Policies and Rates - Pre-K-Kidz, LLC

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Department of Early Education and Care Licensed Program
              Pre-K-Kidz LLC/Pre-K-Tots
Handbook of Policies and Procedures


  Please take a few moments and carefully read over the entire handbook. This handbook contains important information on program policies, payment schedules, behavior management, daily/holiday schedule and referral process. Pre-k-Kidz will supply you with additional information on any information in this handbook upon request.

At Pre-k-Kidz we believe that all children are perfectly designed, each with a unique temperament, nurturance and learning style, passions, talents and opportunities for growth. We provide a program geared to make the transition from home to school a happy and successful one. Every child is understood, celebrated and taught in a way that honors their essence and reveals their greatness. Our program is designed to help stimulate a good self-concept, providing each child with many experiences for achievement. Our children will work and create independently and learn to cooperate with others in a group. Our program will provide opportunities for social, emotional development, inspire language and expand physical and mental growth. We believe the attitude a child develops towards learning may help or hinder their ability to learn in the future. We cannot make a child learn, but we believe we can make them WANT to learn.

Enrollment/Capacity: Our Pre-K-Kidz Classroom is for 20 preschoolers age 3 to 7. In the summer we do enroll school aged children age 5 to 7. Our licensed capacity for Pre-K-Tots is 18 (ages 15 months to 6) however, the Pre-K-Tots rooms are for ages 24 months through 3 years old, until they are ready for the older room with Miss Becky! Our license and staff schedule are clearly posted in our classroom for your review.

Pre-K-Kidz is committed to equality of opportunity, inclusion for all, and the celebration of difference and diversity. Firmly anti-discriminatory practices ensure that our program is fundamentally inclusive in meeting the needs of all children, irrespective of ethnic or cultural heritage, social or economic background, gender, family structure, ability or disability.  We enroll children without regard to race, sexual orientation, religion, cultural heritage, marital status, national orientation or disabilities.

   Pre-K-Kidz Classroom Staff and their state certifications:
Rebecca David/Owner/Director/ Administrator ~ Lead Teacher Preschool & Teacher Infant/Toddler
Trevor Curtis Infant/Toddler Teacher & Lead Preschool Teacher
Veronica Rathburn Infant/Toddler & Preschool Teacher
Denise Rix Infant/Toddler & Preschool Teacher

Pre-K-Tots Classroomand their state certifications:
Ashley Tarr Lead Infant/Toddler & Lead Preschool Teacher/Director
Alina Timchenko Lead Infant/Toddler & Lead Preschool Teacher
Anahbel Anderholm Infant/Toddler & Preschool Teacher


Allison Tassinari Licensor 413-881-1538
EEC Large Group Licensure (413) 788-8401
   1441 Main Street Suite 2230, Springfield, MA 01103

     HOURS OF OPERATION
Our Tots program opens at 7:30am and closes promptly at 3:30pm Monday – Friday. The Pre-K-Kidz classroom opens at 7am for before school care and at 730am for preschool and closes at 330pm. Hours of child care needed will be set on the day of your child's enrollment. Please remember, you are contracting our program for specific hours and must abide by the hours you set for your child. If you need to change your contracted hours, you must discuss the change, and seek approval from the administrator before any schedule change can occur.


MEALS AND SNACKS
  Your child will be provided with healthy, nutritious meals and snacks while enrolled in our program. We provide breakfast, lunch and a PM snack and are part of the USDA food program the CACFP. If your child has certain dietary needs or restrictions please speak to the program administrator and fill out a special diet form. If the dietary needs are extreme you may be required to bring in all food for your child. IE: severe allergy or intolerance.

TOILETING
If your child is in the process of toilet training, please make sure that we have enough changes of clothes to last each day. Toilet training takes time, patience and consistency. In order for it to work we must work as a team and agree that the child is developmentally ready and follow set guidelines at school and at home consistently. A child should be able to do the following before they are able to be trained: have the vocabulary to express the need to use the bathroom, be able to stay dry for long periods of time (2-3hrs), and be able to dress and undress with minimal help. It is not a requirement that a child be toilet trained prior to enrollment.

