rogers or City Hall. So why then, should they apply to home daycare providers? I love having my garbage picked up. I love being able to watch Oprah via Rogers Cable. But a daycare provider cares for your KIDS! Do you really think it's a good idea to low ball the person who is responsible for the care and consideration of your most precious treasure? Wake up people! Get your priorities straight.

So, to that parent I have this to say........

You can't "afford" care at a rate that is fair and reasonable to be paid to the person who cares for your children? Can you still "afford" cable T.V.? Do you still enjoy your Timmies coffee in the morning? Do you buy those Oreos at Wal-mart? Are you wearing this season's sandals when you have ten more in the closet at home? Because if you can't "afford" to pay a daycare provider for the important work she does then you should not be arriving at her house asking her for a discount stepping out of your gas guzzling 2009 SUV, wearing your new shoes, and sipping your Timmies coffee. Let's get serious here.

Money is about priorities. For the most part and with few exceptions most families who complain about the cost of care just don't have their priorities straight. I guess it comes down to this; what's more important - your new sandals or the welfare of your children? I sincerely hope for your children's sake that you make the right choice.

I hope this mom's ass recovers from the mark the door left as she felt is slam against her backside. I also wish her the best in locating her next babysitter. Because anyone who holds on to her children operating by her rules will always be 'Just The Babysitter'. Good luck to her.

Oh, and Stephanie........good going, girl! Hang in there. Most parents are great you just started out at the bottom of the barrel. There is no way but up from here.




For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Post No. 100

Ah, I did it! I am so proud to announce that today marks my one hundredth post here on this blog. Over the past three months I have blogged about snot, poop, tantrums, tears, payments, contracts, parents, parenting, napping, and much, much more. It's been quite a journey for me as a person and as a daycare provider. In fact, blogging has been the most effective outlet I have ever had the pleasure to experience.

I used to feel daily bouts of overwhelming frustration with all of those things that come along with the job of daycare provider. There were times during the day I wanted to put on my shoes and run far, far away. I longed to call up every parent and tell them I quit. My head was in control and my emotions were its victim. It was nearly paralyzing. I knew that I needed to find a way to vent and scream and swear if I had to. I need to know and convey to others that I was not crazy or alone or on the brink of insanity. And you know, I think I have accomplished that.

Every day I open up my email and find a note from some daycare provider who has taken the time to thank me for the blog. Often these providers will recount to me their darkest days and how, for the first time since embarking on their daycare careers, they feel "normal". They no longer feel that they have to bottle up the those feelings that have been suppressed for so long. They now realize that it's okay to just be them. To be open, honest, and not apologize for it. We are not the ever rosy-cheeked, Pollyanna, Miss Positivity that every parent anticipates finding when they search for a provider. We are not the exception but rather the rule. Are there rosy-cheeked, ever optimistic, in the depths of diarrhea, daycare providers out there? Of course there are! These personality types find service in every type of business, in every continent on the planet. But know this......they are the exception.

I never, in my wildest dreams, anticipated that by discovering an avenue to clear my racing thoughts that I would in return be of service to others. And it's a damned good feeling to know that perhaps, in some small way you have made a difference to someone. Because, unfortunately, in this job that we all do we are not thanked enough. We are taken for granted, take advantage of and used when needed and discarded when not. We work too hard for too little money. We put in more hours than most but never see overtime pay. We give up our homes, our hearts and often our security to be of service to others. We give all that we have but they always want more. In short, every one's needs come before our own. We are always last in line and the line gets longer every day.

Woman are underestimated and undervalued. And at the bottom of the spectrum of value is the title, "daycare provider". It has been commonplace throughout history that those who care for our children are least appreciated, understood or regarded. It's just a given that this is our role. Any area where a segment of society is engendered with a role of rigid boundaries and expectations it's nearly impossible to change the mindset that has evolved along side that reality. But it can be done. I think it is time for women, all women, provider or not to set the record straight.

The job of childcare is important - perhaps more important than that of the leader of the free world, the neurosurgeon, the police officer or the best-selling author. It is more paramount and has more affect than any of those jobs combined. Because, without a special person to guide, correct and support you in your early years there will be little a person can change in the world later. Read the biographies of any great person and you will realize there was always at least one special mentor or caretaker during their childhood who profoundly contributed to the characteristics of the adult they became. It's not up for debate. It's fact. The early years environment and interaction of all children does shape who they will later become as adults. Therefore, know, regardless of the naysayers, those who view you as the babysitter, that you are making a difference in the world.

Why is it that those who are admired most in the world are the same people who make immediate impressions throughout their work? We too can, and do, change the world every single day. The difference is that the world will not be privy to our work for many years to come. We are helping to shape and support caring, empathetic, compassionate future adults. Do not underestimate or deny this truth to yourself or anyone else. What you do matters.

