| LET ME INTRODUCE MYSELF: I am a mother of a seven year old girl and a six year old boy. I live with my husband Bruce, our two children, our dog and three cats. I have a bachelors degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering from McMaster University. I worked in the Biochemistry and Genetics fields (in the capacity of manufacturing, quality control, research and development) for several years before deciding to open a home day care. I have been running my child care facility since September 2005. I worked with Wee Watch Enriched Home Child Care for 2 years before deciding to run a private home child care on my own. My primary experience with children comes from being a mother and aunt. I have also taught children�s Sunday School. I chose to become a child care Provider because I love children and take great joy out of helping children reach their full potential. I strive to provide high quality childcare and I strengthen this goal through continued education including courses, workshops, literature and provider support networks. I am an active member of the Durham Regional Home Child Care Association. In order to make our relationship as enjoyable as possible and to prevent any misunderstandings, I have created this handbook. While I realize that it is quite lengthy, past experience has taught me that it is best to be as thorough as possible when explaining the polices and procedures under which I operate my day care to a new family. Please read this handbook carefully, and after reading each section, please initial in the appropriate place. Please feel free to discuss with me any questions that you may have. Failure to initial any section on this handbook may result in your application being rejected. CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT: All discussions between myself and the parents/guardians of children in my care will be kept confidential. I will not divulge any confidential information to any person without prior written consent from the parents/guardians. The only exception to this would be in the case where child abuse is suspected. Parent Initials:_____________ MY CHILDCARE PHILOSOPHY: It is my number one goal to provide quality care that meets the developmental needs of all the children. I provide a safe and happy place where children can learn and grow physically, emotionally, intellectually and socially at their own pace. I believe children learn through play and benefit from a structured yet flexible schedule. The development of strong self-esteem is also a major goal. Children will be taught to respect each other, adults, and property. Your child will receive quality personal and individualized care in a warm and loving home. Your child will have the opportunity to gain practice in language, fine motor, gross motor, pre-reading, pre-math, science, self-help and social skills. I understand the needs of parents, being a parent myself, and I try to provide a day care situation that I would want my own children to be apart of if I were still working outside the home. Parent Initials:_____________ NUMBER RESTRICTIONS: I supply individual attention to each child and provide a routine but flexible environment. I adapt the program to the individual needs of each child. For this reason, I limit the number of children from each age group. There will be no more than 5 daycare children present at one time in compliance with the Day Nurseries act. I also limit my group to no more than two children under eighteen months old and no more than three children under two and a half years old. I will only accept new children into my care if I feel they will fit in with my current group and program. Parent Initials:_____________ HOURS OF OPERATION: Normal hours of operation are from 7 am until 5:30 pm. I may agree to extended hours, overnight or weekend care. The hours and days that your child will be expected to be in daycare will be outlined your contract. I must be informed as soon as possible if your child will be absent, or arriving or leaving outside of his or her regularly scheduled hours. In case of emergencies or other problems, which may hinder you from picking up your child on time, I would greatly appreciate the consideration of a quick phone call. I require one weeks notice if you need to make changes to the hours of care required. I also reserve the right to terminate our agreement if the new hours will not work well for my childcare business. Parent Initials:_____________ PAYMENT PROCEDURES: The rate schedule for my daycare is: Full Time under 3 years old (5 full days a week, within regular daycare hours) : $150/week Part Time under 3 years old (less than 5 full days a week): $30/day for full day or $5/hour (or part there of) less than 5 hours a day. Full Time (4 +): $140/week Part Time (4 +): $28/day Before and after school rates are $15/ hour for both or $10 for just before or after school. Weekly fees will be according to your contracted hours and not your actual attendance. Extended hours/ weekends: $40/day Payment is due every other week on your last day of the week. Cash, cheques or electronic payment will be accepted. If a cheque is returned to me for non-sufficient funds, you will be required to pay all fees that I incur as a result of the returned cheque. In addition, I will only accept cash payment from you from that point forward. I will give you a minimum of two week�s notice of any increase in your childcare fee. There are a limited number of spaces available, and a space has been reserved for your child that cannot be filled on a short-term basis. Therefore, payments are not based on the child's attendance. No refunds are given for late arrivals/early departures, or exclusion due to illness or any other reason. Parent�s Initials: ________ EXPLANATION OF FEES: This is my chosen profession. I choose to provide childcare because I find satisfaction making a difference in the life of a child and to be apart of first discoveries and mastery of new skills. However, like most people, I also work because my family needs the income. Your fees are my entire income. Beyond that your fees pay for special childcare insurance, professional development, healthy food, new toys and equipment, art supplies, office supplies, learning materials and all of the other things that your child will use. For children over the age of 18 months, a preschool program is provided at no additional cost. Most people work an average 40 hours a week. I work well over 60 hours a week. That does not include my training, program preparation and planning time, bookkeeping, paper work, shopping and cleaning time. I hope that this gives you a better idea of what your childcare dollars cover. Parent Initials: ________ LATE PAYMENT: Your fees are due no later than your last day of the week every other week. I expect to be payed on time. Imagine how you would feel if your employer was late sending you your pay or said �I will be back later�. I rely on my pay just as you do. If anyone consistently pays late I will insist on being paid in advance before the child starts care for the week. I reserve the right to charge a $5/day late payment fee. Should it become necessary to go to court over non-payment of fees