Parent Handbook

Enrollment and Admissions Policy

KIDSPACE Child Enrichment Program serves children 2 1/2 to 6 years old.

KIDSPACE Child Enrichment Center accepts children and families from all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, national and ethnic origin, religion, or gender.

Parents have the option to request a teacher. However, KIDSPACE has the right to make the final decision based on availability and matching requested schedules, age and gender of the children to create a positive learning environment. We will maintain a waiting list and enroll new children and families on the basis of the date we receive their completed waiting list application and their match to the space available in the program. We give priority to returning families (families whose older children are or were in our program).

Hours And Calendar

Hours of Operation

Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

We ask that you make every effort to pick your child up on time. We understand that there are emergencies that can delay you. Please call immediately if you will be delayed, so our staff can make arrangements and so we can reassure your child that you are on your way. Excessive tardiness to pick up your child will result in extra fees assessed to your account.

Licensing and Early Achievers

KIDSPACE CHILD ENRICHMENT CENTER is licensed by Washington State’s Department of Children, Youth and Family (DCYF) as a full-day childcare center for children aged 30 months through age 12 (though we currently run programs for preschool children 30 months – 6 years old). All aspects of the program, including the physical facilities curriculum, health and safety, and administration are periodically inspected by DYCF.

In 2015, KIDSPACE went through the Early Achievers rating process, which is Washington’s Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). KIDSPACE met all requirements to attain a Level 4 rating and the following areas of specialization: Child Outcomes, Interactions and Environments, Family Engagements and Partnerships.

Please see DEL Early Achiever’s website for further information.

Daily Schedule

7:00 a.m. Center opens

Self-directed activities in the teachers’ classroom of choice.

Open play in the gym also available.

Self-service cereal available, and children can eat self-packed breakfasts.

9:00 ˆ 3:00 Preschool Classes in session

Each class will have their own schedule which will include the following:

• Morning Meetings (circle time)
• Music, literacy activities, math and counting games, and more
• Small group and individual activities include both child- and teacher-led activities:
  1. Art and sensory explorations and play
  2. Dramatic play, literacy centers, block building, puzzles, games, manipulatives, math and science explorations
  3. Snack time and cooking activities

Outdoor play: Riding trikes, digging, pretend play drawing (chalk, clipboards), easel painting, group games

Gross motor activities in the gym: Skill instruction and practice, gymnastics, ball games, storytimes

11:45 ˆ 12:30 Lunch

Children bring packed lunch from home ˆ milk, water and fruit served

12:30 ˆ 2:30 Nap and Quiet Time (Chickadee classroom available for long nappers; Starlings classroom available for short nappers or those who only rest.)

2:30 ˆ 5:30 Napping Children gently wake-up and then begin afternoon activities:

• Gross motor activities in the gym (see morning schedule)
• Outdoor Play (see morning schedule)
• Snacks and cooking
• Small Group and individual activities (see morning schedule)

3:00 Dismissal (for preschool only students)

3:00 Snack and prepare to go outside

3:15 – 5:30 Outside Play

5:30 ˆ 6:00 Self-directed activities indoors (gym or classroom) or outdoors

Annual Calendar

Below is our annual holiday calendar. Please reference the yearly school calendar, distributed in August/September or upon enrollment. for specific yearly dates. We will NOT be open on the following days. (Monthly tuition has already factored in the holidays.)

• Three Teacher In-Service days before the start of school
• Labor Day
• Veteran’s Day
• Conference Days (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday before Thanksgiving)
• Thanksgiving Holiday (Thursday and Friday)
• Christmas Break determined each year
• New Year’s Eve
• New Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King Day (Teacher In-service Day)
• President’s Day
• Spring Break (determined each year)
• Easter Monday
• Memorial Day
• Two Days of Teacher In-service Training at the end of June
• Fourth of July

Tuition Information

Tuition and Fee Schedule

Due at the time of enrollment are the following fees:

• One time Registration fee $75 ($125 per family)
  • Semi-annual Materials fees are due in September and February or at time of enrollment
  • Semi-annual material fees may be pro-rated for mid-cycle enrollments.
• Annual Materials fee $60 ($100 per family)
• Hourly rate for additional time $10 per hour
• We offer a Sibling Discount of 5% off the lowest tuition.

Please refer to the tuition schedule, or inquire at the front desk. Prices subject to change without notice.

Tuition Prepayment Discount

Tuition may be paid in advance. Payments made three months or more in advance will receive a 5% discount. Advance payments will not be subject to tuition increases until the next payment is due. Students wishing to withdraw will be subject to the policies stated below.

Tuition Due Dates

Tuition is due the first week of the month. Invoices will be put in family files the first school day of every month.

Late Fees

Payments received after the 10th of the month will accrue a $50 late fee UNLESS payment plans are submitted in writing and approved by the management PRIOR to the tenth of the invoiced month. When accounts are more than 15 days past due without approved written payment plans, children may not attend school until the balance is paid in full. Parents wishing to delay payment or change the payment due date from the first of the month need prior approval by KIDSPACE management.

Attendance and Participation

Attendance

Regular attendance is important for children to receive the maximum benefit from the program. In order for teachers to effectively plan for the day and to be aware of scheduling needs for each individual child, we ask that families notify KIDSPACE when the child will be absent, arriving late, or leaving early.

Vacations and Sick Days

No refunds or credits will be given for absences, vacations or sickness.

Withdrawal from the Program

We request two weeks advance written notice of intention to withdraw from the program be given. The parent will be required to pay tuition, in full, for two weeks before the child’s schedule is terminated. A child’s enrollment may be terminated at any time by a joint decision of the Program Director and Supervising Teacher for the child’s classroom.

Reasons for termination/withdrawal include:

• The program does not meet the needs of the child and/or the child’s family (because of schedule, tuition, or philosophical differences).
• Tuition payments have not been submitted and no arrangements for payment by the family have been made.
• The family fails to cooperate with the staff in the operation and management of the program (e.g. consistently fails to pick up child on time, brings visitors without prior arrangement, sends an ill child to school, etc.).

Parental Participation and Support

Parents are considered by the program staff to be the most important people in children’s lives; thus, parents are invited to participate in the program in a variety of ways.

• Observing the children and visiting are good ways to see how children interact and learn.
• Parents are welcome in the classrooms at any time.
• Parents are encouraged to participate in field trips, family and special events held throughout the school year. Many events are listed on the school year calendar and in addition, families are notified well in advance of the activities.
• Conferences held twice yearly, in the fall and in June provide a way for parents to get to know the staff on a more individual basis and together create learning goals for their child.
• Evening meetings are held with parents to discuss child-related issues or may include family fun nights (see “Parent Involvement” below).
• Parents are supported in establishing play dates for children.
• Parents are encouraged to volunteer in the classroom, participate in a class project or special event, visit for lunch, participate in birthday celebrations or share a hobby or expertise with the class; ALL THAT IS NEEDED IS TO TALK WITH YOUR CHILD’S TEACHER!
• Parents are invited to share in the celebration of their child’s birthday at school. We gladly will work with parent’s schedules. Talk to your child’s teacher.
• PLEASE SHARE: Parents, please share your work or interests with us in our classrooms. Do you have pictures, clothes or music from a country other than the United States that you would be willing to share with us? Do you have a hobby or interest you’d like to share? Examples: musical instruments, mechanics, knitting, a favorite book or special skill, such as sign language. We like to involve parents. Please tell us what you would like to share!

