Policies
Arrivals and Departures
It is normal for some children to have a difficult time separating from parents and may cry when being dropped off. Be assured that I will do everything I can to make this transition as easy as possible. I have found that having an arrival routine very helpful to the child to anticipate what to expect. After checking your child in, have a brief routine; a hug and kiss good-bye with assurances that you will return when you finish working usually works best. You know your child and I will take your lead. Experts recommend that you always say good-bye and don't try to sneak out. After your child realizes that you are truly gone, they start to playing. Feel free to call me after you leave to make sure your child has transitioned.
Pick up times can be just as challenging. It is often a busy time with parents coming and going; while trying to find out about their child's day. Children sense that I am distracted and may start to act up. This is a common time of testing; when two different authority figures are present. The child may act up to see who is in charge and what they can get away with. Feel free to call me after hours or at nap time to hear about your child's day, if pick up time is too difficult to hold a conversation. Children often want your undivided attention at the end of the day, and have a hard time waiting for the adults to have a conversation. They miss you!
To ensure the best care possible, please inform me of any pertinent information at arrival; such as woke up early, went to bed late, had a busy weekend, last feeding, medicine given, had a hard morning, etc.
To ensure the safety of the children, an appropriate car seat must be used at all times. Many clients find it helpful to purchase two seats, one for Mom's car and one for Dad's; so that a forgotten car seat or an unexpected pick up won't cause a problem.
Clothing
This program is designed to keep children active both indoors and out. Children should be dressed in play clothes, not their good party clothes. Playing and learning can get quite messy. I will offer smocks and bibs for use during meals or messy activities.
Have you children arrive dressed in play clothes, sunscreened, and in comfortable shoes that are good for running and walking. Some of the flip flops are cute, but are not made for all the activities this program provides. I will assume that you have put on the first application of sunscreen, and I will continue every few hours that we are outside. This is especially critical on field trip days when I am trying to get lunches made and out the door. We will never get out the door in time if I have to screen six children. If you want your child to have a certain brand of sunscreen, please indicate this on the proper form and provide that brand in their bag or drawer.
Please provide an extra set of clothing, including underwear and socks; and more sets for those who are currently potty training. Please label all clothing, I cannot be responsible for lost or damaged clothing.
Communication
I find communication between myself and the clients critical to do my job well. I encourage parents to come to me with any questions, suggestions, or if clarity is needed. I love feedback. My job, as I see it, is to provide care and support to you as a family; so that you feel comfortable and can do your job well without worrying about your child's well being and the care provided. Strong families produce strong children and strong communities. I want to support you in this awesome responsibility of raising strong children.
I email a monthly newsletter to keep my clients informed on activities, field trips, and other tidbits. I post all scheduled field trips on the white board above the computer. Please let me know if you would like a hard copy of the newsletter. I will send periodic emails with pictures of our activities for your viewing pleasure, forwarding to family and friends, or online ordering.
Meals
I provide all meals, organic when possible, except baby food and formula. Whole milk is offered to children between the ages of 12 and 24 months, otherwise I offer low fat milk. Water is encouraged between meals. Breakfast is served at approximately 8:30. Lunch is around 12:30 and snack at 4:00. If your child is not here at those times, please feed your child(ren) prior to arrival. I do not allow eating all over the house. Meals are served family style at the table or highchair. Healthy eating habits start when children are young. I prepare healthy meals and teach good nutrition. Parents who want their child to have a special diet or eat special foods must provide those foods. Food is shared by all, so please bring plenty if you bring your own food. I encourage children to try new foods, but allow them to spit out whatever is unpleasant to them. All food allergies must be posted in writing.
I do offer treats for birthdays, holidays and other special events. The birthday child is allowed to pick what we eat and what we do. They are the king or queen for the day. Often they want to go to Chuck E Cheese or McDonald's for their special day. I discourage gum chewing for this age group. To avoid problems in a group setting, I ask that gum be thrown away prior to arrival.
Please ask for a complete copy of the Policy Handbook when you come to visit.
