Below are some elements you will want to be sure to include in your contract:

Parties included in the child care contract: Who is the contract between—parent or parents or legal guardians and provider. 

What does the child care contract cover: Care for whom? Child or children.

Hours of care: Usual hours and any additional or different hours for this parent.

Payment for care: How much, when, and how. What are the consequences of late payments?

Any additional fees (if applicable or allowable): Late fees, early-drop-off fees, supplies or materials, insurance, field trips, classes, etc.

Holidays: Parents should understand and agree to your holiday policies and any payment expected for holidays.

Vacations: Parents should understand and agree to your vacation policy and any payment expected for vacation time.

Absences: Parents should understand and agree to your absence policies and any payments expected for absences.

Additional requirements: Do you expect parents to provide diapers and wipes, blanket, change of clothes, tissues. All this should be defined within the contract.

Illness policies: Parents should understand and agree to your illness and health policies and procedures.

Termination of the child care contract: What are causes for termination? What procedures are to be followed, and notices given for termination? What, if any, payment do you expect if notice is not given?

You should have your licensing specialist or family child care administrator review your contract before you start your business or if you make changes to your contract or services.