Policies and Procedures

Policies and Procedures4

SAMPLE of 2020 handbook: current handbook may differ slightly and have updated information

This handbook and the accompanying forms this material if they have questions regarding policies and procedures. I suggest that they reread this handbook after their children have been in care for a month when much of the information will seem more relevant. Please note that many sections now include responses for Covid-19 and you may receive updates throughout the year as conditions evolve with this pandemic.

Sprouts Home Child Care operates as an insured, license exempt child care in accordance with the Colorado Office of Early Childhood.

ENROLLMENT- 7.707.41 B1

INTERVIEWS-

An interview with parents AND the child to be cared for is required before any child will be accepted into care. References will be given to parents at the time of the interview. I may also require references from you of FORMER child care providers.

ENROLLMENT FORMS-

Before a child is admitted for care, I must receive from the parents:

an admission/enrollment form listing all emergency information
a health evaluation from physician
current immunization record
a NOTORIZED authorization/permission form to transport/trip and emergency treatment form, permission for topical preparations, permission for media use
and a signed contract.
signed handbook agreement sheet

If enrolling infants, clients must also return these additional forms:

a signed Acknowledgement of Receipt of the Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep Policy
Permission for Pacifier.

SIGNED CONTRACT AND POLICY HANDBOOK AGREEMENT-

Before a child is admitted for care, I must receive a signed contract and authorization permission form (which documents receipt of policies and procedures). Providers are required to make accessible to parents, a written document covering all policies and procedures

**POLICY HANDBOOK/ CONTRACT ADHERENCE-

This is our home as well as our business, so please be respectful of our family and home by adhering to the policies and procedures outlined in the parent handbook. We realize this is a lot of information to absorb. Because of this, please keep your parent handbook accessible so you can periodically review our policies and procedures as necessary. (handbook and other documents are available on our private Facebook page, under files, also) We reserve the right to amend any portion of the Parent-Provider Contract/Enrollment Application, and Parent Handbook at any time. Any time a change is necessary in the Handbook, parents will receive a two-week notice of the change and a new signed Agreement Page will be required. You will receive a new handbook each year if changes have been made. Acknowledgment of receipt and understanding of policy handbook will be documented on your contract.

Leniency of any term or provision in this contract does not invalidate that provision, term, or any other provision or term of this contract. (In other words, I often try to be accommodating, but that doesn’t mean I won’t decide to enforce terms/provisions of your contract in the future.) We do attempt to work with our families and make reasonable accommodations, as long as the accommodations do not fundamentally alter the child care program/home.

CONTRACT RENEWAL-

Contracts renewals will be sent annually in Feb/March. Renewal fees/contracts will be due April 1, 2021. However, any changes that take place in your family should be reported and changes made on the child care forms immediately.

the following covid -19 responses are expected to ease and be AMENDED with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination.

ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES- 7.707.41 B 2 / 7.707.6 B

UPDATED FOR COVID19 RESPONSE

THANK YOU FOR RESPECTING SOCIAL DISTANCING! (subject to change/update in accordance with cdc/tri county health dept guidance)

Updated 9/19/2021--Tri-County Health Department Public Health Order Requiring Facial Coverings for All Individuals Aged 2 Years and Older in All School and Child Care Settings -

It is expected that clients will check themselves and their children for the following symptoms each morning prior to arrival:
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Chills
Muscle aches
Sore Throat
New loss of taste or smell
Discoloration of toes

If they are, clients and their children must return home.

Drop off:

text or call upon arrival
wait for the provider to answer the door and conduct a temperature check and health screening,
enter the house if no fever or symptoms are detected,
have a quick chat with the provider to exchange updates
hug and kiss the client goodbye,
hand sanitizer will be available on the sign in table

Pick Up:

text or call me so I can meet you at the door
gather their belongings,
sit on the lowest step and put on their shoes,
put on their coats,
head out the door with the client

ALCOHOL AND DRUGS- 7.707.41 B 2

According to Colorado State Law, alcohol is not allowed to be used in a Child Care Home during the hours of operation. Parents are not allowed to pick up children if behavior or smell indicates alcohol or drug use. In the event you choose to participate in these activities, please plan to have a designated driver or a drug/alcohol free person come in with you to pick up your children. Failure to do so will result in the children remaining in my care until a drug and alcohol-free person can pick them up and late charges will be assessed until such time. Those late fees will be due upon pick up of your child.

TRIAL PERIOD-

Your child’s adjustment is important to both of us. To assure that the child care arrangement is a good match for the child and the provider; there will be a Two-week trial period. This will give your child, me and the other children in my care an opportunity to discover one another. Within this period, either the family or the provider may terminate childcare for any reason without a two-week notice.

RATES AND FEES- 7.707.41 B 3 & 4

RATES AND FEES:

TUITION per child $$$ Month ($$x186/day prorated over 10 months-see fee calculation below)

DEPOSIT $$$/FT(new), $$$/FT(returning)-dep will be applied to 1st months tuition

OVERTIME RATE per child $1.00/Minute after 5PM (or your contracted time)

PART TIME RATE $$/day (pre-paid monthly) not available at this time

DROP IN RATE $$/day

I accept cash, check, and venmo

FEE CALCULATION: call for current rates

Fees are calculated (prorated) using the daily rate of $$multiplied by 186 contract days, divided by 10, which is the number of months that payments are made, July through April (for Aug, 2021-May 31, 2022). 20-21 Sprouts Calendar is included in Enrollment pack.***please note: I serve multiple districts, so some dates may differ from your districts calendar.

