Family Handbook - Home Based

Family Child Care

Parent Handbook Heavenly Made Creations, LLC. Family Childcare

Family Handbook 2017-2018 School Year

Laverne Cheeseboro 7309 W. Passyunk Ave. Philadelphia, PA. 19142 215-365-8451 [email protected] www.heavenlymadecreations.com

Monday through Friday 6AM-6PM Providing care for ages 12 weeks to 5 years old PHL Pre-K for ages 3 & 4 Full Time Care/Part Time Care Pick up and Drop off Service within 1 mile Breakfast, lunch, and snack served Reasonable rates CCIS Accepted

Revised November 10, 2017 WELCOME

Dear Family,

Welcome to Heavenly Made Creations, LLC Family Childcare. It is our vision to provide your child a happy home environment and a safe fun early childhood development program where your child can learn, grow, and develop. We strive for Excellence and Quality. We value your trust as you place your child in our care. Heavenly Made Creations, LLC is a Family home child care where family, staff, and I are a team that work together to assure each child excellent quality care and education. It is our mission to give our families excellent quality care and a piece of mind. While it is our goal to teach and care for your children, it is also our goal to build relationship with our parents to develop comfort and become a part of the village in the childhood development for your child. Heavenly Made Creations, LLC provide age appropriate curriculum and activities to promote growth and development. We teach children how to develop respect for the world they live in. We teach positive conflict resolution. We teach confidence and self-esteem through encouragement, inspiration, and affirmations. My background and continued training and professional development gives me the foundation to fulfill my vision, mission and goals including more than ten years of experience with children, seven years of family child care experience, more than one hundred credits towards a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, and a level four Keystone Stars participant. My staff is educated and trained to assist me with providing the needs of every child placed in our care. It is an honor to be the place you decided to receive care and education for your child. You will be glad you did!

Thank you for choosing Heavenly Made Creations, LLC family childcare. We look forward to providing your child with a caring and enriching environment. Sincerely,

Laverne Cheeseboro 215-365-8451 [email protected] Heavenly Made Creations, LLC. Curriculum and Assessment Statement Heavenly Made Creations, LLC Family Child Care use Funshine Express Curriculum. We use age appropriate activities from Funshine Express with the children at Heavenly Made Creations. Funshine Express curriculum is structured and aligned with the Pennsylvania Learning Standards. We believe that play is the most important work of young children. We are always changing and updating toys and equipment, as well as art supplies. At Heavenly Made Creations, we feel that the adults are facilitators of play, providing an interesting room arrangement, choice of centers and enticing projects. We help guide the children in appropriate interaction with others. Courtesy and cooperation are stressed.

Young children enjoy routine because it makes them feel secure in knowing what to expect next. We also like to be flexible and spontaneous while still following a general structure. The infants, toddlers, and preschoolers have a circle time where we greet the children, play games, sing songs, and tell stories. We have an atmosphere where children are encouraged to speak up and talk about the variety of subjects, thus using their language skills and developing self confidence in group setting. We have play areas, clearly defined, as well as learning areas.

As part of this curriculum, we gather information about each child’s developmental abilities and evaluate progress so we can modify and adjust what we are doing in our classroom to deliver the best individualized instruction for each child. This evaluation is communicated to families periodically during the school year using various formal and informal tools, forms, and resources. For information about your child’s day, please see copies of daily schedules and lessons plans posted in each classroom. TABLE OF CONTENTS

Curriculum and Assessment Statement...... iv Philosophy...... 1 Mission...... 1 OUR VISION...... 1 Inclusion...... 1 Non-Discrimination...... 2 Confidentiality...... 2 Certification...... 2 Definition of Family...... 2 Hours of Operation...... 2 Heavenly Made Creations Staff...... 2 Emergency Substitute Provider...... 3 Holidays...... 3 Admission & Enrollment...... 3 Waiting List...... 4 Adjustment/Trial Period...... 4 My Qualifications...... 4 Communication & Family Partnership...... 4 Learning Environment...... 5 Outings & Field Trips...... 5 Television Time...... 5 Electronic Media...... 6 Multiculturalism...... 6 Celebrations...... 6 Rest Time...... 6 Toilet Training...... 6 GUIDANCE...... 7 General Procedure...... 7 Challenging Behavior...... 7 Expulsion Policy...... 7 TUITION AND FEES...... 8 TUITION...... 8 Late Pick-up Fees...... 8 Special Activity Fees...... 8 Late Tuition Payments...... 9 Payment options...... 9 ATTENDANCE & WITHDRAWAL...... 10 Absence and Lateness...... 10 Withdrawals...... 10 Closing Due to Extreme Weather or Emergency...... 10 DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP...... 11 General Procedure...... 11 Use of Cell Phones...... 11 Authorized & Unauthorized Pick-up...... 11 Right to Refuse Child Release...... 12 Cubbies...... 12

