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StanwoodParent HandbookEarly Bloomers Program PhilosophyOur philosophy is we believe children learn best in a play-based environment. Children are competent, amazing learners that given the opportunity and support from parents and/or caregivers will develop and grow in their own unique way. Children deserve a childhood full of memories that are created by exploring, creating, and spontaneous discoveries. We can provide these experiences through a nurturing, well planned environment that encourages play, exploration, curiosity, and problem solving. Teachers act as facilitators to help children build upon their interests and knowledge by careful observation, meaningful interactions, and documentation. Children have the opportunity to work individually or collaboratively and may choose whether or not to participate in activities. There will be structured and unstructured periods throughout the day enabling children to play, learn, and grow at their own rate. 1Early Bloomers CurriculumBased on our above mentioned philosophy we believe curriculum is not something that is purchased but curriculum is what happens in the classroom every day. We follow an Emergent Curriculum that is based on observation of children’s interests and what is happening in the classroom day by day and week by week. Learning happens when children are interested in what they are doing or playing. Emergent means that planning is based on what is “emerging” from the daily life of the children and adults in the classroom. Children learn by hands on activities that come from their interests. The emergent curriculum focuses on the whole child. We also believe in a strong connection with nature and natural materials that is inspired by a Waldorf philosophy. You will notice our classrooms have natural elements and our schedule has generous outside time. In addition to this we provide structured time to work on math, language and literacy, fine and large motor, social and emotional, and science skills. We believe a balance of both child-directed and teacher-directed activities enables children the most opportunities to succeed. 2EnrollmentYour child is not fully enrolled until we have received a fully completed registration packet, deposit of at least 2 weeks tuition, and $50.00 registration fee. Payments:Tuition is due 2 weeks in advance for care. We do our billing on a monthly basis. If you choose, you may pay your full tuition on the 1st of the month. A $25 late fee will be accrued for any outstanding balances that are not paid 2 weeks in advance. A payment plan must be filled out and followed. Failure of following payment plan may result in disenrollment for care Family Vacation Time/ Absences:After one year of enrollment you will receive vacation time that is equal to one week of your child(s) scheduled week. Example: you attend Monday-Wednesday, you would get 3 days vacation. Your monthly tuition reserves your child’s spot, therefor no credits for absences or sick days or closures. 3Typical Activity Schedule Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday6:00am-6:30pm A $1.00 per minute fee will be assessed for each minute late picking up past our hours of operation. If you have a varying schedule we need your schedule by Thursdays in order to do our staffing schedule for the following week.If you will be more than 30 minutes past or before the arrival and departure times estimated in registration paperwork please communicate at least 24 hours in advance to Director or Manager so classroom will be staffed accordingly and maintain proper staff to child ratios.Example: Preschool Classroom Schedule5:00-7:30Classroom Exploration7:30-8:45 Sensory & Table Activities8:45-9:00Morning Gathering9:00-9:30Breakfast9:30- 10:45Teacher Directed/Classroom Exploration10:45-11:00Clean up/Stories & Songs11:00-12:00Outdoor Adventures/Music Movement12:00-12:30Lunch12:30-2:30Nap/Rest2:30-3:30Wake Up/ Independent Play3:30-4:00Snack4:00-5:00Outdoor Adventures/Music Movement5:00-6:00Stories/Games/Songs6:00-6:30 Late Snack/Close4Meals and Snacks ServedAll meals and snacks are prepared at the center by a qualified staff that will follow the safe preparation, cooking, and serving guidelines in the current edition of the food worker’s manualprepared by the state department of health.By preparing all meals and snacks at our center we are ensuringthat we know the ingredients in every meal and snack served in case there are children with allergies. Therefore we do not allow food to be brought from home.We will make accommodations and substitutes for children with Food allergies.On special occasions such as birthdays, we will allow a treat that isstore bought and has the ingredients clearly labeled. Typical Meal Schedule9:00-9:30Breakfast 11:30-12:30 Lunch 3:00-4:00 Snack 5:30-6:00 Late SnackMenu Example:Breakfast:Whole Grain Toast w/butter Sliced Oranges Milk Lunch:Chicken & Rice CasseroleBroccoliPineapple Milk Snack:Tortillas w/ cheeseOrange Juice5Parking: Parking is provided in the parking lot that we share with the Stanwood mall center. We have 2 designated parking spaces out front for drop-off and pick-up. We ask that you be courteous to our other families and not block any parking spaces in addition to being as quick as possible when picking up or dropping off. For safety purposes please do not let your child run