● Children will be supervised by a staff member while in the bathroom facilities.
● The children will be given privacy while in the bathroom, assistance will be provided by staff members if needed.
● Staff will ensure that children wash hands with liquid soap and running water after each visit to the toilet, before/after meals and snacks and after outdoor play.
● Individual paper towels will be provided for each use.
● Staff will wash hands with liquid soap and running water after assisting children with toileting and use individual paper towels to dry hands and turn off water.
● Staff will wear disposable gloves when coming in contact with bodily fluids.
● Parents/Guardians will provide extra clothes for their child. The center will have spare clothing for emergency needs.
● No child will be forced to remain on the toilet or left in soiled clothes.
● No child will be punished or humiliated for soiling, wetting, or not using the toilet.
TOILET TRAINING PROCEDURES
● Toilet training will be done with consideration for each child’s readiness and with parental/guardian input regarding the toilet training of their child.
● No child will be coerced during toilet training, individual abilities of each child will be considered.
● Children will be supervised while toilet training, but privacy will be provided. Staff will assist as needed, wearing disposable gloves.
● Children will be praised for their efforts and accomplishments.
● Children and staff will wash hands with liquid soap and running water after each visit to the bathroom. Individual paper towels will be provided.
● Parents/Guardians will be kept informed of their child’s progress.
● Parents/Guardians will provide sufficient extra clothing for each day use.
● Staff will thoroughly sanitize potty chairs after each use with soap and water and standard bleach solution.
● Bathroom areas including sink, toilet and floor will be cleaned and sanitized daily with standard bleach solution.
STORAGE OF WET/SOILED CLOTHING
● Staff will wear disposable gloves when handling soiled clothing.
● When a child soils clothing it will be removed immediately and they will be given clean dry clothing.
● Soiled clothing, blankets, pillows, etc. will be double bagged and sent home at the end of the day to be laundered.
● Any clothing or items belonging to the center are required to be laundered by parent/guardian and returned promptly.
DIAPER CHANGING PROCEDURES
● Gather all the child’s needed diapering supplies prior to placing the child on the changing table or changing mat.
● Children will always be changed on the changing table or changing mat, never on floor or table top. A specific location will minimize the spread of germs.
● One hand will always be kept on the child while disposing of dirty diapers in a diaper pail or set aside to be double bagged.
● Using disposable wipe, wipe the genital area from front to back. Place wipes in diaper pail or set aside with diaper to be bagged.
● Apply ointment or powder if requested and provided by parent/guardian. Written permission from parent/guardian is required for all topical ointments.
● Apply clean diaper
● Wash the child's hands and place the child in the appropriate play or sleep area.
● Dispose of diapers and wipes in diaper pail or double bag and place in appropriate trash container.
● Staff will wash hands thoroughly with liquid soap and running water. Dry hands with disposable paper towels, using a paper towel to turn off the faucet.
● Return all child’s diapering supplies to storage and prepare for the next change by thoroughly washing down and sanitizing the changing area with soap and water, followed by a standard bleach solution.
● Record on diapering chart or daily record

  OPEN DOOR POLICY
  Please feel free to drop in or call the center and speak with your child at any time during the day. If you think that you may join us on any field trips or volunteer within our classroom, please see Rebecca David or Laurie Smith and fill out the proper background check release form. We will have many opportunities for families to share passions or special talents throughout the year, we hope you take advantage of these opportunities!! We always welcome your feedback and suggestions. We have a comment/suggestion box located in the cubby area for your convenience. We will send home a monthly calendar and newsletter. These items contain important information about things happening in our center and in the community, please read and feel free to discuss any questions or concerns with us at any time. If you have something you would like to add to our newsletter please have it in to us by the 3rd Monday of the month so we can discuss and add it to the next month's newsletter.
Please DO NOT send in toys/stuffed animals from home unless asked by a staff member. Your child will have many opportunities throughout the school year to bring in items from home to share with their classmates. A stuffed animal or comfort item can be brought in for quiet time only.


  INFECTION CONTROL POLICY
Children who exhibit symptoms of the following types of infectious diseases, such as gastrointestinal, respiratory and skin or direct contact infections, may be excluded from the Center if it is determined that any of the following exist:

* the illness prevents the child from participating in the program activities or from resting comfortably;
* the illness results in greater care need that the child care staff can provide without compromising the health and safety of the other children;
* the child has any of the following conditions: fever, unusual lethargy, irritability, persistent crying, difficulty breathing, or other signs of serious Illness;
diarrhea;
vomiting two or more times in the previous 48 hours at home or once at the center; mouth sores, unless the physician states that the child is non-infectious;
* rash with fever or behavior change until the physician has determined that the illness is not a communicable disease;
* purulent conjunctivitis (defined as pink or red conductive with white or yellow discharge, often with matted eyelids) until examined by a physician and approved for re-admission, with or without treatment; tuberculosis, until the child in non-infectious;
impetigo, until 24 hours after treatment has started or all the sores are covered;
* head lice, free of all nits or scabies and free of all mites;
strep infection, until 24 hours after treatment and the child has been without fever for 48 hours;
chicken pox, until the last blister has healed over.

A child who has been excluded from child care may return after being evaluated by a physician, physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner, and it has been determined that he/she is considered to pose no serious health risk to him or her or to the other children. Nevertheless, Pre-k-Kidz may make the final decision concerning the inclusion or exclusion of the child. All children are to be excluded from care for 48 hours for vomiting, fever or diarrhea.

If a child has already been admitted to the Center and shows signs of illness (for example: a fever equal to or greater than 100.5 degrees by the oral or axillary route, a rash, reduced activity level, diarrhea, etc.), he/she will be offered their mat, cot, or other comfortable spot in which to lie down. If the child manifests any of the symptoms requiring exclusion (as listed above) or it is determined that it is in the best interests of the child that he/she be taken home, his/her parent will be contacted immediately and asked to pick the child up as soon as possible. When a communicable disease has been introduced into the Center, parents will be notified immediately, and in writing by the Program Licensee. Whenever possible, information regarding the communicable disease shall be made available to parents. Program Licensee shall consult the Child Care Health Manual for such information. DPH must be contacted when there is a reportable communicable disease in your program. The program requires, on admission, a physician's certificate that each child has been successfully immunized in accordance with the Department of Public Health's recommended schedule. No child shall be required, under 102 CMR 7.00 to have any such immunization if his parent(s) object, in writing, on the grounds that if conflicts with their religious beliefs or if the child’s physician submits documentation that such a procedure is contradicted. This must be maintained in the child’s file. No child will be admitted into the program without the required documentation for immunizations. (Childhood Lead screening must be done on all children; it is not considered an immunization). The program will maintain a list of children who have documented exemptions from immunizations and these children will be excluded from attending when a vaccine preventable disease is introduced into the program. The Massachusetts Immunization Program provides free childhood vaccines. The toll-free telephone number is 1-888 658-2850.

