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FAMILY HANDBOOK
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Little Critters                                Early Learning Centers

Family Handbook of

Center Policies

ECE Grantee      

upk                                               pre4cle                                        

 cacfp sponsor

Ohio Healthy Program

LITTLE CRITTERS EARLY LEARNING CENTER

12625 Lena Ave

Cleveland Ohio 44135

 216-252-2600

littlecritterselc@gmail.com

Established August of 2013 

WELCOME

Dear Family,

We would like to extend a warm welcome to you and your family. Little Critters Early Learning Center is built upon a strong foundation of excellence and attentiveness. Little Critters Early Learning Center’s Director, Teachers, Cook and Kitchen helper are 100% dedicated to the advancement of your child.  Teachers and staff strive to provide a high quality, high nutrition based, nature based, fun, stimulating, nurturing environment.

Your child will develop physically, cognitively, socially, emotionally and intellectually with a strong emphasis on independence through our curriculum & assessment driven  program.  We offer a warm and caring environment where your child is able to learn cooperation, manners, empathy and respect for nature and others.  Each child is given the opportunity & introduced to tools that will assist them in reaching their potential.

 Here at Little Critters Early Learning Center we invite our families to join us in the adventures of teaching and learning. Children have much to learn from us, yet we find that we are learning from them, every day.  Throughout the year Little Critters Early Learning Center hosts numerous activities for families and friends to partake in.  Every event has a purpose and that is to make sure that all children are engaged in activities that best support their different learning styles and family cultures. Little Critters Early Learning Center attempts to make our environment a fun, loving place that involves everyone. We are firm believers that with your valuable input, participation in our Action Team and volunteering we can create a daily love of learning with each child in our care.

Thank you for choosing Little Critters Early Learning Center. We look forward to providing your child with a caring and enriching environment.

Best regards,

Brenda Dillingham

Administrative Director

littlecritterselc@gmail.com

216-252-2600

Little Critters Early Learning Center


Table of Contents

About Us        4

Philosophy        4

Mission        4

Certification        4

Definition of Family        4

Hours of Operation        4

Holidays                                                                                                                                                        5        

Admission & Enrollment        5

Inclusion        5

Onsite Therapy        5

Non-Discrimination                                                                                                                                        5

Volunteering         5

Family Activities        6

Confidentiality        6

Staff Qualifications        6

Child to Staff Ratios        7

Communication & Family Partnership        8

Open Door Policy        8

Partnerships        8

Publicity        8

Outings and Field Trips         8

Curricula & Learning        9

Learning Environment        9

Curricula & Assessment        9

Developmental Screening        9

Transitions        10

Transition from home to center        10

Transition between learning programs        10

Transition to Kindergarten        10        

Electronic Media        10

Multiculturalism        10

Celebrations        11

Rest Time        12

Toilet Training        12

Guidance        13

Conflict resolution                                                                                                                                        13                            

General Procedure                                                                                                                                      13

Discipline        13

Challenging Behavior        14

Physical Restraint        14

Notification of Behavioral Issues to Families        14

Tuition and Fees        15

Payment        15

Late Payment Charges        15

Rejected Transaction Charges        15

Late Pick-up Fees        15

Special Activity Fees        16

Additional Fees/ Credits        16

Attendance & Withdrawal        16

Absence        16

Vacation        16

Withdrawal        16

Transfer of Records        16

Closing Due to Extreme Weather        17

Drop-off and Pick-up        17

General Procedure        17

Cell Phone Usage        17

Authorized & Unauthorized Pick-up        18

Right to Refuse Child Release        18

Personal Belongings        19

Child’s Supplies         19

Cubbies        19

Lost & Found        19

Toys Etc from Home        19

Nutrition        20

Outside Food Policy         20

Food Prepared         20

Meal Time        20

Food Allergies                                                                                                                                             20

Meal Time Safety                                                                                                                                   20

Children 24 Months and Older        20

Infant Feedings        20

Diapers changed minimally every two hours        20

Health        20

Immunizations        20

Physicals        21

Illness        21

Allergy Prevention        22

Medications        23

Communicable Diseases        24

Safety        24

Clothing        24

Extreme Weather and Outdoor Play        24

Communal Water-Play        24

Injuries        24

Biting        24

Respectful Behavior        24

Smoking        24

Prohibited Substances        25

Dangerous Weapons        25

Child Custody        25

Suspected Child Abuse        25                                                                                                                                                                          

Emergencies        26

Lost or Missing Child        26

Fire Safety        26

Emergency Transportation        26

Family Activities And Family Involvement        26

Family/Parent Workshops         27

COVID-19        28

Ohio Healthy Program NEW policies                                                                                                          29                 