Keep Open Communication: Please talk to us about your child or the program. It is helpful if you notify us about special things your family is doing together or about things that may have happened at home which might influence your child’s behavior. We need to know things like, “my child got up at 4:00 a.m. today” or any information that will help us provide the appropriate care for your child.

Contacting Staff: Parents are given teacher’s cell phone number so information can be exchanged directly and as often as needed via text or voice communication. Questions related to billing, enrollment, etc. can be sent to kidspace1@comcast.net or parents can call KIDSPACE at 360.944.9300.

Written Communication: Written communications (classroom/center newsletters, incident reports, invoices, etc.) are put in the family folder at the check-in/out station.

Transitions: KIDSPACE works to make works to keep transitions meaningful and as nondisruptive as possible for all children.

Transition into KIDSPACE: There are many helps in place so each child transitions smoothly into his/her class at KIDSPACE. We acknowledge parents are an important piece of the transition too.

Tours and Visits

In addition to touring before registration, parents are welcome to bring their child in to visit their future classroom before starting school. This gives the parent and the child an opportunity to begin to familiarize themselves with the people, environment, culture and routines.

Open House

The Wednesday after Labor Day KIDSPACE hosts an open house for all new and returning families from 9:30 – 11:30. This gives children an opportunity to meet new friends and teaching staff, spend time interacting with materials and get to know and become comfortable in the environment.

Separation Anxiety

Rest assured we are pros at helping children transition into classroom routines, even when they are very distraught at seeing a parent walk out of the classroom. We will spend a LOT of time with your child in order to build a trusting relationship. It is important your child knows there is someone that will understand, love and care for them at school.

Phone calls and Texts

Before you leave, you will receive your child’s teacher’s phone number. You are welcome to text to check in on your child. However, we too will be sending you picture and text updates to let you know how your child is doing as we can. Our Open-Door Policy means you are welcome at ANY time. If you and your child need extra time to separate you are welcome to stay. If you do choose to stay awhile, we ask that you are very clear with your child when you are planning to leave so you don’t just disappear. (Example: “I will stay and watch you put together one puzzle and then I will say good-bye, but I will be back to pick you up after your afternoon snack time.”) And then leave when you say you are and return when you say you will.

Registration Paperwork

Filling out the registration form and classroom “get to know you” forms help the teachers and staff best understand your child’s strengths, challenges, personality, physical needs, culture, etc.

Classroom Culture

Teachers work closely with the student to make sure they begin to know the daily routine and often they ask another student to help acquaint them to a center or how to wash their hands for snack, etc. Also, all classrooms have a visual schedule which helps children see first hand what happens next in the routine.

Transition Within KIDSPACE

Because we embrace traditional school beginnings and endings at KIDSPACE, September transitions are celebrated and looked forward to.

September Transitions

There are no mid-year transitions at KIDSPACE. We follow the traditional school year, so your child, along with most of their friends all transition to their new class at the beginning of the school year in September. The first day of class in the new classroom is the Thursday after Labor Day. There is an open house the day before (Wednesday) from 9:30 – 11:30 in which all new and returning students are welcome to attend with their parents. Spring Visitation happens during the previous school year for incoming Chickadee, Bluebird or Robin students. They are invited to visit the classroom and experience a half hour with the teachers in their soon-to-be (in September) classroom.

TS Gold Assessments

We use and believe in the TS Gold Assessment program. It follows each child from the time they begin at KIDSPACE until they leave. The information about each child is accurate and up to date. The teachers can see at a glance where children fall developmentally, and individualized instruction and experiences can begin immediately to help ensure a comfortable beginning for each child.

Mid-Year Transition out of KIDSPACE

When children leave KIDSPACE mid-year, the transition can be difficult not just for the child who is leaving, but the rest of the classmates, too. We always consult with parents to get their approval for transitional activities and celebrations.

Class Discussions

We talk about change and what it means and how this change will impact the child leaving and the rest of the class.

Drawings and Dictation

We encourage the children (child leaving and those staying) to draw pictures and tell their words to express how they are feeling.

Celebration

We make the child’s last day a happy one and generally celebrate with a special snack.

Portfolio/Notebook

The child is given their portfolio/notebook to take with them when they leave. There is also a note from the teachers and pictures (with dictation) for any students who want to draw for the child who’s leaving.

TS Gold Assessment

An updated TS Gold report is given to the family. They can share it if appropriate with a new teacher.

Transition to KINDERGARTEN

This is a time of many mixed feelings for children. There is great anticipation about going to kindergarten and with it comes a jumble of emotions. Your child’s teacher will be helping your child sort through the emotions and preparing your child to be “kindergarten ready” in every way, including emotionally.

Classroom Discussions

During the last third of the year, the pre-k classes speak a lot about kindergarten. Children also have many opportunities to discuss kindergarten and what it will be like and how they are feeling.

Child-Led Conferences and Portfolio/Notebooks

During the end of the year conference, we teachers will be reviewing the notebook and pointing out to the children how much they learned and grew through the year and how they are NOW ready for kindergarten.

WAKIDS Kindergarten Transition Form

Each child will receive the WAKIDS Kindergarten Transition, which is to be given to the kindergarten teacher, at the time of their conference.

TS Gold Spring Assessment

Each child will be given the TS Gold Spring Assessment (to be given to their new kindergarten teacher) at the time of their conference.

Year End Celebration

This is a parent/family event where we celebrate the accomplishments together of each child and the joy we shared as a community through the school year. Strong endings are important in order for there to be strong beginnings!

Kamp KIDSPACE

Consistency

Children stay with peers from the school year and at least one classroom teacher stays with the children during the summer program.

Change

Some children will leave for the summer at the end of the school year and the teachers will discuss the changes with the classes before the summer program begins.

New Program

The schedule/routine will be consistent with the school year, but the KAMP KIDSPACE will be treated as a special program for the summer.

Parent Notification

Parents will be notified in writing regarding the staffing of KAMP KIDSPACE before the program begins. When a staff member transitions out of KIDSPACE: As is true with all transitions, we work to keep parents and children apprised of all staff changes at KIDSPACE. We treat it much like we would a child who is leaving KIDSPACE.

Transition Time

Whenever possible we try to overlap training time by a week or two so children have time to meet and become comfortable with the new teacher/staff member before saying good-bye to the teacher/staff member who is leaving.

Class Discussions

We talk about change and what it means and how this change will impact the staff member leaving and the class.

Drawings and Dictation

We encourage the children to draw pictures and tell their words to express how they are feeling about the teacher/staff member who is leaving.

Celebration

We make the teacher/staff member’s last day a happy one and generally celebrate with a special snack.

