Also check out the creativity page to the right to view projects we have done.
We have a clean, family-fun atmosphere. Our program includes activities such as arts and crafts, music and sensory play, as well as exploring and using our imagination. We also offer an outdoor area for large muscle development. We follow a balanced schedule and offer planned group activities which reinforce your child's social interaction. Lil Acorn Academy strives to provide a fun learning environment for your child and the other children under our care. We believe a child’s early experiences enrich and stimulate future growth. Children deserve to be treated and respected as individuals. I respect each child’s need for love, security, acceptance, warmth, and stimulation. My hours are Monday through Friday, 6:30am to 5:30pm. (I can be somewhat flexible.) I am capable of caring for five children right now and have been safely caring for children for over 15 years. I have decided to turn my passion into a career and anticipate to grow in the near future. I am certified in first aid and adult/child/infant CPR, have a current food handlers permit and have had a recent background check.
Contact:
Josie Sumerlin
Josiemaine@yahoo.com
541.808.8377
Find us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Lil-Acorn-Academy/213331028717991
My home is located in close proximity to Millicoma Middle School and TNT market in Eastside, Coos Bay, OR.
The school bus stops on my street. Also the CCAT (public transit) bus has a stop at TNT market, which is located next to my home. Fares: $1.25 per one-way trip. Discounts: child. Phone: 541-267-7111 http://www.coostransit.org/
Benefits:-Hands-On Learning activities such as growing plants from seeds.
-Arts and Crafts
-Singing and Dancing
-Field Trips
-Potty Training
-Nature Walks
-Smoke/Drug Free Environment
-Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks
-Monthly Friday Evening Parents Night Out, for those needing a little grown up time. Ask me for details.
Policies:
You are encouraged to call me any time between the hours of 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. If you call during the day, please be aware that I may be busy with the children and may not be able to answer the
phone. If you leave a message on my voice mail, I will call you back as soon as possible. The best time to call during the day is during our daily quiet time.
I am looking forward to a terrific relationship with you and your child!
Respect
Please come into my home knowing that this is not only a place for children but also my home. Close the door/gate behind you. If you want to come into the play area, please refrain from cursing. Please have the courtesy to end your cell phone conversations at my door. We all lead hectic lives, but if there is something that needs to be addressed regarding your child I would hate to interrupt you to do so.
Dress Code
I have a sprinkler, slip'n slide and a blow up pool for summer water play. I require a permission slip be signed before the child is allowed to play in the water. All daycare parents must consent to their child participating in water play or else no children will participate. I do not wish to alienate
any child from an activity. It’s all for 1 and 1 for all! A swimsuit will be requested, and can be either left at Lil Acorn Academy or taken home daily/weekly. I will request each parent supply sunscreen for their child to be kept for summer usage.
PLEASE DO NOT SEND TOYS FROM HOME. If your child needs a special toy or item for sleeping, it will be allowed, but it will remain in their crib or put away until designated nap time.
Confidentiality
The information you supply to Lil Acorn Academy will be kept confidential. I will, at all times, respect your privacy.
Changes to Policy and Procedures
Changes may be made to policies as needed with an updated notice to parents. The policies, contracts, consents and forms will be reviewed and updated, if needed, at the beginning of every year. Please also give written notice of any changes that may occur within your family, especially address, emergency contact or updated immunizations.
Emergencies
Though we don’t anticipate any of these situations, we must be prepared for them.
Fire: I have a fire extinguisher located in my kitchen under the sink. If there is a fire the children will be evacuated immediately before calling 911. We will practice fire drills monthly so the children will be prepared
in the event of a fire. The fire evacuation plan is located on file and posted. You are free to view it at any time.
Earthquake: In the event of an earthquake, the children will rally together if we are outside away from any objects that may fall or in the living room if we are inside. Earthquake drills will also be practiced monthly. The earthquake plan is located on file and posted. You are free to view it at anytime.
Power outage: There are flashlights located in three drawers of the kitchen and also in the living room. If the power remains out for some time, there are non-perishables located in the kitchen that
will be used to eat. If the weather is such that the children are getting too cold inside without power, you will be called to pick up your child.
Maternity/Extended Leave/Lay Offs
In cases of your potential absence due to maternity or extended leave from your job, I require your childcare rate payments for the entire time of your absence to hold your child's position. Rates will be reduced to 50% of your regular rate for up to 6 weeks. Any further time required will be 75% of your regular rate to hold your child’s position.
Open Door Policy
I maintain an open door policy for parents. This means that you are always welcome to call or drop in to see your children at any time during regular childcare hours. You are required to let me know of your presence before entering the premises. Knock, and then enter. I believe that it is extremely important to keep the doors locked for the safety of the children. I do not want unwanted or unexpected visitors to enter without my permission or knowledge. I also do not want little ones leaving the house unsupervised. Your child's safety is my first priority. Please take into consideration my schedule when dropping in or calling, and remember that visitors usually cause children to react in an excited manner that does not normally occur when I am alone with the children. Thank you for your understanding.
Arrivals & departures
Children are to arrive clean and fed (unless arriving just before a mealtime). It is normal for some children to have difficulty separating from parents, or cry when being dropped off. Please be very brief (no more than 5 minutes is sufficient) during drop-off times; the longer you prolong the departure the harder it gets. A smile, cheerful goodbye kiss, and a reassuring word that you will be back are all that is needed. In my experience, children are nearly always quick to get
involved in play or activities as soon as parents are gone. Please be very brief at pick-up times also. This is a time of testing when two different authority figures are present (the parent and the
provider), and all the children will test to see if the rules still apply. An early arrival to pick up your child does not mean you may stay until the close of business. If you'd like to stay and visit please arrange this with me beforehand. But typically pick-up time needs to be kept brief.
When picking children up at the end of the day, you are asked to always come to the front door. If you are arriving at your designated pick up time I will try my best to have your child ready to go with shoes on and jacket ready. Should you be early or late for pick up I cannot promise your child will be ready. If possible, please provide a courtesy call or verbal notation when you drop off that you will be early or late. That way, I can be sure to have your child prepared. Please knock or ring the bell - I often lock the door for the children's safety. Please do not go into the backyard or the back porch unless I am out there with all of the children. This can startle the children and myself. During arrivals and departures, I expect you to back up my rules (see House Rules), but if you do not, I will remind your child that their behavior is inappropriate and take action to correct, if needed. Please
be in control of your child during these times. I prefer that there are no pick-ups or drop offs during the designated daily quiet time, but if it is necessary, please be as quiet and brief as possible. Children who arrive during quiet time will be expected to remain quiet (they may play/read quietly) until quiet time is over, so that others will not be disrupted from their naps. Do not allow your child to run out to your car while you are still inside or while you are in the backyard! The safety rule is "No one goes outside without their parent or me with them." Drop-off and pick-up times are not always the best times to discuss problems. Little ears and minds hear and understand more than you may think. I am not comfortable discussing children in the presence of anyone other than their parents. Topics that concern day-to-day events or light-hearted discussion are just fine. Please do not be discouraged from addressing problems with me, but instead work with me to find the appropriate time to discuss.
7:30 AM-5:30 PM
Please remember that this is still a business and we have daily hours as a business does. I have a family of my own and we will have things to do after business hours. If you suspect that you may be late in picking up your child, please arrange for a back up person to come in your place, you need to call and let me know who will be picking up you child. Please don't assume that I will be available to stay with your child after hours. In the event that you use a backup person to come for your child, please call me in advance and instruct this person to show me their photo identification upon arrival. As a reminder, your child care hours are outlined in your contract, if you are scheduled to
arrive at 4:30, please stick to this schedule as closely as possible. If you cannot you MUST call to see if I am available to keep your child the additional time. Parents are allowed two free late pick-ups a month with phone call only. This is FOR EMERGENCY SITUATIONS ONLY (working late/traffic,
etc…) please do not look at this as “free time” to grocery shop or make appointments.