US Department of Agriculture                                                                                                                     30

About Us

Philosophy

PHILOSOPHY:                                                                                                                                                                 Little Critters Early Learning Center believes that the first years of a child’s life is by far the most important.  Helping to lay the foundation for all intellectual and emotional development through nurturing and individualized attention.  Our Teaching staff take great care to provide a warm, friendly and fun group environment for your child, while ensuring they receive the guidance and structure they need.  We strive to nurture your child’s ideas and imagination, acknowledging each child’s individuality and validate each personality.  Our goal is to provide a place where children know they are accepted, loved, protected and wanted; helping to instill in each child a strong sense of self-worth and purpose.  Our job is to make sure that each child has numerous positive experiences and interactions throughout their day.  It is the hope of Little Critters Early Learning Center that when the day is done, and your child goes home, they feel happy and proud of themselves; eager to share their day with you.  Each day we feel privileged to have had the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of your child and to join in their laughter.

Mission

Little Critters Early Learning Centers mission is to support the development of happy, caring and productive human beings by providing

To ensure a high quality early learning program, Little Critters Early Learning Center will:

Definition of Family

In this handbook we refer to a family as a parent, legal guardian, sponsor or anyone else who provides for the well-being, best-interest and responsibility of the child in our care.

Hours of Operation

Little Critters ELC is open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM MONDAY through FRIDAY.

Child’s attendance policy: Private or subsidized rates cover a: Maximum of 9 hours of care per day

Holidays Closures We are closed for the following holidays: New Year’s Eve & Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Eve & Day, Christmas Eve & Day.

Professional Development Closures

We are closed for Professional Development four times per year dates will be announced via Brightwheel and posted in our Brightwheel calendar

Admission & Enrollment

All admission and enrollment forms must be completed and first tuition payment or Copay must be paid prior to your child’s first day of attendance.

A two-week, non-refundable tuition deposit is required for each child enrolled. This deposit will be held without interest and will represent tuition payment for the last two weeks of the child’s enrollment.

Based on the availability and openings, our facility admits children from Eight weeks of age until they enter Kindergarten.

Children are admitted without regard to race, culture, sex, religion, national origin, or disability. We do not discriminate on the basis of special needs as long as a safe, supportive environment can be provided.

Inclusion

Little Critters Early Learning Center believes that children of all ability levels are entitled to the same opportunities for participation, acceptance and belonging in Early Learning/child care. We will make every reasonable accommodation to encourage full and active participation of all children in our group care program based on his/her individual capabilities and needs.

If your child has an identified  additional need, additional descriptive paperwork will be requested. Forms such as but not limited to: Special Diet Form, JFS 01217 Request For the Administration of Medication, JFS 01236 Child Medical/Physical Care Plan must be completed and training/ if needed of staff, completed prior to child’s first day of attendance.

Onsite Therapy

Behavior Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy are offered through Therapeds

Non-Discrimination

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

Family Activities

Each family is a child’s first teacher. We value families as partners in the growth and development of children in our program. We encourage parents and other family members to be involved in our program, visit children’s classrooms, participate in events, and provide feedback on our program. We offer a variety of ways in which families can participate in helping us establish and reach our program goals.

Confidentiality

Unless we receive your written consent, information regarding your child will not be released with the exception of that required by our regulatory and partnering agencies. All records concerning children at our program are confidential.

Staff Qualifications

Our Teaching Staff are hired in compliance with the state requirements and qualifications as a base minimum. Typical staff certifications are as follows:

Position Title

Education/Certification

Ongoing Education for all staff        

Lead Teacher

CDA                                                      Child Development Associate Credential

                       15 hours Child Development annually

Teacher Assistant

Working toward: CDA                                Child Development Associate Credential

Teacher’s Aid

High School Diploma / GED  

                                                                                                         

Caregivers participate in orientation and ongoing training in the areas of child growth and development, healthy and safe environments, developmentally appropriate practices, guidance, family relationships, cultural and individual diversity, and professionalism.

We strongly discourage families from entering into employment arrangements with staff (i.e. babysitting). Any arrangement between families and our caregivers outside the programs and services we offer is a private matter, not connected or sanctioned by Little Critters Early Learning Center

Child to Staff Ratios

Children are supervised at all times. All caregivers receive scheduled breaks which reduce fatigue and help to ensure alertness.

