Little World Day Care, Inc.
11 Shawmut Avenue
Sanford, ME 04073
207-321-1512
and
207-490-0070
Owned and Operated by Tina Hobbs
Policy Handbook
Little World Goals and Philosophy
Little World Day Care, Inc. offers quality care for children ages 12 month to school age.
Spacious clean rooms allow your child the freedom to interact with teacher/s and classmates. I/We strive to maximize their social, learning, and creative skills. Quality instruction for your child is very important to me/us.
Every effort will be made to offer your child enriched instructions and play environment.
Clean surroundings and loving-care are essential for the development of each and every child. The love and respect afforded all children will brighten their outlook.
Welcome to Little World Day Care, Inc.
This Handbook covers all of our childcare philosophies, business policies and expectations, for all children enrolled at Little World Day Care, Inc. This includes Part-time and Full-time enrollment and Before + After School Students. Please read this carefully, and feel free to discuss with me any questions you might have.
Updated November 2017
Admission Requirements
Children must be 12 month or older and on the scheduled nap time.
Day Care Hours
Mo - Fr: 6am - 5pm
Mission Statement
Little World Day Care, Inc.’s mission is to enrich the quality of family life by providing peace of mind to parents and by enhancing the life experiences of the children in our care.
Enrollment Policy
There are several forms that must be completed and on file before we can assume the responsibilty of caring for your child/ren. NO EXEPTIONS. This is to ensure that your child/ren will get the very best care possible from us. All forms must be updated at least every 6 month, sometimes sooner, according to need. If your phone number or address changes, please make sure to immediately let us know. This is very important for emergency situations. The following must be completed and turned into before your child can attend:
⦁ Maine State Child Record Form and Authorization to remove child
⦁ Immunization Record Form from physician
⦁ Medical Information & Assessment
⦁ Parent/Caregiver Contract
⦁ Permission to Photograph and/or Video Tape
⦁ Sunscreen/Insect Repellant Permission Form
⦁ Signed Parent Acknowledgement Checklist
⦁ Payments for Tuition
⦁ Deposit of $150 per child
⦁ Copy of DHHS Release Form (for Families that receive financial help through DHHS to pay for Child Care only)
Please note: Your child's slot is not secured until I have received the deposit AND the signed Parent-Provider Contract Enrollment Package. The Deposit of $150 per child is required to be paid, which will be applied to the last week's payment or forfeited if the child does not come to care as agreed.
Attendance Policy
Parent Fees/Tuition/Payments are determined by enrollment, not attendance! My expenses continue whether or not your child attends. When you register, you are buying a time slot, therefore, you are financially responsible for that slot whether or not your child attends.
This includes Illnesses, Personal Vacations, Day Care Vacations, School Vacations, or Day Care/School Closings. No monetary deductions or exchanges in days will be made if, for any reason your child does not attend.
Registration and Deposits
Your name will be put on a waiting list at no charge. As openings become available, parents will be notified and given the opportunity to accept the opening or to continue to keep their name on the waiting list.
If for any reason, after you have registered, you change your mind about attendance, you must provide a written-three-week-notice (21 days) of withdrawal and pay your full parent fee for each week registered.
Payment Procedures
Your specific rates will be outlined in your Contract and Rate Agreement.
Payments
Payments are due BEFORE child care services are provided!
You can pay either in cash, with a personal check or a Debit/Credit Card (Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express). There is an additional 5% (swiped transaction) OR 7.5% (manual transaction) Fee, if you’re paying with a Debit/Credit Card. Make checks payable to Little World Day Care, Inc.
Parent Fee Payments may be made
⦁ weekly
⦁ monthly or
⦁ by special arrangements
If you pay weekly, your payments are due Friday of the previous week or at drop off the first day of the week.
Monthly Payments are due the first day of the month.
If your payment due date falls on a holiday, your payment is due the day before.
All payments made after that, will incur a $15 Late Fee for each day after, as well as inability to leave your child at Day Care on that day.
If any checks bounce, you will be charged an additional Fee of $25 . If this occurs, I would no longer be able to accept checks from you. Payments would then have to be made by cash only.
This also applies, if you are receiving financial help through DHHS. DHHS is a third party, and has no responsibilities in regards of payments, attendance, etc.
Written-3-Week-Notice (21 days)
A written-3-week-notice must be given to me (Tina Hobbs).
The effective date on this notice is the upcoming Monday, if given, any other day than a Monday.
The Parent Fee is due by or on those Monday mornings, regardless that you bring your child to Day Care or not. Payments made after that will incur a $15 Late Fee for each day after.
Non-Discrimination
Little World Day Care, Inc. does not discriminate. Children and staff of all races, nationalities, and religions are welcome. Little World Day Care, Inc. respects cultural diversity and incorporates it into the daily Curriculum.
Special Needs Programming
Although I am not a specialist to provide services to children with special needs, I can call external providers to assist with a child's development. I can initiate a referral to seek services for a child requiring additional support. Specialists may provide services at Little World Day Care, Inc., if space is available, at the parent's request. Little World Day Care, Inc. is not responsible for any financial payments.
Orientation and Getting Started
Adjusting to a new childcare experience can be stressful for parents and children. Here are some suggestions to help you get started: Schedule a visit with your child before the first day. Talk about the Day Care at home. Even very young children will understand that you like the place and the people, and that you think your child will also like the new Day Care. The first day at the Day Care should only be an hour or two with each subsequent day gradually increasing in length.
Be prepared to stay with your child to help settle into the group. When you are ready to leave, say goodbye, then go without hesitation. On or by the first day you will need to bring in the Enrollment Forms, the Parent Fee and Deposit(s).
Saying "Goodbye" (Separation)
To help achieve the goal of allowing your child to become independent, emotionally healthy, and well adjusted, I recommend the following practices with children age two and older:
⦁ If possible, children should be walked, not carried
⦁ Present your child to me/staff on arrival. Many things about your child's health and state of mind can be determined in that brief time and nothing should be interfere with it. I/staff will then help the child join the classroom activities
⦁ Goodbyes at Day Care should be part of a normal, everyday routine every child goes through. Separation should be sweet and brief, with reassurance about the planned pick-up time.
Parents should encourage children to make friends with me/staff and look forward to being at Day Care without feeling guilt or disloyalty.
Arrivals & Departures
Children may not enter or leave my Day Care unless accompanied by an adult. Upon arrival, please be sure that I am/staff is fully aware (per verbal communication) that your child is arriving or leaving. These times can get chaotic when there are several families arriving all at once, so for the safety of all, please verbally communicate with me/staff to ensure that your child is being signed-in or signed-out. I am/Staff is required to maintain daily attendance records. These "Sign-in & Sign-out Attendance Sheets" are extremely important to ensure that all children are present and safe throughout the day and during evacuation drills as well.
Parents and Guardians are responsible for picking up and dropping off the child(ren) without being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. If it's suspected, that the parent/guardian is under the influence, we will be forced to deny pick up and call the police department, if other transportation can't be found.
Arrival Time
Please make every effort to have your child arrive prior to 8.45am so he/she can enjoy this vital acclimatization period. For the convenience of parents, my Day Care opens Monday - Friday at 6am.
I ask parents to bring their children no later than 8.45am each day they attend: There are several important reasons for this, all of which involve the welfare and happiness of all children.
⦁ Many of the most important activities of each day take place during morning hours starting at 8.45am. Children who skip some of these activities because of their late arrival often "miss out" on a favorite play period, circle time, story time, or art project.
⦁ When children arrive late it is a disruption for the other children that are focused on a project or in the middle of circle time.
These morning hours usually include planned group activities, which are important in helping children develop social skills and abilities involving interaction with their peers as well as self-discipline.
If you can expect to bring your child to Day Care late, please make arrangements with me/staff prior or contact me/staff ahead of time. It is difficult for me/staff to properly plan and conduct our class if children are allowed to "drop-in" at any time. No drop off after 10am!
