Kathy Shilling
“Kathy's Kids Clubhouse" 6417 Saddleback Drive Denton, Texas 76210 940-367-6805 www.kathyskidsclubhouse.com
Parent Handbook of Policies
Welcome
The purpose of this Parent Handbook of Policies is to outline the policies and procedures under which I operate as a Director Licensed home childcare provider that privately cares for infants to home schooling preschoolers. These policies were last updated July 2023.
Registration Checklist Children may be enrolled from birth and up, regardless of race, creed, or religious beliefs. The following forms are required by Texas Health and Human Services and Kathy Shilling that need to be read, completed and/or signed prior to enrollment:
- Parent Handbook of Policies (read/sign/date. I will give you copy)
- Admission Information (complete/sign/date)
- Statement of Health (Physician provided)
- Immunization Record (Physician provided or I can copy)
- Child Assessment Form(complete/sign/date)
- Contract (sign/date)
- Permission to Photograph (read/complete/sign/date)
- Building for the Future(read)
- Child Nutrition Inc. Enrollment Form (complete/sign/date at enrollment)
- CACFP Infant Feeding Preference (only for 12mths & younger, complete/sign/date at enrollment)
- Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan (if needed)
- Liability Waiver (read/sign/date)
- Infant Safe Sleep (read/sign/&date)
- Infant Feeding Instruction (filled out at enrollment and monthly until child is one year old)
Definitions * Infant/Young Toddler: birth ~ 18 months
* Toddler: 19 months – 3 years
* Preschool: 3 years- 4 years * Full Time Childcare: Contracted and available Monday ~ Friday, no more than 10 hours per day * Drop-In Day/ Hourly Care/ Overnight Care: Non-contracted available Monday through Sunday, if space is available.
* Overnight Care: Available Midnight-9am in addition to date night drop-in care fees.
***Children will not be released if alcohol has been consumed, fees apply***
* Weekly Tuition and fees are per contract and per child
State Licensing Kathy Shilling is Director Licensed by Department of Health and Human Services to provide and complies with all applicable licensing regulations and standards. These standards relate to our home, household members, animals, health, safety procedures, nutrition, care giver to child ratios, and record keeping. We believe that these standards are in the best interest of the children. Our home is subject to inspection by the state, CACFP and licensing officials. The latest licensing inspection report is posted on the wall located to left of the cubbies for your viewing at any time or you may go to the states website to view. Minimum standards and my latest inspection can be found online at www.dfps.state.tx.us/child_care/ . There is also a filed copy of Minimum Standards at the daycare you can review any time. You may also contact the local licensing office at 940-381-3400. To file a complaint by phone 800-252-5400 or by website for Tx Abuse/Neglect at www.txabusehotline.org
Occupancy Kathy Shilling is Licensed to provide care for up to 12 children. The children’s ages usually range from birth~ 4 years old.
Policy & Contracts These policy’s run January to January of each year. Every year the policies will be looked over for changes, minimum standards additions, and possible increase of rates. This is our home as well as business, so please be respectful of our family and home by adhering to the policies and procedures outlined in the parent handbook. We realize this is a lot of information to absorb. Because of this, please keep your Parent Handbook of Policies accessible so you can periodically review our policies and procedures, as necessary. You are also able to view them on our website at www.kathyskidsclubhouse.com. I reserve the right to amend any portion of the Parent Handbook of Policies & Contract, Contract and Enrollment Application at any time. When I do make a change to the contract you will be given a new copy.
Daycare Hours The daycare is Licensed to be open 5:30am – 5:30pm Monday through Friday. Your tuition covers 10 hours or less of care per day. All other hours and days are based on availability. I except full time contracted students, drop-in care, and date night/overnight care if ratio allows, with exception of the holidays listed below. Your hours are based upon your contracted days and hours only. You will be responsible for fees outside of your contracted hours paid no later than with your next weekly tuition payment. Do not arrive before your contracted time or after your contracted time without prior approval.
Interviews For the safety and privacy of currently enrolled families, interview and tours for new students are by appointment Monday through Friday after 5:30 and on weekends. A deposit of one week’s tuition for the first week’s attendance is required to hold a spot.
Payment Policy Contracted student payments are due every Friday before 6pm. First payment is due at enrollment and then every Friday to hold your child’s spot for the following week. If payment is received after Friday, there will be a daily late fee of $20 per contract, per child you have in care, per day. It is not the responsibility of the provider to remind the parents when payment is due. If tuition and fees are not received when due, it will be cause for suspension of services until full payment is made. Failure to pay the past-due amount will result in legal action being taken against you. This includes your normal weekly rate, overtime, late fees, and legal fees. Should daycare be closed for a holiday on your pay date all payments must be received the day before 6:00pm. If your child is absent on your pay-date, you are still required to make your payment. Late fees will include Saturday and Sunday. Your specific hours, dates and rates are outlined in your childcare contract. I accept cash, Zelle, Venmo and personal checks. Tuition payments can be made for weekly, bi-weekly and/or monthly care. Enrollment is based on holding your child’s slot, not on the child’s attendance. No refunds are given for late arrivals/early departures, parental vacations, or exclusion due to illness. Closings due to health and safety protocols or closings due to road conditions deemed hazardous by our local school transportation department, is paid time off and does not count toward paid personal days.
If your child is contracted full time or part-time you are still responsible for paying for holidays, sick/personal days, child absences from: sickness, being late, being picked up early or vacations. Fees are required regardless of whether your child attends or not. I will not substitute for hours or days missed. *It must be understood that to hold your child's space, payment must be paid whether your child attends or not. Payment is based on contract, not attendance. **
Deposit A nonrefundable deposit equal to one week of childcare cost is due at time of enrollment to secure your child’s spot for their first week of enrollment. Your child's spot is not secured until I have received the deposit. The deposit will be credited towards the first week of your child's verbal enrollment date. * If you choose to not enroll your child, the deposit is not refunded. If you need to change the enrollment date to later, you are responsible for all days from first enrollment date to the later.
Tuition Fees Newborn ~ 18mths: $280 per week 19mths ~ +5 years old: $220 per week
**Tuition subject to change. I will give you two weeks' notice of any changes and during that time you may except the changes or give your notice** Drop-In care & Date/Over Night care Zelle, Venmo or cash payment made upon reserving the day. Reserved drop-in days, if the child cannot attend, payment is still due. Reserved days/times are for your child and cannot be filled. Drop-In Day rate: $60
*Payment is due for all reserved days even if child does not attend. That day is held for your child and payment is due. Hourly Care: $15.00 per hr. for first child and $5 per each additional child Date Night Overnight Care: $20.00 additional for first child and $10 per each additional child (Midnight-9am) * Additional hours acceptable with fee
Maternity & Holding Position If there is an available spot, you have the option of paying tuition at 50% to hold this spot for your child. I cannot hold spots longer than 6 weeks without full payment thereafter. If you wish to hold a spot, you will need to pay the 50% weekly rate each Friday to continue the hold. At the end of the 6-week period, you will be required to pay 100% of the weekly fee to continue a hold or you forfeit the position and lose all monies paid until that date. This is a nonrefundable payment to secure a spot for your child until enrollment.
