Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center

Parent Handbook 2020-2021

Welcome to the Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center was developed in conjunction with the Monterey Peninsula Adult Education Consortia to respond to the need for childcare services in the community.

Operating on our Adult Education Campus, this program offers a quality childcare program which is designed to meet the needs of the community. We currently serve children from the ages of 18 months to 5 years old.

Our staff is dedicated, reliable and most importantly child centered. They encourage the children to explore and create daily. They are always searching for innovative ideas for the children. As well, our staffing ratios meet the California Child Care Licensing standards. In addition, our staff is required by law to undergo a Criminal Reference Check prior to employment. The Childcare Center is open 210 days per year. Days and hours of operation are Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. excluding Holidays, PGUSD Professional Development Days and PGUSD observed non-student days. Due to COVID-19 our summer hours have been adjusted to 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. through August 5. We resume staying open until 6:00 p.m. on August 6.

PHILOSOPHY

Our primary objective is to meet the needs of children and their families through the provision of high quality, licensed childcare services. Our program takes into consideration the varying ages and abilities of the children and strives to meet their unique needs within the context of the whole group. In addition, we provide a wide variety of stimulating activities, both indoor and outdoor, to achieve these needs.

The childcare environment is designed to encourage and facilitate growth in all areas of development, including but not limited to social, physical, intellectual, cognitive and emotional development. We believe that children learn through play and interaction with their environment. We provide a variety of planned activities and experiences that are developmentally appropriate to meet the children’s needs and allow them to maximize their individual potential within a group setting. Group participation and play are integral parts of our program and contribute to the development of self- confidence and sense of mutual respect. Beyond fundamental predetermined health and safety rules, we encourage the children to learn the boundaries of behavior through a positive system of setting limits, thereby maintaining self-respect and encourage the children to approach decision and problem-solving.

**COVID-19** Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center FAQ Safety Protocols for Returning to School

The Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center re-opened on Monday, June 15. All returning families will have their two-week credit, from our March closing, applied to their tuition and automatic tuition payments will resume thereafter.

This document will provide you with the safety protocols we have implemented for our Child Development Center. These protocols all follow the state guidelines and an inspection of our facility by the CDSS has approved us for opening.

Child Development Center Hours of Operation and Staff Schedule: Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center Hours of Operation will be slightly adjusted in response to COVID-19.

Hours of Operation: Parent Drop Off: 7:00 a.m. Parent Pick Up: 5:00 p.m. through August 5 Parent Pick Up: 6:00 p.m. starting August 6

Toddler Classroom (12 students) Pre-Kindergarten Classroom (12 students)

Teacher Jennifer Hall Teacher Kelly Ann Joyce Assistant Heather Radcliff Assistant Christina Bronfeld Assistant Marshall Goldman Assistant Monica Surprenant Assistant Kine Samulels Assistant Sylvia Gil

Class Schedules

Toddler Class Daily Schedule:

7:00 a.m. Parent Drop Off & Outside play, art and activities (weather permitting) 9:15 a.m. Cleanup, Handwashing & Snack time 9:45 a.m. Diapers, toileting & handwashing/Individual activity sets 10:00 a.m. Small group Circle time, calendar and songs (split group, 6 children inside, 6 children outside & rotate) 10:30 a.m. Outdoor play, large motor & art activities 11:35 a.m. Clean up, toileting and hand washing 11:55 a.m. Lunch 12:30 p.m. Nap/Quiet Time 3:00 p.m. Wake-up, toileting, handwashing and snack time 3:30 p.m. Clean-up, Handwashing 3:50 p.m. Outdoor Play and activities followed by Parent pick up

Pre-Kindergarten Daily Schedule

7:00 a.m. Parent Drop Off & Outside play, art and activities (weather permitting) 9:00 a.m. Cleanup, Handwashing & Snack time 9:30 a.m. Toileting & handwashing/Individual activity sets 9:45 a.m. Movement and Songs, Circle time, Small Group Academics (split group, 6 children inside, 6 children outside & rotate) 10:15 a.m. Outdoor play, large motor & art activities 12:00 p.m. Clean up, toileting and hand washing 12:20 p.m. Lunch 12:45 p.m. Toileting & handwashing 1:00 p.m. Nap/Quiet Time 3:00 p.m. Wake-up, toileting, handwashing and snack time 3:30 p.m. Clean-up, Handwashing 3:50 p.m. Outdoor Play and activities followed by Parent pick up

Parent Drop-Off and Pick-Up

Families are required to wear masks during drop-off and pick-up. Families are to wash their child's hands for 40 seconds at the handwashing station located next to the classroom. Parents are then greeted by staff outside the classroom at a sign-in area for the health screening.

Screening Methods - PGAE staff will take the child's temperature upon arrival at the facility.

- The child’s parent/guardian will confirm that their child does not have a fever, shortness of breath, cough or have been in contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19.

- PGAE staff will make a visual inspection of the child for signs of illness which could include flushed cheeks, rapid breathing or difficulty breathing (without recent physical activity), fatigue, or extreme fussiness.

- Parents/Guardians will sign-in their child before they enter the classroom, and sign them out when leaving each day.

- Regarding children wearing face masks, the Monterey County Health Department Order states that any child aged two years or less should not wear a Face Covering because of the risk of suffocation. In addition, it does not require that any child twelve years of age or less wear a Face Covering, including but not limited to, when attending childcare activities.