Child Release Authorization Form
Children can only be released to people on the Release Form. There are NO EXEPTIONS! ID's will be checked.
Absences
Please notify me/staff if your child is not going to be at Day Care. I/Staff will try to reach a parent by 9:15am, if I/staff haven't heard from you and your child is not at Day Care.
Please note: Parent Fees are determined by enrollment, not attendance. You are financially responsible for your child's slot whether or not your child attends. This includes, but is not limited to Illnesses, Personal Vacation, Day Care/School Vacation, or Day Care/School Closings, Emergency Situations, etc. No monetary deductions or exchanges in days will be made if, for any reason your child does not attend.
Naptime
⦁ Parents who pick up during nap should be respectful of other sleeping children. Please note: Little World Day Care, Inc. believes it is developmentally inappropriate to wake children from sleep, unless they are being picked up to leave.
⦁ If a child awakens during naptime with their parent present, the parent should help them resettle or should take them from the room until it is possible to reenter without disrupting others. This may mean waiting until naptime ends.
Safety
The following safety precautions have been established to help ensure the safety of children, myself and staff:
⦁ Emergency evacuation drills are held regularly without notice. Parents present should participate in the drill
⦁ The daily record of children's arrivals and departures is used as an attendance checklist during safety drills
⦁ I am/Staff is trained in First Aid and CPR
Late Fees
⦁ Parent Fee is due and payable every Friday of the previous week or at drop off on the first day of the week. Payment made after that will incur in a $15 late fee each day after.
⦁ Late Pick-Up Charge: If a child leaves the Day Care after the agreed pick-up time, a late pick-up fee of $2 per minute will be due and payable the day of or the morning after, at drop off. A non-payment, will result in inability to leave your child at Day Care.
⦁ If any checks bounce, you will be charged an additional fee of $25. If this occurs, I would no longer be able to accept checks from you. Payments would then have to be made by cash only.
Holidays & Closings
Little World Day Care will be closed on days with extreme weather conditions and/or Emergency Situations. Any closings and/or delays will be posted on our Facebook page and on the "WGME 13" website. We will also be closed for the following holidays and special days:
⦁ New Year's (January)
⦁ Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January)
⦁ President's Day (February)
⦁ Patriot’s Day (April)
⦁ Memorial Day (May)
⦁ Independence Day (July)
⦁ Labor Day (September)
⦁ Columbus Day (October)
⦁ Veterans Day (November)
⦁ Thanksgiving (2 days; November)
⦁ Christmas Eve (December)
⦁ Christmas Day (December)
If any of those holidays fall on a Saturday, Little World Day Care, Inc. will be closed the Friday before.
If any of those holidays fall on a Sunday, Little World Day Care, Inc. will be closed the Monday after.
Little World Day Care, Inc. will be closed for two weeks of vacation during the year. This will be announced as soon as possible in advance. Parents will pay 100% of regular rate for provider's vacation.
The payment for the provider's vacation is due by Friday of the previous week. Payment made after that will incur in a $15 late fee for each day after.
Field Trips
Educational, cultural and recreational field trips are selected to expand and enrich your child's school experience. A parent or guardian must sign a permission slip in order for your child to participate on the field trip. Parents/Guardians will be notified of all field trips. At least one parent/Guardian has to accompany your child.
Volunteers are needed to drive to different locations. Please let me know, if you are willing to volunteer.
Parents/Guardians are responsible for all their child's/childrens expenses.
Volunteers
Day Care volunteers will be welcome if they are family members of currently enrolled children. Community members will also be welcome after they have been through an interview and a background check. All volunteers must comply with the Day Care's health requirements. We may also have students observing and volunteering at the Day Care for school projects.
Open Door Policy
Little World Day Care, Inc. maintains an open door policy with all parent/guardians of enrolled children. Parent/Guardians are not only welcomed, but also highly encouraged to volunteer and visit our classroom, as long as it is not interfering with our regular routine or during Nap Time. Parent/Guardians are encouraged to help with certain tasks such as cutting out items for the classroom, sharing information about their job or hobby, or to read to a group of children.
Discipline & Guidance
Little World Day Care, Inc. has a philosophy of positive guidance, incorporating creative teaching and involvement to help children develop self-discipline and inner control over their actions. It is based on mutual respect and an understanding of children's needs and development. Positive guidance uses redirection, verbalization of misunderstandings, consistency, and acceptance of feelings, firmness, and fairness. Children are encouraged to express their feelings verbally as well as to discuss and resolve conflicts rather than "act out" their feelings. In certain situations, a brief "quiet time" may be used to allow a child to calm down and recover self-control before resuming group activities. This time is limited to no more than one minute per year of the child's age.
Aggressive Behavior
All children need to be able to participate in Little World Day Care, Inc. planned activities and be able to follow simple directions. As with all aggressive behavior parents are notified with each incident. Aggressive and hurtful behavior includes, but is not limited to: Biting, hitting, kicking, pushing, and pinching. Such behavior is not appropriate. We will use every appropriate method to help children control their feelings.
1. Contact with the parents
2. Teacher - Parent - Conference to make suggestions
3. Second Conference at which time the parent may be asked to find alternate child care
Any or all of those steps may be skipped or omitted as deemed appropriate, based on the extend of the aggressive behavior and circumstances.
Child Abuse
I am/Staff is required by law to report any apparent incidence of child abuse or neglect defined as "non-acciddental infliction or threat of infliction of physical, emotional, or mental harm to a child".
All such reports must contain the name and address of the child, the name and address of the person responsible for the care of the child, and any other pertinent information.
Child Care Regulations
We have posted a copy of the Day Care's License, and other required notices. A copy of the Maine "Rules for Family Child Care Providers" and "Fire Prevention and Life Safety Requirements for Child Care Facilities" are available as of request.
Clothing & Personal Belongings
Children's clothing should be comfortable, allowing complete freedom of movement, washable, and suitable for daily indoor and outdoor activities. Since children spend time outdoors almost every day, parents should consider weather conditions when planning daily dress. To encourage development of independence bathroom skills, children's clothing should be easy for them to manipulate with a minimum of assistance.
Children must wear shoes which are practical as well as comfortable, safe and secure. For safety reasons no Flip Flops, Crogs and High Heels are allowed.
Please keep in mind that my space for your child's belongings is limited. So please reduce it to:
⦁ 2 complete changes of clothing (shirts, pants, underwear, socks, etc.). All needs to be labeled!
⦁ Parents of children ages 12 month - 18 month are also responsible for providing 2 crib sheets, 2 small blankets, etc. All needs to be labeled! Please note: No Pillows are allowed in a crib!
⦁ Parents of children 18 month and older are also responsible for providing a large blanket, or 2 small blankets. A small, travel size Pillow, if wanted. All needs to be labeled!
We will send your child's sheets, blankets, etc. home by Friday, so it can be washed and returned to the Day Care the following Monday.
Except for special items needed to smooth the transition from home, toys and personal belongings should remain at home. This will avoid lost possessions and hurt feelings. I/Staff will make reasonable efforts to safeguard children's personal belongings and clothing, but will not be responsible for lost and/or damaged items.
Everything your child brings to Day Care should be permanently labeled!
Anything left at the Day Care more than 30 days after termination of service, will be discarded due to room space.
Lost & Found Box
Any clothing and items, that are not labeled, and we do not know, who it belongs to, will be put in our "Lost & Found Box". The items will stay in that box for 30 days. If the items weren't claimed in those 30 days, we will discard them. The "Lost & Found Box" is located on the porch.
Meals & Snacks
We provide a nutritious Breakfast, Lunch, and a Snack, Milk, 100% Juice and Water. Posted weekly, menus are varied, with fresh fruits and vegetables included whenever possible.
