My goal is to provide all of the children in my care, a clean, safe, comfortable, loving, environment, where they can play and learn. Respect toward self, others and the environment will be emphasized. I believe in the value of both structured and flexible schedules. Structured activities will include the use of a preschool curriculum, regular reading times, arts and crafts, and musical activities. Outdoor play, free play, birthday parties, are some of the more flexible activities we have. The most important priority is to have FUN! Please don't expect my home or your children to be perfectly clean at pickup time. We do lots of activities that are messy and will do our best to maintain cleanliness and order, but fun and the well being of the children will always take precedence over cleaning

COMMUNICATION:

Good communication is of the utmost importance to me. When I accept a new family into my business, I like to be sure that we can share openly about any concerns or questions that may arise. It is important that there is a similar childcare philosophy between the parents and me. I welcome questions, feedback, or discussions of any kind that are oriented towards a positive outcome for the child/(ren). Sensitive issues will be discussed in private outside of regular childcare hours either by telephone or a meeting as well as in writing.

DISCIPLINE:

Active and happy children are the sign of a good childcare. Occasionally discipline problems do arise, and the following methods are utilized:

Please keep in mind that there WILL be disagreements between children. Young children, especially, who are not adept at communication have a hard time expressing their feelings. Sometimes they hit or throw toys, etc. Although teaching children appropriate behavior is what I will be doing, remember that this behavior is normal in most cases

My guidance and discipline is preventative- not punishing. There will be no physical discipline. Methods of discipline may include:

Redirection of the Child's Behavior: Talk with the child, explain the problem or the inappropriate actions of the child and redirect the child.

Time Out: The child must sit away from group activities quietly for a period of 2 to 5 minutes, depending on the child's age. One minute per age.

Removal of Privilege: In order to use a consequence as a learning experience for the child, I will remove a privilege, which is logically in response to an inappropriate or not allowed behavior. For example, if a child continues to ride a tricycle in an unsafe manner after being aware of the safety rules, I may take away the privilege of riding the tricycle for a period of time.

If I feel there is a chronic behavioral issue that needs attention, I will let you know so that you and I are handling it in the same way and your child has continuity in discipline between our homes. These types of behaviors might include such things as biting, use of bad words, chronic hitting, etc. Together, we will try to find a solution. You may be called to remove your child if his/her behavior prevents me from being able to properly care for the other children. If the problem continues, other arrangements for the care of the child will have to be made, for the safety and well being of all.

Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES will there be any spanking, physical abuse, verbal abuse, name-calling or isolation used. Neither food nor sleep will ever be withheld from children as a means of punishment.

Children are never punished for lapses in toilet training or for accidents (spilled milk, for example). Instead, I will have the child help clean up if possible, not for punishment, but to help teach responsibility.

I am looking forward to a terrific relationship with you and your child.