*Texas Rising Star Provider Certification/Accreditation*

Family Owned and Operated4003 Hunter Road

San Marcos, Texas 78666512-353-4177

Tina Owens: Director/OwnerWebsite: firststepschooltx.com

Email: firststepschool@hotmail.com

Reviewed & Revised 9-25-2020

FIRST STEP, INC. CHILD CARE CENTER

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First Step School ParentFirst Step School Parent HandbookHandbook

www.firststepschooltx.com

First Step is a licensed facility that is regulated by the State, DFPS. If you have questions, you can write to them at PO Box 149030 Austin, Texas 78714-9030 or call them at 512-908-9610.There is also a website you may visit at www.dfps.state.tx.us. The center’s most recent licensing inspection/report is posted at the center and available for viewing on the parent board at the front entrance.

Child abuse hotline number is 1-800-252-5400.Child Abuse & Neglect

- Teachers must have 1-hour of training in child abuse and neglect every year- The method for increasing employees and parents’ awareness is listing warning signs in the school, sending home

related articles, trainings and reading materials to parents and teachers- The method for increasing employees and parents’ awareness of prevention techniques is sending home materials,

trainings, postings in the school, and articles or visiting the following website: www.preventchildabuse.org- The strategy we will use to coordinate between our operation and the appropriate community organizations is to have

a list of places and phone numbers that they can contact if contact is necessary.- We will also list on this posting the actions that the parents and teachers who are victims of child abuse or neglect

should take to obtain assistance and intervention.

**Please note Tuberculin testing is not currently required in Hays County.

** Any area within 1000 feet of a child-care center is a gang-free zone, where criminal offenses related to organized criminal activity are subject to harsher penalty. For more information, please see posting on bulletin board at entrance of building.

**We are enrolled in the Hays County Sheriff’s Office data base to be alerted when a registered sex offender moves into the area. By state law all offenders who have cases involving a minor, they may not move within 1,000 feet of a facility where children attend on a regular basis. If a registered sex offender moves outside of that 1,000 feet we will be notified of their location.

PURPOSE:

* To create an environment rich atmosphere with learning experiences planned to meet the needs of young children. * To supplement the home through providing an environment in which children can develop intellectually, physically, socially and emotionally under the guidance of qualified teachers. *To develop relationships with children and their families.

PHILOSOPHY:

Our vision at First Step School is “every child can learn regardless of their abilities.” The overall goal is to enhance children’s development across all domains; social/emotional, physical, cognitive and language which is all academically based. Children’s learning experiences are planned to occur through play activities and planned educational activities. Children and teachers select activities for participation from a variety of available planned experiences, some of which are child initiated and some of which are teacher initiated. The curriculum used is Frog Street Press which is individualized skills that will prepare children upon entry to

Kindergarten and throughout a lifetime. The infant program is specialized in brain/cognitive development, physical development, and emotional well-being on an individual level.

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The Center staff possesses a high level of expertise and training. The teachers observe and plan for developmentally appropriate experiences for the child within a group setting. First Step, Inc. follows Texas Department of Human Services teacher to child ratios.

MISSION:

First Step School specializes in children ages 2 weeks to 6 years of age. We also take children 7-12 during the summer, and days the public schools are closed. Our mission is to educate all students regardless of their abilities in a safe and nurturing environment. We respect the natural capabilities of every child. We share our passion, empathy, and enthusiasm in a reflective and collaborative way. This allows families to develop relationships, to discover new ideas, to construct knowledge through play and provide a joy for learning. Play is a child’s work and response to life and the way they discover themselves and the world around them. Play is important for children to learn, and teacher directed activities help to prepare the children for kindergarten. This all starts at infancy and is carried throughout until the child starts public school.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES:

Texas Rising Star Provider Certification/Accreditation: First Step School is a 4 star (highest level).

Every organization must have rules and procedures to ensure its smooth operation. State regulations must also be followed as the Center is state licensed and follows the Minimum Standards of Child Care Centers provided by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. However, First Step School is a 4-star accreditation (highest level) with Texas Rising Star which means we go above and beyond the minimum standards. This in turn, allows for a more quality based center.

Texas Rising Star provider certification improves the quality of childcare services in Texas, not only to families whose childcare is subsidized by TWC, but to all children enrolled in certified facilities. Texas Rising Star certification is available for licensed centers, licensed childcare homes, and registered childcare home providers who meet the certification criteria. Throughout the year, the center is monitored by Texas Rising Star and undergoes inspections beyond the Minimum Standard requirements. The Texas Rising Star certification system offers three certification levels in center-based care (2-star, 3-star, and 4-star). 4 stars is the highest level one can achieve.

Becoming a Texas Rising Star Certification Provider

Texas Rising Star childcare providers:

Have an agreement with a Workforce Development Board’s childcare contractor to serve children whose childcare costs are subsidized by the Texas Workforce Commission

Voluntarily meet requirements that exceed the state’s minimum licensing standards for childcare facilities Require teachers to obtain more continued education. Recommends and rewards teachers who obtain a Childcare Associates Degree (CDA) and/or a college degree.

Texas Rising Star Provider Certification Guidelines

The Texas Rising Star Provider Certification Guidelines are used by the Workforce Development Board and childcare contractor staff to assess and provide technical assistance to providers pursuing Texas Rising Star provider certification. The certification guidelines contain criteria for licensing compliance, director qualifications, caregiver/staff qualifications, staff orientation, staff training, group size, curriculum/activities, caregiver/child interaction, indoor/outdoor environments, health/safety, nutrition/mealtime and parental involvement at a higher level than that of Texas Minimum Standards.

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POLICY STATEMENT: (diversity, disabilities, etc.)

The school aims to provide a childcare environment which is free from bias and prejudice in which children learn the principles of fairness and respect for the uniqueness of each person. Differences in backgrounds, culture and abilities are valued and families are actively encouraged to share their experiences with educators, staff, and other families. The school involves the community to assist educators, staff and children understand and accept the range of cultures and abilities of members of the local community. The school will ensure that appropriate inclusion support services are accessed and referred to families to support children’s well-being and full inclusion into the program. If cost is involved, parents may be responsible for this fee.

GUIDANCE AND DISCIPLINE:

Guidance and discipline are words used to describe adult attempts to influence the child’s behavior. Our focus is Conscious Discipline by Dr. Becky Bailey. The goals of the Center’s guidance and discipline policy include the following:

- Help the child develop a positive self-image.- Provide them tools to calm themselves (breathing techniques such as the drain, balloon, pretzel or S.T.A.R.).- Help the child to learn to regulate his/her own behavior. Give them the tools and they will eventually use them on their own.- Help the child to appropriately behave as a member of his/her peer group.- Help the child to learn to express emotions appropriately. Have them “use their words”. Do not just give in to them just

because you know what they want. Have them talk and tell you what they want or express their feelings. If it was not a good choice, discuss how they could have done it differently or what they could have said to make it better.

Center staff influence behavior of the individual child and the group through direct and indirect guidance strategies, which include: - Arrangement of space through utilization of well-planned learning centers. This allows for teachable moments and student led activities. - Selection and arrangement of developmentally appropriate play materials and educational activities. - Scheduling of daily routines. - Consistency - Positive interactions

Direct guidance strategies are also used at the Center. These include: - Physical closeness. We often get down on their level and tell them to “look at my eyes”. We explain why we want a

certain behavior or response. - Verbal communication such as setting limits, redirecting behavior, etc. - Implement calming strategies e.g. Breathing techniques such as “the drain”, Dr. Becky Bailey’s conscious discipline. - Give the child freedom of choice with the result being the desired outcome wanted. E.g. It is time to go outside, you can either walk or skip, it is your choice but we must go outside. Discipline must be:

1. Individualized and CONSISTENT for each child.2. Appropriate to the child’s level of understanding and,3. Directed toward teaching the child acceptable behavior and self-control + tools + consistency= Success

A Caregiver may only use positive methods of discipline and guidance that encourage self-esteem, self-control and self-direction, which include at least the following:

1. Using praise and encouragement of good behavior instead of focusing only upon unacceptable behavior.2. Reminding a child of behavior expectations daily by using clear, positive statements.3. Redirecting behavior using positive statements; and

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4. The students have a “SAFE PLACE” in the classroom where they can choose to go if they need time to themselves to think things through or to get some alone time. They are given tools to calm themselves by breathing techniques, conscious discipline items, etc.

5. Breathing techniques are implemented daily to help children regulate their emotions and behavior. There are many breathing techniques but the four most common are:

1. STAR2. Drain3. Pretzel4. Balloon

There must be no harsh, cruel, or unusual treatment of any child. The following types of discipline and guidance are prohibited:1. Corporal punishment/spanking or threats of corporal punishment.2. Punishment associated with food, naps, or toilet training.3. Pinching, shaking, or biting a child.4. Hitting a child with a hand or instrument.5. Putting anything in or on a child’s mouth.6. Humiliating, ridiculing, rejecting, or yelling at a child.7. Subjecting a child to harsh, abusive, or profane language.8. Placing a child in a locked or dark room, bathroom, or closet with the door closed; and9. Requiring a child to remain silent or inactive for inappropriately long periods of time for the child’s age.

Texas Administrative Code, Title 40, chapters 746, Subchapters L, Discipline and Guidance

Communication: Director/Parent/Teacher Collaboration Regarding Challenging Behavior:

Parents are notified daily of their child’s day via MyKidzDay App which is an app that is downloaded to any smartphone, Ipad or computer. If there are any question or concerns about the child’s behavior, the parents are notified on the app. If the child’s teacher is still present at the time of the child’s departure, the teacher will briefly discuss with the parent. This allows them to ask questions, strategize together and allows the child to see that the teacher and the parent communicate. If the parent and/or the teacher feel that further discussion is needed, a conference is set-up during the teacher’s conference time. Some approaches are to come up with strategies to help the child through this difficult time. We ask that

parents come to the conference with 3 possible solutions and the center staff will come with 3 possible solutions as well.

PARENT CONFERENCES

We offer two conferences a year, to request a conference, please email the school to schedule. However, if at any time there is a concern by a parent or a teacher and a conference needs to be scheduled, notifications will be made and a day and time for the meeting between the parent, lead teacher, assistant director and director if at all possible, will be arranged. Parents can request a conference at any time but must understand that conferences are held during the teacher’s conference day and time to withhold appropriate child-teacher ratios. Conferences can also be conducted by phone.

PARENT EDUCATION AND INVOLVEMENT:If at any time you need additional resources on breastfeeding, community events, medical assistance, nutrition, etc. please let us know as we have a binder that includes plentiful resources.

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We will offer education to the parents during PTO, or other times throughout the year. An invitation will be sent via email, app, Facebook, cubby or by way of posting on the door or parent nook. These may include First Aid, CPR, Child Seat Safety, lice prevention, insurance benefits, biting information, etc...

MASTERMIND GROUPS: Masterminds consists of small group instruction conducted by Mrs. Tina, Mrs. Kimberly and Mrs. Kaitlyn. Children will receive small group instruction of reading, math, science/social studies instruction at school for 20-30 minutes a day. These are the children in the Preschool 2 class. The program is optional but is highly recommended because it will prepare them for Kindergarten. Children will have daily homework that must be done each night. Children must bring their homework folders with all materials to school every day. If supplies/homework are not brought to school each day, then the child does not participate in class for that day as supplies are a necessity during group instruction. Each Friday is Fun Friday. If a child has made poor choices throughout the week, they MAY not attend Fun Friday. They must learn that behaviors and choices have consequences and to participate in fun events, they must make the right choices. Again, this is part of school readiness program. Only students who are 4 years old by September 1st are eligible to participate. Invitation notes will be sent home in September of each year for parents to commit their child’s participation in the program. (The beginning month is subject to change for unforeseen circumstances).*Children will receive 2 warnings and then may be dismissed from Masterminds after multiple occurrences of forgetting supplies and incomplete homework. *

DAILY SCHEDULE: Each classroom has a daily schedule. The schedule for each group is planned to meet the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of the children. The schedule is arranged into blocks of activity throughout the day. A copy of the schedule is posted in each classroom. We will, however, provide a copy upon request. The general daily schedule is arranged as follows:

Arrival (outside time) Moderate to vigorous teacher led at times. A.M. snack Circle/Group time/am Activity Centers: dramatic play, math/manipulative, library, art, technology, blocks/math, sensory/science, writing, music,

listening Lunch Outside time: Moderate to vigorous teacher led activities. Quiet time/nap time Gym/classroom time: Moderate to vigorous teacher led activities. Songs/finger plays/Storytime Music and games P.M. snack PM Activity Free choice centers Departure (Outside time) Possible moderate to vigorous teacher led activities. Stretch-n-go fitness classes: Occur Wednesday (Center-Paid) for both Preschool classes. Moderate to vigorous

teacher led activities. Stretch N Grow camps offered are Gymnastics, and Dance (Ballet/Hip-Hop/Jazz). The classes are conducted in

rotation from SNG for all students in preschool classes. These camps are parent paid and parents must sign up in advance for the child to participate.

Various Camps are offered in the summertime. You must sign up for these classes. (Some offered in the past have been sports, cheer, dance, basketball). End of semester performances are conducted for parents.

TOTS: Teams Of Tomorrow Sports: this class is parent paid and pre-registration is required. This class teaches children basketball skills and allows them to perform at the end of the semester.

