Imaginations Learning
Academy
12513 Darby Avenue
Orlando, Florida 32837
(407) 859-5597
Parent Handbook
January-December, 2002
~Absences~
There will be no refunds or price adjustments made
for days missed due to illness, holidays, or parent/provider days off. A place has been reserved for each child
that cannot be filled on a short-term basis.
You are paying for a premium slot in my program, and therefore payment
must be made to maintain that standing.
Notifying the provider at least one half hour prior your child’s scheduled arrival time is required in the event that your child will be out sick.
~Arrivals~
When your child arrives each day, you will be responsible for signing them in. I will not assume responsibility for your child until you have done so. You will also need to deposit your child’s belongings into his/her cubby prior to your departure.
Children should arrive at the program clean and fed (unless arriving just before a mealtime); I will try my best to send your child home in the same manner.
Please arrive at my home within 15 minutes of your scheduled drop-off time. If you will be dropping off more than 20 minutes after this time, please call to let me know so that I may proceed with the day’s activities. Children who arrive during the scheduled naptime will be expected to remain quiet until the rest period is over, so that others will not be disrupted from their naps.
If you know that your child experiences separation anxiety during drop-off, please make your stay brief! The more you prolong the departure, the more difficult you make the separation for you and your child. A smile, goodbye kiss, and reassuring statement that you will be back are all that are necessary. In my experience, children become quickly involved in play activities once the parent is gone.
~Celebrations~
Because
of the cultural and religious differences among families enrolled in the
program, children who attend Imaginations Learning Academy will not engage in
holiday or birthday celebrations during the year. Instead, the children will engage in themed celebrations based on
our curriculum. All parents are welcome
and encouraged to participate in any way possible, as advanced notice will be
given of upcoming class parties.
~Clothing~
Here
at Imaginations, we like to have fun!
Having fun involves outdoor play and sometimes activities that are
messy. Therefore, children should be
appropriately dressed. Clothing should
be comfortable and seasonally appropriate for outdoor play. Make sure to include hats, mittens, and
coats for cold weather. Sneakers
should be worn at all times and they must be slip-on or Velcro type closure. Only children who are aware of how to tie
their own shoes may wear lace-up sneakers.
Absolutely no sandals may be worn to childcare. Please do not dress your child in nice
clothing and expect them to remain spotless throughout the day. You will be expected to supply bibs for your
child to keep food stains to a minimum.
Please label all of your child’s clothing items.
~Communication~
Communication
between parents and the provider is essential if your child is to
receive consistent, nurturing care. When I accept a new family into my program,
I like to be sure that we can openly communicate any questions or concerns that
may arise. I welcome questions,
feedback, or discussions of any kind that would result in a positive outcome
for the child, as long as the issue is posed in a respectful manner. Sensitive
issues will be discussed outside of regular hours either by telephone or
conference. Please feel free to call me
between 7:30am and 8:30pm to discuss problems or concerns. Any information you
share with me will remain strictly confidential.
Conferences
will be scheduled as routine parts of your child’s program, however, both the
parent and provider may request one at any time if the need arises.
Imaginations
publishes a monthly newsletter that explains some of the activities we are
doing for the month, the current curriculum, themes, events, provider days off,
and other pertinent or fun information that may be of interest to you. You are always welcome to contribute to the
newsletter.
Parents
of infants will receive a daily report that will include information concerning
feedings, diaper changes, temperament, and things to remember. Toddler parents will also receive a daily
note. It will include things to remember, rest schedule, activities,
temperament, and meals.
~Curriculum~
Imaginations Learning Academy is keenly
interested in the healthy development of our young ones. It is for this reason that we have
implemented the “Creative Curriculum for Infants and Toddlers” into our
program. ILA is committed to offering a
high-quality program for infants and toddlers and their families, and our
curriculum will help to build a firm foundation for future learning.
The
curriculum is not a rigorous academic program, as young
children learn best from participating in and observing the environment around
them. We will utilize a variety of experiences that range from looking for bugs
in the backyard and watching birds build their nests, to making snacks and
baking cookies. They may also include
small chores like watering plants and clearing the table after meals. These types of activities nurture a sense of
well being and belonging in children, and contribute dramatically towards the
development of self-esteem.