out into the parking lot unsupervised.Things to leave at home:* Toys – to be sure nothing is lost and we maintain a safe environment* Food – to make sure we are keeping an allergy free environmentInitial and Ongoing Screenings Based on the knowledge that each child grows and develops differently we will conduct an initial screening upon enrollment and share with you this data within 3 months. Ongoing screenings will be conducted every 6 months for children under 30 months and every year after that until child enters school or more often if necessary. These findings will be made available to parents.Special NeedsWe will make every effort to accommodate children with special needs. The parents and program will devise a plan that is reasonable to both parties and in writing. Parent ParticipationWe have an open door policy where parents are welcome at any time. Parent volunteers are always welcome for special events. 6Arrival/Signing In/Out DailyDrop Off times are from 6:00am-10:30am. It is important for your child to arrive with enough time to play and transition into lunch and rest. Exceptions may be made with Director approval only. It is a licensing requirement that parents/guardians sign in with a full signature and time when dropping off child and sign out with full signature and time when picking up. Sign In/Out computer is located in the lobby. When dropping off or picking up please make sure you are communicating with the teacher during this time your intent to leave or to take your child for the day. In addition, pick up or drop off’s should not last more than 15 minutes. If it is any more time than that on a regular basis then we would need a volunteer packet to be filled out by the parent.Religious or Cultural ActivitiesWe do not teach or practice any religious activities but recognize and are sensitive to others religious beliefs. We may celebrate cultural events and/or non-religious holidays. If you have a specific cultural tradition, activity, or celebration you would like to share with us and have us incorporate this into your child’s classroom please communicate this with the classroom teacher or director.Transportation and Field TripsAt this time we will have walking fieldtrips to the local library and parks. 24 hours notice will be given and a permission form will need to be signed 7Weather Related ClosuresWe will make every effort to stay open in severe weather however if forced to close please look to our facebook page for closure notifications.Mandated Reporting of Child Abuse and NeglectWe will immediately report any suspected instances of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, child neglect, or child exploitation. This will be reported to children’s administration central intake. In addition, if there is immediate danger to a child we will also make a report to local law enforcement. Behavior Management and GuidanceWe will guide children based on their individual needs and development. We will promote children’s developmentally appropriate social behavior, self-control, and respect for the rights of others.We will guide children based on what is fair, reasonable, consistent, and related to the child’s behavior.We will not use any form of corporal punishment including biting, jerking, shaking, spanking, slapping, hitting, striking, kicking, pinching, flicking or any other means of inflicting physical pain or causing bodily harm to the child.We will not use any form of verbal abuse such as yelling, shouting, name calling, shaming, making derogatory remarks about a child or the child’s family, or use language that threatens, humiliates or frightens a child.We will not withhold food or liquids as punishment.8We will not use physical restrain methods.A staff may use limited physical restraint only in an emergency when they believe the child will injure another person or themselves. They must complete an incident report that is kept in the child’s file and given to the parent.Our behavior management and guidance is a positive approach based on making learning opportunities, having natural consequences, and beginning each day fresh.Dismissal From CenterEvery effort will be made to work with children and families on an individual basis. Children may be dismissed from the center with no notice if child continuously harms other children or staff after every effort has been made with child and family to correct the situation. In addition open and positive communication is essential when children are having difficulties. The staff and parents must work together and if at any time there is not respectful communication there may be need for dismissal from the center.Medication ManagementWe will not administer medications unless it is for special needs. A special needs plan and a medication authorization form. Please see Health Care Plan for an in depth overview of our Medication Management Policy. This does not include diaper creams, ointment, or powder to reduce risk of diaper rash.Severe Allergies or Other Health Care NeedsChildren with severe food or other allergies or other serious health care needs will need an Individual Plan of Action in addition to Medication Authorization Form if medication is needed.9Use of Baby WipesWe may use Kirkland brand baby wipes to clean your child’s hands or face. Please let us know if there are any allergies or sensitivities regarding the use of these.Ill