If your child still eats baby food and drinks formula, and is not able to eat regular table food, then you as the parent, are responsible to provide your child's food/formula.
Notify me/staff of any special dietary restrictions. Little World Day Care, Inc. must receive a written statement of a physician or a licensed dietician for special therapeutic diets.
Parties
Birthdays and holidays are an especially exciting time for young children and I/staff will be pleased to help your child celebrate with classmates and myself/staff. Please discuss this with me/staff prior to the date.
If a parent decides to bring in a snack to Day Care, here are a few suggestions:
Please note: Little World Day Care, Inc. is a Nut-Free Facility!
Also: No Grapes, Raisins, Chocolate or any food, that contains those kind of ingredients! These are very harmful to dogs and cats!
⦁ Bananas, Apples, Pears, Orange wedges, etc.
⦁ Triscuits, Ritz Crackers, Cheese-Its, Goldfish, Pretzels, Chex Party Mix, Saltines, Wheat Crackers, etc.
⦁ Carrot Sticks, Celery, Broccoli Florets, Cauliflower, Cucumber Slices, String Beans, Cherry Tomatoes, etc. with Dip
⦁ Applesauce
⦁ Cheese Cubed or Sliced
⦁ English Muffins, Mini Bagels, Pita Bread, Wheat Toast, etc. with Spread
⦁ Tortilla Chips & Salsa
⦁ Rice Cakes
⦁ Yogurt
⦁ Sunflower Seeds
⦁ White Milk (0%, 1%, 2%, Whole Milk)
⦁ 100% Juice
Donations
Donations help keep costs down. If you have any of the following items on hand and are willing to donate them, it would be greatly appreciated!
Tissues, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, Dress Up Clothing (Hats, Costumes, etc.), Magazines for cutting (Children Magazines, National Geographic, etc.), Paper (Color, White), Glitter/Glitter Glue, Pipe Cleaners, Paper Plates, Glue, Crayons, Washable Markers, Washable Paint, Goggle Eyes, etc.
Any kind of healthy food (non-sugary), see "Parties" - list above or our Monthly Menu (posted on the porch).
IDEAS! We welcome any ideas that you may have for fun activities or crafts!
Photographs
On occasion I/staff and parents at the Day Care take photographs and/or videotapes the children while at play, birthday parties, events, and first and last day of school. The Day Care will post pictures for display. Parental consent will be obtained at the time of registration.
Diaper Policy
It is the parent’s responsibility to provide diapers/pull-ups, wipes, container for wipes, and diaper cream. It is also the parent's responsibility to check periodically (at least once a week) to see if or when your child needs more diapers/pull-ups, wipes, and cream (not the providers!). Every family has their own clearly labeled bin, on the porch.
Diapers are checked frequently, and changed every three hours or more often, if required. Diapers containing #2 are changed immediately.
Cleanliness/Hygiene
I/Staff do our best to maintain strict cleanliness and hygiene standards. Children's hands are washed upon arrival, before and after meals and after toileting. We use paper towels for drying hands, so children don't have to use the same towel. Washing hands is the most effective way to fight germs and stay free of illness. I/Staff wash hands frequently.
Health & Medical Policies
Little World Day Care, Inc. is required to have on file a physician’s report verifying overall good health and required immunizations. Current information on immunization status must be maintained while the child is enrolled.
Children are to be checked upon arrival each day for any visible indications of illness. If a child appears ill at drop off, the child is unable to stay and has to leave with the parent/guardian present.
If a child appears ill while at Day Care, parents will be contacted and asked to pick up the child immediately. If the parent cannot be reached, the emergency contact person will be called and asked to come pick the child up. The main reason for excluding children from Day Care are:
⦁ An illness prevents the child from participating in routine activities (including being able to go outside)
⦁ An illness requires more care than I/staff can provide without compromising the needs of the other children in the group
⦁ A child's presence poses an increased risk to others with whom the child may in contact
⦁ Head Lice: Your child can return to Day Care after he/she's been thoroughly treated and is Head Lice/Nit free
⦁ Moreover sick children want care from their parents in the comfort of their own homes
If other children become ill due to exposure to your sick 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 staff or I become ill due to exposure to a sick child, all or some of the Day Care children may need to arrange alternative child care.
I/Staff cannot admit any child appearing to be sick without a written statement from a doctor or registered nurse certifying no contagious disease is present.
Children should be kept at home and must be clear of all symptoms for 24 hours, before returning to Day Care, when they meet any of the following exclusion criteria:
⦁ Rectal temperature of 100.4 F or higher or underarm temperature of 99.4 F or higher, in the past 24 hours
⦁ Conjunctivitis/Pink Eye: redness on the eye and/or lids, usually with yellow discharge and crusting
⦁ Bronchitis, which begins with hoarseness, cough, and a slight elevation in temperature. The cough may be dry and painful, but gradually becomes productive
⦁ A rash you cannot identify which has not been diagnosed
⦁ Impetigo: Red pimples, which become small vesicles surrounded by a reddened area. When blisters break, the surface is raw and weeping. Look for signs in neck, creases, groin, underarms, face, hands or edge of diaper
⦁ Diarrhea, three or more times within 24 hours (watery or greenish BM's that look different and are more frequent than usual)
⦁ Vomiting within 24 hours (more than usual "spitting up")
⦁ A severe cold with fever, sneezing, and nose drainage
⦁ An unknown illness without obvious symptoms other than usual paleness, irritability, tiredness, or lack of interest
⦁ A contagious disease, including measles, chicken pox, mumps, roseola, strep throat, etc.
Communicable Diseases
All communicable diseases must be reported to the Day Care immediately. Exposed children and families will be notified of such disease within 24 hours. Children may be readmitted to the Day Care either with a physician's release form or after they have been out of Day Care for a designated period of time as determined by the Health Department.
Medication
Parents are encouraged to administer medication outside the Day Care.
I/Staff may administer medication on our "best efforts" basis.
I/Staff accept no responsibility or liability for any error or omission regarding administration of medication.
All medication (prescription or nonprescription) must be/have:
⦁ In the original prescription container
⦁ The child's name (First and Last) on it
⦁ The date of precreption was filled and the period for when medicine is to be given
⦁ The prescription's label or manufacturer instructions with specific name, strengh, instructions for administration, storage, and disposal OR Directions as labeled by the parent/guardian for nonprescription medications
⦁ Expiration date
⦁ Name and Phone number of the licensed health care professional who ordered the medicine
⦁ the pharmacy contact information
⦁ in a Child-resistant container
Before medication can be administered, a Medication Log needs to be filled out.
In the event of an injury or medical emergency, I/trained staff will immediately administer First Aid. If I/we believe the situation may call for parent involvement or professional medical attention, I/staff will attempt to contact a parent or other authorized emergency contact. If the condition is serious, I/staff will call 911 for an EMT response or will transport the child to the nearest Hospital Emergency Room.
Medical Emergency
Minor bumps and scratches are inevitable, but I/we make every effort to keep the children safe through supervision and childproofing. Minor injuries receive appropriate First Aid. If an emergency injury or illness occurs, you will be contacted as soon as possible. If necessary, 911 will be called and/or your child will be taken to the nearest Hospital where you will be asked to meet us. If you are not going to be at your usual place of employment, or at home, please make sure that I/we have a number where you can be reached. Parents are responsible for all costs involved in emergency medical treatment, including emergency transportation, if required. I/Staff will not be held liable for any sickness, injury of either parent/guardian or child while on the premises, or while the child is in the company of me/staff during field trips or outings.
Sunscreen & Insect Repellant
Parents will provide Sunscreen Lotion and Insect Repellant for their child(ren). I/staff may apply the Sunscreen Lotion/Insect Repellant at the beginning of each outdoor recess. The Sunscreen will have a minimum of SPF of 30.
