Kathy's Kids Clubhouse - Home



171450000Kathy Shilling Kathy's Kids Clubhouse 6417 Saddleback Drive Denton, Texas 76210Parent Handbook of Policies Welcome The purpose of this Parent Handbook of Policies is to outline the policies and procedures under which I operate as a Director Licensed home child care provider. Registration Checklist Children may be enrolled from birth and up, regardless of race, creed, or religious beliefs. The following forms are required by Texas DFPS and Kathy Shilling that need to be read, completed and/or signed prior to enrollment:Parent Handbook of Policies (read/sign/date. I will give you copy)Admission Information (complete/sign/date)Statement of Health (Physician provided)Immunization Record (Physician provided or I can copy)Child Assessment Form(complete/sign/date)Contract (sign/date) Permission to Photograph (read/complete/sign/date)Building for the Future(read)Nutri-care Inc. Enrollment Form (complete/sign/date at enrollment)CACFP Infant Feeding Preference (only for 12mths & younger, complete/sign/date at enrollment) Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan (if needed)Liability Waiver (read/sign/date)Infant Safe Sleep (read/sign/&date)Infant Feeding InstructionDefinitions * Kathy's Kids Clubhouse?is owned, operated and Director Licensed though Texas DFPS under Kathy Shilling?* Nutri-Care Inc. is?Kathy Shilling's sponsor in the Child & Adult Food Program(CACFP)?*? Infant/Young Toddler: younger than 18 months ?* Older Toddler/schooler: 19 months – +5 years?* Full Time Childcare Day or Night: Contracted care no more than 48 hours per week (hours/days can be?discussed and based upon contracted hours/days)???????????????????????(dependent on your?shift hours, could adhere to additional hourly rate)?* Drop-In Day/ Hourly Care/ Overnight Care: Non-contracted available Monday through Sunday, if space is available.?* Overnight Care: Available Midnight-9am?in addition to date night drop-in care fees.???????? ***Children will not be released if alcohol has been consumed, fees apply***???* Pricing is per child State Licensing Requirements Kathy Shilling is Director Licensed with Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and complies with all applicable licensing regulations and standards. These standards relate to our home, household members, animals, health, safety procedures, nutrition, care giver to child ratios, and record keeping. We believe that these standards are in the best interest of the children. Our home is subject to inspection by state, CACFP and licensing officials. The latest licensing inspection report will be posted on the wall located above the cubbies for your viewing at any time or you may go to the states website to view. Minimum standards and my latest inspection can be found on line at tdprs.state.tx.us. There is also a filed copy of Minimum Standards at the daycare you can review any time. You may also contact the local licensing office at 940-230-3484 or 800-582-6036 or even file a complaint by phone or website listed above for Abuse/Neglect.Occupancy and Open-Door Policy My home is licensed for up to 12 children, and I am available to provide care for children 6 weeks and older. I have an open-door policy for all parents. This means you can stop by during business hours unannounced. Of course, for safety purposes, my door will be locked. Parents are also free to call and check on their child at any time. Please leave a message if I didn’t answer, and I will return your call in a timely manner. Most parents text me with questions and that to works well. This is our home as well as business, so please be respectful of our family and home by adhering to the policies and procedures outlined in the parent handbook. We realize this is a lot of information to absorb. Because of this, please keep your Parent Handbook of Policies accessible so you can periodically review our policies and procedures as necessary. I reserve the right to amend any portion of the Parent Handbook of Policies & Contract, Contract and Enrollment Application at any time. When I do make a change to the contract you will be given a copy. A new contract will be signed in August yearly.Daycare Hours The daycare is Licensed to be open 24/7 but my normal operating hours are Monday- Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm. All other hours and days are based on availability. I except full time contracted students, drop-in care and date night/overnight care if ratio allows, with exception of the holidays listed below. Your hours are based upon your contracted days and hours only. You will be responsible for fees outside of your contracted hours paid no later than with your next weekly tuition payment. Do not arrive before your contracted time or after your contracted time without prior approval. Tuition Fees Newborn ~ 18mths: $220 per week 19mths ~ +5 years old: $180 per week * Full time contracted tuition fees includes everything but diapers, pacifier and sleeping zip up sleeper/pj’s * Other Fees Drop-In Day rate:?$50 a day (paid at arrival) * Payment is due for all reserved days even if child does not attend. That day is held for your child and payment is due. Hourly Care: $10.00 per hr for first child and $5 per each additional child Date Night Overnight Care:?$20.00 additional for first child and $10 per each additional child (Midnight-9am) * Additional hours acceptable with feeTuition Covers ~ Meals* (Breakfast & Lunch. Super if contracted for supper*) ~ Afternoon snack* ~ Drinks* ~ Formula* ~ Curriculum and craft supplies for child when they are ready (daycare hours only) ~ Pack N Play, mat or cot & blanket (no blanket for infants) ~ Feeding supplies, cups and bottles ~ Wipes ~ Use of lights, water, AC/ heater, cleaning supplies, updating toys, replacing toys, my trainings, taxes, social security and the list goes on (*See special diet section)Payment Policy Contracted student payments are due every Friday before 6pm. First payment is due at enrollment and then every Friday to hold your child’s spot for the following week. If payment is received after Friday there will be a $20 per day late fee charged. It is not the responsibility of the provider to remind the parents when payment is due. If tuition and fees are not received when due, it will be caused for suspension of services until full payment is made. Should daycare be closed for a holiday on your pay date all payments must be received the day before by 6:00pm. If your child is absent on your pay-date, you are still required to make your payment. Late fees will include Saturday and Sunday. Your specific hours, dates and rates are outlined on your Childcare contract. I accept cash, as well as, personal checks. Due to limited spaces available, weekly payments are based on using or holding your slot, not on the child’s attendance. No refunds are given for late arrivals / early departures, parental vacations or exclusion due to illness. The payment made on Friday is to hold your child's spot for the following week. Failure to pay the past due amount will result in legal action being taken against you. This includes your normal weekly rate, overtime, late fees and legal fees. If your child is contracted full time or part-time your still responsible for paying for holidays, sick/personal days, child absences from: sickness, being late, being picked up early or vacations. Because I have reserved a space in my Childcare for your child, there are NO REFUNDS in tuition or fees for absences due to a child’s illness, vacation, or any other reason. Fees are required regardless of whether your child attends or not. I will not substitute for hours or days missed. *It must be understood that to hold your child's space, payment must be paid whether your child attends or not. Payment is based on contract, not attendance. ** Drop-In care & Date/Over Night care: CASH ONLY upon arrival. Pre-reserved drop-in days, if the child cannot attend, payment is still due. Reserved days/times are for your child and cannot be filled.