Center Policies and Guidelines

At times families may be dealing with difficult situations at home. When legal matters are present in the home, families may need to collect affidavits for their legal team. Due to the nature of the relationship between caregiver and child, families may choose to ask a Caterpillar staff member to provide such a statement. Our program’s priority is providing the best possible care when children are away from home and our focus will remain on the child, making sure all their needs are met during what could be a difficult time at home. Caterpillar staff members will not provide written statements or affidavits of a professional nature to families. Every adult who cares for children has a responsibility to guide, correct and socialize children toward appropriate behaviors. These adult actions often are called child guidance and discipline. Positive guidance and discipline are crucial because they promote children’s self-control, teach children responsibility, and help children make thoughtful choices. The more effective caregivers are at encouraging appropriate child behavior, the less time and effort adults will spend correcting children’s misbehavior. Effective guidance and discipline focus on the development of the child. They preserve the child’s self-esteem and dignity. Actions that insult or belittle are likely to cause children to view their caregivers negatively, which can inhibit learning and teach the child to be unkind to others. However, actions that acknowledge the child’s efforts and progress, no matter how slow or small, are likely to encourage healthy development. Teaching children self-discipline is a demanding task. It requires patience, thoughtful attention, cooperation, and a good understanding of the child. Caterpillar Child Care Center will use only positive guidance techniques.

Schedule changes may be possible depending on the availability. If you are reducing the number of days your child attends, a month’s notice is required so that we may fill the available opening. We discourage parents from making more than one schedule changes per year to provide consistency for the groups and for individual children. Exceptions will be made only in extreme circumstances.

Tuition payment is due to the provider in advance of care and paid on Monday of the following week: All Payments can be made through the Procare App directly. The center doesn’t accept drop-off payments like personal checks, money orders, or cash payments. This agreement shall be in effect until which time the parent/guardian or provider has given termination notice in accordance to the Parent Handbook policy, or negotiation of a new contract.

For subsidy families Co-pays are due based on the enrollment agreement, usually weekly. We must report non- payment of co-pays to the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) if not paid by the agreed date. Payment can be using the Procare App or directly to the Director. Parents are responsible for any difference in tuition amount not cover by the ELRC, this amount will be added to your copay. Director will provide the parent with an itemize contract showing the amount not cover by ELRC and their total weekly copay.

Families with three or more children enrolled full-time at Caterpillar Childcare Center are eligible for a 10% discount to be applied to the youngest child’s weekly tuition fee.

Caterpillar charges a late fee of $10 per child five minutes after their scheduled pick-up time. Thereafter every ten minutes a child is present after scheduled pick-up time stated in the contract an additional $10 will be added to the account per child. Teachers will record late fees for processing. If there is a late pick-up fee, parents will receive a message from the Director through the Procare App stating the amount of the late pick-up fee. The fee will be added to your account an expected to be paid before drop-off the next business day. If a child is picked-up after 5:30pm an overtime fee of $15 will be added per child.

Overtime rates are considered any amount of time that care occurs prior to the scheduled drop off time or after the scheduled pick-up time. An advance notice by the parent/guardian and approval by the Director is required prior to receiving service for the day. Without advance notice by the parent/ Guardian and approval by the Director, the overtime rate will be $15 per hour for late pick-up after 5:30 P.M. for days and hours not listed on the contract.

Families that are two weeks behind in payments may have their childcare services terminated. For information about assistance programs that will help cover the cost of childcare tuition, please speak with the Director. A payment plan must be agreed upon between family and Center before an account will be considered “in good standing” and no longer eligible for termination. This will include late penalties, as stated in the policy, from date due to date paid, plus legal fees if applicable. If payment is more than 10 business days past due, we may attempt to recover payment in small claims court and / or your account may be sent to a 3rd party collection agency. You will be responsible for all expenses associated with these actions including all court and attorney fees. Any parent under the subsidy program Caterpillar Childcare Center will report any late payment to ELRC within 5 days of non-payment this could result in a suspension of your benefit until account reports good standing.

It is important for our staff to deliver the high standard of quality care to each of the children enroll in our program and be able to assess their needs. During these in service days staff will be able to boost their teaching techniques by attending training courses that will expose them to new concepts or research, and begin to develop new and creative ideas that will allow your child to become more successful spiritually, socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively. To accomplish this, we include two in-service days per year. Last Friday in April and the end of August (the Friday before Labor Day). The center will be closed to children. Tuition is expected.

In the event that a child needs to take an extended absence, such as a summer break or maternity leave, and wishes to return to the program after a period of time, a fee of 50% of the weekly tuition must be paid each week the child is not present. More than two consecutive weeks of non-payment and no contact with the Director could result in termination of enrollment. The Director must approve extended absences days before an extended absence is consider.

Parents are required to accompany their child into the center and into their child’s classroom. Parents should also speak with the teacher in the classroom, if only briefly. We encourage parents to communicate with their child’s teacher, about their child’s temperament that particular day, how he/she slept the night before, whether he/she has eaten that morning, etc. Most children go through periods of difficulty with separating from their parent(s). This is common and developmentally appropriate. Try these tips for a successful drop-off:

• Establish a regular, predictable routine. Whether you have a kiss and a hug and go. What often makes separating stressful for children is the uncertainty. If your child can predict what will happen, the separation will not be as difficult.
• Separate once. If you come back into the classroom over again and again, it will increase your child’s stress. Remember the moment of separation is the worst part for your child, so doing it more than once makes it more stressful for your child.
• Be reliable. Return when promised. Children who are picked up later than expected may have more difficulties separating. Phrase time in terms your child will understand. For example, you will be back after snack time or before naptime. Any child arriving at the center after 10:00AM will be sent home for the day. Parents must abide by the drop-off time schedule in the contract. In an event of an emergency, they have until 10:00am to drop-off their child for care. Any time after 10:00am will result in automate absent for the day.

Childcare Center closes at 5:30pm Monday through Friday. If you will be late picking up your child, please provide us with as much notice as possible. Please note that there is a late fee of $15 for arriving after 5:30pm per child. An additional fee of $10 will be added per every 10 minutes past their pickup time. If someone we are not familiar with is to pick up your child, it is essential that you inform your child’s teacher in advance of the pick-up. This person must be listed as an authorized person on the Emergency Contact and Parent Consent form. Remind the authorized person that they may be asked for identification such as a driver’s license to ensure your child’s safety. Even if the individual has picked up before, he or she may still need identification if the teacher in charge has never met him or her. Be sure to say good-bye to your child’s teachers so they know you are leaving. Once you have reunited with your child and are departing, Caterpillar Childcare Center is no longer responsible for your child. For safety reasons, please do not let your child run ahead of you inside or outside of the building. If parents do not arrive to pick up their child from the program, staff members will first try to contact the parents using all phone numbers provided on the Emergency Contact and Medical Consent form. If parents are, unable to be reached, staff members will try to contact all emergency contact persons. If staff members are unable to contact emergency contact persons, the Director and/or Assistant Director will be notified and she will then notify the Department of Human Services and/or the Muhlenberg Police Department.

Regular attendance is strongly encouraged for the benefit of the child as well as the classroom as a whole. If your child will be absent, please call the center by 7:00 A.M. so your child’s teacher may make accommodations to the lesson plan. If your child will be absent for an extended period of time (more than 2-3 days), the center must be notified in writing of the date the absence begins and the expected date your child will return. Enrollment will be terminated if a child is absent for a period of 1 weeks or more, and no notice has been received or contact made by the family.

Care Termination Policy

• 30 DAYS TRIAL PERIOD
  The first two weeks of a child’s enrollment is a trial period for both the parents and the center. During the Thirty days of trial, the parent or the provider can terminate the childcare contract without reason or notice as listed below in the termination of childcare agreement. No childcare payments are reimbursed in the event of termination
• TERMINATION OF CHILDCARE AGREEMENT

  Occasionally, a child will experience some difficulty in adapting to the daycare’s environment or abiding by the daycare rules of behavior. A conference will be scheduled if your child should experience some difficulty. We will work closely with you to see if the problem can be resolved. If the child’s behavior continues to be disruptive to the group, we reserve the right to ask you to withdraw your child from daycare. You must give a two weeks’ notice when voluntarily withdrawing your child from Caterpillar Childcare Center. You will be responsible for all final payments through the end of the notice period, whether in attendance or not. If the rules and policies set forth are not followed, we reserve the right to terminate the daycare contract agreement at any time. In such an event, we will be paid in full through the end of the week in which such termination occurs.

