Handbook
Lollipop Kids
Child Care
Handbook
Welcome to Lollipop Kids Child Care. My name is Shannon Breeze, and I am a professional childcare provider. I am CPR and First Aid certified. To facilitate greater understanding between us I have created this handbook. It covers my childcare philosophies, business policies and expectations.
In order to make our relationship as enjoyable as possible, the following pages contain mutually beneficial requirements, which are necessary to ensure that there are no misunderstandings between either parties.
Please read this handbook carefully, and feel free to discuss with me any questions that you may have.
Hours
Mon-Fri 7-5pm
My Child Care Philosophy
As a family child care provider, my goal is to provide a safe and happy place for children where they can learn and grow physically, emotionally, intellectually, and socially at their own pace. I believe children learn through play and benefit from a structured yet flexible schedule. Activities will be offered which stimulate sensory motor development, language development and social interaction. The development of strong self-esteem is also a major goal. Children will be taught to respect each other, adults, and property.
Communication
Communication is very important to me. When I accept a new family into my business, I like to be sure that we can share openly any concerns or questions that may arise. It is important that there is a similar childcare philosophy between us. I welcome questions, feedback, or discussions of any kind that are oriented towards a positive outcome for your child (ren). Sensitive issues will be discussed in private outside of regular childcare hours either by telephone or conference.
Conferences will not be scheduled as a routine part of your child's care, however, should you want to have a conference, you may request one at any time. You are encouraged to call me at any time between the hours of 7am – 5pm to check on your child. The best time to call during the day is during our daily nap/quiet time. If you would also like to stop by on your lunch this is also encouraged! You can come and have lunch with your little one!
I am looking forward to a terrific relationship with you and your child!
Enrollment Policy
Due to the limited spaces available, weekly payments are based using or holding your slot, not on the child’s attendance. No refunds are given for late arrivals/early departures, parental vacations or exclusion due to illness. You must pay for your child’s scheduled time-Regardless of whether or not your child is here. Those days and times are reserved for your child.
****** There are several forms that I must have completed and in my possession before I care for your child. NO EXCEPTIONS. This is to ensure that your child will get the very best care possible from me. *******
You are also required to keep me informed of address and phone changes and other pertinent information listed on any/all of the above forms. If you have any questions regarding the completion of the forms, please feel free to ask.
Payment Procedures
Your specific rates will be outlined in your Contract and Rate Agreement.
Payment is payable in advance and is due no later than
Payments may be made by check or cash and should be made out to Shannon Breeze. Checks must be dated for the day they are due. No post-dated checks will be accepted. There will be a late fee of $10.00 per day for any payments received after the due date. If payment is not received by drop-off time on Monday, childcare will not be provided until payment and any applicable late fees are paid in full. You will be liable for any and all costs of collection with regard to delinquent tuition fees. Repeated late payments may be grounds for termination of childcare services.
The success of my business depends on the prompt payment of tuition for each child. Tuition and fees are computed with the following expenses in mind:
1. Food
2. Craft and activity supplies
3. Toys and Games
4. Energy costs and use of provider’s home
5. Additional time spent for record keeping and clean-up each day
6. Yard and playground up-keep (i.e. replenishing safety chip mulch, sod, maintaining and upgrading
playground equipment.)
Returned Checks
There will be a $40.00 fee for all returned checks. You are also responsible for any other fees that I may incur as a result of the returned check. This fee as well as the tuition that was due will be required within 24 hours upon notification of the returned check or childcare services will not be provided.
In addition, I will only accept cash or money order from that point forward
Discrimination
I will not discriminate against any child on the basis of their sex, religion, national origin, or disability.
Sanitation
I practice good sanitation guidelines such as washing my hands before preparing food after changing diapers, after being with a sick child, etc.. I also teach the children good sanitation habits such as washing hands before and after eating and using the toilet. All children wash their hands immediately upon arriving at my day care in the morning. Good sanitation is important to me and to the welfare of the children in my car
Open Door Policy
My home maintains an open door policy for parents during the hours in which childcare is provided. This means that parents are always welcome to call or drop in to see their children.
Open door policy does NOT mean that our doors will be kept unlocked. I believe that it is extremely important to keep the doors locked for the safety of the children and my home. I do not want unwanted or unexpected visitors to enter without our permission or knowledge.
