Child Development Center Parent Handbook

Table of Content: Welcome …........................................................................................... 5 Mission Philosophy Goals Our CYP Professionals Program Administration....................................................................... 7 Eligibility Priorities Patron Registration Fees TFI Definition Family Household Payments Termination/Suspension of enrollment Payment Refund Discount Attendance Policy Withdrawals Procedures Patron Satisfaction and Concern Procedures Program and Services........................................................................ 12 Operation Hours Inclement Weather Hours of Operation Extended Care Exercises Full Time Care Hourly Care Inclusion of All children

2

General Program Operation…............................................................ 14 Daily schedule/Program Calendar Field Trips/Transportation Personal belonging Dress Attire Holiday Celebration & Birthdays Parent Orientation Transitions Curriculum and Assessment Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) Family Style Dinning Outdoor Play Confidentiality Parent Involvement.............................................................................. 21 Engage in Your Child’s Learning Process Communication with CYP Professionals Daily Notes and Verbal Updates Parent Information Boards and Newsletters Resource Library Parent Advisory Board Parent Conferences Behavioral Guidance............................................................................. 23 Positive Guidance Acceptable Guidance Techniques Unacceptable Guidance Techniques Behavior Support Plan

3

Child Safety............................................................................................. 26 Quality Assurance/Inspection Emergency Procedures/Disaster Plans Check In/Out Procedures Visitors Closed Circuit Television Systems Appropriate Touch Supervision of Children: Parking/unattended Children in Car Child Abuse Prevention, Identification, and Reporting Accident/Injuries Biting Reasonable Expectations for behaviors Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Health………............................................................................................ 33 Admission Requirement Immunizations Child Sick Policy Medication Control of Infectious Disease Pets Oral Health Alcohol, Drugs, and Tobacco Policy Nutrition ................................................................................................. 36 Meals and Snacks USDA Non-Discrimination Policy Key Personnel/Community Resources ............................................... 38 Appendix 1: SIDS Policy …………………………………………………... 39 Appendix 2: Signs and Symptoms Chart………………………………. 40

4

Welcome to the Peterson AFB Child Development Center (CDC). Thank you for entrusting your child to our care. This handbook is designed to provide you with an overview of the processes and procedures of the Peterson AFB CDC. The Peterson CDC stands behind our commitment to provide the best developmental experiences for your child. Our curriculum is designed to meet the cognitive, creative, language, social, and physical needs of each individual child. We are proud of what we have to offer you and your child. As always, your ideas for changes and improvements are welcome. Your support and active participation in our program help us to provide high quality care for young children. Once again, thank you for the opportunity to be involved in your child's development. Our program maintains an open door policy encouraging parents to communicate to staff and the Directors any and all ideas, suggestions, and concerns. Quality child care is the result of a strong partnership between families and the program. We look forward to working with you to provide the best possible care for your child. If you have any questions about our program, processes, or procedures, please do not hesitate to notify program management. If, at any time, you prefer the assistance of a translator please notify the Center Director.

Sincerely, Director, Child Development Center 5

Mission To assist Department of Defense (DoD) military and civilian personnel in balancing the competing demands of the accomplishment of the DoD mission and family life by managing and delivering a system of quality, available and affordable programs and services for eligible children and youth birth through 18 years of age.

Philosophy Our philosophical approach is grounded on current research and knowledge of early childhood education. The program is committed to welcome children and families and to partner with and support them in their parenting role. Children are valued as individuals, as well as part of a group. Likewise, our program respects and supports the ideals, cultures and values of families in their task of nurturing children. We advocate for children, families, and early childhood professional within our programs.

Goals 

Foster positive identity and sense of emotional well-being



Enhance social skills



Encourage children to think, reason, question & experiment



Promote language and literacy development



Support sound health, safety and nutritional practices



Advance creative expression, representation, & appreciation for the arts



Develop initiative and decision-making skills



Appreciate and respect cultural diversity

6

Our CYP Professionals Specific skills and competencies have been identified that our CYP professionals must possess to meet each child’s need for nurturing and developmentally-appropriate care. CYP professionals are highly-trained in child development and experienced in planning developmentally-appropriate programs. Training is provided prior to staff working with children. Training opportunities are offered annually to ensure that CYP professionals maintain the necessary skills and competencies to meet the needs of children in their care. Ongoing training also supports continuous professional development and ensures that the latest developments in the field are implemented in the CYP.

Profession Administration___________ Eligibility The status of sponsor determines eligibility. Eligible patrons include active duty military, DoD civilian employees (either NAF or APF), Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve military personnel on active duty or inactive duty training status, active duty Coast Guard members, combat related wounded warriors, surviving spouses of military members who died from a combat-related incident, those acting in loco parentis for the dependent child of an otherwise eligible patron, eligible employees of DoD contractors, and others may be authorized on a space available basis. In the case of unmarried, legally separated parents with joint custody or divorced parents with joint custody, child(ren) are eligible for child care only when they reside with the eligible sponsor at least 25 percent of the time in a month. Reference DoDI 6060.02, Child Development Programs.