Please decide to just be you. Decide today to no longer pretend to be more than you are. Because what you are - a daycare provider - has far more impact on the world than most people can ever attest to having accomplished. And don't apologize for your misgivings. This job, this very hard, demanding and consequential job, requires that you speak the truth. One can not do their best work when harbouring feelings of inadequacy, resentment, anxiety and a sense of false self.

I sincerely hope, that over the last one hundred posts you have enjoyed the humour and sarcasm but have also taken with you a valuable lesson in just being one's self. If you are not being your true self then how can you teach others to hold dear that attribute themselves? Your job is important. So walk the walk and talk the talk. Your head will thank you for it today and the children in your care one day in the future.




For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

The Dropping Price Of Gold

Do I look stupid? Seriously, take a look at the pic on the right. Do I look stupid? Okay, okay, that's not really me but trust me when I tell you that the mirror did not say "stupid" this morning when I was getting ready.

I posted previously about Golden family children. Yes, it was my heart's desire to have golden family return to care. I am currently caring for oldest golden child during her Montessori school break. Late last week I sent out a mass email informing everyone that I had one spot coming available in September. Within five minutes I received a reply from golden mom asking me for the spot for her youngest child with whom she is still on mat leave. Now, all of this sounds stellar until you know the rest of the story.

First of all, they don't need the spot until February of next year. I don't generally hold a spot that far out but I was willing to give it some thought. It would mean an easy six months for me to regroup and not be firing with all guns. However, this idea which seemed plausible quickly turned into an insult.

It appears that they will only send their youngest to me for care. Their oldest, whom I cared for from twelve to eighteen months was pulled from care some years ago to attend Montessori. And, I might add I was not made abreast of this information until two months previous to her departure. In reality, had I known they intended to send their child to their fancy school when she was of entry age I would never have accepted them into care. But, live and learn.

Anyway, the plot thickens. Over the past few days I have come to learn a few things:

1. The oldest will still go to Montessori with the expectation that I will care for her when Montessori is on break,

2. The youngest will not start care for six months past the date of my available opening,

3. The parents are still undecided as to whether or not they will send the youngest to Montessori when she turns eighteen months old.

Yeah, right. I just fell off the turnip truck last night. Why would any provider take on a child and spend all of that time and stress in the transition period only to hand them off to Montessori six months later to start all over with a new child? And, I'm no dummy. If you duped me once before with this scenario why would you ever suspect I would fall for it again?

Not.....gonna.....happen.

I honestly have to wonder about people. Here is a couple - lovely people with great kids but even they don't understand or appreciate our business. And, even though they praise me for a job well done and trust me enough to place yet another of their children in my care at such a tender age they still just view the daycare provider as a commodity to use when it suits them.

We, as providers are often accused of not caring enough. We are accused of being too business-minded. Who could blame us? Are the parents too "business-minded" for doing what is in their best interest by transitioning a child to daycare and then pulling them after all the hard work is done? Nope, I don't know a single parent who would see the parents of these children as being at fault.

I'm the first to admit that daycare is a business first and foremost. I provide a service and you pay for that service. My title starts and ends at provider and the parents' title at client. So, business hat on I will inform these parents that I will not hold a spot for them. I will fill that spot with a family who I at least have a better chance at maintaining for the long haul. It's just business.

Judy looks out for Judy. And why not? If I don't look out for me then who will? The lesson is to never invest in gold because you never know when the stocks will drop. I don't emotionally invest in the families I care for. I don't see it as a prerequisite to quality care. Most families certainly have no allegiance to their provider. They might say they do. They might act like they do. But when the going gets tough, the dollar matters, and it suits them best they will always look out for themselves first. And so should you.

For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Chocolate Martinis and Good Friends

My name is Judy and I am an Internet addict. There, I said it. This fact dawned on me this morning. You see, last night I lost all sense of reality and mistakenly believed that having a few drinks with an overnight guest and then playing poker (wherein I lost miserably) until the early hours of the morning was a good idea. I mean, really. Did I just dream that I experienced my late teens and early twenties? Because if memory serves me correctly the mornings following those nights never seemed to be quite as fun as the festivities that precipitated the moment the alarm clock went off. Ah, live and learn....and learn....and learn....and learn.

As if drinking gallons of chocolate martinis followed by a mere four hours of sleep wasn't enough I encouraged my stupidity by asking my brother-in-law to revamp my computer. Great. Good going, Judy. So, not only are you hung over, tired, and irritable you also have no contact with the outside world. Yeah, intelligence is not my strong suit. After all, if I was that intelligent I would have stopped at two martinis, ten dollars under at poker and ten o'clock rather than two. Sigh.