We maintain the following standards for child to staff ratios:

Age

Child to Staff

Maximum Group Size

< 18 months

1:5 / 2:12

12

18-36 months

1:7 / 2:14

14

3 year-olds

1:10 / 2:20

20

4 – 5 year-olds

1:10 / 2:20

20

Communication & Family Partnership

Daily Communications. Your child’s Teacher will keep you informed about your child’s activities and experiences at the center at pick up or drop off times. Thru our Brightwheel App.

Parent Bulletin Board. Located above the Parent sign-in/sign-out station provides center news, upcoming events, faculty changes, holiday closing dates, announcements, etc.

Newsletters. Monthly newsletters provide center news, events, announcements, etc. These newsletters are available on your Brightwheel.

Email. We encourage you to provide an email address that you use regularly so that we may send you announcements, Ready Rosie learning opportunities & family engagement, event invitations, newsletters and general updates.

Parent Resource Our parent resource area provides a learning environment for parents to share opinions, ideas and experiences and increase their understanding of learning and development. These resources are available everyday for your convenience. Many resources are posted on your Brightwheel

Family Visits. Family participation is encouraged. Visit our classrooms, volunteer, come along on an inhouse field trip, or eat a meal with your child. Signing in is required for the safety and protection of our children. Each visitor must wear a visitor’s badge while on premises and sign in/out.

Family Engagement & Monthly Meeting. Are held via Zoom ( since Covid) Family engagement  provides ideas for families and children time to share, learn, and have fun. Families have an opportunity to be a part of their child’s learning experience and connect with other families.

Conferences. Family & teacher conferences occur two times per  year. During these conferences, we will discuss your child’s strengths, likes and dislikes, and styles of learning. We will plan new goals for him/her.  We will work together to set goals for your child’s growth and development. You may request additional conferences regarding your child’s progress at any time. We encourage you to communicate any concerns.

Open Door Policy

We are delighted to have family members participate in our program. Parents/Guardians are welcome to visit Little Critters Early Learning Center any time during regular program hours. The infant room welcomes parents/guardians to nurse or feed their infants.

Open Door Policy does not mean the doors will be unlocked. For the safety and protection of the children, external doors will be kept locked at all times.

Our team will always do their best to speak with parents/guardians. Since staff days are devoted to caring for children, it is usually not feasible to have a long discussion during regular program hours. If a situation requires a longer discussion, kindly arrange for an appointment.

Partnerships

UPK - Universal Pre Kindergarten

National Network of Partnership Schools

Pre4Cle

Cleveland Early Learning Spaces

CACFP

Therapeds

Ohio Guidestone

TAP - Achievement Centers

Ohio Healthy Families

Lena Grows

Publicity

Occasionally, photos will be taken of the children at the center for use within the center or on our website and on Brightwheel. Permission/Consent on LCELC contract.

Unless the family indicates that they want their child to participate, we will not use pictures and names of children for publicity.

Outings and Field Trips

Weather permitting; ABOVE 32* We conduct 30-45 minutes of supervised outdoor play two times a day for all children. {Infants with warmer weather only} Children are accounted for at all times.

Curricula & Learning

Learning Environment

Little Critters Early Learning Center provides a rich learning environment with curricula that are developmentally appropriate to the specific ages in each classroom. We have a flexible day routine that allows children to advance at their own pace. We strongly believe that learning happens through play. Learning and exploring are hands-on and are facilitated through interest areas. Our program is designed to enhance children’s development in the following areas:  creativity, self-expression, decision-making, problem-solving, responsibility, independence, and reasoning. We encourage openness to that which is different from us, and the ability to work and play with others.

Curricula & Assessment

Little Critters Early Learning Center uses Creative Curriculum. “To lift lives through education, Creative Curriculum engages in evaluative research, product and services development, publishing, and training.  We envision a world in which all educational settings use active participatory learning so everyone has a chance to succeed in life and contribute to society.”.  As part of this curriculum, we gather information about each child’s developmental abilities and evaluate progress so we can modify and adjust what we are doing in our classroom so as to deliver the best individualized instruction for each child. This evaluation is communicated to families periodically during the school year using various formal and informal tools, forms, and resources. LCELC utilizes “Creative Curriculum” in all of our classrooms

Developmental Screening Used

Teaching Strategies Gold assessment,ASQ & ASQ-SE & DECA  We are looking forward to implementing these assessments and using the knowledge we gain to individualize your child’s curriculum to focus on his/her needs. “Our mission is big, but it is clear: to change the trajectory of the world, one child at a time”. 