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*** Please have all children here by 9:00 a.m. Children arriving between 9:00-2:00 tend to cause a distraction to the schedule, especially during nap. Please attempt to schedule Dr.’s appointments before 9:00 or after 2:00. We do understand that it is not always possible to schedule appointments before 9 or after 2. If you must schedule an appointment during these hours, please make sure that you let the office know in advance that you will be bringing your child in between the hours of 9:00 and 2:00 as it must be approved. If your child comes in when their classes lunch has already started, you will need to have them fed before they return to school. You will also need a Dr’s return to school note upon arrival. If shots were given, an updated copy of the child’s immunizations must be turned into the office for the child’s school file.Please notify the office at least one day in advance for ALL doctor appointments so we can write them on our school calendar. All Dr. Appointments require a return to school note. Thank you for your cooperation.

THE ENVIRONMENT/CURRICULUM The environment both indoors and outdoors is set up by learning centers which include: -Creative Expression-Materials in the areas of art, music, and creative movement. -Manipulatives- Materials for problem solving, small muscle development and eye hand coordination. Ex. puzzles, pegboards, connectors, snaps, zippers, etc. -Dramatic play- Props to role play social roles, ex. occupations, families, home living, -Library/Language arts- Materials to develop language skills and concepts, Ex. books, puppets, flannel boards, cozy corner -Science- Activities and materials to develop understanding of the physical world. -Blocks- Materials to enhance problem solving, math, muscle development and imagination. -Group time/Unite- Activity time to develop social and language skills. Learn days of the week, months of the year, calendar, story time learn facts about the theme, weather, word of the week, other vocabulary, calming, strategies, etc... -Sensory- Activities and materials to encourage children to utilize different textures. e.g. water play, sand play, etc.

Children are given blocks of time to play in the learning center of their choice. Through participating in play activities, children’s growth in all areas is advanced. Teacher interaction with the children as they play and learn, helps them to plan for the needs of the child and the group. At times, the children are interacting in centers while the teacher pulls small groups or individual to work.

Frog Street Press is the curriculum which is implemented at First Step School. This innovative curriculum is aimed at empowering kids by developing their life skills and showing them the importance of having good manners. It challenges and enhances the childrens social/emotional, cognitive, and physical development on many levels.

Frog Street: Infant

Designed around the latest scientific early brain development research, Frog Street infant is designed to build strong foundations for little one’s ages 0-18 months.

Equip caregivers to nurture the little ones in their care. Optimize key windows of opportunity for growth and development. Are designed with intention and purpose and organized around developmental learning domains. Feature Dr. Becky Bailey’s Conscious Discipline strategies to enhance social and emotional development.

Frog Street: Toddler

This program is designed around the latest scientific research and is comprised of 52 weeks of easy-to-use activities specifically created for children ages 18-36 months.

Are organized around five developmental domains,

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Offer differentiated instruction options to meet the needs of all learners. Can be easily infused into daily routines, such as diaper changing, transitions and outdoor play. Are designed with intention and purpose to move children forward in all areas of their development.

Frog Street Three’s:

Frog Street Threes provides intentional instruction in key areas of development so children ages 36-48 months can effectively continue the path to Kindergarten readiness.

Well-rounded scope of activities that address all developmental domains Intentional instruction that optimizes key windows of opportunity for growth and development Social and emotional emphasis featuring Dr. Becky Bailey’s Conscious Discipline All materials are available in English and Spanish (Bilingual curriculum)

Frog Street Pre-K:

Frog Street Pre-K is a comprehensive, research-based program that integrates instruction across all developmental domains and early learning disciplines. It is engaging and easy to use for both teachers and children!

An extensive integration of theme, disciplines, and domains Social and Emotional development includes Dr. Becky Bailey’s Conscious Discipline Differentiated instruction Equity of English and Spanish materials and instruction (Bilingual curriculum) Joyful approach to learning

CURRICULUM GOALS FOR THE CHILDREN:

General goals: -Building healthy and positive self-concepts. -Providing opportunities to enhance social/emotional and cognitive skills. -Encouraging children to think and reason, question, and experiment. -Promoting language development. -Encouraging and demonstrating sound health, safety, and nutrition habits. -Respecting cultural diversity. -Providing opportunities for physical development. -Develop independence skills

Developmental Milestones: Birth – 3 years -Develop a sense of wellbeing and emotional security. -To develop competence with physical world (cause and effect relationships, physical, spatial, and temporal awareness). -To develop a sense of physical wellbeing and of the physical self. -To develop language. -To achieve motor skills. -To interact appropriately with others (sharing, expressing feelings).

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-Enhance symbolic representation. -Develop beginnings of self-control and self-concept -Self independence/Self-help skills such as putting away own toys, feeding self with a spoon, holding on bottle, putting themselves to sleep, putting away their own blanket, toileting independently, etc.

Developmental Milestones: Preschool -To interact competently with peers, e.g., taking turns, sharing, leading, following, both individually and in a group. -To expand vocabulary and sentence structure. -To be able to listen when appropriate. -To be able to stay with a task until completion. -Develop good health and eating habits. -Develop gross and fine motor skills. -Know basic safety practices. -Recognize that everyone is unique. -Retain an attitude of curiosity about the world. -Develop an awareness of cultural diversity. -Achieve basic cognitive skills, i.e., comparing, classifying, sorting, sequencing, awareness of spatial and temporal relationships. -Role playing. -To resolve conflicts appropriately most of the time. - Masterminds Groups. Small group instruction where certified teachers will pull children out of the classroom to teach reading, math, science/social studies for 20-30 minutes per day. This is optional for children in the Preschool 2 classroom who are 4 by September 1st.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES:

As per Minimum Standards, students are required to go outdoors daily at least 45 minutes in the morning and 45 minutes in the afternoon. All children will go outside daily, INCLUDING INFANTS, if the weather permits. There will be 90 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activities for the preschool age children and the infants and toddlers will have at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. This is teacher led and can be combined with the other outside time. During colder temperatures, the children will go outdoors if it is 40 degrees or warmer, so please dress accordingly. In the hotter temperatures of 95 degrees and higher, the children will go outdoors daily but outside time is limited to no longer that 20 minutes at a time with periodic water breaks and cool off periods indoors.

We do not approve any request to keep your child indoors due to them being sick or getting sick. If your child is too sick to go outside, he/she is too sick to attend school. Outdoors does not make a child sick. A child will get sick a lot faster cooped up indoors with all the germs then they will be going outside in the fresh air. We do not have extra teachers to stay indoors with one child while the others are outside.

SCREEN TIME POLICIES:

Children rarely watch television while in our care. We periodically watch a movie during the Holidays such as Charlie Brown Thanksgiving or Charlie Brown Christmas, etc. Teachers may incorporate a video into their lesson plan to reiterate what they are teaching. However, it will be educational, age appropriate and included in their lesson plan. Children are allowed the use of computers and/or iPads, but these are educational, age-appropriate, and limited. These items are usually rotated during center rotations.

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INFANT INFORMATION

**First Step practices a feed on demand philosophy with infants who are not yet eating table food at regularly scheduled times. The best way to build positive relationships with the infants is to provide warm responsive care and to follow their cues when they are trying to communicate their needs. Therefore, if they are crying because they are hungry, we will feed them as this is their way of communicating with us and this is what builds relationships and trust. All bottles MUST be prepared prior to arrival as we cannot mix or prepare bottles while the children are in our care. All bottles must be labeled with the child’s first and last initial and must have caps that are labeled as well.

All parents have the option to feed breast milk or formula. Parents are welcome to breastfeed their child at the school as we have a chair in the infant room and a more private sitting area in the teacher work room that allow for this. However, when the child turns 12 months, all children must be off the bottle and off the breast. We can still administer breast milk, but it must be given by a cup. Just as we would never force a child to eat, we will never deny a child food when they are expressing hunger. Please keep this in mind when completing the monthly infant feeding schedules due at the first of each month. Though we ask for general times that your child eats or takes a bottle, this is used as a guideline to become more familiar with your child’s developing routine. We will, however, modify it according to your child’s needs on a particular day. Again, we are a FEED ON DEMAND SCHOOL. We will often make suggestions such as when to start feeding your child cereal, introducing the next levels of food, introducing the cup,

introducing snack foods with texture, etc. This is not “to tell you how to raise your child”, it is simply to keep him/her in the general norm of development. Often when children are not introduced to these new levels at certain points in their development, they have a more difficult time when it is introduced later. Please feel free to discuss your child’s dietary needs with the infant teachers, assistant director, or director.

Infant feeding and feeding schedules

At the beginning of each month, an infant feeding schedule will be sent home and parents must update any information that has changed from the previous form. If the information has not changed, we must still have a new form posted each month. Please return the feeding schedule by the first of each month and make sure the date reflects the upcoming month. All children must be on the meal program by 12 months of age. The parents must purchase the meal plan from the school at $4.00 per day. The monthly amount will vary depending on how many days are in the month, but they usually average about $85.00 a month. For children up to 2 years of age, we recommend bibs because they feed themselves and do get very messy. BIBS MUST BE DISPOSABLE! You can provide your own disposable bibs, or you can purchase them from the school for $5.00 a month by adding $5.00 to your meal fee. YOU MAY NOT BRING A REUSABLE BIB. (plastic, cloth, rubber, etc. as these tend to attract bugs, rodents, etc. and are not sanitary.)

Please make sure that once your child is eating hot meals that you have him/her practice spoon usage at all mealtimes. This is an independent skill that children should work on and/or be able to do at 12 months according to the Denver Scale. We start working on this skill at 11 months. All children 12-18 months eat at one time and we will not be able to feed them individually. They must learn to use the spoon and they will succeed much faster if the skill is being practiced at both home and school. Once they are eating the meal plan, they will also be provided a morning and afternoon snack. Therefore, you will not need to bring food/snacks for your child throughout the day. The only exception that we make to meal purchases is if a child is on special diet due to medical reasons. If this is the case, we will need a note from your child’s Dr. to keep in your child’s school file. If your child has been diagnosed with a food allergy, an emergency plan designed by the child’s physician must be on file BEFORE the child can attend school and bring their own lunch. The form for the Dr. that must be completed may be obtained from the office.

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It is also a school requirement that infants 8 months and older must always wear shoes. Please make sure your infant is wearing shoes on daily basis, walking or not.

All curriculum, activities, learning opportunities, schedules and classroom environments are designed and tailored to be age/developmentally appropriate based on different developmental guidelines and measures for young children, including the Denver Scale. It is often necessary to make adjustments to meet the individual needs of the child, or special needs of the group. If you have any concerns regarding the classroom environment, or your child’s participation in class, please speak first with the classroom teacher, and then the assistant director, or director if necessary. We will do our best to accommodate the child’s needs but, in some cases, this may not be possible due to many reasons.

SLEEP: infants

We also practice a sleep on demand philosophy with our infants up to 12 months. If the child needs to sleep and wants to sleep, then we will let them sleep. We will not wake them up upon parents’ requests because they are concerned that they will not sleep at night. We also MUST LAY THEM ON THEIR BACKS TO SLEEP. The only exceptions to either of these is, we have a Dr’s note stating that there is a medical reason. We do check on all the infants during their sleep time for safety reasons.We are not allowed to have any stuffed animals, blankets, pillows, or any other loose items in the cribs. This is a safety hazard and a licensing minimum standard.

We know that infants need lots of love, attention, to be held and spoken to as much as possible. However, there are 9 other infants in the room that we must make sure all needs are met. Therefore, there are times that your child may be upset/crying, and we will get to him/her as soon as we possibly can. We also do not rock babies to sleep. It is particularly important for infants to learn to put themselves to sleep. It is an important independent skill for them to learn. If they fall asleep at feeding or on the floor, we put them in their crib. It is helpful to be as consistent at home and at school to help your child adjust easier. It is often stressful and confusing when one thing is done at home and is not done at school and can cause stress for the child. For example, if your child is rocked to sleep at home or given a blanket, they will have a much harder time at school because we can’t rock them or give them a blanket here to sleep. Consistency both places is crucial for the fairness of the child.

We also use sign language with our babies to help them communicate with us and vice-versa since they are still developing their communication skills. The main things we start with to help them communicate their needs to us are cup, more, please, thank you and all done. We will assist if any parents are not sure of how to sign these useful words. The signs are also sent home on the “move up paperwork” that is given in the infant classroom before the child moves to the 12-18 months room. Even if a parent knows what the child wants, ask them to sign cup or please. Say the words too and they soon associate the word with the signed word and the response. Eventually they do both.

Due to limited space, do not leave car seats at the school unless necessary. We do not have enough storage space. If you must leave the car seat, please make sure the it is labeled with your child’s first and last name and place it in the hallway under the infant classroom windows.

Please note that all children must be off the pacifier and bottle by 12 months. This includes home, school, nap, bedtime.

SWADDLING: According to minimum standards #746.2428, this rule PROHIBITS swaddling infants from being laid down to sleep or rest on any surface at any time.

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CLASSROOM TRANSITIONS:

Children are moved from class to class based on chronological age, developmental age, and availability. We never want to push a child into an environment that is not safe or that is not developmentally appropriate, as this can cause anxiety and stress. This is not in the best interest of child, the other children, the teacher, and the school in general. In turn, we may move a child up a little early to the next class if we see they are more advanced in all areas of development and/or show signs of boredom even if the chronological age has not been reached. Sometimes children younger will move before a child that is older due to the child’s developmental age. Please note that your child may be ready in both areas, but we may not have room in the next classroom, so the child will remain in the current room until there is availability. We will, however, enhance their curriculum to meet the needs of the child’s developmental age.

