Starting Your Home Daycare

2013 Child Care Providers Resource Network 30 Colonnade Road, Unit 275 Ottawa, ON K2E 7J6 613.749.5211 www.ccprn.com

About This Kit This Start-Up Kit offers information and ideas on the many elements of operating home ("family") day care. As an individual who is considering providing home child care, this information will enable you to make an informed decision about whether or not you will become a family day care provider. If you have recently begun providing care, the information and ideas will get you off to a strong start. If you are already an established caregiver, we hope that the information provided in this package will assist you in the important work you do. Once you have had an opportunity to "digest" the material, you may have some questions. Please do not hesitate to call the Child Care Providers Resource Network of Ottawa-Carleton office...if we can't answer your question, we'll find out who can! We hold regular start-up sessions throughout the year, so check our website www.ccprn.com for the next session. Please take some time to familiarize yourself with the background & services of the Child Care Providers Resource Network of Ottawa-Carleton. We are a rapidly expanding organization with a dedicated staff and Board of Directors and we welcome input from our caregiver membership. If you are not already a member, just fill out a membership form, send in your payment and begin enjoying the benefits of CCPRN membership or register online at www.ccprn.com.

TABLE OF CONTENTS WHO ARE WE?.................................................................................................. 1 WHAT ARE OUR OBJECTIVES? .............................................................................. 1 WHAT SERVICES DO WE OFFER? ........................................................................... 1 STARTING YOUR HOME CHILD CARE BUSINESS - WORKSHOPS ........................................ 2 INCOME TAX & RECORD KEEPING .......................................................................... 2 REGISTERING YOUR DAY CARE AS A SMALL BUSINESS .................................................. 3 REGULATIONS GOVERNING FAMILY DAY CARE .......................................................... 3 LIABILITY INSURANCE......................................................................................... 3 SETTING FEES.................................................................................................. 4 INITIAL TELEPHONE CONTACT ............................................................................. 4 THE INTERVIEWS .............................................................................................. 5 ADVERTISING ................................................................................................... 5 FREE ADVERTISING WEBSITES .............................................................................. 6 HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST................................................................................... 7 SICK CHILDREN POLICY ....................................................................................... 8 SAMPLE PROGRAM PLAN ..................................................................................... 9 TIPS FOR PROGRAM PLANNING ........................................................................... 10 SAMPLE OF A WEEKLY MENU ............................................................................. 11 SAMPLE SICK CHILD POLICY ............................................................................... 12 CHILD CARE AGREEMENT .................................................................................. 13 CHILD CARE AGREEMENT - SAMPLE ...................................................................... 14 POLICY STATEMENT ........................................................................................ 15 SAMPLE CHILD INFORMATION FORM ..................................................................... 16 SAMPLE INFORMATION/CONSENT FORMS............................................................... 18 CCPRN SURVEY OF RATES ................................................................................. 20 CCPRN SURVEY – CONTRACTS, SICK DAYS, LATE FEES ETC. ....................................... 21 LICENSED FAMILY DAYCARE AGENCIES & OTHER RESOURCE ORGANIZATIONS.................. 22 FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRES.............................................................................. 23 CCPRN MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS ........................................................................... 25 POLICE RECORDS CHECK ................................................................................... 26 SMOKE-FREE ONTARIO ACT ............................................................................... 28 NOTES ......................................................................................................... 29

WHO ARE WE? Child Care Providers Resource Network of Ottawa-Carleton is a non-profit, charitable organization, funded by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services and the City of Ottawa. We provide training, information, resources and support to home day care providers and parents in the City of Ottawa. We represent over 800 members.

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to offer training, support, and information services for caregivers and parents to foster the provision of quality child care to increase communication between caregivers and reduce the isolation of their work situation to increase public awareness of family day care to act on behalf of caregivers and to represent their interests and concerns to assist caregivers and programs in other areas in establishing caregiver groups to act as a resource for other programs regarding the provision of services to caregivers and children

WHAT SERVICES DO WE OFFER?  Caregiver Search: CCPRN members can have their contact information added to our database Parents looking for childcare can go to www.ccprn.com to access caregiver information. Any arrangements made are private; CCPRN does not endorse or recommend any of its members.  Start-up sessions: These sessions are designed specifically for those new to caregiving, focusing on administrative concerns, advertising, parent/client interviews, use of written parent/provider agreements, and other information pertinent to family home day care.  Workshops: Workshops on a variety of topics of interest to caregivers are offered on a regular basis in several locations throughout the City. In an average year more than 50 workshops are offered, with attendance totalling over 800. The National Family Child Care Training is offered yearly.  Events for Children: Organized outings for caregivers/parents and children to museum programs, farms etc. as well as musicians, puppeteers, storytellers…  First Aid/CPR: A special child and infant first aid/CPR program is offered by St. John Ambulance for caregivers. Funding from the Government of Ontario allows CCPRN to offer this training free of charge to our members. Non-members will be placed on a waiting list.  Caregiver Support Volunteers offer telephone support and guidance to other members in a given area of expertise (child development & guidance, income tax, programming, etc.).  Newsletters: The Child Care Providers Resource Network of Ottawa-Carleton produces and distributes a bi-monthly newsletter—“Together in Caring” — focusing on child care. These newsletters contain information for caregivers on a wide variety of subjects.  Child Care Connection: Facilitated meetings throughout the City of Ottawa for caregivers and parents to connect. Information and resources are presented to all attending to help create and maintain partnerships. Meeting dates and times are posted on the website www.ccprn.com and in the bi-monthly newsletter.  … And More: The Child Care Providers Resource Network of Ottawa-Carleton also offers evening social events for caregivers as well as volunteer opportunities. Our staff and volunteers are active on advisory and working committees on child care issues at the local level. 1

STARTING YOUR HOME CHILD CARE BUSINESS - WORKSHOPS As a follow-up to this written material, the Child Care Providers Resource Network of Ottawa-Carleton also periodically offers “Starting Your Home Child Care Business”—evening workshops for new or prospective caregivers held at our office. These sessions are led by an experienced Child Care Providers Resource Network of Ottawa-Carleton caregiver or staff member who introduces new caregivers to the administrative side of running a day care. This workshop provides a wonderful opportunity to obtain information and insight and share ideas on all aspects of beginning a family home day care. Dates and locations are advertised in the "Workshops For Caregivers" section of our bi-monthly newsletter and on our website at www.ccprn.com.