In the event that you are late without notice and no back up person has been provided:
OVERTIME HOURS: $ 1.00 PER MINUTE YOU ARE LATE paid on the day the late arrival occurred.
I will be taking up to 3 weeks of unpaid vacation per year; one of those weeks will be from Christmas Eve until New Year’s Day, resuming day care services on January 2. Parents will be notified at
least a month in advance of the remaining vacation days. You may consider vacations during this time off as well.
Examples of why I would terminate your child's care with or without notice include, but may not be limited to:
• Unexpected long term illness with myself or my immediate family.
• Failure to complete required forms.
• Failure to keep records up to date (shot, address, phone numbers).
• Lack of parental cooperation with issues of discipline.
• Habitual late pick up.
• Failure of child to adjust to the center after a reasonable amount of time.
• Lack of payment.
• Lack of respect for the provider or other children, by the parent or child.
• The needs of child being or becoming that which I am not prepared or able to comply with.
• Violence upon any person or child.
REFERRAL PROGRAM
RELEASING YOUR CHILDMy normal procedure is to release the child only to his or her parents
or someone else the parents designate. If someone other than the
parent is to pick the child up, please notify me ahead of time. A verbal
notice is fine on that day if this person is on the list of those
authorized to pick up your child. If the person is not on that list, I
must have written permission to release your child.
One of the forms you are required to complete designates who may
pick the child up if there is an emergency and you cannot contact me.
Please make sure those listed are persons with whom you would allow
your child to leave if that person showed up at my door and said, "I
need to take Johnny with me." Those on the list should also be people
I could call in the event something happened and you did not show up
to pick up your child. Also please work with your child (if age
appropriate) and/or your emergency contacts to designate a “kid code”
a secret word between parent & child for identification and pick up.
This is handy not only for day care but for many other possible
situations.
Please inform your emergency contacts that I will ask for photo
identification. I do not mean to offend them. This is simply a measure
taken for the child's protection.
Contact:
Josie Sumerlin
Josiemaine@yahoo.com
541.808.8377
Find us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Lil-Acorn-Academy/213331028717991
My home is located in close proximity to Millicoma Middle School and TNT market in Eastside, Coos Bay, OR.
The school bus stops on my street. Also the CCAT (public transit) bus has a stop at TNT market, which is located next to my home. Fares: $1.25 per one-way trip. Discounts: child. Phone: 541-267-7111 http://www.coostransit.org/
Benefits:-Hands-On Learning activities such as growing plants from seeds.
-Arts and Crafts
-Singing and Dancing
-Field Trips
-Potty Training
-Nature Walks
-Smoke/Drug Free Environment
-Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks
-Monthly Friday Evening Parents Night Out, for those needing a little grown up time. Ask me for details.
Policies:
Communication
Communication is very important to me. When I accept a new family into my business, I like to be sure that we can openly share any concerns or questions. It is important that there is a similar childcare philosophy between us. I welcome questions, feedback, or discussions of any kind that are oriented toward a positive outcome for the children. Sensitive issues can be discussed in private outside of regular childcare hours, either by telephone or in person.You are encouraged to call me any time between the hours of 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. If you call during the day, please be aware that I may be busy with the children and may not be able to answer the
phone. If you leave a message on my voice mail, I will call you back as soon as possible. The best time to call during the day is during our daily quiet time.
I am looking forward to a terrific relationship with you and your child!
Respect
Philosophy
I believe a child’s early experiences enrich and stimulate future growth. Children deserve to be treated and respected as individuals in an environment that welcomes reason, exploration, questions and imagination. I respect each child’s need for love, security, acceptance, warmth, and stimulation. Our motto at Lil Acorn Academy is all great Oaks started as Lil Acorns!
Goal
Your child will have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities, which promote many aspects of development. Family childcare provides the comfort and experience of belonging to an extended family for children. My goal is to nurture your child and help them grow as human beings. Please discuss with me any developmental or discipline concerns you may have in relation to your child. My goal is to provide structure and predictability in their day. Children thrive when they have routine and are stimulated by creativity. Children are offered choices whenever possible. Your child will bring home arts and crafts, as well as plants they may have started from seeds.
Television Time
I limit television time, but do however have occasional movies or program viewing. Winters can be long and a movie can help pass the time or entertain during down time. Only appropriate movies or TV programs will be shown such as Sesame Street, Veggie Tales, Dora, etc… If TV time is of a concern for you, please feel free to let me know.
Dress Code
Please dress your child appropriately. Children will be children and can get messy. Do not send your child in clothing that you do not want to get stained. Weather permitting, we will spend a lot of time outdoors. You also need to supply one complete change of clothing in case of an accident. Each child will be provided a cubby for their change of clothes.
Water Play
any child from an activity. It’s all for 1 and 1 for all! A swimsuit will be requested, and can be either left at Lil Acorn Academy or taken home daily/weekly. I will request each parent supply sunscreen for their child to be kept for summer usage.
Toys
House Cleaning
Please understand that my house may not always be spotless. My main concern is the care of the children but I do try my best to keep things tidy, sanitary and of course, safe. I clean and wash dishes and trays during nap time if all children are asleep. The children will help clean up toys before meals and naps. Large toys will be sanitized weekly and small toys at the end of the day. Sheets and bedding will be washed weekly, unless there is an accident.
Confidentiality
Changes to Policy and Procedures
Changes may be made to policies as needed with an updated notice to parents. The policies, contracts, consents and forms will be reviewed and updated, if needed, at the beginning of every year. Please also give written notice of any changes that may occur within your family, especially address, emergency contact or updated immunizations.
Emergencies
Fire: I have a fire extinguisher located in my kitchen under the sink. If there is a fire the children will be evacuated immediately before calling 911. We will practice fire drills monthly so the children will be prepared
in the event of a fire. The fire evacuation plan is located on file and posted. You are free to view it at any time.
Earthquake: In the event of an earthquake, the children will rally together if we are outside away from any objects that may fall or in the living room if we are inside. Earthquake drills will also be practiced monthly. The earthquake plan is located on file and posted. You are free to view it at anytime.
Power outage: There are flashlights located in three drawers of the kitchen and also in the living room. If the power remains out for some time, there are non-perishables located in the kitchen that
will be used to eat. If the weather is such that the children are getting too cold inside without power, you will be called to pick up your child.
Maternity/Extended Leave/Lay Offs
In cases of your potential absence due to maternity or extended leave from your job, I require your childcare rate payments for the entire time of your absence to hold your child's position. Rates will be reduced to 50% of your regular rate for up to 6 weeks. Any further time required will be 75% of your regular rate to hold your child’s position.
Open Door Policy
I maintain an open door policy for parents. This means that you are always welcome to call or drop in to see your children at any time during regular childcare hours. You are required to let me know of your presence before entering the premises. Knock, and then enter. I believe that it is extremely important to keep the doors locked for the safety of the children. I do not want unwanted or unexpected visitors to enter without my permission or knowledge. I also do not want little ones leaving the house unsupervised. Your child's safety is my first priority. Please take into consideration my schedule when dropping in or calling, and remember that visitors usually cause children to react in an excited manner that does not normally occur when I am alone with the children. Thank you for your understanding.
Arrivals & departures
involved in play or activities as soon as parents are gone. Please be very brief at pick-up times also. This is a time of testing when two different authority figures are present (the parent and the
provider), and all the children will test to see if the rules still apply. An early arrival to pick up your child does not mean you may stay until the close of business. If you'd like to stay and visit please arrange this with me beforehand. But typically pick-up time needs to be kept brief.