THE TRANSITION FROM THE INFANT CLASSROOM TO THE 12-18 MOS CLASS

*** For sanitation reasons, and to promote healthy development for infants and toddlers, First Step has established several important policies regarding the transition for children at 12 months of age. Please review these carefully. ***

1. ALL children must be off the pacifier when they are 12 months old. This includes home, school, nap, and bedtime. Children 12 months and older are not given a pacifier during the day at any time. We highly encourage consistent practices at home to make this transition as smooth as possible for the child. Children may be confused and often become frustrated when they are receiving a pacifier at home, but are not offered one at school. This can also cause them not to sleep well at nap and have a difficult afternoon due to being so tired. This, as a result, can cause them to crash when they get home and not be able to spend time with mom and dad.

2. ALL children must begin the hot meal program offered at school unless special dietary requirements or health concerns are documented by the child’s physician and are on file in the office. All children must be enrolled in the program by the child’s first birthday. We will pro-rate the meal plan for the child’s birthday month if they do not start at the first of the month.

3. ALL children must be off the bottle. This includes home, school, nap, and bedtime. Children 12 months to 35 mos. will use a sippy cup. These are developmentally appropriate practices for this age. Again, consistency at home is essential. Children may hold out or refuse their cup if they believe they will eventually be offered a bottle at home.

4. Children must wear shoes daily. If your child has not mastered walking, they may be developing this skill, and will need adequate footwear at age 8 months and older.

5. If your child is getting close to the age when he/she will be moving up or if he/she is already at the age but waiting for availability, then he or she will go to the next class to visit when another child in the next class is absent. They will also be on the 12-18-month schedule to allow for a smoother transition. This will help them to adjust slowly and not have as difficult of a time when they do move up.

6. All teachers are stair stepped in and not all staff arrives until 8:45. Children are combined, meeting the teacher-child ratio until more teachers arrive. Therefore, children under 18 months may be dropped off and most likely picked up in the infant room if it is before 8:45 in the morning or after 4:40 in the afternoon. Children who are over 18 months will be dropped off with the 18-24 month old class if dropped off before 8:45.

***A collaborative approach from parents and teachers is essential in guiding children through this milestone. Working together establishes clear guidelines and ensures the best possible outcome for the child. The one-year mark is a big milestone for your child. Consistency between school and home will prove beneficial to your child during the adjustment. ***

pg. 12

THE TRANSITION FROM 2-YEAR-OLD ROOM TO 3-YEAR-OLD ROOM:

The move from the two-year-old to the three-year-old class is also a big transition. All children must be potty-trained before moving up to the 3’s. This includes school, home, nap, and bedtime. NO PULL-UPS or DIEAPERS while sleeping at night. Children drink milk from an open-top cup during snack and lunch time provided by the school. A sports water bottle, labeled with your child’s name is mandatory daily. Please take this bottle home to wash daily. If your child has a milk allergy or intolerance, a milk substitute must be brought to school. If a parent provides their child’s drink for any reasons listed above, please place the drink container in the large fridge in the 12-18 mos. class. If your child does have a milk allergy, you will need to have an allergy form/plan completed by your child’s physician. Note all children will need a sports water bottle daily labeled with your child’s first and last name.

POTTY TRAINING: (The hardest developmental milestone for toddlers)

Potty training can be easily accomplished, but it TAKES A LOT OF COOPERATION & CONSISTENCY BETWEEN PARENTS AND TEACHERS. IT IS ESSENTIAL TO BE CONSISTENT WITH YOUR CHILD AT HOME AND AT SCHOOL. By not having a consistent schedule and routine, the child may only become confused and lose interest. By signing the potty-training agreement, a parent agrees to keep their child in diapers until the child is staying dry for about a week. Then a transition will be made directly to cotton panties/underwear. This includes home, school, nap, and bedtime. I know parents get nervous at this point but “If a crutch is given, they will use it”. If a child is truly ready to be potty trained and can manage cotton panties/underwear during the day, then there would be no reason that they cannot do it at night. The parent will need to let them know that they have confidence in them, cover the mattress with a protective mattress cover, and put them to bed in cotton underclothing. Yes, there will be some occasional accidents, or they may not have any, but consistency is important to avoid confusion, which often happens when the child is switching back and forth from diapers and cotton underclothing. This will only prolong the accidents. We will take the child to the potty every hour to hour and a half, we do not “ask” them if they want to go, we tell them “it is time to go potty,” and send them. If a choice is given, most likely they will say “no”. Drink intake must be stopped at least one hour before bedtime and never a child should never go to sleep with a cup/bottle. Once the children are ready to wear cotton panties/underwear, we say good-bye to diapers both at home and at school. Cotton panties/underwear should be worn at all times. Wearing diapers at this point will only confuse the child and will hinder the training. Remember, being consistent is the key to this process. You’ve got this!

Please dress your child in clothes that are easily taken on and off. Please refrain from one-piece suits, suspenders, belts, snap crotch items and overalls as these are difficult for teachers and children while going to the restroom. We encourage self-help skills such as pulling up/down their panties/underwear. Five to six pair of panties/underwear and extra clothes as well as socks and shoes should be brought to school every day. When they are soiled, we will tie them in a plastic bag and put them on the cubby to be taken home daily to be washed. The school staff are not allowed to rinse our soiled panties/underwear.

Do not have the child sit on the potty for long periods of time. If he/she needs to go, they will go within 1-2 minutes. VERY IMPORTANT: TAKE YOUR CHILD EVERY HOUR TO HOUR AND A HALF. Don’t ASK them to go, simply say, “It is time to go potty now”. Another thing you must be careful of is letting them go too often and playing. Some use it as a game and think it is fun to flush and wash their hands… we do not allow them to do this unless they actually go to the potty as this seems to be a good incentive for them. When it becomes a game, you often find yourself taking them 3-4 times in one hour and if they are truly ready and have control of their sphincter muscle, then they will be able to hold it for at least one hour at a time. Another incentive is the after potty routines; After they actually go potty in the toilet, allow them the privileges of using toilet paper, flushing the potty, washing their hands, giving them a stamp, etc. These things are a real incentive for your child; Being able to do these things makes your child feel “big”. If they DO NOT go, do not give them the opportunity to do these things. You will find that these few things will encourage a child to go potty. If they are allowed to do them all the time without actually going potty, then it becomes a game and it takes away the incentive. Some of the best times to take your child are as soon as they wake up, 20-30 minutes after a drink, after meals, before going to bed to eliminate bed wetting. Do not put a diaper on your child to sleep at naptime or bedtime to avoid confusion. “If the crutch is given, then they will use it.” If the diaper is on and they do have an accident,

pg. 13

they will not get up to go to the restroom, nor will they care since the diaper absorbs it. If they are in cotton underclothing, it will wake them up or when they do wake up in the morning wet/poopy, they are not going to like the feel of it since the cotton underclothing does not absorb it, which will eventually eliminate the accidents. Children are SMART and are going to do what is easiest.

Praise-Praise-Praise!!!! Do not ever forget to praise your child’s efforts, and especially their success. A negative attitude only develops a negative reaction. This is one of the most challenging developmental milestones that a child goes through. Remember, the most effective approach is consistency at both home and school. Remember… we can do this together! NEVER USE FOOD AS A REWARD!!! Are you ready to make that dedication?

ENROLLMENT/ADMISSION PROCEDURES:

A general/priority wait list is available in the office which is free of cost. Applicants are placed on file if there are no openings at the time care is needed. Applicants are notified as soon as an opening occurs for the appropriate age group. Applicants who have paid a deposit and completed the enrollment agreement are bound by the enrollment agreement and take priority over the general waitlist and will be notified of availability in the order in which payment/agreement was received. To be placed on the secured deposit list or to take an immediate opening, one must complete the enrollment agreement, pay the registration fee of $125, and pay the child(ren)’s last 30 days of tuition by the time the child begins care. This will remain a credit on the account in which will be used for the child(ren)’s last 30 days of care. If a payment plan is needed, then please contact us to work that out.

DEPOSIT/ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT TO SECURE AN UPCOMING SPOT FOR YOUR CHILD

The deposit enrollment agreement forms are on the website at www.firststepschooltx.com under the “forms” tab. It may also be obtained by coming into the school office or emailing us at firststepschool@hotmail.com. Please drop the form off physically or mail to:First Step School4003 Hunter Rd.San Marcos, Texas 78666

A $125 (Full-time), $50 (afterschool) or ($50 drop-in) non-refundable deposit is required for all students and potential enrollees at First Step School. A deposit of $125 can be paid at any time before enrolling either to accept an available spot, or to be placed in line for the next available spot. The order is based on the time in which the deposits are received if there are no current vacancies. If one decides not to use our services and already have an exact start date determined and paid any fees, they must immediately notify the Director or Assistant Director, in writing at least 30 days weeks before your child is to start. If a client accepts a spot, they must make a non-refundable full month’s tuition payment by the child’s first day of care. Once the child begins care, the $125 deposit will be applied to the annual registration fee (administrative/supplies fee) and the month of tuition will be held as a credit to serve as the 30-day withdrawal notice upon withdrawal. If you decide not to use our services and already have paid the deposit, full month’s tuition and you have a start date, you will lose all the paid funds. If a potential client does not have an exact start date but have paid your $125 deposit for the next available spot, then they must notify the director or assistant director in writing immediately that you will not be using services at First Step and will lose all funds paid. The annual fee is renewed each year on the child’s anniversary date of enrollment. This fee may not be waived for any reason.

Below are the 2 options to secure enrollment:

1. Paying a deposit during full enrollment periods when First Step is not accepting new enrollees : Potential clients may be added to the First Step School waitlist at any time free of charge, however those with paid deposits are notified first of vacancies. Those with paid deposits will be notified in the order in which payment was received when there is a suitable vacancy in the age group requested, and then potential clients on the waitlist will be notified in the event that the spot has not been accepted. If a client accepts a spot, they must make a non-refundable deposit of $125 that will be applied to the registration fee upon enrollment. A full month of tuition must be paid by the

pg. 14

child’s start date and will serve as the final payment during the 30-day withdrawal grace period. If the non-refundable deposit payment of $125 is not made within 2 business days of notification, it will be offered to the next person in line. Once a spot has been offered and declined twice, the client will be removed from the waitlist and will required to place another deposit to be added back on the list. Please keep in mind that paying a deposit in no way guarantees a date of enrollment. If, at any time before completing the enrollment process the client decides either not to enroll, or to terminate services, a courtesy phone call/email must be made to notify the school that you will not be using services and any and all fees paid will be lost.

2. Paying a deposit for an immediate opening : Potential clients will pay a $125 non-refundable deposit to accept/secure an immediate/existing opening at First Step. If a client accepts a spot, they must make a non-refundable full month’s tuition by the child’s first day. Once the child begins care, the $125 deposit will be applied to the annual registration fee and the month’s tuition will be held as a credit to serve as your 30-day notice upon withdrawal. If the full month’s tuition credit is not paid by the child’s first day of care, their spot will be offered to the next person on the list. By accepting the immediate opening, on the designated date, the client agrees to begin paying tuition as of the first date of availability, not the first day of attendance and must be within 2 weeks of deposit being made.

At the time of enrollment, several forms must be completed and returned to the school at least 1 day BEFORE the child may attend, Immunization records and proof of a physical examination must be provided. ALL paperwork must be updated annually. Copies of the previous year’s paperwork are not acceptable. Feel free to make a copy for the child’s records prior to turning it in to the office, as copies of files will not be provided by the office staff.

On your child’s first day, you must pay the full month of tuition or pay half on the 1st and half on the 15th. This is in addition to your last month’s tuition that must be paid before your child starts. This will stay on your account until your child leaves the school. At that time, it will be applied to your last month’s tuition which will account for your 30 days’ notice.

No Shots? No Records? No School! Children will not be enrolled or be able to attend unless an immunization record is presented, and immunizations are kept up-to-date at all times!

Parents may make changes to any of the enrollment forms at any time they see fit.If at any time your personal information changes, such as address, phone numbers, place of work, work address, emergency contact, authorized pick-up list, etc... please stop by the office and/or email us of the changes so your child's school file is up-to-date. Any of these can be done by phone except the pick-up list as we must have written documentation either hand-written or an email.

The annual enrollment fee for full-time students is $125.00 total ($65 registration fee and $60 supply fee) paid upon enrollment or when securing a spot by completing the deposit and the enrollment agreement. This is an annual fee paid on the child’s anniversary when paperwork will be updated and resubmitted. The enrollment fee/deposit for summer program and afterschool care are separate fees, each $50. The annual fee may not be waived for any reason, not even when your child is leaving or going to Kindergarten. The paperwork is sent on the 15th of each month, if not before, and must be completed by the 15 th of the next month. It does take a while to complete the paperwork in full, this is why we allow an entire month to complete. Please do not wait until the last minute to complete as sometimes the Doctor’s form takes a few days to get completed. If the fee of $125.00, the completed paperwork, Dr’s form and a box of tissue is not completed and turned in by the 15 th, First Step does have the right to refrain the child from attending until all is complete. Remember, the Dr’s form must be filled out by the child’s doctor and signed by the doctor. A copy of the child’s shot records does not take place of this form. It can be accompanied with the Doctor’s form but does not suffice alone.

All enrolled families must have working telephone service and must provide telephone numbers for making contact possible throughout the day. In case of injury or illness, Center staff must be able to get in touch with a child’s parents immediately; or one of the designated release persons. The Center does not have a “sick child” component to its program nor is the Center equipped to care of sick children. It is unfair to the child to be in an environment where treatment cannot be provided because a sick child must be segregated from the other children per the Texas Minimum Standards. To do this, one staff person will have to

pg. 15

be assigned to supervise one sick child, which is very costly. As soon as the child is removed from the children’s group, the parent or release person is called. If the child remains at the Center after one hour has lapsed, a sick childcare rate of $15.00 per hour will be charged to the child’s account to off-set the cost of providing one-to-one care for more than the one hour. If three separate incidents occur in which a child is sick and no one can be reached to pick up the child, the family will be asked to seek childcare elsewhere.