  The child care arrangements will be terminated immediately for any of the following reasons (but not limited to):

  • Failure to comply with the policies set forth in the parent handbook.
  • Failure to comply with the contract.
  • Destructive or hurtful behavior of a child that persists even with parent cooperation in stopping the behavior.
  • Non-payment of childcare or late fees and/or recurring late payment of fees.
  • Repeated failure to pick up the child at scheduled times. (Habitual tardiness)
  • Failure to show up for 5 consecutive days without any communication.
  • Inability to meet the child’s needs without additional staff.
  • Blatant disrespect towards the provider or provider’s family.
  • If a parent knowingly brings their child ill.
  • Lack of parental Cooperation
  • Consistent child-rearing style differences between the parent and provider.
  • Physical or verbal abuse of any person or property
  • False information given by a parent either verbally or in writing.

If for any reason legal services are needed, Caterpillar Childcare Center or Karina De Paula will not be responsible for any legal or court costs incurred.

Caterpillar Child-Care providers are selected based on their education, child-care experience, trustworthiness, and dependability. General professional staff qualification includes advanced educational studies in child development, early childhood education, child psychology, nursing, and/ or other related fields or a minimum of one year’s experience caring for children in the assigned age group. The level or scope of experience required is largely dependent upon specific requirements as defined by the position description.
In order to ensure that employees or other persons regularly providing child care or support services with potential for unsupervised contact with children at Caterpillar we are appropriate for serving in their positions, (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check, Child Abuse, Pennsylvania State Police and National Sex Offender Clearances. The Child Protective Services Law (CPSL) requires certain individuals to obtain clearances in order to be employed, be a resource parent (foster or adoptive), or be a volunteer with children. The purpose for requiring clearances is to provide employers and those selecting volunteers with information to use as part of a larger decision-making process whether to hire someone as an employee or select them as a volunteer. Caterpillar Childcare Center must ensure that clearances are obtained in accordance with the CPSL.
All background record checks shall be performed on all candidates for positions before an offer of employment is confirmed. According to PA Act 153, all clearances are due for renewed every 60 months on all persons in such positions and/ or any time the program receives information that may indicate that a new Background Record Check review is appropriate.

Registered parents and their families are encouraged to visit the center during hours of operation for the purpose of visiting with their child, evaluating the care provided by the center, and/ or evaluating the premises. For the safety and protection of our children, all parents and family members must check in with the Administrator or designee before proceeding to their child’s room. Due to scheduled activities, we reserve the right to limit visitation time frames.

Caterpillar Childcare Center is a public program voluntarily licensed to serve 29 children by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. Copy of the licensing rules is available for review out-side above the infant Room window.

Each fall, Caterpillar Childcare Center completes an audit of enrollment records. At the conclusion of this audit, families will be notified if anything needs to be updated. Some forms must be updated every year, including the Emergency Contact and Medical Consent form. Most forms may be completed electronically; if you wish to receive a PDF version of the enrollment forms, please provide your email address to the Director and/or Assistant Director. Other records must be updated throughout the year, such as physicals and immunization records. When visiting your child’s physician for a yearly “well-child” appointment, please request a copy of your child’s physical and most recent immunization record. You may bring these items in yourself, or have your physician mail them to the center. In addition, any time a family’s information changes such as address, place of employment or health insurance provider, a new Emergency Contact and Medical Consent form must be completed.

Confidentiality is a top priority for Caterpillar Childcare Center. Personal information of families and staff will not be shared for any reason without prior written consent of the individual. When discussing a child’s activities and friends in the classroom, only first names will be used. In situations regarding behavior problems and/or Incident/Accident Reports, names of children involved will never be given to families.

Caterpillar Childcare Center will accept children with special needs if reasonable accommodation is possible. Our staff member will work with the child’s therapist or other professional to accommodate the child or make referrals to more appropriate settings when necessary. The more information provided to us about the child and the resources he or she requires the better Caterpillar Childcare Center will be able to meet those needs. Upon enrollment, Caterpillar Childcare Center requests copies of all children’s IEP, written plans, and or special needs assessments completed by a professional to inform classroom practice. It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure the Caterpillar Childcare Center always has a current copy.

The center uses Procare Software for daily Sign-in/sign-out and parent communication. This log must be signed when your child is dropped off and picked up at the center. Please do not allow children to enter or exit the building without a parent or guardian
Drop Off/Pick-Up Procedures
✓ Use the main entrance door when you enter and exit the facility.
✓ Park on the designated parking spaces behind the building.
✓ Assist your children down the walk way to the front of the building
✓ Ring the bell and do not let children bang on the door.
✓ Do not allow other parents/staff to enter the building with you.
✓ Stay with your child until a staff member directs your child to their assign classroom.
✓ Advice the staff if there are any changes in pick-up time or person picking up child.

At NO time can a child be unsupervised within our grounds.
At NO time can a child be left in the parking lot in a car unsupervised, or can a car be left running in our parking lot.

If you have any questions, please see Mrs. Karina, Center Director Thank You!

The center uses Procare for daily Sing-in/sign-out and as the form of communication for parents. Parents are required to make an account for their child. Through this app teacher and parents can communicate, receive announcements, pictures, daily updates, and many other figures. You will receive a 4-digit code, which you will use to log your child in and out of the center. It is not allowed for anyone other than the person listed as authorize to drop off/pick up the child to sign through the App.

Caterpillar Childcare Center must be notified in writing if anyone other than a parent or someone listed on your emergency form will be picking up your child. The note should include name, address, phone number, and relationship to child, as well as the date and approximate time of pick-up. If at any time our staff is not familiar with someone picking up your child, they will be asked for photo identification. If we are still unsure, the parent will be contacted for verification. This is for your child’s safety. We regret any inconvenience this may cause. Telephone authorization will only be accepted if a staff member can identify the caller without question.

It is Caterpillar’s policy to not interfere with the custody relationship of a child’s parents. As much, we assume that both parents/guardians have equal rights to pick-up/drop-off, or request documentation on a child. If that is not the case, it is the parents’/ guardian’s responsibility to provide certified court documents of the most recent Order and all amendments there to clarifying the rights and responsibilities of the parent and/or guardians. Caterpillar will follow the last dated court documents without bias to either parent/guardian.

• Drop-Off Routin
  In the morning parent will sign in child in the Procare App, A Staff member will perform a daily morning health check on every child and record result on a daily sheet. In the event a child is find out to be sick in our morning health check routine the parent will need to take the child back home and check with their medical provider to determine what is the cause of illness and if it contagious or not. Child will need a doctor’s clearance notes to be admitted back into the center. Any child returning to the center after being sick without a medical provider note will be sent back home no exception until a medical note is provided.
• Pick-Up Routine
  Parent/ guardian picking up their child at the schedule time should sign the child off the Procare App. Staff member will hand-out the child winter attire if is the time of the year. The parents are responsible to put the winter attires on and take it off and hand it to the staff.

In the event of a special activities the Director will communicate with the parent/guarding to inform what is the activity and when it would be held and what is the fee per child or if any food donation from parents is needed. Please check your pro-care app through your day since this main communication method we use.

Visitor may schedule a tour through the facility based on time availability and approval of the administrator. The Administrator in conjunction with the visitor’s request will agree on the date and time. All visitors must meet with the approval of the Administrator and must abide by the safety and security requirements enforced for the protection of the children. Families wishing to observe child-care services before their child enters the program may do so upon administrative approval. No one shall wander the center unaccompanied by a staff representative unless prior approval has been received. This policy is maintained for the confidentiality, safety and welfare of our children and families. We encourage parents to call or visit the center at any time. We highly encourage and welcome parent participation. We do, however, reserve the right to limit the time periods of visits should this action be disrupting to the classroom activities and distracting to the children.

Please feel free at any time to inquire regarding your child’s status. The office manager will check with your child’s primary care provider and/ or the administrator to help provide you with requested information. Telephones are maintained in the classrooms for emergency use and office communication.

The classroom’s teachers work cooperatively to create a daily schedule and plan activities that meet each child’s developmental abilities and needs. The daily schedule and activities create a balance between active and quiet times; large and small group, and individual activities; small and large muscle activities; indoor and outdoor play times; as well as times for self-selection and teacher-directed activities.

