Childcare Center Handbook

Updated June 2025

A copy of this handbook which details our policies and program is available for review on the bulletin board in each child care room for all parents and staff to view. Staff receives a copy upon employment, and each parent receives a copy at the time a child is admitted to the Center.

About the Center

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide an enriching, developmentally appropriate environment for children that allows them to grow and learn each day.

Philosophy

We know that each child is special, unique, and holds the future in their hands. Our quality child care program nurtures individual needs and abilities of infants all the way through school-aged children. We believe that children thrive when they are met with meaningful, developmentally appropriate challenges to stimulate their intellectual growth and development.

Tobacco-free / Nicotine-free

St. Teresa Child Care Center is a smoke-free, nicotine free environment. Tobacco, nicotine, electronic cigarettes, and vaping are prohibited on the grounds or in any vehicles the Center uses to transport children to field trips. Staff are prohibited from wearing clothing that smells of smoke when working.

Goals

The Center strives to meet each of these goals for each child in the following ways:

• Offer a curriculum which encourages social, emotional, physical and intellectual growth.
• Teach each child how to relate to others, value friendships, and to respect all people.
• Provide a safe, comfortable environment for early learning and growth processes.
• Help children develop self-discipline and independence as well as expressing their emotions in an appropriate manner.
• Provide a well-balanced schedule of activities and quiet times.
• Provide nutritious meals that contribute to growth and development.
• Keystone services are available for diagnosis or intervention of any developmental concerns.

Licensing

St. Teresa of Calcutta Child Care Center is a licensed childcare center through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (Iowa DHHS). We are inspected every year. We are required to follow the Iowa DHHS licensing policies and procedures while in operation. The Iowa DHHS licensing manual is available upon your request for your reference in the Director's office. Our Iowa DHHS licensing consultant is:

• Becky Frost
• 319-292-2429 office
• 319-291-2619 fax
• rfrost@dhs.state.ia.us

Ratios

St. Teresa of Calcutta Child Care Center complies with the Iowa Rules for ratios of children to staff members. The state regulation for ratios is as follows:

AGES	MINIMUM STAFF TO CHILD
6 weeks to 24 months	1:3/4 children
2 years	1:7 children
3 years	1:10 children
4 years	1:12 children
5 - 10 years	1:15 children

Room Capacity

Infant Room (6 wk-12 mo)	12 children
Ones Room (12mo-24 mo)	12 children
Twos Room (18 mo+)	26 children
Preschool & School Age Before & After School	24 children

Staff 

Every effort is made to hire caring individuals who are best qualified to help your children meet their full potential. All staff meet or exceed state requirements and are trained in safety procedures and guidelines. These include CPR, First Aid, Universal Precautions, and Child Abuse Mandatory Reporter. Staff is also trained in positive behavior practices. All staff and volunteers are required to follow the Center’s policies and procedures as well as State of Iowa regulations for licensed child care centers. It is the responsibility of all staff to make verbal and written reports of any suspected child abuse or neglect to the Iowa DHHS. The director, staff, and volunteers have been informed that our strict policy on confidentiality and mandatory compliance is required in all situations. Staff are not permitted to discuss the case of any individual child or their family outside the Center.

Hours of Operation and Closing

The Center is open year round, Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Center will be closed on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, July 4th,Thanksgiving and the day after, Christmas Day, and Labor Day. If Christmas Day or New Year’s Day falls on Saturday, the Center will be closed on Friday. If these two holidays fall on Sunday, the Center will be closed on Monday. Other holidays, such as July 4th, will be at the discretion of the St. Teresa School Board if they fall on a Saturday or Sunday. St. Teresa Child Care Center reserves the right to close due to low daily attendance, ie. Christmas Eve. Parents will be given advance notice should these events occur.

Inclement Weather

During inclement weather we realize how important reliable childcare is for families and we work hard to meet this need. However, due to winter weather in Iowa, there may be times when the Center has a late start or will have to be closed due to safety for our staff. Please look on Brightwheel, Facebook, and listen to KWWL-TV, or KVIK or KNEI  radio for announcements of St. Teresa Childcare Center closing.

During extreme winter weather conditions, such as when no travel is advised and/or when the plows have been pulled from the major highways, the Center reserves the right to close the entire day. Upon request of parents, the Director will provide a notification of late starts, early closings or complete day closing via text message or email message.

Enrollment Policies

Enrollment is based upon a first-come, first-serve basis. All information forms that are listed below must be completed and turned in to the Director/elementary principal before a child attends. As the child is under our care, the forms listed below will need to be updated annually, unless the family falls under the definition of “Homelessness.” In the event that an age group is full, a child’s name will be placed on a waiting list. As vacancies occur, pre-registered children will have first priority. Due to the operational needs of the Center (when space is limited or full), full-time children (at least 30 hours per week)  have priority over part-time and drop-in children. In the event an expectant mother is pre-registered and there is an opening prior to her child starting, the opening may be filled by a temporary child. Parents may call to check on the status of the waiting list. Required enrollment forms include:

• Intake Information Sheet
• Parental Emergency Medical Consent Form
• Health History Form
• Pick-up Permission Form
• Field Trip Permission Form
• Child Physical Form (signed by physician)
• Child Immunization Form (signed by physician)
• Photo Release
• Schedule Agreement
• Enrollment Form
• Free/Reduced Meals Application

Orientation

The orientation process is used to start to build a relationship between families and St. Teresa Child Care Center. One of the on-site administrators will work with families to complete the orientation process which will be completed by the end of a child’s first day. Parents will sign up through the Brightwheel app.We welcome questions or concerns at any time during the process. The orientation process will include the following steps:

• Parent Handbook and enrollment paperwork will be given to parents; portions of the Parent Handbook and enrollment paperwork will be explained by the Director.
• Tour of the Center will occur to include a more specific tour of the classrooms children are enrolling in.
• Introductions to classroom staff.
• The process of using the key fob to enter the building, checking in and out of the Brightwheel system, how to check the account balance on the Brightwheel app, parent mailbox system and parent drop off box location will be explained.
• An appointment will be scheduled to turn in the enrollment paperwork to ensure all required information is completed. Enrollment paperwork needs to be turned in one week prior to child(ren) starting at the Center to allow time to enter information into the Brightwheel as well as to provide specific information pertaining to children to classroom staff.
• Official start date is scheduled.
• Key fob is provided to families.
• The Director will be available the first day to offer any additional assistance or to provide further clarification on certain processes to ensure understanding.

Probationary Period 

Upon enrollment, each child is placed in a 2-week probationary period to ensure that the childcare arrangements are a good fit for the child, staff, and other families of the Center. During this time, the Center reserves the right to terminate care if the arrangements are not working. The Director or Assistant Director will notify the family verbally and in writing. The family will be given a reasonable time to work to correct or improve the explicitly defined deficiencies, unless these deficiencies are such that they are grounds for immediate dismissal. If satisfactory improvement does not result, childcare may be terminated.

During the probationary period, advance payment for scheduled hours may be requested. Hours used beyond scheduled hours will be added to the bill the following week.