*Please be mindful and provide yourselves with extra time in the mornings, as there will be one staff member providing health checks. It’s normal for numerous families to show up at once and we want to be as efficient as possible. We have indicators on the ground to ensure everyone stays 6ft apart during the screening process.

Entering and exiting the classroom Children will be separated by age into two classrooms, one classroom for infant/toddlers and one classroom for Pre-Kindergarten. Students may not pass back and forth to each classroom during the day. Staff will be assigned to each classroom and may not pass back and forth to each classroom throughout the day. Toddlers will use the toddler playground and Pre-Kindergarten children will use the larger playground. Classes will NOT commingle and will remain separate throughout the day. Siblings will be kept in the same classroom regardless of age.

Beginning the Day

- Children will bring all their belongings with them to the classroom, including their coats and lunch. - Before removing any clothing or items from their bags, children must sanitize or wash their hands thoroughly for 40 seconds (using the handwashing station located outside the classroom. Once hands are washed, the children are screened and may enter the classroom. During the Day

- Children must wash their hands before they enter the classroom; this is at the beginning of the day, after recess, before and after meals, and, after using the toilet or any other time they enter the room - Each child is encouraged to bring a perfume-free hand lotion to be used after sanitizing and washing hands to prevent rash. Please label accordingly with your child’s name and have the item added to the Topical Ointment form with their teacher. - Children must wash their hands when they exit the classroom; this is anytime going outside to play, going to the toilet, being picked up at the end of the day or any other time they leave the room End of the Day

- Children put on their coats and gather their things - Children will wash their hands before walking out the door - Children will meet their parent outside of the classroom at the designated drop off/pick up station

To best serve you, please be sure to provide your most accurate pick up time to our staff. This helps us prepare your child and their belongings for the end of the day.

Use of Materials

Classrooms and use of materials - Children will be assigned their own individual bin that will contain their own set of art supplies and other needed materials for learning. - Teachers and Instructional Assistants will maintain the sanitizing of the classroom and materials throughout the day. - All toys must be sanitized twice daily. If they cannot be sanitized they must be packed away. - All school materials stay at school; no home materials are brought to school. - Children cannot bring personal toys to school under any circumstances. Toys and Manipulatives - 4 boxes available each day - 2 for morning sessions and 2 for afternoon sessions - All toys and manipulatives to be sanitized after school - Soft toys and pillows/cushions/blankets removed Other Materials - White boards and markers will only be used by the teacher or teacher aide - Class pencils/pens wiped down after use - Scissors/glue sticks/rulers will be assigned to students for their use only - Other art materials i.e. pastels etc. used, cleaned and then packed away - No play dough/plasticine/clay - Napping Cot Sheets will be washed daily Classroom Libraries: - There will be a small selection of books available daily. Once a child has read the book it is packed away for 10 days and/or cleaned at the end of the day. - Teachers have a box of books relevant for the day which they use, clean and pack away.

Lunch, Snack, Recess and Naptime - Children will wash their hands before and after eating Lunch, Snack and Recess. All food that is consumed by children will be prepared at home and brought to school each day. - Students will practice a safe physical distance of 6 feet during all meals and activity centers inside the classroom. - To the best extent possible, students will practice safe physical distancing while on the playground and play equipment. - Napping Cots will be spaced 6 feet apart head-to-toe.

Routine Cleaning and Disinfecting Classrooms will be cleaned, sanitized and disinfected throughout the day, including surfaces and objects that are frequently touched, especially toys and games. This may also include cleaning objects/surfaces not ordinarily cleaned daily such as doorknobs, light switches, classroom sink handles, countertops, nap pads, toilet training potties, desks, chairs, cubbies, and playground structures. - Play structures will be sanitized by staff before and after use each day - Cleaning and disinfecting toys/manipulatives and Playground equipment will be done before and after use each day.

Start of Symptoms at the Site Children or staff who come to the childcare center sick, or become sick while at the facility will be sent home as soon as possible. Sick children will be monitored by staff in an isolation room away from other children until a parent/guardian can pick them up. The isolation room, like all classrooms on campus, will be sanitized and disinfected daily.

PROGRAM INFORMATION

The Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center offers a licensed, quality full day program for children ages 18 months to 5 years old.

Program Purpose and Outcomes: The program will focus on the following outcomes:

• Provide a happy, relaxed and stimulating environment that fosters self-confidence, self- respect, self-discipline and a feeling of security. • Encourage positive interaction between adults and children, and between children outside of their home and school environments. • Develop the child’s willingness to share. • Develop the child’s ability to respect the rights of others. • Provide group experiences and broaden the child’s world through nature, science, art, music and imaginative play. • Instill an understanding and acceptance of routines and limits. • Recognize individual needs and capabilities and help each child grow and develop to his/her potential. *Please see our full Program Statement – Appendix “A”

Parent Involvement We believe that the child’s development will be enhanced if good, strong communication exists between the parent/guardian(s) and the Child Development Center. We encourage participation from our parents for assistance and support in various areas. While we have an excellent professional staff, the success of our childcare program depends on the continuing contribution of all our parents’ talents and expertise. Therefore, parental participation is encouraged. Participation may take many forms, including attending parent education meetings or organizing special events and sharing skills. All ideas are welcome. *Please see Appendix “B”

Days/Hours of Operation The Childcare Center is open 210 days per year. Days and hours of operation are Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. excluding Holidays, PGUSD Professional Development Days and PGUSD observed non-student days. Due to COVID-19 our summer hours have been adjusted to 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. through August 5. We resume staying open until 6:00 p.m. on August 6. Children will not be accepted earlier than 7:00 a.m. It is necessary for every parent/guardian to check in with the staff upon arrival. Children must not be picked up later than 6:00 p.m. (or 5:00 p.m. during the summer). A late fee of $1.00 per minute will be charged. Please notify our Parent Education Office if your child will be picked up late. If a parent/guardian is late more than once during a 30-day period, s/he will be charged $2.00 per minute the second time. A third late pickup in a 30-day period will increase the charge to $4.00 per minute. If a parent/guardian is late more than three times, the matter may be referred to the Site Director and may result in the cancellation of the child’s enrollment in the program.

