Days/Hours of Operation:
Regular child care is available Monday through Friday with the exception of paid holiday closings.
Parents are required to drop off and pick up their children between 7am and 6pm. Extended Care available.
I strongly encourage you to drop off your child by 8:30 to ensure they have a morning snack and are able to participate in Circle Time. If your child will be late for AM Snack, please call me if you would like me to save it for their arrival. I also recommend picking up your child after 4:30 so they can enjoy a snack before heading home and participate in Craft Time.
Parent can provide me with approximate arrival and pick up times in order for me to be better prepared.
Drop-In Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9am-4pm if space is available. Arrangements must be made 1 business day prior to care.
Personal Day Closings: 5 paid personal days per year; all other personal days will be credited at $40/day, if any occur. Personal Days will be used to attend appointments or in event of illness.
Vacation Closings: 10 paid vacation days per year; all other vacation days will be credited at $40/day, if any occur. Please respect that when my daycare is closed for vacation, I am taking this time to rest and to be with my family or just to catch up on home duties. I take my job very seriously and consider this to be a legitimate long term career. In order to accomplish this, I need this time out to maintain the energy level it takes to give your child the quality care he/she deserves.
Holiday Closings: New Year’s Eve (half day), New Year’s Day, Family Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Civic Holiday, Labour Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. A Lieu Day will be taken if a Holiday falls on a weekend. Child care services can be arranged for an additional fee. A minimum of 2 weeks’ notice must be provided. Care is not available for religious holidays.
Illness and Emergencies: If illness or other emergencies should arise during child care hours every attempt will be made to have a substitute provider care for your child so that I can remain open for child care. If substitute care is not available you will receive a phone call to pick up your child. Whenever possible medical and personal appointments will be made after child care hours however, if I must use child care hours to attend appointments every attempt will be made to have a substitute provider care. If a substitute is not available, I will have to close my child care home.
I do reserve the right to close for any reason in which I cannot operate in a safe manner. i.e. loss of electricity, water, heat, and medical epidemics. Child care fees are paid for any of these occurrences.
Early Pick Up: I will do my best to ensure personal affairs are taken care of outside of daycare hours but occasionally appointments or meetings will conflict with closing time. Early pick up will be requested at least two business days prior, unless it is urgent. If you are unable to pick up your child earlier, please try to make arrangements with your emergency contacts or another family. If no one is available, there might be the option of leaving your child in the care of my personal babysitter, however she is a minor and you will need to sign a waiver and you will have to pay additional fees directly to her. She reserves the right to decline if she feels she will not be able provide safe care.
Early Drop Off: Any care needed prior to my normal opening time will need be scheduled one business day prior. There will be a charge of $5.00 per 15 minutes (or part of) for care prior to normal opening time. This payment will be added to your next payment even if you decide not to bring the child early.
Late Pick Up: I’m sure you will agree, personal time is precious. My evenings tend to be quite busy with parenting responsibilities, cleaning and preparations for the following day. It is also the only time I have for appointments or meetings. I do understand that there may be an occasion of major traffic congestion or bad weather conditions causing a delay in your travel. If you have a cellular phone, please call or text me at least 15 minutes prior to your contracted pick-up time. If you communicate with me, I can give you a 15 minute grace period. If you are having a difficulties arriving before your contracted time on a regular basis, we can work out a contingency plan. Consistent tardiness could be cause for termination without notice or return of deposit. The late fee is $5 for each additional 15 minutes (or part of) past our agreed pick up time or grace period will be added to your next payment.
Fee Payment Guidelines: Child care fees are paid in advance – payable on the last Friday before the next month (eg fees for December 2013 will be due by November 29 2013) or every other Friday in advance (eg fees for December 2-16 2013 will be due by November 29 2013) Payment obligation is based on the hours and days outlined in your contract, not on actual attendance. There is no change in fee due to your child’s absences. In the case of your vacation or absence, please postdate your check for the upcoming date due and make payment before you leave. Post-dated checks can be provided in advance for up to 6 payments.
Late Payments: A $25 late payment fee (per child) applies for any payment not received on time. If payment is not received, an additional $10.00 fee per day will be charged, maximum $50. If payment is more than one week late, your child will not be permitted to return to child care until both the payment and the late fee are paid in full.
Payments: A personal check, cash or e-transfer will be accepted for payment, however if a check is returned for any reason and I incur any bank charges from the return of your check, those charges will be added to the following payment. Additionally because I am unable to use these funds my late fee for payment also applies. After 2 check returns, all further payments must be made by cash or e-transfer. Non-payment or consistent late payments is cause for termination immediately without 2 weeks’ notice or return of deposit.
A two week notice of any fee increase will be posted.
Tax Receipts: Receipts will be issued for Standard Fees only between January 1 and December 31 of each year. Extended care or late fees will not be included on receipts. Receipts will be available by January 31st for the previous year (eg receipts for 2013 will be available by January 31 2014).