Parent / Teacher Communication

We believe that parents are the child’s first teacher. We make every effort to keep you informed of all things that are going on with your child at the Center. Parents are encouraged to visit daily with their child’s teacher about how their day was, and how their general growth and development is going. Parents/guardians are encouraged to inform the Center of family issues, especially changes that may affect the child’s behavioral and/or emotional status so we can assist the child’s adjustment. This confidential information will be treated with respect and privacy. You may schedule a time to talk with your child’s teacher or meet with the Director at any time. Staff will communicate daily with parent/guardian regarding any needs or concerns via text, Brightwheel or verbal communication when parent arrives to pick up child.

Drop-in Service

Children must be pre-registered. See the Enrollment section for requirements. A minimum notice of 24 hours is required for drop-in care.

Suspension

The Director shall suspend any student when, in their opinion, in the best interest of the Center, other children and/or the student would be served by such action. A suspension shall continue until a follow-up conference between parents, child, teacher, on-site supervisor and Director has taken place. In all cases, a written record of the action shall be maintained by the Director and included in the child's folder.

Dismissal / Withdrawals

A child may be dismissed permanently from the Center for serious misconduct, unacceptable behavior, behavior that endangers other children and/or a refusal by the child or parent(s) to demonstrate a cooperative attitude. However, before such action is taken, a conference with parent(s), Director and Assistant Director will take place. Dismissal is to be used as a last resort after all disciplinary action and cooperative efforts between the child, parent(s), teacher and administrators have been exhausted. The Director will make this decision. Balances are still due regardless of dismissal. Discharge from the Center will occur for the following reasons:

• Unpaid tuition;
• Enrollment paperwork is not completed and returned when requested;
• Center policies and procedures are not being observed;
• Center and staff cannot provide the type of care a child may need.
• Continued, willful disobedience to Center personnel.
• Open and persistent defiance, either in language or actions, of Center personnel
• Violence towards others.
• The use of profanity and vulgarities.
• Willfully defacing or damaging property, real or personal, belonging to the Center, its personnel or other children.
• Carrying or use of weapons or instruments designed to cause bodily harm on STCCCC premises.
• Striking a teacher or staff member, or other personnel.
• Bullying; words, actions or intentions meant to harm another child.
• Behavior that is invasive to another child or individual’s person that would be considered inappropriate sexual behavior.

Families who have notified the Center that they will no longer need childcare services will be required to make final payment of fees on or before their child’s last day of attendance at the Center.

Nondiscrimination Policy

St. Teresa Child Care Center is an equal opportunity provider. Applications for enrollment are considered without regard to race, religion, color, gender, nation origin, disabling conditions, or any other basis prohibited by law. The Center will follow the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) as required by law. Accommodations will be made for disabilities within the Center’s financial resources.

Legal Status of Children 

If a child’s legal status, such as their name or custodial arrangement, should change during the school year, the parent or guardian must notify the Center. We need to know when these changes occur to ensure that we have a current enrollment record.

Arrival and Departure

Parents are required to check each child in upon arrival and leave the child in the care of a staff member. Parents are responsible for notifying staff upon departure. Your cooperation will ensure the safety of your child. A child will only be released to those persons authorized to pick up the child and the caregiver may request identification before releasing the child. The Director must receive written permission if someone other than the persons on the Pick-Up Permission form is picking up the child. In cases of divorce, it is important that the registering parent indicates on the Enrollment Information who has legal custody and who may pick up the child. In cases of sole custody, the parent with the custody will be required to provide the Center with a copy of the divorce decree for the child’s file. If any changes or additions need to be made on who may drop off or pick-up the child, these changes must be in writing. Parents should check their child’s cubby for artwork, notes, receipts, etc. If drop off time is after 11:30 and before 2:00, your child needs to have eaten lunch and be prepared to lay down for a nap, unless further communication has been discussed with the Director.

To keep children’s schedules consistent, our drop-off time is 9:30am. This means, children must be at the center at or before 9:30am, unless scheduled prior.

Termination Procedure 

Parents are required to notify the Director in writing when their child will no longer attend the Center. A two-week written notice is required. In the event this is not possible, the parents will be charged for 2 weeks, based on the average week or at the Director’s discretion. St. Teresa of Calcutta Child Care Center reserves the right to terminate child care without notice.

Billing & Tuitions

**RATES INCLUDE REGISTRATION, CLEANING FEES, BREAKFAST, LUNCH, & SNACK**

Collection Of Fees

If delinquent up to $500: Childcare services will be denied until a payment is made and further action may take place. The Advisory Committee reminds those enrolling children in the program that you will be responsible for the payment of fees for the time reserved for the child whether or not the child is in attendance. Non-payment is grounds for dismissal. Payments not received as required will result in immediate refusal of service until payment is made in full.

Re-Admission Policy For Delinquent Accounts

Families who leave the Center with outstanding fees due for childcare services shall only be readmitted to the Center under the following terms and conditions.

• All balances on delinquent accounts are paid in full.
• All  requests for re-enrollment at the Center must be approved by administration. It is the discretion of the Director to determine if a special meeting will be called to consider the request.
• Special payment terms for the past due fees will be established between the family and the Center Director.
• Families re-entering the Center will be required to pay tuition fees in advance as agreed upon with the Director. Payment will be in the form of cash or a certified check. If payment is not received as described, services will be denied and the family will not be allowed to return to the Center until paid in advance.
• Administration has the right to deny any or all requests for re-admission to the Center without cause.

Early Drop Off and Late Pick-up Fees

A cost of $1.00 per minute per child will be charged for picking up children past the scheduled time. A ten-minute grace period may be allowed. No grace period is allowed at the end of the day. Please call if you know you will be late.

Rate Increases

St. Teresa Child Care Center reserves the right to increase the child care rates with a 30 day notice.

Schedules and Notification

At the time of registration, a bi-weekly schedule for the child must be completed. Bi-weekly schedules need to be turned in no later than 8:00 a.m. on the first of the month and the 15th of the month. If your child will not be attending a week, a schedule still must be completed with the notation “off all week.”

Changes In Schedule

If you need a day of care that wasn't scheduled, you must request the addition in writing. We will respond in writing to each request. All requests are subject to availability. Administration may deny schedule changes that are submitted less than two weeks in advance. If they are accepted, an additional fee may occur.

Sick Days

If your children are sick, please keep them home. Children who are absent on their scheduled day due to illness will be charged for that day unless a tuition-free day is used. Staff have been scheduled and allocated to work regardless of your child(ren)’s absence. You need to notify the Center by 8:00 a.m. if your child will be absent. Please call the Center at 563.532.9250.

Signing In and Out 

Parents must sign their children in and out using a QR code that is printed at the front door, back door, and on the parent information board. Any approved individual picking up a child other than a parent may seek assistance from a staff member in signing in or out but will still be responsible for signing the children in or out.

A daily attendance record is kept listing the times of arrival/departure of the child as well as the person dropping off and picking up. A parent/guardian will be notified via the Brightwheel App within an hour of a child’s scheduled arrival time if there is no communication from the parent/guardian about the child’s absence.