**The daycare fee is subject to change. I will give you two weeks' notice of any changes and during that time you may except the changes or give your notice** Late Pickup Policy Late fees are not charged because I understand unavoidable circumstances occur. However, they will be implemented at any point if there is excessive tardiness. If this happens and your child is picked up after your contracted scheduled pick up, there will be a late charge assessed of $1.00 for everyone minute. Please be courteous and arrive on time. After hours is time with our family.Deposit A nonrefundable deposit equal to one week of childcare cost is due at time of enrollment to secure your child’s spot for their first week of enrollment. However, do not give me the deposit until you have signed the Parent Handbook of Policies & Contract, Enrollment form and thoroughly reading. Your child's spot is not secured until I have received both the deposit and the signed Parent Handbook of Policies, Contract, Admission information. The deposit will be credited towards the first week of your child's enrollment. * If you choose to not enroll your child none of the deposit is refunded. Maternity & Holding Position If a position is or will be available, you have the option of paying a deposit to hold this position for you. I cannot hold this position longer than 6 weeks. If you wish to hold a position, you will need to pay 50% of the weekly rate each Friday to hold the position. I cannot hold a position for free. At the end of this 6-week period, you will be required to pay 100% of the weekly fee to continue a hold on that position or you forfeit the position and lost all monies paid until that date. This is a nonrefundable payment to secure a spot for your child until enrollment. Non- Sufficient Checks A check is always an acceptable form of payment until you present me with a bad check. You are responsible for all charges I may incur from my bank because of your bad check. You will also be charged a fee of $30 for your NSF check and childcare late fee per day. Childcare will be halted until you reimburse me the amount of the check, all expenses that have incurred and late fees. Reimbursement will be in cash only. Future payments will be required to be made in cash. In the event you do not pay for this NSF check, you can expect to be taken to small claims court to settle the dispute. Filing Taxes I keep track of all payments made towards your child’s tuition to my daycare. At the end of the year you will receive an itemized statement with all payments made, my signature and my Tax ID number to turn in with your tax’s. Policy & Contracts These policy’s runs August to August of each year. Every year the policy’s will be looked over for changes and possible increase of rates.Holidays Contracted paid holidays consist of these days: * New Year's Day * Good Friday * Memorial Day * July 4th * August 19th(birthday) * Labor Day * Halloween(close @ 4pm) *Thanksgiving Day * Day after Thanksgiving * Christmas Eve * Christmas Day * New Year’s EVE Note: If the holiday falls on a Saturday daycare will be closed the Friday before. If the holiday falls on a Sunday daycare will be closed the Monday after. ** I reserve the right to be open on holidays for additional fees** Sick/Personal Days As strong as my immune system has become over the years, unfortunately I still get sick from time to time. Because of this I allot eight sick/personal days per year. These days are also used for continuing education classes (CPR, Pediatric First Aid, etc.) to keep my childcare license in good standing. Of course, I will give you as much of a notice as possible.Vacations If I should ever take a vacation, days will be posted at least one month in advance.Regular payment rates apply for your vacations, weeks with holidays, child illnesses and provider's sick/personal days. Note: Parents are responsible for finding back-up care for their children during provider vacations, holidays, and sick/personal days resulting in the daycare closing. Discontinuation of Services Notice If you will no longer be needing my childcare services, two weeks advance notice needs to be given to me. Whenever possible even more notice is better. This helps me tremendously. Reason being, unlike childcare centers I can only take up to 12 children. So, when I am full, I’m forced to say NO to all incoming requests for childcare. If a notice of discontinuation of needed services is given, then it is possible for me to make future arrangements with new family’s inquiring about daycare for their child. Also, will allow me to leave a positive note for your future provider in our area.Termination Policy The first two weeks will be regarded as a trial period, in which case either party may terminate the contract without notice. After the first two weeks of enrollment, a two-week written notice from parent or provider is required to terminate the contract, except for gross misconduct on part of the provider, parent, or child. This is grounds for immediate discontinuation of service. In cases of non-payment, legal action may be taken, and the parents will pay all legal fees incurred. If parent terminates this contract without notice, they will be billed for the two weeks even if child is not in care. I reserve the right to terminate for the following reasons (but not limited to): *Lack of compliance with handbook rules and regulations *Lack of compliance with the enrollment agreement.*Lack of parental cooperation*Failure to complete required forms*False information given by the parent either verbally or in writing.