Transition from home to center

Prior to your child’s first day, you will have an opportunity to tour the center, meet with your child’s future peers and teachers, and communicate any anticipated concerns. At this time please share the best communication methods that the teacher may use to reach you, we utilize Brightwheel to communicate.

Transitions

Your child’s transition to and within Little Critters Early Learning Center should be a positive and exciting learning adventure. We will work with you and your child to ensure the smoothest possible transition occurs as new routines and new people are introduced.

Transition from home to center

Prior to your child’s first day, you will have an opportunity to tour the center, meet with your child’s future peers and teachers, and communicate any anticipated concerns. At this time please share the best communication methods that the teacher may use to reach you, we utilize Brightwheel to communicate.

Transition between learning programs

Children are transitioned to the next classroom based on age, developmental readiness, state licensing requirements, and space availability. During the transition, current and future teachers will meet with you to propose a plan to introduce your child into the new program.

Transition to Kindergarten

Transition activities such as reading stories about kindergarten, Visiting Little Critters Early Learning Center’s alumni visit’s to share their experience, creating a “special friends and special times” memory book to keep, will be part of your child’s education at our center. We will provide you with information on local schools, what to expect, and ideas on how to talk to your child about going to elementary school. 

Electronic Media

Our normal daily routine does not include electronic media (television/TV, video, DVD) viewing and computer use. “Virtual field trip” ie. Zoo or the Ocean, we may use a teaching aid and discussion stimulator. All Electronic Media will be screened prior to use and will consist of non-violent and high-quality educational material. Our focus is to provide your child a positive experience with increased understanding of the world.

Multiculturalism

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

Celebrations

Our holiday policy encourages an enhanced understanding of and respect for different cultures and beliefs of children, families, staff and community. These celebrations will be reflective of the families & children in our care. Family contributions of holiday celebrations and customs appreciated.                                                                                                                                                        

Rest Time

Infants sleep according to their own schedule and are put to sleep on their backs. Caregivers/teachers directly observe infants by sight and sound at all times and check on sleeping infants every 5 minutes

Always place your baby on his or her back to sleep, for naps and at night, to reduce the risk of SIDS. Use a firm sleep surface, covered by a fitted sheet, to reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related causes of infant death.

After lunch, all children less than 5 years of age, participate in a quiet rest time. Children are not required to sleep and may be given quiet activities. For children who do not want to rest, a space and time for quiet play will be made available.

Toilet Training

The most important factor in making the toilet learning experience successful and as low-stress as possible is a family/teacher partnership that supports the child. Research indicates that children cannot successfully learn how to use the toilet until they are physically, psychologically, and emotionally ready. Many pediatricians say that most children under 28 months of age are not physically capable of regulating bladder and bowel muscles. Most positive toilet training occurs only after children show signs of physical control or awareness of their bodily functions and when they demonstrate an interest or curiosity in the process. We are committed to working with you to make sure that toilet learning is carried out in a manner that is consistent with your child’s physical and emotional abilities and your family’s concerns. Little Critters policy on beginning on this toilet training journey with the interest of the child and the support of the family. We ask that the family  work at the same time at home with your child to have the highest success.  The Teachers will ask for a few things from the family to begin:

Must be Toilet Training Policy

Each child that enters our Preschool and Pre-K classrooms must be fully potty trained. Our early learning environments are equipped with a restroom right in your child’s classroom for independent use. We encourage children to be independent in removing their pants to use the toilet and to wipe themselves completely. We do encourage them verbally to “aim into the toilet” to “wipe more” to flush when finished and to wash their hands after each use of the toilet.

Guidance

Conflict Resolution

Little Critters Early Learning Center is committed to each student and their family members. However, there are times that conflict will arise and needs to be dealt with in a professional manner.  The policy is; Any issues that a family member has with staff and or another parent ideally will come to the Director’s attention so that she might aid in a fair resolution.  Hearing both sides– problem solving and mediation is LCELC conflict resolution policy.

General Procedure

Little Critters Early Learning Center is committed to each student’s success in learning within a caring, responsive, and safe environment that is free of discrimination, violence, and bullying. Our center works to ensure that all students have the opportunity and support to develop to their fullest potential and share a personal and meaningful bond with people in the school community.

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

Discipline Policy

We have created a discipline policy that reflects our philosophy of positive guidance with children. A copy of the discipline policy is included in your enrollment package for you to review .

Challenging Behavior

Children are guided to treat each other and adults with self-control and kindness.

Each student at Little Critters Early Learning Center has a right to:

When a child becomes verbally or physically aggressive, we intervene immediately to protect all of the children. Our usual approach to helping children with challenging behaviors is to show them how to solve problems using appropriate interactions. When discipline is necessary, it is clear, consistent and understandable to the child. We maintain a zero tolerance to bullying. If you have any concerns about this at any time, please report it to the Director of the Center.