Termination: Parents must provide two weeks written notice when they decide to terminate service. If notice is not given, I will not be able to return your deposit. I reserve the right to terminate service without two weeks’ notice or return of deposit under the following conditions: Consistent late payments, consistent tardiness or violation of gross misconduct policy. Before coming to this decision, I will meet with you to discuss the issue and we will work together to resolve the issue. If I am unable to continue to provide service, I will provide as much notice as possible, minimum of two weeks (unless under extreme conditions). Service will end once your child starts school as I do not provide before and after school care. Before and After School Daycare spots are very limited. I strongly recommend securing a spot or getting on a wait list as early as possible. Most daycares have an average wait list of 1-2 years and finding private care might be a better option.
Trial Period: There is a trial period of 4 weeks from the date child care begins. If the child care arrangements are not mutually satisfactory, either party can terminate this agreement with a 1 (one) day notice – any fees and deposit already paid are non-refundable.
Cleaning: At daycare we share everything, including germs. Throughout the day, I closely monitor the kids and if I see them put a toy in their mouth, it is removed from the play area as soon as they are done with it. The item is cleaned at a convenient moment and return to the play area. All toys, including play centers are thoroughly cleaned every weekend. The table is cleaned before and after meals or structured activities. Floors are swept several times a day and mopped at the end of the day. Change table mat is cleaned in-between every change. All cleaning is done with a vinegar solution. Bedding supplied by me washed weekly with a homemade natural soap. Personal bedding is sent home to be washed minimum once per month or at parent's request.
Food and Kitchen Safety: All food is stored at appropriate temperatures and shelf date. All food is cooked and reheated to safe temperatures. A food thermometer is used. Special care is taken to avoid cross-contamination. All surfaces are cleaned with a vinegar solution. Food in cut into toddler appropriate sizes and small portions are given at a time to prevent "chipmunk cheeks" and choking hazards. Children are not allowed inside of the kitchen unless they remain seated away from cooking or prep areas. I have a special gated area just outside of the kitchen were the children can play as I prepare food. I follow safe kitchen practices such as keeping knives and sharp items out of reach and cooking on the back burners with handles turned away from the edge. All produce is thoroughly cleansed with a vinegar wash. Dirty Dozen produced will be purchased as organics whenever possible. Any imported or non-organic produce will be skinned if possible in order to reduce risks associated with use of agricultural chemicals.
Nutrition: Children are fed nutritious lunch and two snacks every day. The food will be homemade from fresh ingredients. Cakes, cookies (not listed on menu), and other “not so nutritious food” may be served during special events like birthday and holidays. Child with severe allergies or medical dietary restrictions will not be admitted in to my care. Lacto-Ovo Vegetarian options are available. Non-medical dietary restrictions (personal choice) can be discussed. Enrollment will be accepted if a mutual arrangement can be made.
Pets: We are a very animal-friendly home. Children help to care for our animals as a part of our program. We also spend time learning about them. Three small aquariums are permanently set up within the classroom. Children takes turns feeding the fish twice a day. We have two cats. They generally stay in other areas of the house during operating hours, but one is very social and likes to play with the kids for short periods of time. We have two budgies. Occasionally, I will bring their habitat into the classroom for observation and discussion. And lastly, we have a Jack Russell who will remain in outside of the daycare space. If all parents consent, the dog will have short occasional visits with the children. As an extra safety measure, the dog will wear a muzzle and will be leashed but she is a very sweet and gentle dog and is excellent with children.
Supplies: Parents provide milk if drinking full cups or bottle throughout the day (individual bags of milk must be labeled with child's name and expiry date), sippy cup/bottle (to be left at daycare), diapers, wipes, diaper ointments (i.e. zinc or Vaseline), blanket, pillow (if desired), comfort items and 1-2 changes of clothing (including shirt, pants/shorts, socks, underwear [if using], and seasonal items [hat, mittens, sweater etc.]). Sunscreen and insect repellent can also be supplied by parents if desired. All other supplies are provided by the daycare.
Donations: Donations are always welcomed. Items frequently needed are recyclables (egg cartons, toilet paper/paper towel rolls etc), construction paper, non-toxic washable paint, glue, full boxes of tissues, toilet paper and paper towels. Additional items such as food items (fresh produce, cereal, crackers, snack bars, pasta and rice) and any toys, puzzles, books, extra clothing or blankets in good condition are also welcomed.
Discipline: I express my disapproval (without attaching character). I state my expectations and show your child how to make amends. In extreme situations or after several attempts at redirection a child may be asked to sit out for an appropriate amount of time. At times a child may be having trouble making choices of their own and they just may need a couple of minutes to calm down and think about their choices. Sitting out is generally at the table where the child with either be asked to sit quietly or redirected with a quiet activity. If we are working at the table, the child will sit on the carpet. No physical discipline is ever used in my daycare.
