Apples Academy
"Always learning, always growing with F.U.N."
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THANKS FOR STOPPING BY! Feel free to checkout my handbook and email me any questions at amyprochask@hotmail.
Apples Academy is a home-based / state licensed child care whose attention and efforts focus on providing children with a safe and enjoyable environment where they can play and thrive while preparing for the years to come. As the child care provider, I want do my best to provide each child the experience that will help them to develop physically, socially, emotionally and cognitively. I ask that you come to me immediately with any concerns you have with your child and/or their care. It is imperative we work together for your child. It is important to me that each child gets the care they deserve. In doing so, I will abide by all state laws which may be discussed at any time.
Hours of operation:
7:30 am – 5:30 pm ~ Monday-Friday
Child Care Schedule / Services:
Parents’ Provide
Diapers
A full change of clothing
Proper clothing for current climate
May require specialty foods
Medication
Please have your child clean and ready to play
Clean skin, hair, clothes
Apples Academy Provides
Wipes
Food/Beverages/up&up infant formula
Bottles/Cups
Activity Supplies
Toys
**Toys brought from home will be shared with the
daycare children; if sharing is an issue, please
keep personal toys at home. Personal items not in
play are to be stored in tubs.
**Toys larger than the length of a toilet paper
roll is to be kept at home.
**Items small enough to fit in a toilet paper
roll is asked to be kept at home. (391 NAC 1-
006.15A)
**Aggressive play toys (ie guns, swords, etc) are
not to be brought to daycare.
**NO ELECTRONICS can be brought to daycare.
Blankets/Sheets
**Blankets/sheets brought from home will be
encouraged to be used at nap time only
**All blankets/sheets are stored in cubbies or
plastic baggies
Schedules: I understand that things will change, but as a courtesy I expect schedules on FRIDAY for the upcoming daycare weeks. These are used to plan our meals/menus and our busy days. With two children in school, these schedules influence my own in getting my children to school and all of our appointments. Please see Safety Fee.
Payment:
Payments are due every Monday according to the following payment plans. Please also refer to Fees section. Child care subsidy fees under $100 are due the first of every month; over $100 are planned weekly on contract.
Rates:
Full Time 7:30 am until 5:30 pm – Monday-Friday
$110 per week per infant (6 wks -12 mo)
$100 per week per toddlers (12 mo - 5 years)
$ 85 per week per school ager (6 yrs+ or first days of kindergarten)**
Regular ½-day (Mon-Fri and no more than 5 hours per day)
-or-
Partial Week (less than 4 days or up to 25 hours per week)
$85 per week for any age
$3 per addition hour or $10 for extra half day(s)
Drop-in - This is a day-to-day basis, only if there is an open spot.
$25 per day per infant (6 wks -12 mo)
$20 per day per toddler/ school-ager (12 mo –
school)
**Payment is due the day of care and before care
is given
After School Care (3:05-5:30)
$8 per day or $30 per week
$10 per day for early dismissal
**An average $45 dollars per week year round
Extra hours for ANY rate is $3 per hour during operating hours; this applies to child care subsidy plans.
Please make checks out to Apples Academy
Fees
**Late Pick-up Fee: Operating hours for Apples Academy are from 7:30 am until 5:30pm as stated on the state license. According to each child’s schedule, I will call whenever a child is at most 15 minutes late (see Safety Fee). Please make sure dependable arrangements are made to pick up your child on time. If no arrangements are made, a fee of $1.00 per minute is charged when an adult is late picking up a child with no agreement or contact. This will be due on the following Monday with weekly fee. If a child is ill and needs to be picked up, late charges will double after 30 minutes of call or responded text being placed.***
**Safety Fee: We sometimes must work around a child’s schedule to plan our daily activities. The fee for this is $5 for each time I have to call/text. This applies to not bringing schedules on Friday causing me to call Monday morning.
**Returned checks: All fees for returned checks will be the responsibility of the parent(s)/ guardians.
**Late Payments: If payment is not received, a $10 late fee will be added. If this becomes an issue, or arrangement is not made the following week, families may lose child care services until a solution made.
**Copy Fee: For every form reprinted for families, there is a $1.00 fee per page.
Summary: In addition to the weekly payments, additional charges/ fees may be added for late pick-ups ($1/ min or $2/min for illness), no-show ($5), returned checks (all fees), and late payments ($10). If payments/fees are not paid, child care services may be terminated. See Emergency section for further charges.
TAXES/Flex plans: A yearly statement will be prepared and given to families for tax purposes as long as all payments/fees have been received. For flex plan families, it is their responsibility up front to let me know in advance so I can record the proper information needed for their plans.
Free Absences or time-out of day care:
If a child(ren) is going to be out for any reason, please let me know as soon as possible. Payments pay for the opportunity to use child care upon the agreed time/days/rates, therefore families are charged for the day/week whether you are in attendance or not. However after a preliminary 4-week period, and families are in good standings as far as payments and following our daycare regulations, each child will receive one or more free absences to be used at parents’/ guardians’ discretion. These are prorated for the year and good until December 31. I have the right to determine the prorated days. Families will get 5 new, free days/absences as of Jan 1 of each year. Families will lose them if not used each year. After using up free absences, each child will be charged for any missed days from daycare. This does not apply to parents using specific days for child care unless the family will be using a free absence ON the day they have agreed to use. These part-time/ day specific plan may come with prorated free absences as well. Families may not use them for days the child(ren) misses without notice as state in the Safety Fee.
Family Maternity Leave
If a family has a baby, I still require payment to keep their spot/opportunity to use daycare when needed. This is an all-or-none agreement in that they may choose to bring their older child(ren) to daycare (during usual times or drop-in as needed) and pay their weekly rate OR they may keep them at home for half of their weekly rate. Summary: If a child(ren) child comes at all, I will charge their full rate; if families choose to keep a child(ren) home, I will charge half their rate to hold your spot. I would like to know the families plan before the baby is born. Please note, when anyone becomes pregnant, I have the right to decide how/if I will make room for the newborn.
My Time Off:
I am closed major legal holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day - If a holiday like Christmas falls on a Thursday, as does Thanksgiving, I may also be closed the following Friday. Families will be notified 1 week in advanced and NOT charged for my additional holiday absence(s).
I plan to take one week of vacation and plan for at least 3 personal days during the year. Again families will be notified (ideally one week in advance) for my personal days/ vacation and will not be charged for my absence. If I or my children should become ill, families will not be charged for the full amount for that day. Families will be notified as soon as I know. Please have back-up providers lined up in case of an illness or my personal vacation. I will do my best to keep families informed of other providers that have openings. (refer to the Kearney Child Care Association website: http://kearneycca.tripod.com/ and click on “Home Daycare Openings”).
To clarify, families will not be charged for any days Apples Academy is closed. I have qualified / state approved substitutes (391 NAC 1-006.02B) to fill in if I or my family needs me (i.e. doctor appts., school meeting, etc.).
Feedings:
Apple Academy will provide food and drinks for all children. Breakfast is served at 8:30 a.m. every morning; lunch will be served at 11:00 am for infants and 12:00 pm for those older each day; snack time may vary but planned at 3:30 pm each day. If a child might miss one of these serving times, or is not in attendance BY serving time, families will be responsible for feeding their child(ren) BEFORE bringing them to daycare. Families need to finish this before coming in to daycare. Outside food will not be tolerated as we all eat the same food together as approved by the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program. These guidelines are available at any time. If you’d like to provide food approved by the food program, it be discussed in before plans are made.
Cups/bottles from home are fine, but I prefer not giving sippie cups to children over the age to two. If a cup is brought, it may only contain water or milk/formula. Bottles must have name on them.
Every child will be given the same meal unless a special diet is required for health reasons. I ask that all special diets be promptly discussed with me and written out if necessary. I may require each special diet to follow the USDA guidelines as state by the Child and Adult Care Food Program unless a doctor’s note is presented for medical reasons. Please plan to bring your child’s special diet meals.
Infants Feeding: By state law, infant feeding schedules must be written out and signed by a parent. This includes times and amounts. I will try to follow this schedule in conjunction with all the children’s schedule. It is also a state law bottles must be labels with child’s name and breastmilk labeled with date, time expressed and amount.
Quiet Times / Rest Times (Naps)
Infants/toddlers/school-agers will have their own personal sleep space. Infants (under 12 mos) may ONLY sleep in pack and plays or approved cribs with only one blanket that can be tucked under the mattress and cannot be pulled higher than their chest (391 NAC 1-006.15B). Toddlers will sleep on washable mats; school agers can rest on the floor or couches (assuming they show good hygiene). Each child will have their own sheet/blanket for nap time only; they will be washed on a weekly basis.
All children will be required to lie down for a nap/quiet time each day. I will not force your child to sleep but they must lie down quietly. School-agers can rest and then have the choice of looking at books or table work during this time. This ensures a quiet environment for resting.
I ask that all drop-offs and pick-ups are done before 1:00pm and after 3:00pm out of respect for the children’s rest time.
Outdoor play:
**Children are taken out as often as comfortable weather and scheduling allow. Comfortable/safe temperatures are posted by the front door. Families are asked to bring weather appropriate clothing for outdoor play in both hot and cold seasons. Sunscreen will be applied unless stated otherwise on the Health Form.
**We plan to take walks every day we can which means you must sign the off-premises permission form (391 NAC 1-006.12B)
**Children over two may plan in the fenced in area IF an adult can easily see them. Children will not be playing out of the fence area without an Apples Academy adult although the law allows this for children over four years old. Children are not allowed to be off the premises without an Apples Academy approved adult. (391 NAC 1-.006.12)
**Children may wade/play in shallow kiddie pool or tubs no taller than kiddie pools, under supervision by an Apples Academy Adult, that are drained daily and sanitized. (391 NAC 1-006.18B)
Discipline:
My goal is to aim for independent problem solvers.
I maintain certain rules in my daycare:
**no running inside,
**no foul language,
**no jumping or climbing on furniture,
**no verbal/physical bullying
How I communicate with the children:
**Please use walking feet,
**We use kind words
**We sit down or get down
**We touch our friends nice; hands are for
hugging/high-fiving – not hitting
Children will be redirect or asked to make a choice/ solve their problem during a conflict with my guidance and modeled behavior. They will help solve their problem or be asked to sit and watch children playing ‘nicely and safely’ during times in which I cannot shadow tougher conflict periods.
Hygiene
I will do my best to maintain cleanliness and appropriate hygiene standards. Children's hands are washed before and/or after meals, coming in from outside and after toileting. Children and providers must wash hands during the regular times for the 20 seconds with soap and warm running water. 391 NAC 1-006.20 F). They will be encouraged to keep their hands/fingers out of their eyes, nose, and mouth. I will also ask that coats/jackets and shoes are left in the entry way. Baby toys and toddler toys are stored separately for sanitary reasons. Please have your child bathed and dressed for play. Nails that are too long or full of dirt will be clipped as a health and safety matter. Lotion may be applied to dry or cracking skin unless noted otherwise on “General Health Form.”
A clean child is a healthier and happier child
Diapers and Toilet Training
**There are not requirements for toilet training as each child is different. Please see or ask for a copy of Apples Academy philosophies on toilet training.
**Diaper changing (391 NAC 1-006.16A):
>diapers are checked on a frequent and regular basis
(by 10, 12, 3 and 5 o’clock)
>wet and/or soiled diapers are changed immediately
>individual washcloths or disposable towelettes are
used
>wet and/or soiled diapers are properly stored and
disposed
>diaper-changing surfaces are cleaned after each use
by sanitizing the surface or changing the diaper
pad/disposable sheeting
>proper hand washing is done after each diaper
change
Health Form:
Separate form to list allergies and treatments as well as other health related concerns. This is found in
THIS MUST BE SIGNED AND DATED BY THE PARENT/GUARDIAN. 391 NAC 1-006.06)
Immunization:
Families must provide documentation of their child(ren)’s immunization as soon as possible and all of them must be current for their age unless I have a written family philosophy or note from their physician stating otherwise (state law). Each year, families will be asked to update these records for the state. By state law, families have 30 days to complete this paperwork from the time of enrollment in my daycare. (3891 NAC 1-006.11)
Illness and Exclusion (391 NAC 1-006):
**I will not take sick or contagious children (see below). If a child shows up with these signs, they will be asked to leave or picked up ASAP. A child(ren) may be contagious or sick the day before they show signs of any illness or infection, so I will rely on families to use good judgment in bringing their child to daycare. If their child(ren) become sick during the day, they will be expected to pick them up within 30 minutes of being notified. After 30 minutes, late charges will apply.*** I understand and respect the need to be at work, but cooperation is extremely important on this. (see termination clarification)
**HEALTHY children with sick parents/siblings can to attend daycare, however, I ask that families keep the healthy child away from illness and give them a change of clothes to avoid bringing the illness here.
**Child(ren) may be brought to care if they have a common cold (which means a slight cough, runny nose, sneezing); however I will call if the child is upset (whining, crying, repeatedly asking for their family) or cannot participate in our daily activities (i.e. a child wanting to sleep all day, laying down constantly, barking cough without doctor’s note, etc.)
**I “must notify parents of all enrolled children of any case of any reportable / communicable disease on the same day the licensee is informed of or observes the illness…” I may be required to report such illnesses to the health authority and “post the outbreak in a conspicuous place”
Standard regulations prohibit the admittance of any child into a family childcare home that exhibits any of the following symptoms:
**Fever (100°f or higher) – child needs to be fever free for 24 hours without the aid of medication; I can and may require a child(ren) to have a doctor’s note to attend.
**Diarrhea (applesauce or water consistency or uncontrollable/uncontainable) – child must be symptom free for 24 hours and on normal diet. I will send home uncontrollable/uncontainable instantly; the American Academy of Pediatrics says only more than 2 loose stools in a day is enough for exclusion to occur.
**Vomiting – child must be symptom free for 24 hours and on normal diet BEFORE attending; I will not tolerate vomiting and child may be sent home immediately
**Rash – check with doctor prior to daycare; bring doctor note
**Lice – child needs to be treated and nits removed before returning; doctor note preferred
**Communicable diseases – measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis (whooping cough), etc. ~ must be reported to state officials and provider must report to all families in child care(391 NAC 1-006.09A).
**Persistent runny nose with colored and/or thick discharge for more than a 10 days or accompanies other symptoms –check with a doctor with a note before returning
**Discharge from eyes or ears – check with doctor prior to daycare; bring doctor note
I have several sheets on illnesses containing causes, symptoms, how they spread, incubation periods, contagious periods and exclusion periods on hand or will copy for my families. Illnesses have contagious periods that need to be discussed when seeing the doctor, noted above, or discussed with me before returning. The child may return when the contagious period is passed and the child is well enough to resume normal childcare activities. I would like a doctor’s note in regards to returning to daycare at each doctors visit for illness. I may provide a physician’s evaluation form to be completed by a doctor before returning.
Health Checks
I suggest health checks be performed before/after child care as I will try during the day. Please let me know of any marks or rashes on the child(ren)’s body. Signs of illness or injuries here will be cared for and reported to parents at pick up unless emergency. Please refer to “illness and exclusion” for policies on rashes. All families are required to fill out health forms (state law), that includes markings or injuries that could affect a child’s day at daycare.
In the case of an emergency
**I will attempt to notify a child’s parent(s) and emergency contacts first. If no one can be notified, a 911 may be used. All charges due to the emergency are the responsibility of the parents/ guardians.
**I ask that families keep me up to date with any and all changes to emergency contact information. Emergency forms must be filled out prior to child care services.
**We will practice fire and/or evacuation drills every month (391 NAC 1-006.23C & D). Routes are posted on the back of the door and parents are notified ASAP.
**Tornado drill are done 4 times from March to September; our safe place in the basement. ( 391 NAC 1-006.23B)
**State approved First Aid kits are kept on premises, taken on walks and in vehicles during the transportation of children. (391 NAC 1-006.23F)
Medication:
No medication will be administered without consent (signing medication form) and notation of medication as well as amounts and times to be administered (391 NAC 1.006.20). This information as well as the child’s name should be posted on the medication’s original label or pharmacy label. If the medication to be given exceeds age or weight, I need a doctor’s note. Please do not leave medication in the diaper bag or on the counters/ ledges. Make sure I get it. All medication must be kept and stored in a box or cabinet under lock and key (state law).
Medicine is given by the 5 RIGHTS:
RIGHT child;RIGHT med;RIGHT time; RIGHT amount;RIGHT rte
Child Abuse and Neglect
By law and personal ethics, every Nebraska adult should report any signs of abuse or neglect.
Abuse is defined in three ways (according to Nebraska DHHS)
1. Physical abuse exists when a child has an non-accidental injury.
2. Emotional abuse exists when parents always put blame on a child or always reject the child.
3. Sexual abuse exists when an adult uses a child as a part of any type of sexual act.
Neglect is defined in two ways.
1. Emotional neglect is when the child suffers from the parent's not giving them chances for feeling loved, wanted, secure, and worthy.
2. Physical neglect is when a parent does not provide basic needs or a safe place to live. Examples are:
a. not having enough food or clothing;
b. not following doctor's orders;
c. not providing the supervision needed to keep the child safe;
d. not having heat in the winter.
Pick-ups, drop-offs
**I want to know upfront, who will be responsible for picking up children from my daycare and what times. These people should be listed with their contact information in each child’s file. Please have prior arrangements in writing and a verbal description of adult – let them know I may ask for ID. Please phone sudden changes in pick-up persons or I may not allow child to leave without a legal guardian/ parent.
**I cannot legally refrain from allowing any parent to pick up their child(ren); I must have current, legal papers to do anything different. If papers are not followed, I will take legal action or terminate services.
**It is the families’ responsibility to inform their child(ren)’s drop-off or pick-up persons of these policies stated in this handbook. They are to abide by them as would daycare families; this includes early/late charges.
**391 NAC 1-006.12C – “If a child participates in activities that are not provided by the licensee and are outside the child care premises, the licensee must obtain written permission from the parents.”
**As a child advocate I require all children must have height/weight appropriate safety seats in the vehicles. This includes pick-ups by parents and non-parents.
Prohibited Substances
All forms of smoking and the drinking of alcoholic beverages is strictly forbidden on the child care premises by parents and providers. (391 NAC 1-006.25B)
Open Door Policy
I plan to leave my door open for any daycare parents to freely enter during my operation hours. If I feel safety is a concern, I will lock all doors to my house. I will also lock up my house during neighborhood walks or walking field trips. I ask that families check in with me at drop/off and pick up times as a safety measure. This ensures a child(ren) is in the proper place with proper supervision. No child will be allowed to come in by themselves or leave without adult supervision. Children are not allowed to open the doors unless requested by a parenting needing help (i.e. a parent’s arms are full) and are asked by the parent or current provider.
The Website
I plan to maintain a website for Apple Academy; this is currently found at http://apples-academy.webstarts.com. Here families may find important information such as openings, schedules, contact information with the current handbook/contract, and links for parents and children.
Ending Care
Families are expected to give me a two-week notice to end child care services. They will be charged for the two week after notice even if the family does not show up for care (see termination clarification).
Termination Clarification
Termination may occur when there is a:
Failure to comply with the handbook/contract.
Destructive or hurtful behavior of child that persists even with parent cooperation in stopping the behavior.
Non-Payment of childcare fees or late and/or recurring late payment of fees unless during two-week notice which must be paid unless stated otherwise by Apples Academy
Failure to show up for 2 days in a row without any communication; police may be contacted; DHHS WILL be notified for families with state assistance.
Failure to complete required forms on time.
Blatant disrespect towards provider or provider’s family or another daycare family
If families knowingly bring their child ill.
Incompatibility with child and/or our daycare environment
CONTRACT REVISED FEBRUARY 2014
Apples Academy is a home-based / state licensed child care whose attention and efforts focus on providing children with a safe and enjoyable environment where they can play and thrive while preparing for the years to come. As the child care provider, I want do my best to provide each child the experience that will help them to develop physically, socially, emotionally and cognitively. I ask that you come to me immediately with any concerns you have with your child and/or their care. It is imperative we work together for your child. It is important to me that each child gets the care they deserve. In doing so, I will abide by all state laws which may be discussed at any time.
Hours of operation:
7:30 am – 5:30 pm ~ Monday-Friday
Child Care Schedule / Services:
Parents’ Provide
Diapers
A full change of clothing
Proper clothing for current climate
May require specialty foods
Medication
Please have your child clean and ready to play
Clean skin, hair, clothes
Apples Academy Provides
Wipes
Food/Beverages/up&up infant formula
Bottles/Cups
Activity Supplies
Toys
**Toys brought from home will be shared with the
daycare children; if sharing is an issue, please
keep personal toys at home. Personal items not in
play are to be stored in tubs.
**Toys larger than the length of a toilet paper
roll is to be kept at home.
**Items small enough to fit in a toilet paper
roll is asked to be kept at home. (391 NAC 1-
006.15A)
**Aggressive play toys (ie guns, swords, etc) are
not to be brought to daycare.
**NO ELECTRONICS can be brought to daycare.
Blankets/Sheets
**Blankets/sheets brought from home will be
encouraged to be used at nap time only
**All blankets/sheets are stored in cubbies or
plastic baggies
Schedules: I understand that things will change, but as a courtesy I expect schedules on FRIDAY for the upcoming daycare weeks. These are used to plan our meals/menus and our busy days. With two children in school, these schedules influence my own in getting my children to school and all of our appointments. Please see Safety Fee.
Payment:
Payments are due every Monday according to the following payment plans. Please also refer to Fees section. Child care subsidy fees under $100 are due the first of every month; over $100 are planned weekly on contract.
Rates:
Full Time 7:30 am until 5:30 pm – Monday-Friday
$110 per week per infant (6 wks -12 mo)
$100 per week per toddlers (12 mo - 5 years)
$ 85 per week per school ager (6 yrs+ or first days of kindergarten)**
Regular ½-day (Mon-Fri and no more than 5 hours per day)
-or-
Partial Week (less than 4 days or up to 25 hours per week)
$85 per week for any age
$3 per addition hour or $10 for extra half day(s)
Drop-in - This is a day-to-day basis, only if there is an open spot.
$25 per day per infant (6 wks -12 mo)
$20 per day per toddler/ school-ager (12 mo –
school)
**Payment is due the day of care and before care
is given
After School Care (3:05-5:30)
$8 per day or $30 per week
$10 per day for early dismissal
**An average $45 dollars per week year round
Extra hours for ANY rate is $3 per hour during operating hours; this applies to child care subsidy plans.
Please make checks out to Apples Academy
Fees
**Late Pick-up Fee: Operating hours for Apples Academy are from 7:30 am until 5:30pm as stated on the state license. According to each child’s schedule, I will call whenever a child is at most 15 minutes late (see Safety Fee). Please make sure dependable arrangements are made to pick up your child on time. If no arrangements are made, a fee of $1.00 per minute is charged when an adult is late picking up a child with no agreement or contact. This will be due on the following Monday with weekly fee. If a child is ill and needs to be picked up, late charges will double after 30 minutes of call or responded text being placed.***
**Safety Fee: We sometimes must work around a child’s schedule to plan our daily activities. The fee for this is $5 for each time I have to call/text. This applies to not bringing schedules on Friday causing me to call Monday morning.
**Returned checks: All fees for returned checks will be the responsibility of the parent(s)/ guardians.
**Late Payments: If payment is not received, a $10 late fee will be added. If this becomes an issue, or arrangement is not made the following week, families may lose child care services until a solution made.
**Copy Fee: For every form reprinted for families, there is a $1.00 fee per page.
Summary: In addition to the weekly payments, additional charges/ fees may be added for late pick-ups ($1/ min or $2/min for illness), no-show ($5), returned checks (all fees), and late payments ($10). If payments/fees are not paid, child care services may be terminated. See Emergency section for further charges.
TAXES/Flex plans: A yearly statement will be prepared and given to families for tax purposes as long as all payments/fees have been received. For flex plan families, it is their responsibility up front to let me know in advance so I can record the proper information needed for their plans.
Free Absences or time-out of day care:
If a child(ren) is going to be out for any reason, please let me know as soon as possible. Payments pay for the opportunity to use child care upon the agreed time/days/rates, therefore families are charged for the day/week whether you are in attendance or not. However after a preliminary 4-week period, and families are in good standings as far as payments and following our daycare regulations, each child will receive one or more free absences to be used at parents’/ guardians’ discretion. These are prorated for the year and good until December 31. I have the right to determine the prorated days. Families will get 5 new, free days/absences as of Jan 1 of each year. Families will lose them if not used each year. After using up free absences, each child will be charged for any missed days from daycare. This does not apply to parents using specific days for child care unless the family will be using a free absence ON the day they have agreed to use. These part-time/ day specific plan may come with prorated free absences as well. Families may not use them for days the child(ren) misses without notice as state in the Safety Fee.
Family Maternity Leave
If a family has a baby, I still require payment to keep their spot/opportunity to use daycare when needed. This is an all-or-none agreement in that they may choose to bring their older child(ren) to daycare (during usual times or drop-in as needed) and pay their weekly rate OR they may keep them at home for half of their weekly rate. Summary: If a child(ren) child comes at all, I will charge their full rate; if families choose to keep a child(ren) home, I will charge half their rate to hold your spot. I would like to know the families plan before the baby is born. Please note, when anyone becomes pregnant, I have the right to decide how/if I will make room for the newborn.
My Time Off:
I am closed major legal holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day - If a holiday like Christmas falls on a Thursday, as does Thanksgiving, I may also be closed the following Friday. Families will be notified 1 week in advanced and NOT charged for my additional holiday absence(s).
I plan to take one week of vacation and plan for at least 3 personal days during the year. Again families will be notified (ideally one week in advance) for my personal days/ vacation and will not be charged for my absence. If I or my children should become ill, families will not be charged for the full amount for that day. Families will be notified as soon as I know. Please have back-up providers lined up in case of an illness or my personal vacation. I will do my best to keep families informed of other providers that have openings. (refer to the Kearney Child Care Association website: http://kearneycca.tripod.com/ and click on “Home Daycare Openings”).
To clarify, families will not be charged for any days Apples Academy is closed. I have qualified / state approved substitutes (391 NAC 1-006.02B) to fill in if I or my family needs me (i.e. doctor appts., school meeting, etc.).
Feedings:
Apple Academy will provide food and drinks for all children. Breakfast is served at 8:30 a.m. every morning; lunch will be served at 11:00 am for infants and 12:00 pm for those older each day; snack time may vary but planned at 3:30 pm each day. If a child might miss one of these serving times, or is not in attendance BY serving time, families will be responsible for feeding their child(ren) BEFORE bringing them to daycare. Families need to finish this before coming in to daycare. Outside food will not be tolerated as we all eat the same food together as approved by the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program. These guidelines are available at any time. If you’d like to provide food approved by the food program, it be discussed in before plans are made.
Cups/bottles from home are fine, but I prefer not giving sippie cups to children over the age to two. If a cup is brought, it may only contain water or milk/formula. Bottles must have name on them.
Every child will be given the same meal unless a special diet is required for health reasons. I ask that all special diets be promptly discussed with me and written out if necessary. I may require each special diet to follow the USDA guidelines as state by the Child and Adult Care Food Program unless a doctor’s note is presented for medical reasons. Please plan to bring your child’s special diet meals.
Infants Feeding: By state law, infant feeding schedules must be written out and signed by a parent. This includes times and amounts. I will try to follow this schedule in conjunction with all the children’s schedule. It is also a state law bottles must be labels with child’s name and breastmilk labeled with date, time expressed and amount.
Quiet Times / Rest Times (Naps)
Infants/toddlers/school-agers will have their own personal sleep space. Infants (under 12 mos) may ONLY sleep in pack and plays or approved cribs with only one blanket that can be tucked under the mattress and cannot be pulled higher than their chest (391 NAC 1-006.15B). Toddlers will sleep on washable mats; school agers can rest on the floor or couches (assuming they show good hygiene). Each child will have their own sheet/blanket for nap time only; they will be washed on a weekly basis.
All children will be required to lie down for a nap/quiet time each day. I will not force your child to sleep but they must lie down quietly. School-agers can rest and then have the choice of looking at books or table work during this time. This ensures a quiet environment for resting.
I ask that all drop-offs and pick-ups are done before 1:00pm and after 3:00pm out of respect for the children’s rest time.
Outdoor play:
**Children are taken out as often as comfortable weather and scheduling allow. Comfortable/safe temperatures are posted by the front door. Families are asked to bring weather appropriate clothing for outdoor play in both hot and cold seasons. Sunscreen will be applied unless stated otherwise on the Health Form.
**We plan to take walks every day we can which means you must sign the off-premises permission form (391 NAC 1-006.12B)
**Children over two may plan in the fenced in area IF an adult can easily see them. Children will not be playing out of the fence area without an Apples Academy adult although the law allows this for children over four years old. Children are not allowed to be off the premises without an Apples Academy approved adult. (391 NAC 1-.006.12)
**Children may wade/play in shallow kiddie pool or tubs no taller than kiddie pools, under supervision by an Apples Academy Adult, that are drained daily and sanitized. (391 NAC 1-006.18B)
Discipline:
My goal is to aim for independent problem solvers.
I maintain certain rules in my daycare:
**no running inside,
**no foul language,
**no jumping or climbing on furniture,
**no verbal/physical bullying
How I communicate with the children:
**Please use walking feet,
**We use kind words
**We sit down or get down
**We touch our friends nice; hands are for
hugging/high-fiving – not hitting
Children will be redirect or asked to make a choice/ solve their problem during a conflict with my guidance and modeled behavior. They will help solve their problem or be asked to sit and watch children playing ‘nicely and safely’ during times in which I cannot shadow tougher conflict periods.
Hygiene
I will do my best to maintain cleanliness and appropriate hygiene standards. Children's hands are washed before and/or after meals, coming in from outside and after toileting. Children and providers must wash hands during the regular times for the 20 seconds with soap and warm running water. 391 NAC 1-006.20 F). They will be encouraged to keep their hands/fingers out of their eyes, nose, and mouth. I will also ask that coats/jackets and shoes are left in the entry way. Baby toys and toddler toys are stored separately for sanitary reasons. Please have your child bathed and dressed for play. Nails that are too long or full of dirt will be clipped as a health and safety matter. Lotion may be applied to dry or cracking skin unless noted otherwise on “General Health Form.”
A clean child is a healthier and happier child
Diapers and Toilet Training
**There are not requirements for toilet training as each child is different. Please see or ask for a copy of Apples Academy philosophies on toilet training.
**Diaper changing (391 NAC 1-006.16A):
>diapers are checked on a frequent and regular basis
(by 10, 12, 3 and 5 o’clock)
>wet and/or soiled diapers are changed immediately
>individual washcloths or disposable towelettes are
used
>wet and/or soiled diapers are properly stored and
disposed
>diaper-changing surfaces are cleaned after each use
by sanitizing the surface or changing the diaper
pad/disposable sheeting
>proper hand washing is done after each diaper
change
Health Form:
Separate form to list allergies and treatments as well as other health related concerns. This is found in
THIS MUST BE SIGNED AND DATED BY THE PARENT/GUARDIAN. 391 NAC 1-006.06)
Immunization:
Families must provide documentation of their child(ren)’s immunization as soon as possible and all of them must be current for their age unless I have a written family philosophy or note from their physician stating otherwise (state law). Each year, families will be asked to update these records for the state. By state law, families have 30 days to complete this paperwork from the time of enrollment in my daycare. (3891 NAC 1-006.11)
Illness and Exclusion (391 NAC 1-006):
**I will not take sick or contagious children (see below). If a child shows up with these signs, they will be asked to leave or picked up ASAP. A child(ren) may be contagious or sick the day before they show signs of any illness or infection, so I will rely on families to use good judgment in bringing their child to daycare. If their child(ren) become sick during the day, they will be expected to pick them up within 30 minutes of being notified. After 30 minutes, late charges will apply.*** I understand and respect the need to be at work, but cooperation is extremely important on this. (see termination clarification)
**HEALTHY children with sick parents/siblings can to attend daycare, however, I ask that families keep the healthy child away from illness and give them a change of clothes to avoid bringing the illness here.
**Child(ren) may be brought to care if they have a common cold (which means a slight cough, runny nose, sneezing); however I will call if the child is upset (whining, crying, repeatedly asking for their family) or cannot participate in our daily activities (i.e. a child wanting to sleep all day, laying down constantly, barking cough without doctor’s note, etc.)
**I “must notify parents of all enrolled children of any case of any reportable / communicable disease on the same day the licensee is informed of or observes the illness…” I may be required to report such illnesses to the health authority and “post the outbreak in a conspicuous place”
Standard regulations prohibit the admittance of any child into a family childcare home that exhibits any of the following symptoms:
**Fever (100°f or higher) – child needs to be fever free for 24 hours without the aid of medication; I can and may require a child(ren) to have a doctor’s note to attend.
**Diarrhea (applesauce or water consistency or uncontrollable/uncontainable) – child must be symptom free for 24 hours and on normal diet. I will send home uncontrollable/uncontainable instantly; the American Academy of Pediatrics says only more than 2 loose stools in a day is enough for exclusion to occur.
**Vomiting – child must be symptom free for 24 hours and on normal diet BEFORE attending; I will not tolerate vomiting and child may be sent home immediately
**Rash – check with doctor prior to daycare; bring doctor note
**Lice – child needs to be treated and nits removed before returning; doctor note preferred
**Communicable diseases – measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis (whooping cough), etc. ~ must be reported to state officials and provider must report to all families in child care(391 NAC 1-006.09A).
**Persistent runny nose with colored and/or thick discharge for more than a 10 days or accompanies other symptoms –check with a doctor with a note before returning
**Discharge from eyes or ears – check with doctor prior to daycare; bring doctor note
I have several sheets on illnesses containing causes, symptoms, how they spread, incubation periods, contagious periods and exclusion periods on hand or will copy for my families. Illnesses have contagious periods that need to be discussed when seeing the doctor, noted above, or discussed with me before returning. The child may return when the contagious period is passed and the child is well enough to resume normal childcare activities. I would like a doctor’s note in regards to returning to daycare at each doctors visit for illness. I may provide a physician’s evaluation form to be completed by a doctor before returning.
Health Checks
I suggest health checks be performed before/after child care as I will try during the day. Please let me know of any marks or rashes on the child(ren)’s body. Signs of illness or injuries here will be cared for and reported to parents at pick up unless emergency. Please refer to “illness and exclusion” for policies on rashes. All families are required to fill out health forms (state law), that includes markings or injuries that could affect a child’s day at daycare.
In the case of an emergency
**I will attempt to notify a child’s parent(s) and emergency contacts first. If no one can be notified, a 911 may be used. All charges due to the emergency are the responsibility of the parents/ guardians.
**I ask that families keep me up to date with any and all changes to emergency contact information. Emergency forms must be filled out prior to child care services.
**We will practice fire and/or evacuation drills every month (391 NAC 1-006.23C & D). Routes are posted on the back of the door and parents are notified ASAP.
**Tornado drill are done 4 times from March to September; our safe place in the basement. ( 391 NAC 1-006.23B)
**State approved First Aid kits are kept on premises, taken on walks and in vehicles during the transportation of children. (391 NAC 1-006.23F)
Medication:
No medication will be administered without consent (signing medication form) and notation of medication as well as amounts and times to be administered (391 NAC 1.006.20). This information as well as the child’s name should be posted on the medication’s original label or pharmacy label. If the medication to be given exceeds age or weight, I need a doctor’s note. Please do not leave medication in the diaper bag or on the counters/ ledges. Make sure I get it. All medication must be kept and stored in a box or cabinet under lock and key (state law).
Medicine is given by the 5 RIGHTS:
RIGHT child;RIGHT med;RIGHT time; RIGHT amount;RIGHT rte
Child Abuse and Neglect
By law and personal ethics, every Nebraska adult should report any signs of abuse or neglect.
Abuse is defined in three ways (according to Nebraska DHHS)
1. Physical abuse exists when a child has an non-accidental injury.
2. Emotional abuse exists when parents always put blame on a child or always reject the child.
3. Sexual abuse exists when an adult uses a child as a part of any type of sexual act.
Neglect is defined in two ways.
1. Emotional neglect is when the child suffers from the parent's not giving them chances for feeling loved, wanted, secure, and worthy.
2. Physical neglect is when a parent does not provide basic needs or a safe place to live. Examples are:
a. not having enough food or clothing;
b. not following doctor's orders;
c. not providing the supervision needed to keep the child safe;
d. not having heat in the winter.
Pick-ups, drop-offs
**I want to know upfront, who will be responsible for picking up children from my daycare and what times. These people should be listed with their contact information in each child’s file. Please have prior arrangements in writing and a verbal description of adult – let them know I may ask for ID. Please phone sudden changes in pick-up persons or I may not allow child to leave without a legal guardian/ parent.
**I cannot legally refrain from allowing any parent to pick up their child(ren); I must have current, legal papers to do anything different. If papers are not followed, I will take legal action or terminate services.
**It is the families’ responsibility to inform their child(ren)’s drop-off or pick-up persons of these policies stated in this handbook. They are to abide by them as would daycare families; this includes early/late charges.
**391 NAC 1-006.12C – “If a child participates in activities that are not provided by the licensee and are outside the child care premises, the licensee must obtain written permission from the parents.”
**As a child advocate I require all children must have height/weight appropriate safety seats in the vehicles. This includes pick-ups by parents and non-parents.
Prohibited Substances
All forms of smoking and the drinking of alcoholic beverages is strictly forbidden on the child care premises by parents and providers. (391 NAC 1-006.25B)
Open Door Policy
I plan to leave my door open for any daycare parents to freely enter during my operation hours. If I feel safety is a concern, I will lock all doors to my house. I will also lock up my house during neighborhood walks or walking field trips. I ask that families check in with me at drop/off and pick up times as a safety measure. This ensures a child(ren) is in the proper place with proper supervision. No child will be allowed to come in by themselves or leave without adult supervision. Children are not allowed to open the doors unless requested by a parenting needing help (i.e. a parent’s arms are full) and are asked by the parent or current provider.
The Website
I plan to maintain a website for Apple Academy; this is currently found at http://apples-academy.webstarts.com. Here families may find important information such as openings, schedules, contact information with the current handbook/contract, and links for parents and children.
Ending Care
Families are expected to give me a two-week notice to end child care services. They will be charged for the two week after notice even if the family does not show up for care (see termination clarification).
Termination Clarification
Termination may occur when there is a:
Failure to comply with the handbook/contract.
Destructive or hurtful behavior of child that persists even with parent cooperation in stopping the behavior.
Non-Payment of childcare fees or late and/or recurring late payment of fees unless during two-week notice which must be paid unless stated otherwise by Apples Academy
Failure to show up for 2 days in a row without any communication; police may be contacted; DHHS WILL be notified for families with state assistance.
Failure to complete required forms on time.
Blatant disrespect towards provider or provider’s family or another daycare family
If families knowingly bring their child ill.
Incompatibility with child and/or our daycare environment
CONTRACT REVISED FEBRUARY 2014
