Childminders across the UK are opening their doors for the summer holidays—and if you’re one of them, now is the perfect time to review your short-term contracts, payment policies, and activity plans to ensure your business stays protected and profitable.
The summer holidays can be a fantastic opportunity to offer flexible childcare to school-aged children or top up care for existing families.
Why Use a Short-Term Contract for Summer Holiday Childcare?Short-term contracts help set clear expectations for:
* Payments and booking commitments
* Drop-off/pick-up times and days
* Activities and associated fees
* Behaviour expectations and safeguarding
* Refunds, cancellations, or absences
These agreements ensure you are legally protected, parents understand your terms, and children benefit from consistent care.
1. Payment Terms – Upfront, Weekly or Monthly?
There are several payment models that can work during the summer:
* Full 6 weeks upfront (most secure for you)
* Deposit to secure the place, followed by weekly payments in advance
* Monthly payments, due before the month begins
* Minimum booking hours per week (e.g., at least 10 hours/week)
✅ Top tip: Always take payment before care is provided. Avoid pay-on-the-day arrangements.
Since funding hours only apply to your children who attend term-time, you are free to:* Charge your usual hourly rate for all hours booked
* Include additional fees for meals, outings, or special activities
* Be transparent with your charging—include this in the contract or booking form
🧾 Note: If you apply your funding to term-time only, rather than stretching your funding, you are under no obligation to offer the same rate or service outside of funded periods.
Summer is a great time to include:
* Local outings (parks, splash pads, libraries)
* Themed activity days (pirate day, baking day, nature day)
* Craft supplies and enrichment play
If you plan to charge extra for special activities (e.g., soft play entry, public transport, day trips), make this clear in writing:
* Provide a list of planned activities with dates and costs
* Get written permission from parents
* Keep receipts for transparency
💡 Consider offering a "Summer Activity Package" at a flat rate to keep things simple.
Even for short-term care, your usual policies apply. Be sure to outline:
* What happens if a child is unwell or doesn’t attend
* Your notice period for cancellations
* Refund or credit policy for missed sessions
* Expectations around behaviour, especially for older children
Parents are feeling the pinch—but so are providers. Consider offering:
* A small sibling discount
* A multi-week discount (e.g., book 4+ weeks and get one day free)
* Clearly communicated options (e.g., full-day vs. half-day)
But don’t undercharge or compromise your terms to fill spaces. Remember: You’re providing professional care, planning enriching activities, and giving up your summer too!
✅ Have a written contract or booking form for each child
✅ Take payment in advance—weekly, monthly or in full
✅ Outline hours, fees, and activities clearly
✅ Share your holiday policies (your days off, if any)
✅ Offer a fun, safe, engaging environment with flexibility