Gross Misconduct: I will communicate to you immediately if your child is frequently and deliberately causing harm to others and/or is frequently and deliberately destructive. This behavior is unsafe and will not be allowed – immediate termination will ensue if the behavior persists. Additionally, parents must remain respectable at all times – in-person and through written contact. Disrespectful or controlling behavior or use of profane language (casually or aggressively) will result in immediate termination.
Substance Abuse: If a parent or caregiver arrives to pick up a child and they appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol (appearance/odor/demeanor etc), they will be confronted. I expect honestly. If I feel it is unsafe for the child to be in their care, I will call an emergency contact to pick up the child. Late fees will apply. The parent/caregiver will not be allowed to wait on the property. If they chose to leave with the child, I will contact the police and Children's Aid.
Injuries: I will supervise your child closely in an attempt to prevent injuries, but accidents resulting in injury do occur. I have been trained in first aid and CPR and will follow my training. If the injury is minor (requiring only a band-aid or ice) I will tell you about it when you pick up your child. You will be informed immediately via text message if your child has a head injury that results in a large bump or bruising. I will document all head injuries with a photo for my records. If an injury is serious, I will call you and may even suggest that you take your child to the doctor or emergency room. If an injury is very severe, I will call 911 for assistance before I call you. If I cannot reach you, I will call the emergency contacts listed on your “Child Information Card” (Please remember to keep this card up-to-date).
Potty Training; Potty training shouldn’t be rushed; it is important that your child is psychologically and physically ready for training. Children will be encouraged to use the toilet frequently throughout the day and will be taken to the bathroom upon request. Pull Ups and wipes must be provided by the parent/guardian during this transition period. No regular style training pants or underwear will be used until your child maintains 2 continuous weeks of bladder/bowel control; of course, if your child regresses after this 2 week period we will assess the next step.
Transportation/Outings: I will not be taking the children for outing using a personal vehicle. Local outings will be within walking distance or short public transit bus rides. A volunteer will assist with supervision with groups over 3 children. I would like to schedule 1-2 field trips per year. A chartered bus will be used for these outings.
Release of Children: It is important that I protect your child by ensuring that your child does not leave my home with a person you have not authorized on your “Child Information Card”. Please tell me when someone else that you have authorized on you “Child Information Card” will be picking up your child. Even if it is an emergency, I must have your permission to release your child to someone other than you. I will need the person’s name and a password, changed with each new pick-up. The person picking up your child will have to show me a photo ID and confirm the password before I will release your child from my care. Alternatively, if someone will be frequently picking up your child, we can arrange an in-person meeting and you can provide me with dates they will be picking up. To additionally ensure safety, you must call me from a phone number I have on file and will show on my call display. If using a blocked or unknown number, I will call you back to confirm.
I have to assume that both parents have the right to pick up your child, unless you give me a copy of a court order stating otherwise. We will need to discuss how I should handle the non-custodial parent who arrives to pick up your child. Without a copy of the court order, I cannot refuse a parent. If I have a court order and a non-custodial parent tries to pick up the child, I will immediately call the custodial parent. If the non-custodial parent leaves with the child, I will immediately call the police and report the situation. I will not place the other children at risk in a confrontation with the non-custodial parent.
It is very important to me that your child arrives home safely. Therefore, if the person who arrives to pick up your child appears intoxicated or otherwise incapable of bringing your child home safely, I will call the parent or emergency contact person listed on the “Child Information Card” to request their assistance. If the situation occurs a second time, it will be grounds for terminating my care of your child.
Car Seats: All children should be transported to and from child care in a car seat or child restraint if under 6 years old or 60 pound. For further clarification refer to the Ontario Law Regulations for children and seat belts and abide by that law for your child safety. I will not release your child if the person picking up your child does not have a properly installed/used car seat and your child falls into the car seat requirements.
Dress Code Policy: Remember your child will get dirty – stains and damages are very likely. Please send your child in play clothes. Light stains are acceptable, but clothing must be clean and in presentable condition for play. Children 2-3 years old will be taught and encouraged to dress themselves. Children over 3 should be able to dress themselves with minimal assistance required, including buttons, zippers and shoe straps (Velcro preferred). Please help them with this process by providing easy to use items. Please ensure your child arrives dressed in or with the following:
Spring/Fall
Sun-Safe and Sunscreen Policy: Will be used when the children will be outside for longer than 20 minutes between the months of May-October or whenever the weather is warm enough to be outdoors without a jacket/sweater/long sleeves
Insect Repellent Policy: Insect repellent with 10% deet will be used under the following conditions:
Child’s Health: All vaccines must be up to date. You are required to submit a copy of your child's immunization record for your child's file. If you have chosen not to vaccinate your child, a doctor’s note must be provided stating you have informed your doctor of your decision. Parent/guardian must complete a medical emergency card entitled “Child Information Card” and update as necessary. Your child cannot be admitted to daycare with symptoms of illness as specified below; unless written documentation from a licensed physician, or verbal (with written follow up) states the child has been diagnosed and poses no serious health risk to the child or to other children. Should your child have signs or symptoms requiring exclusion from the daycare he/she will be isolated and the parent/guardian or other authorized person by the parent will be notified immediately to pick up your child. There can be no exceptions since illness spreads quickly among children. In the event of my own children becoming ill, they will spend the day within the personal space of our home (bedrooms, den).