Late Pickup Policy Late fees are charged case by case because I understand unavoidable circumstances occur. However, they will be implemented at any point if there is excessive tardiness. Late pick-up should be rare and beyond parents’ control. Habitual late pick-ups breach the cooperative relationship between provider and clients and may result in termination of contract. The late charge is assessed of $1.00 for every one minute late if this is more than an occasional occurrence. Remember your weekly tuition amount covers 10 hours per day. If a recurring late pickup occurs, we may need to adjust your child’s contracted hours of care and weekly tuition amount. Please be courteous and arrive on time. After hours is time with my family.
Non- Sufficient Checks A check is always an acceptable form of payment until you present me with a bad check. You are responsible for all charges I may incur from my bank because of your bad check. You will also be charged a fee of $30 for your NSF check and childcare late fee per day. Childcare will be halted until you reimburse me the amount of the check, all expenses that have incurred and late fees. Reimbursement will be in cash only. Future payments will be required to be made in cash. In the event you do not pay for this NSF check, you can expect to be taken to small claims court to settle the dispute.
Filing Taxes All payments made towards your child’s account for tuition, late fees, date nights and NSF fees are all kept track of by me as a courtesy. Also, by courtesy, you will receive an itemized statement with all payments made, my signature and my Tax ID number to turn in with your taxes by end of January following the new year.
Paid Holidays Contracted paid holidays (bank holidays) consist of these days: * New Year's Day * Martin Luther King Jr. * Presidents Day * Good Friday * Memorial Day * July 4th
* August 19th(birthday or a Friday about it) * Labor Day * Halloween (close @ 4pm) * Veterans Day
* Thanksgiving Day * Day after Thanksgiving * Christmas Eve * Christmas Day * New Year’s EVE Note: If the holiday falls on a Saturday daycare will be closed the Friday before. If the holiday falls on a Sunday daycare will be closed the Monday after. I reserve the right to make changes to this depending on my needs at the time around the holidays. I also reserve the right to be open on holidays for additional fees.
Note: Parents are responsible for finding back-up care.
Paid Sick/Personal Days As strong as my immune system has become over the years, unfortunately I still get sick from time to time. Because of this I allot ten sick/personal days per year. Of course, I will give you as much notice as possible. Closings due to health and safety protocols or closings due to road conditions deemed hazardous by our local school transportation department, are paid time off and do not count toward paid personal days.
Note: Parents are responsible for finding back-up care.
Health/Weather Related Closures For the safety of children in care, our facility will follow the Denton Independent School District and or Denton Health Department for any closures due to inclement weather or health safety reasons. Listen to local radio or television stations for school closure or by texting me. Closings due to health and safety protocols or closings due to road conditions deemed hazardous by our local school transportation department, it is paid time off and does not count toward paid personal days.
Note: Parents are responsible for finding back-up care.
Vacations If I should ever take a vacation, days will be posted at least one month in advance.
Regular payment rates apply for your vacations, weeks with holidays, child illnesses, closings due to health and safety protocols or closings due to road conditions deemed hazardous by our local school transportation department and provider's sick/personal days. These are paid time off and do not count toward paid personal days. Note: Parents are responsible for finding back-up care.
Tuition Covers ~ Meals* (Breakfast & Lunch. Super if contracted for later) ~ Afternoon snack* ~ Drinks* ~ Formula* (does not include RX or specialty formulas) ~ Curriculum and craft supplies for child when they are ready (daycare hours only) ~ Pack N Play, mat or cot & blanket (no blanket for infants) ~ Feeding supplies, cups and bottles ~Wipes ~ Use of lights, water, AC/ heater, cleaning supplies, updating toys, replacing toys, my trainings, taxes, social security and the list goes on (*See special diet section)
Supplies Needed at Daycare Parents are responsible for supplying the following items: Infants/toddlers: diapers/pull-ups (side openings only), diaper creams, powders, weather appropriate clothes and a change of clothes, jacket, shoes that lace-up or Velcro and/or stay on feet (no flip-flops please), pacifier (if needed), and Sleeper (for infants).
Older children: shoes, jacket, change of clothes. There is a good possibility your child will get dirty throughout the day because of food, paint, markers, dirt, bubbles, etc. So please dress your child accordingly for play. We are not responsible for replacing stained or soiled clothing. Furthermore, we suggest that you write your child's name on the tags of their clothing (especially socks and underwear) to prevent any clothing mix-ups. It is the parent’s responsibility to bring appropriate clothing for their child for weather permitting outdoor play.
Note: Please periodically check your child's locker/cubby to make sure they still have all their necessary items needed at daycare. Furthermore, as the weather changes throughout the year, so do your child's items needed at daycare. We greatly appreciate your adherence to this subject, as it helps ours and the children's day run more smoothly to have all their necessary belongings with them at daycare. This way we can care for your child in the best possible way.
Liability By signing this policy and contract, I understand that Kathy and Terry Shilling/Kathy's Kids Clubhouse is not responsible/liable for any expenses due to any bodily, facial, or other injuries that should occur to my child while he/she is under care. This includes her home/ premises or vehicle. I agree and understand that I will not sue for medical expenses/damages, dental expenses, ambulance and etc. due to any accident/incident occurred while my child is under the care of Kathy Shilling or Terry Shilling. I also understand she does not carry a liability insurance policy.
Discontinuation of Services Notice If you will no longer be needing my childcare services, two weeks advance notice needs to be given to me. Whenever possible even more notice is better. This helps me tremendously make future arrangements with new families inquiring about daycare for their child. Also, will allow me to leave a positive note for your future provider in our area.
Termination Policy The first two weeks will be regarded as a trial period, in which case either party may terminate the contract without notice. After the first two weeks of enrollment, a two-week written notice from parent or provider is required to terminate the contract, except for gross misconduct on part of the provider, parent, or child. This is the grounds for immediate discontinuation of service. In cases of non-payment, legal action may be taken, and the parents will pay all legal fees incurred. If a parent terminates this contract without notice, they will be billed for two weeks even if the child is not in care. I reserve the right to immediate terminate services without refund for the following reasons (but not limited to):
*Lack of compliance with handbook rules and regulations
*Lack of compliance with the enrollment agreement.
