Little River Child Development

Center Parent Handbook

Rev. July 2015

Non-discrimination PolicyFor the Child and Adult Care Food Program

At Little River Child Development CenterIn accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

To file a complaint, write:USDA, Director Office of Civil Rights,1400 Independence Avenue, SWWashington, DC 20250-9410

Or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD)

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Mission Statement

It is our goal at Little River Child Development Center (LRCDC) to provide a well-maintained and stable environment for your child(ren). We are a child care facility that was developed to offer families the highest standards in care for their child(ren). These standards include cleanliness, personable, and qualified staff, educationally based materials and a welcoming environment. We, at LRCDC, meet these standards by maintaining positive expectations of the care and support we provide for your child, as well as being an active participant in the growth and development of your child.

Cleanliness: LRCDC is cleaned daily. Toys, chairs, floors, and bedding are sanitized as needed.

Personable and Qualified Staff: The staff here at LRCDC has gone through extensive background checks by the facility. Each staff member is a qualified child care worker and realizes the importance of the role they play in the activities of your child’s daily life.

Educationally Based Materials: All of the materials provided here at LRCDC have an educational base, this means that while your child is playing, he or she is also learning. The children are able to experience at an early age that learning is fun.

Welcoming experience: We take pride in offering quality child care to all of our children in a well-maintained and stable environment. Our environment here at LRCDC is designed to help the children in their day-to-day learning and to stimulate them as individuals.

Hours of Operation Monday- Friday 7:00am-6:00pm Children picked up after 6:00 pm WILL be charged a late fee of $2.00 per late minute, per child. This late

payment is expected to be paid when the child(ren) are picked up. We also ask that you do not pick up or drop off your children between the hours of 11am and 2pm, as it

tends to disrupt our daily lunch and nap schedule. This disrupts the center on multiple levels, most importantly the care of the other children in the class.

Vacation After 12 months of enrollment there is a vacation allowance of 1 week per year, per child. Your child’s spot will be held, without charge of tuition during this time. It also must be a week of consecutive days, and may not be broken into separate days spread out. The child must not be in attendance. This vacation time is for full-time clients only.

Tuition and FeesChildren ages 6 weeks to 36 months: $140.00 per week Children ages 3 years to 5 years: $130.00 per weekSummer Care for Children over 5 years: $110.00 per weekAfter school for 5 years-12 years: $55.00 per week

If you are on auto pay, there will be a $5.00 discount. The card on file will be charged on the first day that the center is open for the week for the following week. See Ashley to sign up.

Tuition is charged every week on Mondays, and is considered late after Friday. If it is not paid by the end of the day Friday your child may NOT return to the center until it has been paid along with any applicable late fee. Tuition does NOT change if your child is absent, or a schedule school vacation falls within that week. Tuition is already figured to include these scheduled closings. Tuition does not change if the center is closed due to an act of god (i.e., damage to the building to make it unsafe for the children, weather situations, etc.) Unfortunately, even if we are not here we do incur expenses to maintain the center during that time.Registration: $50.00 one-time registration feeReturned Check fee: $30.00Late or Partial Payment Fee: $5.00 a week for each week it is late

We also now require a valid debit or credit card # on file. This card will only be ran at 6:00pm on Friday if the week’s tuition has not been paid by then.

LRCDC accepts Cash, Check, Debit, Visa, and Master Cards, as well as money orders for payment. We are also an ABC provider.

If the said amount is not paid, you will be sent a certified letter for the amount you owe. If there is no response within 5 days, you will be turned over to the courts for collection. You are also responsible for fees charged for these actions.

Requirements for Entrance1) Children MUST have a current immunization record signed by a licensed physician. The immunization

record must be on the South Carolina Certificate of Immunization Sheet that is provided by your child’s doctor’s office, or health department.

2) Completed enrollment form3) Complete Health Record4) Complete CACFP Application (Food Service)

Snacks & Meals

Every child, age appropriate, will be given breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack. Water is available throughout the day as needed/requested by your child. Menus are posted in each classroom as well as in the lobby. *If your child has allergies, sensitivities or restrictions to any food, drink, or other substance, we ask that you make that known to us prior to enrollment. Additionally if a specific brand or type of dairy product is what you prefer your child be given (ie. organic, almond milk, lactose free, soy free, etc.) then you will be responsible for bringing in that product.)