Please make other arrangements if your child is sick and respect my decision if I feel your child is too sick to be in child care. I am sympathetic to the difficulties of taking time off, so discretion will be used. I must protect the well-being of the other children and myself.
The symptoms of illness for possible exclusion shall include, but are not limited to any of the following…
A. The illness prevents your child from participating comfortably in the day care environment,
B. The illness results in a greater care need than I can provide without compromising the health and safety of the other children in my care
C. The child has any of the following conditions:
Any of the following communicable diseases must be also be reported to the division of public health
Diphtheria
German Measles
Hemophilus Influenza Disease
Measles (rubeola)
Bacterial (spinal) Meningitis
Mumps
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Rubella
Tuberculosis
Giardiasis
Hepatitis A
Salmonellosis
Shigellosis
Always inform your doctor at every sick visit that your child is in daycare so that he/she can approve in writing your child’s return to daycare.
If your child had an immunization update, please remember to provide me with a record of the immunization so that it can be attached to your child’s health appraisal.
Child’s Medication:
Due to anaphylaxic allergies in our household, penicillin, amoxicillin, other beta lactams medications and sulfonamides (sulfa) will not be allowed. If your child requires any of these medications, please adjust the dosage schedule so all administrations happen at home. Please exercise extremely caution when administrating before coming to daycare and ensure there is not any traces (no drops on clothes, wash hands and rinse out mouth). It is important to inform me if your child taking any of these medications.
1. A Medication Log must accompany ALL prescription or over the counter medicine. Over the counter medicine is usually given for short term health conditions; the average length of time is 5 days. Log must include:
Updated August 17 2017
Regular child care is available Monday through Friday with the exception of paid holiday closings.
Parents are required to drop off and pick up their children between 7am and 6pm. Extended Care available.
I strongly encourage you to drop off your child by 8:30 to ensure they have a morning snack and are able to participate in Circle Time. If your child will be late for AM Snack, please call me if you would like me to save it for their arrival. I also recommend picking up your child after 4:30 so they can enjoy a snack before heading home and participate in Craft Time.
Parent can provide me with approximate arrival and pick up times in order for me to be better prepared.
Drop-In Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9am-4pm if space is available. Arrangements must be made 1 business day prior to care.
Personal Day Closings: 5 paid personal days per year; all other personal days will be credited at $40/day, if any occur. Personal Days will be used to attend appointments or in event of illness.
Vacation Closings: 10 paid vacation days per year; all other vacation days will be credited at $40/day, if any occur. Please respect that when my daycare is closed for vacation, I am taking this time to rest and to be with my family or just to catch up on home duties. I take my job very seriously and consider this to be a legitimate long term career. In order to accomplish this, I need this time out to maintain the energy level it takes to give your child the quality care he/she deserves.
Holiday Closings: New Year’s Eve (half day), New Year’s Day, Family Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Civic Holiday, Labour Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. A Lieu Day will be taken if a Holiday falls on a weekend. Child care services can be arranged for an additional fee. A minimum of 2 weeks’ notice must be provided. Care is not available for religious holidays.
Illness and Emergencies: If illness or other emergencies should arise during child care hours every attempt will be made to have a substitute provider care for your child so that I can remain open for child care. If substitute care is not available you will receive a phone call to pick up your child. Whenever possible medical and personal appointments will be made after child care hours however, if I must use child care hours to attend appointments every attempt will be made to have a substitute provider care. If a substitute is not available, I will have to close my child care home.
I do reserve the right to close for any reason in which I cannot operate in a safe manner. i.e. loss of electricity, water, heat, and medical epidemics. Child care fees are paid for any of these occurrences.
Early Pick Up: I will do my best to ensure personal affairs are taken care of outside of daycare hours but occasionally appointments or meetings will conflict with closing time. Early pick up will be requested at least two business days prior, unless it is urgent. If you are unable to pick up your child earlier, please try to make arrangements with your emergency contacts or another family. If no one is available, there might be the option of leaving your child in the care of my personal babysitter, however she is a minor and you will need to sign a waiver and you will have to pay additional fees directly to her. She reserves the right to decline if she feels she will not be able provide safe care.
Early Drop Off: Any care needed prior to my normal opening time will need be scheduled one business day prior. There will be a charge of $5.00 per 15 minutes (or part of) for care prior to normal opening time. This payment will be added to your next payment even if you decide not to bring the child early.