INCOME TAX & RECORD KEEPING It is important that you maintain a record of all child care income and expenses for income tax purposes.  1. 2. 3.

Income Keep carbons of receipts to parents. Cash journal - keep a notebook with record of attendance and income. If you work for an agency, keep copies of Agency time sheets for attendance records and cheque stubs for income record to verify T4A. 4. Maintain a calendar with attendance and meals/snacks given for each day. 5. Consider purchasing a specialized ‘family day care calendar’ which provides an area for monthly attendance and expense records. The Manitoba Child Care Association has an excellent calendar – call 1-888-323-4676, email [email protected] or visit www.mccahouse.org/resources.htm to download an order form. Expenses The first and most important thing to remember is to get and keep receipts for everything. Records for your business should be saved for seven years. Try to get receipts for everything you pay out. If a receipt is not available (i.e. bus fare, Dickie Dee ice cream, purchases at a garage sale, etc.) keep a receipt book in your purse, fill it out and ask the seller to sign it. If they are unwilling to do so, sign the receipt yourself. Get in the habit of noting on the back of receipts what was purchased. To maintain your expense records: 1. Develop separate files or envelopes to save receipts in each of your expense categories (i.e., play supplies, etc.) You can total your receipts each week, month or even once a year. File by category not by month. 2. Develop a file system for receipts and a ledger to keep a written record of your expenses on an ongoing basis. 3. The two envelope system: Use two large brown envelopes to maintain your receipts, one for grocery receipts and one for other receipts - sort and add them up when you are preparing your return. 4. Keep a log book for travel. Log the mileage at Jan. 01, and then for all of your day care trips (include trips to the grocery store, workshops, playgroups, etc.), and then log out at Dec. 31st. Keep all repair bills. Then you have a choice of how to claim your mileage at the end of the year. 5. Keep all household maintenance bills – at the end of the year you will be able to claim a percentage of these costs. 

Don't attempt too complicated a bookkeeping system if you are not normally a well-organized person; it will frustrate you and you are unlikely to maintain it. The important thing to remember is to save all your receipts and maintain a record of your income. Note: The Child Care Providers Resource Network of Ottawa-Carleton offers income tax workshops in February and March of each year. Watch your newsletter and/or our website for dates and locations near you. 2

REGISTERING YOUR DAY CARE AS A SMALL BUSINESS Family home day care facilities do not have to be registered as a business with the Ontario government, however if you wish to establish your business and utilize the tax advantages of a small business, you should review this option. If you wish to use a name other than your own on your tax receipts for parents, such as “Hundred Acres Day Care” or if you prefer not to give out your S.I.N. to parents, you should register your business. There are various resources available at the local library or through the province’s self-help offices. Contact the Entrepreneurship Centre at 560-6081 for more details, or Revenue Canada Business Income Tax Inquiries office at 1-800-959-5525.

REGULATIONS GOVERNING FAMILY DAY CARE 1. The number of children that you may care for is determined by the Day Nurseries Act. Under this Act, you may provide care to five children, under the age of 10, per household. This does not preclude you from having more than five day care children, as some of them may be part-time. However, no more than five day care children may be on the premises at the same time. This includes visiting caregivers and their children. During caregiver visits on private premises, the number of day care children may not exceed 5 without a licence. Parents and their children, however, may visit. Your own children (regardless of age) are not included in the total of five. To obtain a copy of the Act, contact the Ministry of Education or visit http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/regs/english/elaws_regs_900262_e.htm. If you are working for a licensed family day care agency, confirm numbers with your home child care consultant. 2. The law requires that all those working in the vulnerable sector (this includes home child care providers) have a current Police Record Check. To obtain this, go to your nearest police station, and they will, for a fee, provide you with this document on yourself. Forms are available at http://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/ServingOttawa/RecordsChecks/index.aspx or page 26 of this guide.

LIABILITY INSURANCE Although insurance is not legally required, in practical terms it is essential to providing child care in your home. Accidents do happen—and if a child is injured while in your care, it is possible you could be liable. It is essential that anyone providing care should ensure their liability insurance (whether homeowner or tenants package) includes coverage of day care children, or that they obtain a separate day care policy. The amount recommended by the Insurance Bureau of Canada is two million dollars per incident. You should: 1. Contact your current insurance company or broker in writing and inform them you are providing child care in your home. Ask what additional coverage is necessary and what charges will apply. Some insurance companies will include a rider on your household policy covering day care children; others offer specific home day care coverage. 2. An increasing number of companies refuse to cover home day care at all or will only cover a limited number of day care children (three in most cases). If your agent tells you the day care children are included in coverage at no additional charge, request (insist if necessary) this information be put in writing. 3. Find out what is covered. Are the children covered when on field trips? When an alternate caregiver is providing care in your home? In the alternate's home? etc. 4. Check to ensure your car insurance will cover day care children when travelling in your car. Ask to get a special rider put on your car insurance. PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE PROPERLY COVERED! 3

