How Much Should We Spend on Our Daycare Provider's Christmas Gift?

as a child care provider--i think most people in this field are not in it for the money. personally, i would love a heartfelt note of praise about something you love about the care your child gets, along with a photo or christmas ornament with your child's photo etc.

toy donations for the program would also be nice. having come from little money myself, people's ideas of materialism and commercialism are too out of control. make it heartfelt, simple and possibly served with a nice cup of coffee.

I would do $25-$50 but think it's extreme to go over $50 in my opinion. I usually pick up a candle and plus in candle warmer and a $20-$25 giftcard. It's a good mix of a gift you put thought into and then something they can buy themselves. I gave a $25 Visa card to my provider when it was her birthday so she could use it at almost any store.

R.,

I am also a childcare provider and most of my parents give me monetary gifts in the range of $25-$50. I have one lovely family that gives me $50 but the best part of their gift is the note she writes telling me how much I have taught them about parenting, how thankful they are for the love and support I show their family and how much it means to them to be able to go to work knowing that their children are loved and cared for. It always brings a tear to my eye to know that THEY know the reason I care for children. That being said, I think $50 is appropriate and a nice note would put the frosting on the cake! This family also remembers me on my birthday with a gift certificate a few times throughout the year brings the daycare soap, toys, etc.

As providers, we too, are lucky to have wonderful parents who appreciate our efforts and allow us the privilege of becoming an important part of their children's lives.

Merry Christmas!

C.

I think $50 is appropriate. I would also suggest that if you don't pay for days off at the holiday you should give her holiday pay.

I would always give cash, I was a daycare provider and a nanny for years. For the norm I would get anything from 1-3 weeks pay. I did get little gifts which I also loved and do what you can but people who work with children in there home have a gift. They take care of your pride and joy. I am sure she will like any gift you give her but coming from someone who has dose the job cash is nice. People always called it my bonus for the year.

My mom has been doing in-home daycare for nearly 30 years and she gets gifts in the $25-$50 range normally. If you read up on how much to tip at the holidays, it always says to tip a week's pay and a few people have done that, but not many. I would think the $50 gift card is fine and then add a note telling her how much you appreciate her!

I am a home daycare provider and have been working in child care for over 20 years. What I have read, is that it is appropriate to spend a week's pay on her. But, in the 20 + years I have been doing this, I have never had anyone spend that much on me. I have had a few parents spend a little over $100 and that is the most. Most families do what they can afford or feel right giving, you need to do the same. If you use a home daycare provider, we make little money. Most of our income is turned right around and put back into our business, so any gifts are appreciated. Target is great, so is Michael's, then she can either spend it on the daycare or herself/family. The gifts that have meant the most to me cost nothing - a very nice, hand written card, letting me know how much the parents appreciate everything I do for them and their children. We providers rarely hear that. Of course $100 is nice, too. :) Again, do what you feel comfortable with and can afford. Another thing you can do through out the year is ask your provider if there is anything she needs for the daycare (toys, nap mats, paper products, hand soap, art supplies, etc.). Having parents donate things like that all year long is very much appreciated, especially if the parents do it with out the provider having to ask. I am glad you found a provider you love so much!
S.