Consistency from day-to-day is particularly important to the overall well-being of the children and classroom environment. Children thrive on consistency! Routines will be maintained whenever possible for arrivals and departures; meals and snacks; resting or nap times; personal care routines like diapering/toileting and hand washing; and transitions.

If a parent/ guardian is planning to take vacation and child will not be in-care, a four-week notice in writing is require to be given to the director. Caterpillar will allow 1 weeks a year for full-time child and 1 week for part-time child free of charge.

When a child is sick, the parent/guardian is expected to make every effort to give the provider as much notice as possible. Parent/guardian is still expected to pay. Please use the Procare app to communicate and provide notice.

In the event a child becomes sick while in the center, the following protocol will take place:

• Staff in charge will take the child’s temperature and complete the Sick in Care Child Form.
• Parent will be notified of the situation.
• Parent will make every effort to pick up the sick child within one hour after notice and follow up with their primary doctor.
• A clearance note from the doctor is required before the child can be admitted back into the center.

Caterpillar Child Care Center supports the continued development of every child’s home language. We understand that loss of home language has potential negative long-term consequences for the child’s academic, social, and emotional development, as well as for family dynamics. Our teachers adopt effective strategies to support home language development in conjunction with parents, even when the teachers are monolingual English speakers. Strategies include using words, visual posters, music, and even sign language to help the child understand what he or she is being taught.

The center is organized and staffed to minimize the number of transitions children experience. Being mindful of the importance of the bonds established with teachers and peers, every effort is made to maintain the continuity of relationships between teaching staff and children and among groups of children. Every effort is made to keep infants (6-16 months), toddlers (12-36 months), and preschoolers (36 months to the first day of kindergarten) together with their teacher. Developmental needs or concerns are always considered when planning transitions for children. Clear communication takes place between the center and home, as well as among teaching staff.

Frequent hand washing with soap and warm, running water is the most effective way to reduce and prevent the spread of illnesses commonly found in childcares, such as the flu, diarrhea, and pink eye. Parents are encouraged to assist their child in the hand washing process upon arrival.

Other times your child and staff members will be expected to wash their hands include:

• Upon arriving at the center
• After each diaper change or using the toilet
• Before and after meal times
• Before and after administering medication
• After handling bodily fluids (mucus, blood, vomit)
• Before and after using the sensory table
• After coming indoors from the playground
• After handling pets and other animals
• After cleaning or handling garbage

Warm, running water (no hotter than 110°F) and soap must be used. Hands must be rubbed vigorously for at least 20 seconds, including the backs of hands, between fingers, under nails, and under any jewelry. A disposable paper towel should be used to dry hands and turn off the faucet. Help reinforce the importance of hand washing by encouraging frequent hand washing at home as well.

“Free-play” (also called child-initiated activities, free choice, and self-selection) activities are incorporated into the morning and afternoon schedule. During free-play, teachers actively participate with the children by asking questions about what the children are doing, participating in their pretend play, reading books when prompted, encouraging children to try new activities or play with a new toy, etc. Free-play is another opportunity for a child to grow socially and cognitively through the development of relationships.

Outdoor play is incorporated into the daily schedule for both the morning and afternoon. There is less structure in an outdoor learning environment; however, staff members actively engage in activities when prompted by the children. Outdoor play is an opportunity for children to run, jump, climb and use their bodies in ways that would otherwise be unsafe in an indoor classroom. In addition, a large amount of social interaction takes place when children play outdoors. Because they are engaged in fewer teacher-directed activities and more child-directed play, children are able to choose their friends and who to interact with.
Children will go outside year-round, including winter. Only during extreme weather conditions will the children remain indoors. Our teachers refer to the Child Care Weather Watch poster from the Pennsylvania Department of Public Health to determine if it is too hot or cold to play outdoors. It is important for parents to send their children in appropriate clothing and outerwear for the weather conditions (e.g., coat, snow pants, boots, gloves, etc.). Please clearly label all articles of clothing with your child’s name. Caterpillar has a few extra hats and mittens, but not enough for every child. If a child is not dressed appropriately for the weather, he or she may have to remain inside. Please ask your child’s teacher if you have any questions about weather-appropriate clothing.

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services requires that all children must be provided a regularly scheduled nap or resting time. Children will not be forced to sleep but may be encouraged to lie quietly for a period of time. The length of time a child should have to remain resting varies by child. There is no hard and fast rule regarding the maximum amount of time a child should have to remain resting. Children should be provided alternative quiet activities if unable to rest.
Children are encouraged to bring a familiar item from home to use during nap/rest time, such as a small blanket or stuffed animal. These items will be stored in your child’s cubby or on his/her cot or mat; there is limited space for storage of such items. Please consider this when deciding which items to bring. All items should be clearly labeled with your child’s name, as all class laundry is washed weekly.

The use of multimedia in our program is an extension of the teaching and learning that takes place in our classrooms. Teachers may select movie, television, and computer game titles based upon weekly themes. Children are not required to view part or all of a video or television show, or to play computer games. Instead, the activity is offered as one of several centers.
All multimedia must have a rating of “PG” or “E” and must possess an educational theme. Children are limited to a specified amount of time per week they may use or view multimedia:

• Under 2 years old: 0 minutes/week
• 2-year-olds: Maximum 20 minutes/week
• 3-year-olds: Maximum 30 minutes/week
• 4-5-6-year-olds: Maximum 30 minutes/week

There is a strict policy of allowing no weapon play at Caterpillar. Children are not permitted to play with weapons of any type or size or to pretend that other items are weapons, including their fingers, hands, or blocks. Redirection should be used when a child is engaging in weapon or violent play. If a child brings a weapon to Caterpillar Child Care Center, the weapon should be placed out of sight and sent home the same day with a note explaining the policy about weapons. Competitive behavior is minimized in our programs. In young children, competition often increases negative behavior and decreases acceptance of others. Bullying is not considered acceptable behavior; all efforts will be made to guide children in finding appropriate ways to interact with others.

Staff may introduce a class pet to the classroom. Pets and visiting animals that are brought into the classroom must be carefully considered for their temperament, health risks, and appropriateness for young children. No animal may be brought into Caterpillar Child Care Center without first notifying and receiving permission from the Director and/or Assistant Director. Once approved by the Director and/or Assistant Director, pets and visiting animals must have documentation from a licensed veterinarian or animal shelter to show that the animal(s) is fully immunized and that the animal is suitable for contact with children.

Our center uses Vine, an assessment tool provided by the Procare Software. This assessment enables teachers to reflect on their students’ real performance, shows their weak and strong domains, observes students’ progress during the learning process, and encourages students to take responsibility for their own learning. In addition, assessments help us begin to construct a well-rounded and authentic picture of each child so we are better able to plan our program to build on individualized strengths and support each child’s developmental growth. Children’s involvement in assessing their own work is also a key part of this process.

A permanent assessment portfolio will be kept for each child and passed to the next teacher when a child transitions. These portfolios will not be released to anyone outside Caterpillar Childcare Center without written permission from the parent/guardian. Assessment portfolios will contain a variety of items, including photographs, examples of artwork, assessment profiles, and parent-teacher conference forms. It is the responsibility of the Lead Teacher and Full-Time Assistant Teacher to ensure portfolios are periodically and continuously updated. Portfolios may not leave the center premise. When a child leaves Caterpillar Childcare Center, the assessment portfolio should be given to the family.

Parent-teacher conferences will typically be held at least once per year or each time your child transitions classrooms. The goal of the parent-teacher conference is to gain insight into your child’s development in both the center setting as well as the home setting. During conferences, your child’s development and any goals you may have for your child will be discussed. Parents are encouraged to request conferences whenever they feel it necessary.

Caterpillar offers a variety of experiences both at and away from the center. Field trips outside the city limits and/or longer than 2 hours will require a “Field Trip Permission Form.” Parents will be notified at least one week in advance of all field trips requiring a “Field Trip Permission Form.” If you do not wish for your child to attend a particular field trip, please find alternative childcare arrangements for that day, as we will not have staff available to stay behind with children not participating in the field trip. As a participant in our childcare program, your child may participate in short, unannounced field trips including but not limited to walks as a class around the perimeter of the building and/or nearby neighborhoods; trips to local playgrounds; trips to local businesses. Teacher-child ratios are maintained at all times. A “Parent/Guardian Permissions” form must be completed at the time of enrollment for this type of field trip.