SETTING FEES When setting your rates, keep in mind your expenses for food, toys, equipment, etc. are paid from the same fee as your income, so charge an amount that will allow you sufficient income after expenses. Once you have established your rates, set a time each year when you will review (and possibly increase) rates, and let the parents know this is your policy. Like every other working person, you are entitled to increases in your income each year to keep up with the cost of living. You will find it easier to discuss increases with parents if they know how often and when increases can be expected. September is usually a good time of year to increase your rates if you plan to do so, as this is the time when the most changes occur in your day care home (i.e. children starting school, etc.). To decide how much to charge for care you should consider the following:  The going rates in your area: Every two years the Child Care Providers Resource Network of OttawaCarleton surveys its membership to determine the daily rates being charged across the City of Ottawa. 2010 Survey rates are found on page 20. Setting competitive rates is a consideration.  Your training and experience: This will also be a factor in deciding how much you can charge.  The type of service you are providing: Your service will affect how much parents are willing to pay. If you are providing a fairly structured program of activities and outings for the day care children, parents are often willing to pay higher rates.  The number and ages of children you are caring for: For example, the person specializing in infant care and caring for only one or two children would likely have higher fees than the individual providing care to four or five preschool or school-aged children.  Before you begin advertising, determine the rates you will charge in any of the following situations that may apply to your business: o Full-Day Rate (up to 10 hours of care) for infant/toddlers, pre-schoolers, school-aged (you may decide to have a flat-day rate regardless of the age of the child) o Kindergarten Rate (6 to 7.5 hours of care) o Half-Day Rate (4 to 5.5 hours of care) o Hourly Rate

INITIAL TELEPHONE CONTACT If the initial contact with prospective parents/clients is made by telephone, this is the time for you to explain the basic service you provide and your general expectations of the parents. Some matters you will want to discuss: o available vacancy in your day care home for the child(ren) o location o hours of care o cost o number of children in your care, their ages, as well as information about your own children o a little bit about yourself and the type of care you provide o special concerns that the parent might have, i.e. pets, special diet, etc. o a convenient interview time

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THE INTERVIEWS First Interview—without the child  After greeting the parents, show them your home...point out safety features, play areas, where the children will eat and sleep. Don't forget the outdoor play area.  If the child is present, interest him/her in an activity.  Use your contract to structure the interview.  Answer questions parents might have - BE PREPARED.  Review safety checklist if not done during tour of home.  Give more details regarding your program, the child's daily activities, etc.  Obtain information regarding the child's health, daily routine, favourite foods, activities, etc.  Complete an information sheet about the child (a sample is provided in this package).  Show parents letters of reference and/or give them references (names and telephone numbers of parents whose children are currently or were formerly in your care).  Set a date for acceptance or refusal by both parties. Second Interview—with the child  Get acquainted with child/children.  Sign all contracts, permission forms, etc. See page 14 for a sample agreement.  Receive "retainer" fee, if applicable.  Set date that the child will begin attending your day care.

ADVERTISING When seeking children to provide care for, try some or all of the following: Check parent ads in local newspapers, community newspapers, and notices posted on bulletin boards. Place your own ads in papers. Design an attractive flyer with all pertinent data (location of your home, phone number, ages of children you are interested in and some of the activities you may offer). Draw an attractive picture onto flyer and colour (or have your children colour) it in. Distribute your flyer to libraries, community centres, playgroups and supermarkets. Contact personnel in local churches, employment centres, businesses, hospitals, paediatricians’ offices and medical clinics. Call the La Leche League, the Welcome Wagon, the Block Parent Association, the Public Health Unit (they make post-natal visits), and Canada Employment Centre to see if they will keep your name on file or post your flyers. Contact office staff at local schools to see if they know of parents seeking care or if they keep a list of caregivers. Let friends, relatives and neighbours know you are providing care and ask them to pass the word around. Distribute your flyers to moms in the local park. If they don't have children needing care, they may know of someone who does. Put flyers on windshields of cars with car seats in nearby shopping centre parking lots. Have a teenager distribute your flyers in his/her newspaper rounds. Also, have attractive business cards made to distribute on the spot from your purse. Develop a name for your day care home, for example: "Pooh Corner", "Kid's Den", or "Little Log Cabin Home Day Care".

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Some sample advertisements:

Kidcare Daycare Home Has two openings for children one to three years. Your tot can have fun-filled days, creative crafts and activities, healthy snacks and meals with a loving, experienced caregiver. Call 123-4567.

Greenbank/Baseline Rd. Experienced caregiver with first aid certificate & courses in child development will care for children 3 and up. Excellent references, call 123-4567.

Consider developing your own website.

FREE ADVERTISING WEBSITES Craig’s List http://ottawa.en.craigslist.ca Day Care Bear http://www.daycarebear.ca Day Care Canada htttp://www.daycarecanada.com Day Care Match http://www.daycarematch.com Family Care Connection http://www.familycareconnection.ca Go Day Care http://www.godaycare.com Kijiji http://www.ottawa.kijiji.ca Looking For Daycare http://www.looking4daycare.com Ontario Day Care http://www.ontariodaycare.ca Ottawa Day Care http://www.ottawadaycare.com Parent Relief http://www.parentrelief.com Used Ottawa http://www.usedottawa.com

Some of these have the option of paying for advertising, some charge for putting your website address; some just require you to update your information on a regular basis.