If a visitor attends the center they must provide their name, date and time of arrival and departure, the reason for visiting, and contact information along with a signature. If a child doesn’t show up for two days in a row and parents/guardians are unable to get ahold of, the director will contact law enforcement to do a well child check.

Fundraisers & Fees

Fundraisers

Parents are expected to participate in fundraisers while their child attends St. Teresa Child Care Center. Those who do not participate will be assessed $50.00. Parents are expected to volunteer a minimum of 2 hours per family during the year. This can be done at Ossian Fest, the Dairy Bar during the fair, Back to School night supper, and other fundraising events held throughout the year.

Other Fees

Parents will be responsible for bringing diapers, diaper cream, wipes, baby food, extra clothing, and formula/breast milk for their child. During the summer months, children aged 2 and above may participate in field trips at an additional cost.

Security & Access

Visiting The Center

Visitors are encouraged to visit our Center at any time, even unannounced. We ask that they bring a photo ID along and will sign in and out on the visitor log that is located by the clock-in/out station, stating time in/out, their reason for visiting, and contact information. They will be greeted by a staff member and will receive a visitor badge. Parents are allowed unlimited access to their children during normal hours of operation. We are very proud of the work our staff does with your children and we would love for you to become part of our child care community!

Access Policy 

Centers are responsible for ensuring the safety of children at the Center and preventing harm by being proactive and diligent in supervising not only the children, but other people present at the facility.

• Any person in the Center who is not a staff member, substitute, or subcontracted staff or volunteer, who has not had a record check and approval to be involved with child care, shall not have access to children for whom that person is not the parent, guardian, or custodian, nor be counted in the staff to child ratio.
• “Unrestricted access” means that a person has contact with a child alone or is directly responsible for child care. *It is imperative that Centers not allow people who have not had a record check assume child care responsibilities or be alone with children. This directly relates both to child safety and liability to the Center.
• Persons who do not have unrestricted access will be under the direct “supervision” and “monitoring” of a paid staff member at all times and will not be allowed to assume any child care responsibilities. The primary responsibility of the supervision and monitoring will be assumed by the teacher unless he/she delegates it to the teacher assistant due to a conflict of interest with the person.
• “Supervision” means to be in charge of an individual engaged with children in an activity or task and ensure that they perform it correctly. “Monitoring” means to be in charge of ensuring proper conduct of others.
• Center staff will approach anyone who is on the property of the Center without their knowledge to ask what their purpose is. If staff is unsure about the reason they will contact the Director or another management staff to get approval for the person to be on site. If it becomes a dangerous situation, staff will follow the “intruder in the Center” procedures. Non-agency persons who are on the property for other reasons such as maintenance, repairs, etc. will be monitored by paid staff and will not be allowed to interact with the children on premise. If it becomes a dangerous situation, staff will follow the “intruder” procedures.
• A sex offender who has been convicted of a sex offense against a minor (even if the sex offender is the parent, guardian, or custodian) who is required to register with the Iowa sex offender registry (Iowa Code 692A):
  • Shall not operate, manage, be employed by, or act as a contractor or volunteer at the Child Care Center.
  • Shall not be on the property of the Child Care Center without the written permission of the Center Director, except for the time reasonably necessary to transport the offender’s own minor child or ward to and from the Center.
  • The Center is not obligated to provide written permission.
  • If written permission is granted it shall include the conditions under which the sex offender may be present, including:
  • The precise location in the Center where the sex offender may be present.
  • The reason for the sex offender’s presence at the facility.
  • The duration of the sex offender’s presence.
  • Description of how the Center staff will supervise the sex offender to ensure that the sex offender is not left alone with a child.
  • The written permission shall be signed and dated by the Director and offender.

Security System

A secure door system is in place at both the front and back door entrance. The building is secure at all times during hours of operation. A key fob will be needed to gain entry access to the building. This system is in place to ensure the safety of children at all times. Families will receive two key fobs at the start of enrollment. Please do not share the fob with anyone not authorized to pick up children. If a fob is damaged or lost, the Center will charge a $10 fee to replace it.

Video Surveillance Cameras

The St. Teresa of Calcutta School, along with the South Winneshiek School District, has authorized the use of video cameras on school district premises and school district transportation. The video cameras will be used to monitor and record student behavior to maintain order on school premises and school transportation and to promote and maintain a safe environment. Students and parents are hereby notified that the content of the video recordings may be used in a student disciplinary investigation and/or proceeding. The content of the video recordings may be confidential student records and may be retained with other student records. Video recordings may be retained if necessary for use in a student disciplinary investigation and/or proceeding or other matter as deemed necessary by the administration. Parents may request to view video recordings of their child if the video recordings are used in a disciplinary proceeding involving their child.

Dress Code

Please dress children appropriately for the season. Parents may want to send a sweater/sweatshirt to keep at the Center for cool days. Sandals without backs, such as flip-flops are not allowed and any crocs worn must have the movable strap worn on the back to hold the heel in place.

Daily Center Schedule

Ones

• 6:00-7:30 AM —  Arrival & Quiet Play Time
• 7:30-8:00 AM —  Breakfast & Hand Washing
• 8:00-9:00 AM —  Centers
• 9:00-9:30 AM —  Crafts
• 9:30-10:30 AM —  Outside Play (as weather permits) 
• 10:30-11:00AM —  Hand Washing & Quiet Play
• 11:00-11:30 AM —  Lunch
• 11:30-2:00 PM —  Quiet Time/Nap Time
• 2:00-3:30 PM —  Snack Time & Free Play
• 3:30-6:00 PM —  Outside Play (as weather permits) 

Twos

• 6:00-7:30 AM —  Arrival & Quiet Play Time
• 7:30-8:00 AM —  Breakfast & Hand Washing
• 8:00-8:30 AM —  Circle Time (with music & movement)
• 8:30-9:30 AM —  Centers
• 9:30-10:30 AM —  Outside Play (as weather permits)
• 10:30-11:00 AM —  Hand Washing & Quiet Play
• 11:00-11:30 AM —  Lunch
• 11:30-2:00 PM —  Quiet Time/Nap Time
• 2:00-4:00 PM —  Snack Time & Outside Play (as weather permits)
• 4:00-6:00 PM —  Free Play & Pick Up

Preschool

• 6:00-7:30 AM —  Free Play
• 7:30-8:00 AM —  Breakfast
• 8:00-8:15 AM —  Table Activities
• 8:15-8:30 AM —  Music and Movements
• 8:30-9:00 AM —  Morning Meeting
• 9:00-10:00 AM —  Centers
• 10:00-10:20 AM —  Small Group
• 10:20-10:30 AM —  Bathroom Break
• 10:30-11:00 AM —  Outside Play/Free Play
• 11:00-11:30 AM —  Lunch
• 11:30 AM-12:00 PM —  Read Aloud and Bathroom Break
• 12:00-1:30 PM —  Rest Time
• 1:30-2:00 PM —  Snack/Bathroom Break
• 2:00--3:10 PM —  Centers/Outside Play
• 3:10-3:30 PM —  Closing Group and Bathroom Breaks
• 3:30-6:00 PM —  Outside/Free Play