Daily Schedule - Child Care Daily Schedule - Preschool

7:00-8:45 Drop off/table activities/ 7:00 - 8: 30 Drop off/table activities 8:45-9:00 Transition for Snack 8:30-8:55 Outside Gross Motor Activities 9:00-9:30 Snack 8:55-9:20 Wash Hands/Snack

9:30-10:00 Circle Time 9:20-9:45 Movement/Circle Time/Read Aloud 10:00-10:30 Art/Table Activities 9:45-10:00 Small Group Academics 10:30-11:30 Outside Activities 10:00-11:00 Center Time 11:30-11:45 Transition to Lunch 11:00-12:00 Outside Gross Motor Activities (wash hands, line-up, serve) 12:00-12:05 Transition to Lunch (wash hands, serve) 11:45-12:15 Lunch 12:05-12:35 Lunch 12:15-3:00 Quiet time/Rest 3:00-3:15 Clean up from Quiet time/Rest 12:35-12:50 Bathroom/Prep for Quiet Time 3:15-3:30 Snack 12:50-3:00 Rest/Quiet Time 3:00-3:15 Clean up/Wash Hands 3:30-4:00 Circle Time 3:15-3:30 Snack Time 4:00-5:00 Outdoor Play 5:00-6:00 Inside Activities/Parent Pick-up 3:30-3:45 Movement/Read Aloud 3:45-5:30 Outdoor Gross/Fine Motor Activities 5:30-6:00 Inside Activities/Parent Pick-up

Activities The Child Development Center utilizes Frog Street Curriculum. The Frog Street Curriculum is used in both the Toddler and Pre-K programs and is a comprehensive, research-based program that integrates instruction across developmental domains and early learning disciplines. Frog Street Curriculum is specific to the developmental needs of the students in each program, allowing students to learn at their own pace in a way which nurtures curiosity and exploration through play.

Our hands-on learning activities include:

Library Area: designed as a quiet area where children can explore picture books and print.

Dramatic Play Activities: designed to allow children to be imaginative, develop social and emotional skills, discover verbal and nonverbal means of communication, and to give expression to the many emotions they may feel.

Cognitive Growth Activities: designed to make use of tools such as puzzles to teach sequencing, shape recognition, number and letter recognition, quantity, and size.

Outdoor Water Play Activities: designed as a sensory activity.

Creative Art Activities: designed to provide an outlet for creative expression, as well as giving children an opportunity to work with their hands, which in turn helps to develop fine motor skills.

Fieldtrips As part of our ongoing commitment to enhance our children’s experience we do take various fieldtrips throughout the year. Parents/guardians must sign a permission form for each field trip before their child will be able to participate. *Please see Appendix “C”

Rest Period All children at the Child Development Center may have a daily rest period, which is in accordance with California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. Quiet activities are provided during the rest time for children who have awakened or cannot sleep/rest. Please advise the staff if your child’s sleep needs have changed. A cuddly toy is welcomed at rest time. Children should bring a blanket. The daycare will supply a fitted sheet for the children’s cots. Our program will be responsible for washing the cot sheets. Each child will have a labeled bedding bag that will be sent home on Fridays and if the items become soiled.

Clothing Children should be dressed appropriately for their daily activities. An extra set of clothing should be kept in the children’s cubbies at all times. This should include a shirt, pants, underwear, socks, and a sweater/jacket. It is important to ensure that your child is wearing appropriate footwear while participating in our program. Open-toed sandals and flip flops are not safe, and often cause children to fall, leading to injuries. For this reason, we do not allow such footwear to be worn by children in the program. Families are responsible for providing their own diapers, wipes and labeled ointment/cream (if needed). You will be notified when items need to be replenished.

Cell Phone Policy There is a “No Cell Phone” policy for during drop-off and pick-up. It is important for children to have their parent(s) full attention at drop off and pick up. This will allow for clearer communication between children, teachers and parents.

Toys From Home Please do not have your child bring toys from home unless it your child’s special sharing day (of which you will be informed). Toys from home often get lost, broken or fought over. Due to the safety protocols for COVID-19, share day is not being implemented at this time. Please check with your child’s teacher for any updates.

Food Pacific Grove Unified School District is aware that snacks and meals are important components of a child’s daily activities for reasons other than just nutrition, such as encouraging social skills and celebrating special events.

Snacks Parents are required to provide two (2) healthy snacks and one (1) sippy cup of both milk or milk alternative and water for their child each day. Please label with the child’s first and last name.

Lunch Parents are required to provide a lunch for their child each day. After eating, the children play indoors and/or outdoors, supervised by the daycare staff.