ADA- Equal access to childcare

Currently, children with disabilities are thriving alongside their nondisabled peers in childcare centers across the country that foster inclusion. A child with a disability must never be turned away from a child care center based on assumptions about the severity of the disability or how much assistance they may need. Inclusive programs fulfill the ADA’s promise to ensure equal access to child care programs for all children

Physical Restraint

Physical restraint is not used or permitted for discipline. There are rare instances when we need to ensure a child’s safety or that of others and we may restrain a child by gently holding her or him only for as long as is necessary for control of the situation. If this technique is used, an incident report will be completed the same day,  you will receive a copy and be contacted by Brightwheel and or the phone.

Notification of Behavioral Issues to Families

If a child’s behavior/circumstance is of concern, communication will begin with the parents as the first step to understanding the child’s individual needs and challenges. We will work together to evaluate these needs in the context of our program. We have partnered with the following agencies to provide onsite therapies for children, Guidance for families and TA for staff

On rare occasions, a child’s behavior may warrant the need to find a more suitable setting for care. Examples of such instances include:

Tuition and Fees

Full time weekly rate: $385.00

        Full time weekly rate: $350.00

        Full time weekly rate: $350.00

         

Payment

Payment is always due in advance of care; with no deduction for any absences, holidays, or closures due to inclement weather, power outages, health department recommendation to temporarily close, or other situations beyond our control.                                                                                                                    * Payment is due weekly by 6:00 PM each Friday, as outlined in the Enrollment Agreement.                                                        85Fees are subject to change.

Late Payment Charges

Late payments can pose serious problems for our programs. Therefore we have put procedures in place to reduce their impact.

If payment is not received on the day that it is due, a late fee of $5.00 will be added to your next tuition payment for each day that it is late. If your account has not been paid in full within 5 business days, your child may be discharged from the program.

Any payments made will be applied to the oldest charges and late fees may still apply if the account is not paid in full by the next tuition due date.

If payment is more than ten business days past due, we may attempt to recover payment in small claims court and/or your account may be sent to a 3rd party collections agency. You will be responsible for all expenses associated with these actions including all court and attorney fees. As well as a hold being placed on your childcare authorization with ODJFS; if applicable.

Rejected Transaction Charges

All rejected ACH (automatic debits) or credit card transactions will be charged a fee of $35.00. This charge may be collected electronically. Two or more returned checks or rejected transactions will result in your account being placed on “cash only” status.

Late Drop off - Pick-up Fees

Late drop off after 9:30 am will not be permitted. Late  pick-up; passing contracted time for pickup, is not a normal program option and will be considered “late with a fee”. Late fees of $5.00 per minute will be assessed beginning at your child's contracted hour of pick up and will be due upon arrival the very next day of care provided. 

Special Activity Fees

From time-to-time there will be additional fees associated with special activities or field trips. These fees are due prior to the event or activity. We will communicate these fees through our family communication app; Brightwheel.

Family Vacation Time

Credits & No Credits

Attendance & Withdrawal

Absence

If your child is going to be absent or arrive after 9:00 AM, You must send a message through Brightwheel to your child’s Teacher giving the reason for the absence. We will be concerned about your child if we do not hear from you.

Vacation

While we recognize the value of family vacations, the center does not provide credit for vacation days.

Withdrawal

A written notice, two weeks in advance, is required by the center when a child is being withdrawn.  Family failure to notify, two weeks in advance, will result in forfeiture of your two-week deposit.

Transfer of Records

Whether transitioning to the next age classroom, your child’s records will be transferred internally with notification to you in advance.

If your child is transitioning to a new school, a written request from you with instructions to where the records should be sent is required.

Closing Due to Extreme Weather

Should severe weather or other conditions (i.e., snow, storms, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, blizzards, loss of power, loss of water) prevent us from opening on time or at all, notification to the families will be announced on Brightwheel.

If it becomes necessary to close early, we will contact you or your emergency contacts as soon as possible and announce through Our Brightwheel App. Your child’s early pick-up is your responsibility to arrange.

General Procedure

We open at 7:30 AM. Please do not drop-off your child prior to the opening. Parents are expected to accompany their children to their child’s classroom door, Swipe them in on the QR posted on each classroom door , wait with them until the Teacher signs him/her into Brightwheel then do a health check on your child before the child can enter the classroom before you leave, ALL families must adhere to their contracted times for the sake of ratio.