Children with special needs will be considered on an individual basis and will be accepted if we are assured, we can fully meet the child's needs and the needs of other children in the group with reasonable accommodation. In all cases, the child must be able to participate and substantially benefit from our program without risk to him/herself or to other children. We may be able to accommodate the child at one point and but at another point in time, we may not be able to. If at any time we do not feel that we can meet a child’s needs, that the situation at hand is unsafe for the child, the other children or the teacher, then we do have the right to ask the parents to provide assistance for the special needs child or dismiss the child. If a child with special needs inquiries about care at First Step School and we have no immediate vacancies, as with all children, a waiting list is maintained for future enrollment.

Placements in our classes cannot be held for children who withdraw for the summer months. Parents must submit their 30 days’ notice in writing and move forward with the new enrollment policies. Any exceptions to this will be decided by the Director.

BABYSITTITTING:

First Step School does not encourage, nor deny teachers from providing babysitting services to parents upon request, however the agreement between parent and teacher in no way represents an agreement between First Step and that parent. First Step does not arrange babysitting and is not responsible for upholding agreements made between parents and teachers, nor is First Step responsible for any damages or losses incurred as a result of such an agreement. This includes but is not limited to loss of or damage to property, or any damages resulting from a breach of agreement. All babysitting agreements must be made outside of school/work. Private contact information for teachers will not be released to parents, and teachers are not permitted to make babysitting arrangements while at work. Parents may not call to make babysitting arrangements or leave babysitting instructions for teachers through the office. Even though such agreements are made outside of First Step, it is expected that both parties maintain a professional relationship that does not jeopardize or cause a conflict of interest while at First Step. Parents are not to discuss a teacher’s terms of employment or other employee related business pertaining to First Step, just as teachers are expected to refrain from divulging personal information pertaining to parents while at First Step. If there is a conflict of interest, or any other incident that causes a client/school or teacher/school conflict, both parties will be asked to discontinue the babysitting agreement for services. Parents may not withhold payment or other required information from First Step due to an unresolved conflict or dispute over babysitting services with a teacher. The First Step babysitting policy may be modified at any time in order to address any issues that may arise and will be done so at the discretion of the Owner/Director.

TERMINATION:

Enrollment may be terminated for various reasons at the discretion of the director, including but not limited to non-payment of tuition and fees, refusal to adhere to policies, not being able to meet the needs of a child/family, repeated behavioral concerns that pose a risk of harm to the child or other children/staff and disruption to the daily routines, or other unacceptable situations that may arise that would be inconsistent with the philosophy and policies of First Step.

Tuition: Enrollment may be terminated for non-payment of any portion of tuition, fees, or other balances owed to First Step, or for refusal to pay any portion of these amounts.

pg. 16

Policies: Enrollment may be terminated for repeated violations and disregard of school policies, or for refusal to adhere to the policies outlined and agreed upon prior to enrollment. First Step also has the right to temporarily withhold care until payment is made.

Behavior: In the event that a child’s behavior poses a risk or harm to another student or teacher, or consistently disrupts the daily class routine, steps will first be taken to redirect and manage the behavior. Subsequent steps are outlined below:

1. A behavior plan will be developed to help direct the child in setting & meeting reasonable goals specific to his/her own behavior. This will be done through the cooperation of parents, teachers, and the Director through brief conversations and emails. Open communication and active parental involvement are required in order to achieve behavior goals.

2. Parent/Teacher Conferences are called when the initial behavior modification attempts are unsuccessful. At this time, the parents, teacher, Assistant Director and Director will develop a new strategy to address the behavior. It is strongly encouraged that the parents take an active role in implementing these techniques at home as well . Consistency is key. We welcome any contributions from the child’s pediatrician, or other specialist with whom the parents have consulted.

3. Suspension and or termination is the final measure and is at the discretion of the director when all other avenues have been explored and… a) there is no sign of significant improvement and/or the child’s attendance would pose a risk to children/staff b) Parents are unwilling to cooperate by addressing and re-enforcing the terms of the behavior contract.

RIGHTS: We have a right to refuse services to anyone. This can be determined by the office staff, Owner and/or Director.

ATTENDANCE /ABSENCES:

It is important for children to attend the Center except for illness or a special event. Inconsistent daily/weekly routines can make adjustment to the group care situation harder for children. When a child must be absent, parents must call, email, or leave a voice message to let staff know the reason for the absence, and the expected return date. When a child is ill, the type of illness and whether a physician has made a diagnosis is important information for the Center to have. The information will help us to look for the symptoms in other children and send them home quickly to stop an epidemic from occurring. We can also share the information with other parents if it is something that is contagious. The Center is required to report communicable diseases to the Texas Department of Health if they are categorized to be reported.

Remember, anytime a child is seen by a Doctor, a return to school note must be obtained and submitted to the office upon returning to school.

** PLEASE HAVE CHILDREN at school, signed into their teacher BY 9:00AM. THERE IS NO DROPPING OFF BETWEEN 9-2. *** If a child has a Dr’s appointment, we will accept the child after 9am if prior arrangements are made at least one day in advance with the OFFICE and a Dr’s note is brought stating the child had an appointment and is okay to return to school. Parents may drop off at 2pm, after nap but you MUST notify the office by 9am so plans can be made accordingly.

CCS CLIENTS/ABSENCES:

pg. 17

If a family is a CCS client, it is important that they notify the school by phone, in person or via email whenever their child is absent or ill. The school needs to know the reason the child is out and the parent is also responsible for reporting this absence by calling the 1-800 number on the back of your CCS card. Please report the absence before noon on the day of the absence. Failure to swipe daily may result in termination of care. Remember that each family can request up to 6 cards so please make sure that everyone who will be dropping off or picking up the child from school has a card to swipe.

PLEASE SWIPE EVERYDAY UPON ARRIVAL, DON’T WAIT UNTIL PICK UP. Failure to comply with this, can result in termination of care.

INCLEMENT WEATHER: Emergency School Closings

In the event of possible school closures or delayed start, parents must check the First Step School Facebook/email or check the MyKidzDay app for updated information. Please do not call the school as we will not be able to come on site to leave an updated answering message. The decision to delay or cancel classes is one that is not taken lightly, as First Step understands that changing the time school starts or closing schools altogether disrupts not only the normal routine of parents but the routine of the children and teachers.

Procedures for Closing or Delaying School (Closure known in advance---before the school opens for the day)

In the event of inclement weather conditions endemic to the San Marcos area such as flooding or ice conditions, county and state officials will determine if it is in the best interest of the students, staff and community to either delay or cancel school.

The following procedures are followed to make that determination:

First Step School Director/Assistant Directors will call the local authorities of Hays County for road conditions and related information.

First Step School Director/Assistant Directors will monitor the weather conditions in the San Marcos Area and the area near the school.

First Step School Director/Assistant Director will travel area roads and bridges to evaluate their condition. If conditions are questionable, the Hays County Crisis Authority to relay the condition of roads, bridges etc.

A decision will be made by 6:00 a.m. to either delay opening of schools or cancel classes. A delayed opening means First Step School will open at 10:00 a.m. and all children must be signed into their teachers by 10:30 a.m.

Parents will be notified by email and/or MYKIDZDAY app and/or Facebook. Please stay tuned to your email, Facebook page and/or app to find the status of the school closures. A mass email will be sent once a determination is made, if possible. However, depending on the situation, this is not always possible.

pg. 18

Please DO NOT call the school as their will not be anyone available to answer the phone if we are closed or delayed because if it unsafe for families to arrive, then it will also be unsafe for staff to arrive.

Procedures for EARLY RELEASE of school in an emergency (Closure happens while school is already open)

The following procedures are followed to make that determination:

The Director/Assistant director can be forced to shut down via childcare licensing in the event of electricity outage, phone line down, chemical spill, hurricane, severe weather, water leak causing no access to water, gas leak nearby or any other unforeseen circumstances that may occur.

There are other times that the Hays County Sheriff’s Department or city officials may force closure of First Step School for any unforeseen circumstance, in that case, we must comply.

If the school must have an unexpected early release for ANY reason, parents will be notified by email, Facebook and/or MYKIDZDAY app. Please refrain from calling the school or emailing with a response as the office staff will be working diligently to ensure the early release is handled safely and in an organized manner. Please just be on your way to pick up.

OPERATING HOURS/ DAYS/ EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLAN:

The Center is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily Monday through Friday. (The hours are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances). We operate on a school calendar from August to August, not a calendar year. The Center closes for major holidays and 2 professional development days per year, as well as a 2-day training in Dallas. These closures are announced at the beginning of the school year in August and are subject to change. In case of an emergency situation, e.g., snow/ice storm, flooding, chemical spill, phone lines down, water turned off, hurricane, no electricity, etc. the Center will be closed or closed early and parents must immediately pick up their children from the Center if already in care. If school has not opened, school may be open late or close until safe to operate. Tuition reimbursement and/or credits are not available for days the center is closed due to emergency situations . In the case of severe weather, or other possible threats, the closure of the center will be considered and weighed carefully before a final decision is made. Decisions will be made based on available information and the safety of both children and staff. Closures will be announced via email to all parents, Facebook and the school app, if possible. In the event of no electricity or phone service, a sign will be posted on the door, if possible.

There are circumstances under which the Center will be closed for an emergency during a regularly scheduled service day, which include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Electricity is off for a continuous period of two hours or for a shorter duration that causes problems for children’s wellbeing (as during severe weather conditions or electric problem).

2. Phone service is disrupted to the extent that we have NO contact or access to contact emergency services or parents.3. Water service is off for a continuous period of two hours with no prospects of immediate resumption of service or if water

service is scheduled to be disrupted for this period. This is necessary for hand washing, toileting, food preparation.4. Flood, ice storm where students may be flooded in or out or icy road conditions make it unsafe to transport children

and/or teachers to drive to work.5. Any other unforeseen circumstances.

pg. 19

1. Evacuation Procedures:

a. In the event of a mandatory or voluntary evacuation from First Step School all employees, teachers, students, and volunteers are to meet at Rock N A Materials, 110 Posey Rd. San Marcos, Tx 78666. ( 512-396-1650)

b. Employees, Teachers, Students, and Volunteers will be transported to Rock N A Materials by walking to the premises. c. Children that are 24 months of age, who have limited mobility or who otherwise may need assistance will be evacuated

and relocated to a designated safe area or alternate shelter by means of a bye-bye buggy, walking rings or a crib.

d. Diagram of relocation site (below or the next page)

e. Emergency Location Address: Rocking A Materials, 110 Posey Rd. San Marcos, Tx 78666f. Each child will be accounted for at our emergency evacuation location by way of sign in and out sheets and physically

counting the children to make sure they match.

2. Communication: a. Rock N A Material’s phone number: (512) 396-1650b. In the event emergency services must be contacted, the phone at Rock N A Materials or a staff members cell

phone will be used.

3. Essential Documentation

pg. 20

Posey Rd.

Hunter Rd.

Rock-n A

MaterialsFirst Step

a. Parent and emergency contact telephone numbers for each child in care will be transported to the evacuation location by Tina Owens Director/Owner and/or the Assistant Directors. We have an emergency binder that contains every child's emergency medical form. This form contains parents, emergency contact and Dr's information. In the event that neither Directors are present, the Lead Teacher will transport. The emergency binder also contains, the child’s pick-up list, emergency care plan if applicable, and all local authorities contact numbers as well as licensing information.

b. Authorization for emergency care or each child in care will be transported to the evacuation location by Tina Owens Director/Owner and/or the Assistant Directors. In the event that neither Directors are present, the Lead Teacher will transport.

c. The child tracking system (sign in and out sheets) will be transported to the evacuation location by each child’s caregiver (teacher).

4. Knowledgeable: a. This plan will be shared with all new staff during orientation and will be available for review for all staff in the staff

handbook and parent handbook in which each staff member has an updated copy in their possession.b. Parents are informed of this emergency preparedness plan as outlined in the parent handbook which each family

receives upon enrollment and can be found on our website at www.firststepschooltx.com.

5. Coordination: a. The Director/Assistant Director will implement the emergency preparedness plan. b. In the event that the Director is not present, the Assistant Director will implement the plan. If no Directors are

present, the Lead Teacher will implement the coordination of the emergency preparedness plan. When everyone is safely at the location and necessary people are notified, the person in charge will notify the Director/Assistant Director of the situation via cell phone or land line. The Director/Assistant Director will arrive at the relocation site as quickly as possible to help with the situation.

6. Practice : A severe weather drill/shelter-in place, a lock-down drill, and a lock out drill are conducted at the center 4 times a year and a fire drill will be conducted monthly. Documentation of all of these drills are documented and posted on the information board in the Directors office.

**In the event of flood, loss of utility services, or other emergency that requires the immediate evacuation of the school, (but are not forced to relocate) all children must be picked up immediately. An emergency evacuation plan is in place to facilitate the timely evacuation of all students and teachers in any circumstance in which the school must close. All parents must be able to either pick up, or have a local designated emergency contact who is able to pick up upon contact from the school. The safety of the child, staff, and any staff children is compromised when emergency evacuation is substantially delayed due to parents not picking up in a timely manner. Emergency contact procedures are as follows:

A mass email will be sent to all parents notifying them of the emergency, if possible. A mass notification via app will be sent to parents notifying them of the emergency, if possible. A Facebook post may be posted on our Facebook page. First Step will then begin to call all parents individually to notify of evacuation. Infant parents, and parents working

outside of San Marcos will be contacted first, and then all other parents will be contacted. If there is an emergency or a child must be picked up right away and we can’t get in touch with a parent, we will call the emergency contact then the people on the authorized pick-up list.

pg. 21

During an emergency, please refrain from long conversations with contact staff, and eliminate incoming calls to the school, as this ties up the phone lines and delays notification to other parents.