For families who join us late in the year, monthly payment calculations will be made using the remainder of contract days in the year X $$/day, divided by the remaining months in the school year.

MONTHLY PAYMENTS-

Payment is due the last day of each month prior to care. I prefer VENMO (@Caryn-Amos), and accept cash, or check. Clients should keep in mind that they are contracting the month to reserve for their child and this time must be paid whether or not it is used-this applies to BOTH, full and part time. You may pay me electronically via VENMO @Caryn-Amos. There will be a $35.00 returned check fee if a check is returned for any reason. All child care fees are NON-REFUNDABLE, unless otherwise specified.

LATE TUITION FEES-

I have a “No Pay, No Play” policy! A $10 fee will be accessed for every 24-hour period your tuition is late after payday (the last day of each month). Your child will not be accepted for care until your regular childcare fee PLUS any late fees are paid in full. Continued late payments will result in the termination of the child care contract.

*HOURS- 7.707.41 B 6

Sprouts Home Child Care for are available from 7AM-5PM, 188 days/yr. I have added 3 days for the 2021-22 school year to better accommodate the multiple districts/calendars I serve. Please make note of the Sprouts HCC calendar included in your enrollment pack, there may be somedays that I am not available, there may also additional days accessible to you.

OVERTIME- 7.707.41 B 4, 7, 8

After hours is time with our family. Please be courteous and mindful that you arrive in time to be out the door by 5:00pm.

I charge a $1.00 fee for every 1 minute you are late picking up/leaving with your child (5:01). Late payment is due before care will be provided the next day.

In the event that a child remains in care for more than 60 minutes beyond pick up time without prior approval, social services or police will be contacted and your child will be considered abandoned. Your child will be fed a meal if they are here during our typical meal time and child(ren) will have self-directed play with in approved child care areas or join in whatever activities we are participating in during that time (non- transported).

Exceptions maybe made in the event of a blizzard, tornado, or other extreme weather. We will keep your child here until it is safe for you to be able to pick them up. Fees will be discussed for such care on an individual basis, depending on the circumstance. If you do not have a cell phone, please call us BEFORE YOU LEAVE FROM WORK in these instances, to let us know you are on your way. This will help us to be able to reassure your child that you are coming to get them.

We do not provide overnight care.

RATE INCREASES- 7.707.41 B6

I reserve the right to review and raise my child care rates periodically . I will provide at least two weeks’ notice to parents in the event of rate increases.

PROVIDER’S VACATIONS AND DAYS OFF- 7.707.41 B 6

The provider reserves the right to take up to 7 paid personal/sick days per school year. Parents will be notified as soon as possible if I am sick or taking a personal day. In the event of personal/sick time off extending past the allotted 7 days, the provider will take them unpaid; days lost may be deducted from the next month’s tuition or refunded. (due to changes in substitute requirements in 2020, this was increased by 1 day). Covid-19 response: should this child care have to close due to provider or providers family member contracting covid-19, the procedure listed above would apply

SUBSTITUTE CARE AND PARENT BACK-UP- 7.707.41 B 11

In case of illness in my family or an emergency situation, I may not be able to care for the children usually in my care. If my child care home closes, I will give notice so you can make other temporary arrangements. When possible, I will make efforts to provide a substitute, but offer no guarantee of success. It is requested that you to make plans for a backup child care arrangement at this time. Then, if the situation arises, you will be inconvenienced as little as possible.

I reserve the right to use a substitute care provider as my need dictates or to close the child care for the time I must be away from the child care home. In the case of closing the child care home for a part of a day, full day or more, my Paid Time Off days will be used.

Due to covid, I do not have any substitutes available. In the event of an emergency I will notify you and you will need to find care on your own.

HOLIDAY/SCHEDULED CLOSURES- 7.707.41 B6

Sprouts Home Child Care is open 186 days/yr and is closed when CCSD is closed:

Labor day

MLK day (stock show field trip day)

Fall break

Presidents day

Thanksgiving (w-th-f)

Winter break

Spring break

Summer break

WEATHER and other District CLOSURES- 7.707.41 B 28

In the event that CCSD IS closed, I will also be closed! Should a district remain open when another closes, I will be open for the open districts family only. Please check with local media announcements to verify the closure of these schools. These are paid days since they are beyond my control. These closures are typically due to weather, special circumstances do arise on occasion. Covid-19 Response: Should Extended Stay at Home Orders be mandated federally or locally-Because teachers are deemed essential workers, I will continue provide care for clients working from home full time and update guidelines and procedures as needed.

OPEN-DOOR POLICY-

In response to Covid-19, the following open-door accommodations have been stricken, to be re-instated when the current health threat has passed. Nursing mothers are always welcome to come feed their babies. Additionally, parents of tots and preschoolers are always welcome to pick your child up at any time of day and visit with them. However, keep in mind that these visits can be disruptive to the other children in our care and our daily routine. During times like these the other children have a hard time listening and following directions. If you would like to visit or play with your child during the day we ask that you take them out of the daycare to places such as your home, a park, on a walk, etc., after which feel free to bring your child back to daycare. We also ask that you do not visit between the hours of 12:00pm-3:00pm, unless of course it is an emergency or absolutely necessary. During this time, we set up for nap, have stories, and children go down for nap/quiet time and it is important that the other children's rest is not disturbed. If your child has a doctor/dentist appointment, please plan for them to come back before/leave after before or after this time frame, if possible. This policy is not to discourage you from seeing your child it is to help us run the daycare as smoothly as possible. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter. If you are interested in volunteering to read a story at story time, teach a new song/dance move, do a craft or another demonstration we would love your involvement! Let me know and we can set that up. For the safety of the children and staff our doors are locked during business hours (8am), so please call ahead before stopping by and we would be happy to open the door for you. We love that our families are able to visit with us and each other at drop off and pick up.