When picking children up at the end of the day, you are asked to always come to the front door. If you are arriving at your designated pick up time I will try my best to have your child ready to go with shoes on and jacket ready. Should you be early or late for pick up I cannot promise your child will be ready. If possible, please provide a courtesy call or verbal notation when you drop off that you will be early or late. That way, I can be sure to have your child prepared. Please knock or ring the bell - I often lock the door for the children's safety. Please do not go into the backyard or the back porch unless I am out there with all of the children. This can startle the children and myself. During arrivals and departures, I expect you to back up my rules (see House Rules), but if you do not, I will remind your child that their behavior is inappropriate and take action to correct, if needed. Please
be in control of your child during these times. I prefer that there are no pick-ups or drop offs during the designated daily quiet time, but if it is necessary, please be as quiet and brief as possible. Children who arrive during quiet time will be expected to remain quiet (they may play/read quietly) until quiet time is over, so that others will not be disrupted from their naps. Do not allow your child to run out to your car while you are still inside or while you are in the backyard! The safety rule is "No one goes outside without their parent or me with them." Drop-off and pick-up times are not always the best times to discuss problems. Little ears and minds hear and understand more than you may think. I am not comfortable discussing children in the presence of anyone other than their parents. Topics that concern day-to-day events or light-hearted discussion are just fine. Please do not be discouraged from addressing problems with me, but instead work with me to find the appropriate time to discuss.
Early afternoon pick-up/Late Morning Arrival
Your child’s late arrival or early pick up will not reduce your weekly rate. If you know prior that you will be “off schedule” please let me know as soon as possible.
Hours of operation
MONDAY - FRIDAY7:30 AM-5:30 PM
Please remember that this is still a business and we have daily hours as a business does. I have a family of my own and we will have things to do after business hours. If you suspect that you may be late in picking up your child, please arrange for a back up person to come in your place, you need to call and let me know who will be picking up you child. Please don't assume that I will be available to stay with your child after hours. In the event that you use a backup person to come for your child, please call me in advance and instruct this person to show me their photo identification upon arrival. As a reminder, your child care hours are outlined in your contract, if you are scheduled to
arrive at 4:30, please stick to this schedule as closely as possible. If you cannot you MUST call to see if I am available to keep your child the additional time. Parents are allowed two free late pick-ups a month with phone call only. This is FOR EMERGENCY SITUATIONS ONLY (working late/traffic,
etc…) please do not look at this as “free time” to grocery shop or make appointments.
In the event that you are late without notice and no back up person has been provided:
OVERTIME HOURS: $ 1.00 PER MINUTE YOU ARE LATE paid on the day the late arrival occurred.
Payment/NSF (Non-Sufficient Funds)
Payments for care are due at the beginning of each work week. You may pay the month in full ahead of time if you so choose. This eliminates the stress of owing at the end of each month. Instead you will already be paid up. It is like a pre-paid phone plan and you will be pre-paid for that month's care with no worries. If a check is returned to me for non-sufficient funds, you will be required to pay all fees that I incur as a result of the returned check. Childcare services will be immediately halted until full payment of tuition, in CASH. I understand that sometimes situations arise and this happens, but please be aware that after 2 NSF check situations, I will only accept cash payment from you from that point forward. I will also be able to accept Debit/CC thru Paypal and Google Check out. If you prefer this option I can email you your invoice and there will be a link to submitt payment.
Vacation time and days off
May-Memorial day-Closed
July-Independence day-Closed
September-Labor day-Closed
November-Veterans day Thanksgiving day-Closed
Lil Acorn Academy is closed from Christmas Eve until January 2 every year as a part of my vacation (sited below). No payment is required for this time off. Otherwise, tuition is weekly and any additional time you and your child(ren) may take outside of these days will need to be
paid in full regardless of attendance.
paid in full regardless of attendance.
I will be taking up to 3 weeks of unpaid vacation per year; one of those weeks will be from Christmas Eve until New Year’s Day, resuming day care services on January 2. Parents will be notified at
least a month in advance of the remaining vacation days. You may consider vacations during this time off as well.
Personal Days
A personal day might be taken for a class or important event that will be scheduled with a two-week notice. My personal days for training will be a reduced rate of $25.00 a day, due to the fact that I am taking this training to ensure your childcare is kept up to state standards. Personal/sick days are of no charge if I am closing for the day. If an extended illness or an unforeseen situation causes me to close other than the above mentioned, there will be no charges for those days.
TERMINATION OF CARE
If for some reason you decide to stop bringing your child to my childcare I require a two-week written notice. This will give me time to fill your child's spot. Payment is due for the two-week notice period whether or not the child is brought to daycare. Any outstanding fees must be paid on or before the child's last day. I will apply your security deposit to the last week unless otherwise requested.
If it becomes necessary for me to resort to legal action to collect fees, the parent(s) will be responsible for legal fees incurred on my part.
If I decided to terminate your childcare for one reason or another, I will give you a two-week notice, if possible. There might be a time when immediate termination could be warranted, and as we both
understand it is not easy to find day care, it is important for policies to be understood and adhered by.
understand it is not easy to find day care, it is important for policies to be understood and adhered by.
Examples of why I would terminate your child's care with or without notice include, but may not be limited to:
• Unexpected long term illness with myself or my immediate family.
• Failure to complete required forms.
• Failure to keep records up to date (shot, address, phone numbers).
• Lack of parental cooperation with issues of discipline.
• Habitual late pick up.
• Failure of child to adjust to the center after a reasonable amount of time.
• Lack of payment.
• Lack of respect for the provider or other children, by the parent or child.
• The needs of child being or becoming that which I am not prepared or able to comply with.
• Violence upon any person or child.
PHOTO and VIDEO TAKING
Documentation of my daycare activities is part of Lil Acorn Academy program. These pictures may be utilized by the children in art projects or curriculum programs. Also, I may wish to post pictures for informational material in pamphlets or on my website. For this purpose, parents will be required to complete the Photo/Video/Website release section of the Registration Forms.
SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE AND OR NEGLECT
If I have reason to suspect abuse or neglect of a child; I will report this concern to the State of Oregon CPS as required by law. I will also write up a report for files. My responsibility is to report suspicions/disclosures, not to determine if abuse has occurred. My primary concern is for the safety and well-being of the child.
CUSTODY ISSUES
If you are going through any type of custody hearing please inform me if one of the parents is not allowed to pick up or see the child(ren) you will be required to bring in the court papers stating this. If there is any change in the legal custody of a child, the parent must provide written documentation confirming the change along with a copy of court papers.
When I have an opening, I will let you know as soon as possible. I will let you know the time frame/age group, in order to enable you to participate in the referral program. I believe my best advertisement is a satisfied family. Therefore, if I fill a space in my daycare from a referral from one of my parents, I will give the referral family one day of free childcare after the new child’s third full month of paid care.
or someone else the parents designate. If someone other than the
parent is to pick the child up, please notify me ahead of time. A verbal
notice is fine on that day if this person is on the list of those
authorized to pick up your child. If the person is not on that list, I
must have written permission to release your child.
One of the forms you are required to complete designates who may
pick the child up if there is an emergency and you cannot contact me.
Please make sure those listed are persons with whom you would allow
your child to leave if that person showed up at my door and said, "I
need to take Johnny with me." Those on the list should also be people
I could call in the event something happened and you did not show up
to pick up your child. Also please work with your child (if age
appropriate) and/or your emergency contacts to designate a “kid code”
a secret word between parent & child for identification and pick up.
This is handy not only for day care but for many other possible
situations.
Please inform your emergency contacts that I will ask for photo
identification. I do not mean to offend them. This is simply a measure
taken for the child's protection.