FOR PARENTS: EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLAN INFORMATION FOR FIRST STEP SCHOOL

What is an emergency preparedness plan?

An emergency preparedness plan is designed to ensure the safety of children during an emergency by addressing staff responsibility and facility readiness with respect to emergency, relocation, shelter-in-place, and lock-down/lock-out. The plan addresses the types of responses to emergencies that are most likely to occur in our area.

An evacuation of the children and caregivers to a designated safe area in an emergency such as a fire or a gas leak. A relocation of the children and caregivers to a designated, alternate shelter in an emergency such as a flood, a hurricane,

medical emergency or communicable disease outbreak. The sheltering and lock-down/lock-out of children and caregivers within the center to temporarily protect them from

situations such as a tornado, volatile person on the premises, or an endangering person in the area.

Drills are performed to practice the emergency preparedness plan. The drills and the number of practices per year are as follows:

Fire drill: Practiced monthly at different times to account for various situations and activities Severe Weather drill: Practiced four times a year at different times to account for various situations and activities Sheltering-in-place/Lockdown/Lockout: Practiced four times a year at different times to account for various situations

and activities During a lock-down, all school activities are moved indoors No one can enter or exit the building Parents MAY NOT come to the school during a lockdown Parents are discouraged from calling the school directly. Additional calls hinder the ability of staff to respond to the

primary task: keeping everyone safe.

How will I know if First Step School is having to implement an emergency preparedness plan?

Once an emergency plan is put in place, the Director, Teachers, local authorities (if needed) work together to first ensure the safety of everyone at First Step. Once the situation has been stabilized, an email and/or app notification will be sent to parents to inform them of the emergency, the nature of the incident, and about how long it was in place. If the emergency occurred at the end of the day, the parents will be notified the following day.

Can I come to the school and take my child home?During an emergency, your child’s school is a secure area. School officials and law enforcement are working together to keep everyone, safe, and no one can be dismissed from school. To ensure everyone’s safety, we ask that parents please refrain from coming to school during these emergencies. Once the all-clear is given, students and staff will be permitted to enter, exit, and be dismissed.

Parents: Please ensure that First Step School has your most up-to-date emergency contact information on hand.

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In the event of an emergency, school staff will use that contact information in the student files to contact parents. If any of your information has changed or you are not sure if the office has the most up-to-date information (email, work number, cell number, home number, emergency contact, pick-up list contacts.) Please check with the school Director/Asst. Director and provide the most current information.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT/FAMILY EXPECTATIONS:

We invite parents to participate in their child’s program in whatever way is appropriate for the parent and the group of children in which their child is enrolled. However, we do ask parents to look at each individual situation and if it is really a comfort for the child or for the parent. If it is causing a disruption for the class or the child is having more difficulty the rest of the day or upon separating from the parent again, then we ask that the parent rethink the benefits of the situation. Is it beneficial for the parent or for the child)? Parents are also invited to visit the Center at any time either with or without an appointment. Parents are not allowed to question, evaluate, reprimand, make assessments, etc. about other children while they are visiting. Nor are they allowed to speak to the teacher about concerns they have with another child that is not theirs or contact the child’s parent. There is a confidentiality level that we must follow and if this is not followed, actions will be taken. We do ask that parents respect others’ privacy and that they trust the teacher who works with the children daily to make referrals or handle a situation if he/she feels the need. We also ask that visitors follow our rules at school. If parents are unclear about any rules, please feel free to ask his/her teacher or the Director. Parents observation of the Center’s program is encouraged but limited to their child. Parents may take photos of their own child but must refrain from taking photos of other children or taking photos of their child with other children in the background as some parents have declined authorization for photos to be taken of their child.

ROLE AND INFLUENCE OF FAMILIES:

We strongly believe that the role of families and teachers are both a major impact to a child's success. It is important for families and teachers to work together as a team, with open communication and suggestions to best meet the child's needs. Teachers and families together have a major influence on a child's life and growth. Teachers will share information with the parents on an ongoing basis by way of "MyKidzDay app" that communicates about the child's day. This app can be downloaded on your smart device and/or computer. This is our main way of communicating with the parents and the teachers, therefore, it is crucial that you download and check your MyKidzDay app daily.

Assessments: The teacher will also conduct assessments based on observations and hands-on activities in which the children are engaged. The observations help in planning the individualized lesson plans with Frog Street Curriculum.

Arrival: It is important for children to arrive on time every day. The educational portion of the school readiness program begins at 9am, and when children come in after 9am, it causes learning disruption to other children. Not only is consistency of arrival important but so is consistency of routines because both of these will prepare a child for the transition to kindergarten.

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Classroom Visitation- All individuals other than parents and/or authorized release persons who enter the Center must stop by the office. They will identify themselves, the reason for their visit and if they are picking up a child, they must show their drivers license and a picture will be taken for the child’s school file. First Step staff will not allow a person without verified identification to enter a classroom. Visitors must also sign in at the front door.

Prospective clients will not be allowed free access to the children’s areas (classrooms or playgrounds). If prospective parents want to see these areas, one of the administrative staff will give them a guided tour. The important aspect is that the public (who are not current clients) do not have free access to the Center and the children. A guided tour must be scheduled with the office to ensure that someone is available to walk the guests around the school and speak to them about the school and answer questions that they may have. Directors are the only staff available to do tours and sometimes they are not available for tours due to meetings, interviews, paperwork deadlines, giving other tours, etc.

ANNUAL SURVEY: Parents are offered an annual written evaluation and/or survey. These surveys are optional and the information obtained may be used for school reviews. Suggestions and results will be integrated into the program operation when applicable. If at any time you have questions, suggestions, or concerns, you may stop by the office at any time or you may complete a parent concern form. You may pick these forms up in the office. You can also fill out a suggestion card that is in the Parent’s Nook (turquoise cabinet) near the front door.

FEE STRUCTURE: TUITION AND FEES

Infants 0-18 months $840, 19-36 months $760, 3-5 years (and potty trained) $700, afterschool $350 for van pick-up and bus drop off. Summer program is $700 a month. We offer a 10% discount on the oldest child to families with one or more children enrolled fulltime year around.

We offer 2 payment plans: (1.) Full tuition is paid by the first of the month. (2.) Bimonthly payment made by the 1 st and the other payment by the 15th of each month. A LATE FEE OF $5.00 PER DAY WILL BE CHARGED ON TUITON AFTER THE FIRST OF EACH MONTH, AND AGAIN AFTER THE FIFTEENTH IF PAYMENT PLAN TWO IS CHOSEN. Enrollment may be terminated if tuition and unpaid late fees are not received within 3 days of the due date. This is up to the discretion of the Owner, Tina Owens.

LUNCHES ARE DUE IN FULL ON THE FIRST OF EACH MONTH. THE $5 PER DAY LATE FEE ALSO APPLIES TO LUNCHES. This is a separate fee from tuition.

IF PAYING BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER, PLEASE MAKE TUITION AND LUNCH PAYMENT SEPARATELY.(Both payable to First Step School)

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We now except credit cards for tuition only. We cannot charge lunches on credit cards.There will be a convenience fee of 4% on all credit card charges.

***No Refunds will be made under any circumstances for any reason, this includes termination, absences, illnesses, withdrawal, loss of job, pandemics, unforeseen closures, etc.***

If we are forced to close for any reason, tuition will still be due on the regular payment schedule unless otherwise stated by the director.

If the 1 st or 15 th fall on a weekend, holiday or a First Step closure day, tuition and lunches must be paid by the close of previous operational program day. If not, a $5.00 fee per day will be charged. This will be charged to each of the payments, lunch and tuition.

If paying by check, please be advised that all return checks will incur a $40 returned check fee. The total amount of the check and return check fee must be paid in cash by 6pm within 1 business day of First Step receiving the returned check. Failure to reconcile returned items will result in the check(s) being turned over to the District Attorney’s office for prosecution and termination of care. If a check is returned for any reason, future payments must be made in the form of cash or money order only unless proof of bank error is submitted to the office and continued check writing is approved

Tuition will not be refunded for any absences under any circumstances. The payments are based on a yearly average that includes the days we are closed so no prorating will occur on the days we are closed. Tuition is not charged weekly, it is charged monthly on a yearly average. If we were to charge weekly, parents would end up paying more a month on the average because some months have 4 and some have 5 weeks. Parents are reserving a spot for their child rather the child is in attendance or not, therefore no refunds will be given for absences under any circumstances. This includes drop-in services as well.

**Placements in our classes cannot be held for children who withdraw for the summer months.** Any children that withdrawal for the summer will need to submit their 30 days’ notice in writing, 30 days before their last day of attendance. You can complete an enrollment agreement along with the$125 deposit to secure a spot for the new school year, but there is no promise that the date requested to return will be available. Parents will also be required to pay your last month’s tuition by the time the child returns. This will remain as a credit until the child is withdrawn. Payment plans can be arranged in the office if needed. We will try our hardest to work the child back in, but it may not be the exact date requested. Upon returning, you must proceed with the new enrollment process.

Vacation time of one week (5 school days) per twelve-month period is allowed for full time children who have been enrolled for one year, year around. The vacation must be 365 days apart from the last vacation date taken. Vacation is not available for children who attend after school, as a drop in, or just for the summer. This time should be taken in a full 5-day slot. Please do not ask for 2 or 3-day periods. The 5 days cannot include the days that First Step is closed as these days are already figured into the annual average. Prior notification of one month must be given to the Center for the vacation to be approved. Vacation cannot be used during your last month or 30-day withdrawal period. Families are eligible for vacation on their child’s one-year anniversary date. Vacation must be taken each year within that time frame, if it is not used, it is voided. Vacation may not be taken again for the next year until 365 days has passed since the last vacation. The initial vacation is based on the child’s enrollment date, not the calendar year. For example, a child is enrolled August 1 , 2020. On August 1, 2021, the family is eligible for

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a week of vacation with a prorated amount. The family submits the form on August 15, 2021 to take the vacation on September 15, 2021. The next eligible vacation will be September 15, 2022.

A vacation request form should be filled out and returned to the office. The form must be submitted 30 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF THE DAYS YOU ARE WANTING TO TAKE THE VACATION>>>>NO ECEPTIONS WILL BE MADE. If it is not turned in on time, it will be declined. Once the form is filled out and submitted, we will approve it or not. If it is approved, an approval form will be placed on your child’s cubby with the amount you will owe for tuition and lunches for the pro-rated amount. Vacation credit may not be carried over from year to year. Please turn in your vacation approval form with your tuition payment.Afterschool, drop-ins, and summer care do not count as full time, so they are not eligible for a vacation.

A 30 DAY NOTICE IN WRITING IS REQUIRED IF YOU ARE TAKING YOUR CHILD OUT OF THE CENTER. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR TUITION FOR THESE 30 DAYS IF YOUR CHILD IS IN ATTENDANCE OR NOT. THERE WILL BE NO REFUNDS/PROATES DURING THIS 30 DAY GRACE PERIOD.

Please note: if a child is enrolled for the summer, you must submit a 30 days’ notice in writing to withdraw. Once you withdraw, you will have to put down a deposit and complete a deposit enrollment agreement to reenroll for the fall. You must also pay for the last months tuition in advance. It will be held as a credit to your account and used in your last 30-day withdrawal time frame. We will try our hardest to work the child back in but there are no promises of the exact date of re-enrollment.

First Step will implement a minimum of 3% tuition increase each academic school year, this is subject to change. The gradual increase was established to adapt to the rising expenses of goods and services associated with quality care. The new increased rates will be sent out August 1st of each year to allow for families to submit their 30 days’ notice in writing if they choose not to stay. This gradual approach was adopted with parents and family expenses in mind and allows for adequate budgeting, rather than introducing significant increases at once.

Notary Services: Tina Owens and Kimberly Schulle are both notaries and notarize documents for $10.00 each. 100% of these proceeds go to Willie Thomas Memorial and is used to sponsor the local youth in Hays County with their livestock projects. The organization helps about 50 kids a year.

ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES/DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP PROCEDURES:

Children must arrive at the center by 9:00am. (This means signed in to their teacher by 9am). There is no drop off between 9:00am and 2:00pm. Children who arrive by 9:00am can participate in the morning curriculum, and successfully adjust to the daily class schedule and transitions. The parent or adult bringing or picking up the child must check each child in and out in his/her classroom each day. Each child must be brought into his/her classroom or assigned area each day by an adult (an individual at least 18 years of age-per DFPS). The adult must stay with the child until the parent or guardian has signed in with the teacher in charge. An adult who is a parent or is identified on the child's pick-up list must communicate with the teacher in charge of the group, the teacher must be told the child is being taken home so he/she can sign them out. Children must stay with their parent/guardian at all times after they have been signed out. Children are not permitted to walk outside alone during departure, to play in the classrooms, or to wait for parents at the front door. During busy pick-up times, parents may consider loading the child(ren)’s belongings in their vehicle before signing them out, as to maintain proper supervision at all times.

Separation Procedure: We ask that all parents put away their child's belongings, sign their child in with the teacher in charge and tell the child goodbye. Please do not prolong the drop off process by staying around for a long period of time or by coming back a

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few times. It is best to tell the child, “I am leaving, goodbye, I love you), then go. The longer a parent stays, the harder and longer the child’s separation anxiety lasts. Do not sneak away as this is frightening to some children.

