ENROLLMENT

 

Eligibility

 

Enrollment is open in the following categories:

• A Team Member family includes one parent employed by St. Joseph’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Home Health, Diagnostic Center or Same Day Surgery.
• An Affiliate family includes one parent employed by Healthpoint Management, South Florida Baptist Hospital, John Knox Village or other BayCare facilities.  Affiliates include physicians with privileges at these facilities.
• A Community family is a customer not employed by any of the agencies listed above.  Community spaces are available only for full time, 6:30 am – 6:00 pm, Monday – Friday attendance.

 

Children with special needs will be accepted as long as we can fully meet the child’s needs and the needs of the group with reasonable accommodations.  In all cases, they must be able to participate and substantially benefit from our program without risk to themselves or other children.  No child will be denied enrollment on the basis of race, color, religious belief, national origin, disability, gender, or any other legally protected category.  Nor shall any child be subjected to discrimination or excluded from participation in any program or activity.

 

Offers of enrollment are made by telephone and confirmed by submitting the enrollment fee and completion of enrollment forms.  If there is a waiting list for the age group in which you require care, enrollment will be offered to the team member parent with the earliest date of application (the date the Center receives the application).  However, priority will be given to children whose siblings already are enrolled at the Center. Full time children have priority over part time and drop-ins.

 

Registration Procedures

 

Upon acceptance of an enrollment offer, parents will complete a registration packet to provide the following information that will help us help your child adjust to out-of-home care:

 

Enrollment Application*

Copy of the child's physical examination * {HRS Form # 3040)

Copy of the child's immunization record * (HRS Form # 690)

2 Emergency contact cards*

Infant Sleep Policy (if applicable)

Developmental information form

Allergy alert form*

Parental Agreement form*

Parent Consent form

Payroll Deduction Authorization form

Enrollment fee

 

(*Required by the Hillsborough County Licensing' Program, which monitors and licenses child care centers.)

 

Each year during the month of September, you must re-register your child(ren) to review your child's records and update information as necessary. 

 

To ensure that our computerized records remain up-to-date, parents must advise the Center of any changes to the following information:

 

• Phone numbers where you can be reached during the day,
• Home and work addresses,
• Names of persons authorized to pick up your child in the event you are detained,
• Names of authorized persons to be contacted in the event your child becomes ill or injured,
• Changes to your child's schedule,
• Any information that would help your child’s teacher provides the best care possible for your child.

 

Orientation Tours

 

No one knows more about the children we care for than their parents do. Therefore, we schedule an orientation tour with each parent to obtain important information that will help us best care for your child. During the tour, you will spend time with your child's primary teacher, tour the facility, complete any necessary paperwork, and review Center procedures.

Please be candid regarding your expectations and provide as much information as possible about your child that will help us meet his or her needs. Your input is both welcome and vital.

 

        

 

  

Waiting List

When the Center reaches maximum capacity enrollment for each age group, we will implement a waiting list. Applications for enrollment will be placed in the order that they were received. Priority will be given according to the following criteria:

St. Joseph's Team Members will receive priority on the waiting list. Affiliates (other Bay Care Network facilities, etc.) will receive second priority. Community families will receive third priority.

Within each of these priority groups, priority enrollment will be granted on the following criteria:

1^st - Siblings of children already enrolled

2^nd- Full time care needed

3^rd - Part-time care needed

 

 

When a space becomes available, the Center will notify you, after which you will have 48 hours to complete enrollment. If you cannot complete enrollment within 48 hours, you may opt to pay the enrollment fee and the appropriate weekly tuition rate to guarantee the space.

If you decline an offer of enrollment, you will be moved to the end of the waiting list. If you decline a second time you will be removed from the list and another enrollment application with a new inquiry date will be required if you are still interested in enrolling your child at another date.

 

LEVELS OF CARE

 

The Center offers many levels of care to meet the diverse child care needs of parents.

 

• Full-time care (up to 50 hours of care weekly)
• part-time care
• back-up/drop-in care (up to 12 hours in one day)

 

Full Time

Full-time care is defined according to your work schedule.

4-5 days/8 hour shifts. Care cannot be extended beyond 50 hours a week.

or

3 days/12 hour shifts. Care cannot be extended beyond 50 hours a week.

 

Part-Time

Our part-time scheduling is as follows:

3 days per week at 8-hour shifts                     or                     2 days per week at 12-hour shifts

                                                             

 

Part time is offered only if there is availability in the center.  Part time is set days each week.  If you use days other than those scheduled, they will be considered “drop in” and you must call to determine if space is available and pay the daily drop in fee for that day.  At the time the center becomes full and full time spaces are needed, part time families will be given the option of converting to full time status or relinquishing the space.  There is no family discount for part time enrollees.