Parent Notification

Parents are notified in writing as soon as possible so they can begin having conversations with their child about the change. When a new staff member transitions into KIDSPACE: As is true with all transitions, we work to keep parents and children apprised of all staff changes at KIDSPACE.

Parents are notified in writing about the new staff member as soon as possible so they can begin having conversations with their child about the new teacher/staff member.

Introductions

A formal introduction between the children and the new teacher/staff member is planned in each class. Formal introductions are an important social skill, and certainly one not to be overlooked. We take advantage of this opportunity to use it with children.

Transition Time

Whenever possible we try to overlap training time by a week or two so children have time to meet and become comfortable with the new teacher/staff member before saying good-bye to the teacher/staff member who is leaving.

Parent Involvement

The involvement of parents at KIDSPACE is critical to the success and quality of our program. The development of positive and supportive relationships with parents and communications concerning the individual child’s development, plus program policies and information is the responsibility of each staff member.

Family Events

• Preschool Open House: Usually the Wednesday prior to the first day of school. It gives parents and children an opportunity to get acquainted with new families, the staff and program goals.
• Preschool Curriculum Night: Parents meet to learn about philosophy, learning goals, curriculum, and daily routines. This evening meeting takes place in early October so parents and teachers also have opportunities to ask questions and informally discuss students, their transitions to school, progress and goals.
• Family Nights: Children have the opportunity to show their family their classroom and participate in activities together. This is another opportunity for families to get acquainted and parents to speak informally to the teachers regarding their child.
• Conferences and Concerns: Parent conferences are scheduled twice a year and also are scheduled at any time by parental or teacher request. Teachers share information related to the child’s development and programming needs as well as the results of child assessments and/or address any issues regarding the program, teacher or children.
• Special Events such as STEM night, Pajama Day or Performance Days: These events are not usually prescheduled on the calendar but correlate with a classroom study or special activity. They happen either in the evening or during the day (at the beginning or end of the school day to make parent attendance easier). These events give the children a chance to participate in a special activity together with their families and friends. It also gives parents an opportunity to see first hand what’s happening in the classroom and speak with teachers and/or other parents.
• Gymnastic Show: In late May or early June the students in the Bluebirds and Robins class show off all their gymnastic skills for their families at Naydenov Gymnastic Center. Each child is recognized and given a medal of accomplishment.
• End of the year celebrations: Each class finds a special way to celebrate their year and recognize each child together with their families. The younger classes like to picnic together. The Robins class has an evening celebration.

Child Assessment and Documentation

Overview

The child Assessment Process at KIDSPACE aims to provide a general understanding of a child’s individual growth and development and this process considers:

• Authentic performance assessment: it measures not what children can do when asked to perform, but what they do in natural settings.
• Items on the checklist to be criterion-referenced: children’s ability and knowledge are compared to specific criteria rather than to other children’s ability and knowledge. However, the domains are norm-referenced in that expectable behaviors for a child of a particular age.
• Assessment data is curriculum embedded: children are observed in the context of daily classroom activities rather than being asked to perform specific tasks.
• All staff are continually involved in the observational assessment of children throughout their time at KIDSPACE.

Assessment and Observational data

#1 – helps teacher plan curricula (small and large group and individual experiences) that is based on the developmental level and needs of the children in the classroom.

#2 – formal assessment, as well as observational information, is shared with parents to offer an additional perspective on their child’s development, needs, and unique interests.

#3 – to provide information on program effectiveness and make program improvements.

KIDSPACE Preschool Development Assessment

Each team of classroom teachers is responsible for collecting data on their children as well as compiling additional assessment materials. At the end of the year the children’s “portfolio notebook” will include the following:

• Final TS Gold assessment for the year
• A notebook of artifacts illustrating experiences and development collected through the year
• WAKIDS Kindergarten Transition form (only for children going onto kindergarten)

NOTE: The last conference of the year for KINDERGARTEN bound children is a child led conference with parents. They review/share their portfolio notebook with their parents. Children get to take their treasured notebook portfolio with them as a forever keepsake.

Confidentiality

All assessment information (screening, checklist, progress reports, etc.) are kept in the child’s confidential file folder which is in a secure, locking file box at the front desk. All the information in these files are to be viewed by KIDSPACE staff only. In all cases, signed parental permission must be obtained before any assessment information is released to any other individual or agency/organization.

NOTE: Parents may have access to any/all materials, documentation, and communications in their child’s file and may request copies at any time.

Developmental Screenings

Within 30 days of enrollment, all children receive a developmental screening. The screening will be used to compare the child’s development relative to normative scores of a similar population of children. The Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) is used at KIDSPACE as the screening tool. The ASQ is to be completed by each child’s parent and this information will be used by the staff to develop goals for the child/children. If a child is discrepant in any area, within 90 days of the ASQ screening, the teaching staff will meet with the parent(s) to examine the area of concern and assist the parent(s) in making a referral if necessary.

Referrals

KIDSPACE has a list of contact information for the local public school systems which is the first point of reference made by the program.

When a child’s needs can’t be met by KIDSPACE

Because developmental and social-emotional delays can be subtle and can occur in children who appear to be developing typically, a large number of children who would benefit from early intervention are not identified until after they start preschool. Early intervention is vitally important and we work very closely with the parents and professionals to make sure children do not fall through the cracks. We follow the following steps:

#1 – Parent Conference: Teachers will meet with parents immediately if they have any concerns about developmental or behavioral delays. At this time they will recommend screening either through the local school district, your pediatrician or both.

#2 – Conference with Professionals: Often child development specialists ask teachers to fill out assessment questionnaires, come visit the child at school, or speak with the child’s teachers about their observations. We do all we can to support the professionals working with the child. You will be asked by the medical professional to sign a release waiver so the teacher can give him/her information concerning your child. We cannot share information until we receive the signed waiver.

#3 – Plan of Action Conference: After the screening and the recommendations have been given to the parents we meet with them to set a plan of action. Many times the child stays at KIDSPACE and we are able to work alongside you, the parent, and the child development specialists to help the child gain the skills he/she needs. Sometimes, the child’s needs are greater than what KIDSPACE can provide and the family is recommended by the child development specialists to enroll in a school which is able to provide services on a daily basis. In that case, we work with the parent to provide a smooth transition out of KIDSPACE and into the new school setting. (See mid-year transitions.)

Note: We NEVER expel a child from KIDSPACE. Expulsion means abruptly terminating the enrollment of a child due to challenging behavior or developmental needs. When a child has developmental or behavioral delays we ALWAYS work with the parent and take the steps outlined above. If we, or other professionals, determine we cannot provide the needed care, learning environment or services at KIDSPACE which the child needs, we will do ALL we can to help the child transition smoothly into the new school/care setting. (See mid-year transitions.)

The KIDSPACE Program

KIDSPACE relies on a philosophy that is grounded in the principles of “developmentally appropriate practice” as defined by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (Bredekamp & Copple, 1997). Developmentally appropriate practices are those that are chosen on the basis of three types of information:

1. What is known about child development and learning.
2. What is known about the individual children who are being served.
3. What is known about the social and cultural contexts in which children function.