Arrivals and Departures
It is normal for some children to have difficulty separating from parents. Please make your drop off brief, the longer you prolong the departure, the harder it gets. In my experience, children are always quick to get involved in play or activities as soon as parents are gone.
Please be brief at pick up times as well. Children will usually get very excited when their parents arrive to pick them up. At times, this can be a distraction to the other children and may result in children not following the house rules. Please remain in control of your child during pick up times.
Drop-off and pick-up times are not good times to discuss problems. Little ears and minds hear and understand everything. I am not comfortable discussing children in the presence of anyone except their parents. Topics that concern day-to-day events or light-hearted discussion are fine.
I will only release a child to his/her parent or guardian. If someone other than a parent or guardian will be picking up your child, I will need to be notified prior to the pick up time. If this person is not on the list of authorized persons to pick up your child, I will ask for identification. These precautions are designed for the safety of the children.
Funerals/Family emergencies/Illness
The provider will notify you as soon as possible if I will be closed due to illness or a funeral. Parents may wish to secure a back up provider for all of these situations. I will provide you with names of other licensed day care providers and you can call and interview with. You must have a backup provider lined up; there are times when I will close the daycare.
Absences
Please remember that you child’s attendance is based on the contracted times. If your child is sick, on vacation or just not coming in that day normal fees still apply. If your child will not be attending please call and let me know no latter than
Holidays and Vacations
Lollipop Kids Child Care will be closed each year on the following holidays:
New Year's Eve & New Year's Days (closed)
Memorial Day (closed)
Labor Day (closed)
Thanksgiving and the day after (closed)
Christmas Eve and day and the day after 3 days (closed)
Independence Day (closed)
Martin Luther King Day (closed)
President’s day (closed)
February 1st of every year (closed)
If the holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday that Friday or Monday will be closed. Example 1: New Years Eve on a Saturday and New years Day on a Sunday then we will close that Friday and Monday. Example 2: Christmas Eve on a Friday we would be closed and since Christmas day falls on a Saturday we would be closed that Monday.
Vacations
Tuition will not be adjusted for these holidays. When one of the above listed holidays falls on a Saturday, Lollipop Kids Child Care will be closed the preceding Friday. When a holiday falls on a Sunday, Lollipop Kids Child Care will be closed the following Monday.
I will also be taking vacation time throughout the year. There will also be days when I need to go to the doctor, dentists take my own children to their appointments, and these days you will need to use your backup daycare provider. Again you must have a backup provider lined up; there are times when I will close the daycare.
I will be taking vacations that may be taken together or separate in which no fee is due. You are still responsible for full payment when you are on vacation due to the fact that I am still open and I must hold your child slot until you return. I will notify you as soon as possible when I will be taking a vacation. I do not have to, but will try to help you find a qualified substitute if possible. I am allowed five personal days a year for illness, all day appointments, or emergences in which the regular fee is still due.
Substitute Child Care
Parents are responsible for providing their own back up care for illness, holidays, provider’s vacations, provider’s illnesses, and provider’s personal days. I will do my best, and to give enough advance notice. I will provide you with names of other licensed day care providers in the area and you can call and interview with.
Indoor Outdoor Play
Indoor Play: We have a play area designated for the children to play in. This room has plenty of toys and floor space for each child to play together with the other children or by themselves if they choose. With the exception of meals and outside play, the children will spend most of their day in the play area as it is easier to monitor and safer for the children to be in one area of the home. The children will be expected to clean up as needed throughout the day.
Outdoor play: We will be playing outside everyday that weather permits. Please make sure that your child is appropriately dressed for outdoors play at all times. During the colder months, our outdoor play will probably range from 15-30 minutes, and in the warmer months, we are normally outside for 1-2 hours each day. Outside activity and exercises for children are important for stimulation and exploration. They will only be permitted to play outside when the weather is dry. When the weather is over 90 degrees, outside activity will be limited as the health of the children is foremost
House Rules
Please respect my profession, my home, and me. The respect that you show me, including my home, furnishings, equipment, yard, and other children will communicate itself to your child and will make for a better working relationship. There are certain house rules that all children will be taught and expected to follow. This is for the safety and well being of everyone.
1. There will be no running or yelling permitted in the house.
2. Hitting, pushing, biting, grabbing, kicking, spitting, or pinching will NOT be allowed.
3. No standing, jumping or climbing on chairs, tables or furniture.
4. There will be no use of obscene, derogatory or disrespectful language.
5. Children may not walk around the house with food, cups or bottles.
6. Respectful treatment of other people and all property, toys, and furniture is expected. Willful destruction of property will be charged to the parent at the cost to replace the item.