owed, you will be responsible for all cost incurred and attorney fees. Parent�s Initials: ________ PART TIME CARE: I reserve the right to enforce a weekly minimum for part time families. All children in my care count toward my maximum number of children allowed and therefore, a space will be held available for your child on the days you have contracted. You will pay for your contracted (or the weekly minimum) hours regardless of attendance. If your schedule changes form week to week (and you need care on different days each week), you will be expected to pay for a minimum of 3 days a week regardless of attendance. If your schedule changes from week to week, you must have me approve your schedule at least a week in advance. A months notice of schedule changes is appreciated. I may not be able to accommodate all schedule changes since I have a limited number of day care spaces each day. If your schedule changes after I have approved it, you will be expected to pay according to the schedule and not actual attendance. Any additional days your child is in care will be charged full fees. All policies affecting full time child will also apply to part time children. I must be informed of any cancellations as soon as possible. You are allowed up to two weeks vacation a year where payment will not be expected. For example, if your child is registered for two days a week, you are allowed 4 days a year vacation. Any additional vacation days or cancellations will be charged. I offer part time care as a courtesy to give a break to parents who work shifts or part time. It is my experience that all part time children usually end up occupying a full time space. Please understand that since your child is taking up a full time spot and only paying for a part time attendance, you are taking income away from my family. If I feel that anyone is abusing this service and not respecting my business, I reserve the right to cancel this service or charge everyone my full time rate. Parent�s Initials: ________ EXTENDED HOURS CARE: Provided a minimum of one weeks notice is given, I may approve evening, overnight or weekend care. Evening and overnight care must not exceed 2 nights a week per family. I may agree to after hours care with short notice in emergency circumstances. Please respect that any time after 5:30 PM is my family and personal time. If I agree to care for your child during off hours please ensure you pick up your child on time. If your schedule changes and you no longer require extended hours care, please notify me as soon as possible. This service is offered as a courtesy. I understand that not all parents work from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. If I feel this service is abused or that my time is not being respected, I reserve the right to refuse this service. Children who are in my care during off hours may be transported in my car as I may need to bring my child to an appointment or run an errand. My regular preschool program runs between 8 AM and 5:30 PM. I will provide children with stimulating activities during off hours but there will be less structure. Dinner will be served between 5:30PM and 6PM. If your child is in care at this time, your child will be served dinner. Bedtime is 8PM. If your child is in care after 8 PM, he or she will be expected to lay down for bed. Any care after 8PM is considered overnight care. I participate in professional development workshops on a regular basis. For this reason, I will be closing at 5:30PM a few days each month. I will post all dates when extended care will not be available in the monthly newsletter. Parent Initials:_____________ SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN: I do take school-aged children for before and after school care. If a full days care is needed due to PA days, school breaks or summer holidays, my regular full days fee will be charged. If your child does not attend the childcare on some PA days and school holidays, you will be expected to pay the full days fee ($28) as I have to hold the space open for your child just in case you need it. If your child does not attend for March Break and Christmas Break and a full weeks notice is given, it will count as your vacation time. Please understand that all children attending the day care count toward my allowed number of children. For this reason, I require school aged children to be registered for a minimum of two hours a day. Also, I may not have a spot for your child on days when he or she is not registered to attend. The above policies apply to children attending during regular hours. Older children are expected to follow the rules of the daycare and to respect me and the other children. Older children will be expected to pick up after themselves and to use manners just as the younger children do. I will supply a variety of materials for school aged children including: crafts, puzzles, word search, books and Lego. I also have video games, computer games and a TV with a satellite dish. Children will not be permitted to watch TV or play video games for more than an hour a day. I encourage older children to participate in planned programing. Older children may bring activities from home to keep them busy but must keep small parts, pencils, and other dangerous items away from the younger children. I do not allow school aged children to play outside unsupervised. Parent Initials:_____________ SCHOOL ESCORTS: I provide school escorts to and from Waverley Public school only. Please bring your child dressed for the weather as we walk to and from school. Please plan to drop off or pick up your children either before or after school runs. I cannot wait for late comers as that will make the children late for school. If you allow your child to walk to and from school unescorted or with any person under the age of 18, I require a written statement from you. I am only responsible for children once they arrive at my house. Parent�s Initials: ________ PROVIDER VACATION & ABSENCES: Although very rewarding, childcare is also a very high stress occupation. In order for me to be the best possible provider that I can be, I need time to relax, recoup and recharge. Each year the day care will be closed on certain days during the Christmas Holidays. These holidays will include December 25, 26, 31 and January 1. The daycare may also be closed for up to three weeks vacation during the year. I try to base these vacation days in conjunction with the day care parents holidays so as to be less disruptive to everyone involved with the day care. Notification of at least two weeks will be given prior to any closed days, with the exception of emergencies or illness. No payment of fees will be expected for holidays that are pre-arranged by the provider. Although I will make every effort to be available each day, there will be occasions when I am not able to provide service. You will be notified as soon as possible of any personal or family illness, funeral or emergency. I strongly suggest that you have a family member, a friend, or a substitute provider lined up for the times that I am closed due to illness or emergency. If need be, I can try to arrange a back-up provider for you. On occasion I may need to schedule