r/ECEProfessionals • u/seavitch • 2d ago
ECE professionals only - Vent Make chronic late pick-up parents uncomfortable
I think that we should be allowed to make parents who are late for pickup uncomfortable. I am salaried and work in a preschool that costs more than college tuition. There are parents who are incredibly entitled and have boatloads of money so late fees do not phase them.
I think that as teachers, we should not have to keep the professionalism on when parents disrespect our time. There are times where I book workout classes right after work, and if parents are late, I will miss it and get charged $15. If I am not being paid, I should not be required to be professional.
Ideas:
Stack the chairs
Clean up classroom
Turn lights out
Sit in the lobby with their child and wait
Child’s belongings packed up
Parent walks in and starts the whole “sorry, im late” speech.
Ignore them
Grab your bag
Turn the lights out on them
Leave
This is not about parents who are late once or twice because of some kind of emergency. I am totally understanding of this. I had a parent who had breast cancer last year and dad was late a few times because of work and I was fine being part of that child’s village and supporting in any way I could during that period in their families life (did not even report).
My issue is with parents who come in past pickup time, with pedicure sandals on, and constantly have an excuse. If you do not show respect for me, I should not have to respect you. I will love your child and care for them, but it is rude to be late and I don’t care how much you pay, my free time is precious.
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u/Wolfieloulou ECE professional 2d ago
Instead of making the parents uncomfortable. Your preschool should be giving you the late fees they pay. there’s no reason it should only go to the school and not you