*Lack of parental cooperation
*Failure to complete required forms
*False information given by the parent either verbally or in writing.
*Consistent late/early arrivals
*Failure to pay or not paying on time
*My inability to meet the needs of your child
*Disrespect to my family and I as well as our home
*Physical or verbal abuse of any person or property
Current Information Please remember to notify me of any changes to contact numbers, emergency contact numbers and physician information as this is how I will notify you and others in case of any emergency or illness with your child. It is the parents’ responsibility to notify me of any changes in addresses and numbers of contact.
Open-Door Policy/Parents Participation in Operation Activities I have an open-door policy for all parents. This means you can stop by during business hours unannounced to observe your child, program activities, the home, the premises, and equipment without having to secure prior approval. Of course, for safety purposes, my door will be locked. Parents are also free to call or text to check on their child at any time. Parents also have the right to access their own child’s record at a scheduled parent conference. As stated before under State Licensing heading, parents also can ask to review a copy of the child-care home’s most recent Licensing inspection report and/or access online at www.dfps.state.tx.us/child_care/, You may also contact the local licensing office at 940-381-3400. To file a complaint by phone 800-252-5400 or by website for Tx Abuse/Neglect at www.txabusehotline.org
Sign-In Sheets There is a sign in sheet on the entry table. Please sign your child in and out each day. If you have more than one child attending, please sign in one child per line to help with accountability of children in care.
Arrival & Departure of My Home Children are to arrive clean and ready for the day. It is normal for some children to have difficulty separating from their parents. Please make your drop off brief, the longer you prolong the departure, the harder it gets. A smile, cheerful good-by kiss, and a reassuring word that you will be back are all that is needed. Children are always quick to get involved in play or activities as soon as their parents are gone. Please be brief at pick up times as well. This is a time of testing, when two different authority figures are present (parent and provider). All children will test to see if the rules still apply. Please be in control of your child during these times. Because of State licensing “All children under the age of school-age must be within sight and or sound of the provider and or parent / guardian.” Please do not allow your child to go out the door without you. If we are outside, please do not allow your child to go out of the gate without you. I also ask that your child stays by you while walking to the car. Please do not allow your child to bring food (half-eaten breakfasts, breakfast bars, candy, or gum) and or beverages to consume upon arrival. This is a disturbance and may cause other children to become upset.
Release of Children from my home or Emergency Transport No one other than the parent or person designated by you will be allowed to pick up your child without advanced written, texted, or verbal permission indicating the person's name and relationship to your child. If there is a court order keeping one parent away from the child, we must have a copy of that order in our file to that effect. Otherwise, we cannot prevent the non-custodial parent from picking up the child. Also, we would like a four-digit code kept in the child’s folder. The code will only be shared with the person who is to pick up the child. Proper identification will also be required, a picture of that ID/license will be taken to place in the child’s folder.
Changes in Your Child's Schedule If you need to bring your child into childcare later than your scheduled time or if you will be picking him /her up between 11:30 and 3:00, please let me know. While I want to encourage you to visit any time during the day, I need to know if children will be arriving or leaving during mealtimes and naptime. I have found that if parents schedule baby/child doctor visits well later in the afternoon, the children's routine is not disrupted as much as those morning & midday appointments. Tell me as soon as you know there will be a change in your schedule, so we can find the best way to accommodate that change. Please notify me of any doctor’s appointments and other planned absences. For unplanned absences, please call the night before or at least 1/2-hour before your child's scheduled arrival time.
Health Check A visual or physical assessment upon arrival will be done on your child/children. This is to identify potential concerns about your child's health, including signs or symptoms of illness and injury, in response to changes in the child's behavior since the last date of attendance. If need be, it will be noted along with any changes during the day in their file.
Animals We have dogs and cats in our home. They all receive yearly vaccinations and have signed veterinary documents that they are free of diseases and safe to be around children. They've been raised with daycare, so they are all very sweet with the children. Although they are very sweet & trusted, I keep the dogs in another area of the home during the day while the kids are here. The cats of course are a little harder to keep out but stay outside of the gate for most of the daycare hours. The outdoor daycare play area is separated from the dog area and the children do not have contact with their waste. If children encounter any of my animals, they are required to show kindness to my animals. Pulling of fur, tails, kicking or any other unkindness that is ongoing may result in termination of contract.
Cleanliness I take the well-being of your child very seriously and work hard to provide an environment that is as healthy as possible. Also committed to keeping our home and the children in it as clean as possible, to help minimize and/or prevent the spread of germs. Our home is kept clean and disinfected. We thoroughly clean surfaces that children come in close contact with using soap and water, and bleach/water, etc. The highchairs are cleaned between each use, and the diaper changing tables are cleaned and disinfected between each diaper change. Toys are cleaned and disinfected often. Hand washing is the single most effective practice in preventing the spread of germs. We wash our hands many times throughout the day, as well as the children's hands before and/or after engaging in a thorough list of activities.
Diaper Policy It is the parent's responsibility to provide diapers/ training pants (side open), diaper cream and powders for your child. Creams and powders must have the children’s name printed on them. Diapers are checked frequently and changed every three hours or more often if required. Diapers containing #2 are changed immediately. The diaper changing tables are cleaned and disinfected between each diaper change, and hand washing of childcare provider and child is performed after each diaper change.
Toilet Training We are more than happy to encourage potty training as long as the child is ready (typically between 2 and 3 years old). The initial start needs to be done at home for at least two weeks with success before it can be effectively started at daycare. Parents will be required to supply pull-ups. Children will be allowed to come to daycare in cotton training pants/underwear after they have been accident free for at least two weeks in pull-ups. Communication between parents and the daycare provider is imperative for a successful transition from diapers to toilets. This includes wiping with toilet paper and handwashing. All in preparation for kindergarten where children are responsible for selfcare.
Guidelines - What Is Asked of Children *All food and drinks must be kept in the kitchen/Daycare area. *No playing in the bathroom. *No coloring on anything but paper. * Help clean up. *Name calling and foul language or yelling is not allowed. *No hitting, kicking, pushing, pinching, biting, spitting, or pulling hair. *No pulling or picking of bugs, plants, grass, trees, or flowers. *No picking-up, pulling, poking, or squeezing of babies or animals *All kitchen and bathroom cupboards are off limits to daycare children. *Take turns and share. *Laugh, smile, play, and be happy.