appointments during daycare hours and I may need to leave for up to 2 hours. I will do my best to schedule the appointment first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. I may also offer you the option of having my husband watch your child during my appointment or I may bring your child with me. I will give as much notice as possible for appointments. If a back-up plan for my appointment is offered (Bruce watches children, I take the children with me, you pick up an hour earlier) and you choose not to send your child that day, full payment will be expected. Parent�s Initials: ________ PARENT VACATION AND ABSENCES: Parents may take up to two weeks per year vacation where payment of fees will not be expected provided one full weeks advance notice is given (more notice would be appreciated). For example, if your child attends four days a week, you will be allowed 8 days a year vacation. After these two weeks, you will be required to pay a 50% holding fee for additional vacation weeks. Vacation may only be taken in blocks of at least 3 days (if child is registered for more than 3 days a week). Individual days taken for vacation will be charged full fees. If you keep your child home for three days or more and do not wish to count it as your vacation (and have not used up your 2 weeks allowed) full fees will be charged. Parent Initials: ________ SCHOOL BOARD EMPLOYEES AND EXTENDED LEAVE: If childcare is not required during the months of July and August, a non refundable holding fee equal to a full week of care ($140) will be required to guarantee your spot for September. Also, parents wishing to take summers and other school holidays off will waver their two weeks holidays a year. Parents who work on the school calendar will be allowed Christmas break, march break as well as July and August off without payment. However , all additional days will require full payment. This includes vacation, sick days , PA days and any other days where the child does not attend daycare during the school year. In cases of extended leave (due to illness or maternity), I will require you to pay a holding fee of $50 your regular fees each week. This only applies to leave that is taken with a full weeks notice. Therefore, if no notice is given, full fees will be charged for the first week of absence. I will not hold a spot for your child indefinitely. The length of time your spot will be held open without full payment will be up to my discretion. Parents Initials: ________ STATUTORY HOLIDAYS: Fees are required for all statutory holidays including New Years Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Civic Holiday, Labour Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Part time parents will pay for all days when your child is registered to attend but does not. For example if your child attends Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays, you will pay for all statutory holidays which fall on those days. If you require care for a statutory holiday, additional fees will be applied. Please notify me at least a week in advance if your child will be attending on a Statutory Holiday. If a statutory holiday falls on the weekend, I may decide to close on the Monday following the holiday. If I decide to close due to a statutory holiday, your regular fees will be applied for that week. Parents Initials: ________ TAXES I will supply you with a year-end summary of all day care fees paid during the year, for tax purposes. This will be given to you in February of each year. You may request your receipt earlier if services have been terminated. Parent�s Initials: ________ HOLDING FEE POLICY: Once you have decided to enroll your child in care you will need to start your child in care within one month. I may hold a vacancy for longer than one month, with non-refundable holding fee of $140. If the child/children do not attend day care due to other child care arrangements being made for the child, this fee becomes non-refundable. The holding fee is due as soon as you request the spot and will be applied towards your first weeks tuition. Failure to pay this holding fee will result in the day care spot being made available to other clients. Parents Initials: ________ TERMINATION: I reserve the right to re-evaluate any child, or family�s continued participation in my day care program to determine that I can adequately meet the needs of the child and/or family. If I feel my program does not provide what the child/family needs, or that it is not in the best interest of the other children/families in my program for the child/family to continue in my care, I will provide the parent with a �Termination Notice� which will include the reasons for termination, the last date care will be provided, and any suggestions I have for alternate care. I will also be happy to assist parents in finding a new provider. I reserve the right to terminate for the following reasons (but not limited to): Failure to pay Failure to complete the required forms Failure to comply with the communication policies. Withholding relevant information about your child, your schedule or your family situation. Failure to inform me of schedule changes or cancellations Lack of parental cooperation Failure of the child to adjust to the day care after a reasonable amount of time Physical or verbal abuse of any person or property My inability to meet the child�s needs Lack of compliance with handbook regulations Serious illness of my children or myself Two weeks notice will be given unless the child is an immediate danger to himself or the other children or the parent displays blatant disrespect and disregard for me, the children in my care or my policies. If two weeks notice is given and you choose to remove your child early, you will be required to pay for those two weeks. Immediate termination can occur for behavior problems, or dangerous parental situations. If I, for the above or any other reason to be at my discretion, give immediate termination, you will only be required to pay up to your child's last day. Parents Initials: ________ WITHDRAWAL: Parents may withdraw the child from my care by giving two weeks notice in writing. Please provide a written statement that includes the last date of care and the reasons for withdrawal. If two weeks notice is not given, you will be required to pay for those two weeks before your child leaves my care. Absences of more that one week without notification and/or payment of tuition will result in an automatic withdrawal. All back pay including the pay for the required two weeks notice will be required. Parents Initials: __________ COMMUNICATION: Communication is very important to me. When I accept a new family into my business, I like to be sure that we can share openly any concerns or questions that may arise. It is important that there is a similar child care philosophy between us. I welcome questions, feedback, or discussions of any kind that are oriented towards a positive outcome for the children. It is only through parent/provider interaction that a goal of quality, nurturing care can be achieved. Sensitive issues will be discussed in private outside of regular childcare hours either by telephone or conference. Conferences will