7

Priorities 

Priority 1: Combat related wounded warriors, child development program direct care staff, single or dual active duty Military Service members, single or dual DoD civilian employees paid from APF and NAF, surviving spouses of military members who died from a combat related incident, and those acting in loco parentis on behalf of the aforementioned eligible patrons.



Priority 2: Active duty Military Service members, DoD civilian employees paid from APF and NAF, surviving spouses of military members who died from a combat related incident, and those acting in loco parentis on behalf of the afore mentioned eligible patrons, where a non-working spouse, or in the case of a DoD civilian employee with a same-sex domestic partner, is actively seeking employment.



Priority 3: Active duty Military Service members, DoD civilian employees paid from APF and NAF, surviving spouses of military members who died from a combat related incident, and those acting in loco parentis on behalf of the afore mentioned eligible patrons, where a non-working spouse, or in the case of a DoD civilian employee with a same-sex domestic partner, is enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution. The status of post-secondary enrollment must be verified every 90 days.



Space Available: After meeting the needs of parents in priorities 1,2, and 3, Child Development Program (CDP) shall support the need for full-time care for other eligible patrons such as active duty Military Service members with non-working spouses, DoD civilian employees paid from APF and NAF with non-working spouses or same-sex domestic partners, eligible employees of DoD Contractors, Federal employees for non-DoD agencies, military retirees on a space available basis.

8

Patron Registration Prior to admission of a child, parents must complete and sign all applicable portions of AF Form 1811, Air Force Youth Flight Program Patron Registration. The CDC is responsible for validating immunization dates by reviewing and maintaining a copy of children’s shot records. The CDC follows current AFJI48-110 immunizations requirements and current guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control. Admission may be denied if established immunization requirements have not been fulfilled. Additional forms are provided to all families and are required to be completed and submitted to the front desk prior to the first day of attendance. Children whose parents do not authorize emergency medical treatment will not be admitted for care.

Fees Parent fees for care in military CDC are based on Total Family Income (TFI). TFI must be verified during registration and at the time new rates go into effect with documentation from the Service Member/Civilian/Contractor and, if applicable, spouse’s most recent LES(s), W-2 forms, or detailed pay information. Students are required to provide proof of full-time enrollment. Parents who choose not to show proof of income will be charged the highest fee.

TFI Definition All earned income including wages, salaries, tips, special duty pay (flight pay, active duty demo pay, sea pay), active duty save pay, long-term disability benefits, voluntary salary deferrals, retirement or other pension income including Supplemental Security Income (SSI) paid to the spouse and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits paid to the surviving spouse before deductions for taxes listed on the member’s most recent Leave and Earnings Statement (LES). 9

Family Household Definition Income must be verified for any adults, married or not, sharing expenses toward the benefit of the child. Income verification is required for biological parents who live together, whether they are married or not, legal guardians of the children, or any person living in the household that the child resides, provided such a person stands in loco parentis to that child and contributes to the child’s support. In the case of divorced or legally separated parents, only the sponsor who has physical custody of the child must provide household income information.

Payments All fees are due in advance of care received. Fees are due every week by 1200 hours on Monday. If Monday is a holiday, payments are due on Tuesday by 1200. If payment is not received by close of business, a late fee will be assessed. Please note that cash register opens at 0700 and closes at 1730.

Termination/Suspension of Enrollment Termination/Suspension of enrollment is be considered on a case-to-care bases for the following reasons: non-payment, child unable to adjust to program environment, parent failure to comply with program policy. A decision to terminate or suspense will be made by the Airmen and Family Readiness Flight Chief.

Payment Refunds Program fees are non-refundable. Program fees will not be prorated for Federal Holidays, Family Days, or days in which the program is closed for other circumstances by the Air Force or the Wing. Care will not be provided on these days. These days have already been calculated into the cost of care, therefore reduction of fees is not authorized. 10

Discount Programs will apply a 10% reduction of fees charged to each additional child enrolled in the CYP from the same family. The multi-child discount is always applied to the older child’s fees.

Attendance Policy Please notify your child’s teacher or front desk by 0845 each day or the day before if your child will not be in attendance or arriving after 0900. The front desk clerk will begin contacting parents if status of child’s attendance is unknown. We will also contact parents if preschool-age children (who attend another preschool) do not arrive as expected from school.

Withdrawal Procedures A two week written notice is required to withdraw your child from the program. If notice is not provided, the patron must pay four weeks of payment regardless of child’s attendance. A withdrawal notice is available at the front desk for your convenience. Under an extreme circumstance the 21 FSS Airman and Family Service Chief may wave this requirement.

Patron Satisfaction and Concern Procedures We are committed to providing your child with the best possible care. However, we know there may be times when you have suggestions and comments. At anytime you can provide your suggestion and comments to the Program Director, teachers, or front desk clerk. Most issues can be resolved at the lowest level, but if a reasonable agreement cannot be reached parents may utilize the Airman & Family Readiness chain of command. We encourage your comments and suggestions. Cooperation and teamwork from parents, caregivers, and CDC management is needed to make the CDC a success. 11

Program Services_________________ Child Development Centers (CDCs) provide quality child development programs for children ages six weeks to five years. All CDCs are DoD certified and accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). NAEYC is a membership organization that advocates on behalf of young children, sets and monitors standards for high-quality early childhood education programs and accredits programs that meet these standards.