7. My home is a smoke-free home therefore smoking will not be permitted on the premises.
8. My home is a no shoe home. If there is a need to walk around in my home for any reason, you must remove your shoes.
9. Children and families are welcome in any areas of the home that are used for childcare purposes.
Damages
It is expected that your child be respectful of my property and furnishings. A certain amount of “wear and tear” is normal, but if your child intentionally damages my property through destructive behavior or roughness, you will be liable for 100% of the replacement cost. This reimbursement is due with your next weekly payment.
Discipline
I maintain a positive discipline policy, which focuses on prevention, redirection, consistency and firmness. The children are explained the rules of the childcare home frequently, so they are all familiar with the guidelines. Please keep in mind that there WILL be disagreements between children. Young children frequently have a hard time expressing their feelings. Sometimes they hit, throw toys, bite, etc . Although teaching children appropriate behavior is enforced, remember that this behavior is normal, in most cases.
The following methods of discipline will be used: · Encourage children to solve problems themselves
· Intervention and discussion
· Re-direction to another play area
· Loss of privilege and Time Outs
Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES will there be any spanking, physical abuse, verbal abuse, name calling or isolation used.
Child Abuse/Neglect
It is law and also my responsibility as a childcare provider to report any and all abuse or neglect performed on a child. I can not turn my head to a child that has been abused or neglected. Therefore, I will notify Children’s Protective Services and the Police Department when it is obvious that a child in my care is being physically, sexually, or emotionally abused, neglected, or exploited. Please know that just because your child has bruises does not mean that I am suspecting something.
*****As a home care provider, I have a responsibility by law to recognize and report any evidence of child abuse, physical or emotional neglect. Even if I suspect I will need to call. This is strictly for the benefit of your child.
Termination Policy
I reserve the right to terminate childcare services for the following reasons (but not limited to):
1 Failure to pay
2 Failure to complete the required forms
3 Lack of parental co-operation
4 Failure of child to adjust to the center after a reasonable amount of time
(2 week probation period)
5 Physical or verbal abuse of any person or property
6 Child exhibits disruptive behavior
7 Lack of compliance with handbook regulations
8 Serious illness of childcare provider
9 Continuous late pick-ups
10. Blatent disrespect of Provider or Providers family!
11. If parents knowingly bring a sick child.
I would appreciate as much advance notice as possible when terminating, and will give the same courtesy in return.
Please give 4 weeks written notice of termination. The 10 days will be paid in full, regardless of whether or not the child is in attendance.
I will give 4 weeks written notice of termination for which full tuition is due, whether or not the child is in attendance. I reserve the right to give written notice of immediate termination where there are extreme circumstances that affect the well being of me, my family or other children in attendance. ** Cash only Payment **
Potty Training
I will assist in potty training with the understanding that it will only work if we work together. Your child will not learn if they do not do it while in my care and at home. You must work with your child at home, either during vacation or over a weekend before I will begin potty training here. Clothing should be easy to manage to encourage self help skills. I also require that each potty training child have a package of Pull Ups available. If an accident happens, I will place the wet or soiled clothing in a plastic bag for the parent to take home and wash.
Clothing and Attire
Children should arrive clean and fully dressed. Please do not send your children in pajamas (Unless we have a pajama day). Clothing should be comfortable and appropriate for outdoor play regardless of the time of year
Supplies
I supply everything except diapers, wipes, formula, clothing and medications. I ask that two sets of clothing are left here for warmer and colder weather.
Following is a list of things I have & provide:
*Smoke free environment
*2 Meals and 2 snacks
*CPR and First Aid training
*Daily reports
*Arts, crafts, books, educational toys, puzzles, computer toys and much more
*Out door play equipment
Bottles /Sippy Cups
Formula
Baby Food
Diapers (disposable diapers only)
Pull-ups
2 full sets of clothes (including socks and seasonally appropriate)
1 crib sheet (I supply play n pack sheets for infants)
1 pillow with case (if they use one)
1 blanket
2 blankets (infants)
Sunscreen
Swimsuit (May to September)
Towel (May to September)
Meals
Meals and snacks are included in your tuition at no extra charge. Meals will consist of breakfast, morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack.