 

Drop In/Back Up Care

Based on space availability, "temporary" or "emergency care" is arranged for all parents. You should call ahead for reservations, but you also may inquire about same day availability. Children must be pre-registered, have a signed part time policy statement and have all health records up-to-date to participate in the Drop In/Back-Up Care program.  If you expect to use this service, please ensure you have completed this requirement in advance. This is only available to children ages one year and older. The enrollment fee per child/per year is required to enroll in this program.

 

 

TUITION, FEES & DISCOUNTS

 

Tuition

Check with the Center administration to obtain the most current full-time, part-time and drop in/back up tuition rates for the various levels of care.

 

Enrollment and Registration Fees

A $75 non-refundable enrollment fee is due upon enrollment. In addition, an annual non-refundable re-enrollment fee is due by October 1 every year.

 

Sibling Discount

Parents with more than one child enrolled in the Center will receive a sibling discount for each additional child after the first enrolled.

 

Payment Methods

Payment for full or part-time care will be made by payroll deduction, check or money order. Tuition is collected 52 weeks of the year. There are no reductions for vacations, absences, etc.

Payment is due weekly on Monday upon drop off by 10:00 am or the first day the service is provided, whichever applies. A daily late fee will be assessed for all payments received later than Tuesday. A fee is charged for returned checks. Checks or money order are to be made payable to St. Joseph's Child Care Center.

Payroll deduction is optional unless we receive 2 NSF checks. If that is the case, you will be required to use payroll deduction.

Payroll deduction covers tuition for the week you receive your St. Joseph's paycheck and the following week. Payroll deductions are implemented at the start of a payroll cycle only. Therefore, any charges incurred prior to the payroll period must be paid by check or money order.

 

Tax Statements

Each year we provide a statement of the amount you paid the previous year for childcare.  This is a free service to our clients whose accounts are current.  Any delinquent accounts will be gladly accommodated as soon as you account is current with us.  We are required by the Internal Revenue Service to provide you with our name and federal identification number.  These are posted in the front office lobby. 

 

ABSENCES & WITHDRAWALS

 

Vacation and Absence Policy

The center budgets for tuition on a year-round basis, therefore there is no reduction for holidays, absences, or vacations.  Center costs continue for these days, and you must keep your child’s tuition payments current in order to hold your child’s space for your return after an absence.  If you choose to withdraw your child due to an extended absence, we cannot hold your space.  Your child will be placed on the waiting list according to the date of notification of intent to withdraw.

 

Termination of Child Care

Please provide at least two weeks written notice (four weeks, if possible) of your intent to withdraw your child from the Center. If timely notification is not received, a fee equal to the rate

for two weeks of care will be assessed.   If you notify us of intent to withdraw, and another parent has paid the registration fee for that space, you cannot rescind your date of withdrawal.

 

The Center may require parents to withdraw their children when:

• Parents abuse the Policies & Procedures of the Center i.e., failure to pick up an ill child within one hour of time notified, negligence in updating medical records, or failure to pay all tuition and late fees, etc.
• The child's physician recommends withdrawal
• Parents are unwilling to cooperate with the Center staff in the best interest of the child as determined by the Director and the Administrative staff member
• After repeated attempts to correct inappropriate behavior, a child continues to disrupt the learning process of the group and/or poses risk of harm to self or others
• The child purposely and maliciously damages Center property
• The child is verbally abusive including repeated use of inappropriate and offensive language;
• Other circumstances deemed justified by the Center staff

 

If withdrawal is deemed necessary due to one of the reasons listed above, the Center Director will provide parents two weeks notice of termination of care whenever practically feasible, except in instances of involuntary dismissal of an employee.

When a St. Joseph's Hospital team member leaves employment with the hospital, they may be subject to withdrawal from the center.  Team Resources will make that decision. If they are allowed to continue enrollment in the center, they must immediately begin paying the Community rate.

 

OPERATING PROCEDURES

 

Hours of Operation

The Center is open Monday - Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. for team members and 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for affiliates and community parents 52 weeks per year, with the exception of established holidays.  :

 

Center Holidays

• New Year’s Day
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day, Friday after
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day

 

Holiday care is offered for Team Member parents who are required to work at St. Joseph’s on the holiday.  A minimum of 10 families is needed in order to open the center on a holiday.  Sign up sheets for holiday care will be posted, and must be completed one week in advance in order for the center to schedule staff to work the holiday.  You must be working at St. Joseph’s to use this service.