Late Pick Up: I’m sure you will agree, personal time is precious. My evenings tend to be quite busy with parenting responsibilities, cleaning and preparations for the following day. It is also the only time I have for appointments or meetings. I do understand that there may be an occasion of major traffic congestion or bad weather conditions causing a delay in your travel. If you have a cellular phone, please call or text me at least 15 minutes prior to your contracted pick-up time. If you communicate with me, I can give you a 15 minute grace period. If you are having a difficulties arriving before your contracted time on a regular basis, we can work out a contingency plan. Consistent tardiness could be cause for termination without notice or return of deposit. The late fee is $5 for each additional 15 minutes (or part of) past our agreed pick up time or grace period will be added to your next payment.
Fee Payment Guidelines: Child care fees are paid in advance – payable on the last Friday before the next month (eg fees for December 2013 will be due by November 29 2013) or every other Friday in advance (eg fees for December 2-16 2013 will be due by November 29 2013) Payment obligation is based on the hours and days outlined in your contract, not on actual attendance. There is no change in fee due to your child’s absences. In the case of your vacation or absence, please postdate your check for the upcoming date due and make payment before you leave. Post-dated checks can be provided in advance for up to 6 payments.
Late Payments: A $25 late payment fee (per child) applies for any payment not received on time. If payment is not received, an additional $10.00 fee per day will be charged, maximum $50. If payment is more than one week late, your child will not be permitted to return to child care until both the payment and the late fee are paid in full.
Payments: A personal check, cash or e-transfer will be accepted for payment, however if a check is returned for any reason and I incur any bank charges from the return of your check, those charges will be added to the following payment. Additionally because I am unable to use these funds my late fee for payment also applies. After 2 check returns, all further payments must be made by cash or e-transfer. Non-payment or consistent late payments is cause for termination immediately without 2 weeks’ notice or return of deposit.
A two week notice of any fee increase will be posted.
Tax Receipts: Receipts will be issued for Standard Fees only between January 1 and December 31 of each year. Extended care or late fees will not be included on receipts. Receipts will be available by January 31st for the previous year (eg receipts for 2013 will be available by January 31 2014).
Termination: Parents must provide two weeks written notice when they decide to terminate service. If notice is not given, I will not be able to return your deposit. I reserve the right to terminate service without two weeks’ notice or return of deposit under the following conditions: Consistent late payments, consistent tardiness or violation of gross misconduct policy. Before coming to this decision, I will meet with you to discuss the issue and we will work together to resolve the issue. If I am unable to continue to provide service, I will provide as much notice as possible, minimum of two weeks (unless under extreme conditions). Service will end once your child starts school as I do not provide before and after school care. Before and After School Daycare spots are very limited. I strongly recommend securing a spot or getting on a wait list as early as possible. Most daycares have an average wait list of 1-2 years and finding private care might be a better option.
Trial Period: There is a trial period of 4 weeks from the date child care begins. If the child care arrangements are not mutually satisfactory, either party can terminate this agreement with a 1 (one) day notice – any fees and deposit already paid are non-refundable.
Cleaning: At daycare we share everything, including germs. Throughout the day, I closely monitor the kids and if I see them put a toy in their mouth, it is removed from the play area as soon as they are done with it. The item is cleaned at a convenient moment and return to the play area. All toys, including play centers are thoroughly cleaned every weekend. The table is cleaned before and after meals or structured activities. Floors are swept several times a day and mopped at the end of the day. Change table mat is cleaned in-between every change. All cleaning is done with a vinegar solution. Bedding supplied by me washed weekly with a homemade natural soap. Personal bedding is sent home to be washed minimum once per month or at parent's request.
Food and Kitchen Safety: All food is stored at appropriate temperatures and shelf date. All food is cooked and reheated to safe temperatures. A food thermometer is used. Special care is taken to avoid cross-contamination. All surfaces are cleaned with a vinegar solution. Food in cut into toddler appropriate sizes and small portions are given at a time to prevent "chipmunk cheeks" and choking hazards. Children are not allowed inside of the kitchen unless they remain seated away from cooking or prep areas. I have a special gated area just outside of the kitchen were the children can play as I prepare food. I follow safe kitchen practices such as keeping knives and sharp items out of reach and cooking on the back burners with handles turned away from the edge. All produce is thoroughly cleansed with a vinegar wash. Dirty Dozen produced will be purchased as organics whenever possible. Any imported or non-organic produce will be skinned if possible in order to reduce risks associated with use of agricultural chemicals.
Nutrition: Children are fed nutritious lunch and two snacks every day. The food will be homemade from fresh ingredients. Cakes, cookies (not listed on menu), and other “not so nutritious food” may be served during special events like birthday and holidays. Child with severe allergies or medical dietary restrictions will not be admitted in to my care. Lacto-Ovo Vegetarian options are available. Non-medical dietary restrictions (personal choice) can be discussed. Enrollment will be accepted if a mutual arrangement can be made.