© 2014 CCA Global Partners, Inc. i Electronic Devices and Toys from Home...... 12 NUTRITION...... 13 Foods Brought from Home...... 13 Food Allergies...... 13 Meal Time...... 13 Infant Feedings...... 13 Toddler Feedings...... 14 Immunizations...... 14 Illness...... 14 Allergy Prevention...... 15 Medications...... 16 Communicable Diseases...... 16 SAFETY...... 17 Home Safety...... 17 Clothing...... 17 Weather and Outdoor Play...... 18 Injuries...... 18 Biting...... 18 Pets/Animals...... 18 Respectful Behavior...... 18 Smoking...... 19 Prohibited Substances...... 19 Dangerous Weapons...... 19 Child Custody...... 19 Suspected Child Abuse...... 19 EMERGENCIES...... 20 Lost or Missing Child...... 20 Fire Safety and Power Outage...... 20 Supervision of Children...... 21 Referrals...... 22 FAMILY ACTIVITIES...... 22 Tuition Payments...... 24

© 2014 CCA Global Partners, Inc. ii Philosophy Heavenly Made Creations, LLC family child care & Pre K will provide your child with a safe, homelike environment providing Excellent Quality care to assure growth and development. Here at Heavenly Made Creations all children are welcome, we believe that children of all ability levels are entitled to the same opportunities for participation, acceptance and belonging in child care. We will make every safe and reasonable accommodation to encourage full and active participation of all children in our program based on their individual capabilities and needs. We believe children should have fun! At Heavenly Made Creations, LLC we assure that children learn by play, positive speaking by affirmations, and values and principles by Christian concepts. These carefree years are so short, and soon the children will be exposed to a much more structured form of learning. Many activities that will take place which help promote basic skills (letter & number recognition, color & shape recognition, large motor skills, small motor skills, etc.), all in a small structured but flexible setting. Our goal is to guide children to become creative independent thinkers and develop in social, emotional, cognitive, and physical building knowledge through all five of their senses. We take pride in quality! We excel in Excellence! We Make Children Successful in a Changing World! Heavenly Made Creations is currently a Pennsylvania Keystone Star 4 facility.

Mission At Heavenly Made Creations, our mission is to provide children a happy home environment and a safe, fun early childhood development program. It is our priority to provide families with high quality childcare and peace of mind. We are sharing a piece of heaven here on earth.

OUR VISION Our vision is to teach children the skills they need to go out in a changing world and succeed. We exhibit commitment, respect, professionalism, and integrity as we guide and assist families in the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development of their children, and to uplift and inspire them to build their confidence and self-esteem. To teach empathy and help children identify their gifts as an individual and a citizen of this world.

Inclusion We believe that children of all ability levels are entitled to the same opportunities for participation, acceptance and belonging in child care. We will make every reasonable accommodation to encourage full and active participation of all children in our program based on their individual capabilities and needs.

1 Non-Discrimination Equal educational opportunities are available for all children, without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, gender, age, ethnicity, religion, disability, or parent/provider political beliefs, marital status, sexual orientation or special needs, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state or local laws. Educational programs are designed to meet the varying needs of all students.

Confidentiality Unless we receive your written consent, information regarding your child will not be released except for that required by regulatory and partnering agencies. All records concerning children at my program are confidential.

Certification Family Child Day Care Home Certificate of Registration Pennsylvania Keystone Star 4 Rating

Definition of Family In this handbook when I use the term family, I am referring to a parent, legal guardian, sponsor or anyone else who provides for the well-being, best-interest and responsibility of your child in our care.

Hours of Operation Full time Child care service is provided Monday through Friday 6AM-6PM 10 hours daily for your child. Pre-K is provided Monday through Friday 8:30AM-2:30PM before and after care is available if needed for a fee (See our Rates)

Heavenly Made Creations Staff Heavenly Made Creations is a family business where husband (Derrick Cheeseboro), wife (Laverne Cheeseboro), and two sons (Lamar and Umar Payne) work together to provide excellent quality care. Additional staff is hired as needed. Parents will be notified and introduced to any new staff employed with Heavenly Made Creations, LLC. All staff of Heavenly Made Creations, LLC has all background clearances, CPR and first aid certified, a cleared staff health assessment, mandated reporters, health and safety training, and takes professional development annually.

2 Emergency Substitute Provider There may be situations where Heavenly Made Creations, LLC may have to close. Parents will be notified as soon as possible in this event. In most cases there will be a substitute to continue care for the day. If I cannot secure a qualified substitute during an emergency, you or your emergency contact will be asked to pick up your child (ren) and the program will close for the entire or remainder of the day. Should this need arise, you or your emergency contact shall pick up their children within one hour of receiving the call. I will provide my emergency substitute provider with a brief orientation that will include the names and ages of children present, arrival and departure information for each child including the names of people authorized to pick up your child, the location of the children’s files including emergency contact information, consent for emergency medical treatment and any special health care needs. The emergency substitute provider will have appropriate credentials and clearances. Names of approved substitutes will be provided to you and a list will be posted on the bulletin board.

Holidays Heavenly Made Creations, LLC is closed on holidays and observance days: New Year’s Day (day after) Martin Luther King birthday President’s day Good Friday Memorial Day Independence Day Labor Day Columbus Day Veterans Day Thanksgiving Black Friday Christmas (day after) There will be early closings on: Thanksgiving Eve Christmas Eve New Year’s Eve

Admission & Enrollment There is an enrollment registration fee of $25 per child to secure your child(ren) slot upon enrollment and every September for reenrollment. An enrollment fee holds your child’s spot for one week. For one day drop off enrollment, tuition is due the morning your child arrives. ALL ADMISSION AND ENROLLMENT FORMS ARE DUE BEFORE THE START DATE, NO EXCEPTIONS, a 7-day time frame will be granted for the child health report when needed. After day 7 your child will not be allowed to attend until the form is submitted. Tuition is due on the first morning your child starts and Monday morning at arrival thereafter. We may request references during the enrollment process. Based on the availability and openings, this program admits children from 12 weeks to 5 years of age. Our process for introducing children to my program is: We suggest children come in to visit prior to their start date to see if they are comfortable.

