WHITE PICKET PLAYHOUSE POLICY GUIDE
DISCLAIMER
We offer a professional early childhood program that implements many of the same procedures and protocols that larger establishments use to ensure health, safety, education, and support for students and their families. We have carefully formed our policies in an attempt to guarantee that we are meeting the needs and expectations of each prospective family in the best possible way. We are invested in what we provide and want to ensure that everyone is accommodated fairly while we, as a small business, remain protected from any potential misconduct amongst those that we serve. We pride ourselves in being understanding and inclusive to individual circumstances and strive to approach each relationship with flexibility and consideration. Most instances will be approached on a case by case basis. Please consider all information carefully before proceeding with enrollment.
HOURS OF OPERATION
We are generally open from 7:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday, however, we do our best to accommodate the schedules of parents/guardians and may make exceptions if previously discussed and an agreement has been made prior to enrollment (convenience fee may apply). All guardians are allotted an additional 30 minute grace period to be used in case of occasional circumstances in which they may be running late to pick up their child; this is subject to change if we feel as though the grace period is frequently being taken advantage of. A $20 inconvenience fee will be charged and expected upon your arrival for any chronic dismissals occurring later than 30 minutes after your scheduled pick up time. We ask that you communicate if/when you're going to be late as soon as you can so that we may plan accordingly. Please be mindful that our family has personal obligations and schedules to keep outside of business hours.
TUITION
Your tuition is what holds your child's place within the program, therefore you will be charged the same recurring amount each week; regardless of if your child is absent, arrives late, or leaves early (we do offer excused absences, please refer to absence policy). Your tuition, however, will increase on weeks in which your hours or amount of children increase. Our current daily rates are $25 for part-time preschool & childcare (5 hours or less), $40 for full-time preschool & childcare (5.5 hours or more), and $18 for preschool only (9:00am-11:45am), minimum of 2 days required). We offer a 25% Sibling Discount for our childcare programs, however this discount can only be applied to siblings enrolled in the same amount of hours each day. Preschool Only Program is not eligible for the sibling discount. Tuition is due on the first day of attendance each week and can be made by cash or PayPal. We will also accept monthly payments by request. No checks will be accepted. Cash
payments can be discreetly placed in the designated location within the folder
that will be given to you upon enrollment. If payment is not made on the first day of attendance, you will be expected to pay on the following day. If payment has not been received by the end of the week, your child will be unable to attend the proceeding week until payment for both weeks has been made in full. Payment for daily drop-ins will be due at the time of arrival. You will be given a physical copy of receipt after each payment has been received. We understand that financial hardships can occur at any time and are willing to accommodate each family's circumstances on a case by case basis. We accept private pay only and cannot accept Title 20 at this time, however we
are registered and tax deductible. All
enrolled families will receive a W-10 form at the beginning of the year to be
reported for tax purposes. Please remember that your child's tuition is a direct investment into our program and helps provide updated toys, materials, and resources for all children enrolled.
ENROLLMENT
Eight children may be enrolled at any given time depending on combined ages and needs within the group. As a courtesy and benefit to enrolled families, we do keep four additional spaces available each day for occasional circumstances in which they need to add a drop-in day to their weekly schedule. The program is intended for ages 2-5 years. Any child turning 5 years old on or before August 1st will be ineligible to enroll. Currently enrolled children who turn 5 on or before August 1st will no longer be eligible to attend after Summer Break unless they would developmentally benefit from an additional year of pre-kindergarten and they would continue to thrive in a mixed-age environment; other exceptions may be made and before/after school care for kindergarten may be provided for children who have been attending the program for two consecutive years or longer. For families waiting longer than two weeks to begin attendance, a non-refundable deposit of $25 per child will be due within 7 days after your scheduled tour to finalize enrollment and officially reserve your spot(s); placement is not guaranteed until both the enrollment form(s) and deposit have been received by us. A deposit will not be required for families beginning immediate enrollment (one week or less). You will be committing to the enrollment of a permanent schedule to hold your child's place within the program; you cannot change your schedule each week. Should needs or circumstances change during the course of enrollment, a new schedule to accommodate these changes will need to be requested as soon as possible. Families that do not need childcare in the summer months but that would like to remain enrolled for the fall will not be expected to pay during the summer, but will be required to pay two weeks of fall tuition in advance to hold their place within the program. This will be forfeited should they decide not to return when summer ends.