 

A drop in fee will be charged for all NO SHOWS on Holidays and children signed up for drop in care.  A 24-hour cancellation notice is required to avoid a charge.

 

Please make arrangements to pick up your child before closing time.  If you are going to be late due to unforeseen difficulties, please notify the Center as soon as possible.  A back-up system for pick-up is recommended and very useful during those times when you get detained.  Be sure to notify the Center in writing in advance of anyone authorized to pick up your child.

 

A late pick up fee will be charged for each 15-minute period beyond the stated closing time in order to ensure on-time closing.  We appreciate our teachers who work later shifts and intend for them to go home at their scheduled time.

 

Weekly Care Schedule

Each week it is important to sign up for the hours you need to use the center. All children, regardless of FT/PT status must sign up every Monday or Tuesday for the following week. The center uses this information to create a staffing pattern to meet our low child-teacher ratios and maintain accreditation quality standards.

 

Security

The Center is protected by a security access system. Upon enrollment, you will receive instructions on clocking in/out on the computer and all persons picking up and dropping off must initial in the enrollment book on the front counter.  All hospital team members will be provided with security access badges. Parents who do not work at St. Joseph's will need to ring the doorbell for access. Please review and inform anyone you authorize to pick up children about the following rules, which are designed to ensure the safety of all the children in the Center:

 

• All children must be signed in and out on the computer and in the sign-in book.  All parties that you have authorized to pick up your child will need to initial the book and clock the child in or out.
• All persons entering the Center may be asked to show photo identification.
• Always notify the Center in advance and in writing if an adult who is not on our pick-up list is to pick up your child. Include the adult's name and the date and time the adult will pick up your child.
• All persons (other than the parent/guardian) authorized to pick up your child will be asked to check the child out in the office before picking up the child. They will be required to show their driver's license if the management doesn’t know them.
• Whenever exiting or entering the building if you do NOT know the person behind you, DO NOT LET THEM ENTER. Close the door and let them ring the bell. This protects all children from potential harm.

 

 Keep your child's emergency information up-to-date and let the Center know if your daytime phone number has changed, even if it is a temporary change.

 

If an unauthorized person attempts to pick up your child, you will be called. If this person acts suspiciously or is hostile, Security will be called. No child will be released to an unauthorized person without written parental or guardian consent.

 

In the case of separated or divorced parents, the law stipulates we cannot determine which parent may pick up the child. We must release children to either parent regardless of which parent has enrolled the child unless the custodial, enrolling parent has a court order. Copies of court orders must remain in the child's file at the Center. Please inform the Center about any problems related to the custody of your child.

 

Children will not be released from the premises without an adult escort. Do not send an older sibling in to pick up your child in your place.

 

 

 

Safety and Emergency Procedures

We do everything possible to minimize accidents through various safety programs, facility inspections, routine maintenance and consistent policies and procedures. We will provide you with written documentation in the event your child is injured while in the Center's care.

 

Emergency drills for evacuation and severe weather are conducted monthly and plans are posted in each classroom of the Center. In the event of a sudden storm or emergency that prevents you from getting to the Center, we are prepared to care for the children for extended periods. In the unlikely event the Center is damaged and declared unsafe, evacuation plans are in place to enlist the appropriate professional authorities (fire, police, medical) and move the children to safety where they will await your immediate arrival.

 

 

 

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in the Center and on the grounds. For the safety of the children, please refrain from tossing cigarette or cigar butts on the grounds or in the parking lot.

 

 

Parking

Parking is available near the entrance for drop-off and pick-up. Please do not use the handicapped spaces unless you are authorized to do so. Parking along the red fire lane in the circular driveway is prohibited.

 

Licensing and Accreditation

St. Joseph's Child Care Center complies with city and state, health, fire and building regulations and adheres to State of Florida and national accreditation standards for room and playground space, staff to children ratios, and program equipment and learning materials. Licensed by the Hillsborough County Child Care Licensing Program, the Center meets accreditation standards for early childhood programs as identified by the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

 

 

 

 

STAFF

 

Teacher/Child Ratio

 

Group                         Age                 Teacher/Child            Group Size     Total spaces in                                                                               Ratio                                           each age group

 

Infant                          6 wks-l yr                    1:4                               8                      16

Young Toddler           1-2 yrs                          l:4                               10                    20

Older Toddler                         2-3 yrs                         1:7                               14                    14

Young PreK                3-4 yrs                         1:10                             20                    20

Older PreK                  4-5 yrs                         1:10                             20                    20

 

 

Director's Role

The Director is responsible for the overall administration of the Center.