3 Waiting List Children will be enrolled from the waiting list in the order from which they are listed. A family with a child already enrolled in this program will be given priority.

Adjustment/Trial Period Our program is a fun and exciting place for children to experience and learn about their world and make new friends. But it does take time for a child to adjust to a new child care setting. We will try to make the adjustment easier by encouraging your children to discuss feelings, providing extra attention and support, participating in role-playing and reassuring them of their family’s return. A two-week adjustment period begins at your child’s first day in my care. During this time, the family can decide to terminate the signed contract without penalty.

My Qualifications As CEO, Owner, and Provider I have 9 years of experience in the child care industry and I meet the Pennsylvania state requirements and qualifications. I also have an Associate’s degree in Medical Office Management and a Certified Nurse Assistant. I am completing my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. I participate in ongoing training and professional development in the areas of child growth and development, healthy and safe environments, developmentally appropriate practices, guidance, family relationships, cultural and individual diversity, and professionalism. Staff / Assistant / Substitute Qualifications. Any Staff, Assistants, or Substitutes that are employed will have appropriate qualifications in the child care industry and will meet or exceed the state requirements. A list of qualified staff, assistants, and substitutes will be provided to you and available on the bulletin board.

Communication & Family Partnership Daily Communications. We will keep you informed about your child’s activities and with daily reports. They will be provided verbally, manually, or through and Bright Wheel, an app you can sign up to. Notes will be placed in your child’s cubby or handed to you at pick up at the end of each day. Please be sure to check your child’s cubby for notifications.

4 Bulletin Boards. We have a bulletin board with program news, upcoming events, holiday closing dates, announcements and reminders, policies, and city and state standards and provisions all available for parents to view. Text Message and Email. We may send you announcements, event invitations, newsletters and general updates. Family Activities. Family and home is a child’s first teacher. We value families as partners in the growth and development of children in our care. 100% Parent involvement and participation is mandatory in our program, visit your child(ren), help your child with homework, participate in events and trips, and provide feedback on the program. It is very important for families to participate and support your child’s learning goals.

Learning Environment We provide a rich learning environment using the Funshine Express curriculum that is developmentally age appropriate and Aligned with PA State Standards. We have a flexible day routine that allows children to advance at their own pace, children learn together and also learn individually. We strongly believe that learning happens through play. Learning and exploring are hands-on and are facilitated through interest areas.

Outings & Field Trips Weather permitting, we conduct supervised walking trips around the neighborhood and to drop off and pick up the school children enrolled with us. Children are accounted for at all times. A permission statement for participation in walking trips is included in the enrollment package. From time to time, there will be supervised field trips, and we encourage you to join your child on the trip. Parents should participate in at least one trip per school year (September to June) with their child. Permission Slips for each trip must be signed by the child’s family. For walks and field trips, please dress your child appropriately for the season. Walking shoes are a must. Sandals and flip-flops are not appropriate for walking and make it difficult for your child. .

Television Time Our normal daily routine does not include television watching, but from time-to-time, we may watch a television show without advertisements as a teaching aid. Periodically we will have movie day. All Programs will be prescreened and will consist of non-violent and high-quality educational material. Our focus is to provide your child a positive experience with increased understanding of the world. Alternative activities are available for children during television time.

5 Electronic Media Electronic Media is limited to 30 minutes each week per child. Internet sites and software are pre-screened to contain non-violent and high-quality educational content. Alternative activities are available for children during this time. No electronic devices will be allowed to be brought in with your child. We will utilize sites such as you tube, education.com, and abcmouse.com when learning with electronic media. We are currently working on Phonics.

Multiculturalism Multiculturalism is vital for all children because it sets social goals and promotes respect for all people and the environment we inhabit. We utilize books, music, games, and a wide range of activities as aids to teach children respect for our world and the diversity of life upon it.

Celebrations Our celebrations and holiday policy encourage an enhanced understanding of and respect for different cultures and beliefs of children, families, staff and community. We will acknowledge and celebrate your child(ren) birthday unless parents prefer otherwise. As a part of our family appreciation and gathering we will celebrate Spring Season, the harvest season, and Christmas.

Rest Time We have approximate set time for the children to rest, however children sleep according to their own schedule. After lunch, all children less than 7 years of age participate in quiet rest time. Children are not required to sleep and may be given quiet activities. We have mats and cots available for each child in attendance. Mat sheets will be used for children to rest on. No pillows will be used for nap time. If your child has a favorite blanket, he or she is welcome to bring them. The blanket must be labeled.

Toilet Training Children 2 ½ and older must be potty trained at enrollment. Parents and Teacher will partner in potty training children under 2 ½. The most important factor in making the toilet learning experience successful and as low-stress as possible is a home/child care partnership that supports your child. This will be done under the parent’s discretion and within state safety guidelines. Most positive toilet training occurs only after children show signs of physical control or awareness of their bodily functions and when they demonstrate an interest or curiosity in the process. We are committed to working with you to make sure that toilet training is carried out in a manner that is consistent with your child’s physical and emotional abilities and your family’s concerns.