Damages If your child intentionally damages my property through destructive behavior or roughness, you will be liable for 100% of the damages. Parents are responsible for any item that is broken or damaged intentionally by their child. This includes but is not limited to toys, curriculum, furniture, books, baby gear, pack and plays and interior walls and doors. Parents will have 5 school days from the date the item was damaged to replace with the exact item that was broken or to pay the amount it will cost for the provider to replace the item. Failure to adhere to this policy is grounds for immediate termination. If the item is not replaced within 5 business days a $50 loss of use and repair charge will be added to your tuition bill which must be paid in full before care is rendered.
Discipline and Guidance I believe that the discipline of a child is achieved through patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. I also try and teach the children in my care manners, kindness and to be respectful to others. One of the ways in which I do this is by the example as provider set. I understand that actions and reactions speak much louder than words. The children are explained the rules of the daycare frequently, so they know what's expected of them. Once a child is old enough to understand the rules and disobeys them by exhibiting inappropriate behavior (hitting, aggression, etc.), hurts others, or property, the following developmentally appropriate guidance techniques will be used. These techniques are as follows: * Positive Reinforcement: The child will be encouraged when he or she is demonstrating acceptable behavior. * Redirection: The child is redirected to another activity and given an opportunity to try again at another time. * Time-Out: The child is separated from the group for an age-appropriate amount of time (one minute per one year of age). This technique is only used when a child repeatedly will not follow our directions or listen to our words, is exhibiting temper tantrum type behavior, or hurting oneself, others, or equipment. When the child shows that he or she is ready to demonstrate acceptable behavior, they are encouraged to join the rest of the group to try again. * Last Resort: When a child's behavior is continually upsetting or dangerous to others, a conference will be called with the parents. If the problems cannot be resolved, arrangements will have to be made for the child to go elsewhere for care. Additionally, a signed Discipline and Guidance form provided by licensing is signed upon enrollment. Note: Sometimes if both a parent and a provider are both in the same area (examples would be during drop-off and pick-up times) a child may forget the rules or test the boundaries. Please help show your child that you respect us, the rules of our house, our property, and animals by reminding them that the rules still apply when you are around. We will also remind them of the rules and correct them if needed.
TV Viewing We do use our class television and or DVD player unless for educational purposes. It would be used for indoor exercise or for additional extended learning experiences. I may also use YouTube and the Scholastic website for additional educational purposes during preschool time. Children are never required to sit and watch TV, and TV is not offered in place of free play or in place of learning activities.
Birthdays & Specials Most children enjoy celebrating special events with their preschool friends (birthdays, new babies, and holidays). Parents may send a cake, cupcakes or treat to share with the class. You are welcome to pass out birthday party invitations at school for parties that will be held outside of school. You may bring special treats for holidays, birthdays, or other special occasions with prior approval.
Breastfeed Babies Breast milk is welcomed frozen or liquid in bags for their child. I will provide the parent requested bottle. The bags must be labeled with the child’s name and date bagged. Unused breast milk will be frozen and stored for the infant’s later feedings. Multiple bags are welcome.
Meals/Snacks I participate in the USDA’s Child and Adult Care Food Program, a state funded program that enables providers to serve nutritionally balanced meals to those in their care. Child Nutrition Inc. is Kathy Shilling's sponsor in the Child & Adult Food Program (CACFP)Please do not bring outside food unless your child has a medical, dietary, or religious issue that makes food substitutions necessary. A special diet statement is required for children who bring food substitutions. Food substitutions will only be served at scheduled mealtimes. Each day we provide three nutritious and well-balanced meals. All meals and snacks meet the requirements of the Child and Adult Care Food Program. We provide morning breakfast from 7- 9:00am, lunch from 11-12:00pm and afternoon snack at 3:00pm. If your child arrives after a meal has already been served, you are responsible for feeding your child. Evening meals are served with the family. Milk and water are always served with breakfast and lunch. Milk, water, or juice is served with snacks. Your child will also have a water cup accessible to them all day. We also provide formula and baby food for infants. The meals and snacks for each week constantly vary to ensure the children receive a well-balanced diet. The children are offered the food, but they will not be forced to eat. It is our goal to offer nutritious meals and snacks to the children in our care, as nutrition is a vital part of a child's health and immunity. Children need to eat well-balanced meals to meet his or her daily energy needs and to help them build a strong body and mind. We know that the good food habits a child develops will help them prevent cavities, iron deficiency anemia, and obesity, etc. - all common nutritional problems in young children. We are NOT a “Peanut-FREE Zone.” So please advise of ALL Peanut Allergies.
Special Diets If your child has any dietary needs resulting from being a vegetarian, or having allergies, religious beliefs, or non-religious beliefs, etc., then we must be informed, and when applicable given a doctor's note stating to the fact. At that time, it will be determined if your child can participate in the nutrition program. Certain meals and different types of foods can usually be substituted in place of, to still fulfill the dietary requirements of the nutrition program. However, if a solution cannot be reached between parents, provider, and the child nutrition program with regards to their rules and regulations, then all the child's meals and snacks will have to be provided by the parent.
Food Nutrition Non-Discrimination Statement In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by: mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or fax:(833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442;or email:Program.Intake@usda.gov
Immunizations/ Exemptions Each child in care must have current and up to date immunizations and then continue to meet applicable immunization requirements specified by Texas Department of State Health Services. This requirement applies to all children in care from birth through 14 years. With each immunization, I will need a current copy for my records. This includes any immunization exemptions or exceptions. I recognize and affirms parents’ rights to determine their children’s medical care, including decisions related to immunizations and vaccines and to allopathic, homeopathic, and chiropractic medical care. A client’s preference for non-western approaches to medicine, including conscientious objections to vaccinations, must be fully discussed with the provider before care begins — preferably at the initial interview. Parents’ failure to be transparent regarding all potentially relevant medical information may be considered intentional and result in terminated care.
Hearing & Vision Screening This childcare is required to abide by the Vision & Hearing Screening Requirements set forth by the Texas Health and Safety Code for The Special Senses and Communication Disorders Act. It requires children who turn 4 years old to receive a screening or a professional examination for possible vision and hearing problems. I must be given a copy of that screening as part of the child’s records and some information is shared with The Department of State Health Services (no names). Exemption excepted, also.
Bug Spray and Sunscreen Bug spray and sunscreen will not be applied. This is the parent or guardian responsibility before arrival.
Over Counter Oral/Cream Medication I do not give over counter oral/cream medications to the children. If your child needs to be medicated to get through the day and be able to comfortably participate in our classroom activities, then it is quite possible he or she may be too sick to attend daycare.