Pets: We are a very animal-friendly home. Children help to care for our animals as a part of our program. We also spend time learning about them. Three small aquariums are permanently set up within the classroom. Children takes turns feeding the fish twice a day. We have two cats. They generally stay in other areas of the house during operating hours, but one is very social and likes to play with the kids for short periods of time. We have two budgies. Occasionally, I will bring their habitat into the classroom for observation and discussion. And lastly, we have a Jack Russell who will remain in outside of the daycare space. If all parents consent, the dog will have short occasional visits with the children. As an extra safety measure, the dog will wear a muzzle and will be leashed but she is a very sweet and gentle dog and is excellent with children.
Supplies: Parents provide milk if drinking full cups or bottle throughout the day (individual bags of milk must be labeled with child's name and expiry date), sippy cup/bottle (to be left at daycare), diapers, wipes, diaper ointments (i.e. zinc or Vaseline), blanket, pillow (if desired), comfort items and 1-2 changes of clothing (including shirt, pants/shorts, socks, underwear [if using], and seasonal items [hat, mittens, sweater etc.]). Sunscreen and insect repellent can also be supplied by parents if desired. All other supplies are provided by the daycare.
Donations: Donations are always welcomed. Items frequently needed are recyclables (egg cartons, toilet paper/paper towel rolls etc), construction paper, non-toxic washable paint, glue, full boxes of tissues, toilet paper and paper towels. Additional items such as food items (fresh produce, cereal, crackers, snack bars, pasta and rice) and any toys, puzzles, books, extra clothing or blankets in good condition are also welcomed.
Discipline: I express my disapproval (without attaching character). I state my expectations and show your child how to make amends. In extreme situations or after several attempts at redirection a child may be asked to sit out for an appropriate amount of time. At times a child may be having trouble making choices of their own and they just may need a couple of minutes to calm down and think about their choices. Sitting out is generally at the table where the child with either be asked to sit quietly or redirected with a quiet activity. If we are working at the table, the child will sit on the carpet. No physical discipline is ever used in my daycare.
Gross Misconduct: I will communicate to you immediately if your child is frequently and deliberately causing harm to others and/or is frequently and deliberately destructive. This behavior is unsafe and will not be allowed – immediate termination will ensue if the behavior persists. Additionally, parents must remain respectable at all times – in-person and through written contact. Disrespectful or controlling behavior or use of profane language (casually or aggressively) will result in immediate termination.
Substance Abuse: If a parent or caregiver arrives to pick up a child and they appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol (appearance/odor/demeanor etc), they will be confronted. I expect honestly. If I feel it is unsafe for the child to be in their care, I will call an emergency contact to pick up the child. Late fees will apply. The parent/caregiver will not be allowed to wait on the property. If they chose to leave with the child, I will contact the police and Children's Aid.
Injuries: I will supervise your child closely in an attempt to prevent injuries, but accidents resulting in injury do occur. I have been trained in first aid and CPR and will follow my training. If the injury is minor (requiring only a band-aid or ice) I will tell you about it when you pick up your child. You will be informed immediately via text message if your child has a head injury that results in a large bump or bruising. I will document all head injuries with a photo for my records. If an injury is serious, I will call you and may even suggest that you take your child to the doctor or emergency room. If an injury is very severe, I will call 911 for assistance before I call you. If I cannot reach you, I will call the emergency contacts listed on your “Child Information Card” (Please remember to keep this card up-to-date).
Potty Training; Potty training shouldn’t be rushed; it is important that your child is psychologically and physically ready for training. Children will be encouraged to use the toilet frequently throughout the day and will be taken to the bathroom upon request. Pull Ups and wipes must be provided by the parent/guardian during this transition period. No regular style training pants or underwear will be used until your child maintains 2 continuous weeks of bladder/bowel control; of course, if your child regresses after this 2 week period we will assess the next step.
Transportation/Outings: I will not be taking the children for outing using a personal vehicle. Local outings will be within walking distance or short public transit bus rides. A volunteer will assist with supervision with groups over 3 children. I would like to schedule 1-2 field trips per year. A chartered bus will be used for these outings.
Release of Children: It is important that I protect your child by ensuring that your child does not leave my home with a person you have not authorized on your “Child Information Card”. Please tell me when someone else that you have authorized on you “Child Information Card” will be picking up your child. Even if it is an emergency, I must have your permission to release your child to someone other than you. I will need the person’s name and a password, changed with each new pick-up. The person picking up your child will have to show me a photo ID and confirm the password before I will release your child from my care. Alternatively, if someone will be frequently picking up your child, we can arrange an in-person meeting and you can provide me with dates they will be picking up. To additionally ensure safety, you must call me from a phone number I have on file and will show on my call display. If using a blocked or unknown number, I will call you back to confirm.