We close at 5:30 PM. Please allow enough time to arrive, gather your child’s belongings, swipe your child out, ask any and all questions/concerns you may have and exit by closing time 5:30 pm.

Cell Phone Usage

The times you spend in the center dropping off and picking up your child are the primary windows of time we have to communicate with you about your child. In order to make the best use of these opportunities, as well as to be attentive to your child and other children, we ask that you NOT use your cell phone at any time while visiting the center or while in our parking lot; to prevent car accidents.

Authorized & Unauthorized Pick-up

Your child will only be released to you or those persons you have listed as Emergency and Release Contacts/ Brightwheel. If you want a person who is “not identified” as an Emergency and Release Contact to pick-up your child, you must notify the office in advance, in writing. Your child will not be released without prior written authorization via Brightwheel: you can add additional people through your Brightwheel profile. The person picking up your child will be required to show a picture ID as verification.

  1. Please notify your pick-up person of our policy.

  1. In order to safeguard your child, we will need copies of any court ordered custody agreements. Without a custody agreement, we are not able to prevent the release of your child to a parent.

  1. If a child has not been picked up after closing; 5:30 pm, and we have not heard from you, attempts will be made to contact you, and the contacts listed as Emergency and Release Contacts. Provisions will be made for someone to stay with your child for as long as possible, but if after closing time of 5:30pm; and we have not been able to reach you or a person listed as an Emergency and Release Contact, we will call the local child protective services agency.

Right to Refuse Child Release

We may refuse to release children if we have reasonable cause to suspect that any person picking up a child is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or is physically or emotionally impaired in any way that may endanger the child. To protect your child, we may request that another adult listed as an Emergency and Release Contact pick-up the child or we may call the police to prevent potential harm to your child. Recurring situations may result in the release of your child from the program for safety reasons.

Personal Belongings

Child’s Supplies

Infants:

Toddlers:

Potty Trainers { Toddler classroom @ 30 months old}

Preschool & Pre - K

Please label all items brought from home with your child’s name (i.e., clothes, bottles, diapers, pacifiers, blanket, etc.) to prevent items from becoming misplaced or lost. We are not responsible for lost or damaged items. Soiled clothing will be sent home on an as-needed basis for laundering and need to be returned to the center.

Cubbies

Upon enrollment each child will be assigned a “cubby and coat hook.”  Cubbies are labeled with your child’s name. Please ASK your child’s Teacher for your child’s cubby item’s on a daily basis for items that need to be taken home.

Lost & Found

If items are found, a photo of said item will be posted on Brightwheel for identification.                                                    Please note that we are not responsible for lost personal property.

Toys etc from Home

We request that you do not allow your child to bring personal toys/personal blankets etc from home

Little Critters Early Learning Center’s Policy regarding items from home: Items from home are only to enter our facility in a zip lock bag such as extra clothes.  No “Back & Forth '' items will be permitted!!    

Nutrition

NO Outside Food Policy

Our policy is; Do not bring ANY food from outside into our center, This includes food from home and restaurants. Do to allergies etc; We provide ALL nutritious meals and snacks and can monitor better Exceptions are: Birthday celebrations. We follow the “Ohio Healthy Program” guidelines: Store bought and in original packaging; healthy choices only!!!    {details on page 29 of this handbook}

Food Prepared

Food prepared in Little Critters Early Learning Center will be properly planned, prepared and portioned according to the Child and Adult Care Food Program that Little Critters Early Learning Center is a sponsor (http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/care/) and the state requirements for food service. Our Cook / Office staff, have all required food safety training and our Kitchen is approved for food service and inspected regularly.

Meal Times

BREAKFAST 9:00 AM                LUNCH 12:00 PM              SNACK  3:00 PM

                                                 

Food Allergies

If your child has a food allergy, you must notify us in writing so that we can make appropriate substitutions. The written notification should list appropriate food substitutions and must be updated at least annually.

Food allergies can be life threatening and each child with a food allergy should have an action plan for emergency care completed by the family physician.

Meal Time Safety

At meal time the dining table is set with cups, bowls, plates, flatware & napkins. Everyone sits at the same table.Excluding younger infants- they use high chairs. Good table manners are modeled and encouraged. Weekly menus are posted for viewing by parents/caregivers.

Children 24 Months and Older

Infant Feedings

Infant feedings follow these procedures:

Diaper Changes

Health

Immunizations

Immunizations are required according to the current schedule recommended by the U.S. Public Health Services and the American Academy of Pediatrics, www.aap.org. Every January, we check with the public health department or the American Academy of Pediatrics for updates of the recommended immunization schedule.  Little Critters Early Learning Center’s position on this matter is as follows: We require that all children that attend our facilities are up to date on all recommended immunizations for their age, and a copy of an immunization record be provided to Little Critters ELC minimally 24 hours BEFORE child start date.