I/Staff will not apply any Sunscreen or Insect Repellant before getting permission from the parent(s) or guardian of the child, so please make sure the Sunscreen and Insect Repellant Form is signed. If you choose not to supply Sunscreen and Insect Repellant, your child will not be protected!
Hearing & Vision Screening
All children enrolled in a licensed facility who are 4 years old must have hearing and vision screenings on file at the Day Care. If your child is currently 4 years of age, I must have this at the time of admission.
Activities & Daily Curriculum
The main goal of Little World Day Care, Inc. is to have fun, improve social skills, and encourage creative expression. I/We will utilize a variety of activities to accomplish this goal. Free play, reading, math, manipulative materials, games, socializing, nutrition activities, cooking, art and crafts, music/singing, dancing, dramatic play/pretend, and puzzles are just some of the activities we will be doing.
Music helps to develop young brains and will play a strong role in day-to-day activities. I/We have special music activities and may also play music during other activities, for example, during art and crafts. Some of the music I/we will be using may include classical, children's songs (by a variety of artists), foreign languages, etc.
It is the goal of Little World Day Care, Inc. to have a variety of toys readily available to the children.
Tactile and sensory projects are a part of the basic program. I/We will be utilize a variety of experiences each day. These experiences range from looking for bugs or worms in the play yard, to watching birds and squirrels, to helping make lunch and snacks. They may also include small chores, like baking cookies and cakes, clearing the table after lunch, etc.
Studies have shown that these types of activities nurture a sense of well-being and belonging in children.
My goal is also to have fun and to reinforce the writing of letters and numbers and the cognitive aspect of understanding what they are out of sequence and what they represent. The program is to help your child enter Kindergarten having basic skills required such as spelling/writing their name, name colors, recognize, count, and read numbers (at least 0-19), recognize letters of the alphabet, etc. Young children still learn best from participating in and observing the environment around them and if at any time they do not wish to work on something, they will not be forced.
Indoor/Outdoor Play
Indoor Play: We provide a variety of age-appropriate toys for indoor play. Toys may be rotated or placed temporarily out of use so that the children do not become bored. Younger children have less developed organizational skills and can get easily frustrated or upset when there are too many toys to choose from. 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.
Outdoor Play: I/Staff will be playing outdoors every day that weather permits. Please make sure that your child is appropriately dressed for outdoor play at all times. My/Our activities will include walks, playground, water play (sprinkler in the summer), bike/toy riding and others.
Daily Schedule
Young children and toddlers enjoy a structured schedule that allows for flexibility. A schedule helps the day to flow more smoothly, allows the children to anticipate upcoming events, and aids in achieving a variety of goals. We will adhere to our written schedule to the best of our ability, keeping in mind that anything can happen when children are involved. There will be times when we have to make adjustments to the schedule.
Our Daily Schedule is as followed:
6:00am - 8:45am Drop off
6:00am - 8:15am Free Play
8:15am - 8:45am Breakfast; 7:15am - 7: 40am Breakfast for School Age Children
8:45am - 9:15am Circle Time
9:15am - 10:00am Project (Arts + Crafts)
10:00am - 11:30am Outdoor Play (Weather Permitting)
11:45am - 12:45pm Lunch
12:45pm - 2:45pm Nap Time/Quiet Time
3:00pm - 3:30pm Snack
4:00pm - 5:00pm Outdoor Play (Weather Permitting)
School Age Children
It is the parent(s)/guardian(s) responsibility to inform us about the bus schedules for your child(ren), any changes of Pick up/Drop off, Early Release, School Closings, Snow Days, etc.
Breakfast for school age children is served between 7:15am - 7:40am.
Self Help Skills
Our goal is independence. We encourage the children to do chores independently. Children are encouraged to hang coats on hooks, put on shoes, to clean up their own plates/cups after each meal, etc.
Toilet Training
With cooperation from the parents, my program will help toilet train children. When parents and I agree that the child is ready for toilet training, we will discuss training methods that should be consistent between both at home and during child care times.
Smoking/Drug Policy
No smoking is permitted on the premises. Please do not dispose your cigarette butts on my property, including the sidewalk/street or parking lot. Please be aware, that the facility and surrounding area (100 feet) is a drug-free/smoke-free zone. Anyone caught possessing or using drugs in set premisses, will be reported and prescecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This would also mean, that the child(ren) enrolled, are no longer able to attend Little World Day Care, Inc.
Classroom/Playground Rules
⦁ Doors and Gates are for parents/guardians and teachers to open/shut ONLY!
⦁ Everyone is expected to help keep the Day Care litter free by picking up any trash or belongings that you find strewn around
⦁ Please take your and your child(ren)'s shoes off on the porch, before entering the Day Care
⦁ Keep sand and sand toys in sandbox
⦁ Use all toys and equipment appropriately
⦁ Be gentle to my dog and cats, and NO RUNNING AFTER THEM!
⦁ Never stand on chairs, tables or couch
⦁ Never sit on tables, on chairs only
⦁ Be kind, gentle and respectful to one another
⦁ Everyone has the right to privacy and to be physically safe
⦁ If you allow your child to bring in a toy from home, he/she will have to share with the other children, or it will be put away
⦁ No pretend gun/fight play
⦁ Children are not allowed to fight, push, trip or use any other aggressive behavior
⦁ Children may not run with sticks
⦁ The only thing that is thrown is a ball (outside only!)
⦁ Children must walk inside
⦁ Children eat and drink in a sitting position at the table (no walking around with food/drink)
⦁ Money, Gum & Candy is not allowed to be brought to Day Care
⦁ Etc.
Grievance Procedure
If a problem exists, I want it corrected as quickly as possible. This can only be achieved if it is identified immediately. Parents/Guardians with concerns should discuss them with me (not my staff).
Confidentiality
All information given to Little World Day Care, Inc. to enroll your child(ren) will be kept confidential. No personal information will be discussed with any other person outside of Little World Day Care, Inc.
Substitute Care Arrangements
Should I need to be away from the Day Care substitute care will be provided by a back-up caregiver.
If in the event of an emergency if a back-up caregiver cannot be located, parents will be called to pick up their child(ren).
Please note: Parents are responsible for providing their own back up care for illness, holidays, provider's vacations, provider's illnesses, emergency and personal days. I/Staff will not be responsible for providing back up caregivers.
Resources
We have different kind of resources about development, illnesses, vaccinations, sleeping habits, breastfeeding, activities, etc. We also have phone numbers, addresses and information about Maine Dep. of Health and Human Services, Taxes, WIC Program, Unemployment, Career Centers, Legal Services, Family Crisis Assistance Program, Maine Care, etc.
There are also resource books available for you. If you would like to borrow a book, there is a $10 deposit per book.
Termination of Enrollment
Enrollment will be considered terminated if:
⦁ I receive a written-3-week- notice of withdrawal (21 days)
The effective date on this notice is the upcoming Monday, if given any other day than a Monday. The Parent Fee is due by or on those Monday mornings, regardless that you bring your child to Day Care or not. Payments made after that, will incur a $15 Late Fee for each day after.
⦁ Payment is delinquent beyond the 5th day of the week
⦁ The payments fail to comply with this agreement, the Policy Handbook, or any other rules of the Day Care
⦁ I am/We are unable to meet the needs of the child, or that it is not in the best interest for me/us to have the child continue in attendance
⦁ There is a serious illness or death of the child
Please note: In case of non-payment, legal action may be taken, and the parents/legal guardians will be responsible for all legal fees incurred.
I retain the sole right and responsibility to determine any disputed factual matters regarding termination of enrollment.
Fundraiser
At least once a year, we will have a Fundraiser, which will be used towards new toys, equipment, arts/crafts, etc.
Change to the Policy Handbook
I may change any policy contained in the Policy Handbook. Parents will receive a copy of the updated Policy Handbook distributed to children's mailboxes.
A copy of the Policy Handbook is posted on the porch as well.