School Age

• 6:00-7:30 AM —  Free Play
• 7:30-8:00 AM —  Breakfast
• 8:00-8:30 AM —  Math Strategies/Games
• 8:30-9:30 AM —  Daily Activity
• 9:30-10:30 AM —  Outside Play/Free Play
• 10:30-11:00 AM —  Books/Puzzles
• 11:00-11:15 AM —  Clean Up and Bathroom Break
• 11:15 AM-12:00 PM —  Lunch
• 12:00-12:30 PM —  Brain Games
• 12:30-1:00 PM —  Teacher Read Aloud/Reading Time
• 1:00-2:00 PM —  Centers
• 2:00-2:30 PM —  Outside Play/Free Play
• 2:30-3:00 PM —  Snack Time
• 3:00-6:00 PM —  Outside Play/Free Play

Schedules are subject to change depending on children’s dispositions, sleep patterns, and weather conditions.

Health & Safety

State licensing regulations require that each child admitted have a medical examination on file upon entrance. The examination must have been obtained within the last three months. Annual health updates are required thereafter.

State law requires immunizations to be recorded on a special form (included in the registration packet) and signed by a health official. Please inform the director/principal of the dates immunizations are given after enrollment so your child’s medical file remains current.

St. Teresa of Calcutta is a tobacco-free campus. No tobacco products are allowed in the Center, in the outdoor play area, or in any vehicle used to transport the children.

Playground

Playground safety training will take place upon hiring in orientation and reviewed annually in a staff meeting. Playground equipment is installed following manufacturer’s instructions, including anchoring instructions, and is inspected annually by the insurance agent. Rubber mulch fall surfacing will be maintained to 6” in depth, per the guidelines In Caring For Our Children, Appendix Z.

Regular safety observations will be made by staff during usage using the playground safety checklist. The safety checklist includes: missing broken parts, protrusion of nuts and bolts, rust and chipping or peeling paint, sharp edges/splinters/rough surfaces, stability of handholds, visible cracks, stability of non-anchored equipment (playhouses, etc.), wear and deterioration, safety hazards such as stinging insect nests/broken bottles/broken toys/discarded cigarettes/compacted fall surfacing, checking fall surfacing is at required depth.  Concerns will be brought to the attention of the Director and she will notify persons necessary to make repairs. Fall surfacing will be monitored for depth and safety and reported if inadequate. If safety hazards cannot be fixed right away, staff will remove the children from the area until the hazards are removed and it is safe to resume play.

Emergency Procedures

Fire and tornado drills will be held according to Iowa DHHS guidelines. Crisis drills will also be held throughout the course of the year. Staff will instruct and practice with their children how to proceed in case of an emergency. Fire and tornado evacuation procedures are posted in all rooms, as well as crisis procedures. These drills are practiced on a monthly basis.

Missing Child Policy

In the case of a missing child the Center Director will notify the parent/guardian, local authorities/law enforcement, the Child Abuse Hotline, and Iowa DHHS, including location of where child was last seen, the last image of the child with a description of what that child is wearing, and will provide a completed incident report that will be kept on file and reported to DHHS as needed. The Director will search the premises while staff stay with the children. St.Teresa of Calcutta Child Care Center takes preventive measures such as:

• matching shirts for field trips
• taking pictures of children on the day of the field trip
• staff count children frequently with name-to-face count
• completing drills for lost children
• talking to older children about what to do if they become separated from the group
• Each staff member is held accountable for positive identification when entering new vehicles, building, playgrounds, field trip locations, in which children arrive and when they are leaving, to be sure no child is overlooked
• Stranger danger is reviewed before field trips, as well as how to report to an adult.
• An incident report will be completed by the Director/staff.

Strangulation Prevention

Though you wouldn't think so, strangulation poses a very real threat to children.

But like all accidents, strangulation can be prevented by applying a few simple safety measures that we practice at the Center.

• String and cords long enough to encircle a child’s neck will not be accessible. If a child brings strings or cords from home, the parents will be encouraged to take them before they leave at drop off. If the parent does not take them, the items will be stored in an inaccessible place until the child goes home.
• Window blinds and draperies will not have looped cords. Cordless blinds will be used instead.
• Tension or tie-down devices will be installed as appropriate to hold cords tight.
• Dramatic play items with handles or straps will be removed or shortened. Ties, scarves, necklaces, and boas for dramatic play will only be used by children under the age of three when directly supervised.
• Pacifiers attached to strings/ribbon/toys will not be used.
• Parents will be asked to remove hood and neck strings from all children’s clothing.
• If lanyards are used by older children and staff, they will be the break-away type.

Supervision

During play within the Center, as well as outdoors, staff will be within sight and sound of children. They will actively supervise in both indoor and outdoor playground settings, meaning they will position themselves without their backs turned to the children, they will move around the room frequently engaging and redirecting children as needed, and they will use name-to-face to periodically scan the room and keep head counts. During bathroom use, the door will either be left open and/or the teacher will communicate with the child. Staff will be trained annually in active supervision at a staff meeting and new staff will be trained during their orientation.Staff will actively supervise using sight and sound during play.

Staff utilizes Brightwheel to complete a name-to-face check for all children hourly as well as anytime they leave the building and enter again.

Water play at the Center may include sensory tables, sprinklers, etc but will not include standing water. During sensory tables activities and sprinkler play in the summer, staff will remain within arms reach of the children at all times.

Children may be around bodies of water during field trips or engage in swimming activities, there will be a 1-to-1 supervision ratio for infants and toddlers. For preschool-age children the ratio would be 1 staff for 4 children. Toddlers and preschoolers will be within an arm’s length of the supervisor. Ratios for school-aged children will be 1 staff for 6 children. The required ratio of adults to older children will be met without including the adults who are required for supervision of infants and/or toddlers. There will be active supervision at all times during water plays.

Hawk-I Insurance for Children

Parents can apply for low or no-cost health insurance for their children through the state’s Iowa Total Care, formerly known as HAWK-I, program. Children, birth to 19, who meet certain criteria, are eligible. The coverage includes doctor’s visits, hearing services, dental care, prescriptions, immunizations, physical therapy, vision care, speech therapy and hospital services to name a few. Parents are urged to call 1-833-404-1061 (toll free) or go to the web site at iowatotalcare.com for more information.

Administration of Medication 

• All prescription medications given at the Center MUST have the doctor’s instructions and MUST be in the original containers.
• The first dose of a new medication MUST be given at home with sufficient time before the child returns to childcare to observe their response to the medication given. When your child is ill with a communicable disease, children are required to be on medication for at least 24 hours before returning to childcare. This is for the protection of the child who is ill, as well as the other children in childcare.
• Non-prescription medicine will NOT be allowed to be given to any child at the Center at any time. Non-prescription medication MUST be given at home before coming to the Center. If this is done please communicate the time and dose given to your child’s lead teacher.
• In all cases, parents must completely fill out the Medication Request form including the physician's instructions.
• The staff will administer medication and complete the log on the Medication Request form at the time of administering the medication.
• Medications given in the center will be administered by a staff member who has had training in proper medication administration.
• All medication will be stored away from the reach of children but within access to all staff.
• All medication must be given DIRECTLY to the Director or lead teacher of the child’s age group.