6 GUIDANCE

General Procedure Thoughtful direction and planning are used to prevent problems and encourage appropriate behavior. Communicating consistent, clear rules and involving children in problem solving help children develop their ability to become self-disciplined. We encourage children to be fair, to be respectful of other people, of property, and to learn to understand the results of their actions.

Challenging Behavior Children are guided to treat each other and adults with self-control and kindness. When a child becomes physically aggressive, we intervene immediately to protect all the children. Our approach to helping children with challenging behaviors is to show them how to solve problems using appropriate interactions and conflict resolution. When this is necessary, it is clear, consistent and understandable to the child. Physical restraint is not used or permitted. There are rare instances when we need to ensure a child’s safety or that of others and we may restrain a child by gently holding her or him only for as long as is necessary for control of the situation.

Expulsion Policy If a child’s behavior/circumstance is of concern, communication will begin with parents as the first step to understanding the child’s individual needs and challenges. We will work together to evaluate these needs in the context of this program. If agreed upon and we strongly encourage it is, outside referrals will be suggested and bought in. Parents must sign and agree to work side by side with us to resolve any issues of concern. In very specific instances, a child’s behavior may warrant the need to find a more suitable setting for care. This may take place after all options to resolve issues of concern have been exhausted. Examples of such instances include:

 A child appears to be a danger to others.  Continued care could be harmful to, or not in the best interest of the child as determined by a medical, psychological, or social service personnel.  Undue burden on our resources and finances for the child’s accommodations for success and participation.  Consistent rebellion and or disrespect to other children and or staff with no resolve.  Outside agencies, parent, and teacher partnership is not able to resolve and other referrals are suggested.

7 TUITION AND FEES

TUITION Please be advised that you are paying for a slot and not for attendance. There are no deductions for any absences or closings. Tuition cost covers school and early child development materials, and ensures the child’s spot is held for him/her. Tuition is always due on Monday with no deduction for any absences, holidays, vacations, or closures due to service days, professional development training, inclement weather, power outages, or other situations beyond our control. Payment is due as outlined in the Enrollment Agreement. Any request to make changes to an enrollment agreement must be made a minimum of 2 weeks in advance. The original agreement will remain until the set date. If payment received by CCIS does not cover the full tuition cost, it is the responsibility of the parents to pay the additional balance of tuition. Please refer to the attached tuition guideline to understand the breakdown of your tuition cost.

Late Pick-up Fees Late pick-up is not a normal program option; if you arrive late the following late fees will apply. We offer a variety of childcare options allowing flexibility, therefore excessive late pick up will not be tolerated. Late fees of $2 per minute per child will be assessed beginning 1 minute after your contracted hours. If payment is not received upon arrival, your child will not be permitted to attend until the late fee is paid. 3 or more late pickups can result in termination due to lack of respect for the policies in place, staff inconsideration, and facility hours.

Special Activity Fees From time-to-time there will be additional fees associated with special activities or field trips. These fees are due prior to the event, activity or trip.

8 Late Tuition Payments If tuition is not received on Monday even if your child will not be in attendance, a late fee of $15 will be added. If payment is not made by Monday at pick up your child will not be permitted to attend the following day unless tuition is paid in full as well as a $15 late fee. If payment is not received by the following day, your child will not be able to attend and may be discharged from this program, we understand things happen and we stress communication. We accept cash, square cash app, and Pay Pal as a method of payment to make it easy to complete the tuition transaction. We understand things happen, but Excessive late payments of 3 or more will result in termination. If the child does not return and payment is more than 5 business days past due, CCIS will be notified and we will attempt to recover payment in small claims court and/or your account may be sent to a 3rd party collection agency. You will be responsible for all expenses associated with these actions including all court and attorney fees.

Payment options Cash, Square Cash App, and Pay Pal is accepted. Money orders is an acceptable form of payment for child care tuition, however payment must be made the Friday before care is needed. Checks are not accepted at all.

Vacation - Our personal vacations consist of 15 paid days each year. You will be notified well in advance of these dates. We offer one week of 50% tuition during one these weeks. Payment is due the business day before vacation begins for the vacation week. A late fee will be added if payment is made upon return and opening after vacation. Families are responsible for finding back-up care for their children if they are sick, during holidays, provider vacations and planned or unplanned closings. I will do my best to assist with alternative child care if necessary.

Withdrawals - if a child is suddenly withdrawn from the program without a 2-week written notice of withdrawal, a 2-week tuition fee may be applied.  Credit will not be given for planned Closings – We have pre-considered planned closings including holidays and program vacation weeks in determining tuition.  Credit will not be given for Un-Planned Closings – We have pre-considered unplanned closings due to inclement weather, contagious diseases, etc in determining tuition.  Credit will not be given for our absence – there are no credits for days when we must close the program for personal reasons. There are 5 personal/sick days that are pre- considered in determining tuition and are not refundable.