Please note: In order to consider and maintain the health and safety of all children in our care, our center has adopted a “no nut” policy. This includes peanuts and tree nuts. Also, in order to prevent choking hazards for our younger children, we ask that foods with skins be cut in half. This includes grapes, tomatoes, and hot dogs. If a child has allergies or food restrictions, it is the parent/guardian responsibility to notify the staff so that special arrangements can be made. (see page 11, Allergies/Food Restrictions)

Celebrations/Holidays/Birthdays PGUSD is a multicultural community of people from diverse backgrounds. Our activities, programs and everyday interactions are enriched by our acceptance of one another, and we strive to learn from each other in an atmosphere of positive engagement and mutual respect. Sharing family traditions and holidays is an important part of our curriculum. Celebrations and holidays are shared with the children as special events and as part of our on-going program. Families are encouraged to share their traditions with their child’s class.

On a birthday, parents/guardians are welcome to bring a birthday treat for the childcare/preschool class. Treats must be store-bought treats in the original, sealed and unopened packaging to avoid contamination. Such treats are not monitored for adherence to the district nutrition policy. Please check with your child’s teacher to make arrangements and to see if there are any other allergies in the room so that all children can be included.

ADMISSION POLICIES

Requirements Our program is open to residents of the Monterey Peninsula. Priority is given to PGUSD employees, PGUSD residents, children with special needs and children with siblings.

The following must be completed before starting our programs.

• Child Care Application Form/Wait List Form • Enrollment Package • Immunization records • Emergency Information Form (includes permission to obtain medical assistance). • Parent Agreement • General Information Form • Registration Fee • Media Release Permission Form • Certificate acknowledging the parent/guardian has read this handbook.

All forms must be completed prior to the child starting the program and updated on a yearly basis or as information changes. A new calendar and handbook will be provided by July 1 of each year.

Wait List Policy A wait list is maintained by the office for the current and subsequent years. Priority will be given to children whose parents work in the district and to those who live within the boundaries of Pacific Grove Unified School District. Parents choosing to remove their child from the child care for summer vacations, other summer camps, etc., but would like to re-enter the daycare must reapply and be put back on the wait list. Parents who owe outstanding fees to Pacific Grove Adult Education will not be able to be added to the wait list (or they will be taken off the waitlist) if they owe fees. Once the fees have been paid they may reapply (the date of placement will be the reapplication date).

Space Availability Classroom space is based on our licensed capacity. Transitioning children from the Extended Day Childcare program will be considered on a case-by-case basis to our Extended Day Preschool Program as they become of age. Transitioning students to Miss Kelly’s class are on hold at this time as a safety precaution due to COVID-19. Please see our Safety Protocol FAQs.

Voluntary Withdrawal Parents/guardians are required to notify the teacher or Parent Education Office, in writing, one full month (30-day notice) before withdrawing a child from the program. The parent/guardian is responsible for all fees during the 30-day notice. Should the parent/guardian fail to give a 30-day notice, they will still be responsible for that month’s fees.

Extended Leave (Vacations)

If a child will not be attending the program for a period of time, the parent/guardian is still required to pay full fees in order to maintain the child’s spot. DAILY ROUTINES

Arrival The facility opens at 7:00 a.m. and children will not be accepted earlier. Parents/guardians must check in with staff upon arrival. Parents/guardians are asked to call the Parent Education Office or leave a message on the answering machine if the child will be late or not be attending the program on any given day. Please refer to our Safety Protocol FAQs on the new arrival procedures.

If your child has a difficult time separating from you, one of our staff will be there to assist you. It is important that you let your child know you are leaving and say good-bye. Keep it upbeat, let them know that you love them and will be back later that day. If your child experiences difficulty at departure on a regular basis, talk to his/her teacher or to the Site Director so we can make this transition easier.

Departure The program closes at 6:00 p.m. sharp (5:00 p.m. during the summer) and children must not be picked up any later than that. When parents/guardians are late to pick up their children, two staff members must remain after closing hours. The late fee after 6:00 p.m. (or 5:00 p.m. during the summer) is $1.00 per minute. For example, if a parent/guardian arrives at 6:10 p.m., s/he owes a late fee of $10.00.

If a parent/guardian is late more than once during a 30-day period, s/he will be charged $2.00 per minute the second time. A third late pickup in a 30-day period will increase the charge to $4.00 per minute. If a parent/guardian is late more than three times, the matter may be referred to the site principal and may result in the cancellation of the child’s enrollment in the program.

Our staff understands that some delays are inevitable, but whenever possible please have an alternative plan available. If a parent/guardian knows s/he is going to be late, s/he should call the office and let staff know by 6:00 p.m. (5:00 p.m. during the summer). If staff has not heard from the parent/guardian or the emergency contact person by 7:00 p.m. (6:00 p.m. during the summer), the school is required by law to contact local law enforcement.

When registering, the parent/guardian will be asked to complete a form with information regarding persons who are authorized to pick up the child on a regular basis. The emergency contact person is considered authorized in the event that school is unable to contact the parent/guardian. If the child is to be picked up by someone else, the parent/guardian must notify staff in advance in writing, by telephone, or in person. Children will not be released without authorization from the parent/guardian. Note: Staff members are not allowed to be emergency contacts and cannot bring the children home.

*Please note: In the case of single parent families, only the custodial parent is able to authorize individuals to pick up their child/ren. (Proper documentation must be provided).

Absence The Site Director must be informed if a child will be absent for one or more days. A message can be left with the office. Also, parents/guardians should inform the Site Director as to when their children will be away on vacation.

TUITION PAYMENT

Registration A $100.00 non-refundable registration fee per student will be charged upon admission. This fee does not apply towards your tuition costs.

Tuition Increases: Parents/Guardians will receive a one month notice of fee increases. When this happens a new fee memo will be given out via staff or mailboxes (in the classrooms) where applicable.