Medications will be stored in a safe, locked area. Refrigeration is available. This includes medications that are given on a daily basis for short or extended periods, as well as medications that are given just on an “as needed” basis. These may be kept at the center or returned home daily. Unused or expired medication will be returned to the parent or guardian when it is no longer needed or able to be used by the child.

Student Illness or Injury Policy

All child care personnel are prepared to implement immediate and appropriate response to a medical or dental emergency. Staff and the Director have been trained in Infant and Child CPR and Pediatric First [16] Aid. A first aid kit is located in each room and supplied at all times. The kit is checked and restocked on a monthly basis and after each use.

Each child shall have direct contact with a staff person upon arrival for early detection of apparent illness, communicable disease, or unusual condition or behavior that may adversely affect the child or the group. The Center will post notice on the classroom door where it is visible to parents and the public of exposure of a child receiving care by the Center to a communicable disease, the symptoms, and the period of communicability. The Center will use universal precautions with the handling of any bodily excrement or discharge, including blood and breast milk. A child who becomes ill or is injured at the Center must notify the staff as soon as possible. In the case of a serious illness or injury, we shall attempt to notify the parents according to the information on the emergency form to seek authorization for emergency medical or dental care. If the child is too ill to remain in school, the child will be released to their parents or, with parental permission, to another person directed by the parents.

While the Center is not responsible for treating medical and dental emergencies, employees may administer emergency or minor first aid if possible. The Center will contact emergency medical personnel, if necessary, and attempt to notify the parents where the child has been transported for treatment.

The financial responsibility for the child’s emergency care and/or transportation is the parents. Parents shall be required to supply written emergency medical information annually. Parents are responsible for keeping this information current.

An incident report shall be completed after each injury and signed by the adult witness to the injury, the . A copy of the incident report will be sent home to parents.

Quiet Area For Ill Children

The Center shall provide a quiet area in the room away from activity for a child who appears to be ill or injured. The area shall be supervised by the adult in the room until the child can be picked up by a caregiver.

Communicable and Infectious Diseases

Your child’s health and the health of all children attending the Center is important to us. To help reduce the spread of illness the children’s and the staff’s hands will be washed with antibacterial soap on a regular basis. Children are required to wash hands after using the restroom, before and after eating, after being outside, after blowing their nose, and after touching animals. Small children will be supervised and assisted. Children who are ill should not be brought to the Center. School-aged children who are absent from school due to illness should not attend the Center. Children should be able to participate in daily activities, not compromise the health and safety of other children, or demand greater care than staff can provide. Alert the staff if your child has been exposed to a communicable disease. We do not have the staff or facilities to care for a child if they are too ill to participate in regular activities. Please remember if your child is too sick to go outside, they are too sick to be at the Center.

A child may not attend child care or may be sent home if the following conditions exist:

1. The illness prevents the child from participating comfortably in the activities planned.
2. The illness results in a greater care need than the staff can provide without compromising the health and safety of the children.
3. The child has one of the following conditions:
   • Fever of 100.0° or greater oral, accompanied by behavior changes or signs or symptoms of illness until medical professional evaluation finds the child able to return to the Center. Children must be fever-free without Tylenol for 24 hours before returning to the Center.
   • Symptoms or signs of possible severe illness such as unusual lethargy, uncontrolled coughing, inexplicable irritability or persistent crying or fussiness, difficulty breathing, wheezing, or other unusual signs for the child.
   • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV);
   • Diarrhea, defined as a loose, watery, and frequent stools- 3 or more loose stools within 24 hours. Children with diarrheal illness of infectious origin generally may be allowed to return to child care once the diarrhea resolves, except for children with diarrhea caused by Norovirus, Salmonella typhi, Shigella, or E. Coli
   • 0157:H7. For Salmonella typhi, three negative stool cultures are required. For Shigella, or E. Coli 0157:H7, two negative stool cultures are required taken at least 24 hours apart. If treated with antibiotics, samples should not be taken less than 48 hours after therapy is done;
   • Norovirus, children not in diapers and child center staff with diarrhea and/or vomiting should remain at home until 24 hours after diarrhea and/or vomiting cease, or until stools are formed. Children in diapers should remain at home for three days following cessation of diarrhea and/or vomiting and until stools are formed;
   • Blood in stools not explainable by dietary change, hard stools, or, medications that may cause gastrointestinal damage such as ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin;
   • Persistent abdominal pain (continues more than two hours) or intermittent pain associated with fever or other signs or symptoms;
   • Vomiting within the last 24 hours, until vomiting resolves or until a health care provider determines that the cause of the vomiting is not contagious and the child is not in danger of dehydration;
   • Mouth sores with drooling unless a health care provider determines the condition noninfectious
   • Rash with fever or behavior change, until a health care provider determines that these symptoms do not indicate a communicable disease;
   • Pink or red conjunctiva with white or yellow discharge until 24 hours after treatment
   • Scabies, or other infestation until 24 hours after treatment
   • Head lice, until the child has been treated and there are no nits;
   • Tuberculosis until medically cleared by a physician
   • Impetigo until 24 hours after treatment
   • Strep throat or other streptococcal infection until 24 hours after initial antibiotic treatment and cessation of fever
   • Chickenpox until all sores have dried and crusted
   • Pertussis until 5 days of appropriate antibiotic treatment has been completed or 21 days of cough if no antibiotics are given;
   • Mumps until 9 days after onset of parotid gland swelling
   • Hepatitis A until 1 week after onset of illness or as directed by the health department when passive immunoprophylaxis has been administered to appropriate children and staff
   • Measles until 6 days after onset of rash
   • Rubella until 6 days after onset of rash
   • Unspecified respiratory tract illness
   • Herpes simplex, children with herpetic gingivostomatitis, an infection of the mouth caused by the herpes simplex virus, who do not have control of oral secretions, shall be excluded from child care. Children with mild cases who do have control of their mouth secretions may not have to be excluded; or
   • Meningitis (bacterial), child may return to child care 24 hours after starting antibiotics.
   • In the event of a communicable disease outbreak, such as strep throat or chickenpox, a sign will be posted on all exit doors. If a child becomes ill while at the Center, a parent will be notified. The child will be taken to a quiet area to rest until the parent can pick the child up. We request the child to be picked up within an hour of being notified, by a parent or someone on the approved pick up list.

Potty Training 

A child’s readiness for using the toilet can vary greatly. Please discuss your child’s toilet training routine with staff, as toilet training must begin at home. We strive to maintain consistency between home and center to assist in the toilet training process.