Operating Hours Operating hours are Monday through Friday 0630 to 1800. The program observes all federal holidays & is closed accordingly. Emergency closing due to base closure or inclement weather will be at the discretion of the installation commander. Parents may be called if an emergency arises. Children picked up after the posted closing time will be charged an additional fee.

Inclement Weather Hours of Operation On days when the installation Commander authorizes delayed reporting, the CDP will offer care for children of mission essential personnel only beginning at 0630. Parents who are designated as nonmission essential must follow the directions posted on PAFB emergency alert message system. During inclement weather CDP operates with a reduced number of staff, thus assisting the staff in arriving to work safely. Mission essential personnel must provide a letter annually from their commander designating them as such.

Extended Duty Care The Extended Duty Care Program is available through the Family Child Care (FCC) Office for those families that may need childcare beyond our regular business hours. Call 556-4322 for additional information. 12

Exercises During base wide exercises, extended hours of care may be provided at the direction of base leadership. An applicable hourly rate for child care will apply outside of normal operating hours. Parents are required to give notification of intended use as soon as possible to ensure adequate staffing. In the event the program is not open for extended care, the FCC program may be able to assist parents in finding child care. Call 556-4322 for additional information.

Full Time Care The full day program offers childcare Monday through Friday. Full day programs open daily at 0630 and close at 1800. Children must be picked up before the designated closing time. Children not picked up by the Close of Business will be assessed $4.00 for each minute late, per child left at the program. The time clock in the center will be used to determine late fees. The fee is payable on the following business day for full-time and hourly families. Parents wishing to sublet their child’s space should speak with the front desk staff for assistance.

Hourly Care Hourly care is offered during normal business hours Monday through Friday. Reservations may be made for hourly care by calling CDC location child will be attending. All registration paperwork must be completed before children arrive for Hourly Care.

Inclusion of all children CYP professionals collaborate with families and the Inclusion Action Team (IAT) to make reasonable accommodations which support children with special needs. When applying for care, registering for a program or currently participating, if a child is identified as having a disability, medical condition, or specific need, CYP personnel will ensure IAT recommendation for environments, accommodation, and training are in place before child starts. 13

General Program Information________ Daily Schedule/Program Calendar The daily schedule provides consistent routines for children as a source of security and predictability. It helps them know what to expect throughout the day, reducing any feelings of anxiety related to attending the program. The daily schedule offers choices and a range of activities, some initiated by children and others planned by teachers. Daily schedules are posted at all CY programs in visible areas on the Parent Information Board located in classrooms and activity rooms. Since young children are developing skills in literacy, time, and sequencing, a daily schedule is also ideally displayed at the child’s eye level and illustrated with pictures and words. In addition, CDC programs plan developmentally appropriate weekly activities that relate to daily scheduled routines and experiences to meet the needs of each individual child.

Field Trip/Transportation Field trips are an important part of the CYP curriculum as they give children first-hand experience of the world around them and provide variety away from the classroom. Field trips may include both walking trips and trips requiring transportation. Walking trips may take place on a daily basis and, in some cases, are part of the daily routine. While parents are not typically notified of “walking field trips” where children do not leave the installation, you will always be notified when your child is expected to leave the installation. Authorization for ‘Walking field trips” is attained on the permission AF 1181. is required upon enrollment and annually thereafter.

14

Parents must sign Field Authorization Form for all field trip requiring transportation. Information will be provided in advance. All children who are transported must have a signed parental permission form on file. The center will ensure vehicle operators meet the required qualifications; the vehicle is maintained properly, has a current registration, and developmentally appropriate safety restraints for use.

Personal Belongings Except on special occasions, items from home are not permitted as they may get misplaced or damaged. The CYP is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items, and you should avoid allowing your child to bring anything of value to the program. Young children are welcome to bring one soft comfort item to the CYP to help them feel safe and secure throughout the day, especially during naptime. Acceptable items will be described during parent orientation prior to enrollment. Pillows are prohibited for use by children younger than 1 year. Soft items such as bumpers and quilts may not be placed with an infant during sleep time. Each child will be provided a space to place his or her personal belongings.

15

Dress Attire Your child will participate in a variety of activities both indoors and out. Be sure to dress your child in comfortable and weather appropriate clothes and shoes that are suitable for indoor and outdoor play, including sensory and sand activities, and for working with art materials. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. Also, it is strongly recommended that parents label all clothing that may be removed during the day (i.e., jackets, boots, sweaters, mittens) with your child’s name. For ages five and younger, please provide an extra set of seasonally appropriate clothing, including socks and underwear.

Holiday Celebration & Birthday CYP respects families from all cultural backgrounds and strives to provide inclusive programming. You are encouraged to share your holiday traditions with CYP professionals so these events may be incorporated in the curriculum or daily activities. Military children have the opportunity for exposure to many different cultures and can learn from them. CYP provides an outlet for you and your child to share your family’s cultural traditions or observances with other children enrolled in the CYP. Birthdays are also special events and opportunities to acknowledge and reinforce each child’s personal identity. If you wish to celebrate your child’s birthday at the CYP, please talk to your child’s classroom teacher or program staff in advance of your child’s birthday. Due to health and food regulations, food prepared outside of the CDC is not allowed. To ensure the safety of the children in our care party favors will not be passed on to other families through the program.