Children who arrive after meal times should be fed before they arrive. I believe mealtime should be a pleasant time; therefore, children are always offered food but are not forced to eat it. I do encourage each child to try one or two bites of everything, and they must eat a little of everything before given seconds of anything.
Special Diets:
If a child has a particular dietary need, substantiated by a medical evaluation, I must be informed and given a doctor's note. Substitute meals or snacks may then be brought from home.
Breakfast 7-8
Morning snack 9-10
Lunch 11-12
Afternoon snack 2-3
Rest Periods
Children need a balance between periods of activity and periods of rest. Infants up to 18 months are provided rest periods each day based on their own schedule of asleep and awake time. Toddlers and Preschoolers are provided a period of rest from 1130 p.m. to 130 p.m. each day. For children too old to nap or who choose not to nap, quiet activities will be provided.
******If I am caring for your infant it is the law that when your child is sleeping that he or she will be laid on her back. This needs to be the same as home; your child will need to also be sleeping on his or her back.
Lollipop Kids Child Care does not provide transportation to and from the center.
Field Trips
There is a park close to my house that is in walking distance. The park is not even a half a mile from my house. Taking field trips to the park once a week on Fridays in nice weather would be a nice way to get the children out of the house.
Pets
I have the following pets in my home: 2 dogs. All my pets are up-to-date with their vaccinations. The dogs are children friendly.
Holidays
At Lollipop Kids Child Care we celebrate birthdays and holidays. Each child’s birthday is his/her special day. We will have a mini party and I will make cupcakes. If you would like to bring in something feel free, just let me know the day before. If the child’s birthday falls on Monday- Friday we will celebrate on that day. If it falls on a weekend we will celebrate the Friday before. We will also be celebrating all holidays throughout the year and we will learn about each one.
Daily Schedule
The main goal of this childcare is to have fun, improve social skills, and encourage creative expression. I will utilize a variety of activities to accomplish this goal. Free-play, reading, arts and crafts, music/singing, dancing, dramatic play/pretend.
Young children and toddlers enjoy a structured schedule that allows for flexibility. A schedule helps the day to flow more smoothly, allows the child to anticipate coming events, and aids in achieving a variety of goals. We will adhere to our schedule to the best of our ability, keeping in mind that anything can happen when children are involved. There will be times when we have to make adjustments to the schedule. We appreciate families considering our schedule when picking up or dropping off their children.
TV time is closely monitored. I allow Disney Channel, PBS and Noggin
A Typical Day:
Depending on the needs of the children, schedules are flexible and may very.
730-8:30AM Free play
830-9:00AM Music Time
9:00 – 10:00AM Outside play and Morning activities
10:00-11:00AM Arts and Crafts
11:15 - 11:30AM Lunch
11:30 - 1:30PM Nap/rest time - everyone participates
1:30 - 2:00PM Wake up
2:30 – 3:30 Snack and Preschool work, letter, numbers, colors)
3:30-4:00pm Story Time
Illness Policy
I operate a WELL CHILD FACILITY. This strong policy will protect all involved. Your compliance is appreciated, and you will be compensated with the assurance that all ill children will be kept at home. Please keep in mind that well children are demanding and sick children are even more so. PLEASE be fair to your child, the other children that come to the daycare and myself and do not bring your child to me when they are ill. One child’s cold could be another child’s bronchitis or worse.
Parent(s) understand that if a child is ill with any of the following the child will not come to daycare:
1. Fever (any temp higher than 101 within 24 hours)
2. Vomiting (any within 24 hours)
3. Diarrhea; (2 or more loose bowl movements within 24 hours)
4. Green mucus discharge from nose or eyes
5. Excessive crying
6. Fatigue children
7. Lice
8. Impetigo
9. Strep Throat
10. Scabies
11. Rash of any kind
12. Scarlet Fever
13. Chicken Pox
14. Ringworm
*****If your child is lethargic and looks sick please keep them home
I have the right to refuse to care for a sick child. If your child develops any of the above symptoms while in my care, you or your alternate will be required to pick up your child immediately. If the child is not picked up within an hour of my calling a $5.00 for every 15 minutes will be charged. If a child needs to be picked up because of illness, the child will also be required to stay home the next day. Your child may return to care after symptoms of the illness end. Your promptness will be greatly appreciated!!!!!!
Please note: This illness policy applies to my family and me as well. If I am unavailable due to illness, or a family emergency, I will give you as much notice as possible. I will try to avoid sick days, but some things are out of my control.