ABSENCES and TARDINESS- 7.707.41 B 6

If your child will not be attending daycare due to illness or other reasons, please let us know by 7:30am so the day's activities won't be held up waiting for your child to arrive. Also, we need to know how many children we need to prepare meals for. No discounts/refunds will be given for your child's absences due to illness or vacations. Tuition is paid each month to hold your child’s spot, regardless of attendance. If you are taking the day off from work, and still bringing your child, please be sure to leave me a phone number where you can be reached in case of an emergency.

TERMINATION OF SERVICES-7.707.41 B 3 & 6

The parents must inform the provider TEN (10) BUSINESS DAYS (Holidays/provider personal days off excluded) in advance of termination of the CHILD CARE CONTRACT. This notification must be in WRITTEN FORM. Parents who do not provide proper notice will be charged two weeks Penalty Fees equal to two weeks regular child care fees in lieu of proper notice. This Penalty Fee is due and payable the last day the child(ren) is in care and is subject to late fees as defined in the Provider Policy Handbook.

If all fees are not paid in full upon the last day of attendance, you agree to pay, whether or not legal proceedings are instituted, a reasonable COLLECTION FEE, which shall be 30 percent of the balance for any debt incurred and to pay reasonable attorney fees and court costs as a result of the parent(s)’s default.

The termination notice period is to allow all of the children in care an opportunity to adjust to the changes and to say their farewells. This time also allows me to attempt to protect my business from any loss of income due to the termination.

PROVIDER TERMINATION OF SERVICES: We reserve the right to terminate the contract at will. Except for reasons of non-payment or safety, we will make efforts give the parents a two week notice to find other care arrangements for their child. Reasons the provider may choose to terminate the contract include, but are not limited to, the following:
* If we (Sprouts) feel we are unable or unqualified to meet the needs of the child without additional staff.
* If the child’s behavior is destructive, uncontrollable, violent, consistently disruptive, or threatening to the other children or provider/staff at the child care home

* If a parent’s behavior is threatening or abusive to the children or provider/staff at the child care home.
* If parents fail to pay daycare bills on time.
* If parents fail to complete required forms and submit them on time.
* If the child demonstrated that they are unable to adjust to the daycare setting.
* If the parents fail to cooperate with or abide by daycare policies and contract.
* If parents knowingly bring a child to daycare ill or medicated to mask a fever or illness.

In the event that the provider decides to terminate the child care relationship due to repeated contract violations by the parent or legal guardian, the provider reserves the legal right to terminate the child care relationship without notice. To avoid the unfortunate situation from occurring, parents and legal guardians are required to thoroughly read the entire child care contract. Parents and legal guardians are expected to ask for a detailed explanation of any child care rules and regulations they do not clearly understand prior to enrolling the child in the child care center.

ADA/SPECIAL NEEDS- 7.707.41 B 9

Reasonable accommodations will be made for children with special needs/disabilities, as long as the accommodations do not fundamentally alter my child care program or home. We are happy to coordinate and collaborate with community service providers, therapists, families, and doctors in order to design learning activities that aid in meeting (to the best of our ability) outcomes/ goals of Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSP), Individual Education Programs (IEP), School Readiness Plans, Individual Learning Plans, and/or other individual plans. It is preferred that appointments work with our daily schedule-avoiding AM/PM naps as well as mealtimes.

NON-DISCRIMINATION-

As a licensed provider, I shall not discriminate against any person or family on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, religion, family structure, gender, or physical/mental challenges.

IMMUNIZATIONS- 7.707.41 B 10

All students must show PROOF OF IMMUNIZATIONS before attending. Students who do not submit an official immunization record or present a valid exemption will be denied admission.

Failure to meet Colorado immunization law within 14 days will result in exclusion from childcare until there is compliance with the Colorado law which states that a child may be exempted from immunizations with a physician’s medical recommendation or a written statement signed by the parent or guardian stating opposition based on religious or personal beliefs.

At any time your child may be in contact with other children who are non-immunized or under-immunized. This notification is in accordance with the State of Colorado Rules Regulating Child Care Centers.

****A child receiving shots or oral immunizations is to be kept out of care for at least 12 hours after, in case of adverse reaction to the immunization. Parents are advised to schedule doctor appointments toward the end of the day, preferably on the last day of the week the child is in care, so that the child has an opportunity to recover from the shot. Walking or crawling children need to be able to bear weight on the leg or body part where the shot was given and their temperatures must be back to normal before returning to care.

All family members in this home have been fully immunized.

HEALTH & IMMUNIZATION FORMS-

Upon admission, I must receive a completed GENERAL HEALTH APPRAISAL(GHA) of your child’s health status AND a current COPY OF IMMUNIZATIONS. The GHA must be signed and dated by a healthcare provider who has seen the child within the last 12 months or within six months for children under the age of two and a half. The statement must include when the next visit is required by the health care provider. Children under the age of two must be updated in accordance with the National Pediatric Recommended Schedule for routine health supervision or as required in writing by the health care provider. Health Appraisals for children ages 2yr-7yrs must be updated annually.