not be scheduled as a routine part of your child�s care; however, should you like to have a conference, you may request one at any time. You can email me at [email protected] . I would also like to have your email address as well in order to communicate with you and to send you pictures of your child. You are encouraged to call me at any time. If you call during the day, please be aware that I may be busy with the children and may not be able to answer the phone. If you leave a message on my voice mail, I will call you back as soon as possible. There is a message board in the entrance way that will explain some of the activities we are doing, our current curriculum themes, events that will be happening during the month, my days off, safety information, enrollment and any other pertinent or fun information that may be of interest to you. The message board is kept up to date. Parents are encouraged to review the message board each week. Each child has a daily journal. Some typical things you will find in this journal are menu, diaper changes, temperament, naps, activities and things to remember. I ask that you return the journal every day so I can keep it up to date. I use the pockets of the journals to send home art work, newsletters or notes. It is your responsibility as parents to review all information presented on the bulletin board or sent home in your child's book. I welcome feedback, questions and suggestions from parents. If a child voices a concern about his or her care, it is important that I am informed about the situation. Please do not feel that your concerns would be hurtful to me. I am always willing to work with my daycare families to adjust schedules, menu plans, curriculum, activities or any other aspect of my childcare within reason. I believe that childcare is a partnership between the Provider and Parents. I expect open two way communication. If at anytime I suspect a family of failing to communicate openly with me, the partnership may be discontinued for the good of the children involved. I am looking forward to a terrific relationship with you and your child! Parent Initials:_____________ OPEN DOOR POLICY: Parents are welcome to stop by any time their child is in my care. Since we go on regular outings please understand that we will not be in the house at all times. I will carry a cell phone with me on outings if parents need to locate me. Parents can let themselves into the daycare to drop off or pick up children during regular drop-off and pick-up times. I will lock the daycare door outside of regular drop-off and pick-up times. Parents are free to enter any part of the house that is used for childcare. Parent Initials:_____________ DAYCARE SPACE: The daycare space includes the basement playroom, craft room and bathroom. The daycare has a separate entrance from the living area. Meals are served in the dining room. The living room is used for TV viewing and quiet time activities. We play outside in my backyard, deck and also in the front yard/driveway. I supervise the children at all times (within visual range). For safety reasons, the daycare children are not permitted in any bedrooms, the laundry room or the garage. Parent Initials:_____________ ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES It is normal for some children to have difficulty separating from parents, or cry when being dropped off. Please be very brief (no more than 5 minutes) during drop-off times; the longer you prolong the departure the harder it gets. A smile, cheerful good-bye kiss, and a reassuring word that you will be back are all that is needed. In my experience, children are nearly always quick to get involved in play or activities as soon as parents are gone. Please be assured that if your child is having a difficult time settling down and is crying for a prolonged period of time, I will contact you. Please be very brief at pick-up times also. This is a time of testing when two different authority figures are present (the parent and the provider), and the children will test to see if the rules still apply. Please help show your child that you respect me, the rules of my house, and my property by reminding them that the rules still apply when you are around. When you are here with your child, you are expected to discipline your child when their behavior warrants it. If you do not correct him/her, I will enforce my rules, and this is likely to cause a conflict. Please bring your child dressed (in weather appropriate clothing) and ready to begin their day. Children should be transported to and from daycare according to provincial laws concerning car seats and seat belts. If there is a question as to who will be picking up your child, leave the car seat here . Please feel free to let yourself in and out of the day care during regular drop-off and pick-up times. I can not always answer a knock on the door as I am busy with the children. If you are going to be late or excessively early dropping off or picking up your child, I expect a phone call. I have activities planned at specific times each day. These activities may include trips to the park or Early Years centre or walks to school. If you are late, I will not wait for you. You are welcome to drop your child off at the school, park or EYC if that works better for your schedule. Parent�s Initials: ________ ENTRANCE WAY: The entrance way to the childcare has several hooks for coats and cubbies for each child. Children are expected to put their own belonging away on the hooks and cubbies. Please set a good example for your child by placing things brought from home in your childs' cubbie. This will teach responsibility and help keep the area neat. Also, please remove your child's shoes and your own shoes when entering the child care space. Please don't place plastic bags, small toys, creams, medications or other items that could be dangerous for small children in your child's cubbie . Please place all diaper bags or back packs on the high shelf beside the daycare entrance (we wouldn't want little hands to get into them). Parent�s Initials: ________ RELEASING A CHILD TO AN UNKNOWN PERSON: My normal procedure is to release the child only to his/her parents or someone the parents have designated. If someone other than the parent is to pick up the child, please notify me ahead of time. A verbal notice is fine on that day if this person is on the list of people who are authorized to pick up your child. If the person is NOT on that list, I must have written permission to release your child. Please inform emergency contacts, or people designated to pick up your child, that if I do not know them, I will need to ask for photo identification. I do not mean to offend them. This is simply a measure taken for your child�s protection. I will not let a child leave without a parent�s verbal permission even if that person is listed as one of your designated pickup people. I will not release a child to any person under the age of 18. If you cannot pick your child up, please make sure you designate a responsible adult. I am not responsible for your child once he or she leaves my care. If there is a court order keeping one parent away from the child, I must have a written note from the