Polly's Playroom
"A Playroom of Possibilities"
Early Learning Family Child Care
Thank you for taking the time to read the handbook. It will explain the "technical" side of Polly's Playroom. Throughout the year amendments may be made to accommodate any changes in PA law, updates and new rules. All new admendments need to be signed and dated. New handbooks and contracts can be downloaded via the website every September.
Welcome
Welcome to Polly’s Playroom. My name is Chanda Jones, and I am a professional
childcare provider, licensed by the State of Pennsylvania. To facilitate greater
understanding between us, I have created this handbook {and website
www.pollysplayroom.com}. It covers my childcare philosophies, business policies and
expectations.
I am so excited you have chosen Polly’s Playroom (A Family Daycare Provider) to fulfill
your child care needs. Caring for your child is a responsibility I take seriously. It is my
goal to provide a loving atmosphere that emphasis development of the whole child-mind,
body and spirit. I am dedicated in providing quality care and early learning for the children
of West Philadelphia and surrounding areas. I encourage you to become an active
participant in any of out activities/programs we offer.
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. The words "I" or "me" or "my"
refers to the childcare provider. The word "you" or "your" refers to the child's
parents or guardian. Please read the handbook carefully, as it will answer many
questions you may have concerning my policies and procedures. Feel free to
discuss with me any questions that you may have.
Child-Care Philosophy
For the child:
* To provide a safe environment and opportunities for being with other children in a
setting conducive to the development of wholesome social relationships
* To provide appropriate play experiences that contributes to the developmental
needs of the child.
* To provide opportunities for meaningful play that is based on the child’s
individual needs, interest, handicaps, and abilities and that will build important
foundations for future skills.
* To help develop positive self image, by letting children freely express their
Feelings
For the parent:
* To provide care for the child while the parents pursue their own work or other
interest.
* To provide opportunities to grow in the understanding of child development.
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. I believe that every child is a precious gift from God.
Admission Requirements and Enroll Procedures
The first 10 days of care are probationary for provider, parent, and child. This agreement
maybe terminated at any time during that period. Otherwise two weeks’ notice is
required if the child is to be permanently removed from this child care.
Two weeks’ fee will be accepted in lieu of two weeks notice, and in fact will be due with
notice of plans to discontinue enrollment. Except in the case of gross misconduct on
the part of either parent or child, provider will give two week’s notice prior to
cessation of care. Your fee will be due when notice is given.
Anytime you pick up your child after 6:00 p.m. you will be considered late. A fee of
$1.00 for every minute will be charged for each late pickup. Late pickups that are
prearranged will be charged at $10.00 per half hour and will be due at the time of pick
up.
Children may be in attendance a maximum of ten (10) hours per day.
Each child must visit my home for at least a half hour before placement to help reduce
separation fears.
Authorization for field trips, walks, ect.
If we agree that the child will be placed, the parents must provide the following:
*A completed registration form
* A complete record of age-required immunizations
* Authorization to receive emergency medical care
* Date of last physical exam which must be filled out by
licensed physician and promptly returned.
* Authorization for field trips, walks, etc.
* A change of clothes (appropriate for the weather)
* 2 boxes of tissues and 2 packs of disposable wipes
All Parents are required to sign a payment agreement prior to enrollment. A registration
fee of $40 one child / $55 Family (2 children), and first weeks payment are required.
There is no credit given for vacations, scheduled holidays, child illness, or for closing due
to emergency, inclement weather or acts of God.
Non payment is grounds for
immediate dismissal. Cash, check or money order maybe used as payment.
All
payments must be given to me, Chanda Jones directly. Childs name must be written on
the memo line of all checks. There is a $45 fee charged for checks returned by the bank.
Additionally all checks return will be considered late and incur a $5 per day late fee back
to the day it was due. If a parent has a check returned they will be required to make all
future payments with cash or money order.
Parents of subsides children must complete all required paperwork on time to continue
enrollment. Parents of subsidized children are also required to sign a fee agreement,
agreeing to be personally responsible for payment in the event they become ineligible to
receive childcare subsidies. Parents are also responsible for their co-payments.
ALL PAYMENTS ARE DUE ON FRIDAYS, EACH DAY LATE WILL INCUR A
$ 5.00 A DAY LATE FEE. A COPY OF CURRENT RATES WILL BE
PROVIDED AND ARE SUBJECT TO YEARLY EVALUATIONS.
Hours of Operation
The day care will operate Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Parents
will receive advance notification should there be a need to change our normal hours of
operation.
Day-Care holiday schedule include ALL Federal Holidays
Independence Day
Christmas
Labor Day
New Years
President's Day
Memorial Day
Good Friday
Thanksgiving (Thursday & Friday)
Martin L. King Jr.