If you have ever greeted the day with the stunned reality of no Internet service then you can commiserate with me today. As my brother-in-law feverishly keyed away I was feeling a bead of sweat form on my brow. I was really trying to calm the detox jitters (in more forms than one) of not being on-line when he announced that he might have to call me later and walk me through the network info to get me back on line. It was at that moment I came as close to losing my brain as I have ever come. Was he mad? No Internet? Gasp! How could I possibly survive the day without my little group of friends? How would I keep up with the goings on of my friend Pam's "flip-floppy" family or Susan's "itchy girl"? Or heavens, worse yet........HOW WOULD I VENT? Oh, no, he wasn't setting foot out that door until he got my Internet up and running. Gosh, how dare he even utter such a sentence to a hung over, tired daycare provider on a MONDAY?

I have been chomping at the bit since 6:30am. How would the world get along without my knowing every detail of every other providers' day? Would I fall behind the social curve of the world wide web? Panic set in.

And then my brother-in-law proudly announced that all was up and running and I felt my heart do a little flutter. Finally I could log on to my small world of people I like to call my friends. People I have never met but have a sense of assimilation and support. Yes, these are my co-workers, colleagues, therapy group, business managers, and most importantly I am proud to say that they are my friends.

Who needs a water cooler in a sterile, unfriendly office building to stand around and discuss your weekend with others? I get to do that from the comfort of my own home. And not one of my friends comments, if only in her head, that my shoes don't match my socks, or that I am in need of a root touch-up. Nope, just a group of great ladies who tell you the truth even when it hurts to hear it.

My name is Judy and I am an Internet addict. I just can't get enough of my friends. Well, all of you and those damned chocolate martinis.

For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

The Alternative To Full Days Of Caregiving

I have visited the idea of only providing before and after school care on many occassions. These moments usually come to me when I am experiencing particularily challenging times caring for the young children I have in care. Is there anything worse than listening to a child screaming or crying for days on end that will make you rethink your daycare choices? When you are forced to interact with a crier all day long just about any alternative starts to appear better than your current situation of earplugs and dreams of the many uses for duct tape.

I was walking to the park, four toddlers in tow and passed by a neighbour who provides home daycare. This particular woman cares only for children who are in school full-time. Her home always appears so quiet and relaxed during the school day. However, in the summer it is a flurry of activity as it was today on her front lawn as my group and I hurried by as to not be struck down by the basket balls, kites, bicycles and footballs in flight. I had to admit that I was just a wee bit jealous that the provider was sitting on her front porch, coffee in hand, reading the morning paper. She didn't have to worry about anyone running on to the street. She didn't have to constantly follow the two year old with her eyes to ensure he didn't do the pee-pee dance so she could get him to the toilet on time. Nope, all her kids were potty trained, bottle weened and more likely to arm wrestle than hit their friend on the head with a sand pail. She looked like she wasn't really working at all.

Infants and toddlers are a lot of work during even the best of times. It doesn't take long for a provider to eventually become burned out and look for change. However, within that change there often needs to be an aspect of familiarity and assimilation to her current daycare arrangements. Most providers, while wanting a change, still want the ability to earn an income while staying home with their own children. There are few jobs that don't involved wiping snot and changing diapers that offer one the opportunity to work from home while getting paid. The options are definately limited. However, providing before and after school care could be the perfect compromise.

So if you are feeling the burn of full time daycare try out before and after school care. It is a market niche very much in demand. Just imagine days on your porch, sipping your coffee between the hours of 9am and 3pm. Ah, now that's life!






For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Welcome To The Funny Farm

Today's post is intended for any providers who are just starting out. I thought it pertinent to blog specifically for any new provider who is not familiar yet with the men in white coats who drive the windowless white van. You should all be aware of these people because in the world of home daycare they are most definitely an occupational hazard. And if you are a provider who has not yet had the luxury of the ride in that padded, cozy van while giving yourself a big ole bear hug then you haven't been in business long enough.


My sister is a newbie to home daycare. She decided, after throwing in the towel at her "real" job that she would like to take a ride on the wild side and see all the sites and scenes that we seasoned home daycare providers have visited many times over. She too wants to visit Funky Town, take a ride in the white van, and feed the animals at the Funny Farm one day. And don't worry, Sis, you'll get your chance.


After sending her my contract and giving her some tips on setting up her daycare room I was quick to find two brain cells to rub together to mentor her on some important aspects of the interview and securing her first family. I reminded her that the number one rule of home daycare is; YOUR BUSINESS - YOUR RULES. I reminded her to set her own hours, fees, policies, and payment schedule. I reminded her that her fees are her fees and that they are not negotiable. I was also quick to inform her that it's all in the wording. Some examples of typical questions and comments by parents when interviewing:

Why did you choose to open a home daycare?

The wrong answer - I got tired of waking up at unGodly hours to go to a
job where I got crapped on all day by people who knew less and made more more money than I did. So, I thought, heck, babysitting some kids sounds good.

The correct answer - Operating a home daycare has been a life long
dream of mine. There is nothing more satisfying than watching a child grow and develop and know that you were instrumental in their become an adult.