CLOTHING AND SUPPLIES- 7.707.41 B 12

Children must arrive clean, dressed and ready to begin their day. Please dress your child at home in sturdy, comfortable clothes and shoes to play in and in case of emergency.

WINTER MONTHS: a heavy coat must be brought DAILY. If we have plans to play in the snow, you will be notified the night before so you can provide hats, gloves, boots, etc.

SUMMER MONTHS: please provide a swimsuit for water play and apply sunscreen in the mornings prior to arrival. We will supply/re-apply sunscreen (30SPF) as needed to any child playing outside unless otherwise stated by parent on the general authorization and permission form.

SPRING AND FALL: a light jacket in to account for changing weather.

In addition to the list below, 2 complete changes of clothes including extra socks and a jacket must be provided for each child at all times!

Infants- TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS

-Diapers, wipes, and diaper cream -2 Changes of clothes with socks

-Bottles -2 Changes of underwear

-Formula or Breast Milk

-baby food until on solid table food -Extra clothing if potty training

-Pacifier or other comfort item (if applicable) -Comfort item such as blanket or teddy bear

-2 Changes of clothes including socks - Diapers, wipes, and diaper cream (if needed)

-sunhat -Sunscreen

I have an abundant supply of bibs for meals and crafting.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS- 7.707.41 B 13

Your child is welcome to bring a special blanket, lovey, or teddy that will be kept in your child's cubbie/bag and used at nap time only. We are not responsible for any lost or damaged items. Please do not bring your child's toys to daycare, we promote sharing and taking turns, this seldom works when it is the child's own personal toy. It only causes problems between them and the other children. Never send your child to daycare with toy weapons. Each child is expected to participate in clean up regardless of the time they are picked up, please this support this practice.

I will not be held responsible for any items that are stored, lost, damaged, or stolen while in my possession!

In the event that your child causes damage to my property or theft occurs-you, as the parents, will be responsible for compensation.

SCHEDULED AND UNSCHEDULED TRIPS- 7.707.41 B 14

We do not take trips away from my home unless it is to walk around our cul-de-sac. If we are ever away from the house, I will have my cell phone with me and you can contact me that way. My cell phone number is 303-437-6392. Permission for scheduled and unscheduled trips in the event that we must leave the home due to an emergency is documented on the General Authorization and Permission form.

TRANSPORTATION- 7.707.41 B 15

I do not transport children in my vehicle unless there is an emergency.

MEDIA POLICIES- 7.707.41 B 16

Television viewing, videos, computer, online story read-a-louds, and music are important issues for parents. We find that videos, and media mentioned above, can be important learning tools and must be used wisely, and limit viewing no more than 30 minutes each day with an occasional special movie on Fridays. All media used contains age-appropriate content (G ratings) and will not contain violence, profanity or other inappropriate content. Children are never required to sit and watch TV and TV is not offered in place of free play or learning activities. Permission to be documented on the General Authorization and Permission form.

MEALS AND SNACKS- 7.707.41 B8 & 17

The following meals and snacks will be served throughout the day:

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Lunch 11:00AM

Afternoon Snack 3:00 PM

I provide nutritious, balanced meals to each child on a daily basis. Parents will need to provide formula/breastmilk and baby food until infants transition to regular food. I do not allow any child to chew gum in my home. Parents who want their children to eat special foods must provide those foods themselves. Food is offered to your child at each meal and snack as long as they are awake. Your child will never be forced to eat. You will be informed about your infants eating habits each day. If your child doesn’t arrive by our scheduled meal or snack time, one will NOT be offered to them. They will have to eat before they arrive. I do not pre-plan meals so I do not have written menus for your review in advance. Meals and snacks may be logged on Daily Connect. If your child has food allergies, please make sure to notify me and we will make any necessary arrangements (you may need to provide food substitutes and an individualized health care plan as needed).

TRANSITIONS (infants) CUPS/ BOTTLES/NEW FOODS- 7.707.41 B 18

Breast fed infants will need to be transitioned to bottle feedings using breast milk and/or formula before the child begins care in my program. Mothers are always welcome to come and breastfeed throughout the day if your schedule allows, however, because infants feeding schedules vary, the infant must also be able to be fed using a bottle when breastfeeding is not possible.

When an infant has reached the developmental stage of holding their own bottle, sitting up, and crawling, that infant is ready to begin the transition to using a cup instead of a bottle. Infants that have reached this stage will be given a sippy cup throughout the day and at meal times to begin practicing using this new “tool.”

Toddlers are encouraged and transitioned from using a sippy cup to using a regular cup in the same fashion. We begin using a regular cup during meal times with water and as the toddler’s skills improve, they will transition to a regular cup completely.

Permission to be documented on the General Authorization and Permission form

No new foods shall be introduced to children under twelve (12) months of age without parental verbal permission.

COMMUNICATION- 7.707.41 B 19A

I am passionate about building strong relationships with the families in my care, and working together to meet the child’s needs. Please feel free to communicate any needs, wants and/or concerns regarding your child. It is only through good parent/provider interaction that quality nurturing care can be achieved. We use an app called Baby/Daily Connect to send daily reports (mainly for infants or as needed). Our days generally follow the schedule posted on the sign-in book/FB page. We also have a private FB page for photos, videos, announcements, and community correspondence. Your child's well-being is very important to me, and I want to keep communication open. Please ask for a conference at any time. If necessary, I will ask the same of you. Your complaints, concerns, or compliments are welcome--I can’t fix it, if I am unaware of the problem!