*If it happens where Christmas fall on a weekend day I will have the Friday
before off or the Monday after Monday off. The same goes for New Year’s Day.
Vacation Guideline
Parents are required to notify Polly’s Playroom two full weeks in advance when child is
to be withdrawn to accompany parents on vacation. Parents will then be required to pay
one-half the regular week rate, in advance, for the vacation time in order to ensure
readmission.
I will notify parents four weeks in advance of closure due to family vacation or an
educational conference.
The above are paid holidays for Polly’s Playroom if they fall on a contracted day for your
child. In addition, Polly‘s Playroom may close for 2 weeks of paid vacation per year (not to be
taken consecutively, one is usually in the winter the other may be taken in spring or summer)
as well as 10 personal (paid) days per year. (Notification of at least 2 weeks will be given prior
to any closed days, with the exception of emergencies or illness. Please have a backup
childcare provider for these occasions. Polly’s Playroom is not responsible for finding alternate
care for your child. In the event that I will be away for a period of time less than three hours
(Doctor Appointments, errands, etc.) substitute care will be provided.
MEALS
Breakfast, lunch and snacks will be provided by Polly’s Playroom. Breakfast is between
8:00 am and 9:00 pm, lunch is provided between 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm.
Should your child arrive later than mealtimes, please make sure your child is adequately
feed to last until the next mealtime or snack time. Please do not send gum, candy, or
chips. Arrangements will be made for special days.
Please feel free to include a list of food allergies as well as food preferences.
Activities
Child directed Creativity is the basis for all activities at Polly’s Playroom.
Creativity integrates physical, mental, social, and emotional growth. Creativity is
fostered by a free, flexible, accepting, and open environment and by openly discovering,
inventing, and creating. In addition to having the opportunity for self-expression,
children are practicing small motor skills, eye-hand coordination, left to right
progression, and whole-part relationship.
Sick Care
If your child is ill to the extent that it interrupts the care of or endangers the health of the
other children, it will be necessary for you to make other arrangements for his or her care.
Should your child become ill during his or her day here, you will be notified and we will
determine the best course of action concerning appropriate care, which may include the
child being taken home.
If your child has a temperature in excess of 101 degrees, vomiting, excessive diarrhea, or
any potentially contagious disorder or otherwise terribly uncomfortable please keep your
child at home. Please be considered of the other children in my care. Note that at these
times I cannot provide adequate care for your child and be fair to the other children.
Any medication to be given must come in labeled prescription bottles. Nonprescription
medicine, if needed, will also be administered, if provided by parent. In order for
medication to be administered a sign authorization must be submitted.
FOR READMISSION CHILD MUST BE FEVER FREE WITHOUT
MEDICATION.
Dress Code:
Children should arrive clean and fully dressed for fun and play. The activities may be
messy. Do not send your child in clothing that you do not want stained. Please do not
send your child in pajamas. Clothing should be appropriate to the season and include
outerwear (coat, hat, mittens and scarves) in the winter. Children should wear casual and
comfortable shoes conducive to outdoor play. Flip-flops, slides, and bare feet are not
permitted. Weather permitting; we will spend a lot of time outdoors a complete change of
clothing is necessary in the event of an accident.
Water Play:
I have a sprinkler & small wading pool for summer water play. I require a permission slip signed before the
child is allowed to play in the water if I use a small wading pool. A swimsuit will be
requested for these days.
Transportation:
At times, we may plan a field trip or it may be necessary for me to transport your child by
car. A permission form is provided upon enrollment. All traffic and safety laws will be
followed. No child will ever be left unattended in a vehicle. Also, because this business is
run out of my home, it may be necessary to run occasional errands with the children.
Parents will be notified at drop off time or with a phone call. Besides trips to the park, my mother's house (which is around the corner-I will furnish this address) the park and walks around the neighborhood the only time we may leave
without notice is in the case of an emergency, in which case a note will be placed on the
door leaving instructions where the children can be found. Unless it is an emergency, you
will always be notified prior to any outing from Polly’s Playroom and reserve the right to
refuse. If I do not have your permission to transport your child, you are expected to pick
up your child immediately and make alternate childcare arrangements for that day.
Holidays/Birthdays:
We honor major holidays and all children’s birthdays. If you would like to bring a special
treat for the children, please arrange this with me. You are more than welcome to
participate in ANY activities we have planned.
House Cleaning:
My main concern is the care of the children; therefore my house is not always spotless. I
clean my house during rest Time, if all are asleep, during non-business hours, and
occasionally with children's help. The children will help clean up toys before meals, naps
and pick up times.