Before a field trip, every child will be seated in its car seat or booster seat with the seat belt fastened. Limits and/or longer than two hours will require a “Field Trip Permission Form.” Parents will be notified at least one week in advance of all field trips requiring a “Field Trip Permission Form.” If you do not wish for your child to attend a particular field trip, please find alternative childcare arrangements for that day, as we will not have staff available to stay behind with children not participating in the field trip. As a participant in our childcare program, your child may participate in short, unannounced field trips, including but not limited to: walks as a class around the perimeter of the building and/or nearby neighborhoods; trips to local playgrounds; trips to local businesses. Teacher-child ratios are maintained at all times. A “Parent/Guardian Permissions” form must be completed at the time of enrollment for this type of field trip.

1. Will take place every 5-10 minutes during a field trip, as well as at the following times:

• Before leaving the classroom
• Before starting the vehicle (after buckling children)
• After students exit the vehicle at the field trip location
• After entering the field trip location
• When exiting the field trip location
• Before starting the vehicle (after buckling children)
• After exiting the vehicle at Caterpillar Club House
• When returning into the classroom

When traveling from one destination to the next in a line, one teacher will remain at the beginning of the line and one teacher will remain at the end of the line. Headcounts will happen every five minutes.

Required materials before every field trip takes place:

• Permission slips
• First aid kit
• A copy of Caterpillar missing child procedure
• Clipboard containing:
  • That day’s attendance
  • Pocket lanyards for each teacher containing:
    • Class list with that day’s attendance
    • Class total number
    • Emergency phone numbers
    • Caterpillar phone number
    • Children’s “if lost” headshots

*Other Field Trip Policies: Only staff members are allowed to take children to the bathroom.*

Good nutrition is vital to children’s overall development and well-being. In an effort to provide the best possible nutrition environment for the children in our facility, Caterpillar Childcare Center has developed the following childcare nutrition policies to encourage the development of good eating habits that will last a lifetime.

• Breakfast is served from 7:30-9:00 AM. If your child arrives after 8:30 AM, he/she must come already fed.
• Lunch is served from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM.
• Afternoon snack is served from 3:30-4:00 PM.

At Caterpillar, we are very concerned with choking hazards. Whole hot dogs or hot dog slices, whole grapes, nuts, popcorn, raw peas, hard pretzels, spoonsful of peanut butter, chunks of raw carrots, or large meat chunks are not allowed.

All medical forms will be sent with the child to the hospital.

Caterpillar Childcare Center follows the childcare nutrition guidelines recommended by the USDA CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) for all the foods we serve. To provide a healthy and balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting foods and beverages high in sugar and/or fat, our nutrition policy includes the following:

• Fruits and Vegetables
  • Fruit is served at least 2 times a day.
  • A vegetable other than white potatoes is offered at least once a day.
• Grains
  • Whole grain food is served at least once a day.
• Beverages
  • Juice intake is limited to once per day in a serving size specified for the child’s age group.
  • Juice served is 100% fruit juice.
  • Sugar-sweetened beverages are not served.
  • Only 1% milk is served to children aged 2 years and older.
• Fats and Sugars
• High-fat meals, such as bologna, bacon, and sausage, are served no more than once per week.
• Fried or pre-fried vegetables, including potatoes, are served no more than once per week.
• Sweet food items are limited to no more than two times per week.

• Staff provide opportunities for children to learn about nutrition at least once per week.
• Staff act as role models for healthy eating in front of the children.

Meal and snack times are planned so that no child goes more than four hours without being offered food. A variety of nutritionally balanced, high-quality foods is provided daily.

Please do not send your child with outside food or drinks. Any outside food without prior authorization from the director will be tossed to prevent allergies.

Our monthly menus are carefully planned to follow childcare nutrition guidelines at every meal. Each menu is designed to provide a wide variety of nutritious foods that differ in color, shape, size, and texture. All menus include foods that are culturally diverse and seasonally appropriate. New and different foods are introduced alongside children’s favorite recipes.
Menus are rotated monthly to provide a balance of variety and familiarity. Local and fresh in-season produce is incorporated whenever available.

At Caterpillar Childcare Center, staff will never use food as a reward or punishment.

If you would like to recognize your child’s birthday, we request that you not send in treats or goody bags but instead send a birthday book.
With prior director approval, parents are allowed to bring in cupcakes for the birthday child and classmates. For theme celebrations, a sign-up sheet specifying food and beverages will be posted next to the sign-in/sign-out station.

Annual nutrition training is required to ensure that all staff understand the important role nutrition plays in the overall well-being of children.

Based on the needs of the children, the facility may be peanut-free. In the case a center is peanut-free, no food containing or processed in a facility with peanuts is allowed in the center. Children are welcome to bring in special treats to celebrate a birthday or holiday. Due to various food allergies and dietary restrictions in our classrooms, we recommend supplying store-bought snacks still in the original packaging. A list of healthy snack options approved by the USDA and Pennsylvania Department of Education is available from the Director and/or Assistant Director.

If your child has a food allergy, please complete a Food Allergy Action Plan form, available in the office. This form will be posted in your child’s room, as well as in food preparation areas. If medication for an allergic reaction is provided, please have your physician sign the Food Allergy Action Plan as well.

The following information is specific to the infant, toddler, and two-year-old program rooms:

• Parents must supply diapers, diaper cream, bottles, formula, baby food, extra clothing, pacifiers, blankets, and stuffed toys for rest time. Please label all items with the child’s name.
• Children may use pacifiers during rest time. To reduce the likelihood of spreading illness, pacifiers must be kept in a child’s cubby or diaper bag during all other times of the day.
• If you are breastfeeding, please discuss with your child’s teacher when your child should be fed breast milk, and when you would like to come in and feed your child.
• Breast milk must be brought in ready-to-use containers. For health reasons, we are not able to store bags of frozen milk for extended periods.
• We recommend that all new foods be tried at home first since a child could have an allergic reaction to foods they have not had before. Please inform your child’s teachers on the daily charts of any new foods your child has tried.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the unexpected, sudden death of a child under age one for which a cause of death cannot be identified. It is not known what causes SIDS; however, several sleeping practices have been linked to an increased risk for SIDS. Therefore, Caterpillar has a strict policy for infant sleep placement.

• All infants less than one year will be placed on their back to sleep.
• Infants shall not be allowed to sleep in a car seat or swing for a period of longer than 15 minutes.
• Once a child has been placed in his or her crib for a nap, if the infant rolls from back to front – and is able to roll from front to back – it is acceptable to leave the infant sleeping on his or her stomach.
• No heavy blankets, stuffed toys, or pillows should ever be placed in a crib.
• A request for alternative sleeping positions must be accompanied by a signed and dated physician’s note stating the reason for the request.

This policy is designed to prevent the possibility of abusive head trauma during care. Abusive head trauma (also referred to as Shaken Baby Syndrome) occurs in infants and young children, whose neck muscles are not well developed and whose heads are larger relative to their bodies. As a result, they are especially susceptible to head trauma caused by any type of forceful or sudden shaking, with or without blunt impact. Damage can occur in as little as 5 seconds.
Abusive head trauma can occur in children up to 5 years of age; however, infants less than one year are at greater risk of injury. Shaken Baby Syndrome can lead to serious conditions including:

• Brain damage, problems with memory and attention, cerebral palsy.
• Blindness or hearing loss.
• Intellectual, speech, or learning disabilities.
• Developmental delays.

A copy of a more extensive policy is located in the infant room binder close to the door.

Please send your child to Caterpillar in comfortable play clothes and shoes. Play is usually active and often messy; comfortable, washable clothes are important if your child is to participate fully in the program. Outdoor play is scheduled every day as an essential part of our planned curriculum. We expect all children to be dressed appropriately for both indoor and outdoor activities. All children occasionally get their clothes wet and have toileting accidents. Whenever this occurs, it is best to change the child into an extra set of clothing provided by the family. Your child’s teacher will request that you bring a complete change of clothing, including underwear, to be kept at the center and replenished as needed. Due to health reasons, if a child soils their underwear, it may be thrown away. Please be sure to clearly label all items of clothing. Let the teacher know whenever your child’s clothing or other items cannot be located.