With written permission, insect repellent containing no more than 30% DEET will be applied sparingly to children. Spray will not be applied to hands to avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
Ashley Tarr and Alina Timchenko shall ensure that staff and children wash their hands with liquid soap and running water using friction. Hands shall be dried with individual or disposable towels. Staff and children shall wash their hands minimally at the following times:

a. Before eating or handling food;
b. After toileting;
c. After coming into contact with bodily fluids and discharges;
d. Before and after water play
e. After handling center animals or their equipment;
f. After cleaning.
g. Anytime to child enters the building from home, outdoor play, an appointment, field trip, etc.

Ashley Tarr and Alina Timchenko shall ensure that the specific equipment, items or surfaces are washed with soap and water and disinfected with a fresh, standard bleach solution (1/4 teaspoon per 1 qt.) using the following schedule:

1. After each use: a. Sinks and faucets used for hand washing after the sink is used for rinsing a potty seat; b. Toys mouthed by children; c. Mops used for cleaning bodily fluids; d. Thermometers

2. At least daily: a. Toilets and toilet seats; b. Sinks and sink faucets; c. Drinking fountains; d. Water table and water play equipment; e. Play tables; f. Smooth surfaced non-porous floors; g. Mop used for cleaning; h. Cloth washcloths and towels.

3. At least monthly or more frequently as needed to maintain cleanliness, when wet or soiled, and before use by another child: a. Cots, mats or other approved sleeping equipment; b. Sheets, blankets or other coverings; c. Machine washable fabric toys.

PLAN FOR INFECTION CONTROL
All staff will wear non-latex gloves when they come into contact with blood or body fluids. Specifically, gloves should be worn during diapering and toileting. Gloves will never be reused and should be changed between children being handled. Proper disposal of infectious materials is required. Any disposable materials that contain liquid, semi-liquid, or dry, caked blood will need to be disposed of in the secured trash receptacle located in the basement of the building. The bags should be removed and securely tied each time the receptacle is emptied. Cloth items that come into contact with blood or bodily fluids will be double bagged and sent home. Each staff member will be trained in the above Infection Control Procedures upon employment and before working with the children and then annually.


  PLAN FOR ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION
Prescription Medication:
A. Prescription medication must be brought to school in its original container and include the child’s name, the name of the medication, the dosage, the number of times and the number of days the medication is to be administered. This prescription label will be accepted as the written authorization of the physician.
B. The Center will not administer any medication contrary to the directions on the label unless authorized by written order of the child’s physician.
C. The parent must fill out the Authorization For Medication Form before the medication can be administered.

Non-prescription Medication
A. Non-prescription medication will be given only with written consent of the child’s physician. The Center will accept a signed statement from the physician listing the medication(s), the dosage and criteria for its administration. This statement will be valid for one year from the date that it was signed.
B. Along with the written consent of the physician, the Center will also need written parental authorization. The parent must fill out the Authorization for Medication Form, which allows the Center to administer the non-prescription medication in accordance with the written order of the physician. The statement will be valid for one year from the date it was signed.
C. The Center will make every attempt to contact the parent prior to the child receiving the non-prescription medication unless the child needs medication urgently or when contacting the parent will delay appropriate care unreasonably.

Topical Ointments and Sprays
A. Topical ointments and sprays such as petroleum jelly, sunscreen, and bug spray, etc. will be administered to the child with written parental permission. The signed statement from the parent will be valid for one year and include a list of topical non-prescription medication. Bug spray and/or spray lotions will be applied outside.
B. When topical ointments and sprays are applied to wounds, rashes, or broken skin, the Center will follow its written procedure for non-prescription medication which includes the written order of the physician, which is valid for a year, and the Authorization for Medication Form signed by the parent.

All Medications
1. The first two doses must be administered by the parent at home in case of an allergic reaction.
2. All medications must be given to the teacher directly by the parent.
3. All medications will be stored in the kitchen, out of the reach of children. All medications that are considered controlled substances must be locked and kept out of reach of children. All lifesaving medications will be kept together if possible and stored out of reach of children and will be located by main exit. These medications will accompany staff to any outdoor activities, field trips or evacuation.
4. Classroom Lead Teacher will be responsible for the administration of medication.
5. The Center will maintain a written record of the administration of any medication (excluding topical ointments and sprays applied to normal skin) which will include the child’s name, the time and date of each administration, the dosage, and the name of the staff person administering the medication. This completed record will become part of the child’s file.
6. All unused medication will be returned to the parent. If the medication cannot be returned to the parent, the program will dispose/destroy medication according to label instructions and will keep documentation of the disposal in the child’s file. If needed, the program can contact the local DPH office for assistance with disposal.
7. Each person who administers medication must be trained to verify and document the 5 rights of medication administration. All staff must be trained to recognize medication side effects.
8. Each person who administers medication other than oral, topical or Epi pens must be trained by a health care practitioner and must demonstrate annually, satisfactory competence in the administration of such medications.

