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Handbook

Thank you for considering Little Learners Family Preschool and Childcare for your preschool and childcare needs. My name is  Amanda Wood. Please take the time to carefully review the policy handbook, as it outlines essential policies and procedures that govern our childcare contract agreement and relate to your child's well-being. This handbook contains a wealth of information, and I encourage you to reach out if you have any inquiries about our policies. While we will discuss these guidelines during our upcoming interview, this copy is a convenient reference for you. I'm excited about possibly welcoming you and your child to our preschool family!

Program Objectives

At Little Learners, my primary aim is to establish a secure and nurturing setting that fosters learning and prepares children for Kindergarten. My dedication lies in imparting knowledge through interactive, hands-on experiences, as valuable learning instances are frequently present throughout the day. The emphasis should be on the learning journey rather than the result. In pursuit of these objectives, I endeavor to offer activities that cater to the holistic development of each child. This includes fostering their social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth. By focusing on the complete spectrum of a child's development, I aim to create an environment that supports their overall progress. Thank you for entrusting your child's early learning journey to me.

Learning Approach

Our daily schedule is thoughtfully designed to offer multiple learning opportunities, fostering an environment rich in educational experiences. I achieve this through engaging activities, including storytime sessions, creative arts, literacy exercises, math explorations, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) stations. My curriculum is structured around thematic units, with each theme spanning ten days of focused instruction. These themes are carefully aligned with age-appropriate resources such as toys, books, songs, and music that enhance the learning experience and align with our current theme. I draw upon many resources to provide our children with the best learning environment. My favorites include Pocket of Preschool, Play to Learn Preschool, Spark, Zoo Phonics, Conscience Discipline, and Second Step. By blending these resources, I ensure a well-rounded and engaging approach to learning that caters to each child's unique needs and interests.

Enrollment Requirements

Before enrolling your child at Little Learners Family Preschool and Childcare, please complete and submit the following forms:

  1. Enrollment Form MO-580-2994: This form is vital for enrollment and helps us gather essential information about your child.

  2. Child Medical Examination Report MO-580-1878: To ensure your child's well-being, please provide a medical examination report completed within 30 days after enrollment.

  3. Immunization Record MO-580-0242: Kindly submit a copy of your child's immunization record from their healthcare provider.

  4. Parents Specialized Instructions for Infants and Toddlers MO-580-1918: If your child is under 24 months of age, this form provides us with specific instructions to cater to their unique needs.

  5. Financial Agreement: This agreement outlines the financial terms of enrollment and ensures clarity regarding fees and payments.

  6. Photo Release Form: This permits me to use your child's picture in ads and appear on our Facebook page. 

Additional forms might be requested based on your child's needs. These measures are in place to ensure that we can provide the best care and support for each child.

Operating Hours 

We are pleased to offer flexible hours of operation at Little Learners Family Preschool and Childcare. Preschool is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., providing a window of opportunity that accommodates your schedule. Your child is welcome to join us during our open hours. To ensure the smooth functioning of our childcare services, we kindly request that parents communicate with us if there are any delays in dropping off their child or if their child will be absent for the day. A simple phone call, text, or message on Brightwheel will suffice to keep us informed about any changes to the routine.

Daily Health Checks 

To maintain a healthy and safe environment for all individuals within our preschool community, a daily health check will be implemented to monitor the well-being of children. This policy outlines the procedures and expectations for conducting daily health checks.

Procedure:

  • Parent/Guardian Responsibility:

    • Parents or guardians are responsible for assessing their child's health each morning before arriving at the preschool.

    • If a child exhibits any symptoms of illness or has been unwell in the past 24 hours, parents/guardians should keep the child at home and inform the preschool of the absence.

  • Preschool Staff Responsibility:

    • Upon arrival, I will visually assess each child for signs of illness, including but not limited to fever, cough, runny nose, and lethargy.

    • Any child showing symptoms during the visual assessment will be further evaluated by the parents/guardians to determine whether they should be sent home.

Drop-Off and Pickup Policy

The safety and well-being of all children are my top priorities. Drop-off and pickup policies are established to maintain a secure and hygienic environment.

Drop-Off Procedures:

  • Arrival and Sign-In: Parents or guardians are required to arrive with their children and walk them safely down the stairs. Upon arrival, parents/guardians must sign their child in using the tablet available for parents. 

  • Shoe Removal: To maintain cleanliness within the facility, parents/guardians are kindly requested to remove their child's shoes before their child enters the playroom. A shoe removal station and designated basket is available for this purpose.

  • Hand Washing: After shoe removal, parents/guardians should ensure that their child's hands are washed at the bathroom sink.  