Will you give me a sibling discount?

The wrong answer - Yeah, sure, because Wal-mart gives me a discount on the mountains of food your kid is gonna eat. Yeah, nice try.

The correct answer - I'm sorry but maintaining a realistic income
is important to my being able to continue care for your children. Therefore my fees reflect what is necessary to both sustain my own family and offer your children a quality program.

I only get a few sick days at work each year. I can't stay home with my kids when they are sick.

The wrong response - Look lady, I'm not following your kid around
with a bucket, a box of kleenex and a bottle of Lysol all day. I'm not a nurse, I'm a daycare provider.

The correct response - My daycare is a well child facility. Keeping
your sick child at home ensures that we keep illness at bay and prevent all the children from becoming sick. If all parents keep their sick children home it will, in fact, cut down on the number of days you will need to take off from work.

What if I don't want to send my kids. I don't have to pay for that day, right?

The wrong answer - Nope, go ahead, keep 'em home. It's not like I
have a mortgage to pay too.

The correct answer - Payment is expected for every day regardless
of attendance. This ensures that your child has a guaranteed spot for their use when needed. My income also requires that I have committed families who value the quality of care and are willing to pay for that quality and availability.

Well, we'll call you if we decide to send our kids to you, okay?

The wrong answer - Sure, whenever you're ready. I'll be sitting by
the phone waiting for your call.

The correct answer - I do have other families interviewing
for the spot. Should you wish to have your children in my care I would suggest you get back to me as soon as possible to ensure the spot is still available for your use. Before a spot is considered taken I will require a signed contract and a deposit.

If you can nail the above specifics in the interview you are well on your way to a successful daycare business. Remember, always be polite but assertive. Make it known that this is your business. You are a professional who has done her homework, has expectations and is not desperate. Because daycare parents can smell desperation a mile away.


Good luck to my sister and any other ladies out there ready to take on the challenge of home daycare. I wish you the best of luck. And watch out for that white van!











For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Welcome To Funky Town

Funky Town.

Wikipedia definition: The mental head space visited by daycare providers when overwhelmed by the toxic effects of too many poopy diapers, screaming children, and push over parents. The population of Funky Town is seasonally dependent. Funky Town experiences population growth during the months of November through April. Population decline coincides with the retreat of Seasonal Affective Disorder. Funky Town does, however, maintain a steady population of vagrant providers all months of the year. Funky Town is located on a small island in between the depths of self-exploration and hell.

This morning I woke up and found myself, once again, a resident of Funky Town. I like to vacation in Funky Town a few times a year. It's always a last minute booking and I am usually surprised by the trip. But, last minute sell-offs work that way so I can't complain about lack of notice. I am now here and hope that my trip is not for the duration of an entire week because a Saturday departure won't work with my weekend plans.

I hate Funky Town. It might be a trip destination but it's no vacation spot. It's dread and hopelessness and includes the desire to buy new running shoes. Shoes you want to put on and run as far, far away from that space you call daycare. And if I didn't have five kids here today I just might consider going to Wal-mart to find a pair of those shoes.

Waking up in Funky Town is usually precipitated by some daycare event. Whether it be the one hundredth time that week that you had to put screamer girl in the time-out spot or discovering that you are losing another child to "free" daycare there is always a negative that sends you sailing on the ferry to Funky Town. And there are no life preservers on that ferry. Once you're on your way there is no escape. It's kind of like a video game. You have to find your own way through the Funky Town maze, gather supplies, find the secret weapons and hope you emerge on the other side of the town so you can leave prepared to not come back. Every visit to Funky Town makes the little daycare provider on the video screen more iron-clad than the visit before. Eventually, if you visit Funky Town enough, your screen avatar will look like a Knight in a suit of armour. It's only once your entire body is protected by the suit that you can ensure less frequent trips to Funky Town.

My personal daycare goal is to one day bid a final farewell to Funky Town. But I still have a lot of work to do and a contract to amend yet again before that can ever happen. Well, that or quit all together. I don't have the opportunity to buy that new pair of running shoes today so I'll just have to live in Funky Town a bit longer. I know they often let providers out of Funky Town around 4:30pm most days. I hope that happens to me.

Well, I'm off now to build up that suit of armour. Here's to hoping I get through the maze and emerge alive on the other side.




For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

It's Just Business

Maybe I'm selfish. I'm sure there are people willing to stand in line for a chance to tell me that I am correct on that point. I tend to think that perhaps I am not selfish but always have my own best interest in mind. I truly believe that in life, and most importantly in business, you must look after numero uno first and foremost. I don't see anything wrong with this ideal. First, I believe it is an innate attribute handed down in our DNA as a result of millions of years of self-preservation and survival needs; and second, the sheer fact that if one does not look after one's self then who will?