Tuition Payment:

Program Ages Tuition (2019-20 school year) Child Care 18 months – 36 months $14,400/year Extended Day Preschool 3 years – 5 years $12,000/year

As a courtesy, we can split the yearly tuition into 12 equal monthly payments. We accept VISA/MC, cash and checks made payable to PGAE. You may make a payment by any of the options listed below:

• Automatic credit card payment program- Preferred (Sign up with Parent Education Office) • Phone in your payment • Bring your payment to: Pacific Grove Adult Education Attn: Parent Education Office 1025 Lighthouse Ave Pacific Grove, CA 93950.

Tuition Due Date Tuition is due no later than the 5th of each month. In an effort to maintain your enrollment in the program, you must make your payment on time. There is a $50.00 late fee for payments made after the 5th of the month. Accounts that become delinquent may result in dismissal from the program.

No tuition credit is given for any days the school is closed due to holidays or any days a child is absent due to vacation or illness.

Returned Checks and Unpaid Fees Parents/guardians are informed if checks are returned by the bank as non-negotiable. Payment is to be submitted immediately in certified form only. There is a $25.00 charge for any returned checks and this must accompany the resubmitted payment. If checks are returned for any reason twice in any 12- month period, the parents/guardians shall be required to certify all future payments for a 12-month period.

Failure to submit monthly payment as required or failure to submit immediate payment for returned checks will result in cancellation of the child’s enrollment. Cancellation will occur within 30 days of failure to submit payment and for re-payment of returned checks.

HEALTH POLICIES

Immunizations Health Regulations are determined by the California Department of Social Services and the State Department of Health. For the protection of all parents and children in the program, the following requirements are necessary:

• Verification of your child’s current immunizations must be on file before your child may attend the program. • Immunization records must be kept current while your child is enrolled in the program. • For children 18 months-5 years, the following immunizations are needed BEFORE starting the program:

1. 3 Polio 2. 4 DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis 3. 3 Hep B (Hepatitus B) 4. 1 HIB (Haemophilus Influenzae type B) 5. 1MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) 6. 1Varicella (Chickenpox)

Communicable Diseases Head lice are communicable and any evidence of either lice or eggs (nits) will restrict attendance of the child in our program until appropriate and effective treatment is undertaken: Treatment for lice with egg removal. The initial treatment, which includes a special shampoo and physical removal of nits (eggs), is just the first step. Follow up is crucial, daily checking and removal of nits and extra cleaning of clothes and linen at home are necessary.

Please contact the school immediately if you or your child contracts a communicable disease such as strep throat, pin worms, chicken pox, impetigo, measles, mumps, pink eye (conjunctivitis), head lice, fifth disease, etc., so that we may notify other parents about possible exposure.

We will notify all parents if children have been exposed to a contagious disease while at the school.

In some situations, a written note from the doctor will be required for a child with a contagious disease to return to the school.

Should a medical or dental emergency arise, staff will refer to the Consent for Emergency Medical Treatment Form provided in this handbook and in the registration packet. *Please see Appendix “D”

Illnesses and Criteria for Return to our Center To protect children who are well and to prevent sick children from developing secondary infections, the PGAE Child Development Center requires parents to keep their children home if they display any of the following symptoms:

Symptoms Child May Not Return to School Until: The temperature has returned to normal for at least 24 Fever of 99.9 or above hours without use of fever reducing medication. Coughing (severe) including Croup When symptoms are no longer present. Thick yellow or green mucus discharge is no longer Cold/Flu symptoms draining from nose for at least 24 hours and coughing has subsided. Loose stools and vomiting have subsided for at least 24 Diarrhea/Vomiting hours and your child has returned to normal eating with no stomach upset. A doctor has written a release for your child to return to Earache/Sore Throat school, or has been on antibiotics for 24 hours, or symptoms subside. Conjunctivitis - 24 hours after starting antibiotics. Red/ Itchy/Watery/Discharging Eyes Spreading, itching and/or discomfort have disappeared or Rash have been diagnosed by a doctor as non-communicable. The child has been treated with lice shampoo and all nits Head Lice have been removed from hair.

A staff member who notices any of these symptoms when a child arrives or during the course of the day will ask that the child be taken home or to a doctor for a note confirming that the child is healthy and not infectious. The decision to send the child home will be at the discretion of the staff or Site Director. The decision to send the child home will be supported by the Site Director.

If your child becomes ill while at the center and we think it would be better for them to be home rather in contact with other children, we will call and ask you to pick them up with 1 hour, no later. Please refer to our Safety Protocol FAQs regarding illness.

Sick Children at the Child Development Center If a child is attending our program and begins displaying any symptoms of ill health, s/he will be isolated from the other children (brought to an isolation room) and the Site Director will call the parent/guardian to pick them up. If the parent/guardian cannot be reached, staff will call the emergency contact. Children must be picked up within one hour.

If the child is not picked up within two hours, the school will issue a warning letter to the parent/guardian. The school is neither staffed nor equipped to look after sick children for long periods of time. A child’s illness can have an adverse effect on the rest of the children and staff.

Medication The staff can administer medication that has been prescribed by a doctor, but only if authorized to do so by the child’s parent/guardian. If a child is on such medication, the parent/guardian is asked to sign the medication log and detail the times and amounts of the medicine to be given. Staff will not administer medication that is beyond the expiration date on the label and not in its original container with details about the medication. Staff will only administer medication if the prescription is in the name of the child.