*Consistent late/early arrivals*Failure to pay or not paying on time*My inability to meet the needs of your child*Disrespect to my family and I as well as our home*Physical or verbal abuse of any person or propertyArrival, Departure & Release of Children Children are to arrive clean and ready for the day. It is normal for some children to have difficulty separating from parents. Please make your drop off brief, the longer you prolong the departure, the harder it gets. A smile, cheerful good-by kiss, and a reassuring word that you will be back are all that is needed. Children are always quick to get involved in play or activities as soon as parents are gone. Please be brief at pick up times as well. This is a time of testing, when two different authority figures are present (parent and provider). All children will test to see if the rules still apply. Please be in control of your child during these times. Because of my licensing rule… “All children under the age of school-age must be within sight and or sound of the provider and or parent / guardian. If we are inside, please do not allow your child to go out the door without you. If we are outside, please do not allow your child to go out of the gate without you. I also ask that your child stays by you while walking to the car. Please do not send food i.e. (half eaten breakfasts, breakfast bars, candy, etc.) or gum with the children. No one other than the parent or person designated by you will be allowed to pick up your child without advanced written, texted or verbal permission indicating the person's name and relationship to your child. If there is a court order keeping one parent away from the child, we must have a copy of that order in our file to that effect. Otherwise, we cannot prevent the non-custodial parent from picking up the child. Also, we would like a four-digit code kept in child's folder. The code will only be shared with whom is to pick up the child. Proper identification will also be required, a picture of that ID/license will be taken to place in the child’s folder. Sign-In Sheets There is a sign in sheet on the entry table. Please sign your child in and out each day. If you have more than one child attending, please sign in one child per line to help with accountability of children in care.Current Information Please remember to notify me of any changes to contact numbers, emergency contact numbers and physician information as this is how I will notify you and others in case of any emergency or illness with your child. Please be aware the 1st Monday of each month is when I will take the opportunity to inquire of any updated information. But this will not take the responsibility of you to notify me of any changes.Changes in Your Child's Schedule If you need to bring your child into Childcare later than your scheduled time or if you will be picking him /her up between 11:30 and 3:00, please let me know. While I want to encourage you to visit any time during the day, I need to know if children will be arriving or leaving during mealtime, naptime, or activity time. I have found that if parents schedule well baby/child doctor visits early in the morning or later in the afternoon, the children's routine is not disrupted as much as those mid-day appointments. Tell me as soon as you know there will be a change in your schedule, so we can find the best way to accommodate that change. Please write down doctor appointments and other planned absences for me. For unplanned absences, please call the night before or at least 1/2-hour before you child's scheduled arrival time. Animals We have dogs and cats in our home. They all receive yearly vaccinations and have signed veterinary documents that they are free of diseases and safe to be around children. They've been raised with the daycare so they are all very sweet with the children. Although they are very sweet & trusted, I keep the dogs in another area of the home during the day while the kids are here. The cats of course are a little harder to keep out but stay outside of the gate for most of the daycare hours. The outdoor daycare play area is separated from the dog area and the children do not have contact with their waste. Allergies If your child has an allergy to food, insects and etc. you must fill out a Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan and take to your doctor to fill out, sign and date. If your child will need an Epinephrine injection or medication in case of allergic reactions, parent is responsible for purchase of medication for childcare or in bringing one daily to and from childcare. A copy of your child’s plan will be placed in my files and in my van. The original will be privately placed on the wall, under an allergy alert sheet, for volunteers to see and/or household members in case of an emergency.Supplies Needed at Daycare Parents are responsible for supplying the following items: Infants/toddlers: diapers/pull-ups, diaper creams, weather appropriate clothes and a change of clothes, jacket, shoes that lace-up or Velcro and/or stay on feet (no flip-flops please), pacifier (if needed), and Sleeper (for infants). Older children: shoes, jacket, change of clothes. There is a good possibility your child will get dirty throughout the day because of food, paint, markers, dirt, bubbles, etc. So please dress your child accordingly for play. We are not responsible for replacing stained or soiled clothing. Furthermore, we suggest that you write your child's name on the tags of their clothing (especially socks and underwear) in order to prevent any clothing mix-ups.Note: Please periodically check your child's locker/cubby to make sure they still have all of their necessary items needed at daycare. Furthermore, as the weather changes throughout the year, so do your child's items needed at daycare. We greatly appreciate your adherence to this subject, as it helps ours and the children's day run more smoothly to have all of his or her necessary belongings with them at daycare. This way we can care for your child in the best possible way. Health Check A visual or physical assessment upon arrival will be done on your child/children. This is to identify potential concerns about your child's health, including signs or symptoms of illness and injury, in response to changes in the child's behavior since the last date of attendance. If need be it will me noted along with any changes during the day on our monthly log sheet.Illness While in Care For the health and safety of your child and all the children in care, please do not bring your child to daycare sick. In which case, I in turn may become sick making it difficult to care for the children at the high standards that I have set. State will only allow me to care for children with allergy like symptoms that are otherwise feeling and acting well. Allergy like symptoms are clear runny nose, slight cough, no fever and able to participate in our class activities. If you are not sure if your child should be brought to daycare, then please call and check with us. If a child becomes ill during daycare hours: the child will be moved away from the other children, the parents will be contacted to pick up their child and I will continue caring for the sick child and healthy children until parent arrives. Making sure I wash my hands between the two groups. In addition, parents need to pick up their sick child within one hour of being notified. If parents are not available, the emergency