Naps & Rest TimesEvery child MUST have a kinder-mat with cover to use while they are attending LRCDC. This mat is your child’s personal mat to use daily at nap time, while they are enrolled at the center. These mats and covers are REQUIRED by DHEC and if the mat itself gets damaged in anyway, you will be responsible for the replacement. Body pillow cases work perfectly as covers for these mats, as they are easily washable and fit all mats.

HolidaysA Schedule Annual Closings Sheet will be published annually and sent home as well as posted. There is no change in tuition charges for these closings; full tuition is due. These closings have already been accounted for and figured into the tuition costs as stated for the age level of your child.

Arrival & DepartureIt is ABSOLUTELY necessary that each child be signed in and out every day. You must sign your child in and out on the computers located at the front desk as you enter the building. Parents must ALWAYS use the main doors when picking up your child or dropping them off. Children may NEVER be picked or dropped off from the parking lot or playground areas. ONLY the parent or guardian, or persons on the list will be allowed o pick the child up without prior consent from the parent. If a person other than the parent or guardian appears to pick up the child a photo ID will need to be presented and a call may be made to the parent or guardian to confirm this transaction.

Open Door PolicyParents are encouraged to visit LRCDC and observe their children and their teachers at any time through the classroom windows or video monitors at anytime without prior notice to the center. We ask that you do not disturb your child during nap or lunch times. Parents who do visit are NOT allowed to have direct contact with children that are not their own.

Any problems or concerns that may arise concerning your child will be handled by the director or person left in charge. The director has the discretion to call the parents to help with discipline matters. If there is ever any problem that you would like to discuss with the director is the assistant director, please feel free to do so. But please be considerate and do not call or go by the director’s or assistant director’s homes.

TerminationParents/guardians who plan to discontinue using LRCDC MUST give a two week notice and pay for the weeks prior to removing their child from the center. This notification must come in written form. Please remember that you will have to pay for the two weeks after notice is given. If you remove your child without notice, you will be charged 2 weeks’ tuition; non-payment will result in collections involvement.

Severe Weather ConditionsIn case of severe weather, such as hurricanes, ice, snow, etc. Please call LRCDC at 399-KIDS and the appropriate message will be left for you to receive from our answering service.Tornado Policy: If at any time there should be a tornado in close proximity to the facility, the children present will be instructed to sit on the floor with their heads covered between their knees, against the wall closest to the interior of the center. There will be a tornado drill four or more times per year at LRCDC to prepare the children in case of a tornado emergency. For the protection of all of the children at LRCDC- ONLY adults listed on registration form will be allowed to pick your child up from the center during severe weather conditions. Even in an emergency we MUST be aware of who is picking up your child.*Again there will be NO change in tuition due to these severe weather closings. Full tuition will be due on the first day open after closings. Thank you.

In the Case of an Ill Child1. In the case of a child not feeling well, the parents and or an emergency contact person will be contacted

immediately. The child will be separated from the other children to rest until someone comes to pick up that child. Please pick up the sick child(ren) within 30 minutes of the call. This will help keep the other children well since we do not have extended stay isolation for sick children.

2. Parents will be called to pick up children that have a temperature of 101 degrees or higher. Children will not be allowed back to the center until they have been fever free for 24 hours.

3. Parents will also be called to pick up after their child if the child as 2 or more consecutive diarrhea stools or vomiting incidents.

4. LRCDC only accepts well children. DO NOT bring a child into the center with vomiting, diarrhea, communicable disease, or fever. Please be considerate of the other children at the center as well as your own and do not bring your child to the center if they are not feeling well.

5. A child will not be able to return to the center without a letter from a health resource concerning the following communicable disease: mouth sores with drooling, rash with fever or communicable rash, pink eye, scabies, tuberculosis, impetigo, strep throat, ring worm, pin worm, chicken pox, pertusis, mumps, hepatitis A virus and abdominal pain, (not limited to these communicable diseases) if a child had head lice he/she can only return when there are no visible bugs or eggs.

