When parents and child care providers disagree (1091)

Parents often have to make some compromises between "ideal" child care, and the actual choices that are available. You may simply have to live with some compromises, such as a far-away location.

But if you have other concerns, you may be able to work them out with the provider. Every family raises children a little differently. If you want your provider to do things differently with your child, talk with him or her about it. A good provider will welcome this, knowing that you are partners who need to cooperate.

Be careful not to say something like "You shouldn't do that with the children." This may offend the provider or start an argument.

Instead, start out by saying "In our family, we prefer to do it this way."

This shows you know that other parents may choose to do things differently than you. A good provider can then listen, even if they don't agree with you.

Remember, as a parent, you have a role in the success of your relationship. Here are some things providers want parents to understand:

- It's important to pick up your children on time - your provider has established the hours he or she does business, and your child needs to be with their family.

- Pay your child care bills on time.

- If you have a problem - talk about it with your provider or center director.

Parents and providers can usually work things out, but, sometimes your child-rearing ideas will be too far apart. In that case, you should look for another provider.

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