BEHAVIOR GUIDANCE- 7.707.41 B 19 & 33

I find that setting clear limits and consistently following through allows the children the most success. My goal is help provide children with skills to lead happy, healthy, independent, confident, and responsible lives.

I subscribe to the Love and Logic philosophy of child guidance, which provides loving support for children while helping them prepare for life in the real world. Love and Logic strategies help children grow through their mistakes and learn from the logical consequences of their actions in a safe and supportive, loving environment. Through Love and Logic, children learn to own and solve their own problems.

Many early childhood classrooms have a long list of rules; often too many for the teachers to remember, much less the children. I have found that one simple rule of No Hurting (anyone or anything) readily applies most child guidance situations. The rule is often phrased as a question, "Is that going to hurt someone or something?", which encourages the children to look at the situation from another point of view and to think about their actions and the consequences of their actions.

I believe the primary responsibility for raising young children rests with their parents and my goal is to support and partner with you for your child's well-being.

No single child guidance technique will work with every child every time, so it's important to have a variety of techniques from which to choose. The following child guidance procedures are preventative, not punitive, and are designed to help children accept responsibility for their actions, exercise self-control, develop social consciousness, and acquire the skills necessary for lifelong success in the real world.

Child guidance techniques are implemented consistently and appropriately, based on each child’s individual needs and the specific situation.
Teachers and caregivers routinely model respect, self-control, care for others, and socially appropriate behavior.
The learning environment is set up to encourage positive behavior and minimize frustration, with consistent routines and materials that can be accessed and put away independently.
Children are not shielded from the natural consequences of inappropriate behavior. (For example, a child who dumps out his/her milk will be handed a towel to clean up the spill.) This helps children to make a connection between their behavior and the subsequent consequences.
Logical consequences will be used when natural consequences are not practical. (For example, if a child rips a book he/she will be encouraged to help repair the book.) This allows children to learn from experience and practice making amends for their behavior.
Smiles, high-fives, hugs, applause, and other forms of positive feedback are regularly used to reinforce appropriate and socially acceptable behavior.
Redirection to another activity is the primary technique used when inappropriate behavior occurs. Often this is all a child needs to self-correct behavior.
Talking through situations and problem-solving are used to help the children discover more appropriate and socially acceptable ways to satisfy their needs.
If physical or emotional harm to him/herself or others has occurred a child may be removed from the situation until he/she has calmed down. When the child is calm, time will be spent discussing appropriate alternative behaviors.
If a child is crying, fussy, or distraught I will rock or cuddle him/her until he/she has calmed down. Under no circumstances will I ever shake a child.
"Time-outs" are rarely used as a child guidance technique. If used as a last resort, the time-out will not exceed five minutes, and will only be used with children three years or older; never with children under three. In lieu of time out, I will remain close to distraught children until they have regained control.

Some negative behavior is best ignored, since its goal is often to get attention. This technique can be used for some of the negative behaviors, but would not be used with hurtful or unsafe behavior.

If a child is having difficulty with self-regulation/self-control, and consistently requires more individual attention than can be given within the provider to child ratio, the provider will begin/continue observations and documentation to help identify patterns in behavior. A formal conference may be requested to discuss the situation. Where in, a positive behavior support plan may be developed to help support the child. If the child is still struggling, provider may consult an Early Childhood Specialist for guidance. Should it be determined that our program is no longer a good fit, or the child needs additional support, one to one care/lower ratio care, which we are unable to provide, it may be time for your child to move to a more supportive environment. I will do my best to offer options in support of this transition.

At all times the child guidance procedure will be employed in a positive loving manner to encourage self-control, to teach self-respect, respect for others and respect for property.

In accordance to licensing regulations, the child guidance procedure will never include punishment that is humiliating or frightening to a child such as hitting, spanking, shaking, verbal or sexual abuse, withholding or forcing food, or punishment for lapses in toilet training. These and other forms of physical punishment are prohibited and will never be used.

NAPS AND REST TIME- 7.707.41 B 20

All children under the age of 5 are required under state law to have a rest period while in childcare. Our rest time is from 12:30-3 PM. Each child will be provided with their own cot or mat, sheet, pillow, and blanket (except infants). Bedding is laundered every weekend and more often if necessary. Please provide any comfort item that the child can bring each day or leave here for nap time if necessary. For children who are unable to sleep/rest, books, games or other quiet activities will be provided. It is expected that non-sleepers remain quiet and non-disruptive during this time.

Based on the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics, we follow the infant safe sleep policy: All infants under the age of 12 months will be placed on their backs for sleeping. Positioning devices will not be used. Infants will sleep in safety approved playpens, one infant per crib or playpen. Children will not be allowed to sleep in “containers” such as car seats or swings. If an infant is to fall asleep in one of these “containers,” they will be moved immediately to their Pac n play. Sleep area will have tight fitting sheet and all pillows, blankets, comforters, stuffed animals and other soft products will be removed. When infants can easily turn over from back position to the stomach position and vise-versa, they will still be put down to sleep on their back, but allowed to adopt whatever position they prefer to sleep. Infants under 12 months that use a pacifier at home will be offered a pacifier in child care as research shows sucking in on a pacifier during sleep helps to reduce the risk of SIDS. Swaddling is also not allowed in child care, and therefore will not be used. Staff will remain within sight or sound of sleeping children and infants will be physically checked on to observe breathing every 10 minutes. A physician’s note, updated every month and signed by the parents, the provider, the physician and our Child Care Health Consultant must be on file if there are any deviations for these policies due to health reasons.