While we realize that all children have special treasures such as stuffed toys, recent gifts, etc., we encourage these to be left at home except on Show & Tell Days. Each class has a scheduled time and/or theme for sharing set by your child’s teacher. Your child’s teacher will notify you in advance of share days. Remember to take your child’s share day treasure home at the end of the day. We cannot assume responsibility for items left at the center. Please do not permit your child to bring any fragile items. We also ask that children not bring in anything violent in nature such as toy guns, knives, swords, etc. If a child does bring in a questionable item, it will either be sent home upon arrival or be put in the cubby and not shared. Please check with your child’s teacher if you have any questions. It is recommended that items of value, such as iPods, tablets, handheld gaming systems, gold necklace, unscrew earrings be left at home, due to the risk of damage, lost or theft. Caterpillar Childcare Center is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged items.

At Caterpillar Childcare Center, we feel the responsibility in Reporting Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect and we take our responsibility seriously. Whether physical or emotional, can happen in all types of family, from all lifestyles and in varying degrees. When abuse occurs, both children and parent/guardian are the victims and need support, understanding and help. Our staff have been qualified to recognize the signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect. Parents may ask the Center Director for a confidential referral for outside intervention and suggested resources for prevention and assistance in dealing with this sensitive matter.
Should abuse and neglect be suspected, these steps are the usual course of action (unless state(s)) mandate differ:

• Staff member will discuss the suspected case to the Center Director
• The Center Director will observe the child; talk with child to determine if abuse or neglect is a possible cause.
• The Centers Director may discuss the concerns with the child’s parent/guardian.
• The staff and center Director will determine if there is a need to notify a Child Protective Agency. The staff member involved is entitled to make an independent report.

To protect the children in our care, we take the following measures:

• All state requires staff screening and background checks
• Observe and evaluate the performance of staff
• Monitor classrooms, activities, and staff members

As childcare professionals who interact with children on a daily basis, each staff member of Caterpillar Childcare Center is a mandatory child abuse and neglect reporter and must contact the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Childline at 800-932-0313 whenever abuse or neglect is suspected.

Our first priority at Caterpillar Childcare Center is providing a healthy, safe learning environment for all children. A yearly physical examination is required for each child at the center. In addition, immunization records must be kept current and submitted to the Center upon receiving updates. A child will be sent home as soon as possible if any of the following is experienced: an illness prevents the child from participating comfortably in activities as determined by the staff; an illness results in a greater need for care than the staff can reasonably provide without compromising the health or safety of other children in the classroom; or a child is experiencing any of the following conditions.
Criteria regarding signs or symptoms of illness, which will determine whether a child will be included or excluded from the center prior to morning drop off:

➢ Fever of 100.4* or greater, until 24 hours symptoms free without fever reducing medication
➢ Sign/ symptoms of severe illness, including lethargy, uncontrolled coughing, inexplicable irritability or persistent crying, difficulty breathing, and/ or wheezing.
➢ Diarrhea not associated with diet changes or medications; multiple loose or watery instances within an hour; or accompanied with fever and or vomiting until diarrhea stops for 24 hours or the continued diarrhea is deemed not be infectious by a licensed health care professional.
➢ Blood in stools not explainable by dietary change, medication or hard stools
Vomiting the child can return after vomiting has been resolved for 24 hour or until a health care provider determines the cause for vomiting is not contagious and the child is not in danger of dehydration
➢ Persistent abdominal pain continues more than 2 hours or intermittent pain associated with fever or other signs/ symptoms of illness.
➢ Mouth Sores with drooling, unless a health care provider determines the sores ate not contagious rash until a physician determines that these symptoms do not indicate a communicable disease.
➢ Pink Eye (conjunctivitis) Until after treatment has been initiated for 24 hours
➢ Evidence of Scabies (lice or other parasitic infestation) until after treatment has been completed
Tuberculosis: until a health care provider state that the child is on appropriate therapy and can attend child care
➢ Impetigo: Until 24 hours after treatment has been initiated
➢ Strep throat: Until 24 hours after initial antibiotic treatment and cessation of fever
➢ Chicken Pox: Until all sore have dried and crusted (usually 6 days)
➢ Hand Foot and Mouth: Until Sores have dried and crusted and no fever
➢ Pertussis: Until 5 days of appropriate antibiotic treatment has been completed
➢ Mumps: Until 9 days after onset of symptoms with a clearance note from Doctor
➢ Hepatitis A Virus: Until 1 week after onset of illness
➢ Measles: Until 4 days after onset of rash
➢ Rubella: Until 6 days after onset of rash, unspecified respiratory tract illness accompanied by another illness, which requires exclusion.
➢ Herpes Simplex: with uncontrollable drooling needs to be clearance by a Physician before returning to the center.
➢ Jaundice (appearing on skin or eyes) needs to be clearance by a Physician before returning to the center
➢ Redness, burning, or itching of the eyes until after treatment has been initiated for 24 hours
Unusually dark urine and/ or grey or white stools needs to be clearance by a Physician before returning to the center.
➢ Sore throat or difficulty swallowing
➢ Stiff neck with an elevated temperature of 100.4 or higher consult with Doctor and bring a clearance note.
➢ Coughing which results in respiratory distress or is associated with a suspected inflammatory process
➢ Covid 19 Any child reporting positive test results or showing symptoms of COVID-19 cannot be in attendance at the childcare facility. Upon return, the individual must provide a written note or a negative test result signed and verified by a physician or nurse practitioner (CRNP) clearing them to return to the child care facility. A home test or any other negative test results that have not been reviewed signed and verified by a physician or CRNP will not be acceptable for a child to return to the childcare facility.

A child who becomes ill while at Caterpillar Childcare Center must be removed from the classroom in order to limit exposure of other children to communicable disease. An ill child will be sent to the office to wait for his/ her parent to arrive. For this reason, we ask families to make every effort to pick up a sick child within one hour once notification has taken place. At Caterpillar, we reserve the right to make the final determination of exclusion due to illness. Prior to re-admission, the child must be symptom free for at least 24 hours or Any exceptions to our illness policy will require a written note from a licensed health care professional note indicating the child does not have a communicable disease and is safe to return to the center.
Each child will be screened upon arrival at the center. Should a child have any of the above symptoms, the parent will need to take the child home, and / or the Director may suggest referral for follow-up care.

If your child is exposed to a communicable disease, a notice will be posted on the classroom billboard of your child’s classroom. Additionally, families who have provided an email address will receive email notification of the illness. If your child or anyone in your household becomes ill with a communicable disease, please notify the Director immediately.

Upon enrollment, the parent must complete all medical forms, including an Emergency Transportation Form and Release for Medical Treatment Form for use when the parent cannot be reached. The center will make all efforts to reach the family before the child is transported. If the family cannot be reached at this time, the Center Director or designee will accompany the child to the designated area for treatment. The center will continue trying to reach the parent or person listed to be called in an emergency.
In the event of a life-threatening medical situation, the childcare provider will initiate the center’s emergency code system by the classroom billboard or through another employee. Upon initiation of the code, all designated trained staff will proceed to the location and begin medical intervention until the emergency squad arrives. When the code is signaled, the emergency number will be called for medical help. Police and fire emergency numbers are posted inside the billboard.
All child-care providers are trained in first aid and CPR. First aid will be continued until the emergency squad arrives. The child will then be transported to the closest hospital for medical treatment.
All medical forms will be sent with the child to the hospital.

If a non-life-threatening situation occurs, the Director or Group Supervisor will be called to assess the injury/illness. First aid will be utilized as needed. The Director will make the parent aware of the child’s physical and emotional status; at this time, the parent should make the decision as to whether or not he/she chooses to have the child seen by the family’s physician.
The center does not provide for transportation services. The staff will notify the appropriate emergency personnel for transportation when a medical emergency occurs. It is the responsibility of the parent to provide for all other forms of transportation.
A First Aid Box is located inside the Caterpillar Room on the shelf below the infant room window and on the shelf inside the infant room below the window. The Center Director and/or Group Supervisor will administer first aid as needed. An Incident/Injury Report will be completed for all accidents and injuries. The report will be reviewed and signed by the parent, the original copy will be placed in the center’s file, and a copy of the report will be given to the parent.

It is important that parents complete and update, as needed, an Emergency Contact and Parental Consent Form that contains contact information for both the parents as well as the individuals authorized to pick up the child in the event of illness or emergency. In addition, the form allows Child Care Center staff members to seek emergency medical or dental care from an authorized care provider in the event of serious injury.
It is the responsibility of the parent to complete this form and to make corrections to this information when necessary.