Please do not allow your child to bring food, drink, or any personal items to the playground at drop off or into the classroom or leave them in the child’s backpack. Parents will be asked to take them home or throw them away as we will not permit eating in front of others and it also causes bugs and rodents to be attracted to our play areas and in the classroom. NO FOOD CAN BE BROUGHT FROM HOME UNLESS ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE WITH THE OFFICE.

****PLEASE HAVE ALL CHILDREN HERE BY 9:00AM. NO DROPPING OFF CHILDREN BETWEEN 9:00 AND 2:00. This causes distractions at lunch and nap. Please try to schedule doctor’s appointments early morning or late afternoon if possible. This also can affect our teacher/child ratios. If the only time a parent can get an appointment is after 9am, we will allow the child to arrive late as long as arrangements have been made with the OFFICE in advance and we have a “return to school” note from the doctor.

Bus/Van Routine: As the school-age students get off the bus or load into the van, we make sure everyone is accounted for. The teacher will sign them in on the sign in and out sheet. If someone does not show up that was supposed to, we do the following:

Call the parents-see if they have the child and did not notify you. If they have the child then remind them to always notify us by phone or email.

If they do not have the child, call the bus barn at 512-393-6509 or the parent.1. Tell them the bus number for First Step School. Or their name and grade if they are van pick up.2. Tell them the child’s name that you are missing.3. Find out where they are and when they are coming back to drop the child off. Discuss with school about

whereabouts if van rider.4. Follow-up with the parent.

Late Bus/VanIf the bus is running late, we call the bus barn and check to make sure they are okay and when they expect to arrive. Call the same number from above and keep an eye out for the bus running late. We do the same for van pick-up riders.

PARENTS AND TECHNOLOGY:

WE ARE A DEVICE FREE CENTER: Upon drop off and pick up, please refrain from using your phone while at the center and engage with your child. They are so excited upon the arrival of their parents and cannot wait to tell them about their day and show them the things they have done and made. “The best thing spent on a child is a parents time”.

We do ask that parents refrain from using technology while on site. This includes cell phones, i-pads, tablets, etc. In order to facilitate better communication between parents and teachers and the parent and the child, it is best if parents are not distracted by use of electronic devises while at the center.

LATE PICK UP:

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Late pick up of children will result in a late fee charge of $1.00 per minute after 6:00 p.m. If a parent is late more than 3 times in a year, they will be charged $3.00 a minute after 6pm on the 4th time of picking up late. If the problem continues, it will be up to the discretion of the Director to terminate care. Late fees are due upon pick-up or the next morning upon arrival. If there is no one in the office, just add $1 each minute late (or $3 per minute if it is your fourth offense) and drop it in the payment box mounted on the wall near the exit door. If the late pick up fee is not paid within 2 working days, First Step has the right to decline care until paid or a prolonged period of unpaid fees will result in termination of enrollment. We understand that things do happen that are unpreventable so we do give you one warning and then if it occurs again, we will charge. However, if the first occurrence is a substantial amount of time, we can charge the first time. It is up to the discretion of First Step to determine the length of time and if charges will occur depending on the reason, time, etc.. If you are running late and anticipate that you will not arrive by 6:00 p.m., please try to call to let the closing director know ahead of time or try to make arrangements for someone else to pick your child up. If we have not heard from a parent, we will contact the emergency contact or call on the pick-up list until we get someone to pick up the child. Parents calling the school to let us know they will be late, will still be charged for the late pick up fee.

The cost is high because we have families and plans after work and need to leave by 6pm so please respect our time after closing hours.

EMAIL POLICY:

First Step will utilize email to communicate with parents concerning their child, First Step events, and PTO. Parents are encouraged to check their email regularly since important reminders are often sent via email, including emergency closure of the school. Please refrain from sending forwards, jokes, or other unsolicited emails to the First Step email address. The First Step email address is for school business. We are trying to save trees! Paper/cubby notes will be limited. Most all notes and other information will be sent via email. However, our door is always open should you want to stop by! It is required that parents have a working email that they check frequently.

MYKIDZDAY APP:

Please go to MyKidzDay and download the app. This is the way we communicate with parents about their child’s day. It will provide information on the child’s naps, lunch, activities, learning activities, objectives, bottles, BM’s, bottle intake, concerns, needs, comments section and the teachers will send pictures of your child daily. The parents can also send messages to the teachers. However, all messages need to be sent to the office via email as well.It is REQUIRED that parents have the app and check it frequently.

RELEASE OF CHILDREN:

Children will only be released to persons authorized by the parents. Parents give this information at the time of enrollment. At least three people, each with different telephone numbers, must be named who have working telephone service and who can immediately pick up a child in an emergency when the parent cannot be reached. A person who is not on the release list may not under any circumstances pick a child up from the Center. The parent who wishes to add someone to the release form may do so in the main office. Children can be picked up by an authorized pick up person that is under 18 years of age but only if the person has a valid driver’s license or student ID, and the release is completed in the enrollment packet on the pickup list section. All adults who bring or pick up children must adhere to Center policies in these matters. If the parent calls to tell the school that a child will be picked up by someone who is not on your pickup list, we will not accept this. WE must have documentation by email following the phone call. This is for safety reasons. Please let all people on pick up list that they will need to present their driver’s license when they arrive at the center to the office staff.

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Be advised that the consumption of alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs and public intoxication is prohibited on school premises. First Step School adheres to the policies of the Texas Department of Family Protective Services and will fulfill the responsibility to act in the best interest of the child in any situation that poses a risk of emotional, mental or physical harm to the child and/or other children & teachers at the school, or in any instance of existing or potential neglect/abuse. We request that parents share this information with those persons listed on the authorized pick-up form. Parents will be notified immediately if it is suspected that an authorized pick-up person is under the influence, in which case the child will not be released. In the event that any parent attempts to pick up their child while under the influence, authorities will be notified immediately.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS:

TOYS, MONEY, PERSONAL BELONGINGS ARE TO REMAIN AT HOME! Bringing these items to the Center creates conflict among the children. Prized possessions may be lost or broken which causes stress for the child. There are two exceptions to this rule:

1. On Wednesdays we have show and tell in which the children bring in something special from home to share with their class. The children are to put the show and tell item on their cubby and will take it out only at show and tell time. The object must not be something of big value as we are not responsible for any lost or broken items, nor can it be too large that it will not fit INSIDE the cubby.

2. A “security blanket” or “security object” can be brought but can only be used at naptime. The item must stay in the cubby until nap. Guns and war toys should never be brought to the center. No children of ANY AGE, can wear jewelry such as bracelets, necklaces, etc. Infants may never have stuffed animals or pillows in their CRIBS.

CLOTHING:

Every child must have at least one extra change of clothing at the center. Different situations may require the changing of clothes of any child. Children who are being potty-trained need many clothing items at the center at all times. If your child does not have a change of clothes at the center, you will be called to bring a change of clothes to the school. Infants and toddlers must have a large amount of disposable diapers on hand. Due to sanitation reasons, we cannot accept cloth diapers. We ask that diapers are brought in bulk, not a handful for each day. All children’s clothing/diapers should be labeled to prevent possible loss. This includes outdoor clothing such as gloves, hats, jackets, scarves, etc. Please do not put your child in expensive clothing, and accessories. They will get dirty and we are not responsible for soiled or lost clothing items or accessories .

*** CLEARLY LABEL ALL CLOTHES, CUPS, BOTTLES, BOTTLE CAPS, JACKETS, COATS, BAGS OF DIAPERS, BLANKETS, PILLOWS AND CASES WITH CHILDS FIRST AND LAST NAME OR LAST NAME INITIAL***

Clothing worn to the Center should be appropriate for active, messy play. Children will be unable to fully join in the daily activities if they have to worry about soiling or ruining their clothing. Children spend time outdoors each day unless the weather is extremely bad. Outdoor play is healthy for the children and is required in the Texas Department of Human Services’ Licensing Standards. (Children who are too sick to go outside are too sick to be at the Center). Children do not get sick from being outdoors in FRESH AIR. Outerwear must be appropriate for the weather, e.g., coats and hats for cold weather, sweaters for cool weather, and

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shorts for hot weather. Children will go outside daily if it is 40 degrees or higher. They will also go outdoors on very hot days (90+), but their time is limited to 20 minutes at a time, with water breaks. Please do not ask if your child can stay indoors, as we do not have extra staff on site to accommodate this.

Regarding footwear-Flip-flops and shoes that are easily taken off are not appropriate as they do not provide protection for children’s feet as the children must wear shoes all day as required by TDFPS. This includes infants. Please NO CROCS!!!Children that are under 3 years of age, must wear enclosed shoes. NO FLIP-FLOPS! If your child is 3 year of age or older, flip-flops are allowed but if the child has continuous issues of keeping them on or discomfort, flip-flops will not be allowed for the child.

No children of ANY AGE, can wear jewelry such as bracelets, necklaces, etc. This could be a potential safety issue if a young child puts it in his/her mouth and/or could be lost while in our care. Again, we are not responsible for any loss items so please leave jewelry at home!

The teachers will notify parents at least 2 days in advance in the app if diapers, wipes, milk, or any other items are needed. Please check your app daily.

ITEMS NEEDED DAILY: Children will need extra clothes daily. One drink cup, LABELED W/NAME and a drink container of extra milk no larger than ONE LITER. (2-year-old class &

younger) One water cup (2 and under), LABELED W/NAME. One SPORTS WATER BOTTLE (no sippy cups) for children 3 and older. Please label with child’s name.

Bibs are suggested for children in the 12-18 mos. and 18-24 mos. classes. Bibs must be disposable. Please refrain from sending reusable bibs as they attract bugs and rodents.Bibs can be brought to the school by parents or purchased from the school for $5 per month.

A TRAVEL SIZED Blanket and TRAVEL SIZED pillow (labeled with the child’s name) must be brought on Monday and we send them home on Friday to be washed. We may send them home earlier in the event of accidents at naptime.

***Please note that all sun block and tissue is stored together and will be used one bottle/box at a time as needed***

We do apply sun block to the children before going outside in the afternoon at departure. If there is a problem with this, please notify the office immediately. Bug spray can be applied but must be provided by the parent and placed on the medication shelf clearly labeled with the child’s name.

LAUNDRY/HEALTH:

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The Center has laundry facilities to wash crib sheets, and other general-purpose items that require daily laundering. When children soil their clothing it is placed in a plastic bag, and stored on their cubby for parents to take home for laundering. We CANNOT rinse out soiled clothing in the toilet or the sink as per minimum standards. This is a sanitation practice that is recommended, creating a sanitary, healthful environment for children in group care.

We have found that many parents do not read through the handbook in detail. If you have gotten this far, thank you! We appreciate you taking the time to read this very important and helpful information. Therefore, you have just earned a $10.00 credit on your child’s tuition that must be used upon enrollment. (All you have to do is mention this to us when paying your first payment). Note it must be used on your first payment. Do not stop though, keep reading as this is all important.

MEALS/NUTRITION:

Lunches are not prepared on site; they are catered in by an outside entity that is inspected regularly by the local health department and meet all their requirements. There are times that the food must be prepared on site due to closures of the outside entity, but this is rare.

Menu Planning: Children receive a morning and afternoon snack while at the Center. Daily nutritional hot lunches are provided through our hot meal program. The meal program must be purchased by every student and it includes an a.m. SNACK, a FULL MEAL AT LUNCH and a p.m. SNACK. The hot meal program is $4 per day but must be paid in full by the month on the first day of the month. Depending on the number of days in the week, the monthly amounts differ, but usually run about $80-$85 a month. If your child is a big eater, please feed them breakfast before arriving as we only serve a snack portion. As per Texas Rising Star, the meals and snacks are served family style and are planned according to the USDA nutrition standards and meal patterns. The age of the child reflects the differing nutritional needs and amounts served. These meal patterns specify minimum portion sizes for each meal component depending on the child's age. We may serve more of each meal component, but to meet Minimum Standards and USDA requirements, we must serve at least the minimum. Older children may need larger servings to satisfy their hunger and to get all the nutrients they need. The meal patterns are divided into age groups as follows:

* 1-2 years * 3-5 years * 6-12 years

The center must offer each child in care for more than 7 hours, 2 snacks and 1 meal, EQUAL TO 1/2 OF THEIR DAILY FOOD NEEDS. Age Food Group Amount must serve in care Food Item

1-2-year-olds: Milk/Dairy: 4 oz. milk 1/2 oz cheese 4 oz. yogurt

Meat/Meat alternative 1/2 - 1oz meat 1/2 egg

1/4 cup beans Vegetables 2-3 Tablespoons vegetable

Fruit 2-3 Tablespoons canned fruit 1 small fresh fruit

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Whole Grains 1/2 slice of bread slice of bread 1/4 cup cereal 1/4 cup pasta or rice

1 or 2 crackers

3-5-year-olds: Milk/Dairy: 6 oz. milk 1 1/2 oz cheese 6 oz. yogurt

Meat/Meat alternative 1 1/2 - 1oz meat 3/4 egg

1/4 cup beans

Vegetables 6oz vegetable

Fruit 4oz canned fruit 1 medium fresh fruit

Whole Grains 1 1/2 slice of bread slice of bread 11/2 cup (6 oz) cereal 1/4 cup (2 oz) pasta or rice

2-4 crackers

We carefully planned our menus to ensure that we are serving nutritionally adequate meals to children in our care and that we are in compliance with USDA meal pattern requirements. The 5 basic menu planning principles are:

1. Strive for BALANCE- balance flavors and high-fat foods with low-fat foods2. Emphasize VARIETY- no one food or group of foods can give a person everything needed for a healthy diet3. Add CONTRAST- different textures, flavor and methods of preparing4. Think about COLOR-use combinations of colors that go together well for a great presentation5. Consider EYE APPEAL-first impressions are how the meal looks so make sure what is served looks good as well as

tastes good

Well-Balanced meals provide the food children need to grow, think, fight infection, and fuel their bodies.