Over the counter medication will only be given if accompanied by a doctor’s note. Teething medications (such as Orajel), will only be administered if there is a Topical Ointment Authorization Form on file signed by the parent/guardian. In addition, it is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to provide the center with medications which are labeled and unexpired.

Allergies/Food Restrictions It is crucial that parent/guardian (s) let the staff and Site Director know of any allergies their child might have, and what reaction to expect. Although we cannot change the entire environment of the facility because of allergies, every effort possible will be made to minimize the child’s contact with the offending substances. If your child has an anaphylactic allergy you must review the district's anaphylactic policy and procedures and fill out the symptom and emergency procedure form prior to your child’s start date with your physician. Additionally, you will be required to leave a epi-pen (s) at the facility. We will not accept children with anaphylaxis in our care unless there is an unexpired epi-pen at the school. Any child who has an expired epi-pen and a replacement has not been provided prior to expiry will be required to be picked up immediately and will not be able to return to the childcare until an up-to-date epi-pen is provided. Our goal is to ensure the safety of all our children in our care.

Potty Learning (Child Care Program Only) Potty Learning shouldn't be rushed; it is important that your child is psychologically and physically ready for Potty Learning. Huggies pull-ups (which can be attached and detached on the sides) must be provided during this transition period. No regular style training pant/underwear will be used at school until your child demonstrates continuous bladder/bowel control while at school. If your child regresses after this two week period, we will work together with you to assess the necessary steps to be taken.

Children in the Extended Day Preschool Program must be Potty Learned upon enrollment. We will assess transitioning children from our Extended Day Childcare program on a case-by-case basis.

Transitions (from Miss Jenn to Miss Kelly’s class) Around the time that your child turns three, they will transition to the Preschool Program. We understand that each child and family is different, therefore, they benefit from different types of transitions. Some children benefit from a two-week transition during which they are eased into their new environment. Other children find a drawn out transition confusing, and therefore, benefit by starting in their new class after only a few visits. For these reasons our transition schedule is flexible to account for individual needs of the child that may arise during transition. The teachers will work with you to determine the best transition for your child.

Transitioning students to Miss Kelly’s class are on hold at this time as a safety precaution due to COVID-19. Please see Safety Protocol FAQs.

Child Safety Plans Any child that requires special medical attention must fill out a Child Safety Plan. This plan will include emergency protocols for your child. Accidents In case of any accident that requires medical care, the parent/guardian will be contacted immediately. If necessary, the Site Director will accompany the child by ambulance/taxi to the closest hospital. The teacher will fill-out an accident report and notify the front office.

Child Abuse The staff at the Child Development Center are dedicated to their work with the children under their care. It is every staff’s legal responsibility to report suspected child abuse forthwith to the Child Protective Services. All staff members have been trained in Mandated Reporting for Child Care Providers.

EMERGENCIES

Emergency Contact Person Parents/guardians will be contacted if their child complains of feeling unwell or is in distress, even without any obvious symptoms of ill health. If parents/guardians cannot be reached, the emergency contact person will be contacted. The names/numbers of emergency contacts must be provided by parents/guardians and updated as required. The contact persons must a) be informed by the parent/guardians that they have been named as contacts and b) be available by phone during the hours children are in care. Staff members are not permitted to be named as emergency contacts.

Emergency Procedures PGAE has an emergency plan in the event of earthquake, fire, and/or other natural disaster. If there is a major disaster, children will be cared for on-site if it is safe, or moved to another location. Parents are asked to pick up their children as soon as possible, and to please limit phone calls. Although we know you will be concerned about your child, we need to be free to care for all children. All classrooms have first aid supplies, food, water, and blankets on hand. Sign out procedures will be followed. If you send another adult to pick up our child, they must be on your child’s emergency list.

BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT

PGAE Child Development Center staff members are required to comply with the programs behavior management policy. The goal of this policy is to foster a sense of respect and mutual trust among children, parents and teachers. Children are given clear and consistent limits. When a child tests these limits, the teacher will first encourage the child to articulate his/her feelings and then attempt to avert the child’s attention through re-direction or a quiet time away from the group. Through discussion, the child is encouraged to find reasonable solutions to combat further unfavorable circumstances. Parents/guardians will be informed of behavioral problems.

Conflict Resolution, parent issues, concerns and complaints *Please see Appendix “E” Please note that it is expected that parents/guardians will act appropriately and respectfully to the children, staff, and other parents/guardians within the program. Please allow the staff to deal and follow up with conflict resolution between children. Inappropriate parent/guardian behavior could also result in the child being asked to leave the program.

Issues, concerns or problems may arise, from time to time, that require attention and resolution (this policy does not reflect situations of harassment, discrimination or child abuse). Every attempt will be made to handle problems with sensitivity, ensuring that confidentiality is maintained. Issues that concern activities within the classroom should be discussed first with your child’s teacher assigned to the class. Problems with respect to the administration of the program should be discussed with the teacher or site director. In most instances, concerns are resolved through mutual discussion which will generate an agreeable course of action.

If a concern cannot be satisfactorily resolved through discussion between the parties involved, a formal complaint may be lodged. Formal complaints must be presented verbally and in writing to the Site Director. The Site Director will investigate the complaint and discuss it with the individual involved.

Termination of Enrollment PGAE reserves the right to terminate enrollment of any family if, in the opinion of the Site Director, the family has failed to comply with the policies and/or procedures or has failed to act in a manner consistent with the best interests of the program, the children, and/or the staff.