I have reiterated this point in relation to daycare many, many times. All too often I witness providers placing the needs of their clients in front of their own. It's a delicate balance being self-employed. Yes, you do need to balance some of your clients' needs or you would have no clients. But, you also need to place your mountain of needs somewhere on that see-saw as well. My thoughts on this point were once again confirmed yesterday.

Not all daycare families are what most of us would consider stellar. However, I have had the pleasure of caring for two children from one superb family over the course of nearly six years. They are a great family. They always pay on time, respect my policies, regularly thank me and comment on the quality of care offered. In the world of daycare they are truly a gem. However, my theory on safeguarding oneself was blatantly reinforced yesterday in conversation with this family.

I was made aware yesterday at pick up that effective August 31st my services would no longer be needed. Apparently this family, who only uses three days of care at a cost of a mere $105 would be leaving to benefit from free daycare services offered by grandma. I was thanked for my services over the last six years and told that they would be happy to be a reference for future interested families. I'm not sure if at that moment I was shocked or angry. My initial reaction was one of indignation, although I was sure not to convey it. Instead, I stood there with my smile, wishing them well and stating my sadness in seeing yet another child go.

Over the last fifteen hours I have had some time to digest the news and have come to a few conclusions. I am no longer angry. They had the opportunity to save $100 a week and have a family member, rather than a friend, care for their child. Who wouldn't make the same decision? I can hardly fault them for coming to that conclusion. However, I do feel anger; anger with myself. Because, I can not count how many times I have made accommodations for this family. I made exceptions because they were the "good" family, the "nice" family. But in the end, they did what everyone else does - took care of themselves first.

Sometimes in life we have the knowledge but can't seem to apply it. Emotion is too easily tied to business and people. I am undecided if this is a positive aspect of the human species or innately a terminal fault. Perhaps Darwin could have answered that question. I had the knowledge. I knew that parents always take care of themselves first. I've seen it a dozen times. But somehow, I, and we, still bend over to accommodate families, often at our own expense, just to see them do what is in their best interest when the situation warrants that action. My question is - When will we learn? When will we decide to only do what suits us? When will we be able to use our knowledge of past events and apply it to the future? It's really not complicated. We just need to be realistic.

If even the "good" families place their needs first then what hope is there for the daycare provider who has less than "good" families in care? There is no hope. You simply can not play a game with the innate intricacies of a million years of programming and expect to win.

Judy learned another lesson yesterday. I have always made a genuine effort to take care of me first. But if I was honest I would also admit there is a certain level of guilt that accompanies that decision. Yesterday's lesson was that guilt should not be a factor. Do what you need to do. Everyone else does.

I'm not a better person than most. And maybe I don't want to be. My experience tells me that in business, being the better person means being the loser. I think I'll go back to my old motto, "It's just business", and will sleep better at night.




For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Beggars Can Be Choosers

Have you ever had golden children in your care? I have. I currently have one child, a two year old little girl, who is fabulous. Hands down she is one of the best children I have ever had the pleasure of caring for. In fact, if I had an entire daycare full of kids like her I would never need an occasion to blog my frustrations.

A few years ago I had another girl in care who was also a golden child. I remember her first day of care. Not a tear was shed and she ran off to play. At the tender age of twelve months, we as daycare providers, realize this is an anomaly. No crying, no screaming, no fussing. It was amazing. This child was with me for only six months when her parents announced that the Montessori school in our area had opened up a new program for children eighteen months old. So, there she went - off to Montessori and I lost the perfect child.

In the two years since she left my care I have had this child visit daycare during Montessori breaks and summer vacation. And every time she comes I feel cheated and discouraged. I feel cheated that I lost such a wonderfully easy going and fun child and discouraged at the demeanour of her replacements. I start to realize how, in a perfect world, daycare could be. Yes, I feel hoodwinked. I start to feel something else too. I feel like a beggar.

Whenever this child spends a few precious days in care I get the itch. I want so badly to strong arm her parents into quitting that fancy "school". I want to beg them to bring her back. I want to pout, and kick and scream until I get my way. And eventually, I do give into the desire and directly tell the parents they need to leave her in my care. She loves it here. My own kids adore her and she fits in like an additional family member. And even her parents constantly remind me of the quality care I provide. Ah, I wish I could find the stumbling block.

The mother is currently on mat leave with the golden child's sister. They have already asked about care for their youngest at the time mom returns to work. It is also apparent that they do not wish to have their youngest follow in her sister's Montessori footsteps. I'm quite certain cost is a factor. After all, I could care for both of their children for the price of their oldest to attend Montessori for only forty weeks a year. Seems like a no-brainer to me.

The next three weeks while the golden child is in my care I will make a special effort to convince the parents to reconsider. And, if anyone know me they will be shocked to discover that I would take the time or consideration to convince anyone to use my services. I'm not the type to run after clients. I'm too smug and feel I have more self-worth than that. But sometimes one has to give up their inclination to be contemptuous in order to reap the rewards of the greater good. And for me, that would be having this child back in care.