Child Development and Learning

Principles of child development provide a foundation for understanding how children develop and learn best:

• Children must feel safe and valued before they can learn. First and foremost, children’s physical, psychological and safety needs are met.
• Children’s learning and development occur in integrated ways. All activities address several aspects of development at once. Because all areas of development are equally important, cognitive, social-emotional, and physical developments are all considered in the curriculum.
• Children’s development occurs in an orderly sequence. By being aware of the typical sequence of development, environments and activities are planned that appropriately engage but do not overwhelm the children.
• Children are active learners who learn best through hands-on manipulation of the environment, building their own understanding of the world, as well as through knowledge transmitted by adults. Children will have daily access to real-life materials and experiences.
• Children’s play is an important vehicle for their social, emotional and cognitive development, as well as, a reflection of their physical development. Thus, significant time will be provided for children to play both indoors and outdoors.

Individual Differences

While typical sequences of development exist, the rate at which children proceed through this sequence is unique. By recognizing the unique development of each child, KIDSPACE CEC can provide an optimally appropriate environment for all children in the program. Each child is considered to have unique needs and learning styles. As much as possible, the curriculum will be designed to be adaptable to the needs of all the children in the classroom, ensuring success for individuals of differing developmental levels and different “ways of knowing.”

Cultural and Social Contexts of Children

Development and learning are shaped by the numerous social and cultural contexts in which children live. The child’s social and cultural life is an important beginning point for planning curriculum.

Guidance Techniques for Children

The following procedures ensure the safety and welfare of all children and help the teachers be consistent in setting limits and using management techniques that convey the values of respect, trust, honesty, and caring for others.

• Establish a climate of trust: Young children need the security of knowing that adults will set and maintain limits fairly and consistently. Children need to have a trusting climate. A trusting climate is one that is open, honest and caring — where feelings and relationships are important — where adults give clear messages, mean what they say, and keep the promises they make. Trust is demonstrated by both verbal and nonverbal communication.
• Build positive relationships. The following ingredients are essential for effective adult-child relationships:
  1. Demonstrate mutual respect
  2. Take time for fun
  3. Provide encouragement
  4. Communicate love
• Communicate effectively. Speak slowly and with patience. Always speak to children with respect. Use “I” messages. Always make sure that you have the attention of the child or children to whom you are speaking. Solicit verbal feedback and look for nonverbal feedback. Listen to what the children say to you.
• Use descriptive reinforcement: encourage children specifically while engaged in an activity. Focus on the improvement of process rather than an evaluation of a finished product (i.e. “Carlos, you are making big lines with your paintbrush!” rather than “What a beautiful painting!”) Using descriptive reinforcement increases children’s positive self-concept, self-reliance, and autonomy.
• Appropriate behavior management (discipline): providing children with skills necessary to develop their own measure of self-control is the goal of effective early childhood classroom management. Self-control is best achieved through:
  1. Setting clear limits: with the cooperation and knowledge of the children, set explicit and understandable limits and rules of personal and group conduct.
  2. Preventing inappropriate behavior: positive alternatives to punitive discipline include the following strategies for preventing behavior problems in the classroom: anticipate trouble, give gentle reminders, ignore minor annoyances, praise effort and accomplishment, inject humor, and offer choices.
  3. Establishing logical consequences: logical consequences are based on the recognition of mutual equality, mutual respect, and order in the classroom and can help children develop self-discipline. Logical consequences are structured and arranged by the adult. A logical consequence is one that has a direct connection to the child’s actions.
  4. Utilizing conflict resolution: When conflict occurs, children and adults need to know how to resolve it peacefully and without displaying negative behaviors. Conflict resolution is an opportunity for children involved to evaluate what caused the disagreement and to figure out an alternative for the next time the same or a similar situation arises; discussing the situation is a means of helping children learn to verbalize their feelings and solve their own problems with the support of one another and an adult.
  5. Steps in the Problem Solving Process:
     1. Gather data about events and feelings and decide what options you will use.
     2. State the problem clearly; it is easier for children to solve a problem if you have a clear understanding of the problem.
     3. Generate lots of ideas. Go for quantity of different ideas, not quality in this step.
     4. Evaluate the ideas. Look at the consequences and alternatives.
     5. Ask for a decision and help children plan. List the alternatives, ask the children for a decision, help them plan how to implement the idea, and decide on a time to evaluate your plan.
• LOVE and LOGIC – KIDSPACE subscribes to and utilizes the philosophies and practices of LOVE and LOGIC. The four principles of LOVE and LOGIC are based upon the foundation that children learn to make positive choices through natural consequences. The four main principles of Love and Logic are:
  1. Build Self-Concept
  2. Sharing Control
  3. Empathy before Consequences
  4. Share the Thinking (problem-solving).

For more information on LOVE and LOGIC, click here.

Classroom Management

The goals of the classroom management program used at KIDSPACE are to teach children to evaluate and make choices, to take responsibility for their own actions, to recognize and express their feelings appropriately, to use their time and energy constructively, and to be considerate and fair in solving problems with others. The classroom management program is based on the recognition that a stimulating, balanced, age-appropriate learning environment, an atmosphere of mutual respect and caring, and positive teacher attitudes will encourage cooperation and prevent most behavior problems.

Families provide the most important support for children, and each family knows its children better than anyone else. Based on this belief, KIDSPACE staff will work as a team with each child’s family to establish clear expectations for children’s behavior and appropriate responses to inappropriate behaviors. Children thrive when they experience consistency and continuity between home and school. However, it is the primary responsibility of center staff to ensure that no child is harmed. If families and KIDSPACE staff disagree about what this means, staff must act professionally to assure that they do not violate this guideline. This means that if concerns about abuse or neglect arise, staff are required to report and act upon those concerns. It also means that staff cannot agree to perform or permit an action within the program which violates professional guidelines about what is in the best interest of each child.

If a child demonstrates behaviors that cause concerns about her or his well being or that of others (for example dangerous, severely disruptive, or destructive behaviors), then staff and families will work together to create an intervention plan. Staff may request a consultation from experts to address challenging concerns. Families will always be informed and fully involved in any situation of this type.

If your child has engaged in behaviors that significantly disrupt or harm others, you will receive a written incident report that you will need to sign and return. If you receive several of these reports, we will schedule a conference to discuss our shared responsibilities in assisting your child to develop constructive behavior responses. Together, we will create a plan for improvement.

KIDSPACE Child Enrichment Center does NOT use corporal punishment.

While KIDSPACE does not have an expulsion policy, we do know that not every program supports the needs of every child. If KIDSPACE does not or cannot offer programs to meet the needs of a child we will work with the parent to help find a program that does and providing contact information to community resources and agencies.

Tips to Parents From Your Child

Be Positive! Try not to tell me that I’ll have a great time at school, and then tell Grandma that you feel guilty about enrolling me. If you feel great about leaving … I’ll feel great about staying!

Don’t mind me if the first day I love it, and the second day (or second week) I hate it.

It’s a new place, new children, new adults and a new schedule.