  • Brief Goodbye: We encourage parents/guardians to keep goodbyes brief to minimize disruptions to the group and ease the child's transition. I will be available to assist with the transition.

  • Departure: After the child has been settled, parents/guardians should leave the facility promptly, ensuring a smooth transition for the child and other children in our care.

Pickup Procedures:

  • Pick-up and Sign-Out: Parents/guardians must sign their child out using the tablet provided.

  • Authorized Pick-Up List: Only individuals listed on the child's emergency contact list and the person authorized to take the child from the preschool. 

  • Child Safety and Responsible Pickup: Child Safety Restraints: Children will only be released to individuals with an appropriate child car seat or using a seatbelt suitable for the child's age and size. This policy is designed to ensure the well-being and safety of our children during transportation. Sobriety Requirement: Children will not be released to anyone who shows signs of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. I prioritize the safety and welfare of our children, and releasing them to individuals impaired by substances is not in their best interests.

Brightwheel App

Our program has partnered with Brightwheel, the leading early education app, for parent communication, tuition billing, and more. It is highly reviewed, secure, and commended for its ease of use. You’ll receive an email or text invitation from Brightwheel to connect to your child’s profile. Simply click the link in the Brightwheel message to finish creating your account. If you already have a Brightwheel account, it will automatically link to our program when you click the invite link. You can sign in to Brightwheel on a web browser and via their mobile app. You can download their mobile app in the Apple and Google Play stores.

Holidays, Closures,  Vacations, and Absence Policy

I have established policies on holidays, vacation time, and sick days to ensure clarity and fairness for all parties involved.

Holidays: Preschool will be closed on the following holidays, with regular pay:

  • New Year’s Day

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day

  • Presidents Day

  • Easter

  • Memorial Day

  • Juneteenth

  • 4th of July

  • Labor Day

  • Veteran’s Day

  • Thanksgiving Thursday and Friday

  • Christmas from December 23rd to January 1st (Not Paid)

 

Vacation Time: As a part of our annual routine, I will provide written notification in August/September of each year regarding any planned closure dates for vacation time. You are not expected to pay for childcare services during these periods. Typically, I take one week of vacation in spring, another week during summer, and a third week around Christmas.

 

Sick Days, Snow Days, and Emergencies: There might be instances when I cannot provide childcare due to illness or other emergencies. You will be expected to pay for the missed days in such cases. Your child's well-being is paramount to me,  and we appreciate your understanding in these unforeseen situations. I am closed on all snow days set by the Nixa Public School District with pay.  

Childcare Fees and Payment Policy

I strive to provide the best care for your child while maintaining a fair and transparent fee structure. Please familiarize yourself with the following policies regarding payments:
Timely Payments: To ensure the consistent provision of our services, all payments must be made on time. Failure to do so may result in the suspension of services until the full payment is received. I understand that each family has unique circumstances, and I am committed to working individually with you to meet your specific payment needs.
Payment Requirement: Childcare services will only be provided if full payment has been received in advance. Please note that fees are non-refundable for absences due to your child's illness or any other reason. Regardless of attendance, total payments are required as I cannot substitute hours for missed ones.
Understanding the Financial Balance: I recognize the financial responsibilities that childcare places on parents. Similarly, it's essential to acknowledge that childcare is a business that incurs various costs, such as groceries, utilities, insurance, curriculum, toys, and equipment. Moreover, I have obligations to my family, and an unpaid provider can lead to stress and dissatisfaction. It's vital to recognize that my services are not offered for free.
Late Payment Charges: If fees are not received as scheduled, a daily charge of $5.00 will be applied to the outstanding amount. This charge will remain in effect until all dues and late charges are fully settled. I am committed to taking any exceptional accounts to court and collections if necessary.
Payment Methods: Payments will be facilitated through Brightwheel. If you choose the ACH payment method, please note that there is a transaction fee of $0.90 per transaction.

Meal Policies

I prioritize providing nourishing meals that align with state and federal standards for children. Our meal offerings adhere to the USDA food program guidelines, designed to ensure that children receive healthy, well-balanced meals and snacks. Guidelines for Meal Consumption: In line with these standards, if a child chooses not to eat during a particular meal, they will be served during the subsequent meal or snack time. If you anticipate your child's arrival coinciding with the conclusion of a meal or just after that, kindly ensure they are fed before arriving. It's important to note that if your child is present during a scheduled mealtime, they will be served, even if you have already fed them. Once I conclude serving that meal or snack, I won't be able to provide additional servings. Thank you for understanding and adhering to these meal policies. Your cooperation ensures that every child receives proper nutrition and contributes to their well-being.