contact person will be notified.Note: Once the child is removed from daycare due to illness, they may not return to daycare until symptoms requiring removal are no longer present. The child must be fever free without the help of medication for 24 hours. The child must also be void of any contagious disease, unless accompanied by a doctor's note stating the illness in question is not contagious, and the child is otherwise feeling well enough to participate in our daily schedule. Guidelines for Children Requiring Exclusion from Daycare A child with any of the following illnesses must be completely free of any symptoms before returning to daycare. If the child is taking antibiotics for an illness, the child may return to daycare after the initial 24 hours of beginning antibiotics as long as he or she has no fever (under 100F under the arm), no longer contagious, and is otherwise feeling well enough to participate in our daily schedule. Signs of illness include the following; unusual lethargy, irritability, persistent crying for no reason, runny nose (more than clear), cough (more than slight), difficulty breathing, diarrhea, vomiting, mouth sores, rashes (note from doctor stating non-contagious is ok), pink eye, chicken pox, mumps, measles, roseola, hepatitis A, impetigo, lice, ringworm, scabies, strep throat, scarlet fever, tuberculosis, shingles, and any other contagious disease or rash. Any child with a fever of 101 degrees or above orally (in the mouth), 100-degree axillary (under the arm) tympanic(ear), may not attend daycare. State law requires that we notify parents of children who have been exposed to certain contagious diseases. Please notify us if your child becomes infected, so a note can be posted. Medication I do not give medications to the children. If your child needs to be medicated in order to get through the day and be able to comfortably participate in our classroom activities, then it is quite possible he or she may be too sick to attend daycare. We will however give certain doctor prescribed medications to the children, of course given that they are no longer contagious, and only if the medication consent form has been signed. Examples of these would be; antibiotics for ear infections etc. and Tylenol for teething or pain associated with bumps or bruises (not to bring down a fever). If you're not sure if we will administer a certain medication or not, please feel free to ask Bug Spray and Sunscreen Bug spray and sunscreen will not be applied unless it is supplied by the parent or guardian and in a spray on. I also will require a handwritten note for permission to apply and when to apply the sprays.First Aid, Medical and Dental Emergency Procedures Emergency information is kept on file at the daycare and in my vehicle in case of emergencies. In case of illness or injury parents will be notified by phone at the telephone number that is on file with me. For children who sustain a minor injury that does not require medical attention, I will take the following steps: 1. First Aid will be administered, as necessary; 2. The parents will be contacted for more serious injuries, as necessary; 3. An injury report will be completed, with one copy to you and one copy placed in your child’s file. For children who sustain a minor injury that may require medical attention, I will take the following steps: 1. First aid will be administered, as necessary 2. The parents or authorized person will be contacted 3. In the event that a parent or authorized person cannot be reached; a. The child’s physician will be consulted for assistance; b. 911 will be activated, if necessary; 4. An injury report will be completed, with one copy to you and one placed in your child’s file and called in to Texas Department of Family Services. For Children requiring prompt medical attention, I will follow the following steps’ 1. CPR and/or First Aid will be administered, as necessary; 2. 911 will be activated if the injury is serious or life threatening 3. The parents or authorized person will be contacted 4. If the parents or authorized person cannot be reached, the physician listed on the child’s emergency information will be contacted. 5. An injury report is completed, and a copy is given to the parents as well as a call into the Department of Family and Protective Services. It is very important and your responsibility as the parent/guardian to update me with all emergency contact information and is correct. Please inform us immediately of any changes to keep your information current. Parents are responsible for all costs involved in emergency medical treatment, including emergency transportation if required. Immunizations/ Exemptions Each child in care must have current and up to date immunizations and then continue to meet applicable immunization requirements specified by Texas Department of State Health Services. This requirement applies to all children in care from birth through 14 years. With each immunization, I will need a current copy for my records. This includes any immunization exemptions or exceptions. All immunizations required for the child's age must be completed by the date of admission, unless: (1) The child is exempt or excepted from an immunization, and I verify the exemption or exception by the date of admission; or (2) The child is homeless or a child in foster care and is provisionally admitted for up to 30 days if evidence of immunization is not available. Then the child needs to seek an appropriate health-care professional to obtain the required immunizations. Current immunization requirements can be found at Acceptable documentation includes: (1) A signed statement from the child's parent that the child's immunization record is current and on file at the pre-kindergarten or school that the child attends. The statement must be dated and include the name, address, and telephone number of the pre-kindergarten or school listed in the statement. (2) An official immunization record generated from a state or local health authority, including a record from another state. Examples include a record from the Texas Immunization Registry, a copy of the current immunization record that is on file at the pre-kindergarten or school that the child attends, or the health passport for a child in the conservatorship of DFPS. The record must include: (A) The child's name and date of birth; (B) The type of vaccine and number of doses; and (C) The month, day, and year the child received each vaccination; or (3) An official immunization record or photocopy. An example includes a record from a doctor's office or pharmacy. The record must include: (A) The child's name and date of birth; (B) The type of vaccine and number of doses; (C) The month, day, and year the child received each vaccination; (D) The signature (including a rubber stamp or electronic signature) of the health-care professional who administered the vaccine, or another health-care professional's documentation of the immunization as long as the name of the health-care professional