Parents' Handbook

As of 03/28/2023, this page is under daily construction at the moment.

Field Trip Waivers Online

Welcome

Welcome to Panda Cub House Childcare Centre! This handbook is intended to answer any questions you may have about our Center. Please let us know if we missed anything.

Panda Cub House Land Acknowledgement

We humbly acknowledge that we are settlers here on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional meeting grounds, gathering place, and traveling route to the Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Métis, Dene and Nakota Sioux. We acknowledge all the many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, whose footsteps, culture, knowledge and history have marked these lands for centuries. This is the land that we inhabit, we are only here because of Treaty. We are all treaty people.

Panda Cub House Commitment to Truth and Reconciliation

Panda Cub House commits to supporting Indigenous children, youth, and families in the communities we serve. We commit to creating equitable spaces for Indigenous staff, partners, and community members. We call for an end to the systemic inequities faced by Indigenous communities. We stand for Truth and Reconciliation.

We acknowledge that Indigenous peoples have suffered under colonial and postcolonial policies. We believe that to work respectfully with Indigenous nations, our staff needs to be aware of the collective impact that intergenerational trauma continues to have on Indigenous children, youth, and families.

We need to learn and understand our shared history in a way that moves us towards a stronger and healthier future, with relationships rooted in mutual understanding and respect. We know that by supporting Indigenous young people, we strengthen society overall. We also know that our ability to provide transformative spaces and meaningful opportunities for Indigenous and non-Indigenous young leaders to forge new pathways together is a crucial contribution to Truth and Reconciliation.

We are guided by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which establishes the individual and collective rights of Indigenous peoples and protects them from discriminatory policies and practices.

We are also guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s final report, and in response to their Calls to Action, we will:

Build knowledge and awareness of Truth and Reconciliation at Panda Cub House by offering learning/unlearning and capacity-building opportunities for leadership, staff, volunteers, and members (children, youth, and families) that will increase understanding of Indigenous peoples, cultures, languages, communities, histories, the impact of colonial actions, intergenerational trauma, and the role that we can play in walking the path of Reconciliation (TRC Calls to Action 92iii and 62i).

Seek meaningful and sustained relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations locally, based on equality, good faith, and mutual respect, to work collaboratively towards equitable, accessible, and culturally relevant and responsive services for Indigenous children, youth, and families (TRC Call to Action 66).

Mission Statement

Panda Cub House Childcare Centre is partnered with parents, educators, and the community. We exist to provide a safe, developmentally appropriate environment for preschool and school age children. The basis of our program is creating an educational learning through play environment. Our focus is to provide a stimulating early care and education experience, which promotes each child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Our goal is to support children's desire to be life-long learners within a multicultural, diverse, and stimulating childcare setting.

Program Philosophy

At Panda Cub House Childcare Centre we believe in the delivery of a high-quality childcare program in support of families within a multicultural community interested in the well being of children. The program is geared towards providing the maximum opportunity for the child to develop in all areas of growth: physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually. The center provides a safe nurturing environment for each child and acts as a supplement by providing loving care and protection similar to what their parents provide. All interactions between staff and children and their families are guided by mutual respect for individuals and their special qualities. Our program is intended to give the children awareness of their feelings and a means for expressing those feelings by the use of free choice and educational programming. Thus, providing an environment where the child learns to share and reflect on the needs and concerns of others. The program provides individual attention to each child’s strengths and needs and provides an opportunity to participate in the decision making process: to change the physical environment, decide where to go on fieldtrips, decide how food will be served or to plan his or her own part in the center. Children are also encouraged to have a sense of autonomy and responsibility using a child-centered focus. Furthermore, we also encourage parental participation or involvement in all aspects of the program. The staff set the stage carefully in this program, and then act as a resource to the children rather than initiator of the program. It is our belief that children need love and nurturing, in order for them to grow and become successful individuals in life.

Hours of Operation

Panda Cub House Childcare Centre is open year-round from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. We are closed on statutory holidays. A posted notice on the parent information board in the front hall or in the doorway entry will inform you of specific closure days. Closure Days are also posted on all of our social media platforms. However, we are also extremely busy cleaning, sanitizing, and getting the centre ready for the next operation day from 5:15PM to 6:00PM.

Our Staff

The staff at Panda Cub House Childcare Centre is qualified, as required by Provincial Staff Qualifications. We are a family run business and our passion is to provide quality education and care for children while promoting self-esteem and empathy towards others. Our goal is to take an educational approach to childcare while creating opportunities for developmental growth of children through play and theme based activities. All staff have their Child Development Assistant, Child Development Worker or Child Development Supervisor Certification, and have recent police/security clearance checks, and are trained in Child Care First Aid & CPR. The experience & knowledge of the staff at Panda Cub House Childcare Centre comes together to create an enriching learning environment for your child.

Tour Availability

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, NO THURSDAYS as Thursdays are field trip days.

9:00AM to 11:30AM OR 2:30PM to 4:00PM

15 - 30 minute time slots

Tour Checklist

Choosing a childcare is a very important decision for any caregiver. You want to ensure you find a safe, healthy environment where your child will be free to grow and develop! Here are some things we will cover:

Learning Environment

1. What are the hours of operation?

2. What days each year does PCH close?

3. What is the minimum number of days required for care?

4. Does PCH appear clean and inviting?

5. Does PCH charge late fees?

6. What are PCH's health and safety policies?

7. Are the learning materials kept in good condition?

8. Does PCH have access to an outdoor play area?

9. What is the inclement weather policy?

10. Does PCH have an open door policy for caregivers to visit?

11. Is any food provided? If so, ask for a copy of the menu and how often it changes.

12. How does PCH accomodate for allergies?

Curriculum

1. Are transition days provided?

2. Are there age-appropriate toys thast allow for learning and play?

3. What types of specific programs are offered? (such as Literacy, Art, Physical Education, Second Languages, etc.)

4. Does PCH offer a Montessori program?

5. Does PCH offer a Kindergarten program?

6. Ask to see a daily schedule for each age group.

7. Are developmental assessments completed?

8. Does PCH host parent/teacher meetings?

Health & Safety

1. Do teachers and children wash their hands before and after changing diapers and going to the bathroom?

2. Are medications stored securely where wchildren cannot access them?

3. Are all learning environmentsd and materials safe and secure?

4. Do teachers have training in First Aid?

5.What is the incident reporting procedure?

6. How will you be advised of any urgent updates in the event of an emergency?

Teachers

1. What are the qualifications for the Director, Assistant Director, and Teachers?

2. What are the child-to-teacher rations in each classroom?

3. Observe teachers in the classroom. Do they appear engaged, involved, and sensitive to the needs of the children of different ages?