1. Only disposable diapers or pull-ups are allowed.
2. Diapering will only be done in the designated diaper area, i.e., the table in the corner of the room. Food handling will not be permitted in this diapering area.
3. Staff will follow all diapering guidelines as follows:
   • Clothes that are soiled by urine or feces are immediately placed in a plastic bag (without rinsing or unavoidable handling) and sent home that day for laundering.
   • Staff checks children for signs that diapers or pull-ups are wet or contain feces at least every 2 hours. Diapers are changed when wet or soiled.
   • Staff changes children’s diapers or soiled underwear in the designated changing areas and not elsewhere in the facility.
   • At all times, caregivers have a hand on the child, if being changed, on an elevated surface.
   • Surfaces used for changing and on which changing materials are placed are not used for other purposes, including temporary placement of other objects, and especially not for any object involved with food or feeding.
   • Containers that hold soiled diapers and diapering materials have a lid that opens and closes tightly using a hands-free device. Containers are kept closed and are inaccessible to children. The container will be clearly labeled to show its intended use. Soiled diapers are placed in containers separate from other waste.
   • Diapering and gloving posters will be posted in the changing area showing procedures through the use of visuals and words. These procedures are used by the program administrator to evaluate teaching staff that change diapers.
4. Potty chairs will not be used due to the risk of spreading infectious diarrhea.
5. All families are asked to provide an extra set of clothing for their child in case of an “accident” or messy play. Please clearly label the clothing with your child’s name.
6. Children will not be forced to sit on the potty if they don’t want to.
7. Children will be put in a pull up during nap time until they have gone 2 weeks with no accidents.

Breakfast / Lunch / Snacks

Breakfast is served beginning at 7:30 a.m. Lunch is served at 11:00 a.m. Afternoon snacks are served at 2:00 and 4:30 p.m. This cost for breakfast, lunch, and snack is included in the tuition fees. A Free/Reduced Meal Application needs to be completed and submitted so the Center can receive assistance with meal costs.

Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)

St. Teresa Child Care Center participates in the CACFP program, which is a federal child nutrition program administered by the Iowa Department of Educations’ Bureau of Nutrition and Health Services. The program provides a subsidy to eligible child care centers, preschools, after-school programs, head start and home child care providers for serving nutritious meals and snacks to infants and children in child care. CACFP contributes to the wellness, healthy growth, and development of young children and adults in the United States and plays an important role in improving the quality of child care, making care affordable for all. The vended meals, breakfast, lunch, and snacks are prepared at St. Teresa of Calcutta School and delivered to the Center on a daily basis. Snacks are provided in the afternoons. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are included in the tuition cost.

Exceptions are provided in the case of allergies, medical conditions, etc. A diet modification form is to be provided by your physician documenting the type of exception. Staff provides supervision at the table during snacks and meals.

Menus are sent home on a monthly basis and can be accessed on our district website and in the daycare rooms. It is suggested that parents not send their children candy, gum, etc. on a daily basis. Birthday treats or special occasion treats are welcome. Please send a note in advance, if possible, so we plan for this event.

Food brought from home must meet Child and Adult Care Food Program nutrition standards. Additional items to the child’s meal will be added at parent’s expense if the nutrition standards are not met. Perishable foods brought from home are maintained to prevent spoilage or contamination

Quiet Time / Naptime

The children are encouraged to rest after lunch. If they do not sleep, they are encouraged to lay quietly, either reading or engaged in a quiet activity. Cots and sheets will be provided and washed weekly for children. You may bring a blanket and pillow or a favorite stuffed animal for your child to use at quiet time. The Center is not responsible for lost or broken articles.

Clothing and Personal Belongings

Your child will have many opportunities to participate in a variety of activities at the Center. Simple, washable  clothing will allow your child to comfortably participate in all activities from messy art projects to playground fun.

The children experience outdoor physical activity daily when the weather permits. Please be sure to provide your child with appropriate clothing (hats, mittens, coats, boots, etc.) for outdoor play throughout all seasons of the year.  Please bring one complete change of clothing for your child to be left at the Center in case of accidents. Please include underwear, socks, pants, and shirts. Please label all personal clothing. Soiled clothing should be taken home and replaced with a fresh set the next day.

We ask that if your child chooses to bring an item from home, that the item be marked clearly with the child’s initials and/or name on it so it does not get mixed up in the items at the Center. The Center is not liable for any lost, stolen or broken items.

What Not to Let Your Child Bring 

There are several items we request that you do NOT allow your child to bring to the Center.

• Money
• Gum
• Videos
• Electronics
• Candy or Food
• Toys (especially guns or toys that facilitate violent play), unless children are bringing toys for show & tell.

If these items are brought, the staff will collect them, place them out of the child’s reach, and send them home. A staff member may request a parent take the item with them.

Program Specific Policies

Infant Policies (6 weeks to 12 months)

• Stimulations shall be provided through being held, rocked, played with, and talked to individually. The same adult will care for the same child as much as possible. We feel that bonding between caregiver and infant is an ideal situation.
• Each infant will be diapered as frequently as needed. When being changed, the infant shall be cleansed using individual, disposable toilet articles. The parents will provide all diapers, wipes, and diapering supplies that will be clearly marked with the child’s name.
• Daily activities that are found on the Brightwheel app. It will provide essential communication between parents and staff regarding the infant's care. Infants will be held during feeding.
• At no time will the infant be left alone with a bottle, especially while lying in a crib. Spoon-feeding will be used when it becomes developmentally appropriate.
• Parents will provide all baby food until the child can eat table food.
• Parents will provide the Center with ready-to-use formula or breast milk in bottles.
• All bottles will be kept refrigerated within the Infant Room until the child is fed.
• All food supplies brought from home will be clearly marked with the child’s name.
• Each child has a crib of their own with a space for their belongings. The Center provides bedding, sleep sacks, bibs and burp cloths. We ask parents to bring the following.
• Disposable diapers only. If parents forget to bring diapers, a $1.00 diaper fee will be added to your account per each diaper used.
• Three changes of extra clothing.
• Baby wipes and diaper rash cream
• Bottles, formula and/or breast milk. Parents bring the number of bottles their child will need during his/her daily attendance. The bottles must be labeled with the child’s name. The bottles will be washed at the Center at the end of each day. Children under the age of one must be on formula or breast milk. Extra breast milk must be labeled with the infant’s full name and dated accordingly. It is the parent’s responsibility to check the infant's formula/breast milk supply.
• Infant cereal and baby food. Please supply enough food for at least one week of care. It is the parent’s responsibility to check the infant's cereal and food supply.