CURRICULUM
The duration of our curriculum follows a traditional school year schedule; beginning in August and concluding in May. Our Preschool only programs do not operate in the summer. Our Summer Vacation Series for our childcare programs takes place from the beginning of June to the end of July; this is a cultural enrichment curriculum that emphasizes the animals, foods, music, and customs of a new continent each week.
ATTENDANCE
The times in which arrivals and dismissals occur will be accurately documented on an attendance sheet each day. A consistent weekly schedule is required for the benefits of both your child and the others enrolled. Inconsistent schedules that hinder the child’s ability to acclimate to the daily routine and form positive relationships with their peers may result in the termination of care.
ARRIVAL
Please inform us of anticipated late arrivals as soon as possible so that we may plan accordingly. Please inform of us anticipated early arrivals no later than 8:00pm the night before. No arrivals for the morning session should occur later than 9:30am. Exceptions will be made for children that have a scheduled appointment during this time and we have been notified in advance. You will still be charged for your committed full day. No arrivals for the afternoon session should occur after 12:30pm, no exceptions. Children will be asked to remove their shoes and hang their belongings on their assigned hook upon arrival. When dropping off your child, please refrain from either lingering in the home or sneaking away. It is important to establish a consistent habit of confidently telling your child goodbye, reassuring them that you will return, and then leaving quickly so that they can be redirected to the daily routine and activities. You will be contacted should your child remain inconsolable throughout the day. It is recommended that you do your best to either have your child use the bathroom or be recently changed with a fresh diaper prior to arrival. Children should be dressed in appropriate clothing and ready for the day upon arrival.
DISMISSAL
Latest
dismissals for the morning session should occur no later than 12:30pm as not to
interfere with naptime. Earliest
dismissals in the afternoon may occur after naptime at 3:30 pm. No child will be released at dismissal to an adult other than those authorized during enrollment, unless notified in advance by a provided written statement. You are entitled to add or remove adults to/from the authorized list throughout the year as often as needed. IDs of unknown individuals (individuals who have not been formally introduced prior to dismissal) will be checked at the time of departure to ensure all children are safe and leaving with the rightful parties. Children will be encouraged to participate in cleaning up their toys before leaving. It would be greatly appreciated if this was also enforced by the parent/guardian. No child, regardless of age or ability, is ever entitled to run around the home at any time, including during dismissal. It will be expected that the parent/guardian enforces this at all times and participates in explaining and expecting appropriate behavior. If your child has difficulty complying with this boundary, they should remain in the enclosed playroom and wait to be released until you are ready to immediately exit the home. This rule is implemented to not only help reduce chaos within the home, but to also give children the opportunity to practice meeting social expectations with consideration and respect.
ABSENCES
Please inform us of any absences as soon as possible so that we can plan accordingly. We allot each family 10 excused absences per year (per family, not per child) in which they will not be charged daily tuition. These may be applied in any form in which they prefer (ex: 5 sick days, 5 vacation days). Please notify us no later than two weeks in advance when applying excusals to a pending vacation. Once all 10 excused absences have been used, the parent/guardian will then be charged for any subsequent days in which their child does not attend. Excused absences must be documented on a signed Absence Request Form in order to formally be applied. For families with multiple children, reduced tuition will be applied for the child(ren) whom were absent only. Excused absences will renew on the first day of August each year. Excused absences may not be applied to any paid holidays in which we are already closed. Any unused excusals will be forfeited and will not carry over to the next year. Because tuition is to be paid one week in advance, your excused absence(s) will be applied to the following weeks’ tuition. Consistency is important for young children and regular attendance should be prioritized by the parent/guardian. Excessive absences that hinder the child’s ability to acclimate to the daily routine and form positive relationships with their peers may result in the termination of care. Extended absences will be considered on a case by case bases.