So, it is my goal in the next three weeks and then the next five months to have these parents utilize my services once again. I can imagine already the stress-free days and delightful times with sixty percent of the children in my care being 'golden'. Oh, what a dream that would be. And yes, it would mean letting some of the other children go onto other adventures. Those children and their parents can find another provider who is willing to listen to their two and a half year old scream for their sunglasses. Because if all goes as planned there will be no screaming in my house. Nope, just fun-filled days with happy, easy-going kids. Ah, heck, who needs Montessori? Just come on over to my house. My sanity needs you.

For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Have You Had Your Sprinkle Today?

I love working from home. I love commuting to my coffee pot. I love being home with my own two kids. I love being able to smell that sweet smell of the top of my dog's head when I plant a kiss as I walk by her bathing in the sun on the end of the couch. I love my patio and sitting on it drinking coffee while the kids run in the yard. I love having my own private executive washroom. There isn't much I don't like about the working from home aspect. I love my home. But, even someone who loves their home can start to feel the walls closing in sometimes. It is during these times that I find myself getting out with the kids more.

This week we have been to the park on an impromptu Muffin Day. Yesterday we ventured out to Wal-mart and picked up some household items, party supplies for my daughter's party tomorrow and some special treats for the day. And this morning my small group and I took off for the splash pad. It is a beautiful day where I live and one must take advantage of the nice weather when we can. So, after a half an hour of prepping a snack, filling up sippy cups, gathering towels and slathering sunscreen we were off to the splash pad.

It was a great morning. The kids had a blast. It was especially nice the first half hour of our frolicking as we were the only group using the splash pad. It was our private playground. Half way through our stay a large group of children arrived. Being a daycare provider I easily spotted the two daycare workers and identified them as such. And, then, inevitably I started to count. One, two, three, four.....eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen. Wow! Fourteen children all under three years old in the care of just two daycare workers. Geesh, I thought I was good. These women must be superheroes.

It didn't take long for me to realize that this large group of children to the duo of caretakers was a disaster in the making. There were clearly just too many kids all of the same age to keep one's eye on at all times. One child would fall down and then all of the attention of that daycare worker was devoted to the wounded toddler. The responsibility of thirteen children just shifted to the only other adult there. I myself found it quite stressful. A few times I had to shout out that they "had a man down" or that someone was wandering, to what I felt, was just a little too far away from the action. And, I will also say that these were great kids too. No tantrums, no hitting, biting, or lack of co-operation among the lot of them. They were just buzy having fun.

I had to wonder why it is deemed as appropriate by the mandated regulations of the Ontario government to allow one caretaker to a group of eight children in the 30 month to five year age range in a centre-based daycare wherein the law allows for only five children to the same number of home daycare providers in a home setting. Why is this? Does the government think that centre-based daycare providers are more capable? Because if the government assumes this fact to be true I would like to invite Mr. McGuinty to the splash pad on our next trip. It was apparent that even fourteen children, which is two LESS than legally allowed, under the age of three is far too many for two adults to manage in an outdoor setting that lacks physical boundaries. Yet, if I had one extra child in my home, with the door closed, in a kid-proof playroom I would be operating an 'unsafe and illegal' daycare. It doesn't make sense.

In the province of Alberta they recently changed the rules to add one other child to all home daycare operations. Alberta daycare providers can now care for six children in their homes. I think this is a realistic, fair and manageable number. I only wish Ontario would follow suit. I know that many providers could easily handle another child if given the opportunity. Many of us handled far more when providing daycare when our own children were also in diapers.

Yes, I really did ponder all of these things while standing there on the sidelines of the splash pad becoming soaked by the misty streams of water the wind carried my way. I looked at my group who were joyously happy and full of life and once again felt gratitude for my ability to enjoy this glorious day, with my own kids, outside of the confines of four office walls. I also knew that arriving back home would be chaos. There would be five wet bodies to change, a load of towels to wash, bathing suits and sun hats to hang to dry and lunch to be made for these ravenous kids. But it was all okay. I can't complain that today I went to the park, splashed in the water and returned to my deck and got paid to do so. Nope, no complaining here.
For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

I would like a date. Yes, an exact calendar date. I want to know when it is that parents will "get it". I don't ask for much in life. But the one thing I simply will not tolerate for myself or other providers is disrespect. Disrespect for my family, my home, my hours, my fees, my policies is a deal breaker. I simply will not allow myself to be treated with such irreverence. And I challenge any other provider out there to adopt this attitude as well. We work hard and we deserve more. And the only one who is going to gain the respect of parents is you. No one else should be responsible for the respect you warrant. Only you can command that consideration.

This week I was privy to two different scenarios involving parents and providers and the question of respect. In one instance a provider refused to compromise her worth and in the other the provider gave up every ounce of it.