9 ATTENDANCE & WITHDRAWAL

Absence and Lateness If your child is going to be absent or arrive after 9AM, please notify us. The cut off time to admit children to class is 10:00AM. If your child will be late we will not accept anyone late after 10AM. This considers the order of activities scheduled for the day including meal time. We make plans to go out weather permitting. We will also be concerned about your child if we do not hear from you. If your child is absent due to illness more than one day we ask that you provide a doctor’s note for the child to return. Absences can be a concern if they are consistent and prevent the child from keeping up with our learning program. Excessive absences may require a parent/provider conference and can lead to termination. Please keep in mind when your child is absent for any reason tuition is still due for the week.

Withdrawals A written notice, 2 weeks in advance, is required when a child is being withdrawn. Failure to notify will result in additional fees.

Closing Due to Extreme Weather or Emergency Should severe weather or other conditions (i.e., snow, storms, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, blizzards, loss of power, loss of water) prevent us from opening on time or at all, notification to the families will be sent by text message. Whenever public schools are closed due to weather conditions, Heavenly Made Creations, LLC will be closed as well. In the event of an emergency (i.e. illness and death, gas leak) parents will be notified as soon as possible. If there will be an evacuation parents will be notified where to pick up children. If it becomes necessary to close early, we will contact you or your emergency contacts as soon as possible. Your child’s early pick-up is your responsibility to arrange.

10 DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP

General Procedure We open at 6AM, and please do not drop-off your child prior any earlier than this time. It is important to arrive and pick up at the written contract times. Your child is allowed a maximum time slot of 10 hours per day. Any time after 10 hours will result in late fees of $1 per minute. If there may be changes in drop off and pick up time, please notify us for the necessary changes to be made in the contract. Families are expected to accompany their children and sign them in. We close at 6 PM, please do not pick-up your child later than this time or later than your contracted hours. Families are expected to enter our home and sign their child out. If the pickup person is not on the release form, release information will need to be updated. ID must be shown.

Use of Cell Phones Drop-off and pick-up are our primary windows of time to communicate with you about your child; In addition, children need your full attention now. Therefore, we respectfully request that you not use cell phones while dropping off or picking up your child.

Authorized & Unauthorized Pick-up Your child will only be released to you or those persons you have listed as Emergency and Release Contacts. If you want a person who is not identified as an Emergency and Release Contact to pick-up your child, you must notify me in advance, in writing. Your child will not be released without prior written authorization and a picture will be required for unauthorized pick up. The person picking up your child will be required to show a picture ID as verification. Please notify your pick-up person of our policy. If your child has not been picked up after closing and we have not heard from you, attempts will be made to contact you, and the contacts listed as Emergency and Release Contacts. we will stay with your child as long as possible, but if after 4 hours we have not been able to reach you, or any person listed as an Emergency and Release Contact, we will call the local child protective services agency.

11 Right to Refuse Child Release We may refuse to release children if we have reasonable cause to suspect that any person picking up a child is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or is physically or emotionally impaired in any way that may endanger your child. To protect your child, we may request that another adult listed as an Emergency and Release Contact pick-up your child or we may call the police to prevent potential harm to your child. Reoccurring situations may result in the release of your child from this program. We are mandate reporters and will report if there is any suspicion or evidence of drugs or alcohol or concern made by the child.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS What to Bring  Infants: enough clean bottles for a day’s use, and at least 2 changes of clothes per day.  Toddlers: enough clean bottles for a day’s use (if applicable), six diapers and at least two changes of clothes per day.  Older Toddlers: at least two changes of clothes or more per day if going through the toilet training program.  Preschoolers: at least one change of clothes, socks and shoes.  Kindergarteners: at least one change of clothes, socks and shoes.

Please label all items brought from home with your child’s name (i.e., clothes, bottles, diapers, pacifiers, crib sheet, blanket, etc.) to prevent items from becoming misplaced or lost. We are not responsible for lost or damaged items.

Cubbies Upon enrollment, each child will be assigned a “cubby.” Cubbies are labeled with your child’s name. Please check your child’s cubby daily for children’s work and parent notifications that need to be taken home.

Electronic Devices and Toys from Home We request that you do not allow your child to bring electronic devices such as Ipads and laptops and toys from home. Toys from home will be allowed when we have show and tell. No guns or any type of shooting type toys are ever allowed. If shooting type play items are bought in, we will throw them away. We cannot be responsible if these things are damaged or broken and they may interrupt the scheduled activities during their time here. These items will be returned with parents after your child is signed in.

12 NUTRITION Foods Brought from Home We request that you do not bring food from home. No food of any kind. No outside foods will be permitted when children arrive in the morning. We promote healthy eating and encourage you to support us in doing so; no junk food and sweet juice or food of any kind will be permitted. If it is bought in it will be thrown away. We follow Pennsylvania Standards for the food served.

Food Allergies If your child has a food allergy, you must notify us in writing by the child’s pediatrician so that we can make appropriate substitutions. The written notification should list appropriate food substitutions and must be updated at least annually. Food allergies can be life threatening and each child with a food allergy should have an action plan for emergency care completed by the family physician. A copy should be given to us prior to enrollment.

Meal Time At meal time the table is set with disposal or real plates and flatware. The children say a prayer of thanks for their food. Good table manners are modeled and encouraged. Weekly menus are posted for viewing by families. We are trained in first-aid for choking and always present at all meals.