PLAN FOR MILDLY ILL CHILDREN

Children who are mildly ill may remain in school if they are not contagious (refer to Plan For Infectious Disease) and they can participate in the daily program including outside time. If a child’s condition worsens or, if it is determined that the child poses a threat to the health of the other children, or if the child cannot be cared for by the classroom staff, the Program Administrator or Lead Teacher will contact the child’s parent/guardian. The parent/guardian will be asked to pick up the child. The child will be cared for in a quiet area until the parent/guardian arrives to take the child home. Any toys, blankets, or mats used by an ill child will be cleaned and disinfected before being used by other children.

  PLAN FOR MEETING INDIVIDUAL CHILDRENS SPECIFIC HEALTH NEEDS

During intake, parents will be asked to record any known allergies on the face sheet. The face sheet will be updated yearly. Any child with a chronic medical condition which had been diagnosed by a licensed health care practitioner must have an Individual Health Care Plan (IHCP) that describes the chronic condition, its symptoms, any medical treatment that may be necessary while the child is in care, the potential side effects of the treatment, and the potential consequences to the child’s health if the treatment is not administered. For each child with an IHCP, staff must be trained either by the child’s health care practitioner or by the parent/guardian (with the healthcare practitioner’s written consent), on the specifics of the chronic medical condition including the medications needs and any other treatment needs of the child. All allergies or other important medical information including emergency medications will be posted in each classroom, on the refrigerator in the kitchen, and on the snack storage cabinet. Allergies list will be updated as necessary as new children enroll and as allergies become known. All staff and substitutes will be kept informed by the Program Administrator so that children can be protected from exposure to foods, chemicals, pets or other materials to which they are allergic. For a child with specific food allergies, the cook will inform the classroom staff of substitutions for snacks and lunches when completing weekly snack and lunch menus. The names of children with allergies that may be life threatening (i.e. - bee stings) will be posted in conspicuous locations with specific instructions if an occurrence were to happen. The Program Licensee will be responsible for making sure that staff receives appropriate training to handle emergency allergic reactions.

  MANDATED REPORTING
PROCEDURE FOR IDENTIFYING AND REPORTING SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

All staff members are mandated reporters according to Massachusetts General Law C119, Section 51A. This means that if a staff member has a reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect of a child, he/she must file a report with the Department of Children and Families. The following procedure will be followed:

1. A staff member who suspects abuse or neglect must document her observations, including the child’s name, date, time, child’s injuries, child’s behavior, and any other pertinent information. The staff member will discuss this information with Laurie Smith and Rebecca David. a. Rebecca David with the assistance of Laurie Smith will make a verbal report to DCF, to be followed by a required written report 51A within 48 hours.
2. Department of Children and Families Telephone #800-792-5200
3. If a staff member feels that an incident should be reported to DCF and Laurie Smith and/or Rebecca David disagrees, the staff member may report to DCF directly.
4. All concerns of suspected abuse and neglect that are reported to DCF will be communicated to the parents by Rebecca David unless such a report is contraindicated.
Procedure for Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse/Neglect while in the care of the Center It is the Center's commitment to protect all children in care from abuse and neglect. The following are procedures for reporting suspected child abuse/neglect while the child is in the Centers care. Any report of suspected abuse or neglect of a child will be immediately reported to the Department of Children and Families and the Department of Early Education and Care. A meeting will be held with the staff member in question to inform him/her of the field report. The staff member in question will be immediately suspended from the program with pay pending the outcome of the DCF and EEC investigations. If the report is screened out by DCF, Rebecca David has the option of having the staff member remain on suspension pending the EEC investigation or allowing the staff member to return to the classroom. This decision will be made by Rebecca David and will be based on the seriousness of the allegations and the facts available. If the allegations of abuse and neglect are substantiated, it will be the decision of Rebecca David whether or not the staff member will be reinstated. All staff members will cooperate fully with all investigations.
MAINTAINING A SAFE ENVIRONMENT
We follow all EEC requirements related to safety. Most of these requirements outline common safety precautions such as; making dangerous material inaccessible to children, covering outlets, having a first aid kit readily available, practicing evacuation drills, gating stairs, windows and/or heating elements. We also post emergency numbers, maintain a clean, hazard free indoor/outdoor space.

EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURE
In the event of an emergency, such as a fire everyone must leave the building immediately. Staff count the children and procced to the fenced in play area and recounts the children. Daily attendance records are maintained by classroom Lead Teacher, and are kept accessible at the nearest exit with lifesaving medications. Upon evacuation, the daily attendance record is taken outside to verify the children in attendance. Ashley Tarr, Rebecca David will close doors, windows, check bathrooms and all classroom areas for stragglers. Emergency information and lifesaving medications for all children and staff shall accompany her upon evacuation. It is also the responsibility of Ashley Tarr/Rebecca David to have the emergency cell phone upon evacuation. Ashley Tarr/Rebecca David will contact the appropriate authorities using a cell phone to determine if the building is safe to reenter. If the building is not safe, children will be walked to the Athol Public Library, 568 Main Street, Athol, 978-249-9515, and the policy for meeting potential emergencies will apply. Evacuation drills are practiced monthly, using both front and back door escape routes. The date, time, effectiveness of the drill, route taken and number of children in attendance for the drill will be documented in a central log. Evacuation procedures and escape routes are posted by every exit. Exit the back door, straight to fenced in play area Exit the front door, turn left, and left again. Continue straight to fenced in play area.