The
program will also cover colors, shapes, numbers, letters, pre-math skills,
science skills, and more! The
goal of these activities is to have fun, and provide a little extra learning
stimulation for the older children, and prepare them for entry into
Preschool. Out-door play, free play,
children's videos and favorite children's television programs are some of the
more flexible activities we have. Our structured activities will include the use of
regular reading times, arts and crafts, and musical activities. In
addition to this fun curriculum, the children will enjoy learning through various
types of play (puzzles, blocks, dress-up, sand, water, etc.)
~Daily Schedule~
Infants and toddlers enjoy a structured schedule
that allows for some flexibility. A
schedule helps the day run smoothly, allows children to anticipate coming
events, and aids in achieving a variety of goals. We will adhere to our schedule to the best of our ability,
keeping in mind that anything can happen when small children are involved. There will be times, however, when we will
have to make adjustments to the schedule.
Infants will eat and sleep when they indicate that they are hungry or
tired.
We appreciate families considering our schedule
when picking up or dropping off their children. When arrivals or departures must occur during quiet time, please
take note of the fact that children may be sleeping and respond accordingly. A
copy of our daily schedule is posted on the parent information board.
~Departures~
Upon your arrival, your child must be signed
out of ILA. You will also need to
collect their belongings, check your child’s folder, and check the parent
bulletin board for updated information.
Your child will only be released to you or to
persons whose names are on your emergency information card. Under no
circumstances will anyone else be allowed to pick up your child unless I have
direct permission from you, either by note or telephone. Identification is required in such instances
(Driver’s License, State ID card, etc.).
Please be brief at departure time! When two authority figures are in the same
room, children are naturally inclined to test the boundaries. Show them that you respect both my rules and
me by reminding them that the rules still apply even while you are here. I expect parents to enforce the house rules,
but if you do not, I will remind the child that their behavior is inappropriate
and take action to correct it if needed.
Should you arrive late to pick up your child,
there will be a late fee of $3 per 15 minutes (per child), beginning one minute
past your scheduled pick-up time.
Please observe your designated pick-up time accordingly.
Please
don't expect my home or your child to be perfectly clean at pickup time.
We do lots of activities that are messy and will do our best to maintain
cleanliness and order, but the fun and the well being of the children will
always take precedence over cleaning.
~Discipline~
I
use positive methods of discipline (redirection, explaining appropriate
behaviors, time-out to regain control).
I do not punish children for behaving as children. The rules the children must follow while in
my home are: *use quiet voices while
inside, *walk while inside, *speak in a polite manner to others, *use words to
express yourself (no hitting, whining, biting, etc. are allowed), *respect
people and property, and *follow directions. The children are
explained the rules of the program frequently, so they are all familiar with
the guidelines. Please keep in mind
that there WILL be disagreements between children. Young children, who are not adept at communication, have a hard
time expressing their feelings.
Sometimes they hit, throw toys, bite, etc. I will try to prevent problems, redirect when appropriate,
discuss inappropriate behavior, encourage making amends when offense involves
another person, and sometimes withdraw privileges based on the principle of "natural
consequences". Under NO
CIRCUMSTANCES will there be any physical abuse, verbal abuse, or name calling used. Neither food nor sleep will ever be withheld
from a child as a means of punishment.
If a discipline problem arises that does not
respond to the above-mentioned techniques, I will hold a conference with
the parents. Together, we will try to find a solution. If the problem continues, other arrangements
for the care of the child will have to be made, for the safety and well being
of all. If this is the case, it is
considered an emergency termination, and no monies will be refunded.
~Emergency Evacuation Plan~
In
the event of a fire or other emergency requiring evacuation of the childcare home,
your children and I will follow the posted Emergency Evacuation Plan. The children will be quickly directed to the
nearest emergency exit, and encouraged to remain calm. Should it be necessary for us to leave the
property, you will be notified of the location as soon as possible so that you
may quickly arrive to pick your child up.
~Enforcement of Childcare Agreement~
Failure
to exercise any right under this Agreement/Contract does not constitute a
waiver of that right or any other right at any time. If any provision of this
Agreement/Contract is held to be invalid or unenforceable, the rest of the
Agreement/Contract will remain in effect.
~Enrollment Forms~
The following forms must be completely filled
out, signed, and returned before I can assume the responsibility of caring for
your child. There are NO EXCEPTIONS to
this guideline. This helps to ensure
that your child will get the very best care possible from me. All forms will be updated on January 1 of
each year, regardless of your enrollment date.
