Everything You Need To Know About Child Care Agreements

If you’re in the child care business, it’s important that you and your customers are on the same page.

The best way to do this is by putting in place a carefully-drafted Child Care Agreement. This contract will manage clients’ expectations as to what services you provide, how these services are provided and what happens in the event of a dispute.

What Is A Child Care Agreement?

As a child care business, a Child Care Agreement is the main contract your customers agree to when they engage your services. 

Generally, it will set out a clear outline of what services you are offering, how payments are managed, what happens in the event of a dispute, and other important protections and limitations.

Why Do I Need A Child Care Agreement?

A Child Care Agreement is essential for child care providers, as it clearly states your roles and responsibilities as a carer and protects your business in the event of a dispute. 

A Child Care Agreement will:

• Manage client expectations. Child Care Agreements clearly set out what services you offer to your clients and the pricing of these services. This will include provisions regarding expected timeframes, costs and additional services, and what happens in cases where a client is unhappy or a child has been hurt.

• Account for things going wrong. What happens if a client cancels an appointment? What happens if something goes wrong and a child is injured? A Child Care Agreement will cover all bases and outline what each party is entitled to should situations like these arise. 

• Limit your liability. A Child Care Agreement contains disclaimers and waivers that protect you if disputes arise about the way you conduct your business.

What Is Included In A Child Care Agreement?

The details included within a Child Care Agreement will vary between child care providers, depending on what services the business offers and what protections need to be put in place. 

However, a Child Care Agreement will generally include clauses relating to:

• Payment and late payment

• Expectations and obligations of both parties

• Limitations of liability

Need Help?

Having an experienced lawyer draft your Child Care Agreement will ensure that your business is fully protected and that you and your clients are on the same page — leaving you to focus on your important work!

To ensure your Child Care Agreement properly protects your business, get in touch with our friendly team on 1800 730 617 or at team@sprintlaw.com.au.

Aidan Watt

Aidan is a lawyer at Sprintlaw, with experience working at both a market-leading corporate firm and a specialist intellectual property law firm.