LEARNING AND FUN-

As a small childcare we are able to offer lots of individualized attention and tailored learning experiences. Your baby will learn language development, music, cause and effect, fine and gross motor skills and all aspects of development. As they get older will enjoy activities ranging from art and craft projects to games, songs, finger plays, storytelling, creative dramatics, exercises, science projects, shapes, numbers, colors, alphabet, and much more through various monthly themes.

ACTIVITIES-

We value that kids learn through play; because of this, we do not under estimate its importance on a growing child's mind, body and spirit. Therefore, the children under our care receive lots of both free-play and structured-play throughout each day. During structured-play children are encouraged to focus on a particular area of development. For example, things like play dough, blocks, crayon rubbings and cutting, all build finger strength and encourage proper grip so writing is both easier and more manageable for little fingers and hands. During free play, children can play with all of the toys readily available to them. Toys are switched out occasionally to keep things fun and theme related. Outside play is monitored at all times. Outside activities include: climbers, slides, balls, bikes, cars, sandbox, water table, running, jumping and enjoying the sunshine! During warmer months we have water activities/sprinklers. We occasionally enjoy walks around our cul-de-sac, you will be notified and asked to sign permission sheet on walk days. Please provide a sunhat for your infant. Infants are included in outdoor playtime but will be in the shade whenever possible.

DIAPERING- 7.707.41 B 21

Diapers are generally changed every 2 hours and more often if necessary. Preventative diaper creams can be applied to a child without a doctor’s signed form. If your child requires anything more than preventative cream, such as products used for a yeast infection or broken skin, a signed doctor’s consent form must be supplied before treatment begins. Parents must supply all diapers and any special treatment supplies. If your child required any special treatments, such as a certain brand of baby wipes, cream, etc., those will need to be provided by the parent.

TOILET LEARNING – 7.707.41 B 21

It is preferred that toilet training happen over breaks when you can give your child plenty of individual attention. However, we are more than happy to encourage potty training as long as the child is ready (typically between 2 1/2 and 3 years old) and can also pull their clothing ALL the way on and off independently for toileting. I do not use potty chairs or toilet rings, I find it much cleaner for little boys to sit facing the back of the toilet. Sitting this way feels more secure for little bottoms (they don’t feel like they will fall in) and helps with aim! The initial start needs to be done at home for at least two weeks with success before it can be effectively started at daycare. Parents will be required to supply pull-ups and wipes. Children will be allowed to come to daycare in cotton training pants/underwear after they have been accident free for at least two weeks in pull-ups. Communication between parents and the daycare provider is imperative for a successful transition from diapers to toilet.

OUTSIDE PLAY- 7.707.41 B 22 & 28

We will be playing outside daily for a minimum of 45 minutes per day as long as the temperature is between 32 and 90 degrees (with wind chill or heat index). Special consideration will be taken to adjust this depending on air quality, precipitation, etc. that may require us to stay inside or limit the amount of time we are outside. The presence of small infants may on occasion also affect our outdoor time. It is imperative to have the appropriate clothing for child to play outside comfortably. We live in Colorado and weather changes quickly so please plan accordingly. Your child has their own cubby; you are welcome to leave appropriate layers of clothes in their cubby to remain here at child care if that is helpful.

TOPICAL PREPARATIONS- 7.707.41 B 23

We will need written authorization from you (Permission/directions to be documented on the General Authorization and Permission form) to apply diaper rash ointment or creams, sunscreen and bug repellant. These items are for preventative care only. These topical preparations must arrive in the original container labeled with your child’s name clearly marked. These items will only be applied by an adult. 30 SPF Sunscreen that protects from UVA and UVB rays will be applied and reapplied per manufacturer’s instructions. Infants under the age of 6 months will not have sunscreen applied; they will be protected from the sun using shade from an umbrella or the shade trees in the yard. Children that don’t have permission for the application of sunscreen will need to be protected from the sun by being restricting their play to shaded areas only or clothing that covers the child’s body.

SMOKE EXPOSURE- 7.707.41 B 24

This household/childcare is smoke free. Second hand smoke will be avoided on walks.

ILLNESSES- 7.707.41 B 25 & 26

It is sometimes difficult to determine when to keep a child at home due to illness.

Kids should stay home if the illness:

Poses a risk of spreading a serious or harmful disease.
Needs more care than the staff can provide without a risk to the health and safety of other children.
Would keep the child from joining in activities (such as: overly tired, fussy, won’t stop crying, or for an older child, not feeling well enough to focus and learn).

These are some specific examples of when to keep children home:

a temperature of 100° degrees orally, or 99° degrees when taken under the arm.
any infectious disease
Diarrhea that is leaking from the diaper or that occurs more than 2 times over a child's normal number of bowel movements, or blood in stools that is not explained by medication, hard stools, or diet
Vomiting twice or more in 24 hours until a health care provider has determined that it is not contagious
Hand, foot, and mouth disease if there are sores in the mouth or drooling
Unexplained fever in a child younger than 4 months
Sluggishness, uncontrolled coughing, constant crying or other signs of possible severe illness
Conjunctivitis-pink eye--Exclusion until discharge has stopped if the child is unable to keep hands away from eyes.

If you are not sure if your child should be brought to daycare, then please call and check with us.