You are required to keep me informed of any change in addresses,
telephone numbers, or other pertinent information listed on any/all of the
these forms.
The forms are as follows:
Application
Character Analysis Form
Child Biography Form
Contract
for Childcare Services
Emergency Consent Form
Enrollment Form
Handbook Acknowledgement Form
Holidays & Religious Activities Form
Immunization Record
Medication
Release Form
Permissions
Form
~Fees~
A
yearly supply fee equal to $25 per child will be required upon enrollment in
the childcare program. These monies
help to pay for various supplies that the children will use throughout the
year. After the initial payment, this
fee will be due each January and August.
A
late fee equal to $3 per fifteen minutes (per child) will be charged for late
pick-ups and early drop-offs. (1-15
minutes early or tardy=$3 additional fee per child; 16-30 minutes early or
tardy=$6 additional fee per child, etc.)
This fee is due along with the upcoming week’s tuition. Habitual tardiness or earliness will result
in termination. Please observe your contracted drop-off/pick-up times.
Full
tuition payments are due and expected each week, regardless of attendance. Timely payments help to insure your child’s
space in the program. If tuition is not
paid by 6 p.m. each Friday, a late fee of $5 per day (including Saturday and
Sunday), per child, will be assessed until the date received. If tuition is not
received by your scheduled drop-off time on Monday, your child will be subject
to suspension from the program until the outstanding balance is paid in
full. All accounts must be current in
order to continue care for the following week. (See Tuition Payments.) Repeated late payments are grounds for
immediate termination.
~Field Trips~
Children
enrolled at Imaginations Learning Academy may participate in field trips at
various times throughout the year. Parent volunteers are welcome and
appreciated. Notice of the field trips will be given and posted on the bulletin
board and in the newsletter. Occasionally, there may be fees related to the
trips to cover entry, transportation, etc. I will take all reasonable
precautions when transporting the children. The parents will be responsible for
providing a car seat. If you do not want your child to participate, you will
need to find alternate childcare for the day of the field trip; however, full
tuition payments are due and expected.
~Handbooks and Contracts~
There may be a revision to this handbook and
the accompanying contract each year. Each
family will sign a new and updated contract at least once each year. The previous contract will then become
obsolete. The provider reserves the
right to make changes in rates and policies as deemed necessary. You will
be notified in writing of any changes that may occur. A minimum of 30 day’s notice of any changes will be given. It is your responsibility to know what is
contained in both the handbook and contract, as it pertains to the care of your
child.
~Holidays and Vacations~
Although very rewarding, childcare is also a
very high-stress occupation. In order for me to be the best provider that I can
be, I will need time to relax with my family, accomplish household or childcare
projects, or attend training seminars/conferences. The following is a list of the paid days off that I will
be taking each year:
New Year’s Eve (close at 1pm)
New Year's Day
Christ’s Memorial
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veteran’s Day
Thanksgiving Day and the day after
Christmas Day
Personal/Sick Days-5
Vacation Days-5
NOTE:
Payment for provider vacation days, provider holidays, and provider
personal/sick days are equal to your full weekly tuition rate. No less than two
weeks advance notice will be given of the impending vacation or holiday, unless
they are used for emergency purposes.
Each
family is entitled to a maximum of 10 vacation days per year. Vacation days are defined as the number of
days your child is contracted to be here each week x two. These vacation days
may only be taken after your child has been enrolled in the program for 90
days. I will notify you when your child
is eligible for vacation leave, and how much vacation time they are eligible
for. Payment for family vacation is
equal to half your regular tuition rate, required to hold your slot during such
an absence. Vacation days may be taken
in single increments, however they may not be used in lieu of paid holidays,
they may not be used during provider vacation, they may not be used for days
your child is in attendance, they may not be applied to your last two weeks of
care, they may not be applied to outstanding childcare debts (tardy tuition
fees, returned checks fees, etc.), and cannot be carried over from year to
year. A minimum of two weeks written
notice is required prior to taking vacation leave. NO EXCEPTIONS! An
accurate record of used vacation days will be kept in your child’s file,
however the provider will not be responsible for reminding parents of available
vacation days.
~Hours of Operation~
Normal hours of operation are from 7:00am to
6:00pm on Monday/Wednesday/Friday, and from 7:00am to 5:30pm on Tuesday &
Thursday, unless other arrangements have been agreed upon.