When you drop me off in the morning, give me a kiss and a hug and we can say goodbye. I know that you have to go to work, and if you stay too long I might begin to feel uncertain because you are feeling uncertain. If I’m crying the teachers will take care of me. They want what’s best for me, too.

Please take time to look at my artwork that I created. I work long and hard at it all day while you are at work. If you don’t show interest, I might not be enthusiastic about doing it anymore. Your opinion means a lot to me.

Spend time with me when we get home at night. I know that you’re tired, but I’m probably full of energy if I took a good nap. I want to spend time with you.

Give me the choice to do things by myself. I’m a little slower than you are, but I can do things all by myself. Making decisions can make me feel very important.

Sometimes I don’t want to go to school. Sometimes you don’t want to go to work! But, after we both get there, we’re one.

Please don’t feel guilty about leaving me! I know that you love me. I also know that by the time I start kindergarten, I will be well adjusted socially and mentally. I will be asking questions way ahead of other children. Why? Because you had the insight to allow me to be in a loving atmosphere with other children at a young age. I learned new things, met new friends, and realized you would always be there for me!

Signed,

Your Child

Religion

We are committed to serving our Lord through serving families. While we do not teach religious doctrine, we do embrace Christian values and share God’s love. We will celebrate holidays, including Christmas and Easter. If your family doesn’t celebrate these holidays, please notify your teacher and we will work with you and your child to provide a good alternate activities.

Computers in the Classroom

There are so many activities for children to do at KIDSPACE. We do not offer computer access for children.

Teaching Respect and Consideration

Research and experience teach us that young children are very vulnerable to the examples they see around them — specifically, how other people in their lives act, what behavior they see on T.V. and other media screens, and the materials they are surrounded with. In order for each child in our program to feel safe, we must ensure that children learn to treat all others with respect and consideration. This is a learning process for most, if not all, young children. We ask that you assist us in this important task by considering very carefully the role models your child or children are exposed to, the toys you encourage or allow them to play with, and their exposure to media. We also ask that you help us to communicate to children that violence and aggression are never acceptable ways to respond to the challenges they experience.

• Second Step Violence Prevention Curriculum: KIDSPACE CEC uses the Second Step Curriculum to teach all children (3 yrs – 10 yrs.) social-emotional skills including: empathy training, anger management, and problem-solving skills.

Check In and Out Policy

Please remember to sign your child in and out each day at the computer check-in station. State law and KIDSPACE policy requires that parent/guardian sign your child in and out each day with a fingerprint scan. Check-in stations are located across from the front desk and in the Starlings classroom at the Chickadee door.

Sign In

Children must be checked in by the adult who delivers them inside the classroom. This adult must also escort the child into the classroom and make sure that the teacher has acknowledged the child’s presence before exiting the room. In addition, we ask that once in the classroom, you and your child go directly to a sink and assist him/her to wash hands or use the sanitizer provided at the front desk. This reduces the chance of germ exchange.

Sign Out

When picking up your child, please check him/her out, and inform the teacher. Only adults who are listed as the emergency contact and/or listed on the enrollment form as an authorized pick-up person are authorized to pick up your child. Please keep the pick-up authorization form updated, removing adults who are no longer authorized to pick up, and adding those new adults you wish to be able to pick up your child.

CHILDREN WILL NOT BE RELEASED TO AN ADULT WHO HAS NOT BEEN PLACED ON THE PICK-UP AUTHORIZATION FORM. This is for the protection of your child and the staff. Staff members are required to ask the name of the authorized person who comes to pick up a child and may ask that person for identification. Under no circumstances should staff ever release a child to a non-custodial parent or guardian unless the custodial parent or guardian has given written permission or has talked verbally to the lead teachers, directors, or assistant. Non-custodial parents/guardians are welcome at the program only with the custodial parent’s/guardian’s permission.

Staff is responsible for releasing children to appropriate persons. If a custodial parent or guardian has asked someone different to pick up a child, that person must be listed as the emergency contact and/or as an authorized pick-up person on the enrollment form. If a person picking up a child appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, staff cannot refuse to release the child to that person. Staff is required to notify police concerning the driver’s condition, automobile make, color, and license number.

PLEASE!

Don’t forget to check your child’s cubby and family file for any items that need to go home. Staff will place items that need to go home in the cubby. Important announcements, newsletters, reports, invoices and reminders will be placed in the family files.

PLEASE use discretion with the distribution of birthday party invitations. No invitations should be placed in children’s cubbies. Invitations should be put in family files. Families are also asked not to exchange gifts or party favors at school. It is very common for hurt feelings to occur when children discover they have not received something that other children have received.

LICENSING

KIDSPACE is licensed by the Washington Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) as a child care center for children 30 months through six years old. All aspects of the program, including the physical facilities, curriculum, health and safety, and administration are periodically inspected by DCYF.

Safety and Health

Children benefit most from group experiences when they are healthy and they are safe from unnecessary hazards. KIDSPACE is designed to provide children with a comfortable, safe environment where they are free to explore and learn. The state fire marshal and the local fire district inspects the center, and fire and emergency drills are held monthly.

In case of a serious injury, children will be given first aid and families will be notified immediately. The teachers will attend to minor bumps and bruises, and families will be informed of any such accident.

Parents or guardians are also required to submit information on the enrollment form giving emergency consent so their child may receive immediate treatment in case of an emergency.

Entry Security Policy

In order to increase security at KIDSPACE, we have implemented a system that will require all entrants to punch a numeric code to gain access to the program. Parents and caregivers will be given a numeric code, which may change as need arises. This is to assist us in keeping your children safe while in our care. When you receive this code, please protect it so that our system remains as secure as possible.

Transportation

State Law requires that all children up to 80 pounds be transported in a state-regulated car seat. KIDSPACE requires that all children be placed in a car seat while being transported to and from school.

Outdoor Play

Outdoor play is provided on most days, even when the weather is cold. Children who are well enough to attend the center are expected to play outside. When enough staff is available, parent’s requests for a choice of outside or inside play are honored.

Immunization

The state of Washington requires that children in groups be immunized and all children must be fully immunized prior to attending KIDSPACE. The immunization form must be completely filled out and turned in with the enrollment packet. Immunizations are available through the Southwest Washington Health Department. We will only accept MEDICAL EXEMPTIONS for immunization (delayed doses, etc.). Medical Exemptions must be accompanied by a letter from a medical doctor.

Illness

In order to keep our children healthy, ill children with fever, vomiting, diarrhea or a communicable disease will not be permitted to remain at the center while they are sick or for 24 hours after symptoms have occurred. Please make alternate arrangements for your child when he/she is ill. The child’s teacher needs to be informed of any diagnosed communicable diseases the child develops so other parents whose children may be exposed can be notified. Children should be kept home if they have any of these symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Rash, lice or nits. Body rash, especially with a fever or itching.
• Diarrhea: three or more watery stools in 24 hours.
• Eye infection.Thick mucus or pus draining from the eye.
• Sore throat, with fever or swollen glands.
• Open or oozing sores, unless properly covered with cloths or with bandages.
• Fever. Temperatures of 100 degrees (F) or more and sore throat, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, earache, or fatigue that prevents participation in regular activities.