In either of the above situations, the first attempt to resolve the problem will be made by the teacher, staff and parents. If resolution cannot be reached, the Site Director will review the matter, hearing submissions by both the teacher and the parent/guardian concerned. The Site Director will then make the final decision and has the right in its sole and absolute judgment to terminate enrollment immediately. The school shall not be responsible for any loss or inconvenience that may result.

Suspension and Withdrawal The Site Director reserves the right to suspend or withdraw a child from the program in the event that: • It is impossible to meet the child’s needs within the program. • The child poses a serious threat to him/herself, other children, and/or staff. • Child Care fees are in arrears.

DAYS OF OPERATION / HOLIDAY CLOSING

The Childcare Center is open 210 days per year. Our year is July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021. Days and hours of operation are Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. excluding Holidays, PGUSD Professional Development Days and PGUSD observed non-student days. Due to COVID-19 our summer hours have been adjusted to 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. through August 5. We resume staying open until 6:00 p.m. on August 6.

Our facility is closed on the following days:

• 7/3 Independence Day • 9/4 - 9/7 Labor Day • 10/12 - 10/19 Fall Break • 11/11 Veterans Day • 11/26 - 11/27 Thanksgiving Holiday • 12/21 - 1/4 Winter Break • 1/18 Martin Luther King Holiday • 2/15 - 2/22 Presidents' Holiday • 4/12 - 4/19 Spring Break • 5/31 Memorial Day • 6/11 – 6/30 Break

*Please see Appendix “F” for the PGAE Child Development Center Calendar.

APPENDIX “A”

PACIFIC GROVE ADULT EDUCATION CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER PROGRAM STATEMENT

Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center is committed to providing a well-rounded environment for our children, families and educators. We do this by incorporating and setting goals for our program using the California Preschool Learning Foundations. At the Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center, we believe that children are competent, capable and curious and rich in potential. We will foster the following foundations of learning which are Belonging, Well- being, Engagement and Expression within all aspects of our program.

Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center was developed out of an identified need in our community and was funded in part through the Monterey Adult Education Consortia. The Childcare Center is open 210 days per year. Days and hours of operation are Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. excluding Holidays, PGUSD Professional Development Days and PGUSD observed non-student days. Due to COVID-19 our summer hours have been adjusted to 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. through August 5. We resume staying open until 6:00 p.m. on August 6. We service children from 18 months to 5 years of age. The childcare environment is designed to encourage and facilitate growth in all areas of development. We believe that children learn through play and interaction with their environment.

Keeping in line with the California Department of Education Early Learning Foundations and credential expectations along with those of the Community College ECEs, Pacific Grove Adult Education strives to support staff in their professional development. Staff will develop professional development plans to ensure they have the resources to support children and families within the context of “How does Learning Happen” and beyond.

PROGRAM GOALS:

Committed to promoting a healthy and safe environment for the well-being of our children:

• The childcare environment is designed to encourage and facilitate growth in all areas of development. Through observations of children, children input and meetings, the staff design programs for children to reach their full potential. Written observations are kept for children in all programs and available for parents to review and provide insight. • Beyond fundamental predetermined health and safety rules, we encourage the children to learn the boundaries of behaviors through a positive system of setting limits, thereby maintain self- respect and encourage the children to approach decision and problem- solving. • All food and drink meet the nutritional recommendations by the state of California. • The playgrounds are inspected regularly by the staff as well as by a third party to ensure the safest environment for our outdoor play. • Staff review all policies and programs annually and make adjustments when necessary.

APPENDIX “A” -cont’d

Committed to promoting positive supportive interactions amongst our children, families and educators:

• The staff at Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center create an atmosphere that fosters a warm, supportive relationship with the children and families. • We provide flexibility for individual needs. • Our staff understand that a child’s natural curiosity will occasionally cause him/her to test limits. Staff will direct children in a developmentally positive way. • Monthly staff meetings are a way for staff members to reflect on practices, discus with peers, research best practices and review new policies and procedures. • The staff encourage children to articulate their feelings and work respectfully with children to problem solve and resolve conflicts. • Our belief is that positive relationships promote better connections. • From time to time conflicts arise, parents/guardians are encouraged to follow the Conflict Resolution policy set out in the parent handbook. • All staff is to follow the behavior management procedure set out by Pacific Grove Adult Education. • Parent feedback is welcomed and monthly newsletters are provided by each program to support a sense of belonging.

Committed to providing programs that support learning experiences that incorporate community, family and the individual needs of the children we care for:

• Observations and/or portfolios of individual children and the group are used to help create positive learning environments and experiences to keep the children engaged and to promote positive interactions. • Staff use their knowledge base and research developmentally appropriate activities for both indoor and outdoor that provide a balance of active, quiet and rest time. • We encourage participation from our families and the community into the daily program. • Our program is designed to acknowledge and reflect our community and promotes mutual respect, understanding and a self of belonging. Parents are encouraged to provide program ideas that foster diversity. Staff will solicit this information with informal discussion with families and through written communication and through discussion during parent meetings. • Parents/guardians can participate in a variety of ways, volunteering, providing a favorite story, sharing creative ideas, or sharing insight about their child. • Field trips for our program are well thought out and provide the children with a balance of active and quiet activities that are developmentally appropriate. Parents are encouraged to volunteer. • The Site Director reviews program plans weekly.

APPENDIX “B”

PARENT INFORMATION FORM

Please sign and return to the Pacific Grove Adult Education Parent Education Office

There are many areas in which the program can make use of our members’ talents and expertise. However, it is difficult for us to know what they are. In order to help us, we would appreciate you completing this form.