PLAN FOR MEETING POTENTIAL EMERGENCIES
This plan includes but is not limited to, situations such as a missing children, fire, natural disaster, loss or heat/water or situation (chemical spill, bomb threat, etc.) necessitating evacuation of the building: Upon evacuation of the center, we will follow the above procedures for emergency evacuation. Laurie Smith will be responsible for contacting the appropriate authorities to determine if the natural disaster necessitates a “shelter in place” or an evacuation of the premises. If the situation is such that returning the children to the center will not be possible, children will be relocated by foot to the Athol Public Library, 568 Main Street, Athol, MA 978-249-9515. Rebecca David will take the emergency information to the nearest phone or use a cell phone to begin contacting parents/guardians. Ashley Tarr, Alina Timchenko and additional staff will stay with the children while parents/guardians are notified to pick up the child and will remain with children until they are picked up. In the case of a power outage, loss of heat, water or other such situation the center will be closed. Parents will be notified to pick up the children as soon as possible. Children will remain at the center until parents/guardians arrive.

LOCK IN PROCEDURE
If an emergency should arise that we must remain inside the center, it is the responsibility of Rebecca David to turn off all emergency shutoff valves if necessary. Rebecca David will contact the appropriate authorities and then will immediately notify Rebecca David and start notifying parents that a “lock in” has occurred and what the authorities have instructed the center to do. The center will remain stocked with adequate food, water, blankets, diapers, first aid supplies and extra clothing to sustain all children and staff for 3 days.

PLAN FOR MISSING CHILDREN
Staff keep accurate attendance on an attendance sheet and use this sheet to perform head counts when exiting to any outdoor activity and when returning to the building afterwards. Staff also uses this attendance sheet and perform head counts when evacuating and returning during monthly drills. Periodic head counts are also performed by staff throughout the day so that educators are constantly aware of how many children are in their care at any given time. If at any time the head count does not match the attendance records, a recheck of the attendance sheet and another head count is performed. Any available staff are called upon to locate the missing child, while maintaining state ratios. If the search for the missing child requires going off of the property or extends longer than ten minutes, Rebecca David will contact the 911/police and child’s parents/guardians.

EMERGENCIES WHILE OFF SITE/FIELD TRIP
If an accident or acute illness occurs while on a field trip, the lead teacher will take charge of the emergency, assess the situation, and give first aid as needed. The method and urgency of transportation for the child to receive medical treatment will be determined by the lead teacher based on the severity of the emergency or illness. If necessary, an ambulance will be called. As a preventive measure, prior to departure from the center, the program director and. or lead teacher will determine appropriate guidelines to be followed during the field trip to insure continuity and safety of the children including:
A first aid kit will be taken on all field trips. Emergency information, including contacts and telephone numbers, will be taken on all field trips. On a field trip, staff must have a working cell phone available.

PLAN FOR INJURY PREVENTION
The Program Directors will monitor the outdoor playground and remove any hazards prior to any children using the space. No smoking is allowed on the premises. Toxic substances, sharp objects matches and other hazardous objects will be stored out of the reach of children. A first aid kit and emergency contacts and telephone numbers for the children will be taken on all field trip. An injury report for any incident which requires first aid or emergency care will be maintained in the child's file. The injury report includes the name of the child, date, time and location of accident or injury, description of injury and how it occurred, name(s) of witnesses, name(s) of person(s) who administered first aid and first aid required. Staff should use the Accident/Injury Report Form to record the above information. Staff should submit the completed form to the Program Director for review. Once the Program Director has reviewed the Accident/Injury Report form and has signed it, it should be given to the parent. The parent should be allowed to review it, sign it, and then be given a copy.

WRITTEN PLAN FOR REFERRALS
Teachers and staff are always making observations of your child while in our classroom. If a child shows signs of having difficulty of any kind, it is the responsibility of our staff members to bring any concerns to the attention of Rebecca David for preschool and Alina Timchenko for toddler. Rebecca David and/or Alina Timchenko will act as center liaison for any referral. After discussing the concern with the staff member, It will be decided if the parents/guardians need to be called in for a meeting. If a meeting is necessary, Rebecca David and/or Alina Timchenko will contact the parents/guardians to set up a meeting.

Alina and Rebecca will assist the parents/guardians in the process of looking for the appropriate help. Staff will also help document all evidence of an existing concern and continue to record any further unusual behavior or developments. After obtaining written permission from parents/guardians, staff will assist the parents/guardians in finding such help. Referrals to an appropriate school, mental health, educational and medical services may include but are not limited to referrals for dental checkup, vision screening and auditory screening. All behavior conversations with parents/guardians and/or recommendations will be documented and maintained by Rebecca David/Alina Timchenko and filed in the child’s records.