I offer both full and part-time care. Of course, full-time positions are preferred
over part-time positions. Part-time
rates are higher, and I reserve the right to terminate a part-time position if the position
can be filled with a full-time family.
I
maintain an open door policy for parents during childcare hours. This means that parents are always welcome
to call, pick up their children early, or just stop in for a brief visit
when in the area. Our open door policy
does NOT mean that our doors will be kept unlocked. I believe that it is
extremely important to keep the doors locked for the safety of the
children. I do not want unwanted or
unexpected visitors to enter without our permission or knowledge. I also do not want little ones leaving the
house unsupervised.
Please
make note that I cannot always hear the door when we are outside, therefore a
call that you are coming always enables me to listen for the door. I would appreciate your taking into
consideration our schedule when dropping in or calling, and remember that
visitors usually cause children to react in an excited manner that does not
normally occur when I am alone with the children. If you call during the day, please be aware that I may be busy
with the children and may not be able to answer the phone, but I will return
your call at my earliest convenience.
~House Rules
~
There
are certain rules that all children will be taught and expected to follow. This
is for the safety and well being of everyone.
No smoking is permitted on the premises. Children and families are
welcome only in any areas of the home that are used for childcare
purposes. My child is expected to keep
any toys that she is not prepared to share, in her room, away from the other
children. Therefore, children and families are not permitted in the bedrooms,
except when they are in use for napping.
There
will be no running permitted in the house. Hitting, pushing, biting,
grabbing, kicking, spitting, or pinching children/adults will NOT be
allowed. No standing or climbing on chairs, tables, or furniture.
There will be no use of obscene, derogatory or disrespectful language. All food and drinks must be consumed at the
table. Children are not permitted to
lift, and/or carry other children while in my home or on my property. Respectful treatment of other people and all
property, toys, and furniture is expected. Willful destruction of
property will be charged to the parent at the cost to replace the item.
Please support me in the enforcement of these rules, in order to create a
better environment for all.
~Hygiene~
We do our best to maintain strict cleanliness
and hygiene standards. Children's hands are washed before and after
meals, coming in from outside and after toileting. We use paper towels for drying hands, so children do not have to
use the same towel. I wash my hands
frequently, and also use antibacterial gel.
Infants sleep in separate cribs with clean sheets used only by
them. Beginning at age 2 washable nap mats are used,
and each child has a separate nap mat. Blankets and pillows used for
naptime will be sent home each Friday for laundering (unless soiled, then they
will be sent home as needed), and should be brought back clean on Monday. The
mats are cleaned daily with a Clorox solution.
Children use separate cups, plates, bowls and
eating utensils that have been washed in the dishwasher and dried on the heat
setting. High chair trays and tables are cleaned with a Clorox solution after
each use.
~Illness~
Due
to my concern for all of the children enrolled in my program, there are certain
guidelines that I require all families to observe. The health and well being of
all of the children attending ILA is of the utmost importance to me. It is for
the protection of the children that I must insist on a strict adherence to this
Health Policy. Please read it carefully.
Even
with all our precautions, children do get sick and or hurt. In some cases, if
your child needs to be seen by a doctor, you will be required to submit a
signed report from your doctor before your child can return to the program.
This is to ensure that a child does not return to ILA when he or she may be in
danger of exposing someone else to an illness. Some contagious illnesses are no
longer contagious after the child has been on medication for 24 hours.
There
are a number of immunizations required by law that your child must receive
before entrance into my program. Upon application for enrollment you will be
asked to submit your child’s current immunization record. NO EXCEPTIONS! You will be informed of any immunizations
that will be needed before your child begins the program.
Children with minor illness may attend the program at the provider's
discretion. It is important to realize that if a child is unable to
participate in the normal routine, or needs care other than that which I can
provide without neglecting the others in my care, that child must stay at home.
I know we both agree that there are times when a child needs to be with the
parent for both physical and emotional comfort.
There
are also some illnesses that, by law, exclude the child from attending my
program. Some of these illnesses are, but not limited to:
* Conjunctivitis * Diarrhea* Impetigo * Chicken Pox *Hepatitis A * Scarlet
Fever* Scabies * Lice* Ringworm * Strep Throat* Pink Eye
When
a child has certain symptoms, he should be kept at home. Some of these are:
~FEVER~
A fever is a sign that the body is fighting something. The importance of a
raised temperature depends on what is causing the fever. A temp of 101 degrees
or higher means a child should stay at home. In the event of this type of
temperature, the child should not come to ILA until the temp has been down for
24 hours without the aid of a fever reducing medication such as Tylenol. If
your child awakens with a high temperature and you administer a fever reducer,
this generally only lasts a few hours and I will most likely have to call you
at work to come pick up your child. In the meantime, the other children have
possibly been exposed to an undiagnosed illness.