Children must be free of the above symptoms for 24 hours before returning to school. If medication is given, they must be on the medication for 24 hours before returning to the center. For suspected communicable skin infection such as impetigo, pinkeye, and scabies, the child may return 24 hours after beginning the antibiotic treatment.

KIDSPACE does not have the staffing or physical facility to care for ill children who are not comfortable enough to participate in the planned activities. If a child becomes ill at school, we will ask the child to rest on their nap mat in an isolated corner of the center. Please come and get your child as soon as we contact you.

IMPORTANT: Please keep your child’s file up-to-date with phone numbers, all the places where you can be found, your child’s doctor, and person to call in case of emergency.

Refunds or credits are not granted if a child does not attend due to illness.

Medication

Parent/Guardian Consent: Staff administers medication only with prior written permission (Medication Authorization Form) from parent or guardian. Medication must be in the original container and accompanied by a syringe or medication spoon. (This will allow the medication and dosage to be checked before it is administered.) Medication must be labeled with child’s first and last names, expiration date, and legible instructions for administration. Medication and measuring device must be stored in a clear plastic bag to prevent contamination by and of other things stored beside it.

A parent/legal guardian will be the sole consent to medication being given, without the consent of a health care provider, if and only if, the medication meets all of the following criteria:

THE MEDICATION IS OVER-THE-COUNTER AND IS ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:

• Antihistamine
• Non-aspirin fever reducer/pain reliever
• Non-narcotic cough suppressant
• Decongestant
• Ointments or lotions intended specifically to relieve itching or dry skin
• Diaper ointments intended for use with “diaper rash”
• Sunscreen for children over 6 months of age

THE FOLLOWING MUST ALSO APPLY:

• The medication is in the original container
• The original container must be labeled with the child’s name
• The medication is NOT expired
• The medication duration, dosage and amount to be given does not exceed label-specific recommendations for how often or how long to be given.

For sunscreen and hand sanitizer, the written consent may cover an extended time. For all other medications, the written consent may only cover the course of the illness.

Health Care Provider Consent

A licensed Health Care Provider’s consent, along with parent/legal guardian consent, will be required for prescription medications and all OVER THE COUNTER MEDICATIONS that do not meet the above criteria (including vitamins, supplements, and fluoride).

A licensed Health Care Provider’s written consent must be obtained to add medication to food or liquid. A licensed Health Care Provider’s consent may be given in three different ways:

1. The provider’s name is on the original pharmacist’s label (along with the child’s name, name of the medication, dosage, frequency (can NOT be given “as needed”), duration and expiration date).
2. The provider signs a note or prescriptions that includes the information required on the pharmacist’s label.
3. The provider signs a completed Medication Authorization Form.

Whenever your child requires a medication:

• Ask your physician to prescribe something that can be given during the hours you are normally with your child, first thing in the morning and at bedtime.
• If the medication MUST be given at the center, once per day is easier for the supervisors than twice per day.
• Put your child on a medication schedule that does not require a dose between 1:00 and 3:00 p.m., as this is nap time for some children.

Medications for chronic conditions, such as asthma or allergies:

• For chronic conditions (such as asthma), the parent/legal guardian’s written consent must be renewed
• An individual care plan must be provided that lists symptoms or conditions under which the medication will be given.

Emergency supply of medication for chronic illness:

• For medications taken at home, we ask for a three-day supply (along with the Medication Authorization Form) to be kept with our disaster kit (in your child’s emergency ziplock bag) in case of an earthquake or other disaster.

Allergies or special physical restrictions: please inform us in writing!

Injuries

Any injuries received during the child’s day at KIDSPACE are recorded on incident report forms. A copy is made for the parent and for center records. If injury requires treatment beyond what can be provided at the center, you will be contacted. If you cannot be reached, we will call in the following order:

• The person you have listed to be notified in case of emergency
• Your child’s physician
• Whatever steps necessary to obtain emergency medical care and emergency surgery as warranted (as stated on Emergency Consent Form signed by parents)

Emergency Procedures

1. Life threatening emergencies: one staff member will stay with the injured/ill child. An ambulance will be called for any major medical emergency that could be life-threatening or extremely dangerous. Severely injured children will not be moved before the ambulance crew arrives. For a child who is choking, staff trained in using the Heimlich maneuver shall follow the procedure. Parents will be contacted as soon as possible.
2. Minor emergencies: at least one staff trained in basic first aid and infant/child CPR is always on duty. Staff trained in first aid will take appropriate steps in minor injuries. Parents will be contacted as soon as possible if the accident might possibly require medical care. When accidents occur that are unlikely to require further medical attention (such as minor cuts, scrapes, bruises), parents are not called. Accidents are recorded on the accident list and parents are given incident report forms.

Child Abuse Reporting Requirements

The Washington State Administrative Code (WAC 388-150-480) regarding reporting of death, injury, illness, epidemic, or child abuse states:

The licensee (KIDSPACE Child Enrichment Center) or staff reports immediately:

1. A death, serious injury requiring medical treatment, or illness requiring hospitalization of a child in care, by telephone and in writing, to the parent, licensor, and child’s social worker, if any;
2. Any instance when the licensee or staff has reason to suspect the occurrence of physical, sexual, or emotional child abuse, child neglect, or child exploitation as required under chapter 26.44 RCW, by telephone, to child protective services or local law enforcement; or
3. An occurrence of food poisoning or communicable disease, as required by the state board of health, by telephone, to the local public health department.

Food Program

KIDSPACE has the following policies:

• Morning and mid-afternoon snacks are made available to enrolled children without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, or handicap. A third snack is made available to children at 5:00 p.m. Menus are posted weekly.
• Please notify KIDSPACE of any modified diet requests due to allergies, religious restrictions, or personal health requirements.
• All staff in charge of food handling are required to have Washington State Food Handlers Permits and KIDSPACE maintains standards necessary for obtaining a Food Handler’s Certificate.
• We are not able to serve food cooked in homes to children in the program. We are only able to serve commercially prepared foods or foods cooked at KIDSPACE.
• If you wish to bring a food for all children to eat (e.g. a treat), please check with the staff at least a day before you plan to bring it.

Guidelines for Children’s Lunches

Our number one goal is to be sure the children are well fed and nourished. After much research examining programs that provide lunches and those that don’t, and after many, many years of experience, we concluded the children receive the best nourishment if you, the parent, pack their lunches. You know what your child will eat and what they will NOT. Happy, healthy children are what we all want. For that reason, we ask that you pack their lunches. However, we will supplement their lunches with milk and a fruit every day.

The following are our guidelines:

• We will provide fruit and milk. You will not need to include beverages or fruit in your child’s lunch box unless you prefer to. The lunch supplement will be posted each week with the snack schedule.
• We will have supplies on hand to provide a lunch for a child who forgets their’s at home.
• Please label your child’s lunch box on the OUTSIDE with his/her first and last name.
• We provide refrigeration for lunches. You will be provided with a Ziploc bag for your child’s lunch items needing refrigeration.
• If you want to send a warm lunch, such as soup, please pack it in a thermos with a cup attached.
• We can help pour and serve.