• If a child becomes ill or injured after arriving at the center, the Lead Teacher will attempt to contact the parent(s) at all available telephone numbers. If a parent cannot be reached, the individuals listed as emergency contacts/authorized pick-up persons on the Emergency Contact & Parental Consent Form will be called.
• Children who are ill or seriously injured will be sent to the office and remain under the supervision of the Director and/or Lead Teacher until a parent arrives.
• Should a child require emergency dental care, the parent will be notified immediately. We will assist the parent in contacting his/her preferred dentist if requested to do so.
• All first aid measures will be taken until the parent arrives. If the situation in any way becomes life-threatening, emergency procedures will be taken.

If the child requires immediate medical attention:

• The Lead Teacher who witnessed the emergency will remain with the injured child and instruct someone else to call 911. If no one is available, first ensure the child is stable and, if possible, bring the child with you to call 911.
• The Lead Teacher will accompany the child to the hospital, bringing the child’s physical exam, immunization records, and Emergency Contact & Parental Consent Form.
• The Director will contact the parent(s).

All medication brought to the center will be administered by the Lead Teacher or Center Director on duty. As a childcare provider, Caterpillar Childcare Center reserves the right and is required by professional standards to refuse administration of any medication believed to be contraindicated and potentially harmful to the child.
No medications are to be taken into the classrooms. Medication must be given to the Center Director. Do not leave medication in your child’s diaper bag. Please do not mix or place medications in your infant’s bottles, as this is an unsafe practice and may lead to distaste for fluids used to dilute the medication.
The parent must complete a Request for Administration of Medication Form developed by the Pennsylvania DHS (Department of Human Services) before medication administration can take place.

If the medication requires special physician instructions, the middle part of this form must be completed.

• If the medication or vitamin is a prescription from a doctor, the physician’s instructions and signature will be required. The medication must have the child’s name and date of birth.
• A copy of the Request for Administration of Medication Form is included in your admission packet.
• Staff members trained to utilize the proper technique may apply topical creams/lotions.
• Parents must apply sunscreen in the morning. The staff can apply sunscreen only in the afternoon per a sunscreen waiver signed by the parent.

• The parent should administer once daily at home.
• The parent should administer twice daily every 12 hours at home.
• For three times per day or every eight hours, the Lead Teacher or Director will administer between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to noon or at 3:00 p.m.

*Please schedule your home dosages to allow us to remain on this schedule whenever possible

• Written instructions from a licensed physician or dentist must be filed at the center.
• The medication must be in the original container with the child’s name clearly visible.
• The label must specify the amount of dosage and time medication is to be administered; dosage should be by age and/or weight.
• The expiration date should be on the container.
• The length of time medication is to be administered should be clear.
• The medication will be cross-checked with the child’s allergy history.
• All over-the-counter medication for any child in our care must have a physician’s order.

Caterpillar Childcare Center has one fifteen-passenger van available for transportation to and from field trips. Staff members who operate the van must have a valid chauffeur’s license.
Individuals who volunteer to provide transportation for a Caterpillar Childcare Center event must be at least 21 and provide:

• Proof of a valid driver’s license and current insurance.
• Evidence of a safe driving record for at least 5 years, with no crashes where a citation was issued.
• No record of substance abuse or conviction for crimes of violence or child abuse.
• No alcohol or other drugs associated with impaired ability to drive within 12 hours prior to transporting children.
• No criminal record of crimes against or involving children, child neglect or abuse, or any crime of violence.

Between the months of March and October, all families will be required to supply sunscreen for their children for outdoor activities. A permission slip must be on file before sunscreen will be applied to a child. Sunscreen must be SPF 15 or above and will be applied by classroom teachers regularly throughout the day. Parents are encouraged to apply insect repellant to their child before arriving at the center for the day, as Caterpillar staff are not permitted to apply insect repellant.

Parents supply all diapers at Caterpillar. Wipes will be provided by the center unless the parent makes alternate arrangements.
Our teachers are experienced in training young children in how to use the bathroom. It is essential that the parent and teacher communicate about the needs of the child and work together to make this developmental milestone positive and successful.
We recommend that when in training, your child be dressed in “user-friendly” clothing. Overalls, zippers, and snaps are difficult for small children to manage, especially in a hurry. While toilet training, parents are to provide lots of thick training underwear, plastic pants, socks, and outer clothing.

Only commercially available disposable diapers or pull-ups may be used at Caterpillar Childcare Center unless the child has a documented medical reason that does not permit their use. Documentation from the child’s physician must be provided to the Director and/or Assistant Director before cloth diapers will be used while the child is at the center. Families must provide a container for storage of soiled cloth diapers while at the center to be sent home when the child is picked up.

Cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products are prohibited on Caterpillar premises, including parking lots and outdoor play areas. Smoking and the use of smokeless tobacco products are also prohibited in vehicles or in personal vehicles being used for the transportation of Caterpillar Childcare Center children, and while on field trips.

Any person in the center who is not an owner, staff member, substitute, or subcontracted staff or volunteer who has had a record check and approval to be involved with child care shall not have unrestricted 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 childcare. Person who does 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 Lead Teacher will assume the primary responsibility of the supervision and monitoring unless he/she delegates it to the Full Time Assistant Teacher due to a conflict of interest with the person. Center staff will approach anyone who is on the property of the center without their knowledge to ask what their purpose is. If a staff member is unsure about the reason, the Director or Assistant Director to get approval for the person to be on-site. If it becomes a dangerous situation, staff will follow the “Dangerous Adult” procedure. Non-agency persons, who are on the property for other reasons such as maintenance, repairs, etc., will be monitored by a paid staff member and will not be allowed to interact with children on the premises.
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 Pennsylvania sex offender registry:

• Shall not operate, manage, be employed by, or act as a contractor or volunteer at the childcare center.
• Shall not be on the property of the childcare center without written permission from the Director, except for the time reasonably necessary to transport the offender’s own minor child to and from the center. The Director is not obligated to provide permission and must consult with their DHS licensing agent first.

• ❖ If caregivers understand why children misbehave, they can be more successful at reducing behavior problems. Listed here are some of the possible reasons why children misbehave:
• ❖ Children want to test whether caregivers will enforce rules.
• ❖ They experience different sets of expectations between school and home.
• ❖ A child does not understand the rules, or are held to expectations that are beyond their developmental levels.
• ❖ They want to assert themselves and their independence.
• ❖ They feel ill, bored, hungry, or sleepy.
• ❖ They lack accurate information and prior experience.
• ❖ They have been previously “rewarded” for their misbehavior with adult attention.

Child misbehavior is impossible to prevent completely. Children, usually curious and endlessly creative, are likely to do things parents and other caregivers have not expected. However, there are many positive steps caregivers can take to help prevent misbehavior:

• ❖ Set clear, consistent rules. (e.g., walking feet; gentle touches)
• ❖ Make certain the environment is safe and worry-free.
• ❖ Show interest in the child’s activities. (e.g., participating in activities with the children so they stay interested for longer periods)
• ❖ Encourage self-control and independence by providing meaningful choices. (e.g., “You may pick up the blocks or art center.”)
• ❖ Focus on the desired behavior, rather than the one to be avoided. (e.g., “Ashley, please use gentle touches with your friends.”)
• ❖ Build children’s images of themselves as trustworthy, responsible, and cooperative.
• ❖ Give clear directions, one at a time.
• ❖ Say “Yes” whenever possible.
• ❖ Notice and pay attention to children when they do things right. (e.g., “Joey is playing so nicely. I like it when you keep the blocks on the table.”)
• ❖ Encourage children often and generously.
• ❖ Set a good example. (e.g., using a quiet voice when children should be quiet)
• ❖ Help children see how their actions affect others.

Below are strategies Caterpillar staff will use to respond to child misbehavior. Remember, however, that it is always a good idea if rules are explained fully and clearly understood before misbehavior occurs. Whenever possible, involve children in making the rules for the classroom.

This strategy should be used most frequently when working with young children. If a child is not following the rules or being uncooperative, quickly get the child’s attention and introduce another activity. For example, “Camila, please help me water the flowers now. You’ve been riding the bike for a long time and it’s now Logan’s turn.”