~VOMITING OR UPSET STOMACH~
A child who has been vomiting can easily spread germs. If your child vomits
while in my care, you will be expected to come immediately to remove your child
from my home. If you are not able to come as soon as you are called, please
arrange for someone else to come pick up your child. You will have a one-hour
window from the time called to pick up the child. The child must stay home until 24 hours have passed with no
vomiting episodes.
~DIARRHEA~
When a child has a single loose stool, he/she does not need to stay at home.
However, if a child has very runny stools that cannot be contained in a diaper,
or the child cannot reach the toilet in time, the stool may contaminate the
childcare setting and this child must remain at home. Please use your
discretion with this. If the child has diarrhea that's not contained, you will
be called to come pick up your child from the program.
~RUNNY NOSES~
Children with constant runny noses that are not caused by allergies may spread
germs everywhere. They may wipe their noses on their hands, and then rub them
on other children, toys and on surfaces. This is a difficult one to call.
Please keep in mind how you would feel if another parent brought their child to
ILA and exposed your healthy child. These situations will be handled on a case-by-case
basis. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated and expected. Also, once
the cold season starts, you will receive a notice to supply your child with a
box of tissues as needed.
Some
features that help to insure your child's health are:
*
No smoking on the premises (We are a non-smoking home).
* My health policy is strictly adhered to.
* Current immunizations are required.
* Good hygiene is stressed at all times.
* Every attempt is made to keep toys and play areas sanitized.
* Napping is done on individual nap mats/cribs.
* Food preparation is done in a safe and hygienic manner.
* Hand washing is done before eating, after diapering, use of toilet, outside
play, touching body secretions, messy crafts or projects.
~Immunization
Procedures ~
All
immunizations records need to be kept up to date. It is now mandatory for
each parent to update all immunization and medical records annually with the
doctor. When you schedule your child for a doctor visit, please pick up
your child's records the same day so that your child’s file can be
updated. On average, most children do not suffer adverse reactions
to inoculations; however, none of us knows whether your child will be the one
that does. Therefore, when your child receives his/her shots, he/she cannot be
brought to ILA until 24 hours have passed. This means it would be a good
idea to schedule these appointments early in the morning, so that your child
can come back to the program the following day. If your child receives
his/her shot in the latter part of the day, he/she cannot return to ILA for two
days (thus the 24 hour period).
~Meals and Snacks~
Once
your child begins to eat table foods, I will begin to serve him/her a
nutritious breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack. Children who arrive after mealtimes should be fed before they
arrive. Our mealtimes are as follows:
8:30
am– Breakfast
12:30
pm - Lunch
3:00
pm – PM Snack
Parents
of infants will need to provide all prepared formula/breast milk, cereal, baby
food, and juice. It is my belief that
infants should always be fed on demand.
If a parent requests a feeding schedule, we will need to discuss the
arrangements so that the needs of the child will be properly met. Written
feeding instructions are required for all infants that include type of
food/formula to be given, amount of food/formula/breast milk to be given, and
times food/formula/breast milk is to be given.
Parents
of toddlers should not send food or drink of any kind with their child unless
it has been requested. Parents of
children with special diets must supply all foods for their children. If your child has allergies, and requires a
modified diet, I must be notified of this in writing. A physician’s written instructions describing the foods the child
is unable to eat must also be submitted.
In this instance, I may require the parents/guardians to supply their
child’s meals and snacks.
I
never force a child to finish his/her food, but I do encourage each child to
try at least two bites of everything. A little of everything must be
eaten before seconds of anything will be given. If a child refuses to eat their meal, there will be no food
served until the next designated meal/snack time. I will not administer a
modified diet to your child. All eating
patterns will be communicated to parents.
If
your child has an allergy, I must be notified of this in writing. I will
need to have a physician’s written instructions describing any foods the child
is not permitted to eat. Parents will be required to supply their child’s
meals and snacks in this instance.