Rest Period Guidelines

Recognizing the importance of rest for the well-being of each child. Here are our guidelines for rest time:
Rest Schedule: Our designated rest period is from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. During this time, each child is provided with a cot, a sheet, and a blanket tailored for their comfort and safety while napping. We encourage parents to offer blankets from home to create a sense of familiarity.
Individualized Rest Supplies: To ensure hygiene and comfort, each child's sheet and blanket are stored separately in a designated drawer, clearly marked with their name. We wash these linens weekly or whenever they become soiled, maintaining a clean and comfortable environment.
Rest for Non-Sleepers: We provide a restful period on cots for at least 30 minutes for preschool-aged children who do not sleep. We prioritize respecting each child's individual needs and rhythms. However, we will not require any child to remain on the cot for more than one hour, as we believe in maintaining a supportive and understanding approach. After 30 minutes, each child will be supplied with a Kindle to watch PBS Kids or to play ABC Mouse. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we strive to create a peaceful and nurturing environment for all children in our care.

Guidelines on Food, Pocket Chane and Toys

Maintaining a safe and harmonious environment at school is a top priority. To ensure a positive experience for all children, I have established guidelines concerning food, pocket change, and toys.
Food Restrictions: To promote a conducive atmosphere and minimize disruptions, we do not permit gum, soda, or any food or candy. While it might disappoint some children, this rule is in place to prevent inequality among children and potential disruptions. I request that these items are not brought into the preschool setting. Please refrain from telling your child that these items are allowed here. The items will be returned to the parent if any child arrives with such things.
Pocket Change and Money: We ask that children not bring pocket change or money to the preschool for safety reasons. Small coins can pose a choking hazard, and we want to ensure a secure environment for all children.
Toys from Home: While it's natural for children to have attachments to their toys, bringing toys from home can lead to distractions and conflicts. Parents often expect the return of these toys, and searching for misplaced items can take up valuable learning time. We kindly request children not bring toys to school to prevent these challenges and maintain a focused learning environment.

Health and Illness Policy

We understand it is difficult for a family member to leave or miss work, but you may not bring a sick child to the preschool to protect other children. I have the right to refuse a child who appears ill. You will be called and asked to retrieve your child if your child exhibits any of the following symptoms. This is not an all-inclusive list. We will try to keep your child comfortable, but he/she will be excluded from all activities until you arrive. 

  •  Illness that prevents your child from participating in activities. 

  •  Illness that results in a greater need for care than I can provide. 

  •  Illness that poses a risk of spreading harmful diseases to others. 

  •  Fever (100°F or higher) 

  •  Diarrhea 

  •  Vomiting 2 times during the previous 24 hours. 

  •  Mouth sores caused by drooling. 

  •  Rash with fever.

  •  Pink or red conjunctiva with white or yellow eye discharge until on antibiotics for 24 hours. 

  • Impetigo until 24 hours after treatment. 

  • Strep throat until 24 hours after treatment. 

  • Head lice until treatment and all nits are removed. 

  • Scabies until 24 hours after treatment. 


Absence Due to Illness: Please understand that there will be no refunds for fees related to absences resulting from a child's illness. Regardless of whether your child attends during their illness, total fees are required to maintain the continuity of our services and resources.

Immunization Requirements

We must prioritize the health and safety of all children in our care. By Missouri state law, we must adhere to specific immunization regulations for children enrolled in our childcare program. Here's what you need to know.
Immunization Forms: All children must have signed and up-to-date immunization forms on file with me before they can be admitted into our childcare program. These forms provide documentation of the child's immunization history and are crucial in ensuring a healthy environment for all.
Completion Before Admission: To maintain the well-being of all children, your child's immunizations must be completed and documented before they are admitted into our childcare program. This requirement aligns with state guidelines and helps prevent the spread of preventable diseases.
Thank you for your cooperation in meeting these immunization requirements. By working together, we can ensure the health and safety of every child in our care.

Medication 

The safety and well-being of your child are paramount. Please review our medication administration protocol, Authorization, and Original Container to ensure a responsible medication administration approach. Before any prescription medication can be administered, we require a signed authorization form from the parent or guardian. For safety reasons, medication will only be administered if provided in its original container, including the prescription label.
Prescription Medication Requirements: We will administer prescription medication only with written instructions from a licensed physician or dentist. If the medication's label contains the child's name and current prescription details, this will be deemed sufficient written instructions.
Parent-Supplied Medications: Parents or guardians are responsible for supplying all prescription and non-prescription medications, including the appropriate containers and instructions. This ensures I have accurate and current information regarding your child's medications.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we prioritize the safety and proper care of all children under my supervision.