custodial parent in my file to that effect. Otherwise I cannot prevent the non-custodial parent from picking up the child. Parent�s Initials: ________ EMERGENCY PROCEDURES: I have first aid and child CPR training which I will keep up to date. I will take emergency information on each child with me on all outings. I will record any minor injuries in the child's journal or discuss the incident with the parent at pick-up. If the incident is serious, could result in head, neck, back or internal damage or if the child displays unusual behaviour, I will call the parents immediately. The needs of the children will be placed first and foremost to ensure their health, safety and well-being while in my care. Should an emergency arise, the parent/guardian will be notified as soon as possible. If I can not get a hold of you, the emergency contacts will be called. The first priority will be to attend to the child's needs. If I need to call 911, all fees associated with emergency services will be the parents responsibility. In the event that I have to go with a child to the Hospital, my husband Bruce or a neighbour will serve as my emergency back-up and will care for the other children. In this situation, all parents will be contacted as soon as possible. Parent Initials:_____________ HEALTH MATTERS: Little Leapers Child Care is a �well child� facility. At no time do I provide sick childcare. The following illness policies will be strictly enforced, for the health, well-being and safety of all concerned. Please do not bring a sick child to day care if the child shows any signs of illness or is unable to participate in the normal routine and regular day care program. Sick children expose other children to the spread of illness and require additional care and attention that I am unable to give them. Please keep in mind that when small children are not feeling well, the thing that they need most is TLC from Mom and Dad and to be in the comfort of their own home. If other children become ill due to exposure to your child, either because he/she was returned to day care before full recovery or because he/she was not picked up promptly upon notice of becoming ill, other parents will be unnecessarily inconvenienced. If my family or I become ill due to exposure to a sick day care child, all of the day care children may need to arrange alternate care. Because this is disruptive to other children and their families, as well as my own, your cooperation on this issue is extremely important. Children will be visually screened when they arrive in the morning. In the event a child becomes ill and needs to be picked up, the parent(s) will be called and are expected to come pick the child up within one hour (60 minutes). If the parent(s) cannot be reached or have not arrived within an hour, the emergency contact person will be called and asked to pick up the child. For the benefit of the other children in my care, if your child is sent home due to illness, he/she must be symptom free of the illness for 12 hours prior to returning to care. The child may return 24 � 48 hours (depending upon the illness) after they have received the first dose of an antibiotic. If you aren�t sure about whether or not to bring your child to care, please call me to discuss it. Allergy related symptoms and non-communicable illness do not require exclusion. If your child has a mild cold with clear nose drainage and light cough, he/she may come to day care as long the child is able to participate in day care activities. Symptoms requiring removal of a child from child care: Fever. Fever is defined as having a temperature of 100 degrees F or higher taken under the arm, or 101 degrees F taken orally. A child needs to be fever free, without the aid of Tylenol or any other fever reducing substance, for a minimum of 24 hours before returning to day care Fever AND sore throat, rash, vomiting, diarrhoea, earache, irritability or confusion. Conjunctivitis or pink eye or any type of eye infection, which is highly contagious. Impetigo or any rash until it is identified as not being contagious. Diarrhoea, which is watery or greenish runny bowel movement that looks different and is more frequent than the child�s usual stool. Vomiting; two or more times in a 24 hour period, which is more that the usual spitting up. A severe cold with fever, sneezing and yellowish nose drainage. Frequent scratching of body, scalp, lice, rash or any other spots that resemble childhood diseases, including ringworm. In the case of pediculosis (lice), a child may not return until all the nits and lice have been removed. With the following contagious diseases the child must be kept away from Day Care: a) Measles b) Chicken pox (when a child is uncomfortable and feverish) c) Mumps d) Roseola e) Scarlet fever These guidelines have been established by day care associations and are quite reasonable. I cannot realistically care for a sick child and give proper care to other children in my group. These guidelines are also made with the children�s best interest in mind. Parent�s Initials: _______ ADMINSTRATION OF MEDICATION: I will administer prescription medication to your child if necessary, only under the following circumstances: When the prescription medication is in it�s original container and is clearly labeled with the child�s name, dosage, times to be administered, name of physician, and instructions for administration; and When written authorization is provided by the parent including the parents signature. Parent�s Initials: _______ LIABILITY INSURANCE: I have liability insurance coverage for my child care business. ACTIVITIES & CURRICULUM: Each child will have his/her needs met and will receive individual attention each day. I will spend time with each child; talking to them, holding them, rocking them, playing with them, teaching them, etc., throughout the day. This may take place as they arrive, during an activity, during diaper/potty time, as they wait to go home, and at many other times throughout the day. We will utilize a variety of experiences each day. These experiences range from looking for bugs in the backyard and watching the birds to helping make snacks and cleaning up the playroom. Studies have shown that these types of activities nurture a sense of well being and belonging in children and contribute dramatically towards the development of self-esteem. Age appropriate activities are scheduled with flexibility allowed to respond to the needs of the individual child. The main goal of this child care is to learn while having fun and improving social skills. We will be utilizing a variety of activities to accomplish this goal. Free play, reading, arts and crafts, music/singing, dancing, pretend play, puzzles, games and educational TV/videos are just some of the activities we will be doing. Depending on age there may be a preschool curriculum that will include monthly themes, circle time and pre-reading, pre-math and science skills. Children are not forced to participate in scheduled activities. I do not however allow children to interfere with the other children's' enjoyment of the activity. If a child does not wish to participate in an activity, he or she will be asked to read quietly in the