IT IS IMPORTANT FOR PARENTS AND PROVIDERS TO DEVELOP A PARTNERSHIP.

Some points to consider in this quest:

• Communication - providers need to know if your child had a rough night or morning, as well as if a visit from Grandma is in the near future. This helps her deal with situations and behavior that may come up during the day.

• Sickness - be aware of your provider's sick policy and abide by it. Many parents use the 6 hour fever reducer, thinking the "provider won't know". Nothing breaks down the trust more than a parent thinking they can sneak a sick child to daycare. This may save you a sick-day from work but makes an uncomfortable day for your child, and just as important - exposes a houseful of children as well as your provider to an infection. Trying to avoid one sick-day may actually result in a week without care for your child if your provider should get sick. Your provider has policies for a reason. If you don't understand them, ask.

• Arguing with your provider in front of your child - This does nothing constructive for your child. Diminishing the importance of your provider's concern also diminishes her authority in your child's eyes. To snicker about a concerned behavior or to say "He does that all the time at home" only makes the situation worse. Parents should work together with the provider, showing your child that you are a team. If you question her decisions, that should be done away from the ears of your child.

• Payday - Parents would not work for an employer if they had to ask for their paycheck every week or if they had to work late hours without overtime pay. Be aware of payday, as well as drop-off and pick-up times.

• Ask questions - If parents are not sure about any situation or policy, don't assume - ask! Letting things fester inside you only makes them get worse. Children, at times, may be little tape recorders but their comments are not always accurate. If you need clarification about something your child said happened at daycare, call your provider ASAP. She can answer your questions and put your mind at ease.