In the interest of maintaining a healthy, nutritious lunchtime, we request that you do not send candy or soda pop or other sugary drinks in your child’s lunch. If such things are included in a child’s lunch, we will remove them and place them in his/her cubby for home use only.

Keep in mind, children have short attention spans – that goes for eating too. Even though we make lunchtime a relaxed social event, some children want to race through their lunch. Give your children healthy choices in their lunch box to make the most of their eating. It is better to have too many choices than not enough.

Children’s food intake can change from day to day, as well as their taste buds, so don’t give up on a food, either. Pack your child’s lunch wisely! Limit the salty, processed, overly sweet items.

PEANUT AND NUT FREE

KIDSPACE is a peanut and nut-free school. Please do NOT send food items made from peanuts or nuts of any kind. Peanut and nut allergies can be EXTREMELY dangerous, even fatal. In order to keep our environment safe for all children, we thank you for your willingness to put up with the inconveniences of not sending peanut butter and other peanut products in your child’s lunch.

A satisfactory lunch should provide at least one-third of the day’s nutrient needs. For the child 3 to 6 years of age, the following pattern will meet those lunch needs:

• Milk (3/4 cup) (KIDSPACE will provide)
• Meat or alternate protein 1 1/2 ounces
• Vegetables and fruits 1/2 cup (KIDSPACE CEC will provide 1/2 cup of fruit)
• Bread, whole wheat or enriched 1/2-1 slice

Suggestions for Meat or alternate proteins: Turkey, chicken, egg salad, scrambled egg, tuna salad, beans

Suggestions for breads: English muffins, Syrian pocket bread, sourdough rolls, raisin bread, tortillas (wheat or corn), rye, cornbread, whole wheat

Suggestions for sandwich fillers: Try a variety of cheeses, including mozzarella, cheddar, cottage cheese, colby, jack, provolone, and swiss

Try fruits and vegetables such as: shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes or peppers or a slice of jellied cranberry sauce with turkey (also makes a good spread instead of mayonnaise)

Bread Spreads: Mayonnaise can grow harmful bacteria if not refrigerated. For a sandwich spread use: margarine, cream cheese, mustard, catsup, avocado, relish

Vegetables – Finger Food Salads: Carrot wheels or sticks, cucumber wheels or sticks, celery sticks, cherry tomatoes, peppers strips or the miniatures, cauliflowerettes, broccoli trees

Foods to avoid: Salty foods (make chips a treat not the norm)

Foods with high sugar content: (fruit snacks and roll-ups are one of the worst)

POINTERS FOR LUNCH PACKERS

1. Pack something crisp, something chewy, something with color. Surprise your child with a note, sticker, or picture.
2. Wrap foods separately. Save food containers, plastic bags, etc, and re-use. Shop for containers that appeal to your child.

BREAKFAST IS BRAIN FOOD!

Children MUST eat a substantial, nutritious breakfast in the morning. If they won’t eat at home, have a breakfast packed and ready to go so they can eat at school.

KIDSPACE also offers cereal and milk every morning before 8:30.

CHECKLIST OF ITEMS YOUR CHILD SHOULD BRING TO SCHOOL

PLEASE!

Label all coats, boots, extra clothing, blankets, pillows, cuddly animals or any other personal belongings for your child. The staff can provide you with a permanent marker at school if your child’s belongings still need labeling when you come.

Please make sure the following documents are on file prior to the first day of school:

1. Registration Form and Child Release Authorization
2. Medical History signed and dated
3. Medical Authorization signed and dated
4. Financial Agreements and Release Authorizations signed and dated
5. Immunization Record (must be current)

Complete labeled change of clothes to leave at the center. (Shirts, pants, underwear, socks, shoes, etc.)

• Dress children in play clothes. Our day is full of “messy” art activities, sand and water play, outdoor fun, and cooking. Children should dress for school in comfortable clothing that is washable. Children play and work hard and should not have to worry about staying clean.
• Dressing children in layers of clothes probably provides them greater comfort for cold winter weather and play in the gym. We play outside daily. It is very important, therefore, that adequately warm clothing for outdoors is provided. Include a hat, mittens or gloves, and boots during the colder months. Be sure the children have a shirt under sweaters or sweatshirts so they don’t overheat while playing in the gym.
• In case of emergencies, your child will be provided with extra clothes to change into. Your child may be more comfortable if he/she has his/her own clothing to change into. Please wash and return clothes loaned to your child by KIDSPACE CEC.

Labeled bedding, if your child naps (fitted crib sheet, blanket, pillow and/or small stuffed animal) for nap/rest time.

• Children’s bedding must fit into their plastic container for sanitation purposes. These items will be sent home weekly to be washed.

Emergency Kit

With the awareness of potential earthquakes as well as other possible emergencies, we want to be prepared for any kind of disaster such as a neighborhood emergency, snowstorm, etc. If a severe natural disaster should occur, we may be caring for your children for an extended amount of time. We are asking that each child have his or her own bag of emergency supplies. We will send home a ziplock bag and directions for what to put in it.

Your child should not bring to the program:

• Toys that are defined as being fragile, of high personal value, or that can be labeled as a weapon by the program coordinator (i.e.guns, knives, toy grenades, slingshots, etc.).
• Food, except for lunch and pre-approved classroom treats
• Money, in pockets or purses

Some children who are feeling anxious about school may want to bring a special blanket, doll, etc., and they are welcome to do so.

Because KIDSPACE is concerned about the loss or damage of children’s belongings, we ask that parents understand that the toys children bring may be broken or damaged at school. KIDSPACE is not responsible for personal items that are broken or damaged while at school.

Gym and Outdoor Play Areas

The function of the indoor playground is much like any other space in the preschool classroom. Most of the time, the children are engaging in self-initiated activities just as they would on the outdoor playground. All staff will have an orientation on the proper teaching, spotting, and supervising techniques for all the equipment in gym and outdoor areas. The children will be instructed on safe play procedures through small group instructions and demonstrations.

PARENT* INFORMATION

*Parent is used to describe all significant family caregivers and/or legal guardians.
Parents are considered by the program staff to be the most important people in children’s lives; thus, parents are invited to participate in the program in a variety of ways:

• Observing the children and visiting are good ways to see how children interact and learn.
• Parents are also provided with weekly curriculum plans posted on the bulletin board.
• Informal daily contacts are possible when parents come in to pick up/drop off their children.
• Parents are encouraged to tour the classroom periodically with their child so they can show you how they spend their days, what they are interested in and what they’re learning and an opportunity to meet and greet friends of their child.
• Parents are encouraged to participate in field trips and special events or projects held throughout the year.
• Parents may select whatever level of involvement they choose and are free to ask at any time for assistance, information, or the opportunity to become more involved.

Open Door Policy

Parents are invited to visit their child at the center at ANY time. Parents also have a right to see their child’s file.

Keep Communication Open

Please talk to us about your child or the program. It is helpful if you notify us about special things your family is doing together or about things that have happened at home, which might influence your child’s behavior. We need to know things like “my child got up at 4:00 a.m. today” or any information that will help us provide the appropriate care for your child’s needs.