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HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST The following list provides basic guidelines only:  An emergency phone number list is beside every phone in the home and includes numbers for: Fire Department / Hospital / Poison Control Centre / Doctor / Police Department / Day Care Parents/Neighbour or back-up caregiver / Ambulance, if available, or other emergency transport (i.e. taxi) / Home Day Care Agency, if applicable.  Smoke detectors are on every floor of the home in appropriate locations and are tested regularly.  Fire extinguishers are checked regularly to ensure they are fully charged.  Fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and space heaters are properly screened.  Electrical outlets are covered with safety plugs.  Electrical cords and plugs are in good condition.  Flashlights, a transistor radio and batteries are on hand in case of power outages.  Stereos and televisions are against walls to prevent children from getting at wiring.  Power circuits are not overloaded by plugging too many items into the same circuit.  Cleaning products, insecticides, medications, etc., are stored out of children's reach, preferably under lock and key.  Plastic grocery and garbage bags are stored out of reach.  Pot handles are turned toward the centre of the stove. Back burners are used as much as possible.  Scissors, knives and other sharp items are kept out of reach of children.  Hot water temperature does not exceed 48 °C.  Freezers are locked.  Glass or other knickknacks/decorations that might be breakable or dangerous are out of reach.  Cigarettes, matches and lighters are out of children's reach.  Safety pins, needles, beads and other small objects are out of children's reach.  Alcohol is stored out of children's reach.  Perfumes, after-shaves, personal hygiene products and cosmetics are out of reach.  Stairways are uncluttered and well-lit.  Drapery and window blind cords are taped/secured out of children's reach.  There is no peeling paint or splinters on furnishings or woodwork.  Paint used on children's furnishings is lead-free.  Children's toys are in good repair (no sharp edges, loose parts or parts small enough for a child to swallow).  Decorative decals are fixed on glass doors so children don't bump into or walk through them.  Sharp edges on furnishings are covered with padding.  High latches are on all doors that children should not use.  Furnace and hot water tank are inaccessible.  Plastic bags are not used underneath sheets to waterproof beds (use fitted plastic sheets or mattress pads).  Indoor garbage cans have secure lids.  Diaper pails have secure lids.  Children are never left unattended on a changing table.  Safety straps are used on changing table and high chair.  Household pets are inoculated against rabies and distemper.  The home is free of poisonous plants or they are out of children's reach.  Guns are kept in locked cabinets and ammunition is stored in a separate locked place. If you keep firearms in your home, ensure that they are stored in accordance with the requirements of Canada's New Firearm Control Law (Jan. 1993, Dept. of Justice).  Children are never allowed unattended on a balcony and doors to balcony are securely fastened.  Scatter rugs or loose carpets are secured to floor with double-sided carpet tape.  Fully equipped first aid kit is accessible. Portable first aid kit is accessible for outings.  Be wary of second-hand cribs and playpens—ensure they meet current standards. 7

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STAIRCASES can pose real hazards to children. As soon as children are mobile, teach them to safely climb up and down stairs. Until children can handle stairs safely, keep the staircases blocked off. When using safety gates, ensure they meet current safety standards and that they are properly installed. FIRE SAFETY: develop an evacuation plan for your home, and plan how you would evacuate the children in any circumstance. Have fire drills regularly with the children, your family members and back-up caregiver. If your local fire department provides the service, have them inspect your home for safety hazards. OUTDOOR SAFETY: whether in your own backyard or a public park, outdoor safety is still your responsibility. Be alert to hazards like broken glass, sharp sticks, poisonous plants, strange animals, etc., etc., etc.! Teach children traffic safety rules. If you have a full-sized swimming pool, ensure that it is properly fenced and kept safely locked. Even covered pools can pose hazards (children may assume it is safe to walk on the pool cover) so ensure the pool area is always locked. AUTO SAFETY: some basic guidelines: Use proper restraints for everyone in your car, including the driver! Do not use second-hand car seats. Never leave children unattended in a car, even for a moment. Develop a routine for entering and leaving the car. For example, have children line up touching the car until everyone is inside and buckled up, or out of the car and ready to go. Children should always exit the car on the curb side. HEALTH/SMOKING: for those working through a licensed Agency it is a bylaw infraction for anyone to smoke in a home day care – at any time. For all those in Ontario it is a law that no one smoke in a car with a child under 16. See page 28 for a copy of the Smoke-Free Ontario Act.

SICK CHILDREN POLICY There may be times when a child is too ill to come to your home. He or she may be too ill to participate in activities; may be contagious to the other children; or, may need more care and attention than you can provide without compromising the care of the other children. If you have questions about a child’s health, or for up-to-date health information, call Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744. A sample of a sick child policy can be found on page 12. It suggests some of the groundwork which you should cover with parents at the beginning of the child care arrangement. Emphasize the fact that it’s best to keep children home when they’re sick not only to aid in their recovery, but for the sake of the other children in your group. If parents have a clear understanding of the guidelines you have established—and why—in your day care home, it will go a long way towards preventing problems around this issue from arising.

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SAMPLE PROGRAM PLAN The following outline is provided as a sample of how you might organize your daily schedule. But remember…it is just a suggested outline. Children's ages, moods and how you're feeling must be considered in planning. Younger children may nap both morning and afternoon. School-aged children may find circle time too childish. They may need longer periods for arts and crafts or outdoor play. They may find 1/2 hour for clean-up and snack unnecessary. If they are very involved in their projects they should be allowed to keep working in lieu of moving on to another activity. Be flexible in your approach and experiment with different activities at different times until you find what works best. 7:00 to 9:00

Arrival time - quiet individual activities such as books, puzzles, colouring and free choice of toys. Children structuring their own play give the provider time to get older children off to school, tidy up from breakfast and prepare snack and craft for later in the morning.

9:00 to 9:30

Tidy up, toilet and hand washing, then Snack and Circle time (story, songs and discussion).

9:30 to 10:00

Craft activity

10:00 to 11:00 Outdoor play 11:00 to 11:45 Inside

for toilet and wash-up, then free choice of activities, television, etc. while provider prepares lunch.

11:45 to 12:30 Lunchtime 12:30- to 1:00 Story-time or other wind-down activity 1:00 to 3:00

Naptime - older children quiet time with books, story tapes, etc.

3:00 to 3:30

Wake-up, toilet and wash-up, then Snack

3:30 - 4:00

Group activity such as play-dough, unstructured craft activity, etc.

4:00 - 5:00

Continuation of group activity or outdoor play or free play indoors until pick-up

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TIPS FOR PROGRAM PLANNING 

Keep your plans simple. The best plans are the ones that allow the most flexibility.

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Allow sufficient time for preparation and clean-up.

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Try to schedule free play (or at least activities requiring minimum supervision) for times when you will be occupied such as when you are preparing lunch.