4. Does PCH have daily reports? How will you be informed on your child's progress each day?

5. Are developmental assessments completed? How often?

Parental / Guardian Agreement with PCH Policies and Procedures

I grant permission to this facility to provide care for my child.
Hours of Operation are from 7:00 AM to 6:00PM.
My child will stay for a maximum of 10 hours at the facility during their daily stay.
Dropping-off should not be later than 9:00AM, unless the Director is notified 24 hours ahead of time.
My child will be dropped off at _______________ and will be picked up at _______________.
This facility will not be responsible for anything that may happen as a result of information given at time of enrolment.
Notification must be given to this facility of any changes in my child’s registration form.
My child will not be released to anyone other than those authorized on the registration form. If another individual is to pick up my child, the facility must be given written notice in advance for at least 1 day. *Picture ID or Government ID is required. This is for my child’s protection.
The Director will be notified as soon as possible if my child will not be attending his/her regular time-frame.
I grant permission for my child to use all the play equipment and participate in all of the activities of the facility.
I grant permission for my child to leave the facility under the supervision of staff members for fire drills, walks, sledding, etc. A consent form will also be provided for field trips.
Weather-permitting, outdoor play is part of the facility’s daily program. I will ensure that my child is sent with proper clothing and apparel. A complete change of clothing is to be left at the facility.
I grant permission for photos of my child to be taken. These photos will be used only for the facility’s purposes, such as: its updates on its social media platforms, and arts and crafts. In no way will the photos be used to malign my child’s right to privacy and confidentiality.
Should my child become sick and have a contagious disease, I will make alternate arrangements for his/her care. This is done so that my child can recover quickly and to protect the other children, as well as, staff in the facility.
Should my child become ill during the day, I will be contacted to pick up my child. If I am unable to do so, I will be responsible to make alternate arrangements. I will notify the Director of any alternate plans.
No child will be accepted into the facility if he/she has any communicable or contagious disease of any kind.
A medication form must be completed and signed by parent/guardian and on file prior to the facility administering any medication.
I grant permission for PANDA CUB HOUSE CHILDCARE STAFF to take whatever steps are necessary to obtain emergency medical treatment if warranted. These steps may include, but are not limited to the following:
Attempting to contact person or guardian
Attempting to contact child’s physician
Take the child to the emergency hospital in the company of a staff member. All costs associated will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian.
A full month’s fee must be paid regardless of sickness or holidays. Fees are due on or before the 1st day of every month. We reserve the right to increase fees after one month’s notice. The facility willterminate its services to your child for non-payment.
A $45 Non-Sufficient Funds charge may be applied when appropriate.
The facility requires one month’s written notice upon withdrawal of my child. In lieu of one month’s written notice, a fee of one month will be charged per child. Should legal action be required, all fees will be my responsibility.
PANDA CUB HOUSE reserves the right to provide and/or accept families and their child(ren) for a duration of a 1-month TRIAL PERIOD; hence, Panda Cub House and/or vice versa, the families and their child(ren), reserves the right to terminate services for whatever reason(s) listed – BEFORE the 1-month trial period ends, without any penalty from either parties: to commence starting on the 1st DAY of the child(ren) at our childcare facility.
The facility will use due care in caring for my child and his/her effects; however, the facility will not be responsible for any loss of possession, any injury, accident, sickness, or disease that may occur to my child while in their care (except for gross negligence).
The facility reserves the right to terminate immediately the enrollment agreement and application of my child who has caused the disruption of the progress of the facility’s program.
I will promptly communicate to Director whatever concerns or suggestions I may have.
I will not let my child wear any piece of jewelry (fancy or real) inside the childcare facility. The facility will not be responsible for its loss.
For Out-of-School Care: I will not send my child to the center, if there is NO class except for a 1 day PD Day.
I have received, read, and understood, and I agree to what are stated in the Parent’s Handbook.

Fees Policy

Monthly fees are set according to the fee schedule in effect, and the age group being contracted for. Fees are due on the first of each month. Fees remain in effect regardless of absences due to illness or vacation. There is an additional cost of $10.00 per child, per day, by 12:00AM of the 2nd of each month for late payment of fees. Non-payment of fees will result in immediate dismissal from the Centre. The current bank charge will be applied for any NSF or returned cheque plus a $25.00 handling fee.

A onetime non-refundable registration fee of $100.00 is charged to every new parent that registers their child into our center. This fee covers the cost of all new materials that will be used to secure a spot for your child including blankets, nap coverings, craft supplies, baskets for their cubby etc. This fee also ensures that a spot will be held in our center for your child.

Fees also apply if you pick your child up after 6:00 pm. A $1.00 for every one (1) minute after 6:00 pm will be charged. These fees help to cover overtime wages for staff that remain to care for your child.

Subsidy is available for families who meet the criteria. If you have applied for subsidy & are not yet approved, half of the monthly fee will be charged until approval is obtained. You will be credited for the following month, as applicable. It is your responsibility to keep your subsidy up to date. If your subsidy expires & you do not renew it on time, you will be responsible for the full, non-subsidized fee. If your subsidy is renewed & backdated, your parent-portion will be credited.

Panda Cub House Childcare Centre requires parents to provide one month’s written notice of their intention to withdraw their child/ren from the centre. Parents will be responsible for paying the full month’s fee if less than one month’s written notice is not given. In the case of subsidized families, parents will be responsible for the FULL monthly parent fee if they choose to leave and the centre does not receive the fee from the subsidy office.

Please note that notice MUST be in writing. Simply informing a staff member of your intentions to remove your child/ren from care is NOT sufficient and will not be accepted. Panda Cub House Childcare Centre requires a written note stating your intention to cancel enrollment, the child/ren’s name/s, the date you expect to leave and the notice must be signed and dated. This will provide clear intentions and dates allowing us to move forward and fill the available space/s.

How To Pay

1. We also accept INTERAC EMAIL TRANSFER to: pandacubcare@gmail.com Please inquire with the director how to proceed with this option. If you're unsure about how to use this feature, please kindly refer to the following link: http://www.interac.ca/en/interac-etransfer/about-interac-etransfer

2. We accept PERSONAL CHEQUES payable to: PANDA CUB HOUSE CHILDCARE CENTRE LTD.

Disclaimer

Panda Cub House Childcare Centre Ltd. reserves the right, at our discretion, to modify, amend, add or remove portions of these terms and conditions at any time, without prior notice. In the event that any changes are made, the revised terms and conditions shall be posted on this website immediately. Please check the latest information posted herein to inform yourself of any changes, or simply call the Director.

What To Bring for the 1st Day:

Dear Panda Parents,

Please provide your child, and label everything with his/her name, with the following:

A Family Picture (for your child’s room – pinned on the bulletin board)
1 Portrait Picture of only the student’s face (for his/her cubby ID)
Outdoor and indoor shoes
1 extra clothing for emergency use – to be placed in a backpack
Swimsuit/ Swim trunks
Feeding bottles/sippy cup
Milk
Diapers and cream (approximately 3-4 diapers per day for a week)
Wipes
Sunscreen
Bug spray

We provide 2% and 3.25% homo milk. If you are using a different kind of milk, please send it to the daycare everyday. In addition, we currently do not serve HOT LUNCH. At the moment, we are only serving a morning snack and an afternoon snack. Please kindly make sure to pack enough lunch for your child.

Thank you,

Panda Cub House Family

Child Guidance Policy

Please note that this policy applies to the Toddler, Preschool, Kindergarten and Out-ofSchool Care age groups.

Panda Cub House Childcare Centre provides a safe environment in which children are expected to be respectful of themselves, others, belongings & property. Providers must help children feel secure and loved, by teaching them appropriate behavior management. Behavior management is the process by which a child is guided and encouraged to act in appropriate ways. Appropriate behavior management is used to guide, protect, and enhance self-esteem. Both preventive and intervention strategies are used to encourage positive behavior. Preventive methods begin with role modeling by the caregivers—when caregivers are polite to, and understanding of others, they lead by example for everyone in the centre. The caregivers must also recognize individual needs, levels of development, family experiences, and cultures in order to encourage appropriate behavior. Consistency is the key when explaining logical consequences and setting limits.

Staff will assist all of the children in dealing with their frustrations in a positive and constructive manner. We strive to create an environment that fosters positive social behaviors, which is accomplished by these positive and preventative strategies:

- Use positive statements with children, directing them as to what they can do instead of what not to do.

- Provide appropriate choice opportunities to encourage independent decisionmaking.

- Provide logical and natural consequences to actions and choices.

- Model appropriate ways of interacting.

- Model/teach problem solving skills.

- Involve children in establishing classroom rules and giving them ownership of logical and simple rules.