Please Share with Us

Come share your work or interests in our classroom. Do you have pictures, clothes, or music from a country other than the United States or your state that you would be willing to share with us? Do you have a hobby or interest you would like to share (examples — musical instruments, skiing, knitting)? We like to involve parents. Please tell us what you would like to share!

Miscellaneous Information

Birthdays or Special Occasions

Birthdays for each child are recognized at the school unless the child’s parents ask that we do not do so. If celebrations are planned outside the school, invitations must be delivered discreetly in family files only.

Field Trips

Children in supervised groups may participate in appropriate field trips only if the caregiver(s) has given permission via the Permission Form within your child’s file. Students in the Robins and Bluebird classes walk to Naydenov Gymnastic Center weekly for gymnastic instruction.

Visitors

We encourage parents to come and visit the center at any time the program is in operation and will ALWAYS have free access to their child. Other visitors are required to check with the director for permission to visit.

Inclement Weather Policy

Closures: KIDSPACE will be closed when weather conditions force closure of the Vancouver Public Schools OR the Evergreen Public Schools.

Delayed Opening: KIDSPACE will delay opening if Vancouver OR Evergreen School District has a delayed opening. We will open two hours late at 9:00 a.m. Preschool will begin at 10:00 a.m.

Early Closures: If Evergreen OR Vancouver School Districts close early due to weather conditions, we also will close early. We ask that you come as soon as possible to pick up your child.

We will close when all the children are safely picked up by their parent or an authorized adult.

Listen to local radio and television stations for announcements of closures or sign up for text or e-mail alerts from the Vancouver and Evergreen School District.

Our first concern is that our staff be safe when they travel to work.

Pesticide Policy

Background Information

Increasing concern about the impact of pesticides on children’s health has led to a law dealing with pesticide use in schools and licensed child care centers. As of July 1, 2002, public schools and licensed child care centers must provide annual notification of their pest control policies and methods, establish a system to notify families of children and employees of planned pesticide use, and post signs where pesticides have been applied. (Chapter 27.21 RCW, The Pesticide Application Act).

Definition of a Pesticide

A pesticide is a substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest. The term pesticide applies to:

• Pesticides (note: some fertilizers may contain pesticides)
• Insecticides (ie: ant or roach killer, flea and lice control products)
• Herbicides (ie: weed killers)
• Fungicides (ie: sanitizers, cleaners, mold and mildew cleaners, and bleach, except when it is used as a general sanitizer: one-quarter cup bleach to one gallon of water, then it is NOT considered a pesticide)
• Miticides (ie: mite control products; termite, dust, spider)

Intent of KIDSPACE Child Enrichment Center

We are dedicated to using the least amount of chemical control of pests in our program in order to provide the healthiest environment possible for our children. We do NOT regularly apply any pesticides to our outdoor play areas. We hand weed all areas in which the children play. In the event that a pesticide use is warranted in an outdoor play area it will be used on a Friday afternoon and the children will not be allowed outside during or after the application. We will notify families and staff at least forty-eight (48) hours before application in writing and we will post a pre-notification letter prominently on the parent bulletin board, the front door of the facility, and on each classroom door in the center. At the time of pesticide application notification signs will be posted for all pesticide applications made to child care grounds. The notification signs will be placed at the location of the application and at each entry point to the area being treated.

We do NOT regularly apply any pesticides inside our facility. In the event that we need a pesticide application, we will notify the families and staff at least forty-eight (48) hours before an application in writing and post the pre-notification letter in a prominent place on the parent bulletin board, the front door of the center, and on the door of every classroom.

Prior-notification procedures are not required in case of an emergency pesticide application for control of pests that pose an immediate human health or safety threat, such as an application to control stinging insects. In these cases notification will be provided as soon as possible, including posting at the time of application.

Parents, guardians and childcare employees will receive this notice annually each fall, upon enrollment, or within 30 days of hire, respectively.

Disaster Plan

Parents are required to review our disaster plan upon enrollment and annually thereafter. Staff will review it annually.

Supplies

KIDSPACE CEC will maintain the following supplies for disaster preparedness*:

• 3 day supply of water (1 gallon per person per day)
• Comfort Kits from home for each child
• A 3 day supply of non-perishable foods
• A complete first aid kit
• Flashlight, extra batteries, and matches
• A supply kit that includes: duct tape, scissors, plastic sheeting, whistles, paper, pens, crayons, pencils, needle and thread, can opener, eating utensils, knife, bleach, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, resealing food storage bags, towelettes, soap, detergent, toilet paper, plastic bags, a bucket and lid, a small shovel, a hard hat, child-appropriate activities such as games and small toys, and a disaster manual.

* These materials will be stored underneath the ramped area in the gym.
Upon evacuation, the staff will bring with them the attendance roster, an additional first aid kit and the emergency contact information for all children.

Notification of Emergency Event

In the event of a fire, building alarms will sound and the emergency lights will come on. Staff will enact rehearsed evacuation procedures with children.

Evacuation Process

Staff will lead children out of the building to the staging area on the sidewalk at the front of the play yard by the mailboxes. In the event, that we need to be farther from the buildings and the trees, we will safely cross the street and go to the parking lot of the medical buildings. Each teacher will be responsible to account for every child on the attendance roster and then it will be double checked by the director.

Staff will stay with evacuated children continuously until such time as the children are in the care of their families or other guardians.

A disaster plan for children with special needs will be developed individually and approved by the parents and reviewed annually by the staff.

Shelter

If the disaster harms the KIDSPACE building and parents/guardians are unable to come, staff will work with emergency personnel to find a safe alternative building for shelter.

If a disaster does occur, parents will be notified by phone as soon as possible. Parents may call the center (360) 944-9300, or if that is not possible, phone the out of town contact for information.

Preparedness

The staff at KIDSPACE CEC does conduct monthly emergency evacuation drills and/or earthquake drills with the children. Though we have never experienced a major disaster, we want to take precautions should an emergency state occur while your child or children are in our care. The most likely disasters identified for our site include: fire, earthquake, windstorms and winter storms.

In the event of a natural disaster:

Turn your radio to major stations (KEX 1190) on the AM dial. Information and directions will be given over the radio for general safety instructions.
As soon as it is deemed safe to travel, proceed to the center. If you work on the other side of the river, please have a backup available to get your child(ren) in case of a major bridge or freeway closure.
When you arrive at school, please do not block roadways with your car, and remember to maintain a calm and positive attitude in the presence of the children.
Children will be released ONLY to authorized persons who will provide their signature on the sign-out sheet.
Please make sure your Authorized Release Form is up to date and correct.
Is prepared to care for your child(ren) in times of critical situations if it takes you a while to get here.
Out of Town Contact

KIDSPACE CEC has designated Nick or Amanda Lascheck as the out-of-area phone contact in case of an emergency that disrupts phone lines. Their phone number is (425) 466-1141 and is also listed on a letter given to all parents/guardians of children in our program as part of our disaster plan.