We are on the Internet
Please "Like" us on Facebook
www.littleworlddaycare.weebly.com
Little World Day Care, Inc.
11 Shawmut Avenue
Sanford, ME 04073
207-321-1512
and
207-490-0070
Owned and Operated by Tina Hobbs
Policy Handbook
Little World Goals and Philosophy
Little World Day Care, Inc. offers quality care for children ages 12 month to school age.
Spacious clean rooms allow your child the freedom to interact with teacher/s and classmates. I/We strive to maximize their social, learning, and creative skills. Quality instruction for your child is very important to me/us.
Every effort will be made to offer your child enriched instructions and play environment.
Clean surroundings and loving-care are essential for the development of each and every child. The love and respect afforded all children will brighten their outlook.
Welcome to Little World Day Care, Inc.
This Handbook covers all of our childcare philosophies, business policies and expectations, for all children enrolled at Little World Day Care, Inc. This includes Part-time and Full-time enrollment and Before + After School Students. Please read this carefully, and feel free to discuss with me any questions you might have.
Updated November 2017
Admission Requirements
Children must be 12 month or older and on the scheduled nap time.
Day Care Hours
Mo - Fr: 6am - 5pm
Mission Statement
Little World Day Care, Inc.’s mission is to enrich the quality of family life by providing peace of mind to parents and by enhancing the life experiences of the children in our care.
Enrollment Policy
There are several forms that must be completed and on file before we can assume the responsibilty of caring for your child/ren. NO EXEPTIONS. This is to ensure that your child/ren will get the very best care possible from us. All forms must be updated at least every 6 month, sometimes sooner, according to need. If your phone number or address changes, please make sure to immediately let us know. This is very important for emergency situations. The following must be completed and turned into before your child can attend:
⦁ Maine State Child Record Form and Authorization to remove child
⦁ Immunization Record Form from physician
⦁ Medical Information & Assessment
⦁ Parent/Caregiver Contract
⦁ Permission to Photograph and/or Video Tape
⦁ Sunscreen/Insect Repellant Permission Form
⦁ Signed Parent Acknowledgement Checklist
⦁ Payments for Tuition
⦁ Deposit of $150 per child
⦁ Copy of DHHS Release Form (for Families that receive financial help through DHHS to pay for Child Care only)
Please note: Your child's slot is not secured until I have received the deposit AND the signed Parent-Provider Contract Enrollment Package. The Deposit of $150 per child is required to be paid, which will be applied to the last week's payment or forfeited if the child does not come to care as agreed.
Attendance Policy
Parent Fees/Tuition/Payments are determined by enrollment, not attendance! My expenses continue whether or not your child attends. When you register, you are buying a time slot, therefore, you are financially responsible for that slot whether or not your child attends.
This includes Illnesses, Personal Vacations, Day Care Vacations, School Vacations, or Day Care/School Closings. No monetary deductions or exchanges in days will be made if, for any reason your child does not attend.
Registration and Deposits
Your name will be put on a waiting list at no charge. As openings become available, parents will be notified and given the opportunity to accept the opening or to continue to keep their name on the waiting list.
If for any reason, after you have registered, you change your mind about attendance, you must provide a written-three-week-notice (21 days) of withdrawal and pay your full parent fee for each week registered.
Payment Procedures
Your specific rates will be outlined in your Contract and Rate Agreement.
Payments
Payments are due BEFORE child care services are provided!
You can pay either in cash, with a personal check or a Debit/Credit Card (Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express). There is an additional 5% (swiped transaction) OR 7.5% (manual transaction) Fee, if you’re paying with a Debit/Credit Card. Make checks payable to Little World Day Care, Inc.
Parent Fee Payments may be made
⦁ weekly
⦁ monthly or
⦁ by special arrangements
If you pay weekly, your payments are due Friday of the previous week or at drop off the first day of the week.
Monthly Payments are due the first day of the month.
If your payment due date falls on a holiday, your payment is due the day before.
All payments made after that, will incur a $15 Late Fee for each day after, as well as inability to leave your child at Day Care on that day.
If any checks bounce, you will be charged an additional Fee of $25 . If this occurs, I would no longer be able to accept checks from you. Payments would then have to be made by cash only.
This also applies, if you are receiving financial help through DHHS. DHHS is a third party, and has no responsibilities in regards of payments, attendance, etc.
Written-3-Week-Notice (21 days)
A written-3-week-notice must be given to me (Tina Hobbs).
The effective date on this notice is the upcoming Monday, if given, any other day than a Monday.
The Parent Fee is due by or on those Monday mornings, regardless that you bring your child to Day Care or not. Payments made after that will incur a $15 Late Fee for each day after.
Non-Discrimination
Little World Day Care, Inc. does not discriminate. Children and staff of all races, nationalities, and religions are welcome. Little World Day Care, Inc. respects cultural diversity and incorporates it into the daily Curriculum.
Special Needs Programming
Although I am not a specialist to provide services to children with special needs, I can call external providers to assist with a child's development. I can initiate a referral to seek services for a child requiring additional support. Specialists may provide services at Little World Day Care, Inc., if space is available, at the parent's request. Little World Day Care, Inc. is not responsible for any financial payments.
Orientation and Getting Started
Adjusting to a new childcare experience can be stressful for parents and children. Here are some suggestions to help you get started: Schedule a visit with your child before the first day. Talk about the Day Care at home. Even very young children will understand that you like the place and the people, and that you think your child will also like the new Day Care. The first day at the Day Care should only be an hour or two with each subsequent day gradually increasing in length.
Be prepared to stay with your child to help settle into the group. When you are ready to leave, say goodbye, then go without hesitation. On or by the first day you will need to bring in the Enrollment Forms, the Parent Fee and Deposit(s).
Saying "Goodbye" (Separation)
To help achieve the goal of allowing your child to become independent, emotionally healthy, and well adjusted, I recommend the following practices with children age two and older:
⦁ If possible, children should be walked, not carried
⦁ Present your child to me/staff on arrival. Many things about your child's health and state of mind can be determined in that brief time and nothing should be interfere with it. I/staff will then help the child join the classroom activities
⦁ Goodbyes at Day Care should be part of a normal, everyday routine every child goes through. Separation should be sweet and brief, with reassurance about the planned pick-up time.
Parents should encourage children to make friends with me/staff and look forward to being at Day Care without feeling guilt or disloyalty.
Arrivals & Departures
Children may not enter or leave my Day Care unless accompanied by an adult. Upon arrival, please be sure that I am/staff is fully aware (per verbal communication) that your child is arriving or leaving. These times can get chaotic when there are several families arriving all at once, so for the safety of all, please verbally communicate with me/staff to ensure that your child is being signed-in or signed-out. I am/Staff is required to maintain daily attendance records. These "Sign-in & Sign-out Attendance Sheets" are extremely important to ensure that all children are present and safe throughout the day and during evacuation drills as well.
Parents and Guardians are responsible for picking up and dropping off the child(ren) without being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. If it's suspected, that the parent/guardian is under the influence, we will be forced to deny pick up and call the police department, if other transportation can't be found.
Arrival Time
Please make every effort to have your child arrive prior to 8.45am so he/she can enjoy this vital acclimatization period. For the convenience of parents, my Day Care opens Monday - Friday at 6am.
I ask parents to bring their children no later than 8.45am each day they attend: There are several important reasons for this, all of which involve the welfare and happiness of all children.
⦁ Many of the most important activities of each day take place during morning hours starting at 8.45am. Children who skip some of these activities because of their late arrival often "miss out" on a favorite play period, circle time, story time, or art project.
⦁ When children arrive late it is a disruption for the other children that are focused on a project or in the middle of circle time.
These morning hours usually include planned group activities, which are important in helping children develop social skills and abilities involving interaction with their peers as well as self-discipline.