- Provide positive reinforcement for acceptable behavior.

- Be an active listener.

- Anticipating problem situations before they occur and making necessary changes.

- Structuring the environment by providing curriculum that is interesting, and stimulating for the children.

- Providing predictable guidelines and routines, and appropriate spaces for productive play.

- Giving a few minutes advance notice before changing activities.

When unacceptable behavior occurs, the following intervention strategies are implemented, not necessarily in order. At all times the child’s dignity is kept intact:

o Redirect children to acceptable options when engaged in an unacceptable activity.

o Gaining the child’s attention in a respectful way, such as eye level contact.

o Asking the child to try to use their words to explain how they feel about the situation.

o Gently reminding children of classroom rules.

o Moving close to the situation helps the child re-establish self-control.

o Acknowledging the child’s feelings.

o Asking the children what they think would solve the problem, giving suggestions and modeling problem solving skills as necessary.

o Redirecting the child to another activity, removing the play option.

o Directing the children to a place where they can “re-group”.

o Providing opportunities for the child to make amends.

Please note that Panda Cub House Childcare Centre holds a zero tolerance policy regarding violent behavior. Kicking, hitting, biting, pinching, etc. is not allowed, and will result in immediate removal from the group or activity. Continued violent behavior will result in termination from Panda Cub House Childcare Centre, after discussion with the child’s parents.

INFANT GUIDANCE POLICY

Our goals for infants are the same as for other children in the centre: to develop the behavior necessary for successful living, including self-control, and self- discipline. Due to age and stage of understanding, strategies used in the infant room will vary somewhat from those indicated above. No infant "acts up" on purpose. Infants often communicate their needs through crying. Therefore, staff must listen and watch for crying or other cues to evaluate the needs of the infant. Infants need to explore using their senses. They need to see, feel, taste, hear, and smell the world around them. Consequently, the staff will ensure that safe opportunities to discover their world are provided. At the same time, infants can be over-stimulated by too much noise, action or color. Therefore, it is also important for caregivers to engage in quiet time with infants whether it be holding them or rocking them in a rocking chair. It is typical for infants to experience separation anxiety or stranger anxiety, especially in the first weeks of care, staff members will likely need to spend a lot of time in close contact with infants in order for them to settle in. As well, the infant who is going through a stage where they are anxious around strangers will need additional attention when they are participating in playgroups or other activities. Infants are always talked to and encouraged in a positive manner. Staff will promote the use of eye contact and positive statements to promote learning and independence. Infants love to make messes, throw food, bang cups, and may even "explore" others through pinching, biting, and pulling hair. Occurrences of misbehavior are a very normal part of a child’s development. Positive child guidance requires the use of methods that guide rather than punish. The goal of discipline is to help children build their own self- control, not to have them behave through adult-imposed control. Redirection is a technique that is most effective if used in a way that maintains or enhances the child’s self-esteem.

Redirection

Infants are usually fairly easy to distract. Giving a child something interesting to look at or do will usually stop unwanted behavior. For instance, a staff member can redirect an infant who is throwing blocks, by sitting down on the floor with them to help them build a bridge or by giving them some direction to put the blocks into a basket or bin. A staff member can also remove an infant from a situation in which he or she may be harmed or may harm others. For instance, if an infant is biting or pulling another infant’s hair, the staff member can pick up the infant and redirect him or her to another activity.

Nutrition Program

Panda Cub House Childcare Centre provides a nutritious morning snack program and afternoon snack program at no additional cost. Although, we cannot force children to eat, children are encouraged to try each type of food in order to develop a taste for a variety of foods. We choose to try many different foods from many different cultures. You will need to send a lunch from home with your child. Please do not send gum or candy as we promote healthy choices for children. Menus for lunch are created with Canada’s Food Guide in mind. Portion control is practiced, in accordance with the Canada Food Guide. Every effort is made to ensure snacks are healthy and nutritious. The weekly menu is posted on the parent information board in the garage. If your child is an infant, it is your responsibility to supply their snacks. Children, as well as staff, must be calm and seated at the table before eating their snacks or meals. All children’s hands are washed before and after they eat snack and other meals. All of the dishes are returned to the kitchen for washing and sterilizing or sanitizing. All sippy cups, bottles, and water bottles are clearly labeled with each child’s name and are sent home with the child at the end of the day.

Illness Policy

If your child becomes ill while at the center, they will be isolated from the other children. A staff member will call you to arrange for your child to be taken home or to a doctor for a note confirming that your child is healthy & not contagious. If your child is school-aged, and they become ill while at school, you must pick your child up from school, and call the center to let us know that your child will not be in attendance. We do not allow children to come to the Centre from the school to await arrival of their parent. Your child will be excluded from the Centre if they display any of the following:

Ø Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, persistent pain

Ø Fever of 38°C or higher

Ø Infected discharge from the nose (yellow or green mucous)

Ø Persistent coughing (e.g. 3 – 5 times per hour)

Ø Communicable disease (pink eye, strep throat, etc).

Ø Unexplained tiredness that is not typical for the child

Ø Undiagnosed skin rash

Ø Head lice

Your child may return to the center when the symptoms subside for a period of 24 hours (without the use of Tylenol or related products), or when your child has received antibiotic therapy (if applicable) for 24 hours. In the case of vomiting or diarrhea, the symptoms must be gone for 48 hours before your child returns to the center. In the case of more serious illnesses (including but not limited to: chicken pox, measles, hand foot and mouth disease, etc.) your child may be required to be away from the centre for up to two weeks. The owners or directors will inform you of your required absence based on the illness and severity.

Panda Cub House Childcare Centre will keep on file: ü Your name, home and work number or any other number at which you can be reached.

- Name and phone number of a family member or friend who can be reached during the day and is prepared to pick up your child on short notice.

- Your child’s Alberta Health Care Insurance number.

- Name & phone number of your child’s family physician or pediatrician.

- Details of any chronic condition, allergies or illness and any special needs your child may have.

Prescription
Medication Policy

We cannot administer over-the-counter medication. If your child is sick enough to need medication, please use your best judgment if and when it is appropriate for your child to be at the centre so that we don't have to call you to come back and pick up your child. However, if your child is no longer showing any symptoms of sickness and is just drinking prescription medication already on the way to a speedy recovery, we can administer prescription medication to your child if you complete and sign the medication form that you can get from one of our teachers. If you do not complete (with a specific time of administration) and sign the medication form, the medication will not be administered to your child. The form must be filled out each day that you require a staff to administer medication to your child. The staff that administers the medication to your child will sign the form each time they give the medication to your child. All medication must be brought to the center in its original packaging and labels including dosing instructions with a copy of the prescription from the doctor. Medications will be stored in a lock-box in the top kitchen cupboard or in the kitchen refrigerator, if the medication requires refrigeration. The kitchen area is always monitored and children are not left unattended in the kitchen at any time. Medications will be returned to you when the authorization ends. Staff will monitor your child for any uncommon reactions to the medication after it is administered. All staff that administer medication have their first-aid certification.

Injuries OR Critical Illness

In the event of an emergency or medical crisis involving your child, the Director (or room staff in her absence) will notify you and if you cannot be reached, the emergency contact listed in your child’s file. If you or the emergency contact is not immediately available, or for serious incidents: emergency medical services will be initiated by staff. You are responsible for any costs incurred for an ambulance. The Director or room staff will transport your child to the nearest medical facility. The caregiver will keep in touch with you regarding your child’s condition. An Incident/Accident form will be completed by the attending staff member, it must be signed by you, and will be kept in your child’s file at the Center. We do not see every injury that the children receive, especially when a child doesn’t draw our attention to the injury. If you have concerns, please bring them to our attention. Emergency numbers are kept in each of the rooms and are kept in the center’s main office. When children and staff go outside, the cards in the rooms are taken out as well.