I have to assume that both parents have the right to pick up your child, unless you give me a copy of a court order stating otherwise. We will need to discuss how I should handle the non-custodial parent who arrives to pick up your child. Without a copy of the court order, I cannot refuse a parent. If I have a court order and a non-custodial parent tries to pick up the child, I will immediately call the custodial parent. If the non-custodial parent leaves with the child, I will immediately call the police and report the situation. I will not place the other children at risk in a confrontation with the non-custodial parent.
It is very important to me that your child arrives home safely. Therefore, if the person who arrives to pick up your child appears intoxicated or otherwise incapable of bringing your child home safely, I will call the parent or emergency contact person listed on the “Child Information Card” to request their assistance. If the situation occurs a second time, it will be grounds for terminating my care of your child.
Car Seats: All children should be transported to and from child care in a car seat or child restraint if under 6 years old or 60 pound. For further clarification refer to the Ontario Law Regulations for children and seat belts and abide by that law for your child safety. I will not release your child if the person picking up your child does not have a properly installed/used car seat and your child falls into the car seat requirements.
Dress Code Policy: Remember your child will get dirty – stains and damages are very likely. Please send your child in play clothes. Light stains are acceptable, but clothing must be clean and in presentable condition for play. Children 2-3 years old will be taught and encouraged to dress themselves. Children over 3 should be able to dress themselves with minimal assistance required, including buttons, zippers and shoe straps (Velcro preferred). Please help them with this process by providing easy to use items. Please ensure your child arrives dressed in or with the following:
Spring/Fall
- light jacket or sweater
- light hat, mitts/gloves
- pants and long sleeved shirts (provide extra with t-shirt, capris/shorts in case it warms up outside)
- T-shirts that cover the shoulders (no tank or thin straps – you can provide extra t-shirt for outdoors)
- knee-length shorts/skirt/dresses
- extra layer (light jacket/sweater/long sleeved shirt)
- sun hat (preferably one that covers ears and back of neck)
- running shoes
- closed-toe sport sandals (service will be denied if your child arrives with open-toed or dress shoes)
- rain boots on wet days (even if the rain has stopped – there will still be puddles or mud)
- waterproof winter boots
- warm waterproof mitts
- waterproof snowsuit – must have snow pants
- warm hat that covers the ears
- neck warmer – scarves not permitted
Sun-Safe and Sunscreen Policy: Will be used when the children will be outside for longer than 20 minutes between the months of May-October or whenever the weather is warm enough to be outdoors without a jacket/sweater/long sleeves
- Sunscreen must be SPF 30 or higher, offers UVA and UVB protection and preferably waterproof.
- Sunscreen must be approved for use on children. Spray sunscreen will not be permitted.
- Sunscreen should be tested on your children to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
- Sunscreen should be applied before arriving at daycare.
- All children must wear a wide-brimmed hat (preferably one that covers the neck and ears).
- All children must wear a t-shirt that covers their shoulder (please no tank tops or thin strapped dresses).
- Shorts and dresses should be knee-length. Long dresses may interfere with your child play, such as climbing play structures so please keep this in mind when dressing your child.
- Unbreakable sunglasses with 100% UV protection are recommended
- If you choose to not have sunscreen applied to your child, you must provide a thin, white or lightly colored long sleeve shirt from fabrics that are tightly woven. This shirt can be left at daycare and will be sent home for cleaning as needed
- All bottles must be labelled in permanent marker with your child’s name and the date it was opened/purchased and within the manufacture’s expiry date.
Insect Repellent Policy: Insect repellent with 10% deet will be used under the following conditions:
- When mosquitoes and ticks are present
- During field trips that may expose the children to mosquitoes and ticks
- Used according to directions on the label
- Applied only to exposed skin and clothes
- Not applied near eyes, mouth or on hands
- Used as indicated above
- Provided in a fine mist spray bottle
- List of ingredients and application directions are provided
- Original source of recipe is provided
- Note from a doctor ensuring it is safe to use on a child is provided
- If you choose to not have insect repellent applied to your child, you must provide a thin, white or lightly colored long sleeve shirt and thin pants for field trips or when exposure risk is high. These items can be left at daycare and will be sent home for cleaning as needed.
- All bottles must be labelled in permanent marker with your child’s name and the date it was opened/purchased/made and expiry date.
Child’s Health: All vaccines must be up to date. You are required to submit a copy of your child's immunization record for your child's file. If you have chosen not to vaccinate your child, a doctor’s note must be provided stating you have informed your doctor of your decision. Parent/guardian must complete a medical emergency card entitled “Child Information Card” and update as necessary. Your child cannot be admitted to daycare with symptoms of illness as specified below; unless written documentation from a licensed physician, or verbal (with written follow up) states the child has been diagnosed and poses no serious health risk to the child or to other children. Should your child have signs or symptoms requiring exclusion from the daycare he/she will be isolated and the parent/guardian or other authorized person by the parent will be notified immediately to pick up your child. There can be no exceptions since illness spreads quickly among children. In the event of my own children becoming ill, they will spend the day within the personal space of our home (bedrooms, den).