We serve hot meals because children tend to get a more balanced, fresh hot meal. The menu is child-friendly but meets the 1/2 of the daily nutritional requirements which is required by state regulations. Our picky eaters seem to eat better because they see everyone else eating the thing. Plus, this gives them an opportunity to try foods that their families may not prepare at home. Hot meals must be purchased for all children 12 months and older on a monthly basis. Parents can review the menu on the website at www.firststepschooltx.com or obtain a copy from the parent nook. The menus are also sent out at the beginning of the school year via email. Lunch amounts for the entire year are emailed in August at the beginning of the school year and a copy can be retrieved from the parent’s nook or can be resent via email upon request. Please note that menus are subject to change for various reasons. E.g. crop demands, deliveries, likes/dislikes of kids, etc. For example, if a particular class loved a certain food one day and the next day, they did not like what was on the menu and there was some left from the day before, we may give that

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to the class instead. Children are given their milk at lunch and snacks. They are also given water at all mealtimes. We try to email the lunch amounts each month, but they are posted on the exit door at the beginning of the month for your reference. We do, however, send a copy of the lunch amounts out at the beginning of the school year and have copies in the parent nook. The lunch check is made Payable to First Step but must be a separate check from that of tuition. You may not split the lunch payment in half; the entire amount must be paid by the first of each month. There is a $5/day late fee if it is not paid by the 1 st of the month. If the first falls on the weekend or on a holiday, the payment is due the last operating day before the first. However, the payment will never be deposited until the first or thereafter. If your child is out for any reason or leaves the school at your choice, lunches will not be credited UNLESS you have stated the days your child will be out BEFORE THE FIRST when lunch payment is due. For example, if you know your child will be out on a certain day in the month, please write, "dates out and list them" in the MEMO SECTION of the check or attach a note if paying by cash. You may also purchase disposable bibs from the school for $5 a month. If you do choose this option, please write "bibs" in the memo of the check and add $5. (you may not use re-usable bibs such as cloth, rubber, plastic, etc.). They must be disposable. If you are paying cash, please attach a note that states that you would like to purchase bibs for the month.

Lunches may only be brought if your child is on a special diet for a medical reason, and we must have a note from a physician stating their dietary requirements or you are enrolled in the CCS government assistance program. If your child brings his/her lunch due to special dietary requirements or as allowed by CCS, please ensure that meals are balanced. The lunch must include a bread/grain, fruit, vegetable and protein/meat product. If your child does not like one of these food groups, we must still offer it daily. You must also bring a HEALTHY morning and afternoon snack. Parents of children who are bringing their lunch will be given handouts containing lunchbox reminders, lunch ideas, sample menus. Please make sure that all food items are labeled, "a.m. snack", "p.m. snack" and "lunch." If your child cannot follow the dietary requirements set by DHS; due to food allergies such as milk, you must provide the Center with physician authorization and an emergency care plan designed and signed by the physician. Please note that if a parent is bringing their child's lunch and snacks, the center is not responsible for its nutritional value or for meeting the child's daily food needs, it is up to the parent. However, we hold a higher standard for mealtime, therefore, we require that all food groups be served daily at throughout the day. All lunches provided by parents MUST be properly stored in a lunchbox with an icepack to maintain the appropriate temperature. Lunch boxes cannot be stored in the refrigerator due to lack of space so please make sure they are packed safely. Lunches from home cannot be heated up so please store appropriately for serving. Make sure the lunchbox is clearly labeled with the child's name. Please DO NOT send lunches in paper sacks or plastic bags. Lunches must be sent in a LUNCH BOX labeled with the child’s name. PARENTS MUST ALSO PROVIDE SNACKS IF THEY ARE PROVIDING LUNCHES. Children are not to bring morning or afternoon snacks unless they also bring their lunch or have made arrangements with the office for certain snack substitutions. Food may not be stored on cubbies unless you provide your child’s meals, and they are safely stored as discussed above. If you bring food from home, ALL food eaten must be from home. Therefore, if there is a party celebration where someone brings cupcakes, cookies, or any other treat, they will not be allowed to eat the treat, they must eat their food that is brought from home. This is safety hazard, so the child is not given something that he/she is allergic too.

In order for a child to eat any previously forbidden foods, a physician’s authorization is necessary. A food allergy authorization form must be updated each year.

If you are supplying your child’s cup and drink container daily, as required for the 12-18 month, 18-24 month, and 2-year-old classes, please send at least one serving of milk. Please send the morning cup filled with milk, and then you may send a refill container of milk depending on how much milk your child consumes at one time. Your child must have at least ONE cup of milk while in our care. Plans/forms may be obtained in the office. If your child has a milk allergy, please supply documentation from his/her doctor saying via emergency care plan. All children will be served milk at snacks and lunch, along with water. In the event that a child forgets a portion in their lunch that does not allow for a well-balance meal, milk, fresh fruit and vegetables are available and must be paid for upon pick up that day. Snacks and lunches will be served family style for ages 2 years and older to encourage independence and self-help skills.

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Staff do not reward or punish children for not having a clean plate or not eating at all.

When the school-aged children arrive for after-school care, they are given a snack, milk and water, then time for homework.

Liquids and foods that are hotter than 110 degrees F are kept out of reach of children.

FOOD/ALLERGIES:

***WE ARE A PEANUT FREE ENVIRONMENT, WE DO NOT SERVE ANYTHING THAT CONTAINS PEANUTS NOR CAN STUDENTS BRING FOODS THAT CONTAIN PEANUTS***

All staff are educated on food allergies and they take precautions to ensure children are protected. Depending on the allergy and the severity, seating arrangements may be adjusted. All children who have food allergies are posted above the "serving window" in the kitchen. Their name, allergy care plan and a photo is posted. This same information is posted in the classroom.

* Approximately 90% of all food allergies are caused by the following foods: milk eggs wheat soy tree nuts fish shellfish peanuts

Food Preparation: The meals are catered in and are prepared in a commercial kitchen or in a kitchen that is inspected by the local health official.

Nutritional Education: Our program values food nutrition and strive to educate the children on healthy food choices. We do this in class by implementing into our lesson plans when appropriate but during conversations at lunch is where the most effective learning takes place. As for the parents, we have provided the following websites for nutrition resources and lunch ideas. We also have handouts available in the parent-s nook or in the office that we would be glad to share with you.

Resources/Websites for healthy eating and lunchbox ideas:http://www.healthyeating.org/Schools/Parent-Nutrition-Education.aspxhttp://www.fns.usda.gov/tn/parentshttp://www.nourishinteractive.com/nutrition-education/teachers-teaching-resources-tips-tools/teacher-parent-partnershiphttp://www.nourishinteractive.com/parentshttp://www.webmd.com/children/features/your-childs-nutrition-power-parentshttp://www.nutrition.gov/life-stages/children/food-nutritionhttp://www.nutrition.gov/life-stages/adolescents/parents-caregivers-and-teachershttp://www.parents.com/recipes/nutrition/kids/http://www.parents.com/recipes/nutrition/kids/10-new-healthy-snacks-for-kids/http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/DietaryGuidelines

Food Allergy Resources:http://acaai.org/allergies/types/food-allergieshttp://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/foodallergies/http://www.foodallergy.org/document.doc?id=123

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Most children "outgrow" their allergies, however, allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish

may be life-long

Symptoms of food allergies:Will begin minutes to an hour after ingesting the food

vomiting diarrhea cramps hives swelling eczema itching, swelling of lips, tongue or mouth itching or tightness in the throat difficulty breathing

http://www.eufic.org/article/en/expid/basics-food-allergy-intolerance/http://kidshealth.org/kid/ill_injure/sick/food_allergies.htmlhttp://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=40649http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/pubs/allergy.pdf

Breastfeeding Education: Upon request, a compilation of breastfeeding education and support resources in the community will be provided or you can research the following resources:

Breastfeeding Resources:Statewide Toll-Free Number: 1-855-550-6667 (MOMS)Cheryl Heymans, IBCLC/RLCSpecial AdditionPhone 1: 512-326-9308Email: cheymans@austin.rr.com

Kristine Kovach, IBCLCSeton SouthwestPhone 1: (512) 603-7967Email: kkkovach@seton.org

Angela Fritsch, BS, IBCLC, RLCAustin/Travis County WIC Program - Mom's PlacePhone 1: 512-972-6862Email: angela.fritsch@austintexas.govWebsite: http://www.momsplace.org

I.C. Suzanne Trtunick, MA, IBCLCPeople's Community ClinicPhone 1: 512-864-1744Email: suzannet@austinpcc.org

Krisdee DonmoyerKeep Austin Nursing in Public Phone 1: 5126559647Email: krisdeejean@gmail.comWebsite: http://www.KeepAustinNIP.comWebsite 2: http://www.Facebook.com/KeepAustinNIP

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS If parents wish to celebrate a child’s birthday at the Center, they may bring party supplies, cake, cupcakes, cookies, cookie cake, etc... for celebration during child’s p.m. snack time. ALL FOOD ITEMS MUST BE STORE BOUGHT WITH FOOD LABELS ATTACHED , NO HOMEMADE ITEMS. Put the child’s name on the item and drop it off in the kitchen. NO PARTIES ON FRIDAYS-DUE TO JUICE-POP DAY.Please advise the office staff in advance. Thank you.

HEALTH CARE POLICY:

Our health policy has been established by First Step to exceed the standards for childcare centers set by the Texas Department of Human Services. The purpose of the health policy is to protect the health and wellbeing of all the children and staff.All children receive a daily health check upon arrival at the Center. This health check will be performed by one of the Center’s teachers. The purpose of the health check is to determine if the child is healthy enough to stay at the Center. Information about

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the child’s health that could be helpful should be shared with the teacher at this time. The health check is talking to the child, maybe even hugging the child, this enables the teacher to see any rashes, feel the child if he/she may have fever and the look of the eyes will tell a lot if a child is not feeling well. If the child seems to have fever, we will check the child’s temperature before the parent leaves. If he/she is running a temperature or shows other signs of illness or other contagious conditions he/she will be sent home with the parent, and must be symptom free for 24 hours without medication, no exceptions. A doctor’s note will not allow for return, the 24 hour grace period still applies.

If your child is injured, an incident report is filled out by the staff in charge and the parent must sign it so the staff member can turn it into the office. If your child is sent home due to illness, an illness report will be filled out for the parent to sign and turned into the office. Then, the child will not be able to return until all symptoms are gone and time is met on regulations….see below!

GUIDELINES FOR SENDING A CHILD HOME: The parent must arrive to pick up the child within 1 hour of being notified.FEVER:1. If a child has: (a) an oral temp of 101.0, or (b) a rectal temperature of 102.0 (c) armpit temperature of 100.0 the parent will

be notified. Our school always uses the armpit temperature….due to the type of thermometers used. The parent will be contacted to pick up the child and contact a physician.

a. Chicken pox : slight fever, fine blisters appearing on scalp, face, or body.b. Diarrhea: increase or change in child’s usual bowel movement pattern (two loose, watery stools is usual criteria;

however, one loose, watery stool over a period of days usually indicates some type of medical problem.)c. German measles : slight head cold. Swollen glands at back of neck.d. Hand, foot, and mouth disease : fever, sores and blisters on the hands, feet, and in the mouth. A viral infection.e. Measles : Runny nose, watery eyes, high fever and cough. Blotchy rash on body.f. Mumps : Pain in cheeks. Swelling over jaw and on front of ear.g. Pink eye : Red eyes, discharge from eyes, crusted eyelids.h. Streptococcal infections : fever and sore throat.i. Scarlet fever : Fine red rash all over body, fever and sore throat.j. Body/hair lice : Little bugs on body, itchy scalp.k. Ringworm: itchy, scaly patches on scalp or body.l. Pin worms : Itchy Rectum, little white wiggling threads on child’s bottom or in stool.m. Impetigo : Small blisters that become crusted or contain pus.n. Vomiting : One instance of vomiting along with other symptoms, or two with no other symptoms, is the usual criteria for

sending a child home.o. Meningitis (viral): Usually produces fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, and a stiff neck.p. Meningitis (bacterial): Fever, headache, stiff neck, sore throat, and vomiting, often followed by respiratory illness, are

often the early symptoms of meningitis. In children up to age two, meningitis usually causes a fever, feeding problems, vomiting, irritability, seizures, and high-pitched crying.

q. Rashes and or sores : If rash occurs with fever, child is sent home. If rash and or sores occur with no other symptoms but continues for two days, child is sent home with a stipulation of seeing a physician. If rash and or sores have been diagnosed as not contagious, but seem to be worsening again, the child can again be sent home and asked to see a physician.

(Please note, these restrictions for sending a child home are subject to change for unforeseen circumstances) E.g. a pandemic

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GUIDELINES FOR RETURNING A CHILD TO THE CENTER

It is wise to keep children AT HOME until they are totally recovered from an illness. Returning the child too soon only increases his/her chances of becoming sick again since the immune system has been weakened.The following guidelines should be used to determine whether or not a child can return to the group care setting:

1. FEVER: Children sent home because of a fever may return 24 hours after the temperature has returned to normal without medication such as Tylenol or Motrin. Children sent home for illness who continues to exhibit symptoms must be symptom free and have waited at least the 24 hour grace period to return. For health and sanitation reasons, there are no exceptions to this policy. Obtaining a Dr’s return to school note will not be accepted if the 24 hour grace period has not taken place.1. Children sent home due to the following communicable diseases may return when:

a. Chicken Pox : Sores are dried up or crusted and not new blisters are appearing.b. Diarrhea : Symptoms are absent for 24 hoursc. German Measles : Rash has fadedd. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease : When fever is gone and sores/blisters have cleared.e. Measles : Rash had faded, and child is free of fever for 24 hours.f. Mumps : Swelling is gone.g. Pink eye : Redness or discharge disappears, must be on the eye drops 24 hours before returning, no

exceptions!h. Streptococcal Infections : 24 hours after antibiotic treatment has begun.i. Scarlet fever : 24 hours after antibiotic treatment has begun.j. Body/Hair Lice : After treatment with medicated shampoo according to directions and no lice or nits remain.