16

Parent Orientation We recognize the importance of new beginnings – or transitions – in a child’s development and to each child’s family. Children’s needs differ at various times during any transition. Our attention, understanding, and ongoing communication with children as well as parents can ease concerns during this time and facilitate children’s adjustments to a new environment. Parent Orientation is a great way for families to learn about our program, meet teachers, tour our facility, and share information about your child’s preferences with CYP professional so care can be individualized as much as possible. We find this to be a big part in ensuring smooth and successfully transition. Orientation are provided at initial enrollment and when children transition to new classroom.

Transitions Children enrolled in the CDC periodically transition from one classroom to another. Factors considered during the transition decision-making process include classroom availability, child’s age, developmental readiness, class compatibility, class composition, and the child’s overall characteristics and needs. Classroom placement and transition decisions are individualized, since no one-size-fits-all approach is expected to ensure a successful transition for all children and families. Lead teachers and the Training and Curriculum Specialist carefully monitor each child’s growth and communicate with families on a regular basis. During the transition, your child will be observed carefully to ensure he or she feels comfortable and confident in the new classroom environment. We will work with you to develop a transition plan that will best serve your child and your family. While parental input will be carefully considered by CYP staff members, the final decision about the timing of a child’s transition is ultimately at the discretion of CDC management team. 17

Curriculum and Assessment NAEYC states that “young children learn best through direct sensory encounters and not through a formal academic process. Learning should be the outcome of hands-on experience, especially play.” Our early childhood curriculum is thoughtfully planned, challenging, engaging, developmentally appropriate, culturally and linguistically responsive, and comprehensive to support school readiness. CDC programs serving children ages 0-5 use Teaching Strategies, The Creative Curriculum® as the standard curriculum. This comprehensive, early childhood curriculum is based on a solid foundation of theory and research and incorporates basic fundamental beliefs about how children develop and learn, aligning with NAEYC Standards. This curriculum approach coupled with Teaching Strategies Assessment System enables our CYP professionals to assess the progress of children, adapt the curriculum to meet individual child development needs, and advance all areas of interests through hands-on experiences and play. From social-emotional development to reading, writing, math, and more, The Creative Curriculum® addresses school readiness in a way that is consistent with research on how young children learn.

Ages & Stages Questionnaire ASQ) The Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) is an additional screening tool provided to the parents upon enrollment and at regular intervals. The tool is used to evaluate children’s strengths, interests, progress, and needs while assisting the center staff in adapting and improving classroom curricula and practices. If the completed questionnaires indicate the need for a more in-depth child evaluation, families are provided a referral to appropriate professionals. 18

Family Style Dining Meals and snacks are served family-style and is an extension of our learning environment. Our childcare providers sit with children and encourage children to try new things, talk with children about nutrition and about the food they enjoy eating, model, and encourage appropriate table manners. In family style dining, all food is placed in serving bowls on the table and children are encouraged to serve themselves or serve themselves with help from child care provider. Children can learn and practice many social skills, such as taking turns, passing food to others, saying please and thank you, and helping to set the table. Children often want to try new foods when they see the other children and adults eating them. Meal times is an opportunity for children and childcare providers to enjoy light conversation and a healthy meal together.

Outdoor Play Outdoor play is an essential and integral aspect of the curriculum. The outdoor environment provides children with new, stimulating opportunities to play and explore. Outdoor play provides children with the chance to practice gross motor skills and develop coordination and muscles. CYPs will provide children with outdoor play opportunities every day, weather permitting. Infants will also spend time outside everyday either playing or taking a buggy ride. Expectation to this are as follows: 

Days when it is raining, lighting, sleeting, or snowing heavily. However, the program director may determine that children go outside in a light snow flurry for short period of times. 

Days when the temperature, including chill is 15 degrees F or lower. Children will go outside and pay for a short period of time in temperatures exceeding 15 degrees F. The only 19



exception to this is for infants under 12 months of age who will only go outside when the temperature, including wind child is 32 degrees F or higher. Days when the temperature, including heat index, is 95 degrees F or higher. However, the program director has the discretion to allow children to play outside for a short period during these times. The only exception to this is for infants under 12 months of age who will only go outside when the temperature, including heat index, is 85 degrees F or lower.

Short period of time is defined as 10-15 minutes. All children in attendance in the program will go outside daily, weather permitting. It is parent’s responsibility to ensure their children are dressed appropriately for outdoor play. We cannot accommodate parent requests for their child to remain inside due to staff:child ratios. Children must be well enough to participate in all aspects of the program.

Confidentiality The CDC is committed to protecting and upholding the rights and privacy of children and their families. All children will be treated fairly, in a non-discriminatory way, regardless of racial, ethnic, gender, cultural, religious and linguistic background and abilities. All information pertaining to children and their families is maintained in a confidential manner to ensure their privacy is protected. Confidential and private information will be disclosed only with parental consent and only when there is an established "need to know‟. Staff and volunteers are trained annually on the importance of keeping all information about children, families, and other staff confidential.