Biting

If biting occurs at Panda Cub House Childcare Centre a staff member will stop the action quickly and will tell the child that this is not acceptable behavior. The child that has been bitten will be given first aid and will be comforted. The parents of both children involved will be notified of the incident by the use of a written incident report. The identity of each child will be kept confidential. If any child is involved as a biter 3 times they may be removed from our program. This will be done on a case-to- case basis. Serious instances of more severe injuries will be judged on an individual basis and can lead to immediate removal from center. Our staff will work with all of the children to prevent biting.

Incident / Accident Reports

If your child requires first aid at the center at any time, or if an incident occurs that the staff thinks that you should be aware of, you will be required to sign an Incident/Accident Report. These reports will be kept in your child’s file.

Promoting A Safe & Healthy Environment

Center-Wide Policies:

1. The Center is inspected annually by the Health Inspector and for licensing renewal.

2. Monthly fire drills are practiced.

3. Children are supervised and accounted for at all times throughout the day by the use of sign-in sheets and head counts.

4. When staff is taking children outside, they take a list of names with them, and leave a list with all names with the daycare.

5. All appliances are kept in good repair.

6. Toxic materials are stored out of children’s reach.

7. The use of aerosols are avoided.

8. The use of pesticides are avoided. If necessary, pesticides are used only when the children are not present at the center and are used in a manner that their effect wears off before the children return. If this is not possible, children are kept away from where pesticides are used until the effect of the pesticide wears off.
9. Caregivers remove any safety hazards daily such as broken glass, toys or equipment, or report them to the Director.

10. Smoking is prohibited in the building at all times & outside when children are present. There is no smoking outside in the playground or in front of the daycare.

11. Weekly planning positively reflects diversity.

12. Photos of children are only taken & used with parental consent.

13. Daily use of videos is prohibited. Any videos used are previously viewed by staff to ensure that they are age appropriate, educational, and theme related. Children are supervised during periods of time when videos are used. Alternate activities for children not watching a video are always available.

Handwashing, Toileting, & Diapering

- Children wash their hands before and after lunch, snacks, and after toileting.

- Caregivers wash their hands before handling food, after toileting and after helping children with toileting, after handling toxic materials and after handling anything potentially infectious, such as nasal discharge, vomit, feces, wounds, infected eyes or after contact with animals.

- Diaper change surfaces are cleaned and sanitized after every use.

- Paper towels are kept in a dispenser near the sinks.

- Dirty diapers are wrapped tightly in a plastic bag and then put into closed garbage containers. These garbage bags are disposed of twice daily.

- Toilets sink faucets and door handles are sanitized at the end of each day.

Outdoor Play Space

- Outdoor play structures comply with CSA Standards.

- Outdoor play space is checked for safety hazards, and tidied of garbage immediately before the children use the space.

- Outdoor playground is protected by a six-foot wooden fence with a gate that is locked. The gate is always kept closed.

- No toxic plants grow in the outdoor play space.

- There is a shed that is used for storage of tricycles, little push toys, and trucks that children can ride.

Indoor Play Space

- No toxic plants are kept in the indoor play space.

- Garbage is kept in closed garbage containers and is disposed of twice daily.

- Cords to blinds are secured.

- Electrical outlets are covered with childproof outlet guards covers when not in use.

- Utensils and appliances are supervised at all times in the presence of children. Hot liquids are not allowed in the playrooms.

- Heating appliances and pipes are not accessible to the children.

- Children are permitted entrance to the kitchen only under supervision of a staff member. - Air Conditioning used as needed during the summer.

- Sinks and counter tops are kept tidy and clean.

- Play areas are brightly lit. Napping areas are dimly lit and calming music is played during nap time.

- Floors are swept and mopped after snacks and other activities. Carpet is vacuumed on a daily basis and as needed.

- Tables and chairs are sanitized before and after snacks and lunch or when having other activities at the table. They are also sanitized at the end of the day.

- Each child’s bed and blanket are labeled with his/her number and is stacked in separate bags so that each child’s bedding is kept separately.

- Bed covers and blankets are laundered weekly and the mat underneath is sanitized. - Cubbies are kept free of clutter and are labeled with each child’s name.

- Toys are washed routinely and also when they are rotated with other toys in that room.

- Each play room has its own toy cleaning checklist that must be dated and initialed by the staff member who cleans the toys and is double checked by the director.

- Sterilized play sand is used in the sand tables.

- Water tables are emptied, disinfected & refilled daily.

- Non-toxic, water-soluble art and craft supplies are used.

Child's Play Space

Our facility includes five spacious playrooms with bathroom access in each. We have a fully equipped kitchen and spacious outdoor play area that is larger than city and licensing requirements. Our license is issued to us based on the number of children, which may be accommodated in the measured area. We allow 3 square meters per daycare child and 2.5 square meters per Out-of-School Care child, not counting hallways, storage, space behind the doors, and kitchen or office space. This area unit is maintained at all times. During nap time, the children's beds are placed 0.5 meters apart for ample space.

Field Trips & Outings

- Field trips are a part of the Centre’s enhanced programming component for your child.

- The consent form must be signed by you if you would like your child to attend the field trip.

- Children are prepared before every outing: reminding them of the rules, the adults in charge and emergency procedures.

- Parents may be required to contribute to field trip costs.

- Parents are very welcome to accompany us on all field trips.

FIELD TRIP POLICY & PROCEDURES

In the event that the center will go on a field trip, the following procedures will be discussed and followed by all Staff and Volunteers participating in the Field Trip:

1. Staff will visit the site prior to taking the children to assess:

a. age/developmental appropriateness

b. washroom/water availability

c. telephone availability (cellular)

d. security personnel on site

e. check for any potential safety hazards

f. shaded rest area

g. wheelchair accessibility

2. Staff will choose a method of transportation:

a. public transportation - keeping in mind walking distance

b. walking ( only within the neighbourhood)

c. Esquire Limousine Service

d. Golden Arrow Yellow Bus Service

e. Staff will enforce car safety rules that comply with Transport Canada Guidelines

3. Preparing To Go and Things To Bring

3.1 The Center will only consider taking children that are below 3 years if the children have a private space that is gated, the space is child-proofed and padded, such as in TreeHouse.

3. 2 The Center will only consider taking children that are 3 years of age and older on off-site field trips with a maximum of 16 children attending the trip.

3.2.a. There will be an extra staff over the required ratio on all field trips.

4. When deciding on the number of volunteers, the lead Teacher will consider the following: a. the ages and the needs of the children involved

b. the type of activity

c. the environment in which the activity is taking place

d. any other relevant criteria

There will be a Day Care Staff leading each group and responsible for the safety and well-being of the children in each group.

Volunteers will not be left alone to supervise a group of children at any time. Volunteers will accompany and assist staff only. Each group will have a copy of the Field Trip Policy and Procedure as a reference.

5. Each Staff, Volunteer and child attending the trip will wear either a matching t-shirt or an identification tag with the name, address, and phone number of the Center.

6. Each child must have written parental permission before he/she can participate in the activity. The parent permission letter will include the destination, method of transportation, date, time of departure and return to the Center, supervision arrangements, requirement of appropriate clothing/ necessities such as sunscreen, hat, snow pants etc.

7. Teachers will inform the children where they are going and what will happen, whom they will see and who they will need to listen to. Enough information will be given to help the children feel secure and comfortable but not too much to spoil the experience.

8. Teachers will plan with the children and set up experiences in the Center that will enhance the field trip experience ie: begin a documentation panel, practice safety rules etc.