These structured consequences follow specific misbehaviors. The child should be able to see how the behavior and the consequence are directly related. For example, Andrew is standing on his chair at lunch. His teacher should remind him that if he stands on his chair, he could fall and get hurt; this will make him sad.

If a child damages something, he/she needs to help in fixing it or in cleaning up. If a child causes someone distress, he/she should help in relieving that. For example, “It made Brandon very sad when you told him he wasn’t your friend anymore. Please come apologize and help me make him feel better.”

Allowing children to experience the consequences of their behavior is also called learning the hard way. For example, Marcela does not put her books back in her school bag after she finishes reading. One day she loses a book, and therefore must find a way to replace it. Only use natural consequences when they will not endanger the child’s health or safety.

In some instances, a child may need to be removed from a particular situation in which he/she has become overwhelmed or violent. The child should be directed to “take a break” or sit in the “calm down chair.” This strategy gives the child a chance to calm down, regain control, and reflect quietly on her or his behavior away from others. Once the child has calmed down, staff should talk with the child about the actions that led up to and resulted in needing a break or being sent to the calm down chair. For example, “Hannah, we have talked often about how hitting is not acceptable. However, because you hit Marcus, please leave the blocks center and go to the calm down chair. I will talk to you when you are ready.”
If these actions do not help in reducing or changing behavior, the following will take place:

• ❖ Staff will report behavior and what strategies have been attempted to the Director and/or Assistant Director(s).
• ❖ The Director and/or Assistant Director will observe the child and meet with the Lead Teacher to develop a behavior management plan.
• ❖ The behavior management plan will be discussed will the parent and then put into practice.
• ❖ The Director and/or Assistant Director, Lead Teacher and Assistant Teachers, and parents will evaluate the behavior management plan. If needed, adjustments will be made.
• ❖ If a child’s behavior becomes threatening to themselves, other children, staff, or teachers, the child will be removed from the classroom and possibly the program for a period of time.

The following phrases are useful when problem-solving with children:

• Instead of “No” or “Don’t,” say “Please stop,” “I don’t like that,” “That’s not OK,” or “That is not a choice.”
• Instead of “That’s not nice,” say “That’s not OK,” “Please use gentle touches,” or “That hurts Jordan.”
• Instead of “No running,” say “I need you to use your walking feet” or “You may run when we go outside.”
• Instead of “Stop crying,” say “I need you to use your words to tell me what is wrong.”
• Instead of “Can you put away your toys?” (If it is not a choice, do not pose it as a question), say “You may help me pick up the blocks, or help Alyssa pick up the puzzles.”
• Instead of “I said yes” (when a child tells you “No”), say “No is not a choice; I need you to…”

Biting is a behavior that usually appears between the ages of one and three years. While biting is an age-appropriate behavior, it is important to remember it is also an unacceptable behavior in a childcare environment. Children bite for a variety of reasons: teething, sensory exploration, cause and effect, imitation, crowding, seeking attention, frustration, and stress. Biting is not something to blame on children, their parents, or their teachers. There are a variety of strategies we implement at Caterpillar to prevent and stop biting.
This Is The Process Followed When A Child Bites:

• ❖ The biting child is stopped and told, “Stop biting. Biting hurts,” in a firm voice. Teachers should remain calm, being careful not to show anger or frustration towards the child.
• ❖ The biting child is removed from the situation. Depending upon the observed motive for the bite, the separation may include re-direction or meeting the child’s needs. As little attention as possible will be placed on the biting.
• ❖ To avoid reinforcing the behavior, appropriate first aid will be provided to the child who was bitten. The bite will be washed with soap and water; a cold compress will be applied to reduce pain and swelling. A bandage will be applied if necessary.

It is important to explore the reasons for biting when it occurs. Teachers need to work with parents to gather information about the child’s behavior and begin observations to determine the reasons for biting. Examples of triggers would be: communication deficits, transitions, hunger, lack of sleep, need for oral stimulation, or teething pain. Once triggers are identified, staff can work on prevention strategies and start teaching replacement skills.
Below Are The Steps The Teacher Will Take To Identify Triggers And Replace The Behavior:

• ❖ The teacher will examine the context in which the biting is occurring and look for patterns.
• ❖ Was the space too crowded?
• ❖ Were there too few toys?
• ❖ Was there too little to do or too much waiting?
• ❖ Was the child who bit getting the attention and care he/she deserved at other times?
• ❖ The teacher will change the environment, routines, or activities if necessary.
• ❖ The teacher will work with the child who is biting to resolve conflicts and frustrations in ways that are more appropriate.
• ❖ The teacher will observe the child to get an idea of why and when they are likely to bite.
• ❖ The teacher will identify children likely to be bitten and make special efforts to reduce their chance of being bitten.
• ❖ The teacher, parent, and Director and/or Assistant Director will meet regularly to regulate an action plan and measure outcomes.
• ❖ If biting continues, the teacher will observe the group more closely and work with the parents to seek out additional resources as necessary to shadow the child who is biting.
• ❖ All information is confidential, and names of the children involved in the incident are not shared between parents. In addition, biting is always documented on an Incident/Accident Report, which is completed and signed by a teacher and parent. A copy is provided to the parent, and the original is kept in the child’s permanent enrollment file in the office.

Each family is strongly encouraged to schedule a time with the Director to complete a “New Family Orientation.” This orientation is a great time for parents to drop off routine care items (diapers, bottles, etc.) as well as an opportunity to participate in a portion of classroom activities with their child, familiarizing themselves with their child’s routines at Caterpillar. Important policies and procedures are also reviewed with the Director at this time, as well as the paperwork required for enrollment completed. Typically, “New Family Orientation” is scheduled one week prior to the start date. During the first few weeks, your child will be adjusting to a new place and many new faces. We are interested in making this adjustment as easy as possible for both children and families. Options for easing your child into the program should be discussed with the Center Site Director and teachers.

For children enrolled in the infant room, a daily “recap” sheet will be completed to tell you about your child’s day. This chart contains information about toileting, meals, naps, and activities. Parents of children in the toddler, two-year-old programs, and three- and four-year-old program rooms will get a daily report summary on the Procare App.

Your child will transition to a new classroom when he/she has reached the developmental milestones for a particular classroom. As the time for a transition to a new room approaches, you will receive a letter containing information about your child’s transition into his/her new classroom. Both your child’s current and future teacher is available to address any questions or concerns you have during the transition process. Before the transition into a new classroom has been completed, parents are encouraged to schedule a meeting with the new teacher in order to familiarize themselves with the new classroom, children, and curriculum.

Moving up to a new classroom is an exciting time filled with fun and opportunity. We know transitions can sometimes be a little scary for both children and parents. That’s why our teachers and school staff are dedicated to supporting families every step of the way. Every child is different; for some, moving to a new classroom is fun and exciting, but for others, it may be more stressful. Our goal is to make transitions as smooth as possible, for everyone involved.

To coincide with curriculum-based assessment(s), we monitor each child’s achievement using ASQ-3 within 45 days of enrollment. Observations will be shared with parents/guardians and provide resource information as needed for further screenings, evaluations, and early intervention and treatment. The developmental screening process is a collaborative one, involving parents/guardians and done in conjunction with the child’s primary care provider and health, education, and early intervention consultants. Developmental screening is conducted with written consent from the child’s parent/guardian(s).

Last Reviewed on: June 26, 2023
Last Updated on: June 26, 2023
Policy
In order to ensure that the needs of children with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) are met, the following procedures will be implemented.
Director Will:

• Ask all families to complete a request form for a copy of a child’s IEP/IFSP. This request will be placed in each child’s file.
• File all copies of IEP/IFSPs in child’s file in order to be readily available to share with the teaching team.
• Provide copies of IEP/IFSP goals to the child’s teacher(s) and discuss strategies for meeting the goals.
• Ensure all teachers are trained on how to implement an IEP/IFSP. Training will be documented in each teacher’s professional development record (PDR).
• Contact early intervention staff/consultants to schedule periodic meetings with the child’s family and teacher(s) to discuss the child’s progress and to increase strategies in adapting IEP/IFSP goals in classroom activities and routines.
• Request permission from families to attend any meetings with the early intervention team related to changes to the IEP/IFSP.
• Monitor teachers’ work towards supporting the child in meeting IEP/IFSP goals.
• Request additional help from the early intervention team if needed.
• Ensure teachers conduct family conferences to report on progress.