Please make other arrangements if your child is sick and respect my decision if I feel your child is too sick to be in child care. I am sympathetic to the difficulties of taking time off, so discretion will be used. I must protect the well-being of the other children and myself.
The symptoms of illness for possible exclusion shall include, but are not limited to any of the following…
A. The illness prevents your child from participating comfortably in the day care environment,
B. The illness results in a greater care need than I can provide without compromising the health and safety of the other children in my care
C. The child has any of the following conditions:
- Temperature: Oral temperature 101 degrees or greater; axillary (armpit) temperature 100 degrees or greater; accompanied by behavior changes or other signs or symptoms of illness- until medical evaluation indicates inclusion in the facility. Oral temperature shall not be taken on children younger than 4 years (or younger than 3 years if a digital thermometer is used).
- Symptoms and signs of possible severe illness (such as unusual lethargy, uncontrolled coughing, irritability, persistent crying, difficult breathing, wheezing, or other unusual signs)- until medical evaluation allows inclusion
- Uncontrolled diarrhea, that is, increased number of stools, increased stool water, and/or decreased form that is not contained by the diaper- until diarrhea stops
- Vomiting illness (two or more episodes of vomiting in the previous 24 hours) until vomiting resolves or until a health care provider determines the illness to be non-communicable, and the child is not in danger of dehydration
- Mouth sores with drooling, unless a health care provider or health official determines the condition is noninfectious
- Rash with fever or behavior change, until a health care provider determines that these symptoms do not indicate a communicable disease
- Purulent conjunctivitis (defined as pink or red conjunctiva with white or yellow eye discharge), until 24 hours after treatment has been initiated
- Scabies, head lice, or other infestation, until 24 hours after treatment has been initiated
- Tuberculosis, until a health care provider or health official states that the child can attend child care
- Impetigo, until 24 hours after treatment has been initiated
- Strep throat or other streptococcal infection, until 24 hours after initial antibiotic treatment and cessation of fever
- Chicken pox, until at least 6 days after onset of rash or until all sores have dried and crusted
- Pertussis, until 5 days of appropriate antibiotic treatment (currently; erythromycin) to prevent an infection have been completed and a licensed physician states in writing the child may return
- Mumps, until 9 days after onset of parotid gland swelling and a licensed physician states in writing the child may return
- Hepatitis A virus, until 1 week after onset of illness or as directed by the health department when passive immunoprophylaxis (currently, immune serum globulin) has been administered to appropriate children and staff and a licensed physician states in writing the child may return
- Measles, until 6 days after onset of rash and a licensed physician states in writing the child may return
- Rubella, until 6 days after onset of rash and a licensed physician states in writing the child may return
- Unspecified respiratory illness if it limits the child's comfortable participation in activities or if it results in a need for greater care than can be provided without compromising the health and safety of other children
- Herpetic gingivostomatitis (cold sores), if the child is too young to have control of oral secretions.
Any of the following communicable diseases must be also be reported to the division of public health
Diphtheria
German Measles
Hemophilus Influenza Disease
Measles (rubeola)
Bacterial (spinal) Meningitis
Mumps
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Rubella
Tuberculosis
Giardiasis
Hepatitis A
Salmonellosis
Shigellosis
Always inform your doctor at every sick visit that your child is in daycare so that he/she can approve in writing your child’s return to daycare.
If your child had an immunization update, please remember to provide me with a record of the immunization so that it can be attached to your child’s health appraisal.
Child’s Medication:
Due to anaphylaxic allergies in our household, penicillin, amoxicillin, other beta lactams medications and sulfonamides (sulfa) will not be allowed. If your child requires any of these medications, please adjust the dosage schedule so all administrations happen at home. Please exercise extremely caution when administrating before coming to daycare and ensure there is not any traces (no drops on clothes, wash hands and rinse out mouth). It is important to inform me if your child taking any of these medications.
1. A Medication Log must accompany ALL prescription or over the counter medicine. Over the counter medicine is usually given for short term health conditions; the average length of time is 5 days. Log must include:
- Child’s Name
- Date Administered
- Medication Name
- Dose
- Frequency/Time
- Method
- Special Directions
- Parent Signature
- Have a Prescription Medication Form filled out
- Be in original container or package
- Be dated with in the past 30 days
- Have child’s name printed clearly on the label
- Have dosage amount, frequency, method and special directions
- Doctor and Pharmacy information
- Additional info booklet (side effects, signs of allergy) would be appreciated
- Current Over-the-Counter Medication Form on file
- Within expiry date
- In original packaging
- Labelled with child's name
Updated August 17 2017