6. Specific directions must accompany all medication from parent/guardian. We must have a permission form signed by the parent/guardian before giving ANY type of medication. The medicine must be in the original container and labeled as follows:a. Child’s nameb. Dosage & time to be administeredc. Physician’s named. Date of prescription

If your child has medication, please fill out a medication form daily. This form is located in a black binder on the front desk.

Discipline PolicyAt LRCDC, we intend to give your child the best possible care. In order for us to provide the best we must have a good discipline policy to use with all of the children enrolled here at LRCDC. Our standards are that of caring and support, positive expectations, and active participation. The children in our center will be taught our standards through modeling, lessons, and their surrounding environment. These standards contain the teaching strategies of being truthful, being trustworthy, showing your personal best, using active learning skills and always remembering that there are no put downs. We also include the strategies of appreciating others and respect for everyone.

The staff here at LRCDC asks that you remind your child of what behavior is expected of while they are here- as this will also give your child(ren) the added exposure and reinforcement to our discipline policy.

We DO NOT use corporal punishment. We use a system of time-outs with the children enrolled at LRCDC. The time outs are not to exceed a maximum of 10 minutes. The discipline policy is as follows:

1. Verbal warning2. Re-direction3. Time-out4. Visit to the Director5. Call to Parents

*In the case of severe discipline problems such as, but not limited to the following: Continuous disrespect to staff as well as other children Physical violence towards the staff or other children Verbal abuse towards the staff or other children

The director may take any or all of the following steps:1. Notify the parent/guardian of the problem immediately and make record of the incident in that child’s

file.2. Notify the parent or guardian that there needs to be a meeting to discuss the problem and find a working

solution.3. Notify the parent or guardian to immediately come and pick up the child for the rest of that day.4. The director may ask that the child be removed from the center for one week suspension with full tuition

due.5. If no working solution can be found the director may ask for the child to be removed from the center

permanently.

LRCDC Tracking PolicyChildren are supervised by caregivers at all times and tracked by a written tracking form. The form accounts for the whereabouts of the children at all times as they are moved from one location to another such as field trips, bathroom, playground, etc.

LRCDC Field Trip Transportation PolicyLRCDC takes field trips which require written permission for each trip (as noted in the enrollment packet.) A written plan is filled out for each trip and children are checked on and off of the LRCDC Bus on a tracking form for each location. All LRCDC Employees are trained in CPR and First Aid. Emergency Information and a first aid kit are located on the bus at all times.

LRCDC Infant PolicyLRCDC Practices the “Back to Sleep” method of sleeping arrangements for our infants as they sleep. This “Back to Sleep” method is requested of us by DHEC. We realize that some parents allow their child(ren) to sleep on their stomachs, and we would like to make your child’s day at LRCDC as comfortable as possible. Therefore the following statement allows us to let your child sleep however they are most comfortable. We also heat infant formula and breast milk prior to feeding, in a bottle warmer. Please initial the statements that apply to you and your child.

My child is allowed to be placed on his/her back to sleep. ________My child is allowed to be placed on his/her STOMACH to sleep. ________

I am aware that my child’s formula/breast milk will be heated in a bottle warmer prior to feeding.

*If your child is allowed to sleep on his or her side or stomach, a Physician’s statement is required at time of enrollment.

South Carolina Department of Social ServicesINFANT STATEMENT

From: Child Care Center/Provider:Sponsoring Organizations:

Little River Child Development Center3796 McDowell Lane Little River, SC 29566

To: Parent/Guardian of Infant(s) in Day Care

I am required by the Child and Adult Day Care Food Program to offer a CACFP meal to all enrolled infants in my care. A CACFP Meal includes iron fortified infant cereal and baby food when appropriate for the child’s age. A copy of the CACFP infant meal pattern is attached.

I am required to offer an infant formula, which meets program requirements to all enrolled infants in my care. The formula that I am providing is all forms of PARENT’S CHOICE. There will be no additional charge to you, if you would like your infant to receive the formula that I am offering.