Physician Prescribed Medication The provider will not administer the first dosage of any medication. Parents must give the first dose of medication to their child at least 12 hours before being brought to daycare to ensure there are no adverse allergic reactions. If the child has taken the medication before, parents may waive the 12-hour period but must still administer the first dose of a newly filled prescription. Parents must not medicate their child to make them appear well at drop-off, especially when a child is contagious. Should this be found to occur, I will immediately and permanently terminate the childcare agreement. The provider will only dispense medication brought in its original container, with a fully intact label, and with the supplied dosing device. For each separate medication, parents must provide written permission to medicate and instructions for accurate dosing. The provider will log each dosage given. Unused medication will be returned to the parents. If you're not sure if we will administer a certain medication or not, please feel free to ask.
Emergency Epinephrine auto-injectors (Epi pens) My daycare home does not have or keep unprescribed epinephrine auto-injectors in case of anaphylaxis. If a child has an epinephrine auto-injector prescribed by a doctor, the provider will securely store it out of children’s reach in its original manufacturer’s packaging and with the child’s name on it with the first aid kit. If a child requires use of their auto-injector, the provider must call 911, will follow all instructions given by 911 operators, and will then call the parents at the earliest opportunity. Used prescribed Epi pens will be given to parents for proper disposal or given to EMS if need be. Child’s allergy plan must be on file.
Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Care If your child has an allergy to food, insects etc. you must have your child’s physician fill out a Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan, sign, and date. If your child needs an Epinephrine injection or medication in case of allergic reactions, the parent is responsible for purchase of medication for childcare or in bringing one daily to and from childcare. A copy of your child’s plan will be placed in my files and in my van. The original will be privately placed on the wall, under an allergy alert sheet, for volunteers to see and/or household members in case of an emergency. Your child cannot attend daycare unless he has an up-to-date epi pen, or any additional medication needed for a reaction assigned by your doctor. If a child has an epinephrine auto-injector prescribed by a doctor, the provider will securely store it out of children’s reach in its original manufacturer’s packaging and with the child’s name on it with the first aid kit. If a child requires use of their auto-injector, the provider must call 911, will follow all instructions given by 911 operators, and will then call the parents at the earliest opportunity.
Transportation Medical Emergency Kathy Shilling does not transport children in medical emergencies or injury emergencies. The provider will call 911 and emergency personnel will transport the child to a local hospital if necessary. I will remain at the daycare with the other children. Copies of Enrollment documents and information on file that would pertain to the child in an emergency will be given to ambulance personnel in a RED envelope.
Illness While in Care For the health and safety of your child and all the children in care, please do not bring your child to daycare sick. In which case, I in turn may become sick, making it difficult to care for the children to the high standards that I have set. The state will only allow me to care for children with allergies like symptoms that are otherwise feeling and acting well. Allergy-like symptoms are clear runny nose, slight cough, no fever and able to participate in our class activities. If you are not sure if your child should be brought to daycare, then please call and check with us. The child must be feeling well enough to participate in our daily schedule. Continuous excessive crying or I feel the child is uncomfortable, the child will need to be picked up. If a child becomes ill during daycare hours: the child will be moved away from the other children, the parents will be contacted to pick up their child and I will continue caring for the sick child and healthy children until the parent arrives. Making sure I wash my hands between the two groups. In addition, parents need to pick up their sick child within one hour of being notified. If parents are not available, the emergency contact person will be notified. Note: Once the child is removed from daycare due to illness, they may not return to daycare until symptoms requiring removal are no longer present. The child must be fever free without the help of medication for 24 hours. The child must also be void of any contagious disease, unless accompanied by a doctor's note stating the illness in question is not contagious, and the child is otherwise feeling well enough to participate in our daily schedule.
Guidelines for Children Requiring Exclusion from Daycare A child with any of the following illnesses must be completely free of any symptoms before returning to daycare. If the child is taking antibiotics for an illness, the child may return to daycare after the initial 24 hours of beginning antibiotics only if he or she has no fever (under 100F), no longer contagious, and is otherwise feeling well enough to participate in our daily schedule. Signs of illness include the following; unusual lethargy, irritability, persistent crying for no reason, runny nose (more than clear), cough (more than slight), difficulty breathing, diarrhea, vomiting, mouth sores, rashes (note from doctor stating non-contagious is ok), pink eye, chicken pox, mumps, measles, roseola, hepatitis A, impetigo, lice, ringworm, scabies, strep throat, scarlet fever, tuberculosis, shingles, and any other contagious disease or rash. Any child with a fever of 101 degrees or above orally (in the mouth), 100-degree axillary (under the arm) tympanic(ear), may not attend daycare. State law requires that we notify parents of children who have been exposed to certain contagious diseases. Please notify us if your child becomes infected, so a note can be posted. *Parents must not medicate their child to make them appear well at drop-off. This is cause for immediate and permanently terminate the childcare agreement.
Activity Daily Schedule This schedule is meant to give you an idea of your child's day. Actual times and activities may vary depending on time of the year, weather, age, temperament and needs of the children. 5:30 - 8:00 Welcome Children; Structured/Free-Play; Active/Quiet Play; Child-Initiated Activities; (Individual or Group) 8:00 - 9:00 Breakfast; Clean-Up/Wash-Up 9:00 - 9:30 Morning Songs; Circle-Time; Calendar; Weather and Pledge (Active Group Play & Care-Giver Initiated Movement)
9:30 - 10:15 Preschool, arts and crafts, story-time, various learning games (Care-giver initiated) 10:15 - 11:00 Recess 11:00 - 12:00 Lunch; Structured/Free-Play; Active/Quiet Play; Child-Initiated Activities; (Individual or Group Play) 12:00 – 2:30 Naptime and/or quiet-time 2:30 - 3:15 Snack; Structured/Free-Play; Active/Quiet Play; Child-Initiated Activities; (Individual or Group Play) 3:15 - 4:00 Recess 4:00 - 5:30 Parent Pick-up; Preschool; Structured/Free-Play; Active/Quiet Play; Child-Initiated Activities; (Individual or Group Play)
Indoor & Outdoor Physical and Developmental Planned Activities We encourage and include all age participation in our activities as each child is different. Children will not be forced to participate in our activities but encouraged. Most importantly, our goal is to make learning for all ages fun, and non-intimidating. It is our hope that both you and your child will be as enthusiastic as we are about our program.