9. Safety rules will be discussed with the Staff, volunteers and children eg: designated meeting area, children must stay with the adult and group in which they were assigned. Only if ALL Staff and adults are aware, will a child switch groups. Attendance will be taken BEFORE the group leaves the Center.

10. All adults attending the trip will be equipped with either a cell phone or a two-way radio so if the group gets separated, adults can still communicate.

11. All Staff will have a valid First Aid Certificate, including those staying behind at the Center.

12. In case the groups get separated, each Staff responsible for a group will carry a backpack containing the following :

a. emergency medication ( if any required)

b. first aid kit

c. portable emergency information for both Staff and children.

d. emergency change of clothing

IN THE CASE OF A LOST CHILD

Staff will be prepared to do the following:

• Conduct a brief search of the immediate area - then get help from the nearest employee or security officer. Check the designated meeting place.

• Give a description of the child and the clothing he/she was wearing - show the photo of the child.

• Contact the police, parents and Day Care Licensing @ 780-427-0444

• Ensure the other children are safe and make a decision to remain on site or return to the Center. e. snacks, water, tissues (wipes), sun screen.

13. Staff remaining at the center will have a copy of ALL activity information including routes travelled and estimated time of arrival/departure. The field trip site will also have a copy of this information so that if the group does not arrive, they can notify the Center.

14.Upon arrival, Staff will :

• take attendance again

• visit the designated meeting place and review applicable safety rule

Staff will review the 4 guidelines to follow if someone gets separated from the group:

o stay put

o talk to a “safe adult”( store or park employees, security officers, police. Generally people who are wearing uniforms or badges).

o don’t go anywhere with someone you don’t know. ALL children will be accompanied by an adult when using the washroom.

o staff will take attendance regularly.

15. After the activity, teachers will follow-up by:

• listening and observing children while on the field trip - what are their questions and interests?

• planning related activities and learning experiences.

** Staff will have a backup plan in case the field trip is cancelled.

First Aid Training

- All staff has up-to-date Child Care First Aid & CPR Certificate.

- A fully equipped first aid kit is kept in every room.

- A first aid kit and emergency contact cards for each of the children are taken on all outings, including field trips, walks to and from the school and playtime in the playground.

Daily Routines

Each room has a daily routine which show how the children’s day is structured. These routines are used as guidelines that are flexible and adaptable to the children’s needs. The routines of each room are posted on a poster board inside the room. Weather permitting, outdoor play and exercise is part of every routine in the center. The children are able to enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and are able to develop their gross motor skills. You must send clothing that is suitable for the weather. Children are provided with a variety of activities to do outside. Push toys, tunnels, and fixed climbers are provided along with bikes and cars that can be ridden on or in. There are also a variety of different toys in the shed in the playground that are at the children’s disposal. There is also nearby playgrounds and parks that we walk to with the older children to ensure a diverse and enriching outdoor play experience. In the summer, indoor activities are often done outside if possible, books, blocks, art and manipulative toys are moved from inside to an outdoor shady area.

Water and sand play is also an integral part of the play at our center; we incorporate water and sand play into every day at the center.

Communication With Families

At Panda Cub House Childcare Centre we have an open door policy, parent and staff communication is extremely important for your child’s health and happiness. The only time we don't let anyone inside the centre other than staff members is between the hours of 11:30AM to 2:30PM as it is our nap time and during this time, the teachers take turns to take their breaks. Please speak to your child’s caregivers regularly to compare what is happening at home and at the centre. Parents are also very welcome to speak to the owners/directors if they have any questions, comments or concerns. It is imperative that we learn from each other. Parents are invited and encouraged to participate in the program by volunteering or visiting the center. Notices and special messages are posted in each of the rooms and as well as on the parent information board in the front hallway. Newsletters are distributed every three months (seasonally) or when there is an important notice. Please take the time to read the newsletters, as they contain important and informative information. New policies are often communicated via our newsletters and it is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with any new policies. The owners/director are often available throughout the day but if you have any questions, comments, concerns, or kudos you can contact them during regular office hours, Monday through Friday by calling (780) 475 – 0336. For more pressing concerns feel free to call at any time. Families that wish to have a tour of the center prior to enrolment must schedule an appointment, to ensure that all rooms remain in ratio during visits

Contact

When You Bring Your Child to the Center, Please:

1. Make sure your child is wearing comfortable, washable, play clothes. The children take part in daily activities that may involve paint, dirt, sand, glue, crayons, felts etc. While we use non-toxic, water-based arts and craft supplies, we cannot guarantee that everything that ends up on your child’s clothes will come out in the wash. If you don’t want a certain outfit to get dirty and possibly not come clean, do not send your child to the Center in that outfit.

2. Bring a complete change of clothing for your child, as well as outdoor clothing and footwear that are appropriate for the weather because we go out daily weather permitting. As well, messes are a normal part of a child’s development.

3. Bring a pair of indoor shoes; in order to keep the children’s play area clean. Outdoor shoes are not permitted in the center.

4. Leave all toys and other games at home (except for items we have asked to bring from home for instances such as show and tell which must be labeled clearly with the child’s name), as these often get misplaced by the child and may be difficult to find after the fact. Children can also bring books or other quiet activities from home for use if they do not nap. Panda Cub House Childcare Centre cannot be held responsible for lost or stolen items.

5. In the summer, send sunscreen, hat, water bottle, and insect repellent. In the winter, send boots, mittens, a hat, and snow pants.

6. Please send a supply of diapers and wipes if your child is still in diapers. Your child’s caregiver will notify you when your supply is almost depleted.

7. Send a nutritious packed lunch and snacks (we offer a morning and afternoon snack, but sometimes children prefer to have their own snack from home.)

8. Send a sippy cup with your toddler that is clearly labeled with his or her name. All dishes and sippy cups will be returned to your child’s lunch kit or backpack to be taken home and washed by you.

9. Please label all clothing and belongings so that we can make sure things get back into the proper backpacks!

We Expect Parents To:

1. Notify a staff member when your child arrives and when your child leaves the center. You must print the time you sign your child in and out (round to the nearest 5 minutes), and initial at the end of each day. In addition, at the end of each week you must sign your full signature. We use the attendance sheets as a part of our head-count process to ensure we account for all children in each room on a regular basis. Also, Alberta Children’s Services checks the attendance sheets during their monitoring visits, so we appreciate your help with ensuring everything is complete.

2. Please drop off/pick up your child during regular operating hours (7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.), call the center if you will be delayed. If your child is not picked up by 6:00 p.m. and we have not heard from you, staff will call the contact/emergency numbers on your child’s registration form. Any late pick-ups will be charged at the rate indicated in the fees section of this handbook.

3. Inform the director or your child’s caregiver if another person will be picking up your child. Children are not released to any person other than those indicated on the authorized pick-up list on the registration form. Please inform any new pick- up persons to bring a piece of picture I.D.

4. Let your child’s caregivers know of any situations at home that may cause your child to behave differently than usual (lack of sleep, parent out of town, death in the family).

5. Please notify the center if your child will be absent or arriving later than usual. It is very important that you drop your child off at the center before 10:00 am to account for lunch and staff ratios.

6. If your child will not be attending the center on any given day, please call us before 10:00 am. This allows for appropriate planning for lunch and staffing. On occasion, caregivers may take advantage of lower than expected attendance to take longer breaks or leave early. If you arrive late and haven’t advised us, we may be forced to turn you away if we do not have enough caregivers on site to accommodate the child-to-staff ratio required for your child’s age group.

7. If your child will be away from the center for an extended period of time, please let us know at least one week in advance. Fees remain in effect regardless of absences due to illness or vacation.