Child ExclusionsChickenpoxUntil all blisters are crusted over (usually 5 to 6 days after the rash stared)Common ColdNo exclusion if child feels well enough to participate in activitiesCytomegalovirusNo exclusion necessaryDiarrheaMay return after diarrhea has stopped for at least 24 hoursEar InfectionNo exclusion if child feels well enough to participate in activitiesFeverIf temperature is over 100F or higher under the arm and is accompanied with sore throat, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, pain irritability, confusion, or other symptomsFifth DiseaseNo exclusion if child feels well enough to participate in activitiesHand, Foot, & Mouth DiseaseNo exclusion necessary if child feels well enough to participate in activitiesHead LiceUntil treatment is started and no nits are presentInfectious MononucleosisNo exclusion necessary if child feels well enough to participate in activitiesPinkeye (Bacterial)Until 24 hours after antibiotic treatment is startedPinkeye (Viral)Until no drainage is presentPinworms24 hours after treatment is startedRashesUntil determined the rash is not a symptom of an infectious diseaseRingworm24 hours after treatment is started. Ringworm must be coveredRoseolaNo exclusion necessary if child feels well enough to participate in activitiesRotavirus24 hours after diarrhea stopsScabies24 hours after treatment has started10Sore ThroatUntil determined the sore throat is not a symptom of an infectious diseaseStrep Throat24 hours after antibiotic treatment has started and fever is goneVomiting24 hours after vomiting has stopped and determined is not a symptom of an infectious diseaseYeast InfectionsUntil treatment has started Medical EmergenciesIn the event of a medical emergency, staff will follow their First Aid/CPR training, call 911, and make every reasonable effort to contact the parent and/or guardian. In the event a child needs to be transported by ambulance, a staff person will ride with them in the ambulance and stay with them until a parent or guardian arrives. An incident/injury report will be filled out and given to parents and licensor contacted.Minor InjuriesMinor bumps and bruises will be communicated to the parent by an Ouch or Injury Report on the day the injury happened. A copy will be kept in the child’s file.Disaster PreparednessFire Drills: will be held monthlyDisaster Drills: will be held quarterlyIn the event of an emergency evacuation, we will locate to the Xtapa parking lot on 271st street. In the event of a fire we will locate to the sidewalk in front of QFC.Fire/Police/Ambulance: 911Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222Animal Control: 425-388-3440C.P.S: 1-866-829-2153C.P.S After Hours: 1-800-562-5624DEL Licensor: Wendy Lin 425-339-1835Out Of Area Contact: Gin 360-770-1765Copies of the complete disaster plan are kept in the office and each classroom. 11Infant & Toddler CareWe accept infants in to care at 4 weeks of age.Feeding: Infants will be fed on demand. Infants that are 4 months and under will be only fed breast milk/formula, unless we have a written order from the child’s health care provider to do otherwise. Infants that are 4-6 month range that are able to sit with support and hold their own heads up showing readiness to eat will be fed formula/breast milk, along with introduction of iron fortified baby cereal and plain pureed fruits and veggies with parent consultation and consent. Once an infant is sitting without support and beginning to chew and grasp on to things (6-8mo), we will continue with formula/breast milk. In addition will add small amounts of juice or water in a cup and allow semisolid foods that they can self feed with such as cottage cheese, mashed soft veggies, and fruits.When an infant is showing they can pick up foods and put them in to their mouths and self feed (8-10mo), We will continue with formula/breast milk. In addition we will introduce small amounts of finger foods such as small pieces of cheese, chicken, crackers, noodles, and formula or juices/water in a cup.When an infant has reached the 10-12month stage and is feeding self and swallowing on their own we will continue with formula/breast milk. In addition we will offer a variety of whole grain small sized cooks foods such as cereals, breads, crackers, and tortillas. We will also offer cooked soft meats, beans, egg yolks, and soft casseroles.When an infant is eating a variety of foods without showing any signs of an allergic reaction we will serve fruit pieces, cooked veggies, yogurt, cheese slices, and small amounts of formula, water/juices in the cup during feedings. Parent’s and/or Center supply infant formula until 12 months of age, at 12 months of age we provide the recommended whole milk. Parent’s and/or Center also supply baby food until the child is able to eat the foods offered on our menu.Infants will not be introduced to foods by early bloomers child care, parents will do first introductions to foods at home.Bottles:Parents will provide bottles that are labeled with the child’s full name. Bottles will be Warmed on demand . Once a bottle is made, any remaining contents will be discarded 1 hour after being made. Formula is provided by parent and/or Center and will be stored in refrigerator clearly labeled with the child’s name, and date. Breast milk must be clearly labeled with the child’s name and the date that it was brought in to the center. 