Infant Safe Sleep Policy

All staff, substitute staff, and volunteers at St. Teresa Child Care Center are trained on this policy and follow the safe sleep recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC), as well as the guidelines in IQ4K for infants to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) and to prevent accidental sleep related infant deaths. SIDS is the sudden death of an infant under 1 year of age, which remains unexplained after a thorough investigation. SUID includes all unexpected deaths; those from a known and unknown causes. An example of SUID is infant suffocation during sleep. The Center will use the following to help keep your baby safe during sleep:

• Sleeping infants will be actively observed by sight and sound. There will always be a staff member present on the sleeping side of our infant room. A sleep check will be entered into our Brightwheel App every hour that the child is sleeping.
• Infants, 12 months and younger, will always be placed flat on their backs for routine sleep - naps. An infant cannot be placed in another position without a waiver, signed and dated, from the child’s primary physician requiring such for medical need. The waiver must have an expiration date.
• Only one infant will be placed to sleep in each crib with no bed-sharing. Siblings, including twins and triplets, will be placed in separate cribs.
• Infants will be placed on a firm mattress, with a tight fitted sheet, in a crib that meets the CPSC federal requirements CFR 1219 for full-size cribs and CFR 1220 for non-full size cribs. Infants will NOT sleep on couches, adult beds, recliners or other soft surfaces.
• Each infant under 12 months will have a crib labeled with their name and abilities. Every Friday, and as need in between, the crib sheets will be removed and the mattresses will be disinfected. Cribs will be labeled with the child’s name and ability.
• No toys, soft objects, stuffed animals, pillows, bumper pads, boppy pillows, blankets, quilts, or sheepskins will be in the sleep environment including nothing draped over or attached to the crib.  Only tight fitting sheets will be used.
• Any potential hazards that the child may be wearing should be removed such as bibs, hoodies, etc.
• Devices such as wedges or infant positioners will not be used. The AAP has found no evidence that these devices are safe and their use may increase the risk of suffocation.
• The use of home monitors or commercial devices marketed to reduce the risk of SIDS/SUID will not be used. Staff will be within sight and sound at all times to supervise and monitor sleeping infants.
• To avoid overheating, the temperature of the room where infants sleep will be monitored and kept at a level that is comfortable for a lightly clothed adult.  Infants will be monitored for overheating. Signs of overheating include sweating or feeling warm to the touch.
• If extra warmth is needed,  sleep sacks will be used as an alternative to blankets.
• Swaddling is not necessary or recommended in the child care setting, therefore our center staff will not do it. The risks of swaddling include overheating, hip dysplasia and SIDS.
• Infants may use a pacifier during sleep with parent permission. Nothing should be attached to the pacifier including a clip, string, cord, or stuffed toy. Pacifiers may not be attached to the infant’s clothing.
• If the infant falls asleep anyplace other than a crib (i.e. bouncy chair, car seat, swing, highchair, or when being held) the infant will be immediately moved to a crib and placed flat on their back.
• Infants who arrive sleeping will be removed from their carseats and placed in their crib flat on their back.
• Our child care program is smoke free. Smoking/vaping is not allowed in Iowa child care businesses.
• Sleeping infants will be actively observed by sight and sound.
• When infants are able to roll back and forth from front to back, the infant will be placed on their back for sleep and allowed to assume a preferred sleep position once they are over 4 months old.
• Several times a day, awake infants will have supervised “tummy time” to assist in the development of strong back and neck muscles and to prevent the development of flat areas on the back of the head.
• Crib bedding is changed weekly or more often if needed. Cribs are labeled with each infant’s name and the manufacturer certificate is on file.

Parents will review and sign this policy upon enrolling their infant at St. Teresa Calcutta Child Care Center.

Safe Sleep: Reducing the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Other Sleep Related Infant Death brochure is available at www.iowasids.org phone: 515-965-7655 email: info@iowasids.org.

Toddlers & Older

Each day children will be exposed to developmentally appropriate activities in a variety of areas. In addition, field trips and special activities will be planned on occasions. Creative Curriculum is used in classrooms. Each child has a cot of their own and a cubby for their belongings. We ask parents to bring the following:

Disposable diapers or pull-ups. If parents forget to bring diapers or pull ups, a $1.00 diaper/pull-up fee will be added to your account per each diaper/pull-up used.

• Baby wipes and diaper rash cream
• Three changes of extra clothes
• Blanket and/or stuffed animal

Preschoolers (3-5 Year Olds)

During the time frame when 3 & 4 year preschool is not in operation, the classroom will be used for childcare. If you have enrolled your child in the 3 & 4 year preschool program, a separate handbook for this program will be provided to you.

Each child has a cot of their own and a cubby for their belongings. We ask that parents bring the following:

• Two changes of extra clothing
• Blanket and/or stuffed animal
• A backpack

The preschool room will provide a learning environment filled with a variety of activities including arts and crafts, cooking, music, dance, fingerplays, games, puzzles, blocks, manipulatives, large group and small group time, dramatic play, free play, gross motor and fine motor skills, outdoor play and stories. Activities in the classroom are a combination of staff and child-initiated activities.

School Age (5-12 Year Olds): 

Children aged three through twelve may participate in our Before and After School and Summer Programs. We provide care to school age children during late starts, early dismissals, school in-services, school cancellations and on other scheduled non school days. We do not provide care to school age children when they are ill. Before and After School children participate in free choice activities and or/complete homework.The school bus picks children up from the Center at approximately 8:00 a.m. each day and drops them off at the Center at approximately 3:30 PM on regular school days. Children attending the Center in the afternoon receive a snack.

A special program is planned for School Age children in the summer including a variety of age appropriate activities and field trips away from the Center.

Bullying & Discipline

Bullying Prevention for School Age Children

Bullying is an unwanted, aggressive behavior that may be or has potential to be repeated. Our center takes bullying very seriously and does not allow it within our program. Parents and staff receive the bullying policy via this handbook and are encouraged to share it with their students/children.

• In regards to bullying, our staff are expected to:
  • Maintain ratio requirements
  • Actively interact with the children to intervene quickly if children begin to bully
  • Inform the director or assistant director of any bullying instances
  • Document any bullying behaviors that may occur, as well as speak with the children’s parents to come up with a plan of action
  • Staff will be given this policy upon employment, and reviewed as needed at staff meetings annually.
    • Staff are required to report any bullying behavior
• In regards to bullying, our parents are expected to:
  • Discuss with children about the importance of being kind to their peers to prevent bullying incidents
  • Report to our Director if they know of any bullying that occurs
• In regards to bullying, students are expected to:
  • Be respectful to their peers
  • Let an adult know right away if bullying occurs
• Administration will keep documentation addressing who, what, when, where and how parties involved were affected.

Discipline Policy

All staff members at the St. Teresa of Calcutta Child Care Center will follow the guidelines of discipline outlined in the Iowa DHHS Daycare Center Standards and Procedures (section 109.7 Discipline). Staff will be trained on policies about discipline and behavior at orientation and all staff will review these policies annually at a staff meeting. Parents will receive an overview of discipline/behavior policies at enrollment and they will be reviewed at yearly registration.

Under no circumstances will corporal punishment including spanking, slapping, and shaking be used. If your child is exhibiting unacceptable behavior, a conference will be scheduled with your child’s caregiver and/or Director.  When meeting with the parent(s), the Director will discuss a reasonable period of time for resolution of the situation. If a child continues to exhibit unacceptable or bullying behavior, and requires a great amount of staff guidance, we will meet with the parents to address the problem and work together to find a solution. The Center encourages parents to share any observations, questions, or suggestions they may have in dealing with the child.  If a workable solution cannot be found, it may result in dismissal from our program.