Teaching Team Will:

• Observe and document the child’s progress towards goals weekly and use their notes to individualize lesson plans.
• Complete a communication log between home and the teachers daily for each child with an IEP/IFSP.
• Prepare for and conduct family conferences at least three times a year to share progress on IEP/IFSP goals, the child’s development, and participation in the classroom.
• Meet with the family to plan for and discuss transitioning to new classrooms or programs. An individualized plan will be created as needed to ensure a successful transition for the child.

Regulations

• 4226.72: Procedures for IFSP development, review, and evaluation.
• 4226.73: Participants in IFSP meetings and periodic reviews.
• 4226.74: Content of the IFSP.
• 4226.75: Implementation of the IFSP.

Management Approval:
Karina De Paula
Center Director
Parent/Guardian: ________________________________________ Date: ___________________

Children with special health care needs are defined as “. . . those who have or are at increased risk for a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional condition and who also require health and related services of a type or amount beyond that required by children generally” (McPherson, 1998).
Any child under our program who meets these criteria should have an up-to-date Routine and Emergent Care Plan, completed by their primary health care provider with input from parents/guardians, included in their on-site health record and readily accessible to those caring for the child. Community resources should be used to ensure adequate information, training, and monitoring is available for early care and education staff. Caregivers should undergo training in pediatric first aid and CPR that includes responding to an emergency for any child with a special health care need.

Parent participation is strongly encouraged in our program. Some possible opportunities to participate and contribute to your child’s Caterpillar Childcare Center experience include:

• Field trip transportation and supervision
• Leading or assisting special projects (carpentry, cooking, etc.)
• Construction or collection of raw materials for art projects, dramatic play props, etc.
• Eating lunch or snack with your child – please inform the teachers one day in advance
• Volunteering in your child’s classroom

Parent-teacher conferences will typically be held each time your child transitions classrooms and two times per year for our preschool programs. The goal of the parent-teacher conference is to gain insight into your child’s development in both the center setting as well as the home setting. During conferences, your child’s development and any goals you may have for your child will be discussed. Parents are encouraged to request conferences whenever they feel it necessary.

Caterpillar asks parents to complete a program evaluation annually. The staff uses the information gathered from these anonymous surveys to develop goals for our center and to improve the overall quality of care at our center. A parent’s point of view is different from a teacher’s point of view. Therefore, parent feedback on the program evaluations is very important to the success of our program and the satisfaction of our families.

Photographs, videos, and publicity of the children in our programs may be taken from time to time and may appear in newspapers, magazines, brochures, publicity materials, and/or educational trainings. Your permission for photographs and videos of your child, to be used without compensation, is part of this agreement.

• Emergency Preparedness Plan
  ❖ Our child care center is dedicated to always keeping your child safe when she/he is in our care. With recent world and local events, we have developed an emergency plan that will be put into place if special circumstances require a different type of care. Plans for these special types of care are reviewed annually. Staff is trained in the appropriate response, and local emergency management is aware of these plans. The specific type of emergency will guide where and what special care will be provided.
  The Following Plan Will Be Implemented In The Event Of An Emergency!

The Following Plan Will Be Implemented In The Event Of An Emergency!

• Child And Employee Record
  All our child and employees record are saved both physically in our center office and electronically so in an event of an emergency if the physical copies are destroyed, we have a back-up system.
• Evacuation Plan
  This plan would be put into place in the event that it is not safe for the children to remain at the center. In this situation, staff has predetermined alternate sites for care. The choice of site is determined by the specific emergency and what would be an appropriate alternate site.
• Evacuation Procedures
  • Staff will remove the children for whom they are responsible from the building. Floor plans indicating the evacuation route is posted by the doorway in each room. Sign in/out sheets will be taken. Infants are placed in the cribs with the sturdy, large casters and wheeled out of the building.
  • They will go to the evacuation site: 312 George Street, Reading, PA 19605.
  • Center Site Director/Person in Charge checks all rooms, including bathrooms, for stragglers or sleeping children, taking sign in/out sheets that may be left behind and the office red Emergency Binder for phone numbers.
  • At the evacuation site, attendance of children and staff is taken.
  • Staff will be prepared to move the children to another site (cafeteria) for traffic, weather, and/or emotional reasons.
  • A final decision to evacuate the area and/or to re-enter the building will be the responsibility of the commander on the scene of the Belmont Fire Dept. and Security Services.
  • Parents will be contacted if circumstances warrant.
  • Evacuation drills are conducted every 60 days. Few hours are given on some drills, while others are unannounced.
• Fire Regulation Procedures
  ❖ Fire regulations procedures are posted near the exits in each classroom.
  ❖ Fire drills are conducted every two months; all classrooms are required to participate. In the event of a fire or other evacuation emergencies, the children and teachers will immediately leave the building and meet in the playground.
  ❖ In case of a fire, all children will immediately be transported to Vision 20/20 Church at 312 George St, Reading, PA 19605. Parents will be called as soon as safely possible following an emergency situation. For the safety of children, parents, and staff, we ask that parents do not attempt to pick up their child during an emergency situation.
  You Discover Fire Or Smoke:
  • 1. Push fire alarm.
  • 2. Dial 911 and give the location of the fire.
  • 3. Evacuate the building (see evacuation procedures).

  If You Hear The Fire Alarm:

  • 1. Evacuate the building (see evacuation procedures).
• Natural Disasters – Hurricane, Tornado, Flood, Blizzard, Earthquake, Power Failure
  • If a natural disaster is forecasted in advance, the center will close, open late, or close early based on the recommendations of the Governor, i.e., a State of Emergency.
  • If, during the day, the potential of a natural disaster was predicted with limited notice, the Center Site Director/person in charge would determine the best place to keep the children and staff safe.
  • If a natural disaster occurs unpredictably, the Center Site Director/person in charge would call for an evacuation (see above procedure); however, instead of bringing the children outside, the Center Site Director should consider the safest alternative, i.e., the middle room where the toddlers are.
    • a) If possible, the Fire Dept would be notified of the situation.
    • b) Proximity of kitchen and bathrooms would be considered.
    • c) Windows would be avoided.

    ❖ The Muhlenberg Township will be contacted regarding any water outage, Tel: 610-929-4709.
    ❖ Met-ed will be contacted in the event of a power outage Tel: 800-545-7741.
    ❖ UGI will be contacted for the loss of heat Tel: 800-276-2722.

• Shelter In Place
  This plan would be put into place in the event of a weather emergency, unsafe outdoor conditions, or threats. In this plan, children will be cared for indoors at the center, and the center may be secured or locked to restrict entry. Parents will be notified if they need to pick up their child before the regular time.

Property Partial Damage:

• 1. The Center Director in conjunction with the Muhlenberg Township Buildings and Codes Department inspector will evaluate the damage to determine if it will represent a risk for the children and staff.
• 2. If the center has to suspend the program until the damage is corrected, the ELRC Department, the Department of Human Services, and Parents will be notified.
• 3. Once the renovation has taken place, the city and state will provide their inspection clearance for the center to resume normal operations.
• 4. Meanwhile, the Center Director will work in conjunction with the ELRC Department to provide parents with temporary places for children to be safely cared for.
• 5. Staff will assist with decluttering, cleaning, preserving goods, and organizing curriculum.

Property Total Loss:

• 1.The Center Director will inform the Department of Human Services, the ELRC, the Parents, and staff.
• 2.Child enrollment will automatically terminate after parents are notified.
• 3.Staff will be forwarded to the Unemployment Compensation Department.
• 4.A contact list for parents and employees will be kept to inform them of updates regarding renovations.

In the event of an emergency, parents will be called or receive a text with specific information. Depending on the distance from the center, the children will walk if feasible or be transported to the alternate site.

When the emergency ends, parents will be informed and reunited with their children as soon as possible. The contact methods listed above will be used. The purpose of sharing this information is not to cause worry but to ensure preparedness for all emergencies to ensure children’s safety.

In the event of a missing child, the Lead Teacher will search for the child in the immediate area, while another staff member calls the Director and/or Assistant Director to help with the search. If the child cannot be located in a reasonable amount of time, the Director and/or Assistant Director will notify the Muhlenberg Township Police Department at 610-929-5454 and the child’s parents. In the event of an abducted child, the Lead Teacher must immediately contact the Director and/or Assistant Director, the Muhlenberg Township Police Department, and the Child’s Parents.
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