Preschool Screening 
Ages and Stages Questionaires (ASQ)

Regular screening provides a fast and helpful look at how your child is doing in critical areas like communication, social, motor, and problem-solving skills. Screening can identify your child’s strengths, uncover new milestones to celebrate, and reveal areas where your child may need support. It helps you understand your child’s development and know what to look for next. And it enables you to work with doctors and educators to plan the next steps when it makes the most difference—your child’s critical first years of life. I use the  Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ) to ensure regular and comprehensive developmental screening for children.
Frequency of Screening: Preschool screening using the ASQ will be conducted twice a year for all enrolled children. The screening will occur in January and June to ensure a systematic and consistent approach.

Parent-teacher Conferences 

Parent-teacher conferences foster open communication and collaboration between educators and parents/guardians to discuss each child's progress, development, and well-being in my care. Conferences will be conducted individually with each family at least twice a year. These conferences may take place in person, via video conference, chat, or phone, depending on the convenience and preference of the parents/guardians.

Policy on Mandated Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect:

I am committed to the safety and well-being of all children under my care. As a responsible adult, I have a legal and ethical obligation to report any suspected cases of child abuse and neglect to the appropriate authorities. 

Approach to Discipline

Creating a nurturing classroom environment is a foundational principle at Little Learners Family Preschool and Childcare. Here is an overview of our approach to discipline and behavior management.
Cultivating a Classroom Community: I greatly emphasize building a sense of classroom family and community. We aim to create a safe and welcoming space where each child feels valued and secure.
Positive Communication and Conflict Resolution: We actively teach children to uplift one another, resolve conflicts through effective communication, and take responsibility for their actions. The time needed to establish a cohesive classroom community varies based on the individual personalities and social dynamics of the children in our care.
Respect and Kindness: Every child, without exception, is treated with kindness, respect, and care by both me and their peers. I prioritize fostering an environment where these values are upheld.
Parent and Provider Collaboration: Parents and providers collaborate to ensure children are comfortable expressing their concerns and managing conflicts. I achieve this through regular class meetings, establishing rules, assigning school jobs, exploring choices, using I-messages, and honing communication skills. These strategies form the basis of our behavior and discipline plan.
Tailored Approach: While there will be consequences for poor choices or behaviors, I understand that each child possesses unique social and behavioral needs. My individualized approach addresses these needs, focusing on teaching expected behaviors and utilizing teachable moments throughout the day.
By adhering to these practices, I aim to create an environment where children thrive emotionally, socially, and academically while learning valuable life skills.

Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct for Preschool

The preschool is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and respectful environment for all children and families. The following Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for behavior and interactions within our preschool community.

For Children:

  • Respect for Others:

    • Treat fellow students and teacher, with kindness and consideration.

    • Use polite language and respectful communication.

  • Sharing and Cooperation:

    • Share toys, materials, and play spaces with others.

    • Practice cooperation and teamwork during group activities.

  • Safety First:

    • Follow safety guidelines and listen to teachers' instructions.

    • Report any unsafe situations or concerns to a teacher.

  • Cleanliness and Hygiene:

    • Practice good hygiene habits, including handwashing after using the restroom and before meals.

    • Clean up after oneself and participate in maintaining a tidy environment.

  • Listening and Following Instructions:

    • Listen attentively to teachers and follow their instructions.

  • Respect for Property:

    • Treat preschool property, as well as the belongings of others, with care and respect.

  • Inclusion and Friendship:

    • Be inclusive and welcoming to all classmates.

    • Report any instances of bullying or unkind behavior to a teacher.

For Parents and Guardians:

  • Communication:

    • Maintain open and respectful communication with me.

    • Inform the preschool of any relevant information regarding your child's well-being or any changes in family circumstances.

  • Timeliness:

    • Drop off and pick up your child in a timely manner.

    • Notify the preschool in advance of any changes to your child's schedule.

  • Respect for Policies:

    • Adhere to all preschool policies, including safety, health, and pick-up/drop-off procedures.

  • Participation:

    • Participate in school events to stay informed and engaged in your child's education.

For Staff:

  • Professionalism:

    • Demonstrate professionalism in all interactions with children, parents, and colleagues.

    • Uphold confidentiality regarding sensitive information about children and families.

  • Safety and Supervision:

    • Prioritize the safety and well-being of all children under your care.

    • Provide appropriate supervision during all activities.

  • Communication:

    • Communicate effectively with parents and colleagues, sharing relevant information promptly.