Infant Feedings Infant feedings follow these procedures:  Bottle-fed infants are fed while being held or sitting up.  Infants are fed “on demand” to the extent possible (at least every 4 hours and usually not more than hourly).  Expressed breast milk may be brought from home if frozen or kept cold during transit. Fresh breast milk must be used within 48 hours. Previously frozen, thawed breast milk must be used within 24 hours. Bottles must be clearly labeled with your child’s name and the date the milk was expressed. Frozen breast milk must be dated and may be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.  Solid foods will only be introduced after a consultation with the child’s family.

13 Toddler Feedings  Children are encouraged to self-feed to the extent that they have the skills. Children are encouraged, but not forced to eat a variety of foods.  Round, firm foods that pose a choking hazard for children less than 4 years of age are not permitted. These foods include: hot dogs, whole grapes, peanuts, popcorn, thickly spread peanut butter and hard candy.

HEALTH A child health assessment form must be filled out to completion by the child’s pediatrician and submitted prior to or on the first day the child receives care. There will only be one exception of 7 days to give a doctor time to complete the form. Children will not be allowed to attend without this form completed. Parents will be required to keep these forms up to date throughout the year when necessary and renewed annually. For infants through 12 months a new form should be submitted every 6 months. 13 months through five years old forms must be completed once a year.

Immunizations Immunizations are required according to the current schedule recommended by the U.S. Public Health Services and the American Academy of Pediatrics, www.aap.org. Every January, we check with the public health department or the American Academy of Pediatrics for updates of the recommended immunization schedule. If a child is not going to be immunized for medical or religious reasons, the parent will be asked to complete a form required by state regulations. Unimmunized children are excluded during outbreaks of vaccine preventable illness as directed by the state health department.

Illness We understand that it is difficult for a family member to leave or miss work, but to protect myself, staff, the other children, and my family you may not bring a sick child to this program. We have the right to refuse a child who appears ill. Attempting to bring your child masking symptoms can be grounds for immediate termination. If your child gets sick you will be called and asked to retrieve your child if your child exhibits any of the following symptoms. You or an emergency contact will be required to pick your child up within one hour of being called. 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. Parents must inform the daycare within 24 of a diagnosis or a serious illness or contagious disease. Parents agree that a child will be symptom free without the aid of symptom reducing medications for a full 24 hours prior to returning to daycare. In most cases children will need a doctor’s note to return, therefore we reserve the right to ask for a doctor’s note at the child’s return. This is to protect the family and staff of Heavenly Made

14 Illness Continued Creations, LLC as well as other children attending. Failure to do so is grounds for immediate termination of care. Please do not bring your child if he/she has:  Pain – any complaint or unexplained or undiagnosed pain.  Known or suspected communicable diseases.  Rapid or labored breathing  Severe cold and or constant runny nose and or excessive coughing.  Flu  Contagious Illness that prevents your child from participating in activities.  Headache or stiff neck.  Fever (above 100°F under the arm, above 101°F in the mouth, above 102°F in the ear) accompanied by other symptoms.  Diarrhea – stools with blood or mucus, and/or uncontrolled, unformed stools that cannot be contained in a diaper/underwear or toilet.  Vomiting – green or bloody, and/or 2 or more times during the previous 24 hours.  Mouth sores caused by drooling.  Rash with fever, unless a physician has determined it is not a communicable disease.  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.  Chickenpox, until all lesions have dried and crusted.  Pertussis (Whooping Cough), until 5 days of antibiotics.  Hepatitis A virus, until one week after immune globulin has been administered.

Allergy Prevention Families are expected to notify us regarding children’s food and environmental allergies. Families of children with diagnosed allergies are required to provide me a letter and when necessary a doctor’s note detailing your child’s symptoms, reactions, treatments and care.

15 Medications All medications should be handed to us with specific instructions for administration. Medications should never be left in your child’s cubby or with your child to administer on their own. We will ensure that the medication is recorded along with the directions and proceed to dispense the medication as directed.  Prescription medications require a note signed by the family and a written order from your child’s physician. The label on the medication meets this requirement. The medication must include your child’s name, dosage, current date, frequency, and the name and phone number of the physician. All medications must be in the original container (you may request pharmacies to fill your prescription in two labeled bottles). Please specify the dosage and time(s) to be administered for each medication. We also have a form for parents to sign giving us permission to administer medication to your child.  Non-prescription medications require a note signed by the parents and pediatrician. Non-prescription medication will not be administered for more than a 3-day period unless a written order by the physician is received.  Non-prescription topical ointments (e.g., diaper cream) require a note signed by the parents and pediatrician, specifying frequency and dosage to be administered. We also have a non-prescription form for parents to sign permission for us to administer.