I understand that not all infants need the same formula, and that the formula served to your infant should be the one recommended by your physician. If you choose, you may continue to provide your infant’s formula and other food items.

Parent/Guardian, please check the following statement that applies to you. Then sign and date below:

I would like the child care provider to serve my infant the formula listed above. I understand that besides the formula, the caregiver will offer my infant other food items, approved by the CACFP meal pattern guidelines, at no additional charge to me.

I will supply the breast milk/infant formula to the child care provider to serve my infant. The name of the formula I will provide is: ___________________________. I understand that the caregiver will offer other food items, approved by the CACFP meal pattern guidelines, to my child.

I will provide breast milk/infant formula and all other meal items to my child care provider to serve my infant.

Name of Infant: Birth date:Signature of Parent/Guardian: Date:Signature of Provider: Date:

DSS Form 3354 (APR 04)

Departamento se Servicios Sociales de Carolina del SurDECLARACION SOBRE INFANTE

De: Centro de Cuicado de Ninos/Proveedor:Organizacion Patrocinadora:

Little River Child Development Center3796 McDowell Lane Little River, SC 29566

Para: Padre/ tutor de Infante(s) en Day Care (Guarderia de Ninos)

Yo estoy requerido por el Child and Adult Day Care Food Program (programa de comida para ninos y adultos en centros de cuidado) a ofreceries comida de CACFP a todos los infanted en que esten inscritos en esta guarderia. La comida de CACFP incluye cereal para infants fortifacdo con hierro y comida para bebe cuando sean apropiadas para la edad del infant. Se adjunta una copia de la muestra de la comida para infants de CACFP.

Yo estoy requerido a ofrecer formula para infants, que completel los requisites del programa para inscriber infants en mi uaderia. La forumula que estoy dando es PARENT’S CHOICE fortificado con hierro. Si usted quiere que su infant reciba la formula que yo le estoy ofreciendo, no Habra costo adicional.

Yo entiendo que todos los infants necesitan la misma formula servida a su infant deberia ser la que su doctor recommeno. Si usted escoge, usted puede continuar proveyendo la formula lara su infant y otros tipos de comida.

Padre/Tutor, por favor marquee la declaracion que se aplica a usted. Despues firmela y escriba la fecha en la parte inferior.

Me gustaria que el proveedor de cuidado infantile le sirva a mi hijo formula para infant fortificado con heirro listada arriba. You entiendo que ademas de las formula, el cuidador le ofrecera a mi nino otras comidas sin ningun costo adicional, aprobadas por las guias de comida de CACFP.

Yo le dare la leche de pecho/formula al proveedor de cuidado infantile para se la sirva a mi nino. El nombre de la formula que le dare es: ___________________________. Yo entiendo que el cuidador de mi nino le dara otras comidas, aprobadas por las guias de comida de CACFP.

Yo le dare leche de pecho/formula y todas las otras comidas al cuidador de nino para que se la sirva a mi nino.

Nombre de Infante: Fecha de Nacimiento:Firma de Padre/Tutor: Fecha:Firma de Proveedor: Fecha:

DSS Form 3354 (APR 04)Women, Infants, and Children

WIC

I.BACKGROUND: WIC is a targeted Special Supplemental Food Program established by Congress in 1972, and federally funded (USDA) through monetary grants to assist states in safeguarding the health and nutritional well-being of our low income women, infants, and children during critical growth periods. DHEC has been designed to administer the program in South Carolina.

II. HOW SERVICES ARE PROVIDED: Application for WIC is made available at 165 Health Departments, Primary care Centers and Physicians Offices. In most cases eligibility is determined at the time of application. Applicants must (1) show that they live within the state. (2) In South Carolina, a household’s income must fall below 185% of the poverty level. Income is defined as cash income such as wages, unemployment compensation or cash welfare. (3) WIC participants must also be certified as having a “nutritional risk” by a nurse, doctor or nutritionist, etc. Nutritional risk is defined as abnormal weight gain during pregnancy; history of high risk pregnancies, growth problems, iron-deficiencies anemia, an inadequate dietary pattern, or other similar problems.