that administered the vaccine is documented; and (E) Clinic contact information, if the immunization record is generated from an electronic health record system. Exemptions or exceptions: (A) A child may be exempt from immunization requirements for a medical reason or reason of conscience, including a religious belief. To claim an exemption, the person applying for the child's admission must meet criteria specified by the Department of State Health Services (B) For some diseases, a child who previously had a disease and is accordingly naturally immune from it may qualify for an exception to the immunization requirements for the disease. To claim this exception, the person applying for the child's admission must meet the criteria specified by the DSHS.Hearing & Vision Screening Children 4 years and older must have a vision and hearing screening. I must be given a copy of that screening from their doctor for my records.Diaper Policy It is the parent's responsibility to provide diapers, and diaper cream for your child. Diapers are checked frequently, and changed every three hours or more often if required. Diapers containing #2 are changed immediately. The diaper changing tables are cleaned and disinfected between each diaper change, and hand washing of childcare provider and child is performed after each diaper change. Toilet Training We are more than happy to encourage potty training as long as the child is ready (typically between 2 and 3 years old). The initial start needs to be done at home for at least two weeks with success before it can be effectively started at daycare. Parents will be required to supply pull-ups. Children will be allowed to come to daycare in cotton training pants/underwear after they have been accident free for at least two weeks in pull-ups. Communication between parents and the daycare provider is imperative for a successful transition from diapers to toilet. This includes wiping with toilet paper and handwashing. All in preparation for kindergarten where children are responsible for selfcare. Meals/Snacks Each day we provide three nutritious and well-balanced meals. All meals and snacks meet the requirements of Child and Adult Care Food Program. We provide morning breakfast from 7- 9:00am, lunch at 11-12:00pm and afternoon snack at 3:00pm. If your child arrives after a meal has already been served you are responsible for feeding your child. Evening meals are served with the family. Milk and water is always served with breakfast and lunch. Milk, water or juice is served with snack. Your child will also have a water cup accessible to them all day. We also provide formula and baby food for infants. The meals and snacks for each week constantly vary to ensure the children receive a well-balanced diet. The children are offered the food, but they will not be forced to eat. It is our goal to offer nutritious meals and snacks to the children in our care, as nutrition is a vital part of a child's health. Children need to eat well-balanced meals to meet his or her daily energy needs and to help them build a strong body and mind. We know that the good food habits a child develops will help them prevent cavities, iron deficiency anemia, and obesity, etc. - all common nutritional problems in young children. Special Diets If your child has any particular dietary needs resulting from being a vegetarian, or having allergies, religious beliefs, or non-religious beliefs, etc., then we must be informed, and when applicable given a doctor's note stating to the fact. At that time, it will be determined if your child can participate in the nutrition program. Certain meals and different types of foods can usually be substituted in place of, in order to still fulfill the dietary requirements of the nutrition program. However, if a solution can is not reached between parent, provider, and the child nutrition program with regards to their rules and regulations, then all of the child's meals and snacks will have to be provided by the parent. Toys We have well organized, separate, age appropriate toys for the toddler and infants. Infants will not be allowed to be around or play with small objects and toys. Please do not bring your child's toys to daycare except on designated sharing/show and tell days. As much as we try to encourage sharing, this seldom works when it is the child's own personal toy. It only causes problems between them and the other children. Never send your child to daycare with toy weapons or choking hazards. Behavior Management & Discipline I believe that the discipline of a child is achieved through patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. I also try and teach the children in my care manners, kindness and to be respectful to others. One of the ways in which I do this is by the example as provider set. I understand that actions and reactions speak much louder than words. The children are explained the rules of the daycare frequently, so they know what's expected of them. Once a child is old enough to understand the rules and disobeys them by, exhibiting inappropriate behavior (hitting, aggression, etc.), hurts others, or property, the following developmentally appropriate guidance techniques will be used. These techniques are as follows: * Positive Reinforcement: The child will be encouraged when he or she is demonstrating acceptable behavior. * Redirection: The child is redirected to another activity and given an opportunity to try again at another time. * Time-Out: The child is separated from the group for an age appropriate amount of time (one minute per one year of age). This technique is only used when a child repeatedly will not follow our directions or listen to our words, is exhibiting temper tantrum type behavior, or hurting one's self, others or equipment. When the child shows that he or she is ready to demonstrate acceptable behavior, they are encouraged to join the rest of the group to try again. * Last Resort: When a child's behavior is continually upsetting or dangerous to others, a conference will be called with the parents. If the problems cannot be resolved, arrangements will have to be made for the child to go elsewhere for care. Note: Sometimes if both a parent and a provider are both in the same area (examples would be during drop-off and pick-up times) a child may forget the rules or test the boundaries. Please help show your child that you respect us, the rules of our house, our property and animals by reminding them that the rules still apply when you are around. We will also remind them of the rules and correct them if needed. Cleanliness I take the well-being of your child very seriously and work hard to provide an environment that is as healthy as possible. Also committed to keeping our home and the children in it as clean as possible, to help minimize and/or prevent the spread of germs. Our home is kept clean and disinfected. We thoroughly clean surfaces that children come in close contact with using soap and water, and bleach/water, etc. The high chairs are