Cancelling a new contract.

[sj]

Ive recently done a contract to look after a little girl after school hours only. However her mum brought her round the day after to meet me and she was a total brat!!! Ive spoken to another childminder I know and appparently she knew who she was and wouldnt take her as she is such a handful.

Im going to be collecting her from school as of next week, what if she is too much for me to deal with, with the other kids and my own? Am I within my rights to cancel the contract without a notice period if it doesnt work out? Im not ruling out having her, Im going to give it my best shot but if not can I do this?

Sam

[tasha]

I've PM'd you!
Tasha

[sarahnev707]

Firstly, you need to do a settling-in visit before next week, so you can get to know the child and find out what makes her tick

Then, you need to make sure your contract is carefully worded so mum knows she's on a month's trial period

Plus, child needs to know what you will and won't put up with, so make a start on a behaviour agreement from the first visit, using positive management steps... and involve parents if possible, so it's coming at the child from all angles

Then, make it really absolutely clear what your punishments are and stick to them, however tired and cross you get - she's maybe been handled inappropriately in the past, so be as consistent as you possibly can be.... you know all this... why am I telling you??

The only thing I'd say for the future, Sam, is don't sign contracts before meeting the children LOL.... I did it once - big oops! He lasted 2 days!!!!

Sarahx

[rainbowmum]

She may not be so bad when Mum isn't there - I mind 2 brothers & thay are good as gold for me (most of the time) but they turn into whinging disobient monsters as soon as mum gets through the door!

Hope it goes well for you xx

[angeldelight]

Good advice from everyone Sam

Whatever you decide good luck

Angel xx

[banana]

Good luck and let us know what happens

x