We realize that the information you share with us is personal and we assure you that it will be kept confidential.

There are many different ways to contribute. We hope you can find some way to be a part of your child’s daycare.

Parent/Guardian Name: _

Child’s Name:

Occupation/Profession:

Area of Expertise:

Skills:

APPENDIX “D”

APPENDIX “E”

PACIFIC GROVE ADULT EDUCATION CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER CONFLICT RESOLUTION, PARENT ISSUES, CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS POLICY AND PROCEDURES

The purpose of this policy is to provide a transparent process for parents, guardians and Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center staff to use when parents and/or guardians bring forward issues, concerns and complaints.

Definition of Issue: A point or matter of discussion, debate, or dispute Definition of Concern: A feeling of worry about a situation/matter of interest and importance to someone Definition of Complaint: An expression of dissatisfaction; a situation that is unacceptable

Examples of Service Standard Concerns:

• Staff/Ratio • Food • Sanitary Practices • Playground • Adverse Water Quality • Lead Exceedance • Staff-Child Interactions • Supervision • Microbiological Exceedance • Hazardous Substance • Missing/Stolen Files

Policy: Parents/guardians are encouraged to take an active role in our childcare center and regularly discuss what their child(ren) experiences with our program. As supported by our program statement, we support positive and responsive interactions among the children, parents/guardians, childcare staff, and foster the engagement of and ongoing communication with parents/guardians about the program and their children. Our staff are available to engage parents/guardians in conversations and support a positive experience during every interaction. All issues, concerns and complaints raised by parents/guardians are taken seriously and will be addressed. In most instances, concerns are resolved through mutual discussion which will generate an agreeable course of action.

Steps to Follow:

1. Issues that concern your child’s teacher/activities within the classroom should be discussed first with your child’s teacher assigned to the class. 2. Problems with respect to the administration of the center should be discussed with the Site Director. 3. If a concern cannot be satisfactorily resolved through discussion between the parties involved a formal complaint may be lodged. Formal complaints must be presented verbally and in writing to the Site Director. 4. The Site Director will investigate the complaint and discuss it with the individual involved. 5. Parents should address all issues, concerns, complaints directly to the program staff. The staff member will provide feedback and a resolution in a prompt and thorough manner. Discussions between parents and staff members must take place at an appropriate time and location, where confidentiality can be adhered to, the classroom will not be disturbed and the children are properly supervised. Depending on the severity of the issue, concern or complaint, the staff member will try to resolve the issue immediately or the same day the parents notify the staff. The staff member will inform the Site Director of any issues, complaints and concerns the parents have and how they resolved it, if they were able to do so.

Steps to Resolve Issues, Concerns and Complaints

• Each issue, concern and complaint is considered on its own merit. • We monitor complaints and use them to assess and improve the quality of service we are able to provide for parents/guardians. • Complaints will be treated confidentially and steps will be taken to help protect a complainant’s privacy. • Complaint investigations are fair, impartial and respectful to parties involved. • You will be contacted if further action is needed outside of our expertise or if you are dissatisfied with your treatment or outcome. • Issues/concerns may also be reported to other relevant regulatory bodies (e.g. local public health department, police department, Child Protective Services). • You will be informed when a decision is made and provided with an explanation for the decision. • All written complaints will be responded to in writing or verbally. • Complaints involving staff conduct will be investigated and you will be informed when it is resolved, however no disciplinary information can be shared. • While there are certain steps that need to be taken to ensure fairness for all concerned, there can be unavoidable delays; however we will treat each case in a prompt and thorough manner.

What to do if you disagree with the resolution of your issue/concern/complaint: If the parent feels that a staff member does not adequately resolve his/her concerns, they then must speak/contact the Site Director. The Site Director will address the concern/complaint. The Site Director may schedule a meeting with the parent and the program staff to resolve the concern/complaint.

Issues/concerns may be brought forward verbally or in writing. Responses and outcomes will be provided verbally, or in writing upon request. The level of detail provided to the parent/guardian will respect and maintain the confidentiality of all parties involved.

The Site Director will make every effort to resolve the issue(s). Every issue and concern will be treated confidentially and every effort will be made to protect the privacy of parents/guardians, children, staff, students and volunteers, except when information must be disclosed for legal reasons.

Harassment and discrimination will therefore not be tolerated from any party.

If at any point a parent/guardian, provider or staff feels uncomfortable, threatened, abused or belittled, they may immediately end the conversation and report the situation to the Site Director. If the complaint is regarding the Site Director, the parent is to take the complaint to the District Office.

Our Code of Conduct sets clear standards of behavior that apply to all individuals involved in our program including parents/guardians, visitors, staff, volunteers, and students.

APPENDIX “F”

CONFIRMATION OF REVIEW OF 2020-2021 PARENT HANDBOOK

Please sign and return this page to the Pacific Grove Adult Education Parent Education Office along with your registration packet at:

Pacific Grove Adult Education 1025 Lighthouse Avenue Pacific Grove, CA 93950

The purpose of the 2020/2021 Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center Handbook is to inform you of the program policies and procedures in order to ensure that your child can have the best experience possible.

Please sign below and return before your child commences the program.

I have read the 2020-2021 Parent Handbook and understand and will abide by the Pacific Grove Adult Education Child Development Center Policies and Procedures.

Parent/Guardian Signature: ______

Child’s Name: ______

Date: ______