cleaned between each use, and the diaper changing tables are cleaned and disinfected between each diaper change. Toys are cleaned and disinfected often. Hand washing is the single most effective practice in preventing the spread of germs. We wash our hands many times throughout the day, as well as the children's hands before and/or after engaging in a thorough list of activities. Transportation On occasion the children may be transported in the event of emergency, my family doctors visit, my family dentist visit, planned field trips and etc. Due to Texas Department of Family Services Minimum Standards, my husband and I do take additional training to transport children when needed. All children will be transported by my family vehicle in assigned and age appropriate car seats. The van is equipped with first aid kits, fire extinguisher, personal cell phone and laminated enrollment information for each child in case of emergency. Before leaving the house, parents are notified ahead of time, each child is given a name tag with their name on it.Transportation Policy When a child is enrolled, their admission form, immunization record and allergy form (if applies) is shrunk down, laminated, and placed on key ring in van. (Immunizations updated at each well check and so is emergency contacts if changes). A transportation tag is made and child is added to transportation list. DepartureChildren line up at door and accounted for by using the daily sign in sheet.Transportation tags are clipped on to children back of shirts.We exit the door and do another head count by using the sign in sheet.We load up into the van and after each child is accounted for and in van, I close the door.I start the van to run the AC or heat.I assist each child into their car seats, booster seats or assist in putting seat belts on.I then pull out my transportation list and check everyone in one at a time with time of departure and mileage.Once head count is taken, I exit the van and walk around to driver’s seat. Making sure there is no objects out of my rear view or neighboring children.We depart from the home to destination. A) If we exit the van, I exit my door with my transportation list and walk to side door and open. I release each child from their seats and they stand in each aisle. The baby car seats are taken out first and those children are checked off list and then each of the other children are marked off as they exit and stand next to me. Even if all children are marked off, I still do a clean sweep of looking in each aisle. Once each child is accounted for we walk to our destination where another head count will be taken and marked on our transportation sheet. During the trip, a constant head count is going. When it is time to depart we follow steps 1 and 4-9A going back to the home daycare and inside. B) If we are not exiting the van, then when we return to my home, we will follow step 9A to exit the van to come back into the daycare home.Liability By signing this policy and contract, I understand that Kathy and Terry Shilling/Kathy's Kids Clubhouse is not responsible/liable for any expenses due to any bodily, facial or other injuries that should occur to my child while he/she is under care. This includes her home/ premises or vehicle. I agree and understand that I will not sue for medical expenses/damages, dental expenses, ambulance or etc. due to any accident/incident occurred while my child is under the care of Kathy Shilling or Terry Shilling. TV Viewing During meal and or snack time we may put on educational DVDs or learning shows for just during that time. I may also use YouTube for educational purposes during preschool time. On occasion, usually only on Fridays, we may pick an appropriate children's video to watch. Children are never required to sit and watch TV, and TV is not offered in place of free play or learning activities.Reporting Child Abuse Everyone in my household is required by law to report any suspected incidents of possible child abuse or neglect. Your child can be questioned by child protective services at any time without your consent. You may also contact the local licensing office at 940-230-3484 or 800-582-6036 or even file a complaint by phone or website for Abuse/Neglect. Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-5400 Emergency Preparedness Kathy has written policies and procedures, that are practiced with the children, for dealing with emergencies and natural disasters. Our file box of parent information is in a rolling box with handles, by the door at all times for easy access and movement in case of an emergency. My van is also equipped with enrollment documents, strollers and harnesses in the event of an emergency. Parents will be notified of any emergencies as soon as children are safe by phone at the telephone number that is on file with me. Evacuation plans and proof of drills are posted in the daycare. During an evacuation, relocation, or sheltering/lock-down my first responsibility in any emergency is to move the children to a designated safe area or alternate shelter known to all household members, caregivers, parents, and volunteers. During all emergencies your child will be treated as my own and surrounded with positive words of encouragement until all children are reunified with parents. Evacuation: Fire/Gas- My mail box and further if need. If by foot: After each child is accounted for, by using the parent sign in sheet, the children birth-24 months will be carried or held by hand and led to the mailbox and the older children will walk. I then can assist children into strollers, harnesses, get my emergency contact documents from van and lead them away from area. Once we are all safe, 911 will be alerted, parents will be notified by my phone and so will Texas Department of Family Services if required. In the event of an evacuation by vehicle it will be done so if possible with Mrs. Kathy. The children will be taken using Mrs. Kathy's van. The van has parent information inside for emergency contacting. After each child is accounted for by using the parent sign in sheet, children birth-24 months will be carried or held by hand and led to the van and the older children will walk to the van as our normal transporting routine. The transportation guidelines will be in place: attaching name tags, face checking/counting children, placing each child in car seats, doing attendance with transportation sheet. Reverse steps when exiting.911 will be notified as soon as children are safe. Parents and Texas Department of Family Services will be notified by phone once we are at a safe location. Sheltering/Lock-down: Kitchen pantry (tornado box also located). Unless told otherwise from emergency personal After each child is accounted for by using the parent sign in sheet, I will grab my file box and assist children birth-24 months by carrying or held by hand and led to the pantry and the older children will walk.911 will be notified of my home daycare if need be, Parents will be notified by phone once we are safe