Infants, are given multiple opportunities daily to explore and participate in activities that are unrestricted and out of their play yard. We offer opportunities for physical activity with tummy time, reaching, grasping, pulling up, creeping crawling, and walking. Opportunities for visual stimulation with soft books, washable toys, unbreakable mirrors, and brightly colored floor blankets with mobiles. Opportunities for auditory stimulation with age-appropriate equipment or activities with verbal communication, soothing music, and musical or sounding toys. Opportunities for sensory stimulation with soft fabrics, textured toys, washable toys, and toy animals. Opportunities for small-muscle development with busy blocks, rattles, teethers, grasping toys, shaking, or squeezing toys, or cloth toys. Also, opportunities for large-muscle development with floor blankets, tummy time, crib, and play gyms. Whichever developmental stage your child happens to be in at the time. Infants and toddlers will also learn through play by utilizing flash cards, books, numbers, shapes, colors, the alphabet, stacking blocks, puppets, other age-appropriate toys, listening to music and much more. Because this is a multi-aged group, the fun continues with opportunities for your child to be a part of activities done with our pre-kinder group. Outdoor activities are weather permitting, and we play outside two times a day with individual mesh gyms, tummy time, outdoor bouncers and playing with age-appropriate toys. Toddlers are given multiple activity opportunities daily. Opportunities for thinking skills and sensory development with age-appropriate equipment or activities that include shape or item sorting toys, stacking, or nesting toys, puzzles with less than six pieces, washable board books, washable blocks, snapping and take apart toys. Opportunities for small-muscle development that are age appropriate with large-size washable crayons and markers, variety of paper and art materials, large paintbrushes, non-toxic playdough, toddler-sized washable cars and trucks, toy animals, and toy people. Opportunities for large-muscle development with age-appropriate equipment or activities that includes:
low climbing structures, small riding toys, toys for pushing or pulling, variety of light-weight balls for indoor and outdoor play, and rhythm. instruments. Opportunities for moderate to vigorous active play, both indoors and outdoors. Examples of age-appropriate activities include music, songs, simple games and dramatic or imaginary play that encourage movement such as dancing, running, climbing, stretching, walking, and marching. Opportunities for language development. Examples of age-appropriate equipment or activities include washable, soft animals or puppets, simple picture books, and pictures of familiar items and places. Opportunities for social and emotional development. Examples of age-appropriate equipment or activities include dress-up clothes and accessories, housekeeping equipment, unbreakable mirrors, washable dolls with accessories, items for practicing buttoning, zipping, lacing, and snapping, and baskets, tubs, and tote bags (not plastic bags) for carrying and toting. Also, opportunities to develop self-help skills such as toileting, hand washing, and self-feeding. Because this is a multi-aged group, the fun continues with opportunities for your child to be a part of activities done with our pre-kinder group. Outdoor activities, weather permitted, two times daily and listed below under preschool and in extreme weather. Pre-Kinder children, aged 3 & 4 years old, participate in several structured preschool curriculums. Frog Street is a daily professionally planned and themed preschool curriculum designed to be used in childcare homes and centers that is offered September through May. Carols Affordable Preschool Program is a daily professionally planned preschool program that is offered June through August. Scholastic My Big World are weekly themed magazines with planned activities and stories that is offered September through May. The above programs are blended alongside my personal program. This is to ensure the children are receiving even more opportunities that will help to prepare them for kindergarten in proper behavior, self-hygiene, education, and social skills. All programs are entertaining and educational activities designed to meet the individual needs, developmental levels and for all ages of children in care. Activities integrate all children with or without special care needs. It is designed to use both small and large muscles and balance of active and quiet play that incorporates group and or individual activities. Your child will enjoy activities ranging from art and craft projects, games, songs, finger plays, storytelling, creative dramatics, exercises, science, nature, math and reasoning activities, music and movement, language and reading activities, story CDs, shapes, numbers, colors, alphabet, and much more through various monthly themes. Some of these projects will be taken home to share with you, and others will be group activities that you can ask about. We know that children learn best by "doing". Therefore, the activities the children participate in are developmentally appropriate, concrete, hands-on, and most of all fun, because we believe that learning is an exciting experience. We know that children also learn through play and because of this, we do not underestimate the importance of opportunities to help the growing child's mind, body, and spirit. Therefore, the children have opportunities for both child-initiated/free-play activities and structured caregiver-initiated activities and the promotion of movement throughout each day. During structured-play/free-play we primarily have only one group of toys or activity out at a time, to allow the children to concentrate fully on each thing they do. Activities can be scheduled with the flexibility allowed to respond to the needs of each individual child and their various ages and needs. Additional daily activities include at least the following: Opportunities for outdoor play, weather permitting, 2 times daily. Opportunities for thinking skills and sensory development with age-appropriate equipment or activities that includes sand and water play, blocks, framed puzzles with up to 30 pieces, variety of large stringing beads, and simple board games. The opportunities for small-muscle development of age-appropriate equipment or activities that includes large non-toxic crayons, markers, paint, watercolors and various size brushes, collage materials, nontoxic play dough and tools, round-end scissors, glue and paste, different types of music and videos, rhythm instruments, and fingerplays. The opportunities for large-muscle development that is age-appropriate equipment or activities include small wagons, light-weight balls of all sizes, small wheelbarrows, tricycles, push toys, slides, climbing equipment, and outdoor building play scrapes. Opportunities for moderate to vigorous active play, both indoors and outdoors and age-appropriate active play include active games such as tag and hot potato, dancing and creative movement to music and singing, simple games and dramatic or imaginary play that encourages running, stretching, climbing, walking, and marching. Children’s opportunities for language development of age-appropriate equipment or activities include flannel board stories, puppets, and variety of storybooks, writing materials, and stories on CD. Opportunities for social and emotional development examples of age-appropriate equipment or activities include dress up clothes and accessories, mirrors, dolls, kitchen, indoor playscape, puppets, transportation toys, toy animals, and table games. We also provide opportunities to develop self-help skills such as toileting, hand washing, returning equipment to storage areas or containers, and serving and self-feeding. Outdoor activities include all sorts of fun activities that use both small and large muscles and balance of active and quiet play that incorporates group and or individual activities. This includes climbing, drawing with chalk, playing in the outdoor schoolhouse, riding in cars, bikes, scooters, sliding, jumping, running, balls, hoops, racing, parachute, catch, bubbles, follow the leader, ride-on toys, wagons, tunnels, neighborhood walks, exploring nature/weather, soccer, teacher lead movement and yes falling. As you know, children play hard and will get some bumps and bruises from time to time. We do our best to limit the number of times this occurs with constant supervision and watchful eyes. Due to the safe environment/toys we have surrounded ourselves with, we hope to prevent any injuries before they can happen. Weather permitting, we play outdoors every day two times a day. Appropriate clothes and shoes ensure safe participation in daycare activities. Parents should dress their children according to the day’s weather forecast (hot, cold, rain) and anticipated weather changes (layers, jackets, coats). Outfits for the day should ensure mobility without possible tripping. Children able to walk must arrive every day with regular shoes appropriate to the weather.