There will be follow up on recommendations by asking what action had been taken and what the results were. This information will be added to the initial report. This assures that the situation is being handled by experts, and allows the parents/guardians an opportunity to ask for additional help solving the problem. If the child is under three years of age the parents/guardians will be informed about the Early Intervention program. Upon written request of the parents/guardians, the child will be referred to an appropriate agency. Depending on the results, and after recommendations have been made, a determination will be made as to whether the child’s needs can be met at our center. Any efforts and/or accommodations made by our center will be documented and added to the initial report. With written permission from parents/guardians the lead teacher will contact the agency or service provider who evaluated the child for consultation and assistance in meeting the child’s needs. Any individualized plan for the education of the child will be maintained in the child’s file along with the initial documentation and referral information. The child’s progress will be reviewed every three months, and will be recorded in the child’s file. In the event that our center cannot meet the needs of the child, in the opinion of the center, parents/guardians and/or referral agency, the child may be terminated from the center. All behavior which was observed, all recommendations made, conversations held, and all concerns, actions and results will be documented and maintained in the child’s file. A current list of referral agencies is available at our center. Please be advised that we do not make these referrals lightly. We spend several months, sometimes up to a year observing and evaluating your child's development. When we make a referral, we are doing so for the benefit of your child.

Before a child with special needs and/or accommodations enrolls at Pre-K-Kidz, the parents/guardians will meet with Alina Timchenko/Rebecca David to collaborate and make sure the needs of the child can be met in our program environment. To make this determination, Wendy may ask the parents/guardians for written permission to speak with or obtain written records from the child's service providers. Any accommodations such as staff training or creation of an individual health plan will be put in writing and recorded in the child’s file.

Our doors are always open to any and all medical/behavioral/PT/OT/DCF/DDS/Speech personnel that may need to see your child during program hours. Written permission from parents/guardians will be required for any services occurring during program hours. Pre-K-Kidz will also require copies of all treatment plans for our program records. These copies will be kept in your child's personal file and only be viewed by approved staff and state agencies with written permission. Please know that Pre-K-Kidz will be available to answer any questions, attend medical or therapeutic appointments, IEP/504 meetings etc., pertaining to your child's development. We will also provide the parents/guardians with any and all necessary documentation needed for personal or medical use, to include but not limited too; observations, assessments, progress reports, behavior management plans etc.

CHILDREN’S RECORDS
DEEC requires us to maintain an individual written record for every child in our program. These records include enrollment forms, progress reports/portfolios, incident reports, referrals, medical information, any court papers pertaining to your child, etc. Records are updated annually on or before the anniversary of admission. Parent/Guardian will review all the information for accuracy, update any new information and sign and date for that school year. A current photo of the child will be required as well as an updated family photo. Parent/Guardian has the right to access their child's records at any time. Parent/Guardian has the right to add or delete, change or request information within your child's records. Parent/Guardian has the right to request copies of your child's records at any time. A reasonable fee may apply. Your child's records will stay with the program for the whole duration of your child's enrollment. At the conclusion of your child's enrollment, the Parent/Guardian can sign a record release form to get a copy of the childs entire records file. DEEC requires the original file to stay on site for five years after the child leaves the program.

PROGRESS REPORTS
Progress reports will be issued every six months, unless your child has special needs, or an infant/toddler then a report will be issued every three months. These reports will include a detailed assessment of your child’s growth and development and academic achievements. Parent teacher conferences will also be scheduled in November and April. At this time, you will have the opportunity to receive a copy of your child’s progress report, academic portfolio and discuss any concerns you may have about your child’s progress with the classroom teacher. You have the right to schedule a parent teacher conference any time during the year that you feel it necessary.

QUIET TIME
All children are required by state regulations to have a quiet time at some point during the school day if they are a full-time student. Pre-K-Kidz quiet time is every day from 1:00 - 2:30pm, Pre-K-Tots quiet time is from 1230 to 230pm. If you feel your child needs a longer rest period, please let a staff member know. All preschool children will be woken up by 2:30, if they are still sleeping. Toddlers will be woken up by 3pm. Children that do not sleep will be offered a quiet alternative to include but not limited to, books, puzzles and coloring activities. (this may vary with infant/toddler)

LEAD POISONING PREVENTION

All programs are required by DEEC to provide parents with information regarding the risks of Lead Poisoning. The following are some facts that all parents should know about lead and lead poisoning:

• Lead poisoning is caused by swallowing or breathing lead. Lead is poison when it gets into the body.

• Lead can stay in the body for a long time. Young children absorb lead more easily than adults. The harm done by lead may never go away. Lead in the body can: hurt the brain, kidneys, and nervous system, slow down growth and development, make it hard to learn, damage hearing and speech, cause behavior problems.

• Most of the lead poisoning in Massachusetts comes from lead paint dust in older homes. Many homes built before 1978 have lead paint on the inside and outside of the building.

• When old paint peels and cracks, it creates lead paint chips and lead dust. Lead dust also comes from opening and closing old windows.

• Lead dust lands on the floor. Lead gets into children’s bodies when they put their hands and toys in their mouths. Children can also breathe in lead dust. Children between the ages of 9 months and 6 years are most at risk.

• Important: Home repairs and renovations also create lead dust.