 

Assistant Director's Role

The Assistant Director is responsible for the overall administration of the Center in the Director's absence.

 

Teacher's Role

 To teach effectively, teachers must consider the dynamics and needs of the group as well as individual characteristics and needs of each child. Teachers use their understanding of child development to create the learning environment, plan activities, establish schedules and work with children individually and in small groups. Our philosophy encourages teachers to respect and value the differences among children with regard to their cultural and ethnic backgrounds, abilities, temperaments and gender. In order to assess each child's interests and abilities, we provide a variety of activities, thereby allowing children to make choices.  This is an important step toward promoting positive behavior.

 

CURRICULUM

 

Overview

As defined by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, "Curriculum is an organized framework that delineates the content that children are to learn, the processes through

which children achieve identified curricular goals, what teachers do to help children achieve these goals and the context in which teaching and learning occur." We take this definition one step further in that we believe everything we do in the classroom and on the playground is learning and thus part of our curriculum. Every contact we have with a child is an opportunity for learning.  Though we have lesson plans and daily activities, curriculum cannot be just what is planned or taken from a book.  We believe children learn from meaningful experiences that occur often and are relevant to their lives. NAEYC calls this a "developmentally appropriate curriculum."

 

Classroom Assignment

The Director will assign each child to a classroom and a group. The assignments are based on a number of factors such as teacher's schedules, current assignments, which teacher's skills would best meet your child's needs, etc. Each teacher is responsible for a particular group of children within a classroom. The teacher will work closely with you and with your child. The teacher observes and records information about the children in their primary group.

 

Recommended Dress

Busy, creative, learning and play can be messy regardless of the age of the child.  We use washable paints and smocks to cover clothing, but we cannot guarantee spills and stains will be avoided.  Please dress your child in clothing that is washable, durable and labeled with permanent marker.  If you notify us when you have a special appointment after the childcare day, the teacher will be happy to change your child prior to pick up.

 

Closed toed shoes must be worn in school.  For your child’s safety, we recommend sturdy shoes, such as tennis shoes.  Thongs, sandals, jellies or smooth soled shoes are not permitted.  Water shoes may be brought for “water play days.”  Teachers will assist children in changing into these for the water experience.

 

Drawstring, Jewelry, and other articles hung around the neck.

Children are not permitted to wear any shirts, jackets, sweatshirts, jewelry or article that is tied around the neck.  It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure compliance with this safety policy by sending children to the Center with appropriate clothing.  Hooded drawstring clothing presents a major safety hazard for children.  The cord can become caught while a child is climbing, sliding or engaged in other active play and result in choking or other serious injury.  The same risk is associated with necklaces, lockets, keys or other articles hung around the neck.

 

Discipline

Each staff member recognizes that children are at different stages of their development and in learning self-discipline.  Teachers use discipline in a consistent manner, based on the understanding of the individual needs and development of the child.  Positive techniques of guidance that include anticipation and elimination of potential problems, redirection, modeling, natural and logical consequences, and encouragement of appropriate behavior will be used throughout the day to minimize behavior problems in the classroom.  Clear limits are set and followed consistently in the classroom with the needs and developmental capabilities of the children in mind.

 

Teachers provide opportunities for the development of social skills that include helping, negotiating, cooperating, talking about feelings and solving interpersonal problems. Children are encouraged to evaluate a problem and come up with possible solutions with the help of the teachers, if needed.

 

Corporal punishment is unacceptable as a means of discipline by any staff member. Children will not be punished by spanking or other corporal punishment or be subjected to cruel or severe punishment, humiliation or verbal abuse. Children will not be deprived of meals or snacks as a form of punishment. Children will not be punished for soiling, wetting or not using the toilet.

We believe it is our responsibility to provide children with positive guidance and in our experience, most children will respond well to our approach. In the event a child does not respond, we will notify the parents and work closely with them to develop a plan to help the child gain self-control and a positive attitude toward his peers and teachers.

 

Rest time

Rest time or naptime is a very important part of your child's day. It provides needed rest and relaxation, a time for reflection on the day's activities and recharging batteries for more fun later in the day. Each child is furnished a place and designated time to rest each day. Please let your child's caregiver know about any factors that may affect your child's rest schedule, such as a late bedtime or early awakening. Children need routines in order to function effectively in a group setting. Please help us by sticking to a regular bedtime and wake up time as much as possible. Please refrain from bringing children to the center during rest time, except for unusual circumstances such as a doctor appointment, etc.  Please do not ask us to keep your child awake during rest time. Licensing requires that all preschool children have a rest time, and be allowed to nap if needed.