If you can expect to bring your child to Day Care late, please make arrangements with me/staff prior or contact me/staff ahead of time. It is difficult for me/staff to properly plan and conduct our class if children are allowed to "drop-in" at any time. No drop off after 10am!
Child Release Authorization Form
Children can only be released to people on the Release Form. There are NO EXEPTIONS! ID's will be checked.
Absences
Please notify me/staff if your child is not going to be at Day Care. I/Staff will try to reach a parent by 9:15am, if I/staff haven't heard from you and your child is not at Day Care.
Please note: Parent Fees are determined by enrollment, not attendance. You are financially responsible for your child's slot whether or not your child attends. This includes, but is not limited to Illnesses, Personal Vacation, Day Care/School Vacation, or Day Care/School Closings, Emergency Situations, etc. No monetary deductions or exchanges in days will be made if, for any reason your child does not attend.
Naptime
⦁ Parents who pick up during nap should be respectful of other sleeping children. Please note: Little World Day Care, Inc. believes it is developmentally inappropriate to wake children from sleep, unless they are being picked up to leave.
⦁ If a child awakens during naptime with their parent present, the parent should help them resettle or should take them from the room until it is possible to reenter without disrupting others. This may mean waiting until naptime ends.
Safety
The following safety precautions have been established to help ensure the safety of children, myself and staff:
⦁ Emergency evacuation drills are held regularly without notice. Parents present should participate in the drill
⦁ The daily record of children's arrivals and departures is used as an attendance checklist during safety drills
⦁ I am/Staff is trained in First Aid and CPR
Late Fees
⦁ Parent Fee is due and payable every Friday of the previous week or at drop off on the first day of the week. Payment made after that will incur in a $15 late fee each day after.
⦁ Late Pick-Up Charge: If a child leaves the Day Care after the agreed pick-up time, a late pick-up fee of $2 per minute will be due and payable the day of or the morning after, at drop off. A non-payment, will result in inability to leave your child at Day Care.
⦁ If any checks bounce, you will be charged an additional fee of $25. If this occurs, I would no longer be able to accept checks from you. Payments would then have to be made by cash only.
Holidays & Closings
Little World Day Care will be closed on days with extreme weather conditions and/or Emergency Situations. Any closings and/or delays will be posted on our Facebook page and on the "WGME 13" website. We will also be closed for the following holidays and special days:
⦁ New Year's (January)
⦁ Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January)
⦁ President's Day (February)
⦁ Patriot’s Day (April)
⦁ Memorial Day (May)
⦁ Independence Day (July)
⦁ Labor Day (September)
⦁ Columbus Day (October)
⦁ Veterans Day (November)
⦁ Thanksgiving (2 days; November)
⦁ Christmas Eve (December)
⦁ Christmas Day (December)
If any of those holidays fall on a Saturday, Little World Day Care, Inc. will be closed the Friday before.
If any of those holidays fall on a Sunday, Little World Day Care, Inc. will be closed the Monday after.
Little World Day Care, Inc. will be closed for two weeks of vacation during the year. This will be announced as soon as possible in advance. Parents will pay 100% of regular rate for provider's vacation.
The payment for the provider's vacation is due by Friday of the previous week. Payment made after that will incur in a $15 late fee for each day after.
Field Trips
Educational, cultural and recreational field trips are selected to expand and enrich your child's school experience. A parent or guardian must sign a permission slip in order for your child to participate on the field trip. Parents/Guardians will be notified of all field trips. At least one parent/Guardian has to accompany your child.
Volunteers are needed to drive to different locations. Please let me know, if you are willing to volunteer.
Parents/Guardians are responsible for all their child's/childrens expenses.
Volunteers
Day Care volunteers will be welcome if they are family members of currently enrolled children. Community members will also be welcome after they have been through an interview and a background check. All volunteers must comply with the Day Care's health requirements. We may also have students observing and volunteering at the Day Care for school projects.
Open Door Policy
Little World Day Care, Inc. maintains an open door policy with all parent/guardians of enrolled children. Parent/Guardians are not only welcomed, but also highly encouraged to volunteer and visit our classroom, as long as it is not interfering with our regular routine or during Nap Time. Parent/Guardians are encouraged to help with certain tasks such as cutting out items for the classroom, sharing information about their job or hobby, or to read to a group of children.
Discipline & Guidance
Little World Day Care, Inc. has a philosophy of positive guidance, incorporating creative teaching and involvement to help children develop self-discipline and inner control over their actions. It is based on mutual respect and an understanding of children's needs and development. Positive guidance uses redirection, verbalization of misunderstandings, consistency, and acceptance of feelings, firmness, and fairness. Children are encouraged to express their feelings verbally as well as to discuss and resolve conflicts rather than "act out" their feelings. In certain situations, a brief "quiet time" may be used to allow a child to calm down and recover self-control before resuming group activities. This time is limited to no more than one minute per year of the child's age.
Aggressive Behavior
All children need to be able to participate in Little World Day Care, Inc. planned activities and be able to follow simple directions. As with all aggressive behavior parents are notified with each incident. Aggressive and hurtful behavior includes, but is not limited to: Biting, hitting, kicking, pushing, and pinching. Such behavior is not appropriate. We will use every appropriate method to help children control their feelings.
1. Contact with the parents
2. Teacher - Parent - Conference to make suggestions
3. Second Conference at which time the parent may be asked to find alternate child care
Any or all of those steps may be skipped or omitted as deemed appropriate, based on the extend of the aggressive behavior and circumstances.
Child Abuse
I am/Staff is required by law to report any apparent incidence of child abuse or neglect defined as "non-acciddental infliction or threat of infliction of physical, emotional, or mental harm to a child".
All such reports must contain the name and address of the child, the name and address of the person responsible for the care of the child, and any other pertinent information.
Child Care Regulations
We have posted a copy of the Day Care's License, and other required notices. A copy of the Maine "Rules for Family Child Care Providers" and "Fire Prevention and Life Safety Requirements for Child Care Facilities" are available as of request.
Clothing & Personal Belongings
Children's clothing should be comfortable, allowing complete freedom of movement, washable, and suitable for daily indoor and outdoor activities. Since children spend time outdoors almost every day, parents should consider weather conditions when planning daily dress. To encourage development of independence bathroom skills, children's clothing should be easy for them to manipulate with a minimum of assistance.
Children must wear shoes which are practical as well as comfortable, safe and secure. For safety reasons no Flip Flops, Crogs and High Heels are allowed.
Please keep in mind that my space for your child's belongings is limited. So please reduce it to:
⦁ 2 complete changes of clothing (shirts, pants, underwear, socks, etc.). All needs to be labeled!
⦁ Parents of children ages 12 month - 18 month are also responsible for providing 2 crib sheets, 2 small blankets, etc. All needs to be labeled! Please note: No Pillows are allowed in a crib!
⦁ Parents of children 18 month and older are also responsible for providing a large blanket, or 2 small blankets. A small, travel size Pillow, if wanted. All needs to be labeled!
We will send your child's sheets, blankets, etc. home by Friday, so it can be washed and returned to the Day Care the following Monday.
Except for special items needed to smooth the transition from home, toys and personal belongings should remain at home. This will avoid lost possessions and hurt feelings. I/Staff will make reasonable efforts to safeguard children's personal belongings and clothing, but will not be responsible for lost and/or damaged items.
Everything your child brings to Day Care should be permanently labeled!
Anything left at the Day Care more than 30 days after termination of service, will be discarded due to room space.
Lost & Found Box
Any clothing and items, that are not labeled, and we do not know, who it belongs to, will be put in our "Lost & Found Box". The items will stay in that box for 30 days. If the items weren't claimed in those 30 days, we will discard them. The "Lost & Found Box" is located on the porch.
Meals & Snacks
We provide a nutritious Breakfast, Lunch, and a Snack, Milk, 100% Juice and Water. Posted weekly, menus are varied, with fresh fruits and vegetables included whenever possible.