~Medical Emergencies~
I
make every effort to ensure the safety of your child while in my care through
both proper supervision and childproofing. Unfortunately, accidents may still
occur. Minor injuries, such as bumps or scrapes, will receive the appropriate
first aid treatment, and you will be notified at pickup. In the case of a serious injury or illness,
9-1-1 will be called and your child will be transported to the hospital listed
on your child’s information card. You
will be notified immediately! If my
back up arrives in time, I will accompany your child to the emergency facility.
In any case, you will be asked to meet your child there. You or your family insurance is
responsible for any costs that may arise from any medical treatment, including
emergency transportation, if required. Thus, if you are not going to be at
your usual place of employment, or at home, please make sure that I have a
number where you can be reached. If I
cannot reach either parent, I will call the emergency contact listed on your
child's information card to make the medical decisions for your child. The
first time a parent or emergency contact cannot be reached in an emergency, it
is grounds for immediate termination, and no monies will be refunded. The owner of Imaginations Learning
Academy, her employees, or family members will not be held liable for any
sickness or injury of the child/parent/guardian while on the premises or in the
company of the provider. (See Release.)
~Medications~
When
medication is to be given by the provider, the medication must be in its
original container, clearly labeled by the pharmacy (including child’s name and
instructions for use), and given directly to the provider. Please do not
leave medication of any kind in a diaper bag or the child's cubby.
All
prescription drugs to be administered by the provider must have been given to
the child for at least 24 hours without an adverse reaction (prior to their
arrival to the program). A medication permission form is required by the
state when dispensing prescription medications. Please be prepared to fill out
this form at drop-off. I cannot give prescription meds of any kind without one.
Please
provide a medicine spoon or dropper with any medication sent with your
child. It would be most helpful to inform the provider of any possible
side effects from the medications your child is taking. All parents must
inform me if your child has been given any medication (prescription or
non-prescription) at home prior to arrival at ILA and indicate the time that
the medicine was administered.
~Mission
Statement~
My
goal is to provide all of the children in my care a clean, safe, loving home
environment where they are provided opportunities to engage in developmental
activities according to their age, interests, talents, and needs. Such a non-competitive atmosphere helps to
foster independent thinking, risk-taking, and creativity. Respect toward self,
others and the environment will be emphasized. I believe in the value of
both structured and flexible schedules, and that my most important priority is
for the children in my care to have FUN while playing and learning!
~Naps/Quiet Time~
There
will be a two-hour nap/rest period each day after lunch. All children
under the age of five must nap for at least one hour, as required by Florida
law. Rest time gives everyone a
much-needed break during the day. Without rest time, some children are
argumentative in the afternoon, short-tempered with others, and not very happy
when they go home in the evening.
Infants have varied rest schedules, which will be accommodated. All infants will rest as needed. You are welcome to provide comfort items for
your child for use during their rest period. Visits during this period are not
recommended, as they can be disturbing.
~NSF Checks~
Should your check be returned to me due to
insufficient funds, a fee of $30 will be charged as a result of the returned
check. Childcare services will be suspended immediately until full tuition
payment and additional fees have been made in cash. In addition, I will
only accept cash as payment for your child’s tuition from that point forward.
~Parental Involvement~
Parents
are welcome and encouraged to be a part of their child’s everyday learning
experiences while here at ILA. This can
be accomplished by: *lending or
donating objects for units of study, *helping your child prepare for "show
and tell" sessions, *providing treats or other items for class parties,
*supporting fund-raising efforts, *contributing to our monthly newsletter,
*chaperoning on field trips, and much more. By staying involved in the
program, you show your child that you value his/her experiences and it helps to
form a stronger working relationship between the parent and provider.
~Personal Belongings~
Toys
from home should not be brought to ILA.
Little ones have a difficult time learning the concept of sharing with
others, and it is even harder when their own special toys are involved.
My child will be expected to keep her personal toys in an area where the other
children do not have access. If toys are brought from home, please note
that they may be put away if they are the cause of disagreements among the
children. The only exception to this
policy will be favorite toy items used for naptime only (such as stuffed animals), and
items requested for show and tell activities. I will not be responsible
for any loss or damage of unauthorized personal items brought into the
home.
~Playtimes~
Playing
Indoors: I provide a variety of age-appropriate toys for the purpose of indoor
play. The toys may
be rotated or placed temporarily out of use so that the children do not become
bored with the selection. Toddlers have
yet to develop their organizational skills and can become 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 toys are
strewn about, 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.