 

• Infants: Staff members communicate regularly with parents of infants to determine current nap schedule. Daily reports include number and length of naps during the day. Cribs and sheets are provided.
• Toddlers: Typically, this age group is ready to begin a schedule of one nap per day. Our scheduled rest time is after lunch, but some children may require additional naps. Toddlers begin to use cots instead of cribs.
• Preschool: Once children have rested for at least one hour and it is determined that they are not sleepy, preschool children are offered a choice of quiet activities.

 

Children may bring a soft toy or security, item that, he/she finds comforting at rest time. You may also wish to bring a naptime blanket.  These items must be small enough to be stored in your child’s cubby in a bag. Parents are expected to take blankets, sheets, and pillows

home to wash each Friday.

 

 

Outdoors play

Children need fresh air and exercise, so we provide outdoor time for children every day, weather permitting. Please ensure that you check weather conditions and send appropriate outdoor wear (i.e. long sleeve tops, long pants, jackets, etc.). A medical permission form must be completed before we can apply sunscreen to your child.

 

It is our policy that if a child is too sick to go outdoors, the child is too sick to be at the Center. We cannot honor requests to keep a child inside while his or her class is outdoors. However, teachers will monitor conditions and limit the time children are outside to ensure they are comfortable.

 

 

 

Birthday Celebrations

Please check with your child's teacher to discuss plans for celebrating your child’s birthday at the Center. Celebrations are typically held in the afternoon after rest time. At no time can

latex balloons are brought to the Center because of the danger they present to children when broken. Mylar balloons are acceptable.

 

NUTRITION

 

Meals and Snacks

The Center offers breakfast, lunch and two snacks per day for non-infant children as part of the weekly tuition. These meals meet the minimum daily nutritional requirements.  Menus are planned in consideration of the Accreditation Standards and the American Heart Association and are posted in the office lobby. Children show individual preferences for certain foods and even go on food jags. However, research shows that children will meet their physiological needs if offered a wide variety of appealing foods over time. Please do not be concerned if your child doesn’t eat at a certain time.  Parents may send a sack lunch as an option for any meal, but there is not reduction in tuition.  Please limit your sack lunch foods to non-refrigerated choices, since we have limited space in our refrigerator. Food provided by parents must meet NAEYC and childcare licensing standards. Please see the list of acceptable/unacceptable foods below.

 

Breakfast is served up to 7:30 AM, morning snack is served at 9:00, lunch between 11:00-1l: 30, and mid-afternoon snack between 2:30 and 3:00. This food is provided as part of your tuition. If you arrive after 7:30, please serve your child breakfast at home.

 

Dinner is provided to all children who remain at the center after 6PM.  The charge for affiliate and community parents after 6:00 p.m. is $20.

 

Infant Feeding

We feed infants on their own individual schedule. For children six weeks to 12 months, parents must provide food and formula. We accept only unopened baby food jars labeled with the child's name. All bottles must be labeled and have lids. Cereal is not permitted in bottles, by licensing regulations.

 

Nursing mothers should coordinate the baby's nursing schedule with the caregiver in order to facilitate the baby's and mother's needs. Nursing mothers also may provide supplemental bottles. A private nursing facility is between our two infant rooms.

 

Special Dietary Requirements

If your child requires a special diet for medical, religious or cultural reasons, please inform the Center. When possible we will make arrangements for substitute items to be served. You may be required to provide meals and snacks, depending on the circumstances.

 

You are welcome to take your child away from the Center for lunch. Notify the teacher in advance if you wish to eat a meal with the class.

 

Nutrition Guidelines

NAEYC standards require that our curriculum include teaching children healthy eating habits. Studies show that after eating sugar a child's immune system drops immediately, making them more susceptible to airborne germs. In order to keep children healthy we enforce the following nutritional guidelines for bringing breakfast snacks or lunch. Foods must be easy to swallow.

 

 

 

Acceptable Foods                                                                  Unacceptable Foods

Fresh/Dried Fruit                                                                    Soda

Cooked/Raw Vegetables                                                        Raw carrots (for toddlers)

{sliced, cut lengthwise)                                                          Chips, cheese doodles, Doritos, etc Cheese slices or sticks                                                   Candy (gummy bears, hard candy,)

Pretzels (broken for toddlers)                                                             Sugary cereal 

Granola bars                                                                            Doughnuts

Variety of sliced breads                                                          Raisins (for toddlers)

Muffins                                                                                   Nuts (for toddlers)

Bagels                                                                                                 Whole grapes

Wholesome cereal (non-sugar)

 

 

 HEALTH AND WELLNESS

 

Medication

Often medicine can be prescribed for morning and evening doses versus several times per day, thereby avoiding the need to administer medication at the Center.  We prefer that you discuss this with your physician and make arrangements accordingly if possible.