DISCIPLINEI try to stress two main patterns of behavior: respect for other people,
and respect for property. As a result I don't allow children to hit or
shove other children or verbally abuse them. I also stress that they
treat material possessions (mine or theirs) with respect.
There is a difference between playing hard, and using a toy for a
purpose for which it was not intended. For example, books are for
looking at, not tearing pages out of, and toy brooms are for sweeping,
not for bashing the kitchen set with. Occasionally children do not
behave in respectful ways. I first remind them of the proper behavior.
If the behavior is repeated, a "time out" chair is used. The amount of
time a child sits in "time out" varies according to his age. Most experts
agree that one minute per year of age is the most effective length of
time, but this amount could be extended under certain circumstances,
then I will talk to the child (by now he has calmed down) and try to
explain why that behavior was inappropriate. I might ask, "What might
happen if we continue to throw toys?" The appropriate answers usually
come out: something might get broken, the toy might break, and
someone might get hit by the toy. If a child still has not calmed down
or is really belligerent at this point I will separate him/her from the
other children and go to a safe space until he or she calms down. If
the offense involves hitting or otherwise physically abusing another
child, I skip the "reminder" and go straight to "time out". If a child
continues to abuse a certain toy the privilege of playing with that toy
may be taken away for a period of several minutes up to the rest of
the day. If the whole group of children is engaged in this, the toy will
be considered "closed" for a while. For example, one day I catch the
children throwing the tools and climbing on the workbench. I remind
them that the workbench was not to be played with in this way, and
they continue by turning it upside down and climbing on it that way.
The workbench will be "closed" for the rest of the day, and the next
day we hopefully have no problems with it. If a child(ren) continues to
behave inappropriately, I will talk to you about it. Hopefully these
types of respectful behaviors are ones you want your child to adopt,
too, so they will be reinforced at home. If that is the case, we should
not have any major problems!
Children are never punished for lapses in toilet training or for accidents
(spilled milk, for example). In the case of the latter, I will have the
child help me clean up, if possible, not for punishment, but to help
teach responsibility
The following methods of discipline will be used:
O Encourage children to solve problems themselves.
O Intervention and discussion.
O Re-direction to another play area.
O Loss of privileges.
O Time out.
and respect for property. As a result I don't allow children to hit or
shove other children or verbally abuse them. I also stress that they
treat material possessions (mine or theirs) with respect.
There is a difference between playing hard, and using a toy for a
purpose for which it was not intended. For example, books are for
looking at, not tearing pages out of, and toy brooms are for sweeping,
not for bashing the kitchen set with. Occasionally children do not
behave in respectful ways. I first remind them of the proper behavior.
If the behavior is repeated, a "time out" chair is used. The amount of
time a child sits in "time out" varies according to his age. Most experts
agree that one minute per year of age is the most effective length of
time, but this amount could be extended under certain circumstances,
then I will talk to the child (by now he has calmed down) and try to
explain why that behavior was inappropriate. I might ask, "What might
happen if we continue to throw toys?" The appropriate answers usually
come out: something might get broken, the toy might break, and
someone might get hit by the toy. If a child still has not calmed down
or is really belligerent at this point I will separate him/her from the
other children and go to a safe space until he or she calms down. If
the offense involves hitting or otherwise physically abusing another
child, I skip the "reminder" and go straight to "time out". If a child
continues to abuse a certain toy the privilege of playing with that toy
may be taken away for a period of several minutes up to the rest of
the day. If the whole group of children is engaged in this, the toy will
be considered "closed" for a while. For example, one day I catch the
children throwing the tools and climbing on the workbench. I remind
them that the workbench was not to be played with in this way, and
they continue by turning it upside down and climbing on it that way.
The workbench will be "closed" for the rest of the day, and the next
day we hopefully have no problems with it. If a child(ren) continues to
behave inappropriately, I will talk to you about it. Hopefully these
types of respectful behaviors are ones you want your child to adopt,
too, so they will be reinforced at home. If that is the case, we should
not have any major problems!
Children are never punished for lapses in toilet training or for accidents
(spilled milk, for example). In the case of the latter, I will have the
child help me clean up, if possible, not for punishment, but to help
teach responsibility
The following methods of discipline will be used:
O Encourage children to solve problems themselves.
O Intervention and discussion.
O Re-direction to another play area.
O Loss of privileges.
O Time out.
RELIGIOUS PRACTICESIn today’s day of differing beliefs, I feel that religious teachings should
be left up to the parents. That does not mean that God may never be
mentioned in my home. If you have any restrictions or concerns,
please feel free to address them to me. Upon approval and depending
on the age of the children, we usually have parties at Christmas,
Easter, Halloween, etc. If you do not wish to have your child
participate in these, please let me know & I will accommodate. Again it
is a all for one, one for all situation. I will not alienate a child due to
differing beliefs.
be left up to the parents. That does not mean that God may never be
mentioned in my home. If you have any restrictions or concerns,
please feel free to address them to me. Upon approval and depending
on the age of the children, we usually have parties at Christmas,
Easter, Halloween, etc. If you do not wish to have your child
participate in these, please let me know & I will accommodate. Again it
is a all for one, one for all situation. I will not alienate a child due to
differing beliefs.
CLEANLINESS & HYGIENEI do my best to maintain strict cleanliness and hygiene standards.
Children's hands are washed before and after meals and after toilet
use. I wash my hands frequently and also use
antibacterial gel. Infants sleep in separate pack and plays, with clean
sheets used only by them. Beginning at age 14 months, antimicrobial
washable nap mats are used. Each child has a separate nap mat, with
sheets, blankets and pillows that are washed weekly (unless soiled,
then they are washed as often as necessary).
Children use separate cups, plates, bowls and eating utensils that have
been washed and sanitized after every use. High chair trays, tables,
etc. are washed and sanitized after each use. Toys and play area are
also cleaned weekly.
Please let me know if your child has any sensitivity to detergent or any
type of cleaner. I mostly use All Free and Clear detergent and bleach
and/or vinegar and baking soda cleaning solutions.
Children's hands are washed before and after meals and after toilet
use. I wash my hands frequently and also use
antibacterial gel. Infants sleep in separate pack and plays, with clean
sheets used only by them. Beginning at age 14 months, antimicrobial
washable nap mats are used. Each child has a separate nap mat, with
sheets, blankets and pillows that are washed weekly (unless soiled,
then they are washed as often as necessary).
Children use separate cups, plates, bowls and eating utensils that have
been washed and sanitized after every use. High chair trays, tables,
etc. are washed and sanitized after each use. Toys and play area are
also cleaned weekly.
Please let me know if your child has any sensitivity to detergent or any
type of cleaner. I mostly use All Free and Clear detergent and bleach
and/or vinegar and baking soda cleaning solutions.
NAPS & QUIET TIMEAll children are required to lie down for a rest period in the afternoon.
All children must nap, rest, read or play quietly during this period. Rest
time gives everyone a much-needed break during the day. Without
rest time, some children are argumentative in the afternoon, shorttempered
with others, and not real happy when they go home in the
evening.
Nap time is my only opportunity to take a break, clean up after lunch,
do paperwork, fill out daily notes, and do activity planning. I provide
nap mats and sheets. If your child has a special blanket or stuffed
animal that he/she sleeps with, please send it along. I would ask that
you please avoid picking up or dropping off your child during nap time,
as it disturbs the other children's rest period.
Infants nap at varying times and their schedules will be
accommodated. Somewhere between 12 and 18 months, children
usually drop down to one nap per day. At this time, I will put them on
the scheduled nap/rest period. Please talk to me about any special
circumstances in which your child may require more sleep or an
alternate scheduled rest time.
All children must nap, rest, read or play quietly during this period. Rest
time gives everyone a much-needed break during the day. Without
rest time, some children are argumentative in the afternoon, shorttempered
with others, and not real happy when they go home in the
evening.