If your child still eats baby food and drinks formula, and is not able to eat regular table food, then you as the parent, are responsible to provide your child's food/formula.
Notify me/staff of any special dietary restrictions. Little World Day Care, Inc. must receive a written statement of a physician or a licensed dietician for special therapeutic diets.
Parties
Birthdays and holidays are an especially exciting time for young children and I/staff will be pleased to help your child celebrate with classmates and myself/staff. Please discuss this with me/staff prior to the date.
If a parent decides to bring in a snack to Day Care, here are a few suggestions:
Please note: Little World Day Care, Inc. is a Nut-Free Facility!
Also: No Grapes, Raisins, Chocolate or any food, that contains those kind of ingredients! These are very harmful to dogs and cats!
⦁ Bananas, Apples, Pears, Orange wedges, etc.
⦁ Triscuits, Ritz Crackers, Cheese-Its, Goldfish, Pretzels, Chex Party Mix, Saltines, Wheat Crackers, etc.
⦁ Carrot Sticks, Celery, Broccoli Florets, Cauliflower, Cucumber Slices, String Beans, Cherry Tomatoes, etc. with Dip
⦁ Applesauce
⦁ Cheese Cubed or Sliced
⦁ English Muffins, Mini Bagels, Pita Bread, Wheat Toast, etc. with Spread
⦁ Tortilla Chips & Salsa
⦁ Rice Cakes
⦁ Yogurt
⦁ Sunflower Seeds
⦁ White Milk (0%, 1%, 2%, Whole Milk)
⦁ 100% Juice
Donations
Donations help keep costs down. If you have any of the following items on hand and are willing to donate them, it would be greatly appreciated!
Tissues, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, Dress Up Clothing (Hats, Costumes, etc.), Magazines for cutting (Children Magazines, National Geographic, etc.), Paper (Color, White), Glitter/Glitter Glue, Pipe Cleaners, Paper Plates, Glue, Crayons, Washable Markers, Washable Paint, Goggle Eyes, etc.
Any kind of healthy food (non-sugary), see "Parties" - list above or our Monthly Menu (posted on the porch).
IDEAS! We welcome any ideas that you may have for fun activities or crafts!
Photographs
On occasion I/staff and parents at the Day Care take photographs and/or videotapes the children while at play, birthday parties, events, and first and last day of school. The Day Care will post pictures for display. Parental consent will be obtained at the time of registration.
Diaper Policy
It is the parent’s responsibility to provide diapers/pull-ups, wipes, container for wipes, and diaper cream. It is also the parent's responsibility to check periodically (at least once a week) to see if or when your child needs more diapers/pull-ups, wipes, and cream (not the providers!). Every family has their own clearly labeled bin, on the porch.
Diapers are checked frequently, and changed every three hours or more often, if required. Diapers containing #2 are changed immediately.
Cleanliness/Hygiene
I/Staff do our best to maintain strict cleanliness and hygiene standards. Children's hands are washed upon arrival, before and after meals and after toileting. We use paper towels for drying hands, so children don't have to use the same towel. Washing hands is the most effective way to fight germs and stay free of illness. I/Staff wash hands frequently.
Health & Medical Policies
Little World Day Care, Inc. is required to have on file a physician’s report verifying overall good health and required immunizations. Current information on immunization status must be maintained while the child is enrolled.
Children are to be checked upon arrival each day for any visible indications of illness. If a child appears ill at drop off, the child is unable to stay and has to leave with the parent/guardian present.
If a child appears ill while at Day Care, parents will be contacted and asked to pick up the child immediately. If the parent cannot be reached, the emergency contact person will be called and asked to come pick the child up. The main reason for excluding children from Day Care are:
⦁ An illness prevents the child from participating in routine activities (including being able to go outside)
⦁ An illness requires more care than I/staff can provide without compromising the needs of the other children in the group
⦁ A child's presence poses an increased risk to others with whom the child may in contact
⦁ Head Lice: Your child can return to Day Care after he/she's been thoroughly treated and is Head Lice/Nit free
⦁ Moreover sick children want care from their parents in the comfort of their own homes
If other children become ill due to exposure to your sick 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 staff or I become ill due to exposure to a sick child, all or some of the Day Care children may need to arrange alternative child care.
I/Staff cannot admit any child appearing to be sick without a written statement from a doctor or registered nurse certifying no contagious disease is present.
Children should be kept at home and must be clear of all symptoms for 24 hours, before returning to Day Care, when they meet any of the following exclusion criteria:
⦁ Rectal temperature of 100.4 F or higher or underarm temperature of 99.4 F or higher, in the past 24 hours
⦁ Conjunctivitis/Pink Eye: redness on the eye and/or lids, usually with yellow discharge and crusting
⦁ Bronchitis, which begins with hoarseness, cough, and a slight elevation in temperature. The cough may be dry and painful, but gradually becomes productive
⦁ A rash you cannot identify which has not been diagnosed
⦁ Impetigo: Red pimples, which become small vesicles surrounded by a reddened area. When blisters break, the surface is raw and weeping. Look for signs in neck, creases, groin, underarms, face, hands or edge of diaper
⦁ Diarrhea, three or more times within 24 hours (watery or greenish BM's that look different and are more frequent than usual)
⦁ Vomiting within 24 hours (more than usual "spitting up")
⦁ A severe cold with fever, sneezing, and nose drainage
⦁ An unknown illness without obvious symptoms other than usual paleness, irritability, tiredness, or lack of interest
⦁ A contagious disease, including measles, chicken pox, mumps, roseola, strep throat, etc.
Communicable Diseases
All communicable diseases must be reported to the Day Care immediately. Exposed children and families will be notified of such disease within 24 hours. Children may be readmitted to the Day Care either with a physician's release form or after they have been out of Day Care for a designated period of time as determined by the Health Department.
Medication
Parents are encouraged to administer medication outside the Day Care.
I/Staff may administer medication on our "best efforts" basis.
I/Staff accept no responsibility or liability for any error or omission regarding administration of medication.
All medication (prescription or nonprescription) must be/have:
⦁ In the original prescription container
⦁ The child's name (First and Last) on it
⦁ The date of precreption was filled and the period for when medicine is to be given
⦁ The prescription's label or manufacturer instructions with specific name, strengh, instructions for administration, storage, and disposal OR Directions as labeled by the parent/guardian for nonprescription medications
⦁ Expiration date
⦁ Name and Phone number of the licensed health care professional who ordered the medicine
⦁ the pharmacy contact information
⦁ in a Child-resistant container
Before medication can be administered, a Medication Log needs to be filled out.
In the event of an injury or medical emergency, I/trained staff will immediately administer First Aid. If I/we believe the situation may call for parent involvement or professional medical attention, I/staff will attempt to contact a parent or other authorized emergency contact. If the condition is serious, I/staff will call 911 for an EMT response or will transport the child to the nearest Hospital Emergency Room.
Medical Emergency
Minor bumps and scratches are inevitable, but I/we make every effort to keep the children safe through supervision and childproofing. Minor injuries receive appropriate First Aid. If an emergency injury or illness occurs, you will be contacted as soon as possible. If necessary, 911 will be called and/or your child will be taken to the nearest Hospital where you will be asked to meet us. If you are not going to be at your usual place of employment, or at home, please make sure that I/we have a number where you can be reached. Parents are responsible for all costs involved in emergency medical treatment, including emergency transportation, if required. I/Staff will not be held liable for any sickness, injury of either parent/guardian or child while on the premises, or while the child is in the company of me/staff during field trips or outings.
Sunscreen & Insect Repellant
Parents will provide Sunscreen Lotion and Insect Repellant for their child(ren). I/staff may apply the Sunscreen Lotion/Insect Repellant at the beginning of each outdoor recess. The Sunscreen will have a minimum of SPF of 30.