 

However, if necessary, management can administer medicine under the following guidelines:

 

• Medicine will be given as your physician prescribes and will be administered by management.  If possible, we prefer to give medication one time a day.  Please ask your physician to prescribe accordingly.  Management is not always available several times per day and consequently it is easy to skip a dose.  This policy will assure the consistency of administering medicine to all the children who need it.
• We cannot administer any type of medication without a physician’s current prescription (or written approval by health personnel for non-prescription drugs) and a signed Medication Authorization form to be completed by the parent.  Forms are available in the office lobby.
• Medication must be provided in the original container and labeled with the child’s name, date, directions, and physician’s name.  The Center will not administer medication after the expiration date nor will we administer medication to a child that was prescribed for another child.
• All non-prescription medication must be labeled with the child’s name and the date the medication was brought to the Center.  We must have written directions from a health professional.  Non-prescription medication must be brought in the original container.
• Parents must specify date, time and amount to be administered.  If the appropriate amount to be administered is not spelled out on the original container, we will need your physician to give us the correct amount on a prescription form.
• Parents must remove all medicines when they are no longer needed or they will be discarded.
• Never leave medication in your child’s diaper bag or backpack.  All medication needs to be left with Center management to be placed in the locked box in the foyer.  If medication is not to stay at the center, it is the parent’s responsibility to remember to take medications home with the child at pick up time.

 

 

 

 

ILLNESS AND INJURY

 

If your child becomes ill or injured during the day, you (or a person you authorize) will be notified and must pick the child up within one hour.  Your prompt response is important to your child’s health and well-being and that of all the children enrolled in the Center.  In extreme emergencies, immediate treatment will be administered as determined by emergency medical personnel, and you may be responsible for partial or full payment of medical fees incurred.  Please be sure all emergency numbers are up to date at all times.

 

Health Care Policies *

We understand that it is difficult for a parent to leave or miss work.  Therefore, it is suggested that alternative arrangements be made for occasions when children must remain at home or be picked up due to illness.  If your child has any of the following conditions or symptoms, we will contact you to pick up your child from the center (within ONE HOUR) in order to prevent contagion of other children and staff, and to provide comfort to your child.

Exclusion Criteria

We cannot accept a child in care who exhibits any of the following symptoms:

• Fever … Temperature of 101. Teething in not an exception, as teething fevers are low grade (below 101).  Parents may not administer any fever suppressant that would mask a symptom of contagion.  Fever is a sign of infection and a doctor must see the child.
• Vomiting … more than 2 episodes in a 2-hour period.
• Diarrhea … more than 2 episodes in a 2 hours period OR uncontrolled diarrhea (stool runs out of diaper or underwear, or child is unable to get to the toilet on time repeatedly).  Diarrhea does NOT have to be accompanied by a fever.  Diarrhea is defined as ‘loose watery stools’ not just soft stools.  If diarrhea is a result of medication, teething or allergies, a doctor (other than the parent, if the parent is a healthcare professional) must specify clearly that the child is not contagious.  This can be done by phone or FAX and must be received by management BEFORE the child can return to school.
• Any skin rash, lesion, or wound with bleeding or oozing of clear fluid or pus.
• Conjunctivitis, also called “pink eye,” with white or yellow discharge.
• Mouth sores with drooling.
• Any condition preventing the child from participating comfortably in usual program activities.
• Difficult or rapid breathing or sever wheezing.
• A stiff neck.
• Any illness or condition requiring one-on-one care (including watching a sleeping child).
• Scabies, head lice or other infestations.
• Constant, uncontrolled nasal discharge or constant uncontrolled productive cough (raising phlegm)
• Unusually dark urine and/or gray white stool and yellowish skin or eyes.
• Any contagious illness that is reportable to the Department of Public Health.
• Any other unusual sign or symptom of illness.