same room that the activity is taking place. Children will not be allowed to wander around the house while scheduled activities are taking place and must remain in my field of vision at all times. It is my goal to have a variety of toys readily available to the children for indoor play. Toys may be rotated or placed temporarily out of use so that the children do not become bored. It is also more difficult for them to help with clean up, when there are toys everywhere, because it is so overwhelming to them. For this reason, during free play times, each child may select one or two things at a time to play with. They will be shown how to put those things away before selecting something else. Parent�s Initials: ________ TV VIEWING: I allow limited TV viewing consisting of educational children�s programs. TV is normally only used during transitions (meal preparation) and quiet time and is not used everyday. On occasion I let the children pick a child appropriate video to watch. Parent�s Initials: ________ OUTDOOR PLAY POLICY: I have scheduled outdoor play time everyday as an important part of a child's care. This outdoor play may include playing in my fenced backyard, visits to local parks and neighbourhood walks. The children will get outdoor exercise and fresh air. The children will be supervised at all times during outdoor play. I have a full play structure in the backyard. The sand in the play area is over a foot deep for safety reasons. The sand is raked regularly to prevent it from compacting. The children also play on my fully enclosed deck or in the front yard at my discretion. A kiddie pool or sprinkler will be used on hot days in the Summer. When a pool is used, it will contain only a small amount of water and children will be supervised closely. Parents are expected to dress children in weather appropriate clothing (hats, sunglasses and sunscreen for the summer and winter coats, hats, mittens and boots in winter). I will adapt the outdoor schedule in cases of inclement weather. Please apply sunscreen to your child each morning before sending her to daycare. I will reapply the sunscreen throughout the day as needed. When we go on neighbourhood walks, younger children may ride in a stroller, wagon or sled (in Winter). Older children will walk and must stay within a safe distance from me. When crossing any road, I ask all children to either hold my hand or hold onto the stroller/wagon. Parent�s Initials: ________ BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT AND DISCIPLINE: My philosophy is that you use discipline to teach a child. I achieve this through love, consistency and firmness. I will never practice corporal punishment on any child in my care. The children are explained the rules of the day care frequently so that they know the guidelines. Once a child understands the rules and disobeys them, hurts others or property, the following developmentally appropriate guidance techniques will be used. These techniques are as follows: 1.Positive Reinforcement: The child will be encouraged when he/she is demonstrating acceptable behavior. 2.Redirection: The child is redirected to another activity and given an opportunity to try again at another time. 3.Time Out: The child is separated from the group for a short period of time. This technique is used only when a child is exhibiting temper tantrum type behavior or hurting self, others or equipment. When the child shows that he/she is ready to demonstrate acceptable behavior, they are encouraged to join the rest of the group and try again. 4.Last Resort: When a child's behavior is continually upsetting or dangerous to others, or myself, a conference will be called with the parents. If the problems can�t be resolved, arrangements will have to be made for the child to go elsewhere for care. Parent�s Initials: _______ HOUSE RULES: Please respect my profession, my home and me. The respect that you show me including my home, furnishings, equipment, yard and other children will communicate itself to your child and will make for a better working relationship. There are certain house rules that all children will be taught and expected to follow. The following rules are enforced for the safety and well being of everyone. 1) Do not do anything to hurt anyone . Hitting, pushing, biting, grabbing, kicking, spitting, or pinching other children/infants/adults /pets will NOT be allowed. 2) Do not do anything to hurt yourself. No standing or climbing on chairs, tables, or furniture. No playing on the steps (either inside or out). 3) Keep food and drink in the proper area. 4) Do not break anything on purpose. If your child intentionally damages my property through destructive behavior or roughness, you will be liable for the damages. 5) Respect each other. No loud screaming or wild dangerous behavior. No slamming doors. Be considerate of the comfort of others. 6) Children are not allowed in the bedrooms, laundry room or garage. Children are not allowed to wander around the house. All children must stay within my visual range. 7) I do not allow language that is disrespectful or insulting to anyone. I do not allow potty talk to take place anywhere except the bathroom (when appropriate). I also do not allow children to use the Lords name in vain or use any other language which could be considered offensive. 8) No smoking is permitted anywhere on my property at anytime, this is a requirement of the Day Nurseries Act. Parent�s Initials: _______ MEALS: The children are offered food, not forced to eat. Children who choose not to eat will not be served additional food until the next mealtime. For infants, parents need to provide formula/breast milk and baby food until the age when table food can be served. I have limited time to prepare meals as I am busy with the children. Therefore, children will be served quick and easy to prepare foods such as sandwiches, soup and pasta. Food is always prepared with the childs' developmental needs in mind. Foods that pose a choking hazard will be cooked or quartered for toddlers. I will feed the children breakfast, lunch and two snacks and dinner as required. I will offer nutritious meals and snacks based on Canada�s Food Guide. My family are Vegetarians and thus I do not normally serve meat. I do occasionally serve meat to non-vegetarian children. Most meals will be plant based and all meals will contain foods from all four food groups. I am not a short order cook and will not make special meals if a child if very selective. The children will be served a variety of foods from each food group at each meal. The food will be placed on the child's plate but the child will not be forced to eat. Please understand that I feed several children at a time and each child has different food preferences. While I try to accommodate tastes, I cannot always please every child. If your child chooses not to eat a meal he or she will have to wait until the next meal or snack time. I also will not tolerate a child criticizing a food or discouraging other children from eating something. I will encourage the children to try one bite of a new food but will not make them finish what is on their plate. I will provide second and third helpings to the children until they are