20

Parent Involvement________________ Play is an important part in the development of their children, and we strives to share this responsibility with families. You will be provided numerous opportunities to observe your child and participate in CYP. You are welcome to visit your child at any time, unannounced, and join in the daily activities. CYP has an open door policy and always welcomes visitors, input, and questions from parents. Feel free to talk to the CYP professionals or the Director at any time to ask questions or discuss concerns. CYP also encourages and appreciates parent volunteers.

Engage in Your Child’s Learning Process We encourage you to get involved in your child’s learning and development at the CYP. Talk to your child about what he or she is experiencing at the program, the activities he or she enjoys, and extend this learning beyond the program to your home.

Communicate with CYP Professionals You are encouraged to talk to your CYP professionals daily. Those who care for your child each day can provide a wealth of observational information. Likewise, you as parents have valuable information to share with CYP professionals about your child’s health, developmental progress, family environment, and much more that can assist them in supporting your child appropriately. Several methods of communication are in place to encourage ongoing dialogue between CYP professionals and parents.

Daily Notes and Verbal Updates Regularly we provide verbal and/or written communication. If your child is under three years old, verbal and written information on your child’s sleeping and eating habits as well as other helpful information on your child’s day. If your child is three years old and older, you will receive verbal information about your child during pick-up. 21

Parent Information Boards and Newsletters Parent information boards with information relevant to families are posted throughout CYP facilities. Parent newsletters and Facebook pages are also provided to communicate information about special events and parent education classes.

Resource Library Each CYP maintains a reference library of resource material for parents that cover a wide range of child and youth topics. In addition, each CYP has a location dedicated as a parent resource area, which contains brochures for various parent support resources.

Parent Advisory Board To support the continued well-being of all children in the program and become more formally involved in the CYP, you are encouraged to participate in the Parent Advisory Board (PAB). Members of the PAB provide recommendations for improving services, help plan special events, and discuss other opportunities for parent participation. The PAB is composed of parents of children and youth enrolled in each type of CYP, base personnel, and CYP professionals. We value your ideas and view the PAB as a way to continue to improve the programs and services provided.

Parent Conferences Parent conferences are held throughout the year and provide a venue for sharing information and discussing your child’s developmental progress. These conferences provide an opportunity for you to receive feedback as well as offer input about your child. At a minimum, you will be offered a parent conference at least twice a year.

22

Behavioral Guidance__________________ Positive Guidance Positive guidance encourages and teaches children respect for themselves, for others, and for their environment. This approach provides children the direction and tools necessary for developing positive social experiences with peers and adults. It is our goal to guide children in a manner that helps them develop self-control, self- esteem, and the ability to acknowledge the rights of others. This provides them with the ability to express their frustrations verbally. It also teaches children to evaluate, make choices, and solve problems fairly. The goals of the guidance/touch policy are to assist children in developing self- control and engaging in socially acceptable behaviors. Adults will model, coach, and encourage techniques of discipline that are fair, consistent, and respectful of children and their needs. Simple and understandable rules will be established (with input from children when possible) so that expectations and limitations are clearly defined. Child Development Program staff and volunteers will use only positive guidance techniques, including logical or natural consequences applied in problem situations, redirection, anticipation and elimination of potential issues, and encouragement of appropriate behaviors.

Acceptable Guidance Techniques include:     

Ignoring inappropriate activities when applicable. Helping children identify feelings and learn acceptable ways to express them. Redirecting the child to acceptable activities. Using simple, positive reminders to restate the rules. Reinforcement of positive behavior, using encouragement and words of praise.

23



Anticipation of problem-triggering situations; keeping expectations to child’s level; soliciting cooperation; involving children in rule setting.



Modeling appropriate behaviors. Calling attention to appropriate behaviors; using expressions such as “thank you” and “please”.



Involving children in discussions on how to handle inappropriate behavior; providing several alternatives to undesirable behavior; guiding children in problem solving; applying natural/logical consequences.



Affording each child a chance to regroup, regain control in a quiet area of the activity room (this may include the temporary removal from stressful situations).



Limiting the child’s participating in some activities, for a short period of time.

Unacceptable Guidance Techniques include: 

Verbal abuse, screaming, threatening, or making derogatory remarks about child/family.



Isolation away from adult sight/contact.



Staff will not tease, humiliate, insult, frighten, or bully children.



Discussing children’s behavior in front of the child, other children, other staff and other parents.



Withholding of meals/snacks, outdoor play opportunities, or other program components.



Physical punishment such as spanking, slapping, hitting, biting, shaking, pinching, etc.



Restrictions or confinement by physical means.



Punishing children for toileting accidents or lapses.

