Daycare Contracts Guide 2026: What to Look For
Complete guide to daycare contracts in 2026. Understanding enrollment agreements, key clauses, red flags, and negotiating terms before signing.
Daycare contracts protect both families and providers. Understanding what you're signing helps avoid surprises and ensures the arrangement works for everyone. Review these key areas before committing.
Table of Contents
Key Contract Elements
Basic Information
| Element | What to Verify | |---------|----------------| | Hours | Exact operating hours | | Days | Which days covered | | Start date | When care begins | | Age transitions | When child moves rooms | | Schedule | Part-time/full-time specifics |
Policies Included
| Policy | Why It Matters | |--------|----------------| | Sick child | When child must stay home | | Late pickup | Fees and procedures | | Holidays | Closures and pay requirements | | Vacation | Your time off policy | | Notice | Required for changes |
Payment Terms
What to Understand
| Term | Details to Clarify | |------|-------------------| | Rate | Weekly, monthly, daily | | Due date | When payment is expected | | Late fees | Amount and grace period | | Payment methods | Accepted forms | | Rate increases | How much notice, how often |
Additional Fees
| Fee | Common Range | |-----|--------------| | Registration | $50-200 | | Supply fee | $25-100 annually | | Late pickup | $1-5 per minute | | Returned check | $25-50 | | Field trips | Varies |
Termination Policies
Notice Requirements
| Scenario | Typical Requirement | |----------|---------------------| | Parent withdrawal | 2-4 weeks written notice | | Provider termination | 2 weeks notice | | Immediate termination | Safety concerns | | Deposit | May be forfeited |
What Happens to Deposits
| Situation | Deposit Outcome | |-----------|-----------------| | Proper notice given | Refunded | | No/insufficient notice | Forfeited | | Waiting period withdrawal | May forfeit | | Provider terminates | Should be refunded |
Red Flags
Concerning Terms
| Red Flag | Why It's Problematic | |----------|---------------------| | No refunds ever | Unfair to families | | No notice from provider | Leaves you stranded | | Excessive notice required | Traps you unfairly | | Hidden fees | Not transparent | | No written policies | Unclear expectations |
Questions to Ask
- What happens if my child doesn't adjust?
- Can I visit unannounced?
- How do you handle rate increases?
- What is your communication policy?
- How are disputes resolved?
Negotiating Terms
What May Be Negotiable
| Item | Possibility | |------|-------------| | Start date | Often flexible | | Deposit | Sometimes reduced | | Notice period | Occasionally flexible | | Payment schedule | May accommodate | | Sibling discount | Worth asking |
How to Negotiate
Approach:
- Ask politely
- Explain your situation
- Focus on relationship
- Accept reasonable terms
- Get changes in writing
Before You Sign
Checklist
| Item | Verified | |------|----------| | All fees understood | ☐ | | Hours match your needs | ☐ | | Policies reviewed | ☐ | | Termination terms acceptable | ☐ | | Tour completed | ☐ | | Questions answered | ☐ | | References checked | ☐ |
Resources
Last updated: December 2025