Communicable Diseases When a child in this program has a suspected reportable disease, it is our legal responsibility to notify the local Board of Health or Department of Public Health. We will also notify families about exposure so children can receive preventive treatments. Included among the reportable illnesses are the following:

 Bacterial Meningitis  Botulism  Chicken Pox  Diphtheria  Heamophilus Influenza (invasive)  Measles (including suspect)  Meningococcal Infection (invasive)  Poliomyelitis (including suspect)  Rabies (human only)  Rubella Congenital and Non-congenital (including suspect)  Tetanus (including suspect)  H1N1 Virus

16  Any cluster/outbreak of illness

SAFETY

Home Safety We pride ourselves in having a warm, loving and safe environment in which your child can explore, learn and experience many different things. Some features that help ensure your child’s safety are: □ Working smoke detectors are on each floor and near cooking and sleeping areas. □ Working carbon monoxide detectors are near the sleeping area. □ Adequate Ventilation throughout our home. □ No guns or firearms on premises. □ Gates are used on stairways when children under 5 years old are present. □ Fire extinguishers are maintained properly. □ Toys are age appropriate, in good repair and of a non-violent nature. □ Electrical outlets are covered. □ Pens, pencils and office supplies are out of reach. □ Knives and adult scissors are out of reach. □ Cleaners, chemicals, matches and fire starters are out of reach. □ The hot water heater is regulated at 120°F. □ Video cameras in the areas the children are located. □ Medications are out of reach. □ A well-stocked first aid kit is kept near and expiration dates are observed. □ Animals are child-friendly, properly immunized and in good health. □ We are certified in Infant & Child CPR and Pediatric First Aid. □ Hot radiator and water pipes are covered or out of reach or not very hot to the touch. □ Safe grassy areas to play. □ Safety approved play equipment and toys. □ Children do not play outside unsupervised.

Clothing Please dress your child in practical clothing that allows for freedom of movement and is appropriate for the weather. Your child will be involved in a variety of activities including: painting, outdoor play, sand, weather, and other sensory activities. We also go for walks and to the park during the day weather permitting. One particular aspect of concern is the risk associated with children’s clothing that may become entangled with climbing or sliding equipment that could lead to choking or other serious harm. All drawstrings from children’s clothes should be removed as a precaution. Sandals and flip-flops are not appropriate for program play and make it difficult for your child to participate in some activities.

17 Weather and Outdoor Play Children are expected to go outside when the forecast temperature/wind chill is above 25°, the temperature/heat index is less than 90°, there is no precipitation falling, and no quality air alert.

Injuries First aid will be administered by us in the unlikely event that your child sustains a minor injury (e.g., scraped knee). You will receive a report outlining the incident and course of action taken. If the injury produces any type of swelling or needs medical attention, you will be contacted immediately. We are equipped with a first aid kit meeting the state regulations. In the event of a serious medical emergency, your child will be taken to the hospital immediately by ambulance, while we will try to contact you or an emergency contact.

Biting Biting is a normal stage of development that is common among infants and toddlers – and sometimes even among preschoolers. It is something that most young children will try at least once. When biting happens, our response will be to care for and help the child who was bitten and to help the biter learn a more appropriate behavior. Our focus will not be on punishment for biting, but on effective behaviors that address the specific reason for biting. Notes will be written to the family of the child who was bitten and the biter’s family. We will work with the families of both to keep them informed and to develop strategies for change.

Pets/Animals We have four pets on the premises. We have 1 dog (Mya), 1 cat (Shy), 1 Beta Fish, and 1 turtle (Eclipse). The pets on my premises are family friendly, deemed healthy by a veterinarian and are current on all immunizations. Paperwork for the animals is kept on file here at Heavenly Made Creations, LLC. For a safe comfort level of parents and children we keep the animals in areas of the home away from the children and the day care area. Sometimes we may walk the small dog on a walk with the children; however, for allergy and germ concerns we do not allow physical interaction between the children and animals.

Respectful Behavior All children and families will be treated with respect and dignity. In return, we expect the same from all families. We will not tolerate hostile or aggressive behavior. If this occurs, we reserve the right to ask you to control your behavior or to remove your child from our care.

18 Smoking The poisons in secondhand smoke of any kind is especially harmful to infants and young children’s developing bodies, therefore the indoor and outdoor program environment and vehicles used by my program are non-smoking areas at all times. The use of tobacco in any form is prohibited on our program’s premises.

Prohibited Substances Any adult who appears to be inebriated, intoxicated, or otherwise under the influence is required to leave the premises immediately. As a mandated reporter, an incident such as this will be reported.

Dangerous Weapons A dangerous weapon is a gun, knife, razor, or any other object, which by the manner it is used or intended to be used, is capable of inflicting bodily harm. Families, children or guests (other than law enforcement officers) possessing a dangerous weapon will not be permitted onto the premises. In cases that clearly involve a gun, or any other weapon on my premises, the police will be called and the individual(s) involved will be immediately removed from the premises. This policy applies to visible or concealed weapons.

Child Custody Without a court document, both parents/guardians have equal rights to custody. We are legally bound to respect the wishes of the parent/guardian with legal custody based on a certified copy of the most recent court order, active restraining order, or court-ordered visitation schedule. We will not accept the responsibility of deciding which parent/guardian has legal custody where there is no court documentation.

Suspected Child Abuse We are required by law to report all observations of child abuse or neglect cases to the appropriate state authorities if we have reasonable cause to believe or suspect a child is suffering from abuse or neglect or is in danger of abuse or neglect, no matter where the abuse might have occurred. The child protective service agency will determine appropriate action and may conduct an investigation. It then becomes the role of the agency to determine if the report is substantiated and to work with the family to ensure the child’s needs are met. This program will cooperate fully with any investigation and will maintain confidentiality concerning any report of child abuse or neglect.

19 EMERGENCIES

Lost or Missing Child In the unlikely event that a child becomes lost or separated from the group during an outing or fieldtrip and is not located within 10 minutes, the family and the police will be notified.