24

Behavior Support Plan (BSP) Children need guidance from adults to keep them safe, encourage development of self-control, self-reliance and respect for the rights of others. These skills are crucial during their early development and their future success as adults. Guidance for child behavior is ongoing and requires skills and patience. Effective guidance takes place when children know and trust adults and know adults care for them unconditionally. CYP personnel must recognize children as individuals and respect differing abilities, temperaments, activity levels, and developmental characteristics. No one specific guidance techniques will work for every situation; therefore approaches will need to be individualized. When a child exhibit behaviors which are consistent and intense, that do not subside using positive guidance techniques, cannot be redirected, and/or interferes with performance or participation of daily routines or activities, it may be necessary to develop a behavior support plan to assist the child, CYP personnel, and families. Many behaviors regarded as “challenging” are simply age-appropriate, if ageappropriate behaviors become problematic, the issue usually lies with the adult and/or the program, not necessarily the child. A behavior support plan is developed by a team of individuals who are invested in the child’s life. The team collaborates in developing, implementing, and monitoring the behavior support plan. Regular communication should take place through meetings, parent conferences, written documentation, etc. Every attempt will be made to guide children’s behavior. At times, the constraints of a program can place undue hardships on a child. Group size, ratios, sensory simulation, etc. may influence behaviors. A different environment may need to be explored to ensure safety and health of child and the rest of the children in the program. 25

Child Safety______________________ The safety of children is our number one priority. Our programs have numerous processes in place to ensure your child is well protected.

Quality Assurance/Inspections CY programs undergo rigorous daily, monthly, and annual inspections to include:  Daily inspections of the facilities and grounds conducted by CYP professionals. 

Monthly unannounced fire inspections, fire drills and health/ sanitation inspections conducted by certified personnel at centerbased programs.



Five annual inspections: 

One comprehensive fire and safety inspection conducted by local, qualified fire and safety personnel.



One comprehensive health and sanitation inspection conducted by local health/sanitation personnel.



One unannounced Multi-disciplinary Team Inspection



One unannounced Higher Headquarters Inspection.

Emergency and Disaster Plans Each CYP has a specific procedures and emergency preparedness plan that addresses CYP personnel responsibilities and facility readiness with respect to emergency evacuation, shelter-in-place, lockdown, plans for release of children, active shooter, and incidents involving a missing child.

Plans for release of Children In an event of emergency every effort will be made to contact you as soon as the children and staff are safe. If we cannot reach you, we will contact your emergency contacts. Children will only be released to you or your emergency contact during times of emergency . 26

Fire Prevention and Evacuation A fire evacuation drill is practiced by all persons in the building once a month. Our local fire department conducts these unannounced drills and evaluates our performance on following our approved fire evacuation plan. The goal of the drill is not to race but to practice the actions needed so they become routine and automatic. Monthly results are displayed on Parent information board in the lobby.

Evacuation There is two designated evacuation assembly points. When evacuation is necessary teachers are trained on evacuation procedures and once children are safe parents will be notify.

Intruder Alert Procedure An intruder is defined as any unauthorized individual who, through act or deed, poses a perceived threat to the safety and welfare of children and employees. If we are face with an intruder situation lockdown and intruder alert procedure will be initiated. Children will be locked down within their classrooms. Staff member will call 911 immediately. Director or designee will engage the intruder in conversation directing always from children.

Active Shooter In the event of an active shooter we will respond occurring to situation and direction from law enforcement. Based on situation we will either follow lock down procedure or evacuate. The safety of the children in our care will be first priority.

27

Lockdown When lockdown is directed all staff member will account for children, ensure children are secure inside assigned classrooms. All exterior doors are immediately lock. Children are kept away from windows and doors. Staff will maintain a calm atmosphere in the building, keeping alert to emotional needs of children. Activity within the building may continue, but no access to outside is permitted. Children will remain in classroom until a “all clear” is given. Director will apprise parents of all lockdown whether practice or real.

Shelter-in-place In event of external hazardous materials accident or tornado, when directed staff and children will report to shelter-in-place location. Children will be accounted for and shelter-in-place procedures will be followed. Shelter-in-place is practice twice a year.

Contingency Operations When care can not be provided in building contingency operations procedures will be followed. There is two alternate location were day-to-day care will continue. Based on situation family will be advised of changes and location where care will be provided.

Missing Children and Notification If a child is found to be missing the supervisor on duty is immediately notify and provided a detail and accurate description of the child. Steps are taken to secure the safety of other children with a responsible adult. Missing child alert will indicate to front desk to monitor front entrance while a search in immediate and near vicinity is conducted. If child is not located within 10 minutes Security Forces and child’s parents will be contacted. After child is reunited with parent an investigation will be conducted.

28

Check In/Out and Sign In/Out Daily check-in procedures require parents to check their child in/out at the front desk (AF Form 1182) and also sign them in/out on AF Form 1930, Youth Flight Daily Attendance Record, in the classroom. Signing your child in is very important for accountability of all children present in the event of an emergency. Please give any changes in emergency numbers to the front desk personnel. Parents must accompany their child to and from their assigned rooms. This allows you to become better acquainted with your child’s teacher and to ensure your child is safely settled.

Visitors All parents and visitors are required to enter and exit at the main entrance of CYP facilities (except for approved kitchen deliveries). Visitors must sign in and out, wear a visitor’s badge and be monitored while in the facility. Military personnel with names on their uniforms must sign in but are not required to wear a visitor’s badge. Parents attending events with their children are not considered visitors and therefore are not required to wear visitor badges or sign in.