of the situation. Texas Department of Family Services will be notified if need be. Relocation: Relocation is at our family friend home located at 2421 Sherwood Street-Denton. A notice by text with all information on the alternative site will be sent. Directions to their home are as follows: From my community entrance take a right on to Teasley, left onto Dallas Dr., slight right onto Bell Ave., straight onto Mingo, left onto N Ruddell, right onto Palmwood, left onto Glenwood, left onto Mistywood Ln., right onto Sherwood St. and destination is on the left. In the event of an evacuation relocation by vehicle it will be done so if possible with Mrs. Kathy. The children will be taken using Mrs. Kathy's van. The van has emergency contact information for each child. After each child is accounted for by using the parent sign in sheet, children birth-24 months will be carried or held by hand and led to the van and the older children will walk to the van as our normal transporting routine. The transportation guidelines will be in place: attaching name tags, face checking/counting children, placing each child in car seats, doing attendance with transportation sheet. Reverse steps when exiting.911 will be notified of evacuation. Once we are safe, parents will be notified by phone. If by foot: After each child is accounted for by using the parent sign in sheet, the children will be taken away from the home by: walking (holding hands or carried), wagon, strollers and/or child leash to assist in evacuation.911 will be called and once we are at a safe distance, parents will be notified by phone of status of location. Guidelines - What Is Asked of Children *All food and drinks must be kept in the kitchen/Daycare area. *No playing in the bathroom. *No coloring on anything but paper. * Help clean up. *Name calling and foul language or yelling is not allowed. *No hitting, kicking, pushing, pinching, biting, spitting or pulling hair. *No pulling or picking of bugs, plants, grass, trees, or flowers. *No picking-up, pulling, poking or squeezing of babies or animals *All kitchen and bathroom cupboards are off limits to daycare children. *Take turns and share. *Laugh, smile, play, and be happy.Learning and Fun For ages two through five, we offer a structured preschool curriculum. It's a professionally planned preschool curriculum designed to be used in childcare homes and centers. This on-going preschool program is offered Monday through Friday and is both entertaining and educational. Your child will enjoy activities ranging from art and craft projects to games, songs, finger plays, storytelling, creative dramatics, exercises, science, shapes, numbers, colors, alphabet, and much more through various monthly themes. Some of these projects will be taken home to share with you, and others will be group activities that you can ask about. We know that children learn best by "doing". Therefore, the activities the children participate in are developmentally appropriate, concrete, hands-on, and most of all fun, because we believe that learning is an exciting experience. For ages 24 months and younger we work on and with the following: throughout each day we practice on large and small motor skills by reaching, grasping, rolling, sitting, crawling, standing, walking, climbing, throwing, catching, kicking, cooing and talking; whichever developmental stage your child happens to be in at the time. Infants and toddlers learn through play by utilizing flash cards, books, numbers, shapes, colors, the alphabet, stacking blocks, puppets, age-appropriate toys, and much more. We encourage participation, but the child will not be forced to participate. Most importantly, our goal is to make learning for all ages fun, and non-intimidating. It is our hope that both you and your child will be as enthusiastic as we are about our program.Activities We know that children also learn through play; because of this, we do not under estimate its importance on a growing child's mind, body and spirit. Therefore, the children under our care receive lots of both free-play and structured-play throughout each day. During structured-play we primarily have only one group of toys or activity out at a time in order to allow the children to concentrate fully on each thing they do. Age appropriate activities will be scheduled with the flexibility allowed to respond to the needs of each individual child and their various ages. Activities that we and the children participate in, include, but are not limited to the following. Indoor activities include: books and story-time, blocks, circle-time, tumbling exercises, lacing, puzzles, music and dancing, dress up, play food, interactive stuffed animals, cars/trucks/planes, arts and crafts, flash cards, animals/dinosaurs, trains, musical instruments, balls, dolls, various learning toys, musical instruments, various games, song games, play dough, coloring, sing along story books, painting, board games, puppets, Simon-says, and singing. Outdoor activities include: climbing, sliding, jumping, running, balls, jump rope, racing, parachute, catch, bubbles, follow the leader, ride-on toys, wagons, tunnels, neighborhood walks, exploring nature/weather, soccer, and yes falling. As you know, children play hard and will get some bumps and bruises from time to time. We do our best to limit the amount of times this occurs, with constant supervision and watchful eyes. Due to the safe environment/toys we have surrounded ourselves with, we hope to prevent any injuries before they can happen. Weather permitting, we play outdoors every day. Daily Schedule This schedule is meant to give you an idea of your child's day. Actual times and activities may vary depending on time of the year, weather, age and temperament of the children. Age appropriate activities are scheduled with the flexibility allowed to respond to the needs of each individual child and their various ages (potty times, diaper changing). Contracted night care children will follow my families schedule. This is so they are comfortable in a home setting while learning and fun. Older Toddler/Preschooler (24 months and older) 7:30 - 8:30 drop-offs, welcome children, free-play and/or structured-play, trains, story-time, etc. 8:30 - 9:00 breakfast, clean-up/wash-up 9:00 - 9:30 circle-time, calendar, weather 9:30 - 10:30 Preschool, arts and crafts, story-time, various learning games 10:30 - 11:00 outside play-time 11:00 - 11:30 free-play and/or structured-play, interactive video (Little Einstein's, Blue's Clues,etc.), washing hands for lunch 11:30 - 12:30 lunch time, clean-up/wash-up, and get on mats 12:30 - 3:00 rest-time and/or quiet-time 3:00 - 3:30 afternoon snack, clean-up/wash-up 3:30 - 4:00 free-play and/or structured-play, puzzles, books, various learning toys, etc. 4:00 - 4:30 outside play (depending on season), coloring, play-dough, toys, story-time, etc. 4:30 - 5:30 Free play, pick-up Infant/Young Toddler (younger than 24 months)Throughout each day we practice on reaching, grasping, rolling, sitting, crawling, standing, walking, climbing, throwing, catching, kicking, cooing and talking; whichever developmental stage your child happens to be in at the time. For a younger child still taking three naps a day, a third nap can be incorporated into their late afternoon schedule. 