Eligible applicants are “certified” for the program for a set length of time. Guidelines are as follows: pregnant women are certified for the length of their pregnancy and for up to six weeks postpartum; postpartum women are certified for six months periods, ending with their breast-fed infants’ first birthday; infants are certified for six-month periods or for the time period up until their first birthday; children are certified for six-month periods, up until the end of the month in which they turn five years old.

Participation in the WIC Program has no effect on eligibility for other entitlement programs such as AFDC, Food Stamps, and Medicaid. Applicants who present ID cards for these programs are considered to be adjunctively income eligible for WIC.

III. SERVICES OFFERED: The applicant is, at a minimum weighed, measured for height, and assessed for iron deficiency anemia by a blood test in order to determine nutritional risk. In addition, an evaluation of the diet of the applicant is completed.Following a health assessment, the program provides specific nutritious foods, (milk, cheese, cereal, fruit juices, eggs, beans, and infant formula) in quantities tailored to meet the needs of the participant.

Participants obtain these foods by use of vouchers in the local grocery store. Participants are never required to pay for their benefits. Visits to the health department to receive food vouchers also serve as an opportunity to provide follow-up for health problems.

IV. NUTRITION EDUCATION: Nutrition education must be offered to each participant at least two times as one-on-one counseling or in a group setting. In most cases, participants with the most serious nutrition/health problems receive individual counseling, in which the information is specifically related to the participant’s dietary needs, and health problems. Group education sessions are designed to encourage discussion and interaction between and among the nutrition educator and the participants. Receipt of the food package is not conditional on participation in nutrition education sessions. The supplemental foods in the WIC food package were specifically chosen to provide protein, iron, calcium and vitamins A and C- the nutrients most often missing from the diets of low-income women and children.

Prenatal and postpartum women are counseled on the benefits and advantages of breastfeeding and are offered classes, referral to community resources, support groups and educational materials.

V. WIC FARMER’S MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM (FMNP): The South Carolina WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) is sponsored by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture and the South Carolina WIC Program. In counties that have a viable and authorized farmers’ market, WIC clinics provide coupons on a one time basis to women and children enrolled in WIC. Clients not only purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at the market, but learn how to select, store, and prepare fresh produce during WIC education classes.

VI. VENDOR MANAGEMENT: Grocery stores (vendors) are monitored for program compliance. Although these activities are not “health care services,” they are important. If voucher redemptions transpire according to procedures, participants are best able to realize the full intended benefit of the program and program funds are less likely to be lost through fraud and abuse.

VII. WIC’s HEALTH IMPACT AND COST-EFFECCTIVENESS: The WIC program has often been called the “gateway” to health care and serves to enhance participants’ access to medical care. In South Carolina this is facilitated through an integrated Maternal and Children’s Health Service approach allowing clinics to schedule WIC appointments in conjunction with medical appointments, e.g., immunizations, family planning, prenatal care and child health concerns.

The WIC Program has been found to be very effective. The results of numerous federal, state and local studies conducted both by government and citizen groups point to the positive impact of the WIC Program. Specific findings include an increase in early (first trimester) prenatal care, increased length of gestation, decreased rate of pre-term delivery, significant increases in birth weight, reduced late fetal deaths and increased infant head circumferences. WIC participation was also associated with improved dietary intakes of protein, calories and other nutrients which often are inadequate in the diets of low-income pregnant women and children.

Contact Person:Burnese Walker, M.S., R.D., Director

Division of WIC ServicesBureau of Maternal and Child Health

(803) 898-0743

WIC

WIC is a short-term intervention program designed to influence lifetime nutrition and health behaviors.

WIC is not an entitlement program. Federal funding is determined annually.

WIC serves more than 50% of all infants born in South Carolina.

WIC provides access to maternal, prenatal and pediatric health care services for a targeted high risk population:o WIC improves pregnancy outcomes and child health.o WIC contributes to a reduced incidence of anemia in young children.o WIC Children have higher immunization rates against diseaseso WIC lowers infant mortality rates by 25%-66% among Medicaid Recipients.

WIC children are more likely to have a regular source of medical care and developmental monitoring.

WIC participation is associated with superior cognitive development.