 

After a child was excluded for any of the above reasons, in order to return to the program the following conditions must be met:

 

• A child must be symptom free from fever (without fever suppressant), vomiting and diarrhea for a full 24-hour period returning with a doctor’s note of non-contagion if applicable.
• Any child prescribed an antibiotic for a current bacterial infection must take the prescription for a full 24 hours before returning.
• A child must be able to participate comfortably in all usual program activities, including outdoor time.
• The child must be free of open, oozing skin conditions unless (1} a doctor signs a note stating that the condition is not contagious; and {2} the involved area can be covered by a bandage without seepage or drainage through the bandage.
• A child excluded because of lice, scabies, or other infestation may return 24 hours after treatment is begun with a note from a doctor (other than the parent, if the parent is a health care professional) stating that the child is larvae/nit free.
• If a child was excluded because of a reportable contagious illness, a doctor's note, stating that the child is no longer contagious is required prior to re-admission.

 

 For the health and well being of the other children who are enrolled at the center, it is every parent/guardian's responsibility to notify the center that their child has been diagnosed with a contagious disease, such as lice, scabies, roseola, chickenpox, conjunctivitis, etc. Confidentiality of the name of the reporting family will be maintained. Once the center is given notice we will within 24 hours notify all the families in the center that a case of a contagious disease has been reported.

 

Returning to the Center After Illness

Anytime a health care provider for problems or illness evaluates your child, please bring a copy of the diagnosis with recommendations concerning care to the Center to be included in your child's folder. In some cases, a physician's release will be required for your child to return to the Center.

 

The final decision whether to exclude a child from the program is made by childcare center management.

 

*(These Health Care Policies were written with the guidance of the Infection Control Department of St. Joseph's Hospital.)

 

SEVERE WEATHER/HURRICANE

 

 In case of a severe weather warning and Hillsborough County Schools close, childcare will not be provided to community and affiliate families.  Childcare will be provided only to those parents who are working directly at St. Joseph’s Hospitals. (This includes St. Joseph’s, Women’s and Children’s Hospitals.)

 

The Center will require parents to sign a separate sheet providing a phone number in the hospital where they can be reached directly for the day.

 

If during the day the tropical storm is upgraded into a category one hurricane, the staff will evacuate the children from the childcare building to the medical arts auditorium.  Should this occur, assistance from parents would be greatly appreciated.

 

A sign will be posted on the front door if the location of the children is changed.

 

Hospital team member families whose children attend the Center during this weather emergency must bring the following items (labeled) to enable childcare staff to provide the children with as comfortable care as possible:

1.      A weatherproof coat or plastic covering for children to wear if we need to evacuate the building

2.      Infants (and children whose weight allows them to use) should bring a crib in a bag with sheet and blanket inside.

3.      All other children should bring some type of mat with sheet and blanket for rest time enclosed in a plastic bag.

4.      Infants must have extra formula prepared in bottles, jar food and cereal.

5.      Extra diapers (ointment if they have any indication of the beginnings of a rash).

6.      All children should bring extra clothing; zip lock bags for soiled clothes, medications and other personal items that may be needed should hospital employee’s schedules become extended.

 

 

YOUR CHILD'S FIRST DAY

 

What to Bring

There are a number of things you should bring with your child to the Center. Be sure to label everything with a permanent marker. These should included

 

·         A complete change of clothes labeled with the child's name (this is needed for all ages).

·         Disposable diapers, pull-ups and training pants as needed. We provide ample storage so you can provide a week's worth of diapers at a time. We change children often, so plan on 6 to 10 diapers for an infant and at least six diapers for toddlers and 2-year-olds.

·         Bottles and formula as needed. Formula must be pre-made in permanently labeled bottles. Each bottle must be capped and non-breakable.

·         Small pillow, soft toy, or security blanket if needed for napping.

 

 

What Not to Bring

Please leave toys, food, gum, candy, pets, toy weapons, jewelry and money at home. All children share the learning materials at the Center as part of the learning experience. When children are not concerned about their toys becoming lost or broken, they are able to participate more fully in our educational environment.

 

 

 

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

 

Communication

The supervision of your child's growth is our joint responsibility. We want to know and understand your child, so feel free to discuss with us any problems your child may be experiencing. Communication between the Center Staff and parents is vitally important. Here's what you can expect from us:

 

• A parent's bulletin board is available in each classroom.
• Parents may briefly discuss their child's day with the primary teacher during arrival and departure times but are encouraged to call during rest time for lengthier discussions.  We request that you respect the children and teachers’ interaction time by not calling except at lunch except in emergency situations.
• Parents can expect written communication on a regular basis (flyers, newsletters, etc.).
• Teachers will share daily notes of classroom activities.
• All teachers prepare lesson plans, which are posted in your child's room for your review.
• Talk with your child each day about his or her experiences.
• Conferences are held two times per year and other times as needed to discuss your child's progress, accomplishments and difficulties at home and at the Center. Parents can take comfort in knowing that we will bring to your attention any needs or concerns we may observe in your child. Suggestions for additional screenings, consultations, medical intervention, etc., may be offered for your consideration.