I/Staff will not apply any Sunscreen or Insect Repellant before getting permission from the parent(s) or guardian of the child, so please make sure the Sunscreen and Insect Repellant Form is signed. If you choose not to supply Sunscreen and Insect Repellant, your child will not be protected!
Hearing & Vision Screening
All children enrolled in a licensed facility who are 4 years old must have hearing and vision screenings on file at the Day Care. If your child is currently 4 years of age, I must have this at the time of admission.
Activities & Daily Curriculum
The main goal of Little World Day Care, Inc. is to have fun, improve social skills, and encourage creative expression. I/We will utilize a variety of activities to accomplish this goal. Free play, reading, math, manipulative materials, games, socializing, nutrition activities, cooking, art and crafts, music/singing, dancing, dramatic play/pretend, and puzzles are just some of the activities we will be doing.
Music helps to develop young brains and will play a strong role in day-to-day activities. I/We have special music activities and may also play music during other activities, for example, during art and crafts. Some of the music I/we will be using may include classical, children's songs (by a variety of artists), foreign languages, etc.
It is the goal of Little World Day Care, Inc. to have a variety of toys readily available to the children.
Tactile and sensory projects are a part of the basic program. I/We will be utilize a variety of experiences each day. These experiences range from looking for bugs or worms in the play yard, to watching birds and squirrels, to helping make lunch and snacks. They may also include small chores, like baking cookies and cakes, clearing the table after lunch, etc.
Studies have shown that these types of activities nurture a sense of well-being and belonging in children.
My goal is also to have fun and to reinforce the writing of letters and numbers and the cognitive aspect of understanding what they are out of sequence and what they represent. The program is to help your child enter Kindergarten having basic skills required such as spelling/writing their name, name colors, recognize, count, and read numbers (at least 0-19), recognize letters of the alphabet, etc. Young children still learn best from participating in and observing the environment around them and if at any time they do not wish to work on something, they will not be forced.
Indoor/Outdoor Play
Indoor Play: We provide a variety of age-appropriate toys for indoor play. Toys may be rotated or placed temporarily out of use so that the children do not become bored. Younger children have less developed organizational skills and can get easily frustrated or upset when there are too many toys to choose from. 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.
Outdoor Play: I/Staff will be playing outdoors every day that weather permits. Please make sure that your child is appropriately dressed for outdoor play at all times. My/Our activities will include walks, playground, water play (sprinkler in the summer), bike/toy riding and others.
Daily Schedule
Young children and toddlers enjoy a structured schedule that allows for flexibility. A schedule helps the day to flow more smoothly, allows the children to anticipate upcoming events, and aids in achieving a variety of goals. We will adhere to our written schedule to the best of our ability, keeping in mind that anything can happen when children are involved. There will be times when we have to make adjustments to the schedule.
Our Daily Schedule is as followed:
6:00am - 8:45am Drop off
6:00am - 8:15am Free Play
8:15am - 8:45am Breakfast; 7:15am - 7: 40am Breakfast for School Age Children
8:45am - 9:15am Circle Time
9:15am - 10:00am Project (Arts + Crafts)
10:00am - 11:30am Outdoor Play (Weather Permitting)
11:45am - 12:45pm Lunch
12:45pm - 2:45pm Nap Time/Quiet Time
3:00pm - 3:30pm Snack
4:00pm - 5:00pm Outdoor Play (Weather Permitting)
School Age Children
It is the parent(s)/guardian(s) responsibility to inform us about the bus schedules for your child(ren), any changes of Pick up/Drop off, Early Release, School Closings, Snow Days, etc.
Breakfast for school age children is served between 7:15am - 7:40am.
Self Help Skills
Our goal is independence. We encourage the children to do chores independently. Children are encouraged to hang coats on hooks, put on shoes, to clean up their own plates/cups after each meal, etc.
Toilet Training
With cooperation from the parents, my program will help toilet train children. When parents and I agree that the child is ready for toilet training, we will discuss training methods that should be consistent between both at home and during child care times.
Smoking/Drug Policy
No smoking is permitted on the premises. Please do not dispose your cigarette butts on my property, including the sidewalk/street or parking lot. Please be aware, that the facility and surrounding area (100 feet) is a drug-free/smoke-free zone. Anyone caught possessing or using drugs in set premisses, will be reported and prescecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This would also mean, that the child(ren) enrolled, are no longer able to attend Little World Day Care, Inc.
Classroom/Playground Rules
⦁ Doors and Gates are for parents/guardians and teachers to open/shut ONLY!
⦁ Everyone is expected to help keep the Day Care litter free by picking up any trash or belongings that you find strewn around
⦁ Please take your and your child(ren)'s shoes off on the porch, before entering the Day Care
⦁ Keep sand and sand toys in sandbox
⦁ Use all toys and equipment appropriately
⦁ Be gentle to my dog and cats, and NO RUNNING AFTER THEM!
⦁ Never stand on chairs, tables or couch
⦁ Never sit on tables, on chairs only
⦁ Be kind, gentle and respectful to one another
⦁ Everyone has the right to privacy and to be physically safe
⦁ If you allow your child to bring in a toy from home, he/she will have to share with the other children, or it will be put away
⦁ No pretend gun/fight play
⦁ Children are not allowed to fight, push, trip or use any other aggressive behavior
⦁ Children may not run with sticks
⦁ The only thing that is thrown is a ball (outside only!)
⦁ Children must walk inside
⦁ Children eat and drink in a sitting position at the table (no walking around with food/drink)
⦁ Money, Gum & Candy is not allowed to be brought to Day Care
⦁ Etc.
Grievance Procedure
If a problem exists, I want it corrected as quickly as possible. This can only be achieved if it is identified immediately. Parents/Guardians with concerns should discuss them with me (not my staff).
Confidentiality
All information given to Little World Day Care, Inc. to enroll your child(ren) will be kept confidential. No personal information will be discussed with any other person outside of Little World Day Care, Inc.
Substitute Care Arrangements
Should I need to be away from the Day Care substitute care will be provided by a back-up caregiver.
If in the event of an emergency if a back-up caregiver cannot be located, parents will be called to pick up their child(ren).
Please note: Parents are responsible for providing their own back up care for illness, holidays, provider's vacations, provider's illnesses, emergency and personal days. I/Staff will not be responsible for providing back up caregivers.
Resources
We have different kind of resources about development, illnesses, vaccinations, sleeping habits, breastfeeding, activities, etc. We also have phone numbers, addresses and information about Maine Dep. of Health and Human Services, Taxes, WIC Program, Unemployment, Career Centers, Legal Services, Family Crisis Assistance Program, Maine Care, etc.
There are also resource books available for you. If you would like to borrow a book, there is a $10 deposit per book.
Termination of Enrollment
Enrollment will be considered terminated if:
⦁ I receive a written-3-week- notice of withdrawal (21 days)
The effective date on this notice is the upcoming Monday, if given any other day than a Monday. The Parent Fee is due by or on those Monday mornings, regardless that you bring your child to Day Care or not. Payments made after that, will incur a $15 Late Fee for each day after.
⦁ Payment is delinquent beyond the 5th day of the week
⦁ The payments fail to comply with this agreement, the Policy Handbook, or any other rules of the Day Care
⦁ I am/We are unable to meet the needs of the child, or that it is not in the best interest for me/us to have the child continue in attendance
⦁ There is a serious illness or death of the child
Please note: In case of non-payment, legal action may be taken, and the parents/legal guardians will be responsible for all legal fees incurred.
I retain the sole right and responsibility to determine any disputed factual matters regarding termination of enrollment.
Fundraiser
At least once a year, we will have a Fundraiser, which will be used towards new toys, equipment, arts/crafts, etc.
Change to the Policy Handbook
I may change any policy contained in the Policy Handbook. Parents will receive a copy of the updated Policy Handbook distributed to children's mailboxes.
A copy of the Policy Handbook is posted on the porch as well.
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