7:30 - 8:30 drop-offs, welcome children, free play and/or structured-play, story-time, toys, etc. 8:30 - 9:00 breakfast, clean-up/wash-up 9:00 - 10:00 naptime (depending on age), flash cards, arts and crafts, story-time, stacking blocks 10:00 - 10:30 music, song and dance, games 10:30 - 11:00 outside play-time 11:00 - 11:30 free-play and/or structured-play, interactive video (Baby Einstein, or Blue's Clue's) 11:30 - 12:30 lunch time, clean-up/wash-up, brush teeth (when applicable), nestle into cribs 12:30 - 3:00 rest-time and/or quiet-time 3:00 - 3:30 afternoon snack, clean-up/wash-up 3:30 - 4:00 free-play and/or structured-play, puzzles, books, various learning toys, etc. 4:00 - 4:30 outside play (depending on season), puzzles, musical instruments, story-time, etc. 4:30 - 5:30 Free play, pick-up Infant (3 to 6 months)Miscellaneous *Understand that your child may be included in classroom evaluations by State Licensing officials, Head Start Program, Nutri-care (CACFP), and other parents observing their right to our open door policy.* Understand that your child may be included in pictures connected with our daycare program, unless otherwise specified by you the parent.* This facility does not currently carry liability insurance. Nap Time Infants sleep in provider provided Pack n Plays. I follow the Safe Sleep guidelines. ? Always put infants to sleep on their backs unless you provide an Infant Sleep Exception form 2710 signed by the infant's health care professional ?Place infants on a firm mattress, with a tight fitting sheet, in a crib that meets the CPSC federal requirements for full size cribs and for non-full size cribs. Or play yard (pack N play) used according to manufacturer’s instructions, firm mattress, snuggly fits sides designed for that play yard model number. Sheets fit snug, mattress waterproof, no loose hardware or installed Improper, sides always latched . ? For infants who are younger than 12 months of age, cribs should be bare except for a tight-fitting sheet and a mattress cover or protector. Items that should not be placed in a crib include: soft or loose bedding, such as blankets, quilts, or comforters; pillows; stuffed toys/animals; soft objects; bumper pads; liners; or sleep positioning devices. Also, infants must not have their heads, faces, or cribs covered at any time by items such as blankets, linens, or clothing. ? Do not use sleep positioning devices, such as wedges or infant positioners. The AAP has found no evidence that these devices are safe. Their use may increase the risk of suffocation ? Ensure that sleeping areas are ventilated and at a temperature that is comfortable for a lightly clothed adult. ? If an infant needs extra warmth, use sleep clothing: such as sleepers or footed pajamas as an alternative to blankets. ? Place only one infant in a crib to sleep. ? Infants may use a pacifier during sleep. But the pacifier must not be attached to a stuffed animal or the infant’s clothing by a string, cord, or other attaching mechanism that might be a suffocation or strangulation risk. ? If the infant falls asleep in a restrictive device other than a crib/pack N play (such as a bouncy chair or swing, or arrives to care asleep in a car seat), move the infant to a crib/pack N play immediately, unless you provide an Infant Sleep Exception form 2710 signed by the infant's health care professional. ? Our child care program is smoke-free. Smoking is not allowed in Texas child care operations (this includes ecigarettes and any type of vaporizers). ? Actively observe sleeping infants by sight and sound. ? If an infant can roll back and forth from front to back, place the infant on the infant's back for sleep and allow the infant to assume a preferred sleep position. ? Awake infants will have supervised “tummy time” several times daily. This will help them strengthen their muscles and develop normally. ? Do not swaddle an infant for sleep or rest unless you provide an Infant Sleep Exception form 2710 signed by the infant’s health care professional. Toddlers sleep on mats. My goal is to have the two different age groups (24 months and older & younger than 24months) sleeping on the same afternoon nap schedule. Nap time for children 24months and older is during the time between 12:00pm and 2:00pm each day. Typically, children 24 months and younger will take a morning nap as well, moving toward a one nap a day schedule between 18 months and 24mths. Typically, children 6 months and younger may need a third nap during the day, which can be incorporated into their late afternoon schedule. Night care children will follow or families bed time and rituals. The State of Texas requires that all children under the age of five at least have a rest period every day. No child will ever be forced to sleep; however, they are encouraged to remain quiet and on their mat during this time. Teacher/Parent Communication It is important that you feel comfortable with our policies, procedures and your child’s care. If you do not understand something, have a concern, or you feel uncomfortable with one or more of our policies and/or procedures it is important that you express that to us before enrolling your child. I’m always open to suggestions and feel communication is a very important part of a quality daycare. If there are any problems or concerns in the future, I encourage you to talk to me about them. If a lengthy discussion is needed, a time that is convenient for both of us will be scheduled, as the other children still need my attention during business hours. Also, so I can provide the best possible care, please feel free to communicate any needs, wants and/or concerns regarding your child. It is only through good parent/provider interaction that good quality nurturing care can be achieved. I am available for face to face communication, phone or texting while your child is in my care. Thank you for the opportunity to work with you and care for your little one. I look forward to a future of keeping your child smiling and safe.Note: By signing the Policies/ Handbook, Parent-Provider Contract/Enrollment Application, it is understood that all of the policies and procedures of Kathy Shilling (Kathy's Kids Clubhouse) handbook have been read, understood and agreed upon. I understand this is a legal and binding contract.Parent(s) or Guardian(s) Signature: __________________Date: ___________Signature of Daycare Provider: ______________________Date: ___________*********************************************************************************************I, _______________________________ have received a copy of the following policies. Sign: __________________________________Date: ___________ ................
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