Medications
I will administer prescription and over-the counter medication to a sick child. The parent must complete a Medication Authorization form listing the type of medication, the dosage, the time of day it should be administered and any side effects or special instructions. If prescription I need a doctors note. All medication must be in the original, labeled container. If at all possible please give your child the medication at home. I will not administer Tylenol, Motrin, or cold medication. I believe that if a child is in need of these kinds of medications he or she should not be at child care.
Minor Injury and Emergency
Although I make every effort to keep the children safe through supervision and lots of safety features, minor bumps and scratches are inevitable. Minor injuries receive appropriate first aid, and an Injury/Accident report form will be completed and signed by the parent. This form will be kept in the child’s file.
If an injury or illness occurs that requires immediate medical attention, we will use 911. The parent will also be notified as soon as possible. If necessary, your child will be taken to the nearest hospital where you will be asked to meet us. If the parent can’t be reached, we will contact the emergency contact person listed on the Enrollment Information form.
Parents are responsible for all costs involved in medical treatment obtained for their child, including but not limited to transportation to hospital or medical facility.
Emergency Situation
In case of any emergency situation parents will be notified immediately. The safety of the children at Lollipop Kids Child Care is priority above all and everything will be done to maintain their safety.
Referrals
Referrals from a client are one of the best compliments I can receive. As a special thank you, I will offer families 1 free week of child for each referral that enrolls. Your discount will be deducted from your weekly fee after the referred child has attended for 4 weeks.
***After you have been with me for 6 months I will give you 3 days free you can use throughout the year! They cannot be used for consecutive days***
Special Note
The children that I care for in my home, I hope are all long term. I would like for you to know that at no time will your child be released from care without good reason. Usually it is a reason stated under the “Termination” section of the handbook. However, I reserve the right to terminate care for any reason that I feel would better serve your child. Because this is a business, I have to look out for all of the children in my care. This policy will insure all parents the quality of care their child is receiving. This will also give you peace of mind when you go to work, as to the type of environment your child will be cared in. I look forward to caring for your child and establishing and continuing a good relationship with you.
Please treat me as a PROFESSIONAL, this is my career choice. I am a child care provider not a “babysitter”.
Revision to Handbook and Contract
Lollipop Kids Child Care reserves the right to make changes to this handbook and contract, as I deem necessary. Every effort will be made to notify all parents at least two weeks before changes take effect.
By signing this contract, you agree to the terms and conditions outlined in the Parent Handbook. This contract will cover your child (ren)’s care for a term of one year from date of signature, unless otherwise noted. Tuition rates may change periodically at my discretion, but not during the term of this contract.
1 This agreement is made between:
Mothers Name Address Phone Numbers
Fathers Name Address Phone Numbers
OR
Guardian’s Name Address Phone Numbers
AND
Care Provider’s Name Address Phone Numbers
- Provision of child care for:
Child’s Name Birth date
Child’s Name Birth date
Child’s Name Birth date
Child’s Name Birth date
- Agreed Rate and Payment Policy:
Payment for the coming _____________________ will be made on ________________
(2 weeks, Month) (Each Friday)
or late fees will apply as outlined in the parent handbook.
- Deposit:
A deposit of ______________________ is required, which will be applied to the child’s
(two weeks tuition, or 1 Month tuition) last enrollment period. This deposit will be fortified if care is terminated with less than the 2 weeks notice.
This contract may be terminated at any time, for any reason by either party with proper notice. Proper notice will consist of written or verbal notice to the provider not less than two weeks prior to the child’s last day of care. If you choose to terminate care with less than proper notice, you agree to forfeit the entire deposit. In addition to the deposit, regular tuition charges will apply for the remaining time your child is in care and will be prorated for the number of days your child remains.
If at any time. After consultation with the parent or guardian, I feel that you and your child pose a safety risk to myself or any of the children in my care, I will give you as much written notice as possible that care is terminated. This action will be reserved for extreme cases only, and I will first attempt to resolve any issues with you before resorting to termination of care. Under these conditions forfeiture of the deposit will be at my
discretion.
- Effective Dates:
This contract covers your child’s care from ________________ through ________________
- Signature
By signing below, you acknowledge receipt of this Parents Handbook, and agree to the terms outlined in this contract and the Parent Handbook.
Parent or Guardian Date
Parent or Guardian Date
Care Provider Date