    • Foster a positive and collaborative relationship with parents.

  • Continuous Professional Development:

    • Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in early childhood education.

    • ​

This Code of Conduct is designed to create a harmonious and respectful environment for everyone in our preschool community. All members are expected to uphold these principles and contribute to the well-being and success of our preschool.

Children's Clothing

Ensuring the comfort and well-being of all children is a priority in Preschool. Here's our policy regarding children's clothing and supplies:
Change of Clothes Requirement: For the convenience and hygiene of all children, It is required that every child, irrespective of age or toilet skills, has a complete change of clothes readily available at preschool. Accidents and spills can occur at any age, and changing clothes helps ensure your child remains comfortable and clean throughout their time with us. This requirement supports a positive experience for both your child and their peers.
Dress-Up Clothing Exclusion: I kindly ask parents to refrain from sending dress-up clothing to preschool with their children. This policy is in place to ensure that children can fully engage in educational activities and interactions without distractions.
By adhering to this policy, we aim to create an atmosphere conducive to learning and promote a structured and organized setting.

Diapering Policy

Diaper Type and Responsibility: Parents are kindly requested to provide pull-up type diapers for their children. This type of diaper ensures convenience and comfort for the child and me. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to this requirement.
Wipes Provided: I will supply the wipes needed for diaper changes, ensuring I maintain a hygienic and well-prepared environment.
Skill Development for Potty Training: As part of our approach to preparing children for potty training, I actively teach dressing and changing skills. This enables our little learners to develop essential self-care skills as they progress toward becoming more independent in managing their needs. Children aged three years and up are required to be in underwear during the day. 

Injuries and Medical Emergencies

Safeguarding your child's well-being is of the utmost importance at Little Learners Family Preschool and Childcare. 
Safety Measures: I am committed to maintaining a safe environment for your child at our childcare. While I take every precaution to prevent accidents, minor incidents can still occur.
Responsibility for Medical Bills: Parents will be responsible for any resulting medical bills in the unfortunate event of an accident. Please be assured that your child's safety is my priority, and I will provide immediate first-aid treatment as needed.
Prompt Notification: You will be notified if your child experiences any illness or accident requiring first aid treatment. This transparent communication ensures you're informed about your child's well-being.
Serious Accidents or Emergencies: In the case of a severe accident or injury, I will immediately contact you. If I cannot reach either parent, I will use the emergency contact numbers provided to make necessary medical decisions. If I believe the injury is life-threatening, I will call "911" or transport your child to the nearest hospital. Parents will be responsible for any related medical and ambulance bills.




Communication via Brightwheel: For minor accidents occurring throughout the day, I will notify you through Brightwheel, our communication platform, to keep you informed about your child's safety.

Communication Policy

Effective communication between parents and Little Learners Family Preschool and Childcare is vital to ensure the well-being and care of your child. Here's our policy on communication:
Timely Communication: I kindly request that parents text if there are deviations from the usual routine. Please inform me if your child is running late, feeling unwell, or anything unusual. Assertive communication is pivotal in providing the best care possible for your child.
Enhancing Care Through Communication: By maintaining an open line of communication between parents and the childcare provider, we can create an environment that supports each child's emotional and physical well-being. Sharing information about daily occurrences and any changes helps me offer the best possible support to your child.
Prioritizing Support: I'm dedicated to providing exceptional care for your children, and strong communication is imperative to achieving that goal. Your updates and insights enable me to offer appropriate emotional support and understanding throughout your child's care.

Termination of Care

If you, as a parent, decide to terminate the childcare services, you must provide a written notice at least fourteen days in advance. This notice should include an explanation for the termination. If you fail to provide this notice, you will be charged for the following two weeks of care, even if your child does not attend. This advance notice is crucial for the childcare provider to be able to fill the opening left by your child's departure. Failure to give the required notice will still result in the expectation of payment for the two weeks.
If I terminate the childcare contract, they will provide a two-week notice whenever possible. However, the provider reserves the right to terminate the contract immediately for various reasons, including but not limited to:

  1. Policy Non-compliance: If the parent fails to adhere to the policies outlined by the childcare provider.

  2. Destructive or Harmful Behavior: If the child's behavior poses a risk to other children or property.

  3. Payment Issues: In case of recurring non-payment or late payment of childcare fees.

  4. Absenteeism: If the child is absent for five consecutive days without communication.

  5. Incomplete Forms: If the parent does not complete the required forms.

  6. Staffing Needs: If the provider can only meet the child's needs with additional staff.

  7. Illness Communication: If the parent does not inform the provider when the child is not attending due to illness.

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