In the first situation the daycare provider interviewed with a family who was leaving a current daycare. Their current provider was closing her doors to work outside the home. Once you read further you will have no doubt why it is that this woman made this decision. The family was pleasant, polite and professional. They asked all the important questions, toured the home and thanked the provider for her time. To anyone who knows this provider it was a no-brainer. We certainly all expected this family to call back, sign on and be accepted into care. This provider is an accredited Early Childhood Educator, genuinely loves children, offers a fantastic program, and maintains a clean, warm home. In fact, even though I abhor the thought of placing my own kids in daycare she would be one of the people I would feel secure leaving my children with. She is a gem.

The parents emailed her a day after the interview singing her praises and complimenting her on such a fine daycare set-up. But the blow came when they also conveyed that they would not be placing their child with this provider. Why, you ask? Well, according to the parents, "the policies regarding zero vacation time given to your clients did not sit well with us and we are really not willing to pay for services not needed". Really? Yes, I too was stunned. These parents are quibbling over two weeks of fees they don't want to pay when they are on vacation and are willing to pass up what is probably the best provider they will find over less than three hundred and fifty dollars a year?! "Let them go" is what I say. I would love to be a third party to the conversation that would result if they called their cable company or phone company or mortgage holder notifying them that they will not be paying for their services on their vacation time. Geesh. Wake up!

I have to give kudos to this provider. She was not only insulted (and she should be) she was unwavering. She refused to bend and stood fast in asking for what she deserves. She was a good business woman and will reap the rewards for this decision later.

The second situation involved a provider who had given notice herself that she was closing her doors. As per her contract thirty days written notice is required by either party when terminating services. One family decided that this clause did not apply to them. They informed the provider that they would no longer need her services and would be leaving within a few days and requested a full refund of fees already paid for the month of July. Now, anyone who can do basic math understands that if you are announcing your departure while already in the month of July then that would not constitute a notice of thirty days. Therefore, as per the contract that was signed and agreed upon no reimbursement of fees should be due. Of course, this provider did attempt to stand her ground on this issue. Unfortunately she fell victim to a very mean spirited father who threatened to sue her. It's sad. It's too bad she didn't live near me. I would have been more than happy to stand in her door way and tell the six-foot-two father that he wasn't getting a dime all the while pointing to the highlighted terms of the contract. Bully or not I do not waiver. There is no way in hell he should have been refunded a penny of that money. And as for threatening to sue? Oh, bring it on, buddy.

It honestly saddens me and infuriates me to read posts like the above situation on message boards. Why should the provider always be the one to give, give, give? Worse yet is the notion that if the provider had been a man I highly doubt that the same six-foot-two father would have appeared at the door with the intent on bullying the provider out of their rightfully due monies. No, it wouldn't happen. In my opinion it was a matter of abuse in many ways. Controlling, manipulative behaviour by a man toward a woman. I can hardly wait for him to meet a provider who doesn't take his crap one day. He'll keep up his attitude and general disrespect until someone demonstrates that it doesn't work. It's too bad that this provider just allowed him to move on to the next provider who will undoubtedly have to deal with his disrespect as well.

I have said it a thousand times - daycare is business. Yeah, yeah, we work with kids so we are supposed to be warm and fuzzy. But, this in no way implies that you can not be both warm and fuzzy and an absolute business woman when push comes to shove. Being a business woman first and foremost should not be mistaken for lack of caring for your charges. It is not interconnected. You can be both a caring provider and a happy, successful business woman who makes her own rules. It can be done. I live it.

Please, please don't waiver. You invest far too much time, money, sweat, emotion and your heart into your business. You deserve to be treated with the basic human right of respect. Not only do you deserve this you are owed it. Expect it and you will command it. You truly do teach people how to treat you. Demand respect and before you know it you will attract only those families who give it.


For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Round Table Discussions

I have had many a chuckle listening to kids in conversation. I have heard it all. Everything about what mommy and daddy wear to bed, to the fact that mommy pooped today, to how daddy really likes beer. These are conversations I am careful to never embarrass mom or dad by divulging. Besides, I'm sure there have been lots of stories that have gone home as well. My agreement with parents has always been that I won't believe everything the kids tell me about them if they agree not to believe everything the kids say about me. Sounds fair enough.

Today, however, I was privy to a conversation about the different kids I currently have or have had in care. We started off the morning with Twin A throwing and un-Godly fit and the kids in turn telling her in unison, "No Thank You" as their method of demonstrating that her screaming was neither appreciated or acceptable. This inevitably lead to a conversation between my own two kids who are nine and six and another daycare girl who is also six. These three kids have seen it all. The girl in reference was my very first client and she has seen many kids come and go in her five and a half years here. Between the three of them it was quite a trip down memory lane.