Playing Outdoors: We will be playing outdoors
every day that the weather permits.
Please make sure that your child is dressed appropriately (see
Clothing/Attire section) for outdoor play at all times. Our activities will include walks, going to
the playground, water play (sprinkler in summer), bike/toy riding and other
adventures. During the spring and fall,
our outdoor play will probably range from 2 to 3 hours per day. In the winter and summer, however, we may
only be out for 45 to 90 minutes per day.
~Probation Period~
The
first three weeks of your child's enrollment will be considered a trial
period. This allows both your family and mine to further determine the
suitability of the arrangements. During
this time the parent or provider may terminate the childcare agreement with 48
hours notice. Once the probation period is completed, two weeks written
notice is required for termination of the childcare agreement (see Termination
Policy).
~Provider Illness~
Caring
for many small children leaves my family and I at great risk for becoming ill.
I do occasionally have to close ILA due to an illness in the family. It is the parent’s
responsibility to find other childcare arrangements. Please have
a back-up plan ready. On occasions where I need to leave for an
appointment or emergency, my husband (Christopher), mother (Faye), or
substitute (Anna) have been authorized by the Department of Children &
Families to fill in.
~Release Of
Damages~
The
parent/guardian agrees not to hold the owner, employees, volunteers, or family
members of Imaginations Learning Academy liable for any injury to, or illness
of you or your child, nor shall we be held responsible for any damage that may
occur to you or your child’s property while in the care of the provider.
The
provider will do her best to maintain proper health and safety standards in the
home and to ensure proper order.
However, in the event your child intentionally (or willfully) causes
damage to any property in the home through destruction or unnecessary
roughness, the parent/guardian will be responsible for any and all repair or
replacement costs for the item(s).
~Security Deposits~
A
non-refundable security deposit equal to one week’s tuition plus the supply fee
is required to reserve a space in the program for your child. The deposit
is due when the parent commits to their child occupying a space for care,
however, the space will be considered open until this fee is paid.
The deposit will be credited towards your child’s last week of tuition for the
program. The word credited is used
because your tuition rate may be higher upon exiting the program, which would leave
you with a balance due the provider.
In
the event that you do not bring your child to ILA by the agreed upon date, your
position will be forfeited and your deposit is non-refundable. In addition, if you fail to give two week's
notice for termination of childcare services, the deposit will be forfeited.
~Sibling
Discounts~
There
are currently no multi-family discounts because of my guarantee of a small
group environment, consisting of up to six children only. My low adult-to-child ratio allows for
higher levels of personalized attention for every child in my care.
~Substitutes~
Occasionally
the provider may find it necessary to leave the home for a portion of the day.
A qualified substitute will be provided in this instance, and parents will be
informed in advance whenever possible.
Christopher Munford (my husband), and Faye Johnson (my mother), have
both been approved by the State of Florida as back-up providers for my
childcare program. In the case of my
absence, these are the only persons authorized to care for your child.
~Supplies~
Parents
are responsible for supplying the following daily (be sure to label
them!):
Infants-
*prepared formula/breast milk, *bottles, diapers, *wipes, *powder/ointment,
*pain reliever, *Mylicon drops, *Orajel, *blanket, *burp cloths, *pacifier,
*changing pad, *bibs, *3 complete changes of clothing.
Toddlers-*diapers,
*wipes, *powder/ointment, *pain reliever, *blanket (for naps), *pacifier (if
used), *changing pad, *bibs, *3 complete changes of clothing, *hand sanitizer.
Parents
are responsible for supplying the following items as needed:
Infants-*cereal,
*juice, *baby food, *little swimmers (summertime), *swimsuit, *towel,
*sunscreen, *Kleenex
Toddlers-*little
swimmers (summertime), *swimsuit, *towel, *sunscreen, *Kleenex, *wet ones.
~Termination~
Parents
must give a two-week notice (14 calendar days) when terminating childcare
services. Any monies due for those two weeks will be paid
in advance at the time of written notification. The last two weeks will be paid in full, regardless of whether
or not the child is in attendance. If two week’s notice is not
given, the parent forfeits the deposit. Two week’s tuition fees may be paid in
lieu of providing a two-week notice.
