[Corey]

In this situation I think it’s definitely appropriate to open up a conversation with the parent. Perhaps she has time commitments, and that’s why she’s late. It’s helpful to understand why she’s late, but also, it’s harmful for the child- at my site, the kids tend to get scared when they’re the last one left and its nearing closing time and getting dark outside. The mother knew going into this what the hours are, and if she’s consistently late, then something has to change.

[Kim Arman]

Start by showing empathy to the parent, see what is getting in the way of picking up on time. Explain the effect this has on the child’s confidence and security to be the last child in the center, well after when he should be picked up. Revisit the policy book together and the charges imposed on late pickups, work together to come up with an action plan for the future that is in the best interest of the child.

[Adriana Huerta]

I would politely ask mom why she has been running late. Depending on what she says we could discuss ways of avoiding being late as its not good for the academy as well as how being late may affect her child.

[Habiibo Saneey]

In this situation, I would approach Mrs. Hopkins with empathy and concern, expressing my understanding of the challenges she may be facing. I would initiate a respectful and private conversation to discuss the repeated late pickups and their impact on the center’s operation. My goal would be to collaboratively find a solution that works for both her and the center, possibly exploring options such as adjusted pickup times or connecting her with local resources that could assist with her scheduling needs. It’s essential to maintain open communication, address any underlying issues, and ensure that the child’s well-being and routine are not compromised while working towards a resolution that aligns with the center’s policies and the family’s circumstances.

[Kennedy Jean Taylor]

In this situation it is right to have a meeting with the parent and let them know that it’s not okay picking their child up late as it effects the child, I would also be sure to try and understand the parents point of view and reasoning first before moving forward and making any sort of reports concerning the situation.

[Jayhla tatro]

I would first try to figure out the reasoning of why the parent was late and see what we can do to move forward in a positive matter to make sure it doesn’t happen again or else there will have to be further charges

[Dana]

I would remind the parent of the time the center closes, and the policy in regards to late pickup times. This would be a fine or conversation with the director.

[Rubi]

This is the third time in the last two weeks that Mrs. Hopkins has picked up her child late. Today she did not arrive until 20 minutes after closing time.

1. I would refer to the hours of operation, and remind the family of the agreement per the Parent Handbook of drop-off/pick-up schedule.

2. Offer to send text-message reminders and hour before pick-up.

3. For a more positive approach, I would offer an incentive for on-time pickups. For example, families who arrive on-time every day during pickup, I would have pencils, stickers, notebooks to choose from.

4. I would propose to the family an option for another adult to be able to do pick-up, and add them to the emergency contact list.

5. I would enforce the “$1-min” late fee, if it applies to the center.

[Mandy Hung]

Letting the families know that their child really misses them when they are at school. It is important that you pick them up on time. It boots their self-esteem and confidence that they know their families will always come back. It also helps with the staff to clean the class and close up for the day.

[Sheetal]

I would explain parent that , she has to inform staff well in advance that kid will be picked up late unless it is urgent else they should be in time. Or else as per the school rules they need to pay the fine.

[Pang Vang]

I would first tell her that proper communication needs to be provided then remind her of the time delicacy, cost, and express to her that this does effect the child, especially being the last kid to be picked up.

[Shoshana]

I would set up a meeting with the parent outside of pickup time. I would share empathy for the situation, but explain why this cannot be a regular occurrence. I would try to work with the parent to find maybe an earlier time to pick up or brainstorm other people who could help with pickup time. But I would make sure to set the boundary firm, and explain the consequence if late pickup happens again.

[Kaydence Meikle]

I would start the conversation off with, “Mrs. Hopkins we completely understand that there are going to be times of emergency that you may need to pick up your child later than usual, but it’s important to not make a habit of this, one for respect of the staff but also for concern of your child. Being the last one to be picked up can feel lonely and scary, if there is some sort of plan we may need to come up with for your family feel free to reach out, we want everyone to feel secure and we only want to have a positive impact on your life, and the children’s life. So always feel free to reach out for anything, thank you for your time”

[Morgan]

The center I will be working for has a policy that charges $1.00 after every minute past closing and all attempts will be made to contact guardians, and then authorized pick up persons. If we cannot reach anyone, we contact the director or assistant director who will contact the authorities or CPS to assist in locating an authorized pick up person.

Since the parent would have gone through the process of being located by authorities or cps by this point. I would start by attempting to ease their emotions about the whole situation, ask them if they’d like to share why they’ve been late recently, and then kindly remind them of the late pick up policies that they agreed to and the consequences if they can’t follow policy. Then I would offer to help them find a solution to this issue.

Emotional responses and professionalism is such a hard line to walk, but I think this is the perfect balance. Opening with kindness and understanding, but always stick to facts and/or policies.

[Kate Hodnett]

I agree, frequently being late can affect a child especially if they are the only one left in the classroom. they wonder where is my mom and dad. they are very excited to see parents. it also is hard on the teacher, they have to stay a little longer or wait a little longer to start sanitizing and clean up until all kids are gone.