8. Please fill out all forms accurately so that we may reach you if necessary. It is very important that we are aware of any changes such as change in address, phone, emergency contact, etc.

Protocol for Handling
Child Abuse

Under the provision of the Child Welfare Act, any person who suspects, or is party to any conversation or behavior that leads them to suspect that a child may be abused or neglected, has a moral, ethical, and legal obligation to report the matter immediately to Child Welfare Services. The person does so by calling the district office of Children’s Services listed in the telephone directory under Government of Alberta, Family and Social Services or by dialing “0” and asking for the Child Abuse Hot Line. Further information is available in “Guidelines for Handling Child Abuse and Neglect in Day Care Services” published by Family & Social Services.

Emergency
Evacuation

Once a month, a surprise fire drill is conducted. The Childcare Educators assisted by other center staff have an established Evacuation and Fire Drill Procedure. At least once a year, an inspector from the City of Edmonton Fire Prevention Division checks that the drills are done on a monthly basis, that the correct procedures are followed, that the staff are aware of their duties, and that all electronics are functioning properly. In the case of an emergency evacuation we will immediately walk the children to Don Massey Elementary School. Parents will be contacted as soon as possible.

Termination of Enrolment / Withdrawal of Service

Should it appear that Panda Cub House Childcare Centre is not the center for your child, we will strive to help you and your child find alternate care. Please be assured that 1 month’s notice will be given if we are unable to provide services for your child. The registration fee of $150.00 will not be refunded.

Withdrawal from the Centre may happen because:

- The Parent of the child is voluntarily withdrawing them from the program;

- A child has reached the maximum age he or she can be at the Centre;

- He/she cannot adjust to the program;

- There is an accommodation shortage; or

- Required childcare fees have not been paid.

For all withdrawals, whether the Centre Director or the Parent makes the request, at least 1 month’s notice is required via email, call, text, letter, etc.

Withdrawal by Parent

If adequate notice is not received, payment of the full fees for the 1-month period will be required.

Withdrawal due to a Maximum Age Requirement

When a child reaches the maximum age that he/she can be in the program, the Director will notify the Parent of the date by which the child will be withdrawn.

Withdrawal due to Child's inability to Adapt to Program

Sometimes, children have difficulty adapting to the program or to the Centre's environment. If there is ongoing challenging behavior, we will work together to solve the situation. At times, we will refer to or involve other agencies for advice and assistance. If, however, the parents of a child exhibiting challenging behavior are not willing to work with the Centre to resolve the situation, or the child is putting himself/herself or others at risk, Panda Cub House will have no alternative but to give a notice of "withdrawal of services".

Withdrawal due to Accommodation Shortage

Each age group at the Centre is licensed by the Ministry of Education. Based on the availability of space at the time a child is moving into the next age group, there is no guarantee that the Centre will be able to accommodate him/her, depending on their individual needs.

In such instances, the Director will request that children be withdrawn from the program. The Centre will make every effort to ensure all children are accommodated and move from one age group to the next.

Withdrawal due to Unpaid Childcare Fees

Fees that are late will be subject to a late fee of $5.00 per day. If fees are one-week late, your childcare space may be at risk as your child may not be accepted until fees are received or withdrawal notice may be given.

Immediate Termination

Immediate termination from the Center will take place under the following circumstances:

- Abuse of any kind against staff or children in the center.

- Non-payment of fees. Immediate termination will take place after prior notice is given and the efforts to receive payment fail.

Thank you for registering your child with Panda Cub House Childcare Centre. Please let us know if you have any questions, or if you need further information. We look forward to lots of enjoyment and educational enrichment with your child!

Socks Only Facility

Panda Cub House Teachers work extremely hard to keep our centre clean, sanitized, and hygienic. Please kindly leave your outdoor shoes in our garage area and never bring them upstairs because our students walk and crawl up and down those steps and we need to keep our facility as clean as we possibly can. Thank you so much for your patience, understanding, and cooperation!

No Toys From Home

Panda Cub House has a STRICT “NO Toys From Home” policy. If a child comes to our childcare facility with any toy, one of our staff members will return it immediately to their backpack as soon as possible.

We do NOT allow any toys from home because of the following reasons:

More often than not, the children don’t like to share their toys which causes tensions and fights amongst each other.
Other parents feel pressured to buy the same toy as their friends because the children end up tantruming that they want to have the same exact toy as their friends.
Staff members are usually in ratio with the kids and we do not have extra manpower or enough time during the day to look for misplaced toys.

For these reasons, we ask parents to be as considerate as possible and avoid allowing your child to bring toys from home at all costs.

Panda Cub House staff members are not responsible for any missing/lost/misplaced or broken toys that belong to the child/children personally.

Cubby Change

The teachers at Panda Cub House Childcare Centre reserve the right to relocate children from one cubby to another.

Usually, we do so for the following reason:

We put similar ages of children beside each other so that the older and bigger children won’t accidentally bump into the younger and smaller ones, in case they are ever in the same area. The intention is to minimize risks of accidents / incidents / injuries because the safety of the children is our utmost priority.

We usually change cubbies every September as Kinders children leave from our program and new children come in different age groups; then, we have to organize their cubbies according to their ages. Therefore, some children might be relocated.

Parents will be notified either before or after the cubby change. It's up to the teacher's discretion when the educator will have time to notify the parents.

Potty Training
Letter to Parents

Potty Training in the Daycare

I have had a few questions recently from parents of children two and up regarding their child’s readiness to begin toilet training. I have shared some of our ideas and routines with some parents but thought it would be easier for all if I wrote down a few power points regarding training so we could all be on the same page.

I think it’s a common misconception that most children potty train during the twos. In my experience with children in the day care and children entering the day care it is usually around the age of three for girls and three and a half for boys. Some kids do train earlier or later than that. The youngest kid I have ever trained was 22 months and the oldest was four. It’s a pretty wide range of “normal”.

If you feel your little one is ready, I would like to share with you some ideas and experiences to help the process. We have some basic policies when the time comes to begin training. I’ve put in bold the most important points. This may sound awfully official but honestly this is all to help make this go easily for everyone.

Let’s define a potty trained child:

A potty trained child is a child who can do the following:

1) Be able to TELL the adult they have to go potty BEFORE they have to go. They must be able to say the words “I have to go potty” BEFORE they have to go.

2) Be able to pull down their underwear and pants and get them back up without assistance.

3) Be able to wipe themselves after using the toilet.

4) Be able to get off the potty by themselves.

5) Be able to wash and dry hands.

6) Be able to go directly back to the room without directions.

7) Be able to postpone going if they must wait for someone who is in the bathroom or if we are outside and away from the house.

The first one is the number one key to successful training. Children who are ready to train have the ability to perceive events that are going to happen before they happen. Because we cannot allow children to just go in and out of the room to freely use the potty they MUST learn they have to tell us so that we can accompany them into the room and supervise them. At home you can allow them free access to the bathroom if you choose but we are prohibited by our regulations to allow them to go unaccompanied. Because of this they need to learn that they must tell the adult they have to go BEFORE they have to go. We do not accept signs that the child has to go or nonverbal behavior. It must be the words “I have to go potty”.

Is your child ready to begin training?

Sometimes parents feel that if their child is able to actually pee on a potty at home when the parent places them on the potty that this is the sign they are ready to train. From my experience this is not necessarily a sign. I have seen many children who are able to do this who actually trained more than a year after they were able to do this. I always say that potty training is five percent ability to get their clothes on and off, five percent ability to go pee or poop in the potty and NINETY percent being able to identify when they have to go and telling the adult BEFORE they have to go.

Another misconception is that if a child tells you that they have peed or pooped in their diaper that it’s a sign that they are ready to train. I haven’t seen ANY correlation to a child’s awareness AFTER they have gone to their ability to recognize and act BEFORE they have to go.