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Transition times (drop-offs, pick-ups, etc.) are often the most hectic periods of the day. Have a variety of quiet activities (puzzles, books, table toys) available for the children at these times.

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Plan a quiet group activity for the period before nap.

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Providing snack at story time keeps little ones sitting down and listening.

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Always be prepared to change your plans if something unexpected happens. Observing and having a discussion about a construction crew working on your street can be as interesting and enriching to preschoolers as a craft or story.

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Don't be intimidated by the idea of programming. Remember, on a busy day, creative play can be as simple as colouring on a blank paper.

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Programming is not reading, writing and arithmetic. The most important "thing" you can teach a child is the joy of exploring and enjoying the world around them. Offer the children a variety of materials; make use of the environment around them, encourage them and praise their efforts. Let them make decisions and help you plan their days.

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Children need fresh air and active play – running, jumping, active games … keep the television time limited and keep the children moving as much as possible.

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Note: There are many resource centres in our area that may be of interest to you as home day care providers. Please see page 23 of this guide.

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SAMPLE OF A WEEKLY MENU The following menu is an example of some easily prepared and well-balanced snacks and lunches, as well as toddler serving sizes.

SNACK

LUNCH

SNACK

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Cereal with banana slices and milk

Bran muffins Seasonal fruit pieces

Toast Peanut butter/nut replacement Milk

Granola bars Apple pieces

Oatmeal with raisins Orange slices

Tuna with cheese on whole wheat bread sandwiches Carrot/cucumber slices Milk Ice cream cones

Mini pizzas (made with English muffins, sauce & grated mozzarella & assorted toppings Raw vegetables Milk Caramel pudding

Salmon on whole wheat toast Celery stuffed with cheese whiz Milk Yoghurt with granola on top

Pancakes with yogurt Milk Fresh fruit

Mini pitas filled with egg, tuna, or ham and a lettuce leaf Milk Fruit salad

Fresh fruit with cheese chunks

Apples stuffed with peanut butter and sliced Milk

Oatmeal/raisin cookies Fruit juice

Yogurt popsicles (blend ½ juice & ½ yoghurt, then freeze) Breadsticks

Rice Krispie squares Fruit juice

ottawa.ca/health

Remember food allergies should be discussed with parents during the initial interview to determine if there are any foods which should be avoided. Have parents introduce new foods to toddlers if there is a family history of allergies. Finally, post menus for parents to see what the children will be eating during the day. This encourages parents to offer suggestions of their child’s likes and dislikes.

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SAMPLE SICK CHILD POLICY HEALTH GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS When is a child too sick or contagious to be brought to my day care home? This is a question that may present itself, and in order to protect your child and the other children, I have set up some guidelines on illnesses. As your child's caregiver, if at any time I feel your child is too sick or contagious, I do have the option of not allowing your child into the day care home. Please have a friend, neighbour or family member on call to care for your child in the event that you cannot because the child is ill. A separate, signed consent form and record sheet is required for each prescription and every over-the-counter (OTC) medication or product such as sunscreen. Holistic preparations (vitamins, etc.) are considered medication so should be given at home whenever possible. All medication should be in the original container and when possible, get the pharmacy to fill two bottles so one can stay at your home - diminishing the problem of a skipped dose. PLEASE KEEP YOUR CHILD AT HOME IF SHE/HE HAS:     

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Rectal temperature of over 101 in the morning; Conjunctivitis, which is an eye infection commonly referred to as "pink eye". The eye is generally red with some burning and there is thick yellow drainage being secreted; Bronchitis, which can begin with hoarseness, cough and a slight elevation in temperature. The cough may be dry and painful, but it gradually becomes productive; Rashes that you cannot identify or that have not been diagnosed by a physician; Impetigo of the skin - it shows up as red pimples. These eventually become small vesicles surrounded by a reddened area. When the blister breaks, the surface is raw and weeping. The lesions occur in moist areas of the body such as the crease of the neck, groin and underarm, face, hands or edge of diaper area; Diarrhea which is watery or greenish bowel movements that look different and are much more frequent than usual; Vomiting; Severe cold with fever, sneezing and nose drainage; If a child seems really sick without obvious symptoms. In this case a child may look or act differently. There may be unusual paleness, irritability, unusual tiredness or listlessness; With contagious diseases, a child must be kept at home. Some of these are: measles, chicken pox, mumps, roseola; If a doctor diagnoses an ear or throat infection, for example, and places the child on an antibiotic, the child should not be brought in until she/he has had medication for 24 hours.

PLEASE KEEP ME INFORMED AS TO YOUR CHILD'S HEALTH STATUS. I am concerned about your child's well-being and wish to provide the best environment possible for her/him and the other children in my care.

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CHILD CARE AGREEMENT Should Contain:  Name of Provider  Names of Parents  Name of Child/Children for whom care is to be provided  Location and phone # where care is to be provided Could Contain:  Anything you feel is important  Brief biography describing your experience in child care and any relevant training. Caregiver Responsibilities Should Contain:  Provision of a safe, child-proof environment  Meals and snacks that you are providing  What child care equipment is provided by you  Hours of care and days of care (including or excluding statutory holidays)  Agreement concerning payment, alternate care arrangements and notification in the case of your illness  Income Tax receipts  Agreement and notification for termination of care Could Contain:  Brief statement of your child-rearing philosophy including your views and practices respecting: feeding, toilet training, nap times, discipline and programming e.g. discipline: I use time out, withdrawal of privileges, firm voice, etc. to help children learn appropriate behaviour.  Usual activities of the day (naptime, mealtime, outdoor activities)  Any additional programming activities (storytime, arts and crafts, circle time) Parent Responsibilities Should Contain:  Rate and frequency of payment  Sick children policy  Clothing, food or equipment to be provided by parents  Medication policy  Completed required information and permission sheets before commencement of care. Authorization forms for medication treatment and field trips not only help you avoid problems but also provide legal protection for you.  Agreement for termination of care. Could contain:  List of conditions when parents should notify caregiver including late arrivals, sickness, change in address, phone #, employment or emergency information  Parents should bring complaints, problems and concerns directly to provider  Deposit if required as holding fee  List of all statutory holidays  Parents are to communicate to provider any changes/circumstances that will affect child’s health and well-being (death in the family)