Closed Circuit Television Systems The CYP facility is equipped with closed circuit television systems (CCTV). Your child’s daily routine and activities are monitored and recorded. CCTV systems also provide you with opportunities to observe your child adjusting to child care without interrupting or distracting from your child’s daily routine and activities. CCTV monitors are always available for parents to watch their children in real-time. However, Once CCTV recordings are made, the recording becomes an official Government record. Requests by parents/ guardians for viewing a CCTV recording may be made to the CDC Director. 29

Appropriate Touch CYP professionals are trained to respect the personal privacy and space of others and use appropriate touching with all children and youth. Appropriate touch is gentle and positive and is natural and appropriate within the context of normal, acceptable adult/child interactions for each child’s age. For example, appropriate touch with young children may include cuddling, hugging, handholding, stroking, patting backs, and assisting in physical activities. While sitting on laps is appropriate for young children, it is not allowed for school-age children and youth. For older children, side-by-side contact is more appropriate. Inappropriate touching is not allowed in CYP settings by any individuals. Examples of inappropriate touching include: Squeezing of the face or any areas of the body 

Pinching, hitting or punching, slapping, shaking or arm-twisting



Tickling



Restricting or physically restraining of the child’s movement by any means or in any way, except in limited, supervised circumstances when a child may harm self or others due to special needs.



Any form of physical punishment



Violating laws against adult/child physical/sexual contact



Forcing of hugs, kisses or other touches on the child.

Supervision of Children Parking spaces are available in the front of the center for your convenience. Vehicles left unattended while running or unattended and running with children in them pose an extreme danger. To ensure the safest environment for everyone involved, parents must always take all children out of their vehicles and turn off the vehicle before entering the facility. 30

Child Abuse Prevention, Identification, & Reporting CYP professionals are required by law to report any suspected/ alleged abuse/neglect directly to the Family Advocacy Program (FAP) and Local Child Protective Services (CPS). Substantiating a case of child abuse is the role of child welfare experts, police investigators and/or the court. The FAP initiates an investigation on any allegation once it has been determined it meets the criteria for a child abuse investigation. The FAP will then notify other required authorities as necessary. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, you should report it immediately to the proper authorities. Your local CDC Director can assist you in reporting your suspicion to CPS and Family Advocacy Program (FAP). Parents may also report alleged child abuse and neglect directly to the DOD child abuse and safety hotline, US and in US Territories -1-877-790-1197 or Overseas– 571-372-5348. These hotline numbers are posted in all CYP facilities on parent information board in Lobby.

Accidents/Injuries We make every attempt to keep your child safe and free from harm. Minor injuries will be treated with appropriate first aid procedures. If your child is injured while participating in our program, we will provide immediate care for your child, contact you and emergency services if needed, and provide you with an accident/incident report. It is important to keep your child’s emergency contact information current so you can be reached as soon as possible in the event of an accident or injury. All CYP Professionals receive training in CPR and Standard First Aid. If the injury involves another child, CYP staff are required to maintain confidentiality of the identity of the other child.

31

Biting Toddlers are not far from infancy in which “mouthing” something was the first way to learn, therefore, it is common for pre-toddlers and toddlers to bite. Some examples for why young children may bite include teething pain, desire for attention, and feelings of being frustrated, threatened, overwhelmed, excited, or confused. As a pre-toddler or toddler learns other ways to communicate, biting generally disappears. CYP professionals will focus on prevention strategies to redirect children to more appropriate situations or behaviors. However, when biting causes continuous harm to other children measures will be implemented to address this concern including a parent/teacher conference. Confidentiality of children’s identity will be maintained.

Reasonable Expectations for Behavior Although great care is taken to safeguard children, hitting, scratching, throwing objects, falling, and biting occur in group care – even with small group sizes and good supervision. Learning acceptable behavior is part of growing up. If your child is scratched or hit, your child will be comforted and the injury treated if necessary. The other child, depending on the age, will talk with the CYP professional about not hurting friends and will be redirected to acceptable behavior. CYP professionals will write an Accident/Injury report for each set of parents and explain the situation to each parent. CYP professionals are trained to work with children who display behavioral challenges. However, if a child continues to display inappropriate behavior, a conference will be requested with the parents. In extreme cases, when the safety of other children becomes a concern, or a child begins to require one-on-one constant supervision, assistance from the Inclusion Action Team (IAT) may be sought. If all attempts to improve behavior have been exhausted, the child may be removed and an alternative type of child care may be suggested. 32

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Providing infants with a safe place to grow and learn is very important. The safe sleep practices in our infant rooms are in accordance with the AF SIDS Prevention Policy, the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. A copy of the entire policy can be found in Appendix 1 of this handbook.

Health___________________________ We are committed to the health and well-being of your child and the children attending our programs. Good health is a state of physical, mental, social and emotional well-being, not simply the absence of disease. CYP professionals play a key role in keeping children healthy.

Admission Requirements As part of the admission registration, you must certify that your child is free from obvious illness and is in good health. No child who is acutely ill will be accepted for care. A CYP professional will conduct a daily health check of each child by direct observation and queries.