Physicals

Routine annual physicals are required according to the current recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics, www.aap.org. A copy of your child’s physical should be received before your child begins the program. Families are responsible for ensuring that their child’s physicals are kept up-to-date and that a copy of the results of the child’s health assessment is given to the program.

ILLNESS   - LCELC follows the most updated protocol for COVID

We understand that it is difficult for a family member to leave or miss work, but to protect other children and staff; you may not bring a sick child to the center. The center has the right to refuse a child who appears ill. You will be called and asked to retrieve your child if your child exhibits any of the following symptoms. This is not an all-inclusive list. We will try to keep your child comfortable but he/she will be excluded from all activities until you arrive.

Children who have been ill may return when:

Allergy Prevention

Families are expected to notify us regarding children’s food and environmental allergies. Families of children with diagnosed allergies are required to provide us with a letter detailing the child’s symptoms, reactions, treatments and care. A list of the children’s allergies will be posted in the main area and kitchen. We are trained to familiarize ourselves and consult the list to avoid the potential of exposing children to substances to which they have known allergies.

Medications

Communicable Diseases

When an enrolled child or an employee of the center has a (suspected) reportable disease, it is our legal responsibility to notify the local Board of Health or Department of Public Health. We will take care to notify families about exposure via Brightwheel and in person so children can receive preventive treatments. Included but not limited to; among the reportable illnesses are the following:

If a child shows signs that are listed on the  most updated version of the “Communicable Diseases Chart”, which is posted at Little Critters Early Learning Center center hallway for ease of access, we follow the guidelines to lessen the spread of such communicable diseases. All staff are trained in Communicable Disease within 90 days of their start date to ensure knowledge is center wide.

Safety

Clothing

Please dress your child in practical clothing that allows for freedom of movement and is appropriate for the weather. Your child will be involved in a variety of activities including: painting, outdoor play, sand, weather, and other sensory activities. Our playground is used as an extension of the center, and daily programs are conducted outside whenever weather permits.

One particular aspect of concern is the risk associated with children’s clothing that may become entangled with climbing or sliding equipment that could lead to choking or other serious harm. All drawstrings from children’s clothes should and will be removed as a precaution.

No Sandals and flip-flops. They are not appropriate for center play and make it difficult for your child to participate in some activities.

No hair beads, hair clips, jewelry in our Infant & Infant 2 classrooms. Once in Toddler classroom and beyond, hair clips & hair beads  must be safely secured to the hair if worn

Extreme Weather and Outdoor Play

We play outdoors daily with the exception of the following conditions if the outside temperature is greater than 90 °F or less than 32 °F degrees. Additionally, outdoor play will be canceled if the air quality rating is 130 or below.

Communal Water-Play

Communal, unsupervised water play is prohibited. Supervised children are permitted to engage in water-play. Precautions: water is changed daily, to ensure that communal water-play does not spread communicable infectious disease. Children wash their hands with soap after water play

Injuries

Safety is a major concern at Little Critters Early Learning Center and so daily safety inspections are completed inside and outside the center area in order to prevent injuries. First aid will be administered by a trained caregiver in the event that your child sustains a minor injury (e.g., scraped knee). You will receive an incident report outlining the incident and course of action taken. If the injury produces any type of swelling or needs medical attention, you will be contacted immediately. Each classroom is equipped with a first aid kit meeting the state regulations.

In the event of a serious medical emergency, the child will be taken to the hospital immediately by ambulance, while we will try to contact you or an emergency contact.

Biting

Biting is a normal stage of development that is common among infants and toddlers – and sometimes even among preschoolers. It is something that most young children will try at least once.

When biting happens, our response will be to care for and help the child who was bitten and to help the biter learn a more appropriate behavior. Our focus will not be on punishment for biting, but on effective behaviors that address the specific reason for biting.

Notes will be written to the family of the child who was bitten and the biter’s family. We will work together with the families of each to keep them informed and to develop strategies for change. A Behavior Management Plan for Biting will be created for children that bite more than 2 times.

Respectful Behavior

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

Smoking

The poisons in secondhand smoke are especially harmful to infants and young children’s developing bodies, therefore the indoor environment is non-smoking at all times. The use of tobacco in any form is prohibited in the center.