CLOSINGS (HOLIDAYS & SEASONAL BREAKS)
White Picket Playhouse will be closed in observance of the following paid holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Independence Day; you will still be expected to pay tuition for these days, despite being closed (excused absences may not be applied). We will be closed in observance of the following unpaid holidays: Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Friday, Christmas Eve, and New Year's Eve; you will not be charged tuition for these days. We
are entitled to close for three extended seasonal
breaks (spring, summer, & winter), each approximately one week in length, in which you
will not be charged tuition. A yearly schedule will be provided to you upon enrollment so you can seek alternative care in advance. All breaks are carefully considered and should be highly conducive to the public school schedule. Our preschool only program operates as a traditional school year; beginning in August and concluding in May. Preschool only programs do not operate in the summer.
CALAMITY DAYS
Though avoided at all costs, closing may occur only if absolutely necessary. You will be notified as soon in advance as possible and will not be expected to pay tuition for any day in which we have to close. All prepaid payments will be refunded. On the rare occasion that we ever have personal obligations, appointments, or illnesses occurring during business hours, you will be notified as soon in advance as possible. All appointments will be scheduled during rest time and children will be supervised by a trusted, substitute provider within the home. Our childcare programs will not typically close for inclement weather; please use your own best discretion if/when choosing to attend during a weather event. The preschool only program will follow Centerville City School's protocol and will close when they do, however, we will not implement delays and the program will run at it's normal time regardless of when a delay is issued for Centerville Schools.
WITHDRAWAL
Parents/Guardians may withdrawal their children by informing us at least two week in advance. Excused absences may not be applied during your final two weeks of enrollment and will be forfeited.
CONTACT & COMMUNICATION
To preserve our privacy, the majority of communication will be done by text or email at the number/address provided upon enrollment. The phone number given to enrolled families is for contact between the hours of 6:00am-8:00pm every day, however, this should be reserved for brief communication, notifications (such as absences or late arrivals), or emergencies only. Texting is preferred as it is challenging to answer phone calls while giving undivided attention to the needs of small children. Messages received during this time will be responded to as soon as possible. Any extensive questions or concerns can be addressed by email or by scheduling a private conference after hours. It is always helpful for parents/guardians to inform us of any personal circumstances or sensitive issues that might influence the emotional needs of their child so we can better support them while in our care. Caregivers will be provided with updates and reminders as they arise. Enrolled families will be given a folder (one per family) to be used weekly for artwork, forms, reminders, cash payments, and other paper items. A monthly newsletter and classroom calendar highlighting our curriculum will be sent to all families at the beginning of each month. You will also be given a copy of our current daily routine upon enrollment.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Personal information regarding your child or family will not be shared or discussed to any other attending families. A parent/guardian who would like to exchange contact information with another parent/guardian must indicate their consent on the enrollment form prior to attendance.
PHOTOS & VIDEOS
Preserving the privacy of your children is a top priority. Candid photos and videos may be taken for promotional purposes, but any content exposing a child’s face will never be shared online or with anyone other than their respective parents/guardians. You will be given access to a shared Google album that will be updated with photos monthly. At the end of each summer, every family will receive a personalized White Picket Playhouse yearbook culminating their child(dren)'s time within the program.
HOLIDAYS & SPECIAL EVENTS
We recognize many seasonal holidays throughout the year. Celebrated holidays include Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, and Independence Day. We hold traditional classroom parties and special seasonal events each year. Parents/Guardians may be asked to participate by volunteering to provide certain supplies and materials for these special occasions. Though parental involvement is appreciated, it is never required. All children will also be celebrated on their birthday while in our care. You are invited to send in a special treat to share with classmates if you so choose.