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CHILD CARE AGREEMENT - SAMPLE The following agreement is made between: Parent (s): Provider:

______________________________________________________________________________ and ______________________________________________________________________

Address:

______________________________________________________________________

Phone Numbers:

________________________ (Home) _________________________________ (Work)

For the Care of:

______________________________________________________________________

Caregiver’s Responsibilities: This agreement is for a one year period from ___________________ to _________________________ Childcare will be provided from ____________a.m. to _____________ p.m. Days of care agreed upon _____________________________________________________________ Provision of a safe, child proof environment. Daily fee will include lunch and a morning and afternoon snack. Caregiver will notify parents as soon as possible if she is unable to provide care due to illness, appointments, etc. Payment is not required. Caregiver will provide receipts monthly / weekly / yearly. Caregiver will provide two weeks’ notice to terminate this agreement. Parent’s Responsibilities: Payment is expected whether child is in attendance or not (payment by enrolment). Payment will not vary due to statutory holidays, child’s illness, or parent holidays. Payment is not expected when caregiver is not available. Weekly fee will be $____________. Payment will be daily / weekly / bi-weekly. Parents to provide diapers, baby food, formula and change of clothing. Sick children will remain at home if they have a fever, a known contagious illness, or are vomiting. Parents are to complete the required information and permission sheets before commencement of care. Parents to provide two weeks’ notice to terminate this agreement. We, the undersigned, agree to all the provisions of this agreement. Date: _________________________ ___________________________________________________ Caregiver ___________________________________________________ Parent(s) ___________________________________________________ Witness 14

POLICY STATEMENT A policy statement is information about your child care policies. When in written form, it is presented to potential day care parents during the interview. Remain authentic and true to yourself when writing your policies, and make sure they reflect your values and lifestyle. Always be honest, and give an honest impression of your views and practices. Your home day care is unique, so your policies should demonstrate your personal approach to your business. Finally, during your interview your policy statement helps direct the conversation and assures that you cover every point, showing the parents that you have given a great deal of thought to your business. Should Contain: 1. Brief (one paragraph) biography, describing your experience in child care and any relevant training. 2. Brief (one or two paragraphs) statement of your child-rearing philosophy e.g. what quality or qualities do you feel are most important to develop in children and how do you feel that you can develop those qualities. 3. Your views and practices respecting: Feeding: (examples) Meal times should be relaxed and informal and children should be encouraged but never forced to try new foods. Or children should be encouraged from an early age to develop table manners. It’s important that meal-time be a time to eat and not to talk, play, sing, etc. Toilet Training: (examples) I’ve developed very effective means of toilet training and feel all children should be out of diapers by the time they are about 30 months. Or I feel each child is ready for toilet training at different times. When we notice signs of physical readiness, let’s talk about a plan for training. Nap Times: (examples) I feel it is very important that every pre-schooler rests/sleeps for 1 ½ hours every day. Or each child’s need for sleep varies, so I’m flexible in adjusting my routine for those who require more, less or no sleep. Discipline: (examples) I use time out, withdrawal of privileges, firm voice, explanation of consequences, etc. to help children develop appropriate behaviour. Illness Policy: (examples) A child will not be permitted at day care if he/she has a fever over 101°F, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. (refer to page 18 for a sample Sick Child Policy) May Contain: Anything you feel is important! For example: Toys: (examples) Please leave special toys at home. We are very well-equipped and children find it very difficult to share a favourite item with the other children. Or sharing special toys from home teaches the children cooperation and turn taking. Parental Involvement: (examples) I like parents to feel part of our day care home. You will occasionally be invited to participate in special events with the children and I hope that you can. I’ll also keep you informed about on-going projects. These lists are not inclusive. Think carefully about yourself, your home and your style and incorporate these into your personal Policy statement. 15

SAMPLE CHILD INFORMATION FORM GENERAL INFORMATION Child's name _____________________________________

Date of birth __________________

Mother's occupation _______________________________________ Father's occupation _________________________________________ Names of others in household: ___________________________ Relationship to child ___________________________ Relationship to child

______________ ______________

Language spoken at home _____________________ Special words ___________________________________________________________________________________ Please describe any special problems, concerns or upsets you have had with your child which would help me understand him/her better. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ If your child has any specific fears or reactions, please describe them and how you have handled them. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Have there been any major changes in your family recently? Family move? Separation or divorce? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Has your child been cared for by someone other than you? What kind of care? Own home? Someone else's home? Centre? How did your child adjust to this care? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ With what age children is he/she used to playing? _____________________________________________________ Describe your child's personality (check where applicable): Affectionate ____ Sensitive ____ Social ____ Shy ____ Restless ____ Demanding ____ Quiet ____ Active ____ Quick ____ Cuddly ____ Impatient ____

INFANT INFORMATION SLEEP ROUTINES: Nap Times (Approximate) AM: _________ to _________ PM: _________ to _________ Background Information: Light on: Yes ____ No ____ Bedroom door: Closed ____ Open ____ Ajar ____ Special toys, music, comfort items: _________________________________________ Monitor on: Yes ____ No ____ Sleeps in parent's room ____ own room ____ shared room ____ Readjusts sleeping patterns easily: Yes ____ No ____ Sleeps lightly ____ soundly ____ restlessly ____ Child is rocked ____ patted ____ sung to sleep ____ Other: ___________________________________________________________ 16

FEEDING ROUTINES: Feeding Times (Approximate) Time AM: PM:

_____ _____ _____ _____

Feeding Methods: Bottle: Cup: Spoon:

Type of Food

Quantity

__________________ __________________ __________________ __________________

_______________ _______________ _______________ _______________

Yes ____ No ____ Yes ____ No ____ Yes ____ No ____

Appetite: Good ____ Poor ____ Fussy eater ____ Feeding Position: For bottle: __________________________ For food*: ____________________________

SOILING, WETTING AND DRESSING: Usual number of diapers during normal caregiving hours _____________ Rash: Yes ____ No ____ Treatment: _____________ Usual type of BM: Hard ____ Soft ____ Very soft ____ Special concerns: ___________________________________________________ Vomits, spits up: A little ____ A lot ____ Not at all ____ Drools: A little ____ A lot ____ Not at all ____

DEVELOPMENT: YES

NO

Sits alone ____ ____ Stands alone ____ ____ Crawls ____ ____ Walks ____ ____ Climbs stairs: ____ ____ Thumb & finger grasp ____ ____ Some words ____ ____ Reactions to loud noises: _____________________________________________________ Reactions to strangers: _______________________________________________________ Other: _____________________________________________________________________ Child’s Daily Routine _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

SCHOOL-AGE CHILD INFORMATION Name of School: ____________________________________________ School Hours: __________________ Bus Information: ____________________________________________ or Does the child walk alone ______ or will I be escorting him/her _____________ Will the child be permitted to play at friends’ homes after school? ___________ 17

SAMPLE INFORMATION/CONSENT FORMS The following sample information and consent forms are for use when taking children into care. The forms should be completed by the parent or guardian prior to starting care. Family Last Name: _____________________________ Child’s Name: ______________________________ Child’s Birth Date: _______________________________ Health Card#:_______________________________ Child’s Physician: ________________________________ Phone Number____________________________ Mother’s Name: ________________________Work #:____________________ Cell #:____________________ Father’s Name: ________________________ Work #:____________________ Cell #:___________________ Emergency Medical Treatment: In the event of an emergency when I cannot be reached, I authorize the administration of any medical procedures deemed necessary by my doctor, or if unavailable, by any other physician selected by my caregiver. Date: __________________________ Parent (s):

____________________________________________ ___________________________________________

Caregiver:

___________________________________________

................................................................................................................................ Child’s Health Record: General Status of Health: _____________________________________________________________________________ Immunization Record: (attach copy of dates of immunization) Known Allergies or Other Pertinent Information: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Commencement of Care: __________________________________ Parent/Guardian: _______________________________ ________________________________________ (Signature) (Signature) ................................................................................................................................ Transportation Permission: I hereby give _________________________________ permission to take my child/children __________________________ on field trips or other outings using a car, bus, taxi or on foot. Date: ____________________________________ Parent/Guardian: _________________________________ (Signature) ................................................................................................................................ Authority & Release Form: This form may be used for an older child who walks home unescorted at the end of the day care day. I, ______________________________________, parent or legal guardian of _________________________, hereby authorizes the said child to leave the day care home of ___________________________________ unescorted at _______p.m. to return home. I hereby release and relieve __________________________ from any & all responsibility for and in respect to the said child after leaving the day care home as stated. Date: _________________________ Parent/Guardian: ___________________________________________ (Signature)

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Authority & Release Form: This form may be used for a school age child who walks to and from school unescorted. I, _____________________________________, parent or legal guardian of ________________________, hereby release _______________________________ who is my child’s day care provider, from responsibility for my child after he/she has left her home to go to school until his/her return to her home. Date: ___________________________ Parent/Guardian: ______________________________________ (Signature) ................................................................................................................................ Outdoor Play Agreement: This form may be used for children over five years of age who may want to play outdoors without supervision, visit a friend’s home, etc. Child’s Name: ________________________________________________ Age: ___________________ Supervision Required: _______________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ Restrictions: ______________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ Friends’ Names ________________________________________ Phone Numbers: _____________________ Friends’ Names ________________________________________ Phone Numbers: _____________________ Friends’ Names ________________________________________ Phone Numbers: _____________________ Date: ___________________________ Parent / Guardian: _________________________________________ (Signature) ................................................................................................................................

Medication authorization (parent to fill out and sign) Signature of parent/guardian: ____________________________________Date:_______________________ Medication administered by caregiver: ________________________________________________ Child’s Name: __________________________________________________ Prescribed by: ________________________________ Phone#__________________ Medication name: ______________________________________________________ For the treatment of: ____________________________________________________ Special instructions: _____________________________________________________ Dosage: ______________________________________________________ Times to be given: ______________________________________________ Start date: ________________________ End date: ___________________________ Observations/side effects: _______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Caregiver will not administer any over the counter medications such as decongestants, cough syrups, acetaminophen, ASA, holistic preparations as recommended by the Canadian Paediatric Society. *All medications must be in the original container.

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CCPRN SURVEY OF RATES (2014)

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CCPRN SURVEY CONTRACTS, SICK DAYS, LATE FEES ETC.