If your child becomes ill during care, you will be notified and expected to pick up your child within 1 hour. Sick children will be isolated and supervised in the kitchen until pick up, in order to reduce the spread of germs.

Covid-19 response (per https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/guidance-for-childcare.html#General)plan if someone is or becomes sick: (subject to change in accordance with cdc/tri-county health recommendations which update frequently)

an isolation area (in the kitchen near the railing) will be used to isolate a sick child.
CDC guidance on how to disinfect your building or facility if someone is sick with covid -19 will be followed.
If a sick child has been isolated (with the covid -19 symptoms)in your facility[child care home], clean and disinfect surfaces in your isolation room or area after the sick child has gone home. CHILD MUST REMAIN HOME FOR 72 HOURS AND SHOW NO SYMPTOMES IN ORDER TO RETURN
If COVID-19 is confirmed in a child-CHILD CARE HOME WILL BE CLOSED FOR 72 HOURS
If COVID-19 is confirmed in a provider/providers family member: CHILD CARE HOME WILL BE CLOSED FOR 14 DAYS
- Close off areas used by the person who is sick.
- Open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in the areas.
- Wait up to 24 hours or as long as possible before you clean or disinfect to allow respiratory droplets to settle before cleaning and disinfecting.
- Clean and disinfect all areas used by the person who is sick, such as offices, bathrooms, and common areas.
- If more than 7 days have passed since the person who is sick visited or used the facility, additional cleaning and disinfection is not necessary.
  - Continue routine cleaning and disinfection

By asking parents to follow these guidelines we hope to decrease the spread of infection and maintain a healthy environment for our students and staff.

By law, certain diseases and conditions are reportable to public health for surveillance purposes and so disease control measures can be implemented. Per Colorado regulation 6 CCR 1009-1 “Rules and Regulations Pertaining to Epidemic and Communicable Disease Control”, persons treating or having knowledge of a reportable disease, whether the disease is suspected or confirmed, must report the case to the state or local public health agency. This includes schools and child care providers. A list of diseases and conditions reportable in Colorado is available on page 6 of the document, and also at the following website (this website also contains links to the Colorado statutes and regulations that address disease reporting): https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/report-a-disease .

NOTIFICATION- 7.707.41 B 25

Parents should notify me if the child has been ill during the past 24 hours, even if illness occurred on the weekend. Also, inform me of any communicable diseases when they occur in the family. I need to know if your child has been exposed to a contagious disease such as: Chicken Pox, Pinkeye, Pinworm, and Strep Throat. In the event these diseases manifest themselves while your child is in my care, I will call you, isolate your child to minimize the spread of the disease, and expect you to pick up your child within one hour or less. If your child is exposed to any communicable disease, I will notify you as soon as I am notified.

When can my child return to school after illness?
Please use the following guidelines(not a comprehensive list) to determine when your child should return to school after illness:
●Vomiting or Diarrhea - When the child has been symptom free for 24 hours. If a student vomits or has diarrhea during the night or in the morning, keep the student home that day.
●Flu symptoms – When the child’s temperature has returned to normal for 24 hours. This is a respiratory illness that usually starts suddenly with fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches.
●Undiagnosed fever or rash – When symptoms are gone for 24 hours.
●Strep Throat or Scarlet Fever – 24 hours after start of treatment.
●Chicken Pox – When old blisters have formed scabs and there are no new ones.
●Conjunctivitis (pinkeye) – When student has been treated with antibiotics for 24 hours.
●Head Lice – When head is treated and free of live lice or nits (eggs).
●Scabies (body lice) – 24 hours after start of treatment.
●Impetigo – When skin is clear or child has been under treatment for 24 hours.

HEALTH EMERGENCIES- 7.707.41 B 25

Parents must complete the General Authorization and Permission form that allows the provider or a substitute to obtain medical treatment for your child, should the need arise. The parents must allow provider to call 911, the child’s doctor, dentist, or hospital if emergency medical treatment if necessary. It is understood that every attempt will be made to contact the parents or emergency contacts on the Enrollment form before any action is taken and if time allows. The parents must allow care provider to call an ambulance at provider’s discretion. Parents agree to assume any and all financial responsibility for the ambulance, response team, and medical treatment for their children.

MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION RULES- 7.707.41 B 27

The State of Colorado requires written permission from a physician to allow a Child Care Home to administer any drugs to your child, as well as a detailed administration log. These regulations apply equally to both prescription and over the counter drugs. Written permission from the doctor may be sent to the childcare home via email or fax. Until the written authorization to give medication is received, no medication will be given per Colorado Law. Prescription medication shall have the child’s name, name of medication, Doctor’s name, name of pharmacy, prescription number, date, and directions for administering. The medication must be in the original container as dispensed by the pharmacy.
The provider will return empty or expired medication bottles to the parent to dispose of.
Children who require daily medication must get a medical health plan from their doctor for the childcare provider to keep at the childcare home.
Do not place medication and over the counter drugs in the child’s backpack or diaper bag. Hand them to the provider directly.
I prefer not to give any medication. If at all possible, please give the necessary medication prior to care and notify the provider of any current medication. I would like to keep medication administration to a minimum.
Medication will be stored in a locked cabinet and given per doctor’s directions and in compliance with state standards.
*** I do not give routine medication or antibiotics. If your child is ill enough to need medication, they should be considered sick and need to be kept home. I will only administer medication in compliance with ADA or in the event of emergency, and must follow all the guidelines stated above. ***

PETS

We have a 1 dog(Gus) in our home. He is often part of our day, joining us outside, and passing through to go in/out. Children are supervised when around our pets, taught to be kind to them and wash hands after handling. *Vaccinations are kept current and I check for waste before playing in the yard.