PERSONAL BELONGINGS
All personal belongings should be labeled with your child’s first and last name and will be stored on their assigned hooks upon arrival. A small bag or backpack is recommended for the transportation of items to and from the program each day. Each child may bring one special comforting item, such as a blanket or stuffed animal, from home to be used as needed throughout the day. Please refrain from sending additional toys that cannot be shared with others. Absolutely no electronical devices from home, such as an iPad or tablet of any kind will be permitted.
CLOTHING
We ask that all children come dressed in weather appropriate clothing. Please consider dressing your child in comfortable clothes and shoes that can get dirty and be worn outside. You must provide one spare change of clothes to be left on the premises in case of any accidents or messes that may occur while in attendance. Children will learn how to put their own coats, shoes, and other articles of clothing on when in our care.
DIAPERING
Diapers will be checked at least every 3 hours and/or changed as needed. All diaper changes will be documented on a daily infant report that will be sent home at the end of each day. Diapers and wipes must be provided by guardians and left on the premises. You will be notified when needed to provide more. We require disposable diapers only please. We will not administer diaper cream of any kind unless provided to us and indicated in writing on the child’s medical form upon enrollment. Latex free gloves will be worn and changed between the changing of each child.
POTTY TRAINING
We are willing to help introduce the use of the bathroom to your child when they have displayed multiple signs indicating that they are both mentally and physically ready to, and they have successfully done so on their own while at home. We are prepared to encourage and positively reinforce the use of the bathroom, however, it will absolutely not be enforced if a child is stressed or uncomfortable by the process in any way while in our care. For sanitary reasons, pullups will be required if a child chronically soils their underwear while in attendance. They may wear underwear underneath their pullups for continued training.
TOILETING
Scheduled bathroom breaks and reminders will occur multiple times throughout the day. To help with the process, please dress children in comfortable clothing that requires very little assistance for them to remove by themselves. Accidents are to be expected until friends become more comfortable in the environment. Sometimes the stress of a situational change may cause a friend to experience a brief regression, even at home. This is completely normal and children should regain their confidence and ability to use the bathroom on their own once they become more comfortable in their new routine. Should an accident occur while in our care, the soiled clothing will be contained in a plastic bag and be sent home for washing.
MEALS & SNACKS
Parents/Guardians are expected to provide a cup and/or bottle for their child each day, however, if your child does not have a preference, we can provide glass cups with straws. Breakfast, lunch, snacks (PM), and fresh water will be provided by us. We serve traditional meals and offer a healthy variety of dairy, meats & proteins, grains, and fruits and vegetables. A menu will be shared at the beginning of each month so you can remain informed of what food is being offered each day. Children are encouraged to eat what they are served and will not be offered any alternatives. They are never forced to
complete a meal. We practice intuitive
eating and generally allow children to follow their own cues. Food will always be cut into small, age appropriate pieces for children 2.5 years old and younger (when necessary). Children should know, or should at least be familiar, with how to properly feed themselves and should refrain from dumping or throwing food on the ground during mealtimes and/or be receptive to discipline when necessary. We provide bibs and child-sized utensils. Packed meals and snacks from home are permitted when due to specific food allergies, dietary restrictions, or personal preferences. Any food from home will be served during our scheduled mealtimes; eating outside of these times will not be permitted unless medically necessary and indicated on the medical form prior to enrollment. Allergies and dietary restrictions of any kind cannot be accommodated in our meal plan at this time, so please expect to provide your own. We
are trained in the administration of EpiPens and are comfortable accepting
children with various forms of allergies, however, please keep in mind, that though
exposure is avoided at all costs, we are not a nut-free household.