Prohibited Substances

The use of alcohol or illegal drugs is prohibited on the center’s premises. Possession of illegal substances or unauthorized potentially toxic substances is prohibited.

Any adult who appears to be inebriated, intoxicated, or otherwise under the influence of mind-altering or polluting substances is required to leave the premises immediately.

Dangerous Weapons

A dangerous weapon is a gun, knife, razor, or any other object, which by the manner it is used or intended to be used, is capable of inflicting bodily harm. Families, children, staff or guests (other than law enforcement officers) possessing a dangerous weapon will not be permitted onto the premises.

Any use of threat regarding “Dangerous weapons” will not be tolerated at Little Critters Early Learning Center.  Cause for immediate expulsion: Voids contract.

In cases that clearly involve a gun, or any other weapon on our premises, the police will be called and the individual(s) involved will be immediately removed from the premises. This policy applies to visible or concealed weapons.

Child Custody

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

Suspected Child Abuse

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

Emergencies

Lost or Missing Child

In the unlikely event that a child becomes lost or separated from a group, all available staff will search for the child. If the child is not located within 5 minutes, the family and the police will be notified.

Fire Safety

Our center is fully equipped with a Fire alarm system, rolling cribs, fire pulls at each exterior door, fire extinguishers at each exterior door, Ansel system above stove in kitchen, yearly fire equipment inspections and Fire Marshal inspection as well as monthly fire drills.

Our fire evacuation plan is reviewed with the children and staff on a monthly basis.

Emergency Transportation

In the event your child needs to be transported due to a medical emergency, if no other authorized person can be contacted and the need for transportation is essential, an ambulance will be called for transportation. A proper escort will accompany and remain with the child until a family member or emergency contact arrives. If you are NOT in agreement with this policy Little Critters ELC cannot provide care for your child with good conscience.

Family Activities / Volunteer hours

We offer a variety of ways for families to participate in the growth and improvement of our program. We encourage families to take an active role

 Family Action Team Members

   

Family Events:  We have several events throughout the year that bring our entire community together.                     See Brightwheel Calendar for annual events

             

Classroom Activities: Enjoy and help your child’s class with these special activities.

   

Family/Parent Workshops: Our menu of family workshops changes annually. Below is a list of some of the workshops we have offered. We try to offer these in the early evening. See the monthly calendar for scheduled topics. We welcome requests for workshop topics. (as of 10/2021) Ready Rosie family workshops and activities will be posted & available from your child’s classroom Brightwheel

COVID-19

The pandemic has caused many changes in all of our lives and as we work through all of them we ask that each of you do your part, whatever that may be.  We promise to continue providing the very best care and life preparation for your child; that is within our abilities while respecting the limitations that have been placed on us during these times.  Our staff is dedicated to staying healthy by following the CDC / CDPH guidelines as well as adhering to our Governors orders.  We are continuing to clean and sanitize all areas your child comes in contact with , we are providing as many individual items for your child so sharing is at a minimum. Please help us all stay healthy, take care of yourself and remember you are strong!  

If someone in your household has come in contact with a covid positive person we ask that you and your family notify LCELC and  follow the CDPH recommendations;

What to do post COVID-19 Exposure in our Center Policy

If your child has any symptoms of Covid-19, please contact your medical provider and stay home.  More information on the symptoms of Covid-19 can be found at coronavirus.ohio.gov or on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website www.cd.gov

 

Ohio Healthy Program NEW policies

   

Little Critters Healthy Celebrations policies :  

  1. Celebration foods must be a healthy option, such as:

Items like cake, cookies, chips, candy, juice/kool aid etc are no longer allowable celebration items. This policy is to ensure that the children in our care are celebrating in a healthy way. Please feel free to celebrate with non food items, such as decorative plates and napkins, and planning physical activity games to play with the children in lieu of food items.

  1. Little Critters ELC staff does NOT offer food to:

  1. Little Critters ELC staff does NOT use physical activity as a:

  1. Little Critters ELC’s Screen time policy:
  1. Little Critters ELC encourages breastfeeding and pumping by offering a comfy seating and atmosphere right inside our infant classroom for all of our breastfeeding Mothers

JULY 2023 - newest OHP policies

  1. Encouraging Breastfeeding literature is placed in each new infant / toddler intake packet , Posters have been posted regarding the benefits to breastfeeding

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by:

  1. mail:
    U.S. Department of Agriculture
    Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
    1400 Independence Avenue, SW
    Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or
  2. fax:
    (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or
  3. email:
    Program.Intake@usda.gov

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Thank you for choosing Little Critters Early Learning Center for your little one’s