• Most children who have lead poisoning do not look or act sick. A lead test is the only way to know if your child has lead poisoning. Ask your doctor to test your child for lead. Some children may have:

o Upset stomach

o Trouble eating or sleeping

o Headache

o Trouble paying attention

As mentioned earlier, if your child is over nine (9) months of age, you will need to provide documentation to me that your child has been screened for lead poisoning. Most children will be screened annually until either age three (3) or four (4), depending on where the child lives.

For more information on lead poisoning, you can visit http://www.mass.gov/dph/clppp or call the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at (800) 532-9571.

BACK UP CHILDCARE
Please have a plan for your child prearranged in the event that your child is ill, our program has an emergency closure, or closed for a holiday or vacation. If the program has to close because of an emergency; weather, power outage etc. you will NOT be required to pay for those missed days. Scheduled closings such as holidays or vacation days are PAID days and your tuition for that week stays the same. We understand it can be difficult to find back up care, we can provide a list of other licensed providers that may be able to help.

ARRIVAL
For your child's safety, we require that you or an authorized adult bring your child into the center each day and get them settled. All children must arrive by 830am to ensure full participation in all activities including breakfast. Please make sure a staff member has signed your child in before you leave. Please call the center before 8:30am if your child is going to be absent for that day. If you DO NOT call by 8:30am the program will assume that your child is absent for the day and will continue with scheduled activities. We understand that sometimes appointments will arise, and your child may be late to school, this is perfectly acceptable. Please advise the staff ahead of time so we can plan accordingly for your child. If your child is absent from school, it is a PAID day and your weekly tuition stays the same.


DISMISSAL/LATE POLICY
Pre-K-Kidz, LLC will only release a child to parent/guardian, unless written and verbal permission has been given. Anyone other than the parent/guardian that will be picking up your child MUST present legal photo identification upon request, identification will be copied and placed in your child's record. It is important that you arrive on time every day for your child's scheduled pick up, and that must be before 330. Please be advised that our staff and their families have obligations and appointments to attend to after working hours. If there is an emergency situation and you know that you are going to be late, please call the center immediately. If you are late for ANY reason a $5.00 fee will be added for every 15 minutes after your scheduled pick up time. If late pick up occurs three times, the amount will change to $5.00 every 10 minutes or a portion thereof. If being late continues after the first offense, the fee will change to $5 every 5 minutes. A late fee does not compensate us for missing our after-work obligations. We do not charge such steep late fees to make money, we do so to discourage tardiness. The late fee is due the next day your child attends school. Care will not continue until we have received late compensation. Continued late pick up can be cause for termination of your child care enrollment.


DRESS CODE
Dressing your child appropriately for the school day is extremely important. We encourage families to dress their children in clothing that can get messy, dirty and that promotes and encourages independence for their child. Please DO NOT send your child to school in clothes that are expensive, or you do not want ruined. Shoes and clothing should fit properly and be easy for your child to independently take on and off. We ask that you keep an extra jacket or sweatshirt at school for our ever-changing New England weather. A change of weather appropriate clothes should be always kept at school. This should include a pair of socks, underwear, pants/shorts and shirt. We do not allow flip flops or backless/toeless shoes at school. We encourage shoes with velcro straps or that can be pulled on and off with ease. Laces can be time consuming for staff and pose safety issues for children. Velco sneakers are the BEST!! Children's clothing should fit appropriately and comfortably. Tight pants/jeans or overalls make it difficult for children to use the bathroom independently. Dresses should be worn with leggings or shorts underneath, not tights. Children should have a pair of hard soled indoor shoes/slippers for inside only use to help with the spread of germs and dirt. Please leave a pair of “School shoes” at school.

USE OF VOLUNTEERS/ASSISTANTS
All permanent assistants and/or reoccurring volunteers will comply with all background check obligations and health requirements that the state requires. We will let you know in advance if I will be using a new assistant/volunteer within our classroom. Although they will not be directly responsible for the care of children in the program, they will be on the premises and assisting with classroom activities. Volunteers will NEVER be left alone with children for any reason, and will be under the direct supervision of the licensee and/or lead teacher.

TRANSPORTATION
It is the responsibility of the child’s parent/guardian to provide transportation to and from the center each day. Children will be transported on foot to any day trips or outings occurring during center hours.

  TUITION
Tuition payments are due on the first day of the week your child attends school, IE Monday or Tuesday. Please note that our program runs year-round excluding weekends. If your child is absent for ANY reason, or if the program is closed due to a scheduled holiday, vacation or professional development day, your weekly tuition does not change, and you still need to pay for the entire week. In the event of a staff or center emergency, IE; illness, weather, power outage etc. and the center cannot open, you will not be required to pay for that day. A fee of $5.00 a day will be added to any payment not received on time. Your child may be excluded from care until payment is received in full unless an agreement for payment has been arranged with Rebecca David. Any such agreement shall be documented, signed by both parties, and attached to your child’s enrollment contract. If payment has not been received IN FULL including all late fees, the program has the right to terminate care immediately and without notice. Returned checks and failed automatic payments will receive a one-time fee of $25 and is considered a late payment and will receive late fees until payment is made in full.