12Frozen breast milk will be stored in the freezer and thawed in the refrigerator, or under/in warm water. Frozen breast milk can only be stored at the center for 2 weeks (14 days) from the day it was brought in. Bottles and nipples will be cleaned and sanitized by running through the dishwasher between each use. Infants will be held during bottle feedings to prevent choking and teeth decay. Juice will only be offered in a cup, water may be offered in a cup or bottle. Infants that are eating solids will be placed in a high chair, or chair that is proportionate to them that sits up to a proportionate table.Diapering:Diapers will be changed/checked every 2 hours, or as needed. Safety and health guidelines are followed for diaper changing. See our healthcare plan for further procedures about diaper changing.Toileting:When the child is starting to show signs of readiness to use the toilet we will communicate with the parent’s to come up with a positive encouragement to use the toilet.Sleeping:Children 29 months of age and under will be allowed to follow their own sleep schedule. Alternative quiet activities will be provided for the child who is not napping. Sleeping schedules are discouraged. However, parents may request that their infant be woken up if they have been sleeping for more than 3 hours. This may be necessary to assist with the infant’s 24 hour sleep/wake cycle. A crib or pack n’ play playpen will be furnished for napping for infants and a nap cot will be provided for toddlers. Infants will be placed on their backs when going to sleep to reduce to risk of SIDS, unless there is a written note on file from both the parents and child’s health care provider requesting another position. Once an infant is able to roll to their stomach they may do so without being rotated back to their backs. Cribs will not contain bumper pads, pillows, soft toys, fleece, cushions, or any blankets. Since infant seats and car seats or swings make it harder for them to breathe fully, they will not be used for sleeping purposes. Only cribs or playpens will be used for sleeping infants, if they fall asleep in one of the above stated areas they will immediately be gently transferred to their crib. Light levels will be kept at a high enough level that children may be easily observed while sleeping. 13What you will need to bring: Infants: At minimum a 2- day supply of diapers, enough pre-made bottles to last them for 1 day of feeds., extra clothing, pacifier if usedToddlers: At minimum a 2-day supply of diapers, 2 changes of clothing, fitted crib sheet and blanket for napping. Sheet and blanket must be taken home to wash on you “Friday” or as needed.TransitionsTransitioning into our programWe encourage the parent(s) and child(ren) to visit and become comfortable with our program, the classroom, and teachers. In addition please read over all policies and procedures to ensure you are aware of how our program operates.Transitioning out of our programIf it becomes necessary to leave our program please give at least 2 weeks written notice. Children in the classroom may need time to say goodbye and we may need time to gather necessary materials your child could be working on or we have collected. There is also 2 weeks written notice required for payment of services.Transitioning to KindergartenEarly Bloomers Child Care will provide families with children entering kindergarten with materials and information regarding the school district Early Bloomers resides in. In addition we will share with you assessments we have gathered during your child’s stay here in regards to Kindergarten readiness. This may include a checklist, bodies of work, pictures, and assessment documentation.14Transitioning to the next classroomEach of our classrooms are set up to meet the developmental needs of the age group in that classroom. When the time comes for your child to transition from one classroom to the next classroom we will communicate a plan with you . Licensing does have age requirements for each classroom that we must follow. If there is a concern with your child not being developmentally ready for the next classroom, we can further discuss their needs when it is time to transition.Daily ReportsWe use an IPad to document meals and/or bottles, diapering for infants and toddlers, daily activities, injury reports, pictures, and any other necessary notes. These will be sent in text message to your phone or to your email depending on your preference.WelcomeWelcome to Early Bloomer’s Child Care! We are excited for you to be a part of our family. We have an open door and encourage families to come to us for any questions or concerns.We thank you for choosing Early Bloomer’s Child Care!15 Table of contentsPhilosophy and curriculum…………………..1.2Enrollment/tuition…………………….………….3,4Schedule……………………………….………………..4,5Meals……………………………………………..………..6Parking……………………………………………………..6Items to leave at home………………………..6Screenings………………………………………………7Special needs………………………………………….7Parent participation………………………………7Sign in/out………………………………………………8Religious/cultural activities………………..8Transportation……………………………………….8Child abuse / behavior management….8Medication management………………………9,10Disaster plan…………………………………….……11Infant/toddler care…………………………….12,13Transitions/Welcome…………………..……..15,15Daily Reports…………………………………………15 ................
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