Some things we do to get kids ready to train:

1) We start reading potty books and talking about going potty in the big girl or big boy potty during changing.

2) We have them sit on the potty during natural transition times (before and after meals, before and after naps, and diaper changes).

3) We practice with them getting their pants up and down on their own and hand washing.

4) We will supervise them and watch for signs that they have to go or are going and get them off to the potty.

5) We keep close communication with the parents about any indicators suggesting the child is ready.

Some things we don’t do:

We do not put kids on a potty schedule where they go every half hour or hour. It’s very time consuming with little to no benefit. From experience we have seen this cause many problems with children not being able to hold much urine and having to constantly go to the potty further along down the line. They are able to settle down at nap because once they relax and have a little bit of pee they have to get up and go. They can’t do walks because they can’t make it very long without having to come back to the potty. The day pretty much centers around the potty which just isn’t realistic in this setting.

We don’t limit food or drinks to only be given at certain times. We maintain the same food and snack schedule during training.

We don’t clean out poopy underwear. We will bag pee soaked underwear and return it to the parent at the end of the day but we will not do this with soiled underwear. We must dispose of that immediately into the garbage. We don’t do laundry of any soaked or soaked or soiled clothes. They are bagged, put outside, and returned to the parents at the end of the day.

Some helpful hints to help you at home:

There are some easy daily things you can do at home that will really help your child’s progression. Some of these may sound silly but trust us… they REALLY work.

1) Be cheery about the potty. A happy experience each time they are on the potty will translate into quick training at home.

2) If there are two adults in the house, have each adult “ask” the other adult if he/she can go to the potty at least four or five times a day. Your child seeing and hearing you “ask” if you can go will get the idea in their head that they need to do that too.

3) Praise the child on success for every step of the process but do not overdo it. You don’t want them trying to do the potty thing fifty times a day to get your attention or get rewarded. A “way to go” or a “thumbs up” and big smile will let them know you are proud. We use the phrase “you go potty like the BIG boys/girls do!!!! They love the idea of being BIG.

4) Bribery can be a good thing. Use stickers or small treats (like gummies, jelly beans, teddy grahams) ONLY after potty success. Have the child give the same treat to everyone around him that can have the treat. Passing a treat for his success will make the child happier than getting the treat himself. Every person receiving the prize says “Good job little buddy… you go potty like the big boys do”.

5) Let the child in the bathroom with you when you are going potty. This is really important for the same sex parent. Let them see how it works and you wash up afterwards.

6) Don’t let them play with toilet paper. If they are infatuated with toilet paper give them a couple of generic cheapo rolls to play around with in the house to get it out of their system.

7) No punishment or consternation for accidents. Just talk to them about them needing to ask to go to the potty next time. We say “next time you will go potty like the BIG boys do… okay?!!”

8 ) If you see them mid way trying to poop or pee, scurry them off to the potty to finish up.

9) Give your child three or four minutes to get the job done. It shouldn’t take more than a few minutes. Don’t let it turn into an attention seeking time where the child gets you to one to one them. It’s only about going potty. If they don’t go in a reasonable time tell them it’s time to get off and we will try again another time.

10) Don’t allow potty time to be a stall tactic to avoid doing something the child doesn’t want to do. We see this here at toy pick up and nap time. Some kids will claim they have to go potty to avoid having to go to bed. If you see a pattern of avoidance, have the child do the potty a little bit before you want them to do whatever they are avoiding so it doesn’t interfere.

11) I don’t encourage any toys or books during the training time. It really can backfire on you. Potty time will quickly turn into one to one attention and play time for the child. After a child has been trained for a few months you can add a book for them to look at if they are having a hard time pooping.

12) Keep attention and interaction during potty time to a bare minimum. If your child is generally doinking around during the time he/she is sitting on the potty then turn away from them and keep the eye contact down. Keep the atmosphere calm and focused.

13) We train boys sitting down first. We switch them to standing up when they are tall enough to reach over the seat and adept enough to aim.

14) Be careful of public automatic flushing toilets. The noise of the flushing will scare them. If you bring a little post-it note with you when you go out you can put it over the sensor so the toilet doesn’t automatically flush right when your child gets off of it.

15) Have fun. Stay cool. It will all work out.

Please don’t expect the same performance here as at home:

I’ve seen both ends of the spectrum with kids' ability to be “trained” here and not at home and vice versa. I’ve had kids who have been successful at home and are unable to do it here for a number of reasons:

1) Kids are not trained at home to tell the parents they have to go BEFORE they have to go but rather are allowed free access unsupervised to the bathroom in their home. Again, here they must tell us BEFORE. They can’t leave the playroom without an adult and go into the bathroom without supervision.

2) There are many more distractions here with a larger group of kids, toys, and bustling activities.

3) They need one to one attention throughout the day in order to keep up with the toileting. Here we have multi-level aged children who have various needs and supervision requirements. We can’t focus on one child but must divide our attention with all the kids. This is another reason your child must tell us he/she has to go. They need to bring it to OUR attention. We can’t focus only on them to pick up cues, sign language, or specific behaviors to tell us it is time.

4) Parents are putting the child on the potty in small time increments. We don’t do this here so the child will wet themselves many times throughout the day if this is being done at home.

5) Parents are over exaggerating and sometimes purposely deceiving the child care provider into believing the child is completely trained at home so they can avoid bringing diapers. There is also an element of the parent population who believe that early training is a sign of giftedness and want their children to be advanced. Potty training has nothing to do with giftedness regardless of the age of training.

We have also had kids who are successful here but will not do it at home. This can happen if:

1) The child is on the go a lot in the evenings and weekends making it difficult for the parent to do toileting practice at home.

2) Children are with different caregivers on the weekend who don’t continue practicing.

3) Parents want the training to be done at day care during the day and do diapers and pull-ups at home on the weekends.

We have had a number of children who train a full year at home before they train here or train here a full year before they train at home. It is best when it is done at the same time but don’t be worried if the child is successful only with you.

We don’t put children into underwear until they have been COMPLETELY accident free HERE for two full weeks.

This is an absolute non-negotiable policy. I have potty trained many children over the years and have found that once a child is successful for two full weeks HERE it is rare if not unheard of for them to have accidents thereafter. We haven’t had a potty training accident here in over five years. This is because this policy is strictly enforced.

The reason we have this policy is because over the years we are training many kids. We have to set up policies that maintain infection control standards for the child care and protect the carpet, furniture, and inventory of the day care. We have to have higher standards than a parent has at home to avoid having to do frequent carpet and furniture cleaning and replacements. The entire day care portion of the home is carpeted.

Often when kids have accidents it isn’t discovered immediately and they end up wetting down their leg and soaking their socks. We are not literally keeping our eyes directly on just one child every second so it could go unnoticed. Once the child sits down or walks around a bit in the playroom you quickly have an entire room with urine soaked footsteps and big soaked spots from the child sitting. It only takes a few minutes of free playing to cover the room completely. The babies and toddlers play and lay directly on that carpet.

Once it’s discovered we have to have the entire room cleaned. Once urine gets into the carpet it is nearly impossible to clean it down to the pad with regular carpet cleaners. Having the carpet done professionally is very expensive and hard on the carpet.

When children soil their underwear it is a very big mess to clean up. Often the poop will soak through their clothes and cause the same problems the pee accidents cause. It can require professional cleaning and takes more staff time to deal with then the cost of diapers for a week.

Naptime training:

Sometimes kids nap on the train right away when they are awake. Most children are not able to do this and it is many months and sometimes years before they are nap trained. We require nap diapers until the child has slept through a nap for one full month without a pee accident.