TERMINATION PROCESS/NOTICE
If you wish to terminate services with our program for ANY reason or at ANY time, you may do so with the required 2-week notice. Please submit your notice in writing to Rebecca David 2 weeks prior to termination. If you decide that your child will not be attending during those final 2 weeks, that is your choice, but you are REQUIRED TO PAY the 2 weeks’ notice. If we terminate your child from our program, we are also required to give you a 2-week notice. We will do so in writing, 2 weeks prior to termination. Reasons for termination are, but not limited to; extreme aggression towards staff or other children, parent failure to abide by program policies, nonpayment of tuition or late fees, child not adjusting to our program and if our center cannot meet the needs of your child. Each situation is different and if there is ever any issue a proper parent/teacher conference will occur and options will be discussed. During this meeting parents/guardians and staff will work together to develop strategies/accommodations to assist the child in the matter being discussed. Center will also provide parents/guardians with information in regards to local supportive services that may be helpful outside of the program. Child will be considered on probation for the days following the meeting and can be immediately terminated if behaviors worsen or cause continual physical harm to anyone at the center. Accommodations/strategies will immediately be put into action. A daily notebook will accompany the child home, this notebook will contain a detailed account of the child’s day and will allow for parent/guardian reflection and input. After 3 weeks, another meeting will take place with parent/guardian and staff to discuss if progress is being made. If no progress has been made it may be determined that the center cannot accommodate the child’s needs, and the child may be terminated from the program. Termination is always a last resort we try our best to accommodate all our students to the best of our ability. We are not required to give you a 2-week notice for non-payment of tuition or late fees, if your child is on probation or if the child being terminated is causing continuous physical harm to staff, other children enrolled in our program or themselves.

We are required by law to notify Parent/Guardian if:

· An injury to your child occurs and/or first aid was administered
· Allegations of Abuse/Neglect regarding your child
· If a new educator is introduced to our program/will be caring for your child
· Communicable disease has been identified within our program
· Children will be taken off premises IE: field trip
· Whenever special problems or significant developments arise

BEHAVIOR GOALS
The goals for our child guidance policy are for our children to develop a positive self-esteem and socially acceptable ways of expressing their needs and feelings. The child guidance policy is preventative, not punitive, and designed to encourage the children to practice self-control, develop decision making skills, and take responsibility for their own actions. Common courtesy, respect for themselves, others and for property belonging to others, these are the values we believe in and will encourage the children to learn.

CHILD GUIDANCE PROCEDURES
The following guidelines and procedures are used to encourage positive behavior and discourage unwanted behavior.
· The environment combines consistent routines with clearly defined expectations. The children know what to expect from us, and what we expect of them.
· Instead of punishment, problem solving, and talking through situations is used to help children discover alternative behaviors.
· Praise, kind words, smiles, hugs, applause and other positive reinforcements such as our Kindness and Respect Chart, are constantly used to encourage desired behavior.
· Redirection to another area or activity is the first technique used when undesirable behavior occurs.
· Children will be redirected from any situation that will result in physical/emotional harm to themselves or others. Time will be spent helping the child calm down and discussing appropriate alternative behaviors.
· Thinking Area will only be used when other techniques have not been successful. Time in the thinking area will not exceed one minute for every year the child is old. IE: 3yrs old= 3 Min

At ALL times the Child Guidance Procedure will employ a loving, nurturing manner to encourage self-control, to teach self-respect, respect for others and property belonging to others. We understand that no single technique is going to be successful with every child or every time. However, if a child consistently exhibits unacceptable behavior, a conference will be requested with the child's parent/guardian to consider how to manage the unacceptable behavior.

When a child becomes physically aggressive, all other children will be removed from the area. Staff will do their best to escort the child to the “break” area where they can calm down safely. If a child continues to be physically aggressive, staff will call home to have the child picked up. Staff will document the incident and schedule a meeting with parents/guardians to discuss a safety plan to keep all the children safe and calm.

The following practices are strictly prohibited at Pre-K-Kidz:

(a) spanking or other corporal punishment of children;
(b) subjecting children to cruel or severe punishment such as humiliation, verbal or physical abuse, neglect, or abusive treatment including any type of physical hitting inflicted in any manner upon the body, shaking, threats, or derogatory remarks;
(c) depriving children of outdoor time, meals or snacks; force feeding children or otherwise making them eat against their will, or in any way using food as a consequence;
(d) disciplining a child for soiling, wetting, or not using the toilet; forcing a child to remain in soiled clothing or to remain on the toilet, or using any other unusual or excessive practices for toileting;
(e) confining a child to a swing, high chair, crib, playpen or any other piece of equipment for an extended period of time in lieu of supervision;
and (f) excessive time-out. Time-out may not exceed one minute for each year of the child's age and must take place within an educator’s view.


Information about our regulatory compliance history, you may contact our local EEC regional office at:    EEC Large Group Licensure (413) 788-8401 1441 Main Street Suite 2230    Springfield, MA 01103
You may also obtain your own copy of EEC regulations at: www.mass.gov/Eeoc/docs/EEC/regs_policies/20090122_606_cmr.pdf



PROGRAM RATES

Preschool Rates (2.9 to 7) $50 per day ($250 per week)

Toddler Rates (24 months to 3)

Monday through Friday: $325 Tuesday/Thursday: $130
Monday/Weds/Friday: $195

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