The provider reserves the right to terminate for any of the following reasons, though not solely limited to:
*Failure
to pay tuition, *Failure to complete the required forms, *Lack
of parental cooperation, *Unable to reach the parent or emergency contact in
the event of an emergency, *Lack of compliance with Parent Handbook
regulations, *Disrespectful behavior exhibited towards provider, staff, or
family members, *Parent/guardian issues false verbal or written statements to
the provider. In these instances, no
monies will be refunded.
*Failure of child to adjust to the program
after a reasonable amount of time, *Provider inability to care for the child’s
needs, *Serious illness of child or provider. In these instances, the
provider may refund monies owed to the parent.
Note: The provider will give as much written notice as
possible when terminating childcare services. However, the childcare contract
is subject to termination without prior notification in the event of any breach
of the agreement by parents or guardians or in the event that the child becomes
disruptive or ungovernable in the opinion of the provider. Termination notices will not be accepted
from any parent/guardian during the provider or parent’s absence due to
vacation.
~Toilet Training~
The
most ideal setting for toilet training is probably at home for a week or two of
one on one time with Mom and/or Dad. But for most parents, that ideal
situation is not feasible. Therefore, for both practical and sanitation
reasons, I have adopted the following criteria regarding training:
Signs
of Readiness: Your child will not begin training until
they can:
1.
Recognize
that s/he is wet or soiled
2.
Pull
pants/shorts up and down, as well as pull-ups or cloth training pants
3.
Display
willingness to use the toilet.
Frequency: Your child will be helped and encouraged to use the toilet at
reasonable intervals (mid-morning, after lunch, after napping, etc…), but I do
not believe in taking a child to the bathroom every hour on the hour. Such behavior does not help a child to learn
bladder or bowel control.
Clothing: While in training, your child must wear training clothes. Training clothes are described as:
1.
Clothing
that is easy to pull on and off (thick sweatpants or other elastic waist pants
or shorts that are loose fitting and absorbent)
2.
No
buttons, snaps, zippers, jumpers, belts, overalls, long shirts/dresses, etc.
(they have enough to master without adding unbuttoning, unsnapping, etc to the
list)
3.
Please
provide at least five changes of clothing (including socks and training pants)
daily during the training process. If using cloth-training pants, plastic
coverings are required to contain leaks in case of accidents.
Accidents: In a childcare setting, your child is more easily distracted, making
it more difficult for him/her to make it to the bathroom. Should an accident occur:
1.
S/he
will need to return to training pants or pull-ups until s/he is dry for at
least one week at daycare.
2.
Your
child must be dry for at least two weeks before wearing underwear without
protection.
I
will not attempt to work with your child on toilet training until a good
routine has been established at home first! I require that your child be acquainted with the potty for at
least two weeks, and engaged in successful potty sessions at least five times
during that time period. (Successful
potty sessions means that your child actually made poop or pee on the potty.)
I
will be more than happy to work with parents on toilet training, with
the understanding that this is a partnership.
If a child is not ready for this major milestone, it can be a very
unpleasant situation for everyone involved (namely the child). It may be necessary and even helpful to quit
toilet training for a period of a week or two, and then go back to it when the
child is not discouraged or unenthusiastic.
After all, it has to be their accomplishment!
Note: If you are not emotionally or physically ready to begin toilet
training, it is best to wait until you can give it your full attention. Your child will not be successful if you are
not putting in the time and effort required to train them.
~Tuition Payments~
Your
specific weekly rate will be outlined in your Contract and Rate Agreement. Tuition payments are due on Friday morning,
prior to the week of care. Cash, check or money orders, made payable to Melanie
Munford, are acceptable forms of payment. Tuition rates are based on
hours contracted, and will therefore not be prorated. A late fee of $5 per day, including Saturday and Sunday, will be
assessed for tuition payments not received by 6pm Friday evening. NO EXCEPTIONS! Repeated late payments will result in termination of care. Children will not be admitted into the
program if tuition payments are not kept current. The provider reserves the right to change tuition rates with a
30-day written notice.
~Weather~
My
home will be open for childcare when Orange County Public Schools are closed
due to inclement weather, unless I inform you that conditions make it too
dangerous for me to care for children (hurricane approaching, tropical storm
warnings, etc.). When I am open for care, payments will be due and
expected. If I close due to dangerous weather conditions on a childcare
day, you may be required to pay me for that day if I choose to use a personal
day to cover the closure.