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Policies
Our policies are designed to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for all children in our care. We encourage all families to review these guidelines to understand our approach to childcare, health and safety, communication, and daily routines. By familiarizing yourself with our policies, you help us build a strong, supportive community where every child can thrive.
POLICIES AND GUIDELINES
Non-Discrimination and Accessibility
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, national origin, color, religion, sex, or disability. We strive to accommodate the needs of all children, including those with disabilities.
Open Door Policy
Enrolled parents are welcome to visit and inspect our facility at any time during regular business hours. Please limit visits to around 10 minutes to minimize disruptions.
Volunteers
Volunteers are welcome, especially during special events or parties, with prior arrangements.
Parent Communication
We value communication with parents about their child's growth and development. Pick-up and drop-off times can be busy, so we are available to discuss concerns by phone from 7-9 PM or by appointment during non-business hours.
Child Development Tools
We use BrightWheel for child development observation and documentation, meeting Washington Department of Education requirements. This tool goes beyond simple updates; it involves parents in their child's learning through eBooks, songs, interactive content, and parenting tips. Parents receive a code to access photos, videos, and notes on their child's progress. Conferences are held at the end of each trimester to review progress and set new goals.
We also use the ASQ and ASQ-SE Questionnaires® for developmental screening. These tools help identify any developmental concerns or milestones. They are completed by parents at enrollment and annually.
Personal Belongings
Children may bring personal "security items" but are discouraged from bringing toys from home, except for items to share during circle time. No gum, candy, food, drinks, money, small objects, or toy weapons are allowed. Treats for special occasions must be arranged in advance.
Clothing Requirements
Please provide at least one set of seasonally appropriate clothing in your child's backpack. Children need slip-on shoes that protect their feet while allowing comfortable movement. Lace-up shoes are suitable when children are learning to tie them. Flip-flops and party shoes are not allowed due to safety concerns. We have some extra outdoor clothing available, but we recommend bringing your child's own items.
Food and Meals
Breakfast is served between 7:30-8:00 AM. Please feed your child before arrival if arriving after this time. Morning snack is at 10:00 AM and lunch at noon. Afternoon snacks are at 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM.
Health and Safety
For the safety of all, we cannot accept children who have diarrhea, vomiting, severe rash, a fever over 100°F, or a contagious disease. If symptoms develop during care, parents will be called to pick up the child within an hour. Return to care is at the provider's discretion.
Medications are administered only with written authorization and must be in the original container.
Discipline Policy
We follow state licensing guidelines that prohibit corporal punishment, humiliation, intimidation, ridicule, or any punitive measures that interfere with a child’s basic needs. All caregivers and parents must adhere to these guidelines while on our premises.
Attendance and Punctuality
Attendance and punctuality are crucial. Please call within 30 minutes if you will be late or absent. Notify us immediately if you will not be picking up your child on time. Alternative pick-up arrangements may be necessary.
Mandated Reporting
We are required by law to report any suspicion of child abuse or neglect. Unreported abuse may result in fines or jail time. Please inform us of any injuries your child sustains outside of care so we can document them properly.
Emergency Procedures
In a medical emergency, we will call an ambulance and contact parents immediately to meet us at the hospital.
Alternate and Substitute Care
If we cannot provide care due to illness, emergencies, or other reasons, parents are responsible for finding alternate care. We will provide notice as early as possible. We are closed on federal holidays, Christmas through New Year's Day, and Easter week. Annual calendars are provided in January. Occasionally, substitutes may be needed for appointments or errands. All substitutes meet state regulations and are screened to work with children.
Release of Children
Children will not be released to anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or to anyone not listed on the enrollment form without a photo ID and written permission.
Annual Updates
All contracts, policies, and forms must be updated annually. Parents must notify us of any changes in custody, addresses, or employment within two weeks.
Transportation Safety
Children must be secured in appropriate restraints in vehicles. Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle. Please bring siblings inside during pick-up. Do not leave cars running in the driveway.
Pets
We have two dogs and a cat, all vaccinated and friendly with children.
Religious Practices
While we do not teach religious doctrine, our program may include references to God, and our library has books and music with Bible-based themes.
Download These Policies
Download our policies to ensure you're fully informed and prepared for your child's experience with us.