EMERGENCIES AND DISASTERS- 7.707.41 B 25, 28, & 29 / 7.701.100 A, B, C & E Natural disasters do occur in Colorado. My childcare home will practice emergency drills with the children and keep a log of emergency evacuation drills. Our child care has become familiar with the accepted practices suggested by FEMA for the natural disasters that may occur in this area. No plan is a guarantee of safety, but we plan to do all that is within our power to keep the children safe. Parents are provided with our plan below to become familiar with it. An evacuation map of this home is located on the back of the front door.

Please note that in the event our plan/plans have to be implemented, we will do all that is possible to keep parents informed and stay in touch with them or the local authorities

Evacuation Of Any Kind: fire, gas leak, electrical problems, etc.:

we will have our cell phone (303-437-6392) with us and will contact parents as soon as our situation is safe. If cell service is not available, we will locate a land line and begin communicating with families.
We will leave a note on the door if possible and/or we will call the City of Aurora’s NON-EMERGENCY phone number and notify the authorities of our location if at all possible.
We will also attempt to leave our location with the Division of Child Care.
We keep all of your phone numbers in our cell phone and a paper copy of all emergency contact information and enrollment paperwork in our Go Kit so that we may get a hold of you as soon as it is safe.
Often, in a major disaster, cell phone service might be unreliable. In order to communicate with us, please attempt to use a land line to make calls or attempt text messages or emails rather than cell phone calls.
You can also check social media such as Twitter and Facebook as city municipalities are great about passing on vital information in this manner.
As a family child care provider, I am the main contact in any emergency.
non-mobile children will be transported in a wagon or stroller stored with outside the sliding door.
CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES and SPECIAL NEEDS: Procedures will be adapted to meet the needs of each individual’s disability.
Our go kit contains food, water, emergency contacts/files and other emergency supplies and will come with us if we need to leave the home for any reason.

We are registered with Aurora Emergency Citizen Notification System, ARAPALERT, and also have the NOAA emergency weather app to notify us of any danger in the area. Other resources: Emergency Radio 1650 KOA.

Where will we evacuate to?

In the event that we:

Have a fire: we will evacuate out the back door and move to the front yard through the gate or through the front door and move to the north end of the cul-de-sac.

must leave our home but not our neighborhood: we will go to Big Lots located on Hampden and Chambers.
must leave the neighborhood/area, we will go to McDonald’s on Illiff and Buckley or the Safeway at Buckley and Mississippi.

Tornado, Lockdown, Earthquake, Shelter In Place, Or Active Shooter Situation:

we will be in the lower-level hallway away from the windows and doors, or locked bathroom depending on danger/severity.
If we are outside when a threat becomes evident, we will move quickly inside and to our shelter location in the lower-level hallway, bathroom, or to another safe location if necessary.

Winter Storm OR Loss Of Electricity:

our home is equipped with blankets, first aid equipment, food, flashlights, and bottled water; your children would be kept very safe and warm.

CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS AFTER A DISASTER- 7.701.100 D

I am the contact person throughout a disaster and afterwards. If we need to continue to provide care in a different location due to an emergency, I will be the person to communicate that to you. Should the need arise that will require us to offer care in a location other than my home, I will immediately file an emergency waiver with the Office of Early Childhood to move to a temporary location or exceed capacity until we can return to regular business operations.

SECURITY-

The main goal of security in the Child Care setting is to protect the children and the provider. Exit doors are locked throughout the day, with the exception of arrival/departure times. Both the front door and the bac, sliding door have alarms. When the children go outside to play, I will be with them and check that gates are secure. If a person is sent to pick up your child other than a parent or authorized person on enrollment forms, I require prior notice of this person and photo ID will be required before your child will be released. Whenever possible, notification in WRITING should be given prior to pick up time.

ABUSE AND NEGLECT- 7.707.41 B 30 & 31

Per Colorado law, I am required to report any incidents or suspicions of child abuse or child neglect or domestic violence to the Department of Social Services or the Police Department. My first concern is the safety of your child, and if I suspect he/she has been subjected to abuse, I will file a report to proper authorities. Reporting suspicions of child abuse and neglect is always difficult. If I have questions regarding physical marks on your child or changes in your child’s behavior, I will talk to you. All parents want the best for their children. Sometimes, abuse is intentional, and sometimes, it is not. In any case, the child MUST be protected. I will try to respect your values and methods of child rearing within the bounds of safety and responsible child care practices. However, if it becomes apparent that the child is being harmed, as a licensed provider, I am required by Colorado law to report such cases.

Most lfacilities make every effort to provide a safe and healthy environment for children. Unfortunately, on rare occasions, an incident of abuse may occur. If you believe that your child has been abused, you should seek immediate assistance from your county department of social services. The statewide (including Arapahoe County) telephone number to report child abuse in Colorado is 1-844-CO-4-KIDS.

RECALLED ITEMS- 7.707.41 B 34

Every effort is made to remove immediately any toys, furniture, or other equipment that has been recalled either by the manufacturer or the Consumer Product Safety Commission. To check this list yourself, you can log on to their website at https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls

SproutsHCC does not participate in CCCAP or Special Activities