Fire Safety and Power Outage There are two fire extinguishers located in the home. One is located in the kitchen and one located in the living room. There are smoke alarms on the top and bottom level of the home, and carbon monoxide alarm in the basement. There are outdoor lights in the front and back of the property. We have a fire evacuation plan is reviewed with the children on a monthly basis. There are flashlights in the kitchen, dining room, living room, and upstairs in the event of a power outage. If there is inclement weather during a power outage, you will be called to pick up your child. Emergency Transportation In the event your child needs to be transported due to a medical emergency, if no other authorized person can be contacted and the need for transportation is essential, an ambulance will be called for transportation. A proper escort will accompany and remain with your child until a family member or emergency contact arrives.

20 Termination If for some reason you no longer want to receive child care from Heavenly Made Creations, LLC we require a two-week written notice. Payment will continue to be due during the two weeks even in the event the child is not in attendance. Any outstanding fees must be paid on or before the child’s last day. If we can no longer provide care for your child for one reason or another, we will give you a two-week notice, if possible. There might be a time when immediate termination will be warranted, and as we both understand it is not easy to find day care, it is important for policies to be understood, respected, and abided by. We will do our best to provide you with helpful resources needed in the event this takes place for any reason. There are some instances where referring a family to another facility will not qualify. Examples of why we would terminate your child’s care with or without notice include (but may not be limited to): *Failure to complete and *Failure of the child to *Excessive late pick up or return required forms adjust to the facility after a absences. reasonable amount of time. *Lack of parental cooperation and *Lack of respect for the participation provider, staff, or other children by parent or child *Consistent late or non- payment *My inability to meet the child’s needs without *Violence upon a parent or additional staff child *Bringing children while sick and or masking illness or symptoms

Supervision of Children Children in and on the facility and on facility excursions off the premises shall and will be supervised by a staff person at all times. Outdoor play space used by the facility is considered part of the facility premises. The requirement for supervision on and off the facility premises includes compliance with the staff child ratio requirements. This facility will not use any form of physical punishment including spanking a child. This facility will not single out a child for ridicule, threaten harm to the child or the child’s family and may not specifically aim to degrade the child or the child’s family. This facility will not use harsh, demeaning or abusive language in presence of children. This facility will not restrain a child by using bonds, ties or straps to restrict a child’s movement or by enclosing the child in a confined space, closet or locked room. The prohibition against restraining a child does not apply to the use of adaptive equipment prescribed for a child with special needs.

21 Referrals Having a conversation about the need for an outside resource can be difficult. The following are the procedures to refer families to appropriate social, mental health, educational, wellness, and medical services. We have an open door policy to discuss and refer any referral needs our families may have. We will assure you the confidentialy you should have. Your information will only be released if you sign for it to be released per our policy. It is very important for us to sit with you and discuss any concerns, needs, ideas, or topics our families would like to discuss. We are open to discussing any cultural differences your family have. It is our priority to provide the necessary support our families that receive our care may need, be it concrete support in times of need, social connections, or knowledge of parenting and child development.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES From time to time, I offer an opportunity for families to participate in the activities that help with growth and improvement of their child’s education. I encourage families to take an active role. Examples of Family Events: Please be sure to look at the Bulletin Board for announcements of these activities and events. • Holiday Gathering • Book Swap • Harvest party • Annual Family Picnic Program Activities: Enjoy and help your child’s class with these special activities. • Share a meal with your child • Chaperone field trips • Read to children at arrival or pickup • Volunteer in the classroom • Donate requested items • Contribute to Pot Luck Meal • Family Teacher conferences

22 Family Activities continued

Family/Parent Workshops: Family workshops change as needed. Below is a list of workshops I may offer. I try to offer or refer these workshops in the evening or on a Saturday. See the monthly calendar on the Bulletin Board for scheduled topics. I welcome requests for workshop topics. • Positive Guidance and Loving Discipline • Toilet Training • Safety in the Home • Child Proofing Your Home • Brain Development • Nutrition and Exercise for Small Bodies • Supporting Your Child in Times of Stress • Food Allergies • How to Prepare for a Conference  Warning Signs for Developmental Delays  Value of Reading to Your Child  Everyday Math

23 Tuition Payments

PAYMENT IS DUE ON MONDAY AT TIME OF ARRIVAL

Full-time ~ Up to 50 hours per week. Maximum 10 hours a day. $25 enrollment fee to secure your child’s slot Weekly Rates as follows Full Time for all ages - $240 Part-time ~ Up to 25 hours per week. Maximum 5 hours a day. Part Time for school age - $160 (Covers early dismissals from school Part time for non-school age - $120 After care for Pre- K - $60

**Rates increase every September**

24 Family Handbook Acknowledgement

Please sign this acknowledgement, detach it from the handbook, and return it prior to enrollment.

The parent handbook may be updated from time-to-time; there will be a notice as updates are implemented.

Thank you for acknowledging the policies and procedures we have set up are for the safety and welfare of all children in my care. We look forward to getting to know you and your family.

I have received and reviewed the Family Handbook. It is my responsibility to understand and familiarize myself the Family Handbook and to ask questions if I do not understand any policies, procedures or information contained in the Family Handbook.

Recipient Signature Date

Provider’s Signature Date