The condition must be closely monitored for ten days; treatment must be repeated to insure success.k. Ringworm : After medication has begun and sores are covered, unless otherwise instructed in writing by your

child’s physicianl. Pinworms : After nails are cut. Return the day after treatment begins.m. Impetigo : After medicine is given and sores are covered.n. Vomiting: no vomiting w/in last 24-hour period o. Meningitis (viral) : Several days after onset of illness.p. Meningitis (Bacterial) : 24 hours after release from hospital (with antibiotics given prior to hospital release).q. Rash and/or Sores : After rash and/or sores have cleared

(Please note, these restrictions for when a child can return to school are subject to change for unforeseen circumstances. E.g. a pandemic)

IMMUNIZATIONS

Children must receive all required immunizations prior to admission. Health records signed by a physician must be on file before the child can attend. No shots, no school. We do not enroll students who do not consent to immunizations. This is for the safety of the child and the other children as well.

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We must have a copy for the child’s school file BEFORE they may be in attendance. If your child is behind on immunizations, First Step cannot accept children who are not up-to-date on immunizations unless an appointment card is on file stating the upcoming appointment to obtain the missing shots. The parent is however, responsible for tuition during this time. If your child was behind on shots, or never received immunizations and is on a different schedule, we must have a note from the doctor stating this and the revised schedule.

The required immunizations are: Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Measles, Mumps and Rubella, Varicella (chicken pox), PCV7.

**Please note Tuberculin testing is not currently required in Hays County.**

The following schedule is suggested for routine children’s immunizations: Minimum Standard 746.3609

Age Immunizing Agent2 months 1st Polio,1st Hib, 1st DTP, 1st HepB, 1st PCV4 months 2nd Polio, 2nd Hib, 2nd DTP, 2nd HepB, 2nd PCV6 months 3rd DTP, 3rd PCV, 3rd Hib12 months MMR, Varicella, 4th PCV15 months 3rd Hib or completed series18 months 3rd HepB,3rd Polio, 4th DTP2 years HepA2 ½ yrs 2nd Hep A4 years 2nd MMR, 5th DTP, Varicella4 years Hearing and Vision Screening

AT THE AGE OF 4, ALL CHILDREN MUST HAVE AN ANNUAL HEARING AND VISION SCREENING. A COPY OF THE RESULTS MUST BE TURNED IN TO THE DIRECTOR UPON COMPLETION OF THE SCREENINGS. THE FORM TO BE COMPLETED MAY BE OBTAINED IN THE OFFICE. These tests are performed at your child’s 4 year old well check.

INCIDENCE OF COMMUNICABLE DISEASESWe will keep you informed of incidents of communicable diseases at the Center through posted signs at the main entrance or via email. The nature of the disease and number of reported cases will be listed. Names of the individuals contracting the disease are considered confidential. Please note, we are only required to do this if it is a reportable disease listed by the health department.

EMERGENCIES AT THE CENTER & INCIDENT REPORTSChildren are by nature active, curious creatures. While every attempt is made to provide a safe environment, the nature of a good children’s program means that accidents or injuries may occur as children play and explore their environment. If children are involved in a situation that results in one child being hurt, the identity of the other child(ren) will not be given. Incident reports will be completed by the teacher in charge and will given to the parents to read and sign. Please note we are only required to provide incident reports to the parents if they require a doctor’s visit. However, we like to inform parents of every incident that occurs. So, if it seems there are a lot of reports, it is because we like to keep the families updated on injuries as much as possible. We do the best we can but sometimes, but we do not see everything that occurs. If First Step School staff feel that the parents should be informed about the injury, a phone call or an email may be sent before the parents arrive.

In case of critical illness or injury during Center hours, the child’s parents, and physician and or 911 will be contacted immediately.

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If it is serious enough, an ambulance will transport your child to the emergency room. Then, the parents will be notified after emergency calls are made to EMS.

FIELD TRIPS:

The children in the 3’s and 4/5 year-old classroom and older do go on rare field trips. A permission slip must be signed for each child to attend. The staff will have a list of all children attending, emergency medical forms and a first aid kit while on the trip. Every child must wear a nametag or other identification listing the name and phone number of the center. Staff must have cell phone, radio or an alternate communication device at the field trip. All our staff members are trained in first aid and CPR and rescue breathing/choking so there will always be trained staff on the field trip.Parents will always be notified of the trip, the time we will leave and the time we will return. This is done by field trip notice forms hanging near the exit door of the center. Supervision on trips are followed by the minimum standard staff child ratios and sometimes far exceed the minimum. Positive choices and outcomes are important when deciding if a child can attend. Safety is our upmost concern while on field trips and if there is a child that who is misbehaving at school, they may not attend the field trip because negative behaviors take attention away from the other students, causing unsafe conditions. Children must also learn that there are consequences for the choices that they make.

GUIDELINES FOR ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATIONIn Texas, the administration of medicine is a VOLUNTARY procedure for childcare personnel

1. If any center agrees to administer medications, the center must administer the medication as follows:a. Prescription medications must be in the original container labeled with the child’s name, date,

directions, and physician’s name. The date the medication is brought into the center must be written on the outside of the container. The center must not administer medication after the expiration date.

b. All medications must be accompanied by a completed medication form that the center provides. Form must be filled out and previewed by teacher.

a. A new form must be filled out each week. Every medication authorization form will expire each Friday. So if the child is taking for a longer time, a new form must be filled out on Monday.

b. When to give- We require a set time of day. Every 4 hours or as needed is not acceptable. (This rule provides an assurance that child can never be given too little or too much medication.)

c. The center must ensure that nonprescription medicine is labeled with the child’s name and the date the medicine was brought to the center. Nonprescription medication must be in the original container. The center must administer it according to the label directions. The center must document each dose of medication administered showing the child’s name, date, time, and amount administered, and the full name of the staff administering the medicine.

d. The first/initial dose of the medication must be given at home so the child can be monitored for allergies.

2. The center must keep medications out of children’s reach which is our medicine shelf. There is one in every classroom. Parents are responsible for taking medication out of the bag and placing on medicine shelf and filling out medicine form completely and correctly. Leaving medicine in the bag could be very dangerous if a child digs in the bags hanging in the cubbies. DO NOT LEAVE MEDICATION IN BACKPACKS AT ANYTIME!!!

3. The center must keep medication requiring refrigeration separate from food.pg. 39

The center must return medication, when no longer needed, to the child’s parent. If it is not taken home within 2 days, we will properly dispose of the medication. The center must dispose of medications when a child withdraws from the center or when the medicine is out of date.

4. Over-the-Counter medicines can be given for the amount of days instructed on the label without a doctor’s approval. After that, parents must supply a physician’s note for medication to continue.

5. MORE ON MEDICATION: Medication does not have to be given at a childcare center. In fact, a lot of centers do not offer this option. In fact, it is such a huge liability that most discourage centers from administering. We only offer this service for the convenience of our families. However, if a medication is prescribed for only once or twice a day, we will not administer the medication as parents can arrange for this to be done at home. When administering medication, the instructions must be very precise, clear, and strict. This is only for the safety of the child and First Step School staff. If you do not want to abide by the rules in place, please do not send your child the day that he/she is taking medication or arrange your schedule so you can come administer the medication.

6. ALL MEDICINE THAT DOES NOT SPECIFICALLY GIVE THE DOSAGE ON THE CONTAINER CANNOT BE ADMINISTERED BY FIRST STEP STAFF UNLESS WE HAVE A DOCTORS NOTE WITH THE DOSAGE. For example, if Tylenol or Motrin says “consult a doctor” under the age of 2, then you must provide dosing instructions from your child’s pediatrician. In this case, the medication form must be accompanied by a note from your child’s doctor listing the appropriate dosage and frequency. You may want to keep this in mind when purchasing over-the-counter medication for your child. This really is for protection of the child not to be overdosed.

FIRST FRIDAY DRESS-UP:

Every first Friday of the month, all students (including infants) and teachers are invited to dress-up. The themes are handed out at the beginning of each year and are posted in the school at the parent’s nook if you need a copy. The schedule is planned for the year to allow parents and teachers time to prepare for their monthly costumes/dress-up.

ANIMALS:

We do currently have animals at First Step. The animals vaccination records are in the office and are checked upon DFPS inspections. All visiting animals such as dogs, cats and ferrets have been vaccinated and have files in Tina’s office. The animals are free of any diseases and have health statements from a local veterinarian. The school dog (GUS) on campus is child-friendly and only has access to the office area, unless he is monitored by a staff member to another location.

Children cannot have contact with chickens, ducks, and reptiles like snakes, turtles, lizards, iguanas and frogs or toads. The playground is free of animals unfamiliar to the center. If stray animals come on campus, we try to get them to leave and if the attempt is unsuccessful, we will call the local animal control.

FIRST AID AND EMERGENCY CARE:

In the case of an emergency situation, first aid procedures of the American Red Cross will be followed. All staff are First Aid and CPR certified. All staff are also trained in rescue breathing and choking for infants, children, and adults. If we feel more serious attention is needed, 911 will be notified immediately then parents to follow. If the situation is not serious enough for 911 to be called but needs attention, the parent will be notified immediately or looked at by a teacher or director and notified if symptoms show up later in the day during the monitoring period. Sometimes symptoms take a while to be visible. Therefore, if an injury pg. 40

happens, the teacher/office staff will check the child out, if there are no visible injuries, it may be that the child shows no distress or favoritism to an injured area until later. If at anytime injuries seem to appear from an earlier incident, the parents will be called, asked to come examine their child and complete a parent examination form.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE:

If a problem with the Center comes up, the parent should talk about it with the appropriate staff person. Concerns about children or a child’s teacher should first be discussed with the teacher. If this does not take care of the matter, it is then discussed with Administrative Personnel, and finally with the Director if necessary. All administrative questions/concerns regarding center policy, and concerns regarding payment must always be directed to the office.

Parents discussing concerns about staff, routines, payments, children, etc. can result in termination of services. Remember that not all statements, conversations, are true and some are taken out of context. Therefore, if you ever have a problem, questions, concerns, please stop by the office or email us for clarification. Discussing employee terms such as wages, benefits, children, etc. can result in job/childcare termination.

NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT:

The First Step, Inc. is in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Public Law 94-135), and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (Public Law 93-112). This is an equal opportunity program. No person, in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, beliefs or religion, be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or otherwise subjected to discrimination.

SUPPPLY LIST FOR ALL AGESALL BELONGINGS MUST HAVE FIRST AND LAST NAME OR LAST INITIAL!

INFANT (2 WEEKS-11 MONTHS) Wipes clearly labeled with child’s first and last name) Large bag of diapers (labeled on outside of package) ---refrain from bringing a small amount each day Any ointment or powder, labeled (if used) Bottles already prepared with formula and water/breast milk All bottles must have caps (labeled with child’s name) All bottles/cups must be labeled with the child’s first and last name or last initial Diaper bag Extra change of clothes for the correct weather Jar food or box of cereal (when child starts to eat), clearly labeled with child’s name 1 box of Kleenex (each year) Water cup/bottle EVERYDAY labeled with your child’s first and last name or last initial. Take home daily to be washed. Pacifier (optional) labeled with child’s name

TODDLER (12 MONTHS- 35 MONTHS) Wipes (clearly labeled with child’s first and last name) Large bag of diapers (if used) (labeled on outside of package) Any ointment / powder (if used) labeled One no-spill cup & extra milk(1 liter) to refill cup (if you just bring 1 cup). Please refrain from juice. One water cup labeled with the child’s name

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All cups/containers must be labeled with first and last name or initial- 1 container may be brought and not any bigger than the size of 1 liter due to lack of space in the refrigerator.

Backpack or bag with first and last name Extra change of clothes in bag at all times, pack according to weather Purchase of the meal program Disposable Bibs or you can purchase form the school for $5 per month (no re-useable bibs) Travel size Blanket and travel size pillow, pillowcase (all 3 labeled with first and last name) TAKE HOME FRIDAY TO WASH Sun block (optional, sunblock will only be applied to your child if you bring some to school). 1 Box of Kleenex (each year) Sports water bottle EVERYDAY labeled with your child’s name (NO SIPPY CUP) Bug spray (optional)

PRESCHOOL (3-5+ YEARS) Purchase the meal program Backpack with name Extra change of clothes, packed according to weather Travel size blanket, travel size pillow and pillowcase (all 3 labeled with first and last name). Take home every Friday to be washed. There is a water fountain in each room and outside so children have access to water throughout the day. 1 box of Kleenex (each year) Sun block (optional, sunblock will only be applied to your child if you bring some to school).

Sports water bottle EVERYDAY labeled with your child’s name (NO SIPPY CUP). Take home daily to be washed. Bug spray (optional)

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PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN NEW ENROLLMENT ORTIENTATION FORM TO DIRECTOR WHEN ENROLLMENT PAPERS ARE DUE!!!! YOU MAY KEEP THE HANDBOOK FOR FUTURE

REFERENCE