Emergencies:
Fire: There are two fire extinguishers located in my home. One is in the kitchen
behind and the other is located in the “playroom.” If there is a fire that cannot be
extinguished quickly, the children will be evacuated immediately before calling
911. We will practice fire drills monthly so the children will be prepared in the
event of a fire. The fire evacuation plan is located on file and you are free to view
it at any time.
Power outage: There are flashlights located in the kitchen and living room. If the
power remains out for some time, there are non-perishables located in the kitchen
that will be used to eat. If the weather is inclement and the house is getting too
cold for the children, you will be called to pick up your child.
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 like to have a conference, you may request one at any time. You are
encouraged to call me at any time between the hours of 7:30a.m - 5:00p.m to
check on your child. If you call during the day, please be aware that I may be
busy with the children and may not be able to spend amble time on the phone.
The best time to call during the day is during our daily nap/quiet time. To address
any issues and/or concerns please feel free to schedule an appointment.
I am looking forward to a terrific relationship with you and your child!!
PERSONAL BELONGINGS
I prefer that children do not bring toys from home unless it is something that can be
shared with the entire group (i.e. books, videos, etc.). Little ones have a difficult time
sharing with others, and it is even harder with their own special toys. If toys are brought
from home, and are the cause of disagreements between the children, I will put the toy in
the child’s cubby until the child goes home. I am not responsible for any loss or breakage
of personal items. Each child has their own cubby labeled with their name. The cubby
contains all of the child’s personal belongings. Parents are more than welcome to check
remove or add anything to their child’s cubby.
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
There will be times and ways you can get involved in your child's experience at
Polly‘s Playroom. You are welcomed and encouraged to participate in any or all
of these activities. Some examples of ways to be involved include:
* Lending objects for units of study
*Helping your child prepare for "Show and Tell"
* Helping to provide treats or other items for our parties
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. There will be no running or yelling permitted in the house. Hitting,
pushing, biting, grabbing, kicking, spitting, or pinching will NOT be allowed. No
standing, jumping or climbing on chairs, tables or furniture. There will be no use of
obscene, derogatory or disrespectful language. Children may not walk around the house
with food, cups or bottles. 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. My home is a smoke-free home therefore smoking will not be
permitted on the premises. Children and families are welcome in any areas of the home
that are used for childcare purposes.
DAMAGES
It is expected that your child will be respectful of my personal 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 costs. This reimbursement is due with your next payment
REFFERRALS
Referrals from a client are one of the biggest compliments I can receive. As a special
thank you, I offer families $50.00 off of one weeks tuitions for each referral that enrolls.
Your discount will be deducted from your weekly fee after the referred child has attended
for 4 weeks.
What to bring on the first day
Infants: Please bring a feeding schedule and formula/breast milk along with bottles
labeled with baby’s name/initials; disposable diapers; several bibs; to complete changes
of clothing; crib sheet and blanket.
Toddlers: Please bring disposable diapers and wipes (until potty trained); a complete
change of clothes (seasonally appropriate); crib sheet and blanket; an old clean adult size
t-shirt to be used as a paint smock.
Please be sure to label all of your child’s belonging
Miscellaneous
* Any changes in personal address or phone numbers will be given to provider as
soon as possible. Names and phone numbers on emergency forms will be kept
current.
*Parents are free to call at anytime to see how their child is doing.
* Note that your child will not be given released to persons other than the parent or
legal guardian only if their names appear on the signed emergency form. In case
of emergency, a phone call from you will suffice as long as the person picking up
the child shows identification.
* All possible care is taken to provide a safe and healthy environment; however,
children do have accidents. I am certified in CPR. In a case of an accident I will
tend to the child and notify the parent. In case of an emergency, I will tend to the
child, call 911 and notify the parent. Your child will be taken to the nearest
hospital if that becomes necessary.
*I am a mandated reporter of suspected child abuse. Your child’s welfare will
ALWAYS come first. I will consult with you if possible. Please understand that I
have few options.
*Any person picking up your child in an impaired condition {in my estimation,
inebriated or on drugs} will be encouraged to allow me to find alternate
transportation. I cannot legally withhold a child from a legal guardian, but if I
feel the child is in jeopardy, I will not hesitate to contact the police.
*Please check your child’s bag, cubby Parent board and clipboard for daily
information.
* Children must be in by 10 am because many activities begin at this time. I do not
want your child missing out on vital information crucial to the daily activities.
*Parents must sign children in and out DAILY.
*Changes to the contract are necessary and will be posted on the sign in clipboard and
must be signed promptly.
*************If you have any question or need further clarification please ask more signing***********
I look forward to a very prosperous adventure with you and your child
Thanks Polly’s Playroom
If you would like a hard copy of the handbook you can download it HERE
I would love to hear from you so please
EMAIL ME!!
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