OUTDOOR PLAY
Children will have the opportunity to go outside for at least one hour a day as weather permits. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services currently states that temperatures between 25-90 degrees Fahrenheit are suitable for outdoor play. We will use our best discretion when taking children outside, but we do generally go out at least once a day, rain or shine, if even for just a few minutes. It's imperative that children are dressed appropriately for the weather. We have a limited amount of extra outdoor clothing to be used on occasions when such items may have been forgotten at home. We utilize the backyard and driveway (with barrier) for supervised outdoor play. Children will have access to a large playset with swings, slides, and a playhouse, an enclosed trampoline, sandbox, and an assortment of other gross motor toys such as balance beams, balls, ribbon wands, ride-on equipment, etc. We also may go on daily walks throughout our neighborhood (depending on class size and behavioral needs of each child). Water play will occur often during the warmer months. You will be advised of this beforehand. We ask that you provide proper seasonal attire such as swimwear, swim diapers (if needed), water shoes, and sunscreen in the summer and snowpants, boots, mittens/gloves, hats, and scarves in the winter. Children will not be required to wear shoes outside in the warmer months unless parent/guardian states otherwise. Rainboots are highly encouraged for all seasons throughout the year.
QUIET TIME
Children will be required to participate in an uninterrupted time of rest each day, no exceptions. They must sleep or rest quietly in/on their assigned cots/cribs for the full duration of time. It is imperative that children can sleep/rest independently or learn how to do so while in our care within the first two weeks of enrollment. Bedding will be provided and washed weekly. Curtains will be drawn and soothing lullabies will be played. Children may bring something comforting from home to snuggle with during this time. No visitors or guests will be permitted during these designated hours. Dismissals during this time are highly discouraged and should occur only if absolutely necessary and we are notified in advance. Chronic displays of refusal to rest and/or disruptive behaviors that wake and/or upset other children during quiet time may result in termination of care. Please refrain from enrolling if you as the parent/guardian, for whatever reason, do not agree with your child's participation in rest time (in which they may fall asleep). Rest is crucial for the development of young children, especially after a busy day of learning and we will not accommodate any requests asking that we prevent your child from falling asleep.
SCREEN TIME
Children will participate in structured activities and organized play most of the time, however, an occasional, limited amount of screen time may be utilized for educational or entertainment purposes during the day (ex: music & movement or inclement weather that prohibits us from going outside). All content shown is wholesome, age appropriate, and aligned with our family values. No music or videos shown to children will contain foul language, violence, or inappropriate content of any form. Generally, screen time may be permitted during the first 30 minutes of the day. The use of tablets and devices are strictly prohibited at all times.
CLEANLINESS & SANITIZATION
All adults and children are encouraged to practice proper hygiene while in our home. Children will be encouraged to wash their hands as needed. All surfaces/table tops will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each use every day. Floors will be swept and mopped at least once daily or as much as needed after especially messy activities. All toys and materials will be cleaned and disinfected on a weekly or as needed basis. All trash will be disposed of in the designated bin and taken out as often as needed.
SAFETY & SECURITY
All main points of entry shall remained locked throughout the day and will not be opened unless a visitor is expected and/or personally recognized. Parents/Guardians will be informed of any expected visitors or guests no later than 24 hours in advance. No child will ever be left unattended while in our care. All unused and exposed outlets and receptacles within reach of children will remain covered at all times. Closet doors will remain locked when not in use.
ILLNESS
We understand that runny noses and/or coughs are to be expected in young children (especially in the first few weeks of interacting in an environment with other children) as they explore much of the world with their hands and mouths. Our home is thoroughly sanitized every day to ensure children stay as healthy as possible. With that said, however, if a child displays symptoms of apparent illness (fever of 100 or higher or vomiting) and/or is inconsolable while in our care, he/she will be separated from the other children and made as comfortable as possible. The primary guardian will be contacted and it will be requested that they make arrangements for the child to be picked up early. The child may resume attendance once symptom free for 24 hours without fever reducers and symptom suppressants. Highly contagious illnesses, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), strep throat, and ear infections, will require the child to stay at home until antibiotics have been administered for at least a full 24 hours. To reduce the spread of illness, it is highly recommended that families of multiple enrolled children withhold all children from attendance even if only one child appears ill. We ask that you please be considerate of other families and use your best judgement when sending your child to our home. You
will need to inform us as soon as possible should your child develop any signs
of illness. We are obligated to inform enrolled families when their child has potentially been exposed to a highly contagious illness/infection; however, no confidential information regarding you or your child will ever be shared.
