[Salwa]

If I were here with Mrs. Hopkins, I would attempt to deal with it with empathy, but also very direct and respectful boundaries. I understand life can get busy—people get held up at work, traffic occurs, or things come up that they don’t expect. However, when it’s been three times within two weeks and particularly when someone is 20 minutes late after closing, it absolutely does need to be addressed.I’d try to catch her at drop-off or call her quickly when I have a minute and just have an honest, friendly conversation. I’d probably say something like, “Hi, I totally understand that things come up—we all get behind sometimes—but I’ve sort of seen it’s been kind of a problem lately.”. I just called to ask if everything’s okay or if there’s something we can help with.” That way, it keeps the door open for her to share if there’s a reason for the delays and doesn’t come across as confrontational.At the same time, I’d gently remind her of our closing time and the reason we do have it—for the schedule, of course, but also because workers have families and lives outside of work that they need to attend to. If we do implement a late pick-up policy or fee, I’d explain it gently and not as a penalty but as a reminder that we all must respect the system we’ve put in place.The key aim would be to maintain the discussion helpful and solution-oriented, so she does not get embarrassed or defensive—but also so that she knows that punctual pick-up is in everyone’s best interests.

[Megan Bryant]

I would start by having a respectful conversation about the importance of picking up their child on time and let the parent know how this could potentially negatively impact their child. During this conversation I would attempt to identify the root cause of the problem in order to address it. If the problem continues following the initial conversation I would explain that further steps would need to be taken both me and the parent. This could include coming up with a plan or approving a secondary person who could pick the child up if the parent was unable to on time.

[Lenianka Martinez]

I would explain that 20 min can affect the child as they have been the last to leave but also explain how being late can cause anxiety and stress to the child as the child was expecting to be picked up at a certain time.

[Kodi Null]

When you are able to have a discussion with mom you can politely explain the pick up time and procedures. You can communicate all of this gently and respectfully while explaining how important it is for everyone to try their best to be on time.

[Gazelle Hudspeth]

First, acknowledge the reason why she was late for the third time and remind her that the Center had a policy that was written down in the Families Handbook, which is given to them before dropping their children at the Center, stating that there is a fine when they don’t follow the policy per time they fail to appear for pick up. I want to direct her to the handbook, where she may be aware of the policy, but is not paying attention. However, this could be Mrs. Hopkins’ last warning, and we will see what happens next if she abides or not.

[Nune]

It can impact negatively on child.

[Angela Freeberg]

Letting them know that they can’t pick up late, but without judgment, also asking why they are late —maybe they are having trouble getting out of work on time, dealing with traffic, etc.—and helping find solutions together.

[Katie Bracey]

As a professional, I’d approach the situation with understanding but also clear boundaries. I’d have a private, respectful conversation with Mrs. Hopkins.I would explain that I understand things come up, but I’ve noticed a pattern of late pick-ups recently, including today, which was 20 minutes past closing. I would let her know that I want to make sure we’re on the same page because consistent late pick-ups can impact her child, staff schedules, and licensing regulations. I would ask her if there is anything going on that we can help support her with? Then I’d document the conversation, follow program policy, and offer support if needed, while also reinforcing the importance of respecting pick-up times.

[Marisa]

I would start by being empathetic and explaining that i know theres traffic and its not always easy to get off work at the exact time you get off. Then i would explain the policy about late pickups and what could happen if it continues. Then we would come up with a solution to the problem like setting reminders or adjusting the drop-off/pick-up time.

[Dahlia hernandez]

Mrs. Hopkins has been late a few times recently. First, I’d find a good time to talk to her and ask if everything is okay, mentioning that I’ve noticed she’s been late and want to make sure things are alright on her end. If it continues, I’d gently remind her of the pickup schedule and explain that late fees might apply to ensure we stick to the rules. If the problem persists, I’d involve my supervisor to find a solution that works for everyone involved while keeping things professional.

[Patricia De Luca Vitalli]

I think that the colleague made a good observation that twenty minutes for the parent is not too long, but for the child is. I have a personal experience with my son when I arrived minutes late to pick him up. He showed frustration and disappointment to be the last. Other point raised is about the time and consideration with the professionals of the Early Learning Center.

[Anya Brennan]

I would say, “Hi Mrs. Hopkins, I can imagine things may be busy for you at the moment” or “I know you are trying your best and I am glad you made it. I wanted to share with you that this is the third time in the last 2 weeks that you have picked up your child late. It is not fair to ask our staff to wait an extra 20 minutes after their workdays. Is there anything you want to check-in about? Do you think we can make a plan to ensure your child can be picked up on time in the future?”

[Jordan Young]

When a parent is repeatedly late for pick up it’s important to address the situation professionally, respectably, and clearly, while keeping the child’s well being and your programs policy in mind. Making sure you prioritize the child’s emotional needs and documenting the late pickups.

[Haley Scaman]

I’d mention that although things happen, reoccurring events like this impact the organization and the child. This causes difficulties with the staff and can impact school rules or regulations.

[fatima]

I would approach Mrs. Hopkins with an open heart and ask her if everything is ok. And i would precede to explain that punctuality is greatly appreciated and if something is happening i would appreciate communication so i could be understanding and possible come up with a plan.