 

Likewise, we need to hear from you. Be assured that no matter what your concerns, our staff considers your feedback extremely important and it never will reflect negatively on the type of care -your child receives.

Please remember the following:

 

• Specific instructions concerning feeding, health, medicine, etc., must be in writing and signed by you.
• When you have questions or concerns, please address them first with your child's teacher. If the teacher's response is unsatisfactory, please contact a member of management. Both are familiar with the activities of your child's area and with the policies and procedures of the company. It usually is best to address your concerns with the Center first because the staff is in the best position to respond immediately. However, the Director can provide you with phone numbers to reach TodayCare management if you feel your needs have not been adequately met.
• Parent surveys are distributed at least once per year in order for us to gather feedback as we begin to develop objectives for the coming year. If you have any questions or suggestions, please notify your child's teacher or a member of management. Open lines of communication will enable us to provide you with the service you expect and value.

 

Parent Meetings and Visits

Parents are welcome and encouraged to visit the Center at any time.

 

Parent Support Team

The Parent Support Team works closely with Center management and teachers to provide feedback on services that meet family needs. It serves as a sounding board for new ideas and services. Each year parent representatives from each classroom serve on this team. If you have concerns, etc. to bring to the Team ask your classroom representative to share these at the next meeting. Volunteers, as needed, form special event committees. If you wish to serve on the Parent Support Team or a special event committee, please notify a member of Center management. The highlights from each monthly meeting are posted on the Parent Board located in the center hallway.

 

 

 

Parent Volunteers

Your participation in the classroom is a special treat for the children and teachers. You are invited to "help out" whenever your schedule permits. You may wish to bring a special activity for the children or simply participate in the activities underway. Please coordinate these activities with your child's teacher.

 

Parent Resources

Videos and resource books are also available in the Center Parent Library located in the staff room. Parents may feel free to suggest topics they would like to see added to our library. 

 

AMENDMENT OF RULES AND REGULATIONS

 

The foregoing policies and procedures are not intended to be all-inclusive. We reserve the right to modify, revise, interpret, apply, suspend or discontinue the foregoing policies and procedures and/or the program itself, in whole or in part, in our sole and exclusive discretion. Any verbal or written representation contrary to the content of this guidebook are invalid and should not be relied upon by any user of the St. Joseph's Child Care Center.

 

 

 

(Revised 05/10/06)
SUMMARY

 

Prior to enrollment the Center will need:

►        $75.00 registration fee

►        Current Immunization Record (HRS form 690 available from physician)

►        Current Physician's Evaluation {HRS form 3040 available from physician)

►        Completed Enrollment Application

►        Completed Emergency Information card

►        Custody papers, restraining orders, etc., if applicable

►        Allergy information, if applicable

►        Dietary restrictions, if applicable

►        Developmental history

 

The operating hours of the St. Joseph's Child Care Center are from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. for team members, and 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for affiliates and community parents, Monday through Friday, 52 weeks per year, accept established holidays.  Late pick up fees for affiliates and community will be charged $20 past 6:00 p.m. Team members will be charged at the rate of $1 per minute after 8:00 p.m.

 

An annual $75 enrollment fee per child is required each year after enrollment and is due October 1. Parents are responsible for updating immunization and physical forms before they expire as mandated by state regulations.

 

Parents or authorized adults must check their child in every day via a computer and attendance log located in the reception area of the Center and then escort the child to his or her classroom. Written permission for someone other than a parent or legal guardian to pickup a child is required in advance. At no time will a child be released to an unauthorized individual. Telephone

permission is not acceptable. 

 

Tuition payments occur via payroll deduction, which will be authorized by a signed Payroll Deduction Authorization Form, available from the Center. Parents may not alter the condition of the payroll deduction unless the Center Director has executed a new form. Payroll deductions will be implemented, at the start of a payroll cycle only; therefore any charges incurred prior to the payroll period must be paid by check or money order.

 

Late fees for payments due will be assessed at a rate of $5 per day. Cost for returned checks is $25.

 

Parents may voluntarily remove their child from the Center with at least two weeks notice required. If notification is not received, a fee equal to the rate for two-weeks of care will be assessed. There is no discount for absences, vacations, or holidays.

 

Parents must pick up their child within one hour upon notification that the child is sick or injured.