full. I will not serve any food to children between meals. I also will not compromise nutrition to cater to a child's food preferences. I limit food that are high in sugar. I serve whole grain breads and pasta. I do not add sugar, salt, butter or margarine to fresh or prepared foods. Meals and snacks are served at designated times. If your child arrives after meal service time, you will be required to feed him or her at home. Please let me know if your child has any dietary restrictions due to allergies, religious or personal beliefs. If a child has a particular dietary need, I must be informed in detail. If your child has numerous restrictions or food allergies, I may require you to send meals from home. Little Leapers in not a nut free facility. I do serve nut products to the children. If you do not wish your child to be served nuts, please inform me during registration. Keep in mind that there may be traces of nuts in my house and in the food I serve. I do offer the children treats on special occasions. I also have the children help bake muffins for snack from time to time. Parent�s Initials: _______ BEVERAGES: Unsweetened fruit juice, water or milk will be served at each meal or snack. Children will not be served juice or milk between meals. Children will not be permitted to wander around with a sippy cup containing juice or milk between meals. All children have free access to clean drinking water throughout the day. Younger children will have a sippy cup of water available to them at all times. Older child are free to help themselves to water at any time. Parent�s Initials: ________ DENTAL HYGENE: I stock toothbrushes with each child's name on them in the daycare bathroom. Your child will be encouraged to brush his or her teeth after meals. Parent�s Initials: ________ POTTY TRAINING: I will be more than happy to help with the potty training provided that it is not done before the child is ready. Parents are asked to initiate the training at home (on vacation or weekend) before starting it at day care. Once training is initiated, parents are to supply several pairs of underwear and changes of clothes or pull-ups. I will try to send your child to the potty throughout the day when necessary. I will not force a child to use the potty if he or she does not want to. Potty seats are disinfected after each use. Parent�s Initials: ________ DIAPER CHANGES: Diapers are checked and/or changed approximately every two hours or more frequently if required. Parents are expected to provide all diapering supplies including a diaper pad. Each child will have their own diaper pad for sanitary reasons. Diaper pads are disinfected after each use. If you wish me to use creams or other products on your child's diaper area, I require written instructions. Parent�s Initials: ________ SUPPLIES NEEDED: This program is designed to keep children active, both indoors and out. Messy activities such as painting, sensory play, play dough and outdoor play will be included. Children should wear appropriate clothing to accommodate the activities they will be involved in. Please don�t dress your child in his/her �Sunday Clothes� and expect them to stay clean. I will have the children wear smocks during messy activities if possible. I will try to apply stain treater to soiled clothing to prevent staining. Parents are responsible for supplying the following: For Infants : - Diapers, Wipes and changing pad Weather appropriate change of clothes (2 full changes of clothes) Swim suit, towel, sun hat and sunscreen in summer time Comfort item for rest time In the winter, I will require an extra set of mittens and an extra hat, snow pants and warm coat. Bottles and baby food needed for each day For Toddlers: - Diapers or Training pants, wipes and a changing pad 2 full weather appropriate changes of clothes Swim suit, towel, sun hat and sunscreen in summer time Comfort item for rest time In the winter I will require an extra set of mittens and an extra hat, snow pants and warm coat. Rain boots and splash pants for wet weather For Preschool and School-aged children: 2 full weather appropriate changes of clothes Swim suit, towel, sun glasses and sunscreen in summer time In the winter I will require an extra set of mittens and an extra hat, snow pants and warm coat Rain boots and splash pants for wet weather Backpack to hold school work and lunch (if needed for school) Parent�s Initials: ________ REST TIME: Rest time or in some cases, quite time, will be based on the child�s age, level of development and needs, and will be discussed with the parent/ guardian. Children will sleep in cots or playpens in the craft room, playroom or foyer between the two rooms. Children will sleep in separate rooms whenever possible. Children who do not sleep will be encouraged to play quietly (books, puzzles, computer time for older children, etc). Children must sit quietly during rest time. If a child does not want to sleep, he or she must respect the needs of other children who do sleep. Children must not run, jump or talk loudly during rest time. All children will rest at the same time to make the daily schedule run smoothly for everyone. I will not leave an infant or toddler in his or her bed to cry or fuss during nap time. This may be disturbing to the other children who are sleeping. If the child will not sleep or wakes up early, he or she will play quietly. Parent�s Initials: ________ ITEMS BROUGHT FROM HOME: I do allow the children to bring a special toy from home if they would like. If your child brings a toy from home, I do require that they share it with all the children. Please make sure your child understands that they must share their toy. If it becomes a problem, I will ask that they not bring anything from home. Do not bring toys with small parts, and please limit the amount of toys sent with your child bring. I am not responsible for lost or broken toys brought from home. If your child has a special blanket or stuffed animal for sleeping with they are welcome to bring it. However, I will put the item away until nap time. Parent�s Initials: ________ TRANSITIONS: Transitions are the most difficult time of the day for many children. To make transitions easier for the children, I give 10 and 5 minute warnings before switching an activity. I also practice routines during transitions. For example, while transitioning from free play to snack time, I give a 10 minute notice and than a 5 minute notice. Then all the children help to tidy up the playroom. Once the playroom is tidy, the children line up to wash their hands. These routines help to give children a sense of security. Ample time is scheduled for transitions to encourage children to practice self help skills. Parent�s Initials: ________ DAILY SCHEDULE AND ROUTINES: I do follow a daily schedule that is posted on the bulletin board. Meals and naps will take place at roughly the same time each day. I do allow for flexibility and will adjust the schedule to accommodate the needs of the children. However, since I have several children to care for each day, I will consider the needs of all the children. All the children will eat and nap at the same times. This makes the day run smoothly for everyone. Parent�s Initials: ________ SANITARY PRACTICES: Maintaining a clean environment helps to prevent the spread of infection. I wash my hands with soap and warm water before and after diapering and after toileting, after coming in from outside and before food handling. The children are all required to wash their hands at these times as well. The following equipment is cleaned and sanitized after each use: potty seats, change pads, mouthed toys, craft table, kitchen counters, dining table and highchairs. The following areas are cleaned and sanitized daily: bathroom sink and toilet, kitchen sinks, floors are swept and washed, carpets are vacuumed. The following areas are cleaned weekly: shelves, doorknobs, light switches, garbage cans, toys and play equipment and bedding and dress-up clothes are washed. Parent�s Initials: ________ SAFETY PRACTICES: I have a fire evacuation plan on the bulletin board. We practice a fire drill each month. I have three smoke detectors and a carbon monoxide detector. These are tested monthly and the batteries are changed bi-annually. I also have a working fire extinguisher. I inspect the facility monthly to ensure it is child safe. Child safety gates, outlet covers, blind cord holders and cabinet latches are used for safety purposes. Medications, knives and other potentially dangerous items are kept out of reach of children. If you would like to see a copy of my safety check list, please inquire. I keep up to date criminal record checks on myself and my husband. I also keep up to date medical information on all my family members. Please ask if you would like to review these documents. Parent�s Initials: ________ PETS: There are three indoor cats living in the house. They are child friendly and have up-to-date vaccinations. The children will not be left alone with the cats. Whenever possible the cats will be kept separate from daycare children. When we are in the playroom or craft room, the doors are kept closed to keep the children in and the cats out. The cats do however wander the house and will at times come in to contact with your children. We also have a very friendly and calm golden retriever named Brandi. The children will have limited and always supervised contact with the dog. All pet food and litter is kept out of reach of the children. Parent�s Initials: ________ BIRTHDAYS AND PARTIES: We will have a party for each child's Birthday, Christmas, Valentines Day, Easter and other special occasions. I will announce these special events in the monthly newsletters. Parents are welcome to bring treats to share or gifts for the children. I will purchase small gifts for Birthdays and Christmas. Parent�s Initials: ________ CAR TRAVEL: I do not normally transport children in my car due to lack of seating capacity. I may occasionally make trips in my car using properly installed car seats. I may ask parents to supply the car seats. These car trips will only take place if necessary (pouring rain, very cold weather, emergency situations, field trips) and provided there are enough proper car seats for each child. Parents will always be given advanced notice of car trips. Parent�s Initials: ________ FIELD TRIPS AND OUTINGS: We will take regular trips to local parks and the Ontario Early Years Centre. We will walk to these locations. I will list the days which we may go to the Early Years Centre in each months Newsletter. Occasionally, theme related field trips may be planned. I will inform Parents in writing of all planned field trips. Children will either be transported in my car using properly installed car seats or we may use public transportation. Parents may be expected to supply car seats for these outings. Extra fees may be charged for field trips. If you do not want your child to attend the outing, it is your responsibility to arrange back-up care (and will be expected to pay full fees for the day). Parent�s Initials: ________ DONATIONS: If you have any of the following items on hand, and are willing to donate them, it would be greatly appreciated. This is not mandatory. Dress-Up clothing - costumes, jewelry, hats, etc. Old magazines for cutting and collages - especially ones that have lots of pictures of people, children or animals. We are looking for pictures that would appeal to children. Paper of any kind; brown, white, colored, wax, foil, etc. Miscellaneous art supplies such as fabric scraps, glitter, paper plates, pipe cleaners, etc. Ideas! We always welcome any ideas that you may find for easy crafts or fun activities. Parents Initials: __________ PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: I encourage parents to participate in your childs' daycare experience. Some examples of ways to be involved include: Chaperoning on field trips. Lending objects for themes. Speaking at circle or sharing time about your job, experiences or interestes that relate to our theme. Helping your child at home with the concepts we are studying here. Helping to provide treats or other items for our parties. Attending your own child�s birthday party. Parents Initials: __________ PHOTOGRAPHS: I frequently take pictures of all the children. These pictures will be included in monthly newsletters, displayed on the bulletin board and may be used on my daycare website. I will also send copies of the pictures (printed or on CD) home with the child from time to time or e-mail them to you. If you do not wish to have your child photographed, please let me know. If you do not wish to have your child's pictures included on my daycare website, please inform me in writing. Parent�s Initials: ________ REFERRALS: Referrals from a client are one of the biggest compliments I can receive. As a special thank you, I offer families a free day of childcare for each referral that enrolls. Your free day will be deducted from your weekly fee after the referred child has attended for four weeks. Parent�s Initials: ________ REVISIONS TO HANDBOOK AND CONTRACT: You will receive a yearly revision to this handbook and the accompanying contract. A new contract will be signed by all families each year or any time when your hours or fees change. I reserve the right to make changes in rates and policies as deemed necessary. You will be notified, in writing, of any changes that may occur. Every attempt will be made to give at least two weeks notice of changes. Parents Initials: __________ A FINAL NOTE: I cannot predict every possible situation. If a situation arises in which I feel a policy needs to be created or revised, I will inform all parties involved in writing. This handbook will be revised and reviewed annually. This is my chosen profession. I take my business very seriously. I will not tolerate any disrespect from parents or children in my care. I retain the right to enforce these policies at will. Lack of enforcement of a certain policy at any given time does not indicate that the particular policy is no longer in effect. I/We have read, understand, and agree to comply with the provider�s handbook. _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ Parent�s Signature Date __________________________ _________________________ Provider�s Signature Date Thank you for the opportunity to work with you and your child, and I look forward to the future. |