Bullying will not be tolerated. Parents will be notified of bullying behaviors, including threats, spreading rumors, physical attacks, or repeated exclusion of a targeted child/children.

Please notify the Director if your child is experiencing any changes in the home environment that may result in behavioral changes at the Center.  Our goal is to provide all children with a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment.

Encouraging Positive Behavior

All staff members contribute to the Center’s friendly, inviting environment. We set the tone through our actions and attitudes. When minor misbehavior occurs, staff views the misbehavior as a teaching opportunity, responding with calm, consistent corrections. Teachers work with the children in our care to build a positive relationship by teaching the child self-regulating techniques, coping skills, problem solving, etc. Staff receive mandatory training upon employment that teaches positive relationships (i.e, Passport to Early Childhood, Essentials Child Care Preservice Online Series).We consistently teach students expectations for responsible behavior in everyday environments by relating student actions to our guidelines for success and by showing how to :

• Be Responsible
  • Follow directions
  • Use self-control
  • Be honest
• Show Respect
  • Be polite
  • Use manners
  • Accept individual differences
• Do Your Best
  • Always try
• Help the Rest
  • Cooperate
  • Share

If a child exhibits challenging behavior, they will be redirected to a new task when possible. The staff member will talk with the child about his or her behavior and model positive alternatives. If the child continues to have challenging behavior, the staff member may ask the child’s parent to talk to them about the behavior at home. The staff member will document the conversation and let the director know.

Staff will be trained on Positive Behavior and Guidance at orientation and annually at a staff meeting.

Biting Policy

At St. Teresa of Calcutta Child Care Center, we aim to provide a nurturing and stimulating learning environment. The children are growing and learning, and unfortunately biting can occur. We know that this is a natural, developmentally appropriate behavior but it results in hurt feelings and frustration. Biting can occur for many reasons such as frustration from not being able to communicate their needs, teething, figuring out how to play with others, and not knowing how to share yet. All of us at St. Teresa’s want to do our part to end the behavior as quickly as possible. Our response:

• When applicable, the teacher will step in to stop any biting that is about to occur by staying close, separating the children, and/or redirection.
• The child will be told “No biting. Biting hurts.” and given something else to chew on such as a teether, or given a pillow to hug if that is what they prefer.
• First aid will be provided for the child who was bitten and they will be consoled and comforted.
• The child will sit down with the teacher and read a book such as, Teeth Are Not For Biting by Elizabeth Verdickoffsite. We encourage parents to read books such as these at home as well, to help the child make connections.
• An incident or ouch report will be written for each child for the parents to sign.
• If the biting continues, the Center will contact Keystone AEA to come and observe the child and give us their suggestions.
• If the biting does not show improvement, the Center reserves the right to ask the family to find a different program that better suits the child’s needs.

Additional Policies

Field Trips and Non-Center Activities Policy

St. Teresa Calcutta Child Care Center may wish to take the children on field trips or non-center activities away from the Center. These trips may include going to NICC Dairy Farm, visiting a fire station, park, the town library and the local Calmar pool.  Parents will be notified of all field trips in advance of the trip and children must return a note signed by the children’s parent. Emergency telephone numbers for each child shall be taken by staff when transporting children on field trips and non-center-sponsored activities away from our Center. Non-center activities may include participation in such activities as story hour at the Public Library, etc. Children will be walked to the appropriate location. Staff ratios will be maintained.

Technology

Our center only uses screen time occasionally for school-aged children. Occasions such as a holiday or snow day may allow children to watch a small amount of age-appropriate material on the television in our school-aged room, which is picked out and supervised by the teacher in the classroom. The use of technology is not allowed for children under the age of 3.

Transportation

Children under the age of six shall be secured during transit in a federally-approved child restraint system. Children under one year of age and weighing less than 20 pounds shall be secured during transit in a rear-facing child restraint system. Children under the age of 12 shall not be located in the front seating section of the vehicle. Vehicles shall receive regular maintenance and inspection according to manufacturer-recommended guidelines. School vehicles will be used. Drivers shall possess a valid driver’s license for the vehicle they are driving. There will be one additional staff member over the required staff ration when children are transported on field trips or other off-site activities.

Emergency Preparedness

In emergency situations such as fire, tornado, intruders in the Center, intoxicated parents, lost/abducted children, blizzards, loss of utilities, earthquakes, nuclear contamination, bomb threats, chemical spills or other disasters that could create structural damage to the facility or harm children, our daycare children and staff will respond according to previous preparation and procedure as detailed in our Crisis Management Plan. Emergency contact numbers for all children will be carried along on field trips or other off-site activities.

Center pictures are taken during the school year. A note announcing the specific date will be sent home to families.

Disgruntled Person Protocol

When an individual demonstrates signs of being upset upon entry into the center, the Director or Assistant Director will advise the individual to wait in their office until the Director or Assistant Director is able to meet with him/her. The Director or Assistant Director will state calmly, “I understand that you are upset. I would like to address your concerns in my office where it is more private.” If the individual declines entry into the Director’s office, local authorities will be contacted at 563.382.4268. Classrooms will also be notified to lock their doors to ensure the safety of children.

If the individual accepts entry into the Director’s office, the individual will wait no longer than necessary for the Director to meet with him/her. During this time period, the Director or Assistant Director will advise the Administrative Assistant or Lead Preschool Teacher of the situation and have one of the individuals present in the office when meeting with the disgruntled individual. The Director or Assistant Director will listen to the individual’s concerns without interjection and provide the individual with ten minutes to voice concerns. After the individual has shared his/her concerns, the Director or Assistant Director will repeat the concerns back to the individual to ensure understanding. The Director or Assistant Director will reinforce established policies of the center while involving the individual in problem solving as necessary. The concerns will be addressed in writing within three business days.

If the individual becomes hostile and the Director or Assistant Director feels threatened, the Director or Assistant Director will request an end to the meeting by stating, “Our discussion is over. I don’t feel we are having a meaningful conversation so you can leave at this time.” The Assistant Director will then ask the individual to share his/her concerns in writing while stating the concerns will be responded to in writing within three business days upon receipt. If the individual continues to demonstrate hostility and refuses to leave, local authorities will be contacted at 563.382.4268. Classrooms will be notified to lock their doors to ensure the safety of the children.

Government Assistance

Funding is available through the Iowa DHHS. Contact the county office for additional information. The Winneshiek County DHHS is located in Decorah and may be reached at (563) 382-2928.

Payment made by families that Iowa DHHS have reimbursed the Center for, will only be credited back to the family’s account in care hours. St. Teresa Of Calcutta Child Care Center will not issue reimbursements checks to families.

St. Teresa of Calcutta Child Care will make every effort to assist individuals needing support with reading and/or interpreting admission information. Individual support by the director or assistant director is available. Outside support will be sought if the need is determined: Keystone AEA or Northeast IA Community Action for translation services.