What to wear during training:

Children should wear easy on and off pants during training. We prefer sweat pants like bottoms until they are physically capable of doing snaps and buttons. Please don’t send them in anything that requires us to remove the top to get to the bottom. We don’t allow overalls, kid costumes, union suits, one piece jammies, or shirts with snaps at the crotch. Belts and suspenders are never allowed in the day care for safety reasons.

Diapers and pull-ups are okay for training. We do not use pull-ups until the child is at the one week mark without accidents. We do not do cloth diapers or underwear with plastic pants. If you have had great success at home we can do the training with the underwear and a pull-up over the underwear during the training. If the child has regular accidents in the underwear we will switch them back to regular diapers and try again at another time. We use regular diapers at nap time.

Finally, I have found that a number of kids are easily potty trained during long vacations and holiday breaks. The parents have the time to do the intense work and supervision. Parents can allow the child to be in underwear for many consecutive days. If they are successful at home they still must remain in diapers and be accident free for two weeks HERE. They can come in underwear with pull-ups when they return. That way they will have a protective layer over the underwear to protect the carpet should they revert back to accidents. I will let you know how they are doing every day.

Thanks and let me know if you have any questions or want to discuss it further. If it’s done at a time when the child is truly ready it should go very easily and quickly.

Potty Training Policy

Learning to use the toilet is an important step in a child’s development. Readiness to control bladder and bowel functions is as individual as each child. A child who exhibits initial interest in toilet training at home may not be as ready at daycare. This is primarily due to the amount of activity and distractions during the day.

Once children begin to express an interest in toilet training at the daycare, we will work with your child to be successful. Although there is no definite age when readiness occurs, children around 2 years old often begin to show muscle control and have the language and intellectual maturity to understand the toilet concept. Most children achieve bowel control and daytime urine control by 3 to 4 years of age.

When you feel your child is ready for toilet training, we ask that you begin teaching at home. We will follow through and encourage your child while they are in our care. Daily communication between the parent and day care provider is very important.

CHILDREN ARE MOST LIKELY READY TO BEGIN TOILET TRAINING WHEN:

- They show a preference for clean diapers and when soiled ask to be changed.

- They stay dry at least 2 hours at a time during the day or are dry after naps.

- Their bowel movements become regular and predictable.

- Facial expressions, posture, or words reveal that your child is about to urinate or have a bowel movement.

- They can walk to and from the bathroom and help undress.

- They ask to use the toilet or potty chair or they ask to wear underwear.

1. Toilet Training must begin at home. Children will be toilet trained in accordance with the requests of the family and in a manner that is consistent with the child’s readiness, both physical and emotional. The Caregivers and the family will work together when a child is ready and then negotiate a plan that will be consistent and manageable in both settings.

2. No child is punished, verbally abused, or humiliated for soiling, wetting or not using the toilet.

3. Children shall be supervised at all times while toileting.

4. All Caregivers will be willing to assist in the toileting process when necessary.

5. Children and Staff are required to wash their hands with liquid soap and running water after toileting. Staff will also wash their hands after assisting a child with toileting. Proper handwashing procedures are always required to be used.

6. Clothing soiled or wet will be bagged and stored apart from other items until the child leaves the center. The parent will be informed of what happened during the day so they know to clean the clothing appropriately.

7. A change of clothing must be kept for all children at the daycare in case of an accident. The parent will be informed when the supplies are running low so another change can be brought in. If the child has no spare clothing, the center will provide a set, which is to be cleaned before being returned to the center so another child can wear them.

8. We request that children be dressed in clothing that is easy for them to pull up and down. (No zippers, overalls, belts)

9. We request children first transition from diapers to pull-ups (that attach at the sides) and once toileting control is reached they then be placed in underwear. Spare items must be supplied for the Toilet Training process.

SUMMARY:

The child must be showing signs of readiness and able to control their bladder and bowel movements.
The child must be kept in a diaper, pull-ups, vinyl training pants, or underwear.
Please keep in mind that the high activity level here at the Center may distract your child from responding to the urge to use the potty more so than at home.
Staff will never put a child on the potty unless the child is willing.
Staff cannot wash out soiled clothing per regulations set by the Alberta Health Services They are required to put soiled clothing in a plastic bag for you to take home and wash.
Please send them to daycare with loose fitting clothing that your child can manage independently. Try to avoid tight clothing, pants with snaps or buttons, overalls, and tight leggings.
The child will be encouraged to use the potty every 30 minutes.
Parents are required to supply the diaper/pull-up or vinyl training pants and extra clothing (including socks) daily.
A pull-up or diaper will be put on the child during naptime.
We encourage every child to be toilet trained before transitioning into the preschool room.
We encourage parents to communicate with your child’s teacher throughout the potty training process.

Health & Safety Policy

Panda Cub House Child Care Centre is dedicated to set the following policy in place in order to provide a safe learning environment for everyone. The following policy is set with the regulation requirements of Alberta Child Care Regulations as well as Healthy Child Care, Healthy Child brochure provided by the Government of Alberta in mind.

Regulations for a Safe Premise:

Proper organized space / premise that aids in holistic learning and well-being of children.
All physical infrastructures are to be maintained in a child-friendly manner in order to continuously provide a safe and healthy learning environment.
All stairways are to always have proper handrails and safety doors with proper latch systems.
All toys are to be cleaned from time to time with proper cleaning agents.
All areas of high touch points need to be cleaned frequently, including door handles, light switches etc.
The washrooms should be properly stocked up with paper towels, toilet papers, and soaps, at all times and need to be cleaned on a daily basis.
The diaper station needs to be properly stocked up with gloves, diaper rash creams, disposable applicator for diaper rash creams, paper liners at all times and the diaper stand needs to be kept at a place while proper supervision towards all children is maintained.
The diaper station / stand should be kept away from the cooking station or where the food is stored.
Perishable foods should be stored in the fridge, home foods should be labeled, raw foods and cooked foods are to be kept separately.
Food allergies, other allergies and immunization records should be kept in the files of the children.
Windows and doors should have screens installed and the windows used in the sleep rooms should have blinds.
Cleaning equipment, seasonally used equipment and other maintenance equipment should be kept away from the reach of children.

Regulations for Staff Members:

Proper hand washing is required when starting their shift, before and after changing diapers, after using restrooms, after sneezing or coughing or anytime when the hands are soiled.
Medications are to be administered by trained staff only.
Supervision is kept on children at all times.
Report to the parents or legal guardians of sick children immediately and ensure the parents make arrangements to remove the child from the centre immediately. (Government of Alberta, 2021 section 8).
Staff members are to refrain from entering the premises if they exhibit symptoms of contagious diseases or other diseases or sickness that might compromise the care of the children.
All personal items of the children need to be labeled.
Sick children are to be separated from the rest of the children and remain under supervision until the parents or caretaker arrives. Primary staff will keep direct supervision for children under the age of six and children with disability. (Government of Alberta, 2021 section 9).
Contact the AHS or emergency services and license holder if they suspect any outbreak of disease.
Contact the director and report to them about any illness or injury.

Regulation for Parents / Children:

Parents are to provide all allergies and medication information to the staff members.
The sick children cannot return to the center until the license holder is satisfied that the child does not pose any health risks to other children; the parents can provide a physician's note, etc.
The parents are to make arrangements for removal of the sick child as soon as they have been contacted. (Government of Alberta, 2021 section 8).
Any communicable diseases like chickenpox, measles, or symptoms such as constant vomiting, high fever, diarrhea, or any other symptoms that requires for the staff to compromise care for other children - the symptomatic child needs to be excluded from the program until they can provide satisfactory proof for the child to not pose any risk to others. (Government of Alberta, n.d.).