Extreme weather days
When bad weather occurs, children will have several options to replace outdoor physical activity time that will make use of both small and large muscles with balance of active and quiet play that incorporates group and or individual activities. With music time, indoor slide/playscape, coloring, drawing, children can match the speed and movements of their bodies to the tempo of the music, integrating exercise with numerous skills. Indoor Simon Says and Hot/Cold games also combine physical activity with listening and following instructions and Teacher Lead Movement and indoor stretching (yoga) provides fun exercise and musical movement. Texas Health and Human Services Minimum Standards require two opportunities for children to play outside each day, weather permitting. Unless there is rain, snow, substantial mud, or ice on the ground, children will go outside when the temperature is above 45° and the highest temp, is up the comfort of children. Young children cannot determine when they are too cold, hot or air quality, their safety and needs determine when and for how long children are outside each day. Usually, outdoor play is about 30 minutes or more per outing. If we know we will have a weather change later in day, then we usually adjust our morning outing longer.
Summer Fun
Wet Wednesdays~ Water Activities For children who are old enough and weather permitted, during the summer months of June through August, we have Wet Wednesdays. We will utilize the use of sprinklers, sprinkler pads and water table play. On these days if you would like your child to have sunscreen, it will need to be applied before drop-off. I provide towels but each child would need to bring some sort of clothing or suit to wear on our wet days that can be kept in their cubie. Diapered children will need water diapers. Always bring your child dressed for the day and we will change into our wet clothes when it’s time to go out.
Fun Fridays~ For children who are old enough, during the summer months we have Fun Fridays. Our outside fun is extended with a bounce house, bubble machine and fun summer music playing. For lunch pizza & popsicles are served.
Inclusive Services Children with special care needs with daycare recommended accommodations must have a health-care professional note. Or written plan from qualified professional affiliated with local school district or early childhood intervention program . We will utilize adaptive equipment that is provided for the child’s use. I am not responsible for the maintenance, repair or liable for breakage of any adaptive equipment. If the child receives early intervention services or special education services, can receive those services in my home if the need be. Activities here integrate children with and without special care needs.
Nap Time Infants sleep in provider provided Pack n Plays. I follow the Safe Sleep guidelines. Infants sleep on their backs unless you provide an Infant Sleep Exception form 2710 signed by the infant's health care professional. Infants placed on a firm mattress, with a tight-fitting sheet. Infants who are younger than 12 months of age have no items such as blankets, linens except tight fitting sheets. Do not use sleep positioning devices. Ensure that sleeping areas are ventilated and at a temperature that is comfortable. If an infant needs extra warmth, use sleep clothing: such as sleepers or footed pajamas as an alternative to blankets. Only one infant in a crib to sleep. Infants may use a pacifier during sleep. But the pacifier must not be attached to a stuffed animal. If the infant falls asleep in a restrictive device other than a crib/pack N play (such as a bouncy chair or swing or arrives to care asleep in a car seat), we move the infant to their pack N play immediately, unless you provide an Infant Sleep Exception form 2710 signed by the infant's health care professional. Actively observe sleeping infants by sight and sound. If an infant can roll back and forth from front to back, place the infant on the infant's back for sleep and allow the infant to assume a preferred sleep position. We do not swaddle an infant for sleep or rest unless you provide an Infant Sleep Exception form 2710 signed by the infant’s health care professional.
Toddlers & Preschoolers sleep on 4 legged cots. My goal is to have the two different age groups (24 months and older & younger than 24months) sleeping on the same afternoon nap schedule. Nap time for children 24months and older is during the time between 12:00pm and 2:00pm each day. Typically, children 24 months and younger will take a morning nap as well, moving toward a one nap a day schedule between 18 months and 24mths. Typically, children 6 months and younger may need a third nap during the day, which can be incorporated into their late afternoon schedule. Night care children will follow our family’s bedtime and rituals. Texas Health and Human Services requires that all children under the age of five at least have a rest period every day. No child will ever be forced to sleep; however, they are encouraged to remain quiet and on their mat during this time.
Nighttime Care At times I may have night care children. Activities and routines meet the unique needs of children in nighttime care. These may include quiet activities, such as homework, reading, puzzles, or board games; time for personal care routines and preparation for sleep, such as brushing teeth, washing hands and face, toileting, and changing clothes; and an evening meal, breakfast, and snack. Each child will have their own cot or crib and bedding. The children will be included in my families’ activities and meals.
Teacher/Parent Communication It is important that you feel comfortable with our policies, procedures, and your child’s care. If you do not understand something, have a concern, or you feel uncomfortable with one or more of our policies and/or procedures it is important that you express that to us before enrolling your child. I’m always open to suggestions and feel communication is a very important part of a quality daycare. If there are any problems or concerns in the future, I encourage you to talk to me about them. If a lengthy discussion is needed, a time that is convenient for both of us will be scheduled, as the other children still need my attention during business hours. Also, so I can provide the best possible care, please feel free to communicate any needs, wants and/or concerns regarding your child. It is only through good parent/provider interaction that good quality nurturing care can be achieved. I am available for face-to-face communication, phone, or texting while your child is in my care.
Reporting Child Abuse Everyone in my household is required by law to report any suspected incidents of possible child abuse or neglect. Your child can be questioned by child protective services at any time without your consent. You may also contact the local licensing office at 940-381-3400 or 1-800-252-5400 or file a complaint by website for Tx Abuse/Neglect at www.txabusehotline.org First Aid, Illness and Dental Emergency Procedures Emergency information is kept on file at the daycare and in my vehicle in case of emergencies. In case of illness or injury parents will be notified by phone at the telephone number that is on file with me. For children who sustain a minor injury that does not require medical attention (example of: minor cuts, scrapes, child bite and etc.) I will take the following steps: 1. First Aid will be administered, as necessary; 2. The parents will be told at pick up (If I forget please ask) For children who sustain a minor injury or illness that may require medical attention, I will take the following steps: 1. First aid will be administered, as 2. The parents or authorized person will be contacted 3. In the event that a parent or authorized person cannot be reached; a.) The child’s physician will be consulted for assistance; b.) 911 will be activated, if necessary; 4. An injury report will be completed, with one copy to you and one placed in your child’s file and if child did need medical attention, incident report turned in to Texas Health and Human Services. For Children requiring prompt medical attention, I will follow the following steps’ 1. CPR and/or First Aid will be administered, as necessary; 2. 911 will be activated if the injury is serious or life threatening 3. The parents or authorized person will be contacted 4. The physician listed on the child’s emergency information will be contacted if directed to by EMS. 5. An injury report is completed, and a copy is given to the parents as well as a call to Texas Health and Human Services. It is very important and your responsibility as the parent/guardian to update me with all emergency contact information and is correct. Please inform us immediately of any changes to keep your information current. Parents are responsible for all costs involved in emergency medical treatment, including emergency transportation if required.