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LICENSED FAMILY DAYCARE AGENCIES & OTHER RESOURCE ORGANIZATIONS

East Global Child Care Services

613-742-5500

West Community Child Care of Ottawa City View Centre for Child and Family Services Wee Watch (Nepean) Wee Watch (Kanata)

613-592-4636 613-823-7088 613-825-9425 613-591-1016

Central Parents’ Home Child Care

613-233-1597 ext. 200

Central - East Andrew Fleck Home Child Care Wee Watch (Ottawa East/Orleans) La Maisonée

613-736-5355 613-834-9760 613-789-3020

Central - West Canadian Mothercraft Centrepointe Home Child Care Children's Village of Ottawa-Carleton Municipal Home Child Care

613-728-1839 613-225-0871 613-725-2040 613-580-2424 ext. 24104

Rural Tot Lot Licensed Childcare (Manotick) Prescott/Russell Private Home Day Care Stormont/Dundas Private Home Day Care Metcalfe Private Home Day Care

613-727-0010 613-632-5675 613-933-1578 613-821-2899

First Nations Odawa Sweetgrass Native Home Child Care

613-722-3811

Child Care Information (CCI) Information on all child care options in the Ottawa area (day care centres, Centralized Waiting List, nursery schools, family day care agencies, etc.) 613-248-3605

Child Care Subsidy Office Subsidized day care spaces are available based on eligibility for ages between 6 months to 9 years for parents residing in the Ottawa-Carleton area. Refer parents to the City of Ottawa Child Care Subsidy Office 613-580-9696, or visit www.childcareinformation.ca

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FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRES There are many resource centres in our area that offer a number of services which may be of interest to you as home day care providers…services may include toy-lending libraries, drop-in playgroups (some set aside playgroup mornings especially for caregivers), newsletters, evening workshops, resource libraries, mobile toy-lending services for rural caregivers, etc. Call the centre closest to you and inquire about their caregiver services.

Central Les Services à l'enfance GRANDIR ensemble Programme Carrousel, 5, ave. Myrand (613) 789-3020, poste 231 Odawa Native Friendship Centre, Family Support Centre, 12 Stirling Ave. (613) 722-3811, ext. 232 OEYC Ottawa Centre, Canadian Mothercraft of Ottawa-Carleton, 475 Evered St. (613) 728-1839 OEYC Ottawa-Vanier, Vanier Community Service Centre, 290 Dupuis St. (613) 744-2892 Parent Resource Centre, 300 Goulburn Private (613) 565-2467 * maintains an updated list of playgroups Sacred Child Program, Minwaashin Lodge, 424 Catherine St. (613) 741-5590 x234 Tungasuvvingat Inuit Family Resource Centre, 230 McArthur Ave. (613) 749-4500

East Centre préscolaire Coccinelle d'Orléans, 261 Tompkins Ave. (613) 824-4544 Charlemagne Preschool Resource Centre, 750 Charlemagne Blvd. (613) 834-0081 Children's Welcome Centre (613) 834-7075 Global Child Care Services, multiple locations (613) 742-5500 Military Family Resource Centre, Rockcliffe (613) 998-4888 OEYC Ottawa-Orléans, Orléans-Cumberland Community Resource Centre, 210 Centrum Blvd, Suite 102 (613) 834-9620

South OEYC Nepean Carleton, City View Centre for Child and Family Services, 1099 Longfields Dr. (613) 825-5990 OEYC Ottawa South, Andrew Fleck Child Care Services, 2330 Don Reid Dr. (613) 737-6369 Barrhaven Family Resource Centre, 56 Kennevale Dr. (613) 825-9385 Child and Parent Airport Centre, 15 de Niverville Dr. (613) 998-4888 Military Family Resource Centre, 330 Croil St., Uplands (613) 998-4888 Live and Learn Resource Centre, Metcalfe (613) 821-2899

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West Katimavik Preschool Resource Centre, 180 Katimavik Rd. (613) 591-6030 OEYC Carleton, Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre, 2 MacNeil Court (613) 591-3686 Carlington Community and Health Services Centre, 900 Merivale Rd. (613) 722-4000 OEYC Ottawa West/Nepean, Pinecrest-Queensway Health and Community Services, 1365 Richmond Rd. (613) 820-4922 Centrepointe Early Childhood Resource Centre, 75 Hemmingwood Way (613) 225-4819 Children's Village of Ottawa-Carleton, 333 Churchill Ave. N. (613) 725-2040

Parent & Family Literacy Centres The Parenting and Family Literacy Centres are open on school days to children 0 – 6 years of age and their parents/caregivers. The programs are free of charge and a light nutritious snack is provided. The centres are playbased drop-in environments where children and their parents/caregivers can focus on literacy, numeracy, school readiness, and explore community resources. Ottawa Catholic School Board ~ For information, call 613-613-224-4455 ext. 2382 Divine Infant Catholic School 8100 Jeanne D’Arc Blvd, Orleans 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel School 675 Gardenvale Rd, Ottawa 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Prince of Peace School 1620 Heatherington Rd, Ottawa 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

St. Elizabeth School 1366 Coldrey Ave, Ottawa 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Ottawa-Carleton District School Board ~ For information, call 613-596-8211 ext. 3207 Hilson Avenue Public School 407 Hilson Avenue 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Severn Avenue Public School 2553 Severn Avenue 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Charles H. Hulse Public School 2605 Alta Vista Drive 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Cambridge Street Community Public School 250 Cambridge Street North 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Featherston Drive Public School 1801 Featherston Drive 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Queen Mary Street Public School 557 Queen Mary Street 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

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CCPRN MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

STORE DISCOUNTS 5% discount at Mrs. Tiggy Winkle’s on regular-priced items. 10% discount on phone orders, and 15% hostess credit on Discovery Toys 10% discount on Story Time Felt and 15% on orders over $250.00. 5% discount at La Grenouille Verte (with a minimum purchase of $50) 15% off books at Le coin du Livre 33% education discount off regular priced items at Wallack’s Art Stores 15% Membership privilege at My Toy Shop 15% off new items; 50% consignment commission at Boomerang Kids

OUTINGS AND PLAY PLACES Cosmic Adventures provides an ongoing caregiver’s special for CCPRN members A Gym Tale Special Discount days for members Special Discounts at the Canada Agriculture Museum, the Canada Aviation Museum and the Canada Science and Technology Museum. Tiny Hoppers Discounts for members And many more!

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POLICE RECORDS CHECK

26

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SMOKE-FREE ONTARIO ACT

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NOTES

Child Care Providers Resource Network of Ottawa-Carleton 30 Colonnade Road, Unit 275 Ottawa, ON K2E 7J6 www.ccprn.com [email protected] 29