Immunizations All children enrolled in CYP are require to provide proof if immunization prior to starting which follows the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/ Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended age-appropriate vaccination and immunization. Current information on immunizations can be found at http:// www.cdc.gov/vaccines/acip/index.html. Exemption for medical/ religious reason must be approve from AF/A1S prior to attending.

33

Child Sick Policy If your child shows any sign or symptom that requires exclusion from the program, you will be notified to pick up your child immediately. Refer to the Appendix for the Signs and Symptoms Chart from Caring for Our Children: National Health and Safety Performance Standards; Guidelines for Early Care and Education Settings. Third Edition, 2011.

Medication CYP professionals are authorized to administer topical, non-prescription products such as diaper rash ointment, sunscreen, and dry skin cream. You will be asked to sign a form authorizing the administration of these products upon enrollment and annually thereafter. If your child requires prescription medication, the medication schedule should be adjusted when possible so medication does not need to be administered during care by our CYP professionals. However, medication will be administered if necessary. The decision to administer medication will be based on the number of times per day medication is to be administered. All medication is stored up front desk and a AF Form 1055 must be fill out by parent authorizing us to administer medication. CYP professionals responsible for administering medication receive annual training by a health professional on medication administration procedures. The first dose of any new medicine should not be administered at the program. Medications must be maintained in their original container, and the label must include your child’s first and last name, date prescription was filled and expiration date, name of health care provider, instructions for administration and storage and name and strength of medication. 34

Control of Infectious Disease Good hygiene is the best method for controlling infectious disease. CYP professionals and children conduct hand washing procedures as prescribed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CYP professionals also practice universal precautions when handling bodily fluids, and model appropriate respiratory etiquette (i.e., disposing of used tissues, covering mouth while coughing or sneezing, etc.) for children.

Pets Any animals present in CYPs must be in good health and appropriately immunized against any disease that can be transmitted to humans. Children must be supervised at all times when exposed to animals and must wash hands after handling animals. All animals must be on the approved list.

Oral Health The CDC promotes the habit of regular tooth brushing and oral health practices in young children. Children, older than one year, are provided the opportunity for tooth brushing and gum cleaning to remove food and plaque at least once daily. While children brush their teeth in the center, toothpaste is not required. The menu items promote good oral health by including foods that are high in protein and Vitamins A & C and which are low in salt and sugar.

Alcohol/Drugs/Tobacco Tobacco use, alcohol, and illegal drugs is prohibited on CYP premises (both indoor and outdoor). Children will not be release to adults under the influence of alcohol and other drugs.

35

Nutrition___________________________ CDC offer quality nutritional programs in clean and pleasant environments. Healthy eating habits are encouraged by introducing children to components of the basic food groups outlined in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) MyPlate.

Meals and Snacks CDC provide a variety of nutritious meals and snacks based on USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines. A weekly menu is planned and posted at each CYP facility. It is your responsibility to inform the CYP if your child is allergic to any food or has other special dietary needs. If substitutions are required due to medical reasons, you must provide the CYP with a written statement signed by a medical authority that identifies the food to be omitted and the food to be substituted to meet the child’s needs.

Our programs respect the choice of parents to provide the best possible nutrition for their children. Special circumstances that include special diets, vegetarian, or organic home-prepared food will be accommodated. However, it is your responsibility to notify the CYP of any special diets and make appropriate substitutions when the requested food substitution is not due to a disability or medical condition. Meal and Snack Schedule o Breakfast 8:30 – 9:00 o Lunch 11:30 – 12:00 o PM Snack 2:30 – 3:00 Formula or Human Milk is offered to Infants outside of the hours noted above. 36

USDA Non-Discrimination Policy In accordance with USDA civil rights regulation and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, and reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible State or local Agency that administers the program or USDA’s Target Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information is available in languages other than English. To file a complaint alleging discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at

http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html or at any USDA Office or write a letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: mail: U.S. Department of Ariculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250—9410 fax: (202) 690-7442; or email: 37

Key Personnel/Community Resources There are times when a family may require specialized assistance to address personal or family situations. There are several on base and off base resources that can provide guidance and support.

Name

Contact Information

Child Development Center Main Ruby Belton, CDC Director

554-9572

Child Development Center East Joyce Sumpter, CDC Director

556-7460

Family Child Care Program Janet Martineau

556-4322

Youth Programs

556-7220

Airman & Family Readiness Flight Chett Kline, Flight Chief

556-4882

Airman & Family Readiness Center

556-6141

   

Exceptional Family Member Coordinator Give Parents A break Program Right Start School Liaison Office

DoD Child Abuse & Safety Violation

1-877-790-1197

Family Advocacy Office

556-8943

Military family Life Consultant

719-425-1115

Military Once Source www.militaryonesource.com

1-800-342-9647

TRICARE Behavioral Health Care

1-800-874-9378

New Parent Support Program

556-8943

Health and Wellness Center

556-6544 38

APPENDIX 1

39

APPENDIX 2

40

41

APPENDIX 2

42

43

APPENDIX 2

44

45

APPENDIX 2

46

47

APPENDIX 2

48

49

Notes: ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________

50

Notes: ___________________________________________

___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________

51

52