Emergency Preparedness Kathy has written policies and procedures, which are practiced with the children, for dealing with emergencies and natural disasters. Our file box of parent information is always on the desk by the door for easy access and movement in case of an emergency. My van is also equipped with enrollment documents in an emergency. Parents will be notified of any emergencies as soon as children are safe, by phone at the telephone number that is on file with me. Evacuation plans and proof of drills are posted in the daycare. During an evacuation, relocation, or sheltering/lock-down my first responsibility in any emergency is to move the children to a designated safe area or alternate shelter known to all household members, caregivers, parents, and volunteers. During all emergencies your child will be treated as my own and surrounded with positive words of encouragement until all children are reunified with parents. Evacuation: Fire/Gas- My mailbox and further if needed. If by foot: After each child is accounted for, by using the parent sign in sheet, I will retrieve enrollment documents by door, then the children birth-24 months will be carried or held by hand and led to the mailbox and the older children will walk. I then can assist children in strollers, wagon and lead them away from area. Once we are all safe, 911 will be alerted, parents will be notified by my phone and so will the Department of Health and Human Services. In the event of an evacuation by vehicle it will be done using Mrs. Kathy's vehicle. The van has parent information inside for emergency contacting. After each child is accounted for by using the parent sign in sheet, children birth-24 months will be carried or held by hand and led to the van and the older children will walk to the van and use the emergency transporting routine. The transportation guidelines will be in place: attaching name tags, face checking/counting children, placing each child in seats, doing attendance with transportation sheet. Reverse steps when exiting.911 will be notified as soon as children are safe. Parents and the Department of Health and Human Services will be notified by phone once we are at a safe location. Sheltering/Lock-down: Kitchen pantry (tornado box also located). Unless told otherwise from emergency personal After each child is accounted for by using the parent sign in sheet, I will grab my file box and assist children birth-24 months by carrying or held by hand and led to the pantry and the older children will walk.911 will be notified of my home daycare if need be, Parents will be notified by phone once we are safe of the situation. Department of Health and Human Services will be notified if need be. Relocation: Relocation is to our family friend’s home located at 2421 Sherwood Street-Denton. In the event of an evacuation by vehicle it will be done using Mrs. Kathy's vehicle. The van has parent information inside for emergency contacting. After each child is accounted for by using the parent sign in sheet, children birth-24 months will be carried or held by hand and led to the van and the older children will walk to the van and use the emergency transporting routine. The transportation guidelines will be in place: attaching name tags, face checking/counting children, placing each child in seats, doing attendance with transportation sheet. Reverse steps when exiting. As soon as we are safe parents and the Department of Health and Human Services will be notified by phone. A notice by text with all information on the alternative site will be sent.
Directions to their home are as follows: From my community entrance take a right on to Teasley, left onto Dallas Dr., slight right onto Bell Ave., straight onto Mingo, left onto N Ruddell, right onto Palmwood, left onto Glenwood, left onto Mistywood Ln., right onto Sherwood St. and destination is on the left. If by foot: After each child is accounted for by the sign in sheet, I will retrieve enrollment documents by door, then assist the children to walk away from the home by: (holding hands or carried), wagon, strollers and/or child leash to assist in evacuation.911 will be called and once we are at a safe distance, parents will be notified by phone of status of location.
Emergency Transportation Procedure In an emergency children may be transported in the event of an evacuation emergency. Children will be transported by my family vehicle. The vehicle is equipped with first aid kits, fire extinguisher, personal cell phone and laminated enrollment information for each child in case of emergency. Before leaving the house, each child is given a name tag with their name on it. In the event of an emergency the children will be placed in available seating, name tags placed on, and parents notified of emergency transport situation. When a child is enrolled, their admission form, and allergy form (if applies) is shrunk down, laminated, and placed on key ring in van. A transportation tag is made, and child is added to transportation list. In the event a child needs picked up and by an unknown person to me, the release of child requirement must be followed
Departure
- Children line up at door and accounted for by using the daily sign in sheet.
- Transportation tags are clipped on to children’s back of shirts.
- We exit the door to load up into the van. Each child is accounted for and in the van, I close the door.
- I assist each child into their seats,
- I then pull out my transportation list and check everyone in one at a time with time of departure and mileage.
- Once the head count is taken, I exit the van and walk around to the driver’s seat. Making sure there are no objects out of my rear view or neighboring children.
- We depart from our home to our destination. A) If we exit the van, I exit my door with my transportation list and walk to the side door and open. I release each child from their seats, and they stand in each aisle. As the children are exiting their names are checked off list, standing next to me and my assistant. Even if all children are marked off, I still do a clean sweep of looking in each aisle. Once each child is accounted for, we walk to our destination where another head count will be taken and marked on our transportation sheet. During the trip, a constant head count is going. When it is time to depart, we follow steps 1 and 4-9A going back to the home daycare and inside. B) If we are not exiting the van, then when we return to my home, we will follow step 9A to exit the van to come bac into the daycare home.
7. Be given the contact information for the child care facility’s local Childcare Regulation office. 8. Inspect any video recordings of an alleged incident of abuse or neglect involving their child provided: *Video recordings of the alleged incident are available *The parent or guardian does not retain any part of the video depicting a child that is not their own * The parent or guardian of any other child in the video receives prior notice from the facility. 9. Obtain a copy of the facility’s policies and procedures handbook. 10. Review the facilities staff training records and any in-house training curriculum 11. Exercise these rights without receiving retaliatory action from the facility.
Miscellaneous * Understand that your child may be included in classroom evaluations by State Licensing officials, Head Start Program, Child Nutrition Inc. and other parents observing their right to our open door policy.
* Understand that your child may be included in pictures connected with our daycare program, unless otherwise specified by you the parent.
* This facility does not currently carry liability insurance.
Thank you for the opportunity to work with you and care for your little one. I look forward to a future of keeping your child smiling and safe.
Note: By signing the Policies/ Handbook, Parent-Provider Contract/Enrollment Application, it is understood that all the policies and procedures of Kathy Shilling (Kathy's Kids Clubhouse) handbook have been read, understood, and agreed upon. I understand this is a legal and binding contract.