Policies

• Your child will be talked to and encouraged to respond. No “babytalk” will be used and “nicknames” kept to a minimum. Children are read to on a daily basis and will be encouraged to touch and feel to learn differences in textures.
• Balls of various colors and sizes are provided, Duplo blocks, alphabet blocks and building blocks, shape sorters and other age appropriate toys to stimulate. Toys that are mouthed are washed daily in the dishwasher each afternoon and or evening.
• Infant meals are provided on an “on demand” basis. Provider provides the Sam’s Club brand formula Members Mark Advanced; this is optional, and parents may bring formula of choice.
• We go outside daily (weather permitting) to our playground, we take occasional walks, play in water during the summer and snow play in winter (please provide appropriate outerwear).
• Practicing of fine motor skills, large motor skills, letter/number/color/shape recognition.
• Naps are given on an “on demand” basis until 9-12 months old. At which time your child will be eased into a more regular schedule of eating and resting. Individual playpens and bedding are provided and washed weekly.
• Parents/guardians need only provide infant cereal, formula, diapers and at least one change of clothing. If cloth diapers are provided they will be returned to the parent/guardian at the end of each day unrinsed/unwashed. Soiled clothing will be returned to parent/guardian unrinsed/unwashed. This is done to minimize the spreading of germs.

The children are explained the rules of the daycare frequently so that they know the guidelines. Once a child understands the rules and disobeys them, hurts others or property, the following developmentally appropriate guidance techniques will be used. These techniques are as follows:

• Positive Reinforcement: The child will be encouraged when he/she is demonstrating acceptable behavior.
• Redirection: The child is redirected to another activity and given an opportunity to try again at another time.
• Time out: The child is separated from the group for a child-regulated period of time. This technique is used only when a child is exhibiting temper tantrum type behavior or hurting self, others, or equipment. When the child shows that he/she is ready to demonstrate acceptable behavior, they are encouraged to join the rest of the group and try again.
• Last resort: When a child's behavior is continually upsetting or dangerous to others, or myself a conference will be called with the parents. If the problems can't be resolved, arrangements will have to be made for the child to go elsewhere for care

• Arrival & free play
• 8:30ish Breakfast
• Child led play/outside play
• 11:30ish Lunch
• Child led play/outside play
• 1:15 - 3:20 nap/quiet time
• Snack
• Child led play/outside play till pickup

Child‑led play means your child takes the lead in choosing what to play, how to play, and how long to explore an activity. Instead of directing or correcting, I follow their ideas, support their curiosity, and join in when invited. This approach helps children build confidence, independence, problem‑solving skills, and strong emotional connections. When children feel free to explore at their own pace, they learn more deeply and joyfully.