"Loving and Learning" -- to provide care with affection and warmth for infants; to provide a program that enhances the individual development of each child, with consistency between parental care and day care; to establish trust and reassurance with families.
We strive to provide the best beginning for the babies of the families that have chosen childcare. We are well aware that it is a very difficult decision to leave your child in the care of others and want to make this an easier choice. Any concerns you have before or after starting the program are welcomed for discussion. We hope you will communicate any information that will help us provide this quality care. We see ourselves as a family center…one that welcomes the whole family.
We make every effort to meet both parents' and children's individual needs regarding naps, schedules and toilet training. Because the needs of infants and toddlers are so great and because their development is so rapid during this very early childhood, it is vitally important for parents to inform us about any changes in routine or anything that might affect your child. Please communicate on a daily basis with the staff.
Please know in advance that your child will very likely pick up any illnesses that make the rounds in the center. While we are very careful with our cleaning and illness regimen, it is still unavoidable for children to contract something. Although this builds a healthy immune system, it can be inconvenient for you as well as uncomfortable for your child. Please review the illness policy mentioned in the parent handbook and follow it with your infant or toddler.
Rest Time (revised 3-6-10)
Children in our Infant program sleep in cribs that meet the standard for the Dept. of Consumer Protection. We put babies to sleep on their backs under 12 months of age, and use only a blanket in the crib, tucked from the infant’s chest to the base of the mattress. The baby’s head remains uncovered.
No other items can be used in the crib except for a pacifier. The staff supervises children resting and/or napping by sound and sight at all times. We will try to follow the routine you have established for your child.
Food (revised 3-6-2010)
You are required by State regulations to supply all food and drink for your infant, including morning snack(s), lunch and afternoon snack(s). All food needs to be packed in containers that are clearly labeled and have cold paks or a thermos. We are not able to heat food in the infant room in the microwave. If your infant is on formula, please send in canisters of powder, ready mixed formula, or bottles of formula ready to use, which will be heated in a bottle warmer. Portions not consumed after an hour will be discarded. Staff will give bottles by holding infants, and bottles will not be propped for feeding. We cannot give children under 6 months fruit juice or more than 4 oz. without a doctor’s order. State law also does not allow children to walk around with a bottle or a sippy cup. Infants must be held by a staff person. Please offer new foods to your infant several times at home to avoid any food related sensitivity.
We will send home a permission slip for every food related activity which must be returned in order for your child to participate.
We provide a daily information sheet to the I/T families. These logs tell you what and when your child ate, when they had their diaper changed or went to the bathroom, nap times etc. It is intended to keep you informed about your child’s day. Please make sure you take it with you each day.
Breast Feeding (revised 3-6-10)
If you would like to breast feed, please acclimate your infant to bottle feeding prior to enrollment. If you’d like to come and breast feed your child, we welcome you, just let us know what you need and we will always do our best. We are able to store breast milk that is brought in frozen as long as it’s labeled and dated, for up to 3 months. Any bottles of breast milk sent in must be labeled and dated and will be discarded after 48 hours. Any items not dated must be taken home at the end of the day.
Outdoor Time
The I/T children and staff go for daily walks or outdoor play as long as the temperature is around 35 degrees. Please send in appropriate outdoor gear for them each day.
Clothing
Provide at least two complete changes of clothing. For children involved in toilet training, please include several pairs of underpants. Try to avoid sandals or flip-flop shoes. Disposable diapers and an economy size pack of wipes are to be provided by you each month. Also, water play suits and towels in the summer, and outdoor gear in the winter including boots should be left DAILY.
Personal Items
Please send your child's favorite blanket, pacifier, stuffed animal or "huggable" for rest or for comfort.