MEDICATIONS
No medication will be administered at any time unless otherwise stated on child’s medical information form (which should be submitted no later than the first day of enrollment). Exceptions may be made if your child develops an illness or condition in which they need antibiotics during enrolled hours and will need to be documented on a signed temporary medical consent form. If your child was given medication before arriving to our home, we ask that you please let us know what was taken and when.
INCIDENTS
Symptoms of illness, impairment, and injury of any kind will be documented in an official incident report. Though we do our absolute best to prevent accidents from happening, it’s important to understand that physical altercations and occasional (minor) injuries are a normal part of early development. On the rare occasion that a physical injury and/or altercation amongst classmates occurs, it will be resolved with the utmost care. We are obligated to communicate any occurrences to the caregiver on the day that they happen. We are equipped with a fully stocked first aid kit at all times.
EMERGENCIES
In the event of an emergency, you will be contacted immediately by phone. We have many preventative systems in place to ensure children remain safe in our home, but we also have plans in place should their safety ever be compromised; this could be due to natural disasters (tornadoes, severe storms, etc.), fires, unidentified trespassers, or accidental severe injury. Crisis procedures will be practiced with the children on a seasonal basis. A fire extinguisher and multiple smoke detectors are installed within the home.
BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT
We implement Conscious Discipline as our primary source of behavior management. Children will be praised and celebrated often through positive reinforcement. Many preventative systems are put into place to avoid behavioral conflicts, but if and when they do, children will always be approached with the support and consideration of their specific, individual needs. Children are given the opportunity to experience the natural consequences of their actions and though grace will always be given, children will still be held accountable for certain responsibilities and expectations (regardless of age or ability), such as putting their toys away. We provide freedom within boundaries and are gentle but firm (not passive or permissive) when intervention is needed. It’s normal and developmentally appropriate for a child to become highly sensitive to their surroundings at any given time. It is important to acknowledge that they are still learning how to appropriately express their needs and interact with their peers. If/When conflict arises, we will embrace the opportunity to assist their skills and encourage them to practice understanding and solving their own problems. We will guide and support them in validating their feelings, identifying their needs, providing alternative solutions, and gently redirecting to more productive choices. If necessary, sources of conflict may be permanently eliminated as to prevent them from causing challenges again. Intentionally defiant behaviors will not warrant any attention, but instead, will be modeled and redirected to actions that are more appropriate. In instances of behaviors that are disruptive or harmful to others, the child will be separated from the task at hand and given the opportunity to regulate away from the other children. This time will last no longer than one minute per year of age (or until they indicate that they are ready to resume participating with the group on their own). No one, including the parent/guardian, will ever be permitted to corporally punish a child while in our care. Complex needs will be met with collaboration of the family and any outside services the child may be receiving.
BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS
We are confident in our approach to the complexity of various forms of developmental and behavioral needs, and strive to provide an inclusive environment for all of our friends, however, due to the nature of being a sole provider within a family home, we are limited in certain supports. Because of this, we do require certain behavioral expectations upon enrollment. All children will be held to these standards in ways that are appropriate to their development, regardless of age or ability. This ensures that the needs of every child within our mixed-age class can be met safely and adequately. We are dedicated to guiding each child in achieving these goals through patience, repetition, and consistency, however, we believe that also practicing these skills at home is incredibly helpful and beneficial for the child to thrive in a classroom environment. Each child should respond to their name when called. They should be able to understand basic commands, follow one-step directions, and complete simple tasks when asked to do so. Children are expected to be familiar with the concept of picking up toys and should contribute in cleaning up after themselves when finished with an activity. Children will be expected to use furniture and items within the home appropriately and should be familiar with the correct way to use books and toys - no intentional destruction of any kind will be tolerated. Though teacher guided activities and one-on-one instruction occur most of the day, all children should feel comfortable participating in independent play as well. Children should no longer chronically put small objects in their mouths and/or can be easily redirected when necessary; items for oral sensory seekers, such as chewie necklaces, are permitted. All children should be capable of interacting with peers of all different ages both safely and appropriately; we cannot accommodate children who are easily stressed and/or triggered by peers who are younger and/or older than them. Children should have a general familiarity and respect for rules and authority, and should be receptive to redirection and discipline when necessary; defiantly disregarding the guidance and instruction of an educator will not be tolerated and no exceptions will be made. Chronic patterns of aggression, intentional defiance, and/or elopement (running/wandering away), will result in termination of care.
OUR HOME & USE OF THE PROPERTY
It is important to be mindful that this is our family home. Though we want you to feel welcomed and at home here, we also ask that all visitors respect the boundaries that have been put into place to ensure our environment is safe, clean, and comfortable for all of our students and guests. We have two family dogs within the home. They are friendly, well trained, and kept in a separate location at all times (though you may hear barking in the distance, as they like to greet visitors when they arrive). The home may undergo occasional maintenance and/or repairs both on the exterior and interior at any given time throughout the year. You will be notified as far in advance as possible should this occur. You are welcome to park in the driveway, we just ask that you be considerate of other vehicles and do your best to avoid blocking someone from exiting. Please use the paved path when entering the home; refrain from stepping in the flower beds. No shoes are permitted within the playroom; visitors will be asked to remove them before entering the designated classroom space. Our program primarily resides on the first floor of our home. Children will be confined to the designated classroom spaces for the majority of the day (accept for toileting and outdoor play). No child or adult is permitted access to other parts of the home unless otherwise invited - this is to maintain a sense of privacy for our family and a sense of autonomy for our own children. To avoid damage or injury, there shall be absolutely no running in the house, jumping/climbing on the furniture, hanging on banisters/climbing on the side of the steps, or intentional destruction of toys, books, and/or property; all things within the home should be put to their intended use only, and anything other than that will not be tolerated. There shall be no smoking or consumption of drugs and/or alcohol on the premises. Firearms and weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited. All adults residing within the home have completed a background check and are trained in CPR and First Aide.
CONDUCT
It is imperative that both child and their parent/guardian show discipline and regard when at our home. We hold everyone to the same high standard. As an adult, you will be expected to strictly enforce the rules so that your child clearly understands the boundaries and what is expected of them. No exceptions will be made, regardless of age or ability. All children and adults are expected to be respectful of everyone and everything within the property. Children will be encouraged to communicate with manners and kindness, and it is to be assumed that all adults will do the same. We strive to facilitate friendly and civil interactions between children and adults alike; no bullying or threats of any kind will be tolerated and will result in termination of care. As a parent/guardian, you are expected to speak positively about our program to your child. We work very hard to ensure a safe, enjoyable program for all who attend. It is crucial that this is also expressed by the parent/guardian for continued encouragement and reassurance of the child. We will not tolerate chronic complaints of our policies/routines from the child and/or their parents. Please consider all of our guidelines before enrolling. Use of foul, vulgar, and/or sexual language/behavior from either adults or children will absolutely not be tolerated and will result in termination of care.
TERMINATION
We reserve the right to terminate enrollment should any adults or children exhibit behaviors on our property that directly defy and/or misalign with the disclosed policy agreement. Termination can take effect immediately or within a two week period, depending on each individual circumstance. All termination will be documented in written form.