Nap time is my only opportunity to take a break, clean up after lunch,
do paperwork, fill out daily notes, and do activity planning. I provide
nap mats and sheets. If your child has a special blanket or stuffed
animal that he/she sleeps with, please send it along. I would ask that
you please avoid picking up or dropping off your child during nap time,
as it disturbs the other children's rest period.
Infants nap at varying times and their schedules will be
accommodated. Somewhere between 12 and 18 months, children
usually drop down to one nap per day. At this time, I will put them on
the scheduled nap/rest period. Please talk to me about any special
circumstances in which your child may require more sleep or an
alternate scheduled rest time.
POTTY LEARNINGWhen you feel your child is ready for potty learning, I ask that you
begin this teaching at home. I will follow through and encourage your
child while in my care. If I find that your child is expressing desire or
asking to “go potty” here before you had this experience at home, I
will go ahead and try to put them on the toilet. If this is not your wish,
you must let me know.
Please keep in mind that the activity level here can distract your child
from responding to an urge to use the potty, more so than at your
home. Therefore, I will continue to use diapers or “pull-ups” until your
child can and will announce that he/she must use the bathroom (not
just at home, but here, also) and can control his/her bladder and
bowels for a few minutes beyond that announcement. When accidents
are only happening once every other week, training pants may be
used. Once your child is accident free for a time, you may begin
bringing them in underwear. I ask that you still provide diapers, “pull
ups” or training pants until he/she has nap time and bedtime control
established.
I also ask that during potty learning, the child be dressed in "userfriendly"
clothing as much as possible. The best items are shorts and
pants with elastic waists, and/or dresses for little girls. Try to avoid
really tight clothing, pants with snaps and zippers, and overalls as
often as you can. Your child will want to help pull pants up and down,
plus clothing with too many "gadgets" makes it harder to get the child
on the potty in time. I warn you that they wait till the last moment to
tell you that they need to “GO RIGHT NOW!” So the easier and
quicker we can make it the better it is for everyone involved. You may
also want to bring an additional change of clothes for accidents during
potty learning time.
begin this teaching at home. I will follow through and encourage your
child while in my care. If I find that your child is expressing desire or
asking to “go potty” here before you had this experience at home, I
will go ahead and try to put them on the toilet. If this is not your wish,
you must let me know.
Please keep in mind that the activity level here can distract your child
from responding to an urge to use the potty, more so than at your
home. Therefore, I will continue to use diapers or “pull-ups” until your
child can and will announce that he/she must use the bathroom (not
just at home, but here, also) and can control his/her bladder and
bowels for a few minutes beyond that announcement. When accidents
are only happening once every other week, training pants may be
used. Once your child is accident free for a time, you may begin
bringing them in underwear. I ask that you still provide diapers, “pull
ups” or training pants until he/she has nap time and bedtime control
established.
I also ask that during potty learning, the child be dressed in "userfriendly"
clothing as much as possible. The best items are shorts and
pants with elastic waists, and/or dresses for little girls. Try to avoid
really tight clothing, pants with snaps and zippers, and overalls as
often as you can. Your child will want to help pull pants up and down,
plus clothing with too many "gadgets" makes it harder to get the child
on the potty in time. I warn you that they wait till the last moment to
tell you that they need to “GO RIGHT NOW!” So the easier and
quicker we can make it the better it is for everyone involved. You may
also want to bring an additional change of clothes for accidents during
potty learning time.
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENTThere will be times and ways you can get involved in your child’s care
experience. You are welcomed and encouraged to participate in
helping your child at home with the concepts we are studying, helping
to provide treats or other items for our parties, and/or helping by
bringing requested recycled items for art and craft projects. No
participation is “required” but I feel that encouraging your children and
following up at home with what they are learning is extremely
valuable.
experience. You are welcomed and encouraged to participate in
helping your child at home with the concepts we are studying, helping
to provide treats or other items for our parties, and/or helping by
bringing requested recycled items for art and craft projects. No
participation is “required” but I feel that encouraging your children and
following up at home with what they are learning is extremely
valuable.
BIRTHDAYS & PARTIESEach child's birthday is his/her "Special Day." I will gladly provide
some type of age appropriate treats for your child's special day unless
you ask me otherwise. I will be sure to let you know which day we will
celebrate. I also have holiday parties occasionally throughout the year in which
parents are welcome, but not required to participate, dress children
festively or provide treats. Please let me know if this violates any
religious teachings or personal preferences you have established for
your child.
some type of age appropriate treats for your child's special day unless
you ask me otherwise. I will be sure to let you know which day we will
celebrate. I also have holiday parties occasionally throughout the year in which
parents are welcome, but not required to participate, dress children
festively or provide treats. Please let me know if this violates any
religious teachings or personal preferences you have established for
your child.
ILLNESSI will not care for a child who has a mid to high grade fever, has
thrown up or has had diarrhea within the last 24 hours. If he/she has a
green discharge from his nose he/she must be on an antibiotic for 24
hours before he/she can attend. If your child is not feeling well, do not
give them Tylenol to mask their symptoms. If your child throws up the
night before and seems fine the next day, he is more than likely still
contagious to the others. You must wait 24 hours. All the children use
the same toilet and washroom and they often "mouth" the same toys.
They are often very affectionate with each other and it is very difficult
to keep a sick child from infecting everyone else. Please have the
same common courtesy you would want displayed for your child. Mild
fevers due to teething are acceptable.
Illnesses are defined as:
**Fever Over or at a 101 degrees
**Conjunctivitis (pink eye) or "cold in the eye"
**Flu
**Unusual rash
**Severe cough
**Rapid breathing or labored breathing
**Severe cold
**Vomiting
**Yellowish skin or eyes
**Diarrhea
**Head lice
**Contagious illness of any sort which results in child being too ill to
participate in daily activities.
If your child simply is not well and/or continues to cry for an extended
amount of time, you will be called to pick your child up. I will not
accept the child for care if any of the above symptoms are present or
have been present within the last 24 hours. If the child shows any of
the symptoms while in care, I will remove him from the group and
notify the parent or authorized adult to pick up the child.
Parents have one hour from time of notification to pick up the child. If
the parent does not come or is unable to come a back up person will
be called.
The child may return 24 hours after a temperature has returned to
normal, 24 hours after the child is no longer vomiting, or 24-48 hours
(depending on the illness) after the first dose of an antibiotic.
If a child receives an antibiotic for an ear infection he may return to
day care immediately if he has been free of other symptoms
mentioned for at least 24 hours.
The child is welcome when he has only a mild cold (e.g. runny nose or
mild cough), but is able to participate in the day's activities.
thrown up or has had diarrhea within the last 24 hours. If he/she has a
green discharge from his nose he/she must be on an antibiotic for 24
hours before he/she can attend. If your child is not feeling well, do not
give them Tylenol to mask their symptoms. If your child throws up the
night before and seems fine the next day, he is more than likely still
contagious to the others. You must wait 24 hours. All the children use
the same toilet and washroom and they often "mouth" the same toys.
They are often very affectionate with each other and it is very difficult
to keep a sick child from infecting everyone else. Please have the
same common courtesy you would want displayed for your child. Mild
fevers due to teething are acceptable.
Illnesses are defined as:
**Fever Over or at a 101 degrees
**Conjunctivitis (pink eye) or "cold in the eye"
**Flu
**Unusual rash
**Severe cough
**Rapid breathing or labored breathing
**Severe cold
**Vomiting
**Yellowish skin or eyes
**Diarrhea
**Head lice
**Contagious illness of any sort which results in child being too ill to
participate in daily activities.