There was a general consensus among the three of them that Twin A is undoubtedly the most "dramatic" child ever in care. They also agreed that if given a vote she would be off the daycare island at the next tribal council. After this snippet of conversation they went on to list and detail a number of 'special' kids over the years. I thought it so funny that I wanted to share with you those 'special' kids and their moments as I remember the three of them reminiscing today.

Boy #1 - named "The Pooper" by my kitchen table trio this morning. I swear, this kid could poop out the same bite he swallowed within one complete turn around the clock by the second hand. It amazed me there was anything left to this kid at the end of the day. He was also the snottiest kid I have ever seen. Double-barrelled constant streams of snot and liquid poop do not make for a very happy daycare memory.

Boy #2- the kids made me howl with this one. I had almost forgotten about this child. If there was every a more persistent child I would be surprised to find one. The trio laughed as they remember this child and his incessant "Why". Man, this child would ask that same one word question over and over and over again all day long. I remember the daycare girl from the trio used to repeatedly answer "because" to this child. It never worked though. The questions just kept on coming.

Girl #1 - "Genius". I really and truly think the child was either an Einstein in the making or possessed by some force. I have never, in all my years been so creeped out by a child. This little girl was seventeen months old and could literally carry on an adult conversation. Her eyes would pierce your soul and read your mind thoughts. I swear! She always reminded me of the worlds smallest person from the Guinness Book. Spooooky! All in all she was probably looking at me horrified that she could possibly be stuck in the presence of someone so utterly stupid.

Girl #2 - when one of the kids mentioned this child they all, in unison, said, "Annoying". They were referring to a four year old girl I cared for over the course of a year. And yes, she was the most annoying child I have ever met. She was also extremely argumentative. I once remember taking the kids on a field trip. This girl and my son were in the back of the van arguing back and forth. My son kept asking her to stop pointing her finger at him and told her he would no longer argue with her. Apparently this child did not understand that he was serious. I'll never forget pulling into the driveway, getting out and opening up the van door to see this girl literally catapulted out of the van, car seat and all. Looking back now it was one of the funniest and most deserving of consequences for pestering anyone I have ever had the pleasure to witness. Needless to say, at the moment of the incident I punished my son but all the while suppressing a smile. Yep, annoying for sure.


It's funny when you look back at all the kids who have spent time in your care. Some of them were great and some were trying at best. But hindsight and some time removed from the situation allows you the opportunity to laugh now when in the worst of times all you wanted to do was cry. It helps to know that regardless of the personal hell you might be going through right now with one or more of your daycare kids that "this too shall pass". Now if I could just make Twin A a memory rather than a current event my world would be alright.


For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca

Vacation Is Great But Work Can Be Fun

I'm back - Back to work that is. As many of you have noticed and commented, there have been no new blog posts since Tuesday of last week. I am just returning from five glorious days off work. It was wonderful!

It's amazing the ambition you can muster when you find yourself with days that are free knowing that you don't have to answer the door and take in five additional kids on a given day. Over the last five days we have jam-packed our lives. Our family has been camping, hiking, canoeing, twice to the beach, and one day discovering the quaint town of Stratford. We have also had family over for dinner, barbecued, campfired, and picniced. Whew! I'm exhausted. Who knew you could be both happy and exhausted at the same time? It was great.

All was going well until yesterday when the undeniable fact of Monday's coming dawned on me. I didn't want to go to bed last night because I knew that closing my eyes meant the end of my easy-going, carefree lifestyle of the last week. But, alas, one must persevere.

I woke up today with every intention of positivity and optimism at the week ahead. I got up, worked out, made coffee, showered, tidied and unlocked the door. My first family to arrive was my favourite, and flexible schedule family. I was genuinely happy to see them and welcomed them back after a week away. Of course, my optimism soon faltered when the youngest child, nearly three years old, informed me that she did not want the "twins" to come. I could commiserate with her feelings. Yes, one of the twins is the ultimate fun and buzz killer. And yes, this child can bring down the optimism of any day with her quivering lips and self-serving demeanour. In one second a three year old managed to squash any spec of optimism and positivity my thirty seven year old mind had managed to maintain. I couldn't blame her. She was right.

As I made way to the coffee pot to pour my second cup of coffee and lick my fresh wounds of doom and gloom at the impending arrival of a two and a half foot tall ball of pessimism the phone rang. And then the clouds parted, the sun emerged, soaking me in its rays. Ah, heaven itself could not be finer than a early morning phone call to inform me that the twins would not arrive today. Instead, they will be taking a special day with their parents. Ah.........yes, there is a God and he does succeed in feats of supreme difficulty.

So, today, with my small, happy group of kids we will partake in an impromptu Muffin Day. We will visit our friendly muffin store, purchase our snack and race off to the park for a morning of fun. And it will be fun. I know this to be fact. The only buzz killers in our group will be inside of my own head. The morning phone call quieted those voices today. Yep, just happy kids, sunshine and muffins. Sometimes I have to pinch myself. Do I really get paid to do this?



For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca