2006-2017 Policy Handbook
Whaley’s World of Fun Day Care

   Home phone [417]368-1600 
Owned and operated by: Stephanie Whaley
License Number: 002223043    MOPD ID: 818024

NONDISCRIMINATION-
No caregiver shall discriminate in relation to admissions on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, religion or sex. Whaley's world of fun Daycare is open from 6:30am until 5:00pm. Monday through Friday unless otherwise contracted out. Hours of care will be contracted from child to child.

Please note that no childcare will be provided on the following holidays:
Memorial Day
New Year’s Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Day before Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Day
The day after Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Eve
Christmas Day
The day after Christmas
Childcare Provider Appreciation Day
Veteran’s Day

Paid Holiday’s, Vacation, and Personal Days:
The above are paid holidays for the Provider. If they fall on a weekend they will be observed the Monday after or the Friday before (Providers Choice).
In addition, the Provider will close for 2 weeks for vacation (10 days) per year not counting personal days or holidays, 30 days’ notice will be given to parents. This is no charge to the family’s.

 The Provider will have 7 paid personal/sick days per year. Parents will be notified as soon as possible for personal/sick days. Please have a backup childcare provider for these occasions. The Provider is not responsible for finding alternate care for your child.

ADMISSION-
I require $40.00 non-refundable enrollment fee plus first week’s payment (non-refundable for your child). Enrollment fee is due the first day of each year. Payments for care are due Friday the week before or care will not be given.

[Name of Parent’s]
[Address]
For the care of child / children:
 
PAGE 1

RATES AND HOURS
Each parent /guardian will contract for the hours that childcare is needed for care. The times will be established at enrollment.

 The weekly rate is then guaranteed to be paid to the provider allowing you to insure your child’s placement in care.

 The times you list are the times I will expect you.
If your times do need to be changed in the future a 2 weeks’ notice must be given from the parent/ guardian.
 This is not a guaranteed change considering there will be other children in my care and by law I am only allowed to have so many at a time. The provider will try to make it work if it is possible.

Weekly payments are due by the end of business (5:00 pm) Friday the week before care is given. 
Maximum hours per day is 10 hours. If you need more hours than the amount will change. Hours placed under arrival and pickups are the hours that you will pay for. That will be your minimum rate whether the child attends that day or not.

INDEX:
 After reading each PAGE please initial and date that you UNDERSTAND what EACH PAGE means and then return this portion to the provider. Your initials indicate you agree to each section.


HOLDING A SPOT:
  Parents that want to hold a spot for their child must pay half of the amount owed each week plus the $40.00 non-refundable enrollment fee. 

Drop Off Time:
Please note that the latest drop off time is 9:00 am.
We do a lot during the day and late drop off disturb our activities. If your child is not coming then please let me know asap.

Pick Up Time:
Please make sure you are no later than the time you put down. I cannot stress enough this. I do charge late fees to family’s that abuse this.
My family time is very precious to me and I treasure every second with them.

LATE AND EARLY FEES ($2.50 PER 1 MINUTE PER CHILD WILL BE PAID THE NEXT DAY NO EXCEPTIONS. If late past closing it is $10.00 the first 2 minutes per child and $3.00 every minute after per child.)
If this becomes a habit, then the Provider has grounds for terminating the contract without notice.
PAGE 2

FULL TIME RATE:

Infant care 6 weeks to 24 months old (2 years of age or until potty trained)
$130.00
For ages 2 to and up
$120.00
Please note that if your child is being potty trained they still are under the infant care amount.

(NOTE- This must be agreed to by Provider)

Please note-
 I do not give sibling discount.
Child is guaranteed spot when under full time care contract returned, forms returned, enrollment fee, first and last week’s payment has been made.

Please note- I do not provide part time care at this time.

PLEASE LIST ARRIVAL AND PICKUP TIMES [HOURS]

THIS WILL BE DUE BEFORE CARE IS GIVEN AND IT WILL BE YOUR MINIMUM RATE.

MONDAY____________TO ______________=_______

TUESDAY ___________ TO ___________ =_______

WEDNESDAY __________ TO __________ = _______

THURSDAY ___________TO ____________= ________

FRIDAY _____________ TO ____________ =________        WEEKLY PAYMENTS= ____________

PAYMENT DUE TIME:

All payments are due by Friday morning at drop off-NO EXCEPTIONS.
After Friday morning, if payment was not made, the late fee will be assessed. NO CHILDCARE WILL BE PROVIDED UNTIL PAYMENT IS PAID IN FULL. THIS INCLUDES LATE FEES. If a period of 7 days passes without payment received, the contract will be terminated, the position filled, and the collection process begun. You will be responsible for all costs related to the collection of the childcare fees. Late fees $10.00 per day until all payments are paid in full. If the contract is terminated, parents will be responsible for payment at the time of termination or late fees will be added.

Cash or check is accepted and a receipt will be given. A fee of $45.00, plus any additional costs I incur, will be charged to you for a returned check. All future payments will be then made by cash.

CHILDCARE FEES ARE DUE REGARDLESS OF WHETHER OR NOT YOUR CHILD ATTENDS. YOU ARE PAYING FOR A POSITION, AS WELL AS A SERVICE. IF YOU ARE HOURLY, THE AMOUNT WILL BE DUE BEFORE YOU LEAVE YOUR CHILD/CHILDREN HERE. THESE FEES ARE DUE REGARDLESS OF UNFORSEEN OR ARRANGED ABSENCES SUCH AS ILLNESS, MONTHLY CLUB MEETINGS, APPOINTMENTS, ETC.

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT A PART TIME CHILD TAKES UP A FULL-TIME SPOT AND PROVIDER WILL DO ALL SHE CAN TO KEEP THE CHILD BUT FULL POSITIONS COME FIRST.

All childcare services will be contracted
The contract is a legal document obligating me to provide a service for you and obligating you to pay me for that service. There are other requirements in the contract. I urge you to thoroughly read the contract and realize that it is legal and you will be held for each item of the contract. The following forms must be filled out and returned for your child to attend.
Signed Contract with Rates Filled Out
State Forms
Food Program Forms
Copy of Immunization Record
Medical Examination Form from Doctor
Enrollment fee
Payment for 1^st and last week of care (Non-Refundable)


A position at Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare will be considered open until the payment for the forms and fees are received. If care is to start more than 2 weeks in the future, you must still pay the tuition fee to hold that spot for your child. This is non-refundable if you choose to go elsewhere before care.

VACATION DAYS FOR PROVIDER:
  The provider will take 2 weeks in a calendar year which you will not pay for. Please make arraignments for these days off with another childcare provider. The Provider will give a 1 month notice for her vacation time.

Initial’s and date: _________________________________________________

                                                                   PAGE 4

DAILY DOINGS

DROP OFF/PICKUP:

Do not leave your car running! Your child must exit my home with you. Please do not allow your child to play near the vehicles at any time.
If you have someone other than yourself picking up your child I will need to know ASAP.
No child will be allowed to leave with anyone except the parent/guardian unless permission is given. Telephone permission will not do! Anyone unfamiliar to me will be required to show proof of Identification. Please make alternate pick up person aware of these requirements.

It is normal for your child to cry on arrival, especially for the first few weeks. Please make your goodbye brief and tell your child when exactly you will be returning. The crying usually stops within seconds of your departure. You are more than welcome to listen outside the door. Never leave without telling your child/children goodbye.
                           Please be in control of your child/children during drop off and pickup times.
This is the time they love to test when two different authority figures are present [Parent and Provider] and this situation will be tested at one time or another to see if the rules still apply. I will remind your child if inappropriate behaviors are being displayed. Children of all ages adjust to transitions from one activity to another differently. Most do not like to be rushed and most do not like to wait too long once they are ready to depart. If you need the child/children to be ready to leave, please call ahead and I will prepare the child/children to go home.

IF THE PERSON PICKING UP THE CHILD/CHILDREN APPEARS TO BE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, ANOTHER AUTHORIZED PERSON WILL BE CALLED TO PICK-UP BOTH THE CHILD AND THE ADULT.                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

COURT ORDER:
IF THERE IS A COURT ORDER KEEPING ONE PARENT OR GUARDIAN AWAY FROM THE CHILD, I MUST HAVE A NOTARIZED COPY OF THAT COURT ORDER IN MY FILE TO THAT EFFECT. OTHERWISE, I CANNOT PREVENT THE NON-CUSTODIAL PARENT FROM PICKING UP THE CHILD.

SIGN IN/SIGN OUT SHEET:
Every adult dropping off or picking up a child MUST, sign the child/children in and out of care each day. I have a tablet that you will sign your child/children in and out with. This is not a toy for the children to play with so please do not allow them to play with it.

*DROP Off AND PICK UP TIMES: *
DROP OFF MUST BE CONDUCTED BEFORE THE HOURS OF 9:00 AM OR AFTER 2:30 PM. NO DROP OFF WILL BE ACCEPTED BETWEEN THE HOURS LISTED ABOVE.

LATE PICKUP:
LATE PICK UP AND EARLY DROP OFF FEES ($2.50 PER 1 MINUTE PER CHILD WILL BE PAID THE NEXT DAY NO EXCEPTIONS.) If late past closing it is $10.00 the first 2 minutes per child and $3.00 every minute after per child. THE HOURS THAT YOU AGREE TOO ARE THE HOURS YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DEVIATION FROM THE TIMES THAT ARE MUTUALLY AGREED TOO ARE SUBJECT TO LATE/EARLY FEES. ANY CHANGES IN YOUR TIMES MUST BE MUTUALLY AGREED TO TWO WEEKS PRIOR UNTIL NEW HOURS START.

OPEN DOOR:
 You are invited and more than welcome to visit Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare anytime your child/children are present. You are asked to avoid visiting during Nap/quiet time [about 11:30 pm to 2:30 pm] as much as possible. Please knock first. Parents are also free to call the Provider [Please respect the fact that nap time is quiet and email is best to contact me] or email at any time. If I do not answer, please leave a message, and I will call you back as soon as we are finished with the current activity. I keep my door locked for safety reasons. If it is near your regular pickup/drop off, it will be unlocked for a short while.

SICK/VACATION FOR CHILD/CHILDREN:
 If your child/children is ill and needs to miss a day, please call 1 hour before arrival time but no earlier than 6:30 am.
Please do NOT medicate your child before they come to care. If they are sick they must stay home so no germs are spread.
If you decide to go on vacation, you get 3 days 50% off. You must give 30 days’ notice in order to get the 50% off. No exception.

PROVIDER SICK DAYS:
In the event that the provider is sick [or her children] and unable to provide services, the provider will use either her 7 paid/personal days or will get a portion of your tuition in the amount due for hours of service missed. The Provider is only human and will try everything in her power to avoid such an occurrence, but will not be able to guarantee perfect health.

DISCIPLINE:
No child will be hit, spanked, belittled, or otherwise intimidated at the Provider’s. No corporal punishment will be used. Children will be treated with courtesy, respect, and patience. Discipline will be according to age and understanding level. Younger children, babies and toddlers, will be redirected to another activity. Older children will be given time outs depending on the severity of the offense [almost always 1minute per year of age, never to be more than 10 minutes].
If a child becomes a persistent behavior problem, I will address it with you and we will try to resolve it together. The last resort will be to terminate the contract for the well-being of the other children and to give that child a better suited childcare that can meet his/her needs.
AT NO TIME WILL A CHILD BE SUBJECTED TO PHYSICAL PUNISHMENT OR SHAMING, FRIGHTENING OR HUMILIATING METHODS, OR ANY TYPE OF VERBAL ABUSE, THREATS, DEROGATORY REMARKS, OR DEPRIVATION OF A MEAL OR ANY PART OF A MEAL BE USED. NO CHILD WILL EVER BE PUNISHED FOR TOILET ACCIDENTS.

MEALS:
I participate in the Food Program and provide nutritionally balanced meals and snacks for your child. Please do not send any food or drink with your child without prior approval through the provider. Manners are taught, and practiced during this time as well. Please list on the child information sheet any food allergies the child may have. If your child needs a special diet, the parent must furnish these foods. For children, not yet on the table food, all baby /food and formula/breast milk is to be provided by the parent.

DRESS CODE:
Please dress your child appropriately. The activities may be messy. Do not send your child/children in clothing that you do not want stained. I use washable art supplies, but caution never hurts. Weather permitting; we will spend some time outdoors. You also need to supply a complete change of clothing in case of an accident; I do not supply clothing for the day care children. If the child has no spare clothing, the parent/guardian will be called to bring some.
PAGE 6

TOYS:
If your child needs a special toy or item for sleeping, it will be allowed, but it will remain put away until nap/rest time. The provider assumes NO responsibility for lost, stolen, or broken toys that you bring from home. Should the child deliberately destroy my toys or other property through misuse or willfulness, the parent will be required to replace it within two weeks or pay the cost of the toy.

NAP/REST TIME:
All children are REQUIRED by the provider to have a nap/rest period. No child is forced to sleep; however they must remain quiet. Do Not schedule pick-ups or visits during this time. No child will be woken up from a nap. All blankets and pillow cases will be cleaned every Saturday.

TOILET LEARNING:
 This is a team effort! I will assist you in toilet training your child with the understanding that it will be successful only if we work together. I will use pull-ups supplied by the parent. Send your child ONLY in easy on/off clothing until they are able to completely undress/dress themselves. Do not bring your child with a diaper on.
I require at LEAST 3 complete changes of clothing during toilet learning. I do not launder soiled items and will send them home in a plastic bag. Please replace any clothing sent home the next day. Underwear is not to be worn to Daycare until the child has been dry for at least one week and is initiating toilet use. A pull-up is still required for nap/quit time.

TRANSPORTATION:
The only time I will be transporting the children anywhere is during an emergency. Parents will be told where their child/children are at so they can come get them asap.

PETS:
We do have a dog his name is Gizmo all shots are up to date and a copy can be provided if requested.

SMOKING:
The provider does not smoke and due to allergies, smoking is never permitted inside/outside the provider’s house. No one is to smoke on property!       

HOUSE CLEANING:
My house is not always spotless. My main concern is the children. I clean my house during nap/rest time, if all are asleep, during non-business hours, and occasionally with children’s help. The children will help clean up toys before meals and naps. All toys will be cleaned weekly unless they are mouthed in which case they will be cleaned at nap time.

EMERGENCIES:
I have a fire extinguisher located in my kitchen area. If there is a fire that cannot be extinguished quickly, the children will be evacuated immediately before calling 911. We will practice fire drills monthly so children will be prepared in the event of a fire.

PAGE 7

POWER OUTAGES & NO WATER:
If the power remains out for some time, there are non-perishables located in the kitchen that will be used to eat. If it is for a long period of time, you will be called to come get your child. If the weather is inclement and the house is getting too cold or too hot for the children, you will be called to pick up your child/children.
If I have no water I also by State rules must close until we get our water working again.


CHANGE TO POLICIES:
 Changes may be made to these policies as needed with 2 weeks’ notice. The policies, contracts, consents, and forms will be reviewed and updated, if needed, yearly in January. Please give written notice of any changes that may occur, especially of name or address, or of updated immunizations.

CONFIDENTIALITY:
The information you supply to the provider will be kept confidential. I will, at all times, respect your privacy. Before any of the information is released to outside persons, the parents will sign a release form. [THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO AUTHORIZED PEOPLE/AGENGIES]

ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS:
Before enrolling your child/children Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare there are several things you must do;
$40.00 Non-refundable enrollment fee for each child. This is due at the beginning of each year your child/children will be in my care.
Read through and become familiar with the policies. You will be required to sign a form that indicates you have read, understand, and agree to ALL the policies as outlined.
A complete immunization’s record must be on file. The immunization record must be valid, unless your child is still receiving immunizations as they occur. A chickenpox vaccine is now required for all children unless they have had the disease. Also, you will get a Child Medical Examination Report that must be filled out by a Doctor. All forms must be filled out before care is given. No exceptions. All appropriate forms must be filled out, signed, and on file PRIOR to admission. All necessary forms/consents will be given to you in your admission package.
An acquaintance visit must be made. I will not care for children unless they have had one, and preferably two, visits to the provider’s home to become familiar with me and the service provided.

TERMINATION OF CARE:
The first 2 weeks, is considered a trial period, either party may terminate for any reason effective immediately. After a two -week trial period, either party can only terminate care with 2 weeks’ notice. I can terminate at my discression at any time. Here are examples; I reserve the right to immediately end care for non-payment, failure to respect me, my home, my family, my neighborhood, being rude, outspoken, rude to the other family's or the children, behavior of the child which is harmful to the physical or emotional well-being of the other children, breaking property, or failure to abide by my policies. If you or I terminate care during trial period or after the trial period payment is due immediately, you will be responsible for payment of final 2 weeks of care whether or not your child attends if terminated after trial period. The late fee does apply here if payment is not received same day notice is given. (Open business days only for 2 weeks notice. NOTE- Holidays, weekends, vacation days, personal days, sick days will not be counted as part of your two week notice)

CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT:
I am required by law to report any suspected signs of child abuse and/or neglect. This includes any form of physical punishment by the parents/guardian in the home. Any request to use physical punishments by the parents will be noted in the child’s file along with a written refusal from the provider, signed by the provider.

PAGE 8

SUPPLIES;
All supplies must be labeled with your child’s name. You will need to provide the following things;[You can leave them here if you wish]
1 complete change of clothing [3 if toilet training] to be left here.
For those not yet potty trained, at least 5 pull-ups per day.
1 box of baby wipes, please bring a refill box the first time and then refill packs as needed.
2 pacifiers, if needed
Formula/breast milk, if applicable and baby food. Please label with your child’s name.

ILLNESS:
Under no circumstances is a sick child to attend Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare. The children should be allowed to recover fully from an illness in the comfort of their own home. The other children in care are exposed to any disease your child may bring into the home. If you are unable to remain home with your child, it is your responsibility to make substitute childcare arrangements. Obviously, it is not possible to prevent the spread of all illness. However, minimizing exposure and providing good hygienic practices in the daycare home are means by which we can limit the problem and the resulting inconvenience. Accordingly, for the benefit of all involved, the following policies will be strictly enforced:
Children who have exhibited ANY symptoms of infectious illness within the proceeding 24-hour period are likely to be contagious and should remain at home. Examples of associated symptoms include, but are not limited to, fever of 100F measured orally or 101F measured rectally, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, sore throat, loss of voice, MRSA, hacking or continuous coughing, yellow or green runny nose, draining eyes or ears, rash, red eye, or head lice.
I reserve the right to determine whether a child should remain in the home where illness is a consideration.
Parents of children who become ill during the day will be promptly notified and are expected to arrange to pick up their child immediately. The sick child will, if possible, be isolated from the other daycare children to minimize exposure, although not in a bad way to make them feel even worse. If the parent cannot be reached, the person designated as the emergency contact will be notified.
If you bring your child sick to care knowingly [meaning; giving meds. Before care, telling me they have a bit of a cold but you brought them anyways, etc.], this will be cause for termination. Children MUST be fever free WITHOUT any fever reducing medications for a minimum of 24 hours.

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES:
Although supervision is constantly given, I cannot be by the child’s side at all times to prevent falls, tripping, bumps, blows from other children, etc. If the child is injured in a non-life-threatening way, I will assess the child and provide home first aid. If the injury is more serious, the parent will be notified so the child can be transported to the hospital or doctor’s office. (I.E. needs stitches, broken arm, or dislocation, etc.) All costs associated with injuries to the child will be the responsibility of the parent, unless I have been found to be negligent. In case of a medical emergency, I will attempt to call you immediately. If I am unable to reach you, I will start calling the people designated as your emergency contacts. If I am unable reach, you or your emergency contacts, and immediate intervention is required. I will take appropriate action including calling 911 and having your child transported to the nearest Hospital by ambulance. You or your family insurance is/are responsible for the cost of medical help or treatment due to accidents or illness while in childcare.

PAGE 9

Under Construction. This form will be used for exercise and activities.

PAGE 10

Breastfeeding Policy:

 Breastfeeding is the normal way to feed a baby, providing many health benefits to both infant and mother. Because breastfeeding employees need ongoing support from child care providers to provide their milk for their babies, Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare subscribes to the following policy. 

1.  Breastfeeding mothers shall be provided a place to breastfeed or express their milk.  

Breastfeeding mothers, including employees, shall be provided a private and sanitary place other than a bathroom, to breastfeed their babies or express milk. This area provides an electrical outlet, comfortable chair, table or stand and nearby access to running water. 

2.  My refrigerator will be made available for storage of expressed breast milk.  

Breastfeeding mothers and employees may store their expressed breast milk in the child care’s refrigerator. Mothers should provide their own containers, clearly labeled with name and date. The child care will follow guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in ensuring that breast milk is properly treated to avoid waste. Universal precautions are not required in handling human milk. 

3.  Sensitivity will be shown to breastfeeding mothers and their babies.  

The child care is committed to providing ongoing support to breastfeeding mothers, including providing an opportunity to breastfeed their baby at any time, and holding off giving a bottle, if possible, when mom is due to arrive. Artificial baby milks (formula) and solid foods will not be provided unless the mother has requested. Babies will be held closely when feeding and bottles will never be propped. 

4.  Staff shall be trained in handling human milk.  

All child care staff will be trained every 3 years in the proper storage and handling of human milk, as well as ways to support breastfeeding mothers. 

5.  Breastfeeding employees shall be provided flexible breaks to accommodate breastfeeding or milk expression.  

Breastfeeding employees shall be provided a flexible schedule for breastfeeding or pumping to provide breast milk for their children. The time allowed would not exceed the normal time allowed for lunch and breaks. For time above and beyond normal lunch and breaks, sick/annual leave must be used, or the employee can come in a little earlier or leave a little late to make up the time. 

1.  Breastfeeding promotion information will be displayed.  

The child care will provide information on breastfeeding, including the names of area resources should questions or problems arise. In addition, positive promotion of breastfeeding will be on display in the facility. There are no advertisements of formula in the facility.

 Adapted from the Mississippi Breastfeeding Coalition's Building Breastfeeding Friendly Communities project  by the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services in collaboration with the Wisconsin Breastfeeding Coalition  Division of Public Health – Nutrition Section PPH 40070 (6/03) www.dhfs.state.wi.us/WIC  
Also available for reference: State of Vermont Sample Policy

http://healthvermont.gov/wic/documents/child care_policy.pdf

PAGE 12

INFANT AND TODDLER FEEDING POLICY

Reason this policy is important:

 Proper nutrition is very important to an infant/toddler’s growth and development.  Close attention to the general and individual nutrition needs of the children in our care is our goal.

Procedures and Practices, including responsible person(s):  

The staff of Whaley’s Fun Daycare will provide an Individualized Plan for Specialized Care Sheet included in the Enrollment Forms packet download. for parents to complete with current eating habits.

Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare staff will obtain, review, and share with other staff members/teachers/caregivers a written description of each child’s eating habits before the child enters the program.

Meals and snack patterns will be consistent with Child/Adult Care Food Program –Child Care Infant Meal Pattern.

Formula Preparation:

•       Caregiver’s hands will be washed before preparing formula and/or feeding children.  Children’s hands will be washed before being fed.  

•       Formula will be brought to the setting in a factory-sealed container and labeled with the child’s name and date.  

•       Formula will be prepared according to the directions on the container.  Formula will be used within 48 hours after preparation, opening of ready-to-eat, or concentrate.  

•       Prepared formula must be labeled with child’s name and date and kept covered and refrigerated.  Individual bottles must also be labeled with child’s name and date and capped for storage in refrigerator until use.

•       Filled bottles will be capped and refrigerated immediately upon arrival to the child care program.

•       Preparation surface will be cleaned, rinsed, and sanitized before preparing formula or food  

•       A minimum of eight feet will be maintained between the preparation area and the diapering area.  

•       Dirty bottles and equipment will not be stored within eight feet of the diapering area or placed in the diapering sink.  They will be placed in a tub to be properly cleaned in the kitchen.

•       If formula is warmed, the bottle will be placed in hot water (not boiling) for five minutes and temperature tested before giving to infant. Microwave ovens will not be used to heat formula, breast milk, or baby food.

•       If a crock-pot is used the water temperature must be monitored and held below 120 °F, and contain no more than 1 ½ inches of water (crock pots pose a risk of scalding).  The crock-pot must be not being accessible to children. Crock-pots will be cleaned and sanitized daily.  

•       Other acceptable methods of heating infant bottles include:  bottle warmers or by holding the bottle under warm running tap water until the fluid is no longer cold.  Bottles will be wiped off to prevent hot water from dripping on child. 

•       If the feeding has taken over 1 hour to complete or the bottle has been un-refrigerated for 1 hour, the milk shall be discarded.

•       All bottles, nipples and other equipment for bottle preparation will be cleaned and sterilized before each use. 

Breastfeeding and Breast Milk Bottle Preparation: 

 Mothers will be supported by providing a place for nursing mothers to breastfed and by coordinating feeding routines in child care with mother’s schedule.  Mothers who wish for privacy while breastfeeding may use nursing
area located near the fireplace in the living room.  Mother’s may choose to open feed or place the room divider in front of them for privacy.

Breast Milk Bottle Preparation:  

•       Human milk from a mother will be only used with that mother’s child.

•       Expressed breast milk may be brought from home if the bottles/breast milk bags are transported in a clean insulated container that keeps the milk at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Breast milk will be refrigerated or frozen as soon as it arrives at the child care program.

•       Child’s full name and date prepared will be on every bottle.  

•       Refrigerated breast milk must be used within 48 hours.  

•       Breast milk first frozen then thawed in refrigerator then must be used within 24 hours.

•       Frozen breast milk may be kept in the freezer for 2 weeks and in a deep freeze (0 degrees) for 3 months.

•       Caregiver’s hands will be washed before preparing bottles. 

•       Frozen breast milk will be thawed under cold water or in the refrigerator.

•       If heated, all breast milk will be placed in hot water (not boiling) for five minutes and temperature tested before giving to infant.  Microwaves will not be used to warm bottles. 

•       Any contents remaining in a bottle after feeding will be discarded.  If the feeding has taken over 1 hour to complete or the bottle has been un-refrigerated for 1 hour, the milk shall be discarded. 

•       Only cleaned and sterilized bottles and nipples will be used.  

•       All bottles, nipples and other equipment for bottle preparation will be cleaned and sterilized before each use. 

Feeding:  

•       Infants will be held or fed sitting up.  Bottle propping, feeding in cribs, car seats, or swings, or carrying of bottles by children will not be permitted.

•       Infants will be fed “on demand” as much as possible, but at least every 4 hours and usually not more than hourly.

•       Formula or breast milk will be the only milk product served to children younger than 12 months of age unless medically indicated by the child’s health care provider.

•       No medication or cereal will be added to the bottle unless medically indicated by the child’s health care provider.

PAGE 14

Cow’s milk:

•       Only whole pasteurized milk will be served to children younger than 24 months unless medically indicated by the child’s health care provider.

Solid food:

•       Children will not be allowed to walk around with food, bottles, or cups.

•       Caregiver will communicate with children during mealtime.

•       When high chairs are used, caregivers will use safety straps.

•       Trays, seats, arms of highchair will be cleaned and sanitized before and after eating.

•       No more than three infants per caregiver will be fed at one time.

•       Commercially packaged baby food will be served from a bowl or cup and not directly from the container unless the entire container will be used for only one feeding.

•       Introduction of solid foods will begin between 4-6 months as indicated by the child’s nutritional and developmental needs after consulting family unless medically indicated by the child’s health care provider.  Modification to infant food pattern (handout) will be provided in writing by child’s health care provider. 

•       After six months’ children will be encouraged to self-feed depending on their skills in this area.

•       Food will be cut into ¼ inch pieces for finger feeding by children.  Utensils will be offered to children who can use them.

•       Round, firm foods that might be a choking hazard such as but not limited to: hot dogs, whole grapes, peanuts, nuts, seeds, raw peas, dried fruit, popcorn, thickly spread peanut butter, and hard candy will not be served to children under the age of 3 years old.

•       Food will never be used as a reward or denied as punishment.

When the policy applies: 

To all meals and snacks served.

Communication plan for staff and parents:

•       Staff and volunteers will receive a written copy of this policy in their orientation packets before beginning work at the center.  

•       Written instructions are posted in food preparation areas.

•       Parents are given information when beginning program and information is exchanged daily between caregiver and parent.

                                                   PAGE 15

References:

CARING FOR OUR CHILDREN, National Health and Safety Performance Standards: Guidelines for Out-of-Home Child Care Programs.  2^nd Edition.  American Academy of Pediatrics, American Public Health Association, and U.S Department of Health and Human Services.  2002   http://nrc.uchsc.edu/CFOC/

Managing Infectious Diseases in Child Care and Schools, A quick reference guide.  American Academy of Pediatrics, 2004.

Indiana Rule 470 IAC 3-4.7-78

Indiana Rule 470 IAC 3-4.7-138

Reviewed by:          ______________________________Director/Owner

______________________________Health Professional (physician, nurse, health department, EMS, Health consultant)

______________________________Staff member

______________________________Other (parent, advisory committee)

Effective Date and Review Date:

This policy is effective _____/_____/_____ and will be reviewed annually by ____/_____/_____ or sooner if needed.  Parents and staff will be notified of any upcoming policy review

 *This form is modified from https://www.iidc.indiana.edu/styles/iidc/defiles/ecc/ccr-inftodfeedingpolicy.pdf

 *This format is adapted from and used with permission of: National Training Institute for Child Care Health Consultants, UNC, 2000

                                                   PAGE 16 

Parent’s Handout:

Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare Child Nutrition and Play Policies

Nutrition Policies

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PHYSICAL ACTIVITY:
I encourage all children to participate in a variety of fun exciting activities that are age appropriate.
As a provider, I think it is so important to get outdoor play any time we can. If we have bad weather then we will have fun activities to do inside. We follow a schedule that provides a few hours each do to explore the outdoors.
I or my assistant will have a structured time in the day for the children.

Physical Activity Policies:

Parent Handout:

Policy 1.0 Foods from Outside Child Care, Child Care Policy 2.0 Celebrations/Special Occasions, Healthy Foods for Celebrations, Guidelines for Healthy Celebrations, Nonfood Fundraising Ideas

Appendix B:  Facility Resource Sample Policies

Child Care Policy 1.0 Foods from Outside Child Care

PURPOSE:  To provide clear guidance on food items the child care facility allows to be brought into the facility so that staff and parents know how to best meet the nutritional and food safety needs of the children.

SCOPE:  Center; Large Family Child Care Home; Small Family Child Care Home 

BACKGROUND:  Child care centers play a vital role in providing safe, nutritious food in a pleasant learning environment.  Eating nutritious foods and learning good mealtime behaviors are important due to the rapid growth and the major developmental changes children undergo.  Mealtime can also be an opportunity for learning and developing social and motor skills and for introducing new foods.  Skills such as hand washing, table manners and carrying on a conversation can be developed and reinforced at mealtime.

SNACKS AND MEALS:  Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare will provide a snack/meal to children present at scheduled snack/meal times only.  This facility’s menus are regulated by the Missouri Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and meet the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines.  The snack/meal menus are posted at the center with copies available upon request.  All children will be served the same items during snack/meal time.  We ask that children at least to try new food items.  We cannot accommodate food preferences but do recognize your need to restrict certain foods in your child’s diet for medical reasons.  If your child has allergies to particular foods or is on a special diet, our facility must have signed documentation from a doctor or medical authority stating your child’s special dietary needs and the foods that may be substituted to meet those needs.

FOOD FROM OUTSIDE CHILD CARE:  Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare is committed to providing safe, healthy and nutritious food to children in our care.  We respectfully request that no foods be brought from home or elsewhere into the facility.  Your child’s diet, while in our care, is specifically planned to follow the Missouri CACFP menu requirements and meet the USDA guidelines for a child’s recommended needs.  Children arriving with food from an outside source will be asked to dispose of the food items. 

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RATIONALE:   Food-borne illness may occur when food has not been properly handled or maintained at appropriate temperatures.  Although many of these illnesses are limited to vomiting and diarrhea, they can be life threatening, especially for young children.  Restricting food brought into the facility reduces the risk of food-borne illness from unknown procedures used in home preparation and transport.  The facility has an obligation to ensure that the food shared with other children complies with the food safety and nutrition guidelines for meals and snacks.

Foods of low nutritional value, such as sweets, candy and potato chips brought from home, can lead to problems in the child care setting.  For example:

§  Social problems between children may occur when some children receive

―treat‖ foods in their lunch, while others do not.  

§  Children can become confused about which foods are nutritious.

§  Children often have small appetites.  When they fill up on less nutritious foods, they may not have room for the foods necessary to meet their nutritional needs.

Approved by:

___________________________                                                     ___________

Director of Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare                              Date

 PAGE 20

Child Care Policy 2.0 Celebrations/Special Occasions

PURPOSE:  To provide clear guidance on items that parents can provide for children in the child care facility during celebrations/special occasions so that staff and parents know how to best meet the nutritional and food safety needs of the children.

SCOPE:  Center; Group Family Child Care Home; Family Child Care Home 

CELEBRATIONS/SPECIAL OCCASSIONS:  Our facility realizes it is important to parents that their child be allowed to celebrate special occasions, such as birthdays and holidays.  If you want your child to celebrate a special occasion while in our facility please let us know a few days ahead of time.  Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare will provide special treats for each child’s birthday or holiday celebration, with attention to good nutrition and healthful eating habits.  Our ―Healthy Foods for Celebrations‖ form provides a checklist of items the facility is able to provide.  Foods from outside the facility are not allowed due to health and sanitation issues.  If you want to provide something beyond what the facility provides, the items must be nonfood items.  Please refer to the parent handout ―Guidelines for Healthy Celebrations‖ for some examples of appropriate treats.  Please check with your child’s teacher before bringing anything in. 

RATIONALE:   Food-borne illness may occur when food has not been properly handled or maintained at appropriate temperatures.  Although many of these illnesses are limited to vomiting and diarrhea, they can be life threatening, especially for young children.  Restricting food brought into the facility by parents reduces the risk of food-borne illness from unknown procedures used in home preparation and transport.  The facility has an obligation to ensure that the food shared with other children complies with the food safety and nutrition guidelines for meals and snacks.

Approved by:

___________________________                                                     ___________

Director of Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare                              Date

Appendix C: Parent Handout



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Child Care Screen Time Policy:

Because we care about the health and well-being of the children in our care, we follow best practice recommendations on screen time:

• Children under 2 should have no screen time

• Children age 2 and over should watch less than 1 hour per week at child care.

Screen time includes the use of television, videos, computers, and video games during care.

Whaley’s World of Fun Daycare understands that TV and other screen time can get in the way of playtime, physical activity, and interactions with others, which all contribute to learning and healthy physical/social development.

Therefore, we will restrict screen time by adhering to the following guidelines:

o  We allow a maximum of 1 hour per week of educational, age appropriate screen time.

o  We allow zero screen time for children under the age of two.

o  We do not allow television or movies to be left on as background noise.

o  We do not have television or movies playing during mealtimes.

o  We do not offer screen time as a reward.

o  We will instead offer and utilize educational videos and music that promote physical activity like children’s yoga, dance, active play i.e.: Brain Breaks, I Can Count To 100, Alphabet, etc.

Adapted from: www.snohd.org

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Tax Time:
As always, I make receipts out each time, a payment is made. This is for my taxes as well as yours. January, I will prepare your tax statement. This statement will show your annual childcare payments with my tax I.D. printed clearly on the statement. You must sign on the bottom of this page and you will get a copy that day. If you find that it is wrong, please let me know as soon as possible and we will look at our records and re due if necessary. If you are a non-paying Parent, you must pay the FULL amount owed before getting this document.

                                   SIGNATURE PAGE:

THE SIGNATURES BELOW INDICATE AGREEMENT WITH THIS CONTRACT AND WITH THE WRITTEN POLICIES OF THE POVIDER (CONTAINED IN A SEPARATE DOCUMENT). THE PROVIDER MAY CHANGE POLICIES AS NEEDED WITH ADVANCED WRITTEN NOTICE.

______________________________________                                    __________________________________________

PARENTS NAME                                                                                   PARENTS SIGNATURE AND DATE

______________________________________                                    __________________________________________

PARENTS NAME                                                                                   PARENTS SIGNATURE AND DATE

______________________________________                                    __________________________________________

PROVIDERS NAME                                                                              PROVIDERS SIGNATURE AND DATE

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