If your child simply is not well and/or continues to cry for an extended
amount of time, you will be called to pick your child up. I will not
accept the child for care if any of the above symptoms are present or
have been present within the last 24 hours. If the child shows any of
the symptoms while in care, I will remove him from the group and
notify the parent or authorized adult to pick up the child.
Parents have one hour from time of notification to pick up the child. If
the parent does not come or is unable to come a back up person will
be called.
The child may return 24 hours after a temperature has returned to
normal, 24 hours after the child is no longer vomiting, or 24-48 hours
(depending on the illness) after the first dose of an antibiotic.
If a child receives an antibiotic for an ear infection he may return to
day care immediately if he has been free of other symptoms
mentioned for at least 24 hours.
The child is welcome when he has only a mild cold (e.g. runny nose or
mild cough), but is able to participate in the day's activities.
MEDICATIONIf your child is on medication and it needs to be administered while
he/she is at day care, the medicine must be in the original container
and labeled with the child's name, doctor's name, name of medication,
dosage, and when to be taken. I also have a consent form for you to
sign giving me permission to administer the medication to your child.
Medication will be administered on the schedule you advise or that is
given on the bottle. Verbal dosing instructions are fine.
Over the counter medications, creams and lotions (such as sunscreen,
diaper rash cream and/or Tylenol or Ibuprofen, etc…) can be given
with parental consent and verbal or bottle dosing instructions.
he/she is at day care, the medicine must be in the original container
and labeled with the child's name, doctor's name, name of medication,
dosage, and when to be taken. I also have a consent form for you to
sign giving me permission to administer the medication to your child.
Medication will be administered on the schedule you advise or that is
given on the bottle. Verbal dosing instructions are fine.
Over the counter medications, creams and lotions (such as sunscreen,
diaper rash cream and/or Tylenol or Ibuprofen, etc…) can be given
with parental consent and verbal or bottle dosing instructions.
INJURIES AND OTHER EMERGENCIESMinor cuts and abrasions suffered while at the center will receive
proper care -- specifically, they will be washed with soap and warm
water and properly bandaged. Treatment will be logged and I will tell
you how and when the injury occurred. I also am required to log any
injuries I observe on your child which have occurred outside of my
care, and I am required by law to report any possible abuse situations.
If a medical emergency arises, I will try to contact a parent/guardian
first, unless doing so endangers the child's life. In that case I will take
necessary steps, such as calling hospital, doctor, poison control, etc.
first. If need be, your child will be sent to the nearest Emergency
Room via ambulance. Being that I have other children in my charge, I
will not be able to attend the hospital with your child. I will try to reach
parents as soon as possible in this event. If a parent is unable to be
reached, I will keep trying until he or she is available. In the meantime
I will also attempt to contact your emergency contacts on file as well,
so that someone can be there to tend to the child.
In the event of a fire, we would evacuate the house immediately (3
exits are available) and gather outside. This will be practiced monthly
so the children are familiar with what to do.
proper care -- specifically, they will be washed with soap and warm
water and properly bandaged. Treatment will be logged and I will tell
you how and when the injury occurred. I also am required to log any
injuries I observe on your child which have occurred outside of my
care, and I am required by law to report any possible abuse situations.
If a medical emergency arises, I will try to contact a parent/guardian
first, unless doing so endangers the child's life. In that case I will take
necessary steps, such as calling hospital, doctor, poison control, etc.
first. If need be, your child will be sent to the nearest Emergency
Room via ambulance. Being that I have other children in my charge, I
will not be able to attend the hospital with your child. I will try to reach
parents as soon as possible in this event. If a parent is unable to be
reached, I will keep trying until he or she is available. In the meantime
I will also attempt to contact your emergency contacts on file as well,
so that someone can be there to tend to the child.
In the event of a fire, we would evacuate the house immediately (3
exits are available) and gather outside. This will be practiced monthly
so the children are familiar with what to do.
ITEMS TO BE BROUGHT TO LIL ACORN ACADEMY
1. 2 Complete changes of clothes --Weather appropriate and
properly sized clothing.
2. Swim suit and sunscreen (in the summer).
3. Diapers and/or Pull-ups-- you may bring a whole package of
diapers to be stored in the changing area and I will let you know
when your supply runs low. It is handy to write your childs name in the diapers.
4. Blanket –to be sent home to be laundered every Friday.
5. Infant needs such as breast milk and/or formula.
6. Bottles and sippy cups.
7. Weather appropriate items such as jackets, boots, gloves, etc…
8. Jarred Baby food
properly sized clothing.
2. Swim suit and sunscreen (in the summer).
3. Diapers and/or Pull-ups-- you may bring a whole package of
diapers to be stored in the changing area and I will let you know
when your supply runs low. It is handy to write your childs name in the diapers.
4. Blanket –to be sent home to be laundered every Friday.
5. Infant needs such as breast milk and/or formula.
6. Bottles and sippy cups.
7. Weather appropriate items such as jackets, boots, gloves, etc…
8. Jarred Baby food
ITEMS PROVIDED BY LIL ACORN ACADEMY
1. Wipes
2. Plates and Utensils
3. Bibs
4. Pack and play and nap mat sheets and pillows
5. Breakfast, Lunch and 2 snacks daily
6. Whole Milk and Water
Regarding Items:
Please note that good clothing is not recommended. Soiled clothing will
be sent home and a clean change of clothes should be brought back
the next day.
If there is a special occasion that calls for special clothing after child
care or a trip, please send the special clothing with your child and I will
help them clean up and get dressed prior to your arrival.
All items need to be labeled with your child's name or initials.
Please keep in mind that if you do not bring a needed item, it may
prevent all of the children from going outside. If it becomes necessary
for me to purchase supplies and/or requested items for your
child(ren), you will be billed on your next payment due date.
Personal items will be returned to you on your last day of care. If your
belongings are left here they will be kept for 30 days only. After 30
days they will be donated to a local charity.
2. Plates and Utensils
3. Bibs
4. Pack and play and nap mat sheets and pillows
5. Breakfast, Lunch and 2 snacks daily
6. Whole Milk and Water
Regarding Items:
Please note that good clothing is not recommended. Soiled clothing will
be sent home and a clean change of clothes should be brought back
the next day.
If there is a special occasion that calls for special clothing after child
care or a trip, please send the special clothing with your child and I will
help them clean up and get dressed prior to your arrival.
All items need to be labeled with your child's name or initials.
Please keep in mind that if you do not bring a needed item, it may
prevent all of the children from going outside. If it becomes necessary
for me to purchase supplies and/or requested items for your
child(ren), you will be billed on your next payment due date.
Personal items will be returned to you on your last day of care. If your
belongings are left here they will be kept for 30 days only. After 30
days they will be donated to a local charity.
PRESCHOOL EDUCATIONI believe children should have fun! After all, even the experts agree
that preschool age children learn most through play. These carefree
years are so short, and soon the children will be exposed to a much
more structured form of learning. During the month, many activities
take place which help promote basic skills (letter & number
recognition, color & shape recognition, large motor skills, small motor
skills, etc.). We also incorporate morning and afternoon outside play when weather allows.
Children under school age do not play outdoors when it is below 30
degrees. There are learning stations in my daycare playroom.
There is a housekeeping area, blocks and trucks, puzzles and books,
dress up items and much more!
that preschool age children learn most through play. These carefree
years are so short, and soon the children will be exposed to a much
more structured form of learning. During the month, many activities
take place which help promote basic skills (letter & number
recognition, color & shape recognition, large motor skills, small motor
skills, etc.). We also incorporate morning and afternoon outside play when weather allows.
Children under school age do not play outdoors when it is below 30
degrees. There are learning stations in my daycare playroom.
There is a housekeeping area, blocks and trucks, puzzles and books,
dress up items and much more!
HOUSE RULESPlease respect my profession, my home, and me. The respect that you
show me, including my home, furnishings, equipment, yard, and other
children will communicate itself to your child and will make for a better
working relationship. There are certain house rules that all children will
be taught and expected to follow. Although I realize that I must expect
a certain amount of wear and tear where children are concerned, I do
not want to have my home demolished.
The following rules are enforced for the safety and well being
of everyone:
• No leaving the designated area of the yard.
• Kids must share all toys.
• No climbing in trees, pulling on or swinging from the branches.
• No running, jumping, or screaming permitted inside the house.
• No hitting, pushing, biting, grabbing, kicking, spitting, or
pinching others, including your parents.
• No standing or climbing on toys, chairs, tables, or furniture.
• No mistreatment of toys – i.e.: standing on, throwing, bashing,
hitting with. Parents will be asked to pay for or replace toys if
this occurs and ends in damage.
• No mistreatment of my belongings, fixtures or furnishings in my
home. Parents will be asked to pay for or replace items if this
occurs.
• No name calling, teasing, swearing, bad language such as 'shut
up', tattling, or potty talk.
• No violent play allowed.
• No rough housing, climbing or sitting on, pulling, or
lifting/carrying other children.
• No walking around the house with food, cups, or bottles. Eating
and drinking only at the table.
• No going out the door at pick up time without an adult.
• Please knock or ring bell prior to entering.
• No smoking is permitted on the premises.
• No gum and/or no food brought from home unless pre-arranged.
• Call as soon as possible if your child is not attending or will be
late.
• No jewelry, small barrettes, or other accessories that pose a
choking hazard to any child in the daycare.
• Children and families are welcome in any areas of the home that
are used for childcare purposes. My family and I also need some
privacy and separation from the childcare. Please respect this. It
is hard for my husband and children to share their
home/wife/mother so intimately with other children/families, for
so many hours each day. It is important for them to feel that
they have their own space. My children are expected to keep any
toys that they are not prepared to share, in their rooms, away
from the other children. Therefore, children and childcare
families are not permitted in any other living areas (dining room,
living room, bedrooms, etc…) except in the event that they are
in use for napping.
• Please be sure to park in the driveway and utilize the walk way
when picking up or dropping off.
show me, including my home, furnishings, equipment, yard, and other
children will communicate itself to your child and will make for a better
working relationship. There are certain house rules that all children will
be taught and expected to follow. Although I realize that I must expect
a certain amount of wear and tear where children are concerned, I do
not want to have my home demolished.
The following rules are enforced for the safety and well being
of everyone:
• No leaving the designated area of the yard.
• Kids must share all toys.
• No climbing in trees, pulling on or swinging from the branches.
• No running, jumping, or screaming permitted inside the house.
• No hitting, pushing, biting, grabbing, kicking, spitting, or
pinching others, including your parents.
• No standing or climbing on toys, chairs, tables, or furniture.
• No mistreatment of toys – i.e.: standing on, throwing, bashing,
hitting with. Parents will be asked to pay for or replace toys if
this occurs and ends in damage.
• No mistreatment of my belongings, fixtures or furnishings in my
home. Parents will be asked to pay for or replace items if this
occurs.
• No name calling, teasing, swearing, bad language such as 'shut
up', tattling, or potty talk.
• No violent play allowed.
• No rough housing, climbing or sitting on, pulling, or
lifting/carrying other children.
• No walking around the house with food, cups, or bottles. Eating
and drinking only at the table.
• No going out the door at pick up time without an adult.
• Please knock or ring bell prior to entering.
• No smoking is permitted on the premises.
• No gum and/or no food brought from home unless pre-arranged.
• Call as soon as possible if your child is not attending or will be
late.
• No jewelry, small barrettes, or other accessories that pose a
choking hazard to any child in the daycare.
• Children and families are welcome in any areas of the home that
are used for childcare purposes. My family and I also need some
privacy and separation from the childcare. Please respect this. It
is hard for my husband and children to share their
home/wife/mother so intimately with other children/families, for
so many hours each day. It is important for them to feel that
they have their own space. My children are expected to keep any
toys that they are not prepared to share, in their rooms, away
from the other children. Therefore, children and childcare
families are not permitted in any other living areas (dining room,
living room, bedrooms, etc…) except in the event that they are
in use for napping.
• Please be sure to park in the driveway and utilize the walk way
when picking up or dropping off.
LIABILITIESChildren will never be left unsupervised nor will they be abused or
neglected while in my care. However, accidents do happen. I am First
Aid and CPR trained and in case of emergency, I will administer the
necessary First Aid. In the case of a severe emergency that I cannot
tend to myself, an ambulance will be called & your child will be
transported to the nearest hospital. YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED
IMMEDIATELY! If an ambulance must be called to transport your child,
the cost of the ambulance will be your responsibility. You are
responsible for all costs involved in emergency medical treatment,
including emergency transportation, if required. The owner of Lil Acorn Academy or my family will not be held liable for any
sickness or injury of either parent/guardian or child while on these
premises.
neglected while in my care. However, accidents do happen. I am First
Aid and CPR trained and in case of emergency, I will administer the
necessary First Aid. In the case of a severe emergency that I cannot
tend to myself, an ambulance will be called & your child will be
transported to the nearest hospital. YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED
IMMEDIATELY! If an ambulance must be called to transport your child,
the cost of the ambulance will be your responsibility. You are
responsible for all costs involved in emergency medical treatment,
including emergency transportation, if required. The owner of Lil Acorn Academy or my family will not be held liable for any
sickness or injury of either parent/guardian or child while on these
premises.
INDOOR PLAYIndoor Play constitutes the majority of our play time (when the entire
year is averaged). I provide a variety of age-appropriate toys for your
child to play with. Since the ages of the children I watch vary, all the
toys I have are safe for even the youngest. Also, for this reason, it is
preferred that no toys be brought from home. As previously stated, I
will not be responsible for toys from home that get broken or lost at
day care.
In addition to toys we will participate in circle time, art time (if
applicable to the ages of the children), reading, learning and other fun
activities. During the long winter months, I will provide more indoor
physical play to get the “wiggles” out.
year is averaged). I provide a variety of age-appropriate toys for your
child to play with. Since the ages of the children I watch vary, all the
toys I have are safe for even the youngest. Also, for this reason, it is
preferred that no toys be brought from home. As previously stated, I
will not be responsible for toys from home that get broken or lost at
day care.
In addition to toys we will participate in circle time, art time (if
applicable to the ages of the children), reading, learning and other fun
activities. During the long winter months, I will provide more indoor
physical play to get the “wiggles” out.
OUTDOOR PLAYPlease dress your child appropriately for the current weather, and in
play clothes with shoes that adequately protect the feet and are not
slick-soled -- tennis shoes are a good choice. When the weather
cooperates we will spend time outdoors. I have a tire swing, sand box, play house and several outdoor activities for the children to enjoy. In addition, we
will learn about bugs and trees and flowers and incorporate this into
our theme and learning. Upon parental approval for all children, we
will also participate in water play with either the sprinkler slip n slife or blow up
pool, weather permitting.
play clothes with shoes that adequately protect the feet and are not
slick-soled -- tennis shoes are a good choice. When the weather
cooperates we will spend time outdoors. I have a tire swing, sand box, play house and several outdoor activities for the children to enjoy. In addition, we
will learn about bugs and trees and flowers and incorporate this into
our theme and learning. Upon parental approval for all children, we
will also participate in water play with either the sprinkler slip n slife or blow up
pool, weather permitting.
SAFETY:• Smoke alarms are located throughout the home and are tested
once per month.
• All poisons and medicines are kept out of the reach of children
and all low cabinets have child locks.
• First aid kit is kept in the home.
• The outside play area yard is groomed and free of any garbage,
poisons, or other hazards.
once per month.
• All poisons and medicines are kept out of the reach of children
and all low cabinets have child locks.
• First aid kit is kept in the home.
• The outside play area yard is groomed and free of any garbage,
poisons, or other hazards.
REQUIREMENTS FOR ENROLLMENT:Attached is a checklist which covers requirements for enrollment. This
must be followed in order to enroll your child. All paperwork must be
received before your child may start. All of the forms provided to you
should be filled out completely, if it does not apply to you simply put
N/A on the line. I must have a copy of your child’s shot record up to
date as well.
Completing these files may seem a tedious venture for you but we
both know that having them on file for me is very pertinent. I require
sign off on the reading of this handbook and agreement to the policies
and procedures in addition to the Registration Forms and Contract.
INTERVIEW PROCESS:I recommend two visits to Lil Acorn Academy: the first
during my off hours when your child will not be overwhelmed by the
other children and the noise, and will have all the toys available to
him/her. During this time I will be able to give your child undivided
attention and we can get level of comfort with each other. The second
visit could be during regular day care hours. I usually recommend
mornings as the children usually nap during the afternoon.
must be followed in order to enroll your child. All paperwork must be
received before your child may start. All of the forms provided to you
should be filled out completely, if it does not apply to you simply put
N/A on the line. I must have a copy of your child’s shot record up to
date as well.
Completing these files may seem a tedious venture for you but we
both know that having them on file for me is very pertinent. I require
sign off on the reading of this handbook and agreement to the policies
and procedures in addition to the Registration Forms and Contract.
INTERVIEW PROCESS:I recommend two visits to Lil Acorn Academy: the first
during my off hours when your child will not be overwhelmed by the
other children and the noise, and will have all the toys available to
him/her. During this time I will be able to give your child undivided
attention and we can get level of comfort with each other. The second
visit could be during regular day care hours. I usually recommend
mornings as the children usually nap during the afternoon.
What is normal:
It is normal for your child to have some fears about being away from
you. Children, like adults, need time to get used to new situations. Try
to prepare your child for the changes as far in advance as possible.
Discuss any concerns. Talk about some of the new people your child
will meet and the new things your child will do. If you are enthusiastic,
soon your child will be too. Some children take longer to adjust and sometimes have issues
napping. As a provider I can recognize situations that are normal,
versus what may be a prolonged or over agitation and will try to work
with your child to help adjustment or address with you the situation if
I cannot seem to help them adjust in a reasonable period of time.
If this is the first time your child has been separated from you, it is
natural for him/her to be hesitant. A cheerful good-bye kiss, a smile,
and a reassuring word that you will be back after work is all you need
to do. I will take it from there. Please do not sneak out when your
child is not looking. I have come to learn that this can make children
more afraid and they don’t feel as trustworthy toward you leaving
them if you sneak away. They will adjust better to a quick goodbye.
Though they may cry when you leave, usually the child will settle down
shortly after you are gone.
you. Children, like adults, need time to get used to new situations. Try
to prepare your child for the changes as far in advance as possible.
Discuss any concerns. Talk about some of the new people your child
will meet and the new things your child will do. If you are enthusiastic,
soon your child will be too. Some children take longer to adjust and sometimes have issues
napping. As a provider I can recognize situations that are normal,
versus what may be a prolonged or over agitation and will try to work
with your child to help adjustment or address with you the situation if
I cannot seem to help them adjust in a reasonable period of time.
If this is the first time your child has been separated from you, it is
natural for him/her to be hesitant. A cheerful good-bye kiss, a smile,
and a reassuring word that you will be back after work is all you need
to do. I will take it from there. Please do not sneak out when your
child is not looking. I have come to learn that this can make children
more afraid and they don’t feel as trustworthy toward you leaving
them if you sneak away. They will adjust better to a quick goodbye.
Though they may cry when you leave, usually the child will settle down
shortly after you are gone.
Common Behaviors:Depending on their age, some children will "act out" their feelings by:
• Clinging to you and refusing to let go.
• Having tantrums.
• Forgetting their toilet training.
• Not eating.
• Waking up at night or having bad dreams.
• Bed-wetting.
• Expressing desire to stay home
• Clinging to you and refusing to let go.
• Having tantrums.
• Forgetting their toilet training.
• Not eating.
• Waking up at night or having bad dreams.
• Bed-wetting.
• Expressing desire to stay home
What you can do:Usually these problems are temporary. If your child is treated
lovingly but firmly, this behavior should go away. Please feel free to
call lil Acorn Academy any time of day should you want to
check on your child. Chances are that your child will be busy playing
and you can relax and concentrate on work. I know that I have been in
the same situation and fully understand your concerns and need for
reassuring that your child is happy in my care.
It is normal for some children to have difficulty separating from
parents in the morning or not wanting to leave when it's time to go
home. Please be very brief during these transition times. The longer
you prolong the departure the harder it gets. A smile, cheerful goodbye
kiss, and a reassuring word that you will be back are all that is
needed in the morning. In my experience, children are nearly always
quick to get involved in play or activities as soon as parents are gone.
You can help your child at home by staying positive and getting
excited about daycare. Children are more receptive to our feelings
than we realize. If you are feeling nervous or worried about going to
work or taking your child to daycare, they will feel that energy and
intern become negative toward the experience as well. Try to put on a
happy face and remember that you are doing the best for your child
and that you chose lil Acorn Academy for a reason! Let me take it
from there. It is definitely a transition time for both parent and child
and I will do whatever I can do to make that transition easiest for both
of you. Again, any concerns or questions you have I will be happy to
address with you prior to starting or any time afer.
lovingly but firmly, this behavior should go away. Please feel free to
call lil Acorn Academy any time of day should you want to
check on your child. Chances are that your child will be busy playing
and you can relax and concentrate on work. I know that I have been in
the same situation and fully understand your concerns and need for
reassuring that your child is happy in my care.
It is normal for some children to have difficulty separating from
parents in the morning or not wanting to leave when it's time to go
home. Please be very brief during these transition times. The longer
you prolong the departure the harder it gets. A smile, cheerful goodbye
kiss, and a reassuring word that you will be back are all that is
needed in the morning. In my experience, children are nearly always
quick to get involved in play or activities as soon as parents are gone.
You can help your child at home by staying positive and getting
excited about daycare. Children are more receptive to our feelings
than we realize. If you are feeling nervous or worried about going to
work or taking your child to daycare, they will feel that energy and
intern become negative toward the experience as well. Try to put on a
happy face and remember that you are doing the best for your child
and that you chose lil Acorn Academy for a reason! Let me take it
from there. It is definitely a transition time for both parent and child
and I will do whatever I can do to make that transition easiest for both
of you. Again, any concerns or questions you have I will be happy to
address with you prior to starting or any time afer.
I/We, ________________ and __________________, the parent(s)
of
______________________
have read the handbook and agree to all stated including the terms of
payment, child care hours and lateness policy.
We have filled out and attached the appropriate forms, deposit, and
immunization records. We understand what is and is not provided by
Lil Acorn Academy and will provide the needed materials
for our child(ren) on the day they begin care at Lil Acorn Academy
of
______________________
have read the handbook and agree to all stated including the terms of
payment, child care hours and lateness policy.
We have filled out and attached the appropriate forms, deposit, and
immunization records. We understand what is and is not provided by
Lil Acorn Academy and will provide the needed materials
for our child(ren) on the day they begin care at Lil Acorn Academy
Date: __/__/____ ________________________________
D M Y Parent/Guardian signature
Date: __/__/____ ________________________________
D M Y Parent/Guardian signature
D M Y Parent/Guardian signature
Date: __/__/____ ________________________________
D M Y Parent/Guardian signature
Rate:_________________________Deposit_____________
My child's schedule for care_____________________________