By participating in the WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, WIC has increased small family farmers’ sales and at the same time encourage low-income women and children to eat fresh fruits and vegetables.

Building for the Future

This day care facility participates in the Child and Adult Care food Program (CACFP), a Federal program that provides healthy meals and snacks to children receiving day care.

Each day more than 2.6 million children participate in CACFP at day care homes and centers across the country. Providers are reimbursed for serving nutritious meals which meet USDA requirements. The program plays a vital role in improving the quality of the day care and making it more affordable for low-income families.

Meals CACFP homes and centers follow meal requirements established by USDABreakfast Lunch or Supper Snacks (Two of the four groups:)MilkFruit or vegetableGrains or Bread

MilkMeat or meant alternativeGrains or breadTwo different servings of fruits or vegetables

MilkMeat or meat alternativeGrains or breadFruit or vegetable

Participating Facilities

Many different homes and centers operate CACFP and share the common goal of bringing nutritious meals and snacks to participants. Participating facilities include: Child Care Centers: Licensed or approved public or private nonprofit child care centers,

Head Start Programs, and come for-profit centers. Family Day Care Homes: Licensed or approved private homes. Afterschool Care Programs: Centers in low-income areas provide free snacks to school-

age children and youth. Homeless Shelters: Emergency shelters provide food services to homeless children.

Eligibility State agencies reimburse facilities that offer non-residential day care to the following children: Children age 12 and under, Migrant children age 15 and younger, and Youths through age 18 in afterschool care programs in needy areas.

Contact Information

If you have questions about CACFP, please contact one of the following:

Sponsoring Organization/CenterLittle River Child Development Center3796 McDowell LaneLittle River, SC 29566

State Agency Director,SC Department of Social ServicesFamily Nutrition ProgramsPost Office Box 1520Columbia, SC 29202803-898-0959

USDA USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer

Construyendo Para El Futuro

Esta guardería infantil diurna participa en el Programa de Alimentación Para niños y Adultos en Guarderías) CACFP por sus siglas en ingles: Child and Adult Care Food Program) un programa Federal que provee comidas y bocadillos saludables a niños y a adultos en guarderías diurnas.

Todos los días, mas de 2.6 millones de niños participan en el programa del CACFP en centros y en hogares de familia para el cuidado de niños. Los proveedores son reembolsados por servir comidas nutritivas que cumplen con los requisitos establecidos por l Departamento de Agricultura de los estados Unidos (USDA). El programa juega un papel vital al mejorar la calidad de las guarderías y al poner las guarderías al alcance económico de familias de bajos recursos.

Alimentos Hogares y centros del CACFP siguen los patrones alimentarios establecidos por USDA.Desayuno Almuerzo o comida Bocadillos (Dos de los cuatro grupos)LecheFruta o verduraGranos o pan

LecheCarne o alternativo de carneGranos o panDos porciones diferentes de frutas o verduras

LecheCarne o un alternativo de carneGranos o panFruta o verdura

Establecimientos del CACFP

Muchos tipos de establecimientos diferentes operan el CACFP, compartiendo todo el objetivo común de brindar comidas y bocadillos nutritivos a sus participantes. Estos incluyen: Centros de Cuidado de Niños (Child Care Centers) Centros para el cuidado de

niños, ya sean públicos o privados pero no lucrativos, que hayan sido licenciados o aprobados; programas del Head Start, y algunos centros para por lucro.

Hogares de Familia Para el Cuidado de Niños (Family Day Care Homes): Hogares privados licenciados o aprobados.

Programas Escolares Después de Clases (Afterschool Cara Programs): Centros en áreas geográficas de bajos ingresos que proveen bocadillos gratis a niños de edad escolar y a jóvenes.

Centros de Refugio Para Gente Sin Hogar (Homeless Shelters): Centros de emergencia de refugio que proveen servicios residenciales y de comidas a niños sin hogares.

Elegibilidad Agencias estables reembolsan establecimientos que ofrecen cuidado no residencial a los siguientes niños: Niños hasta los 12 años de edad, Niños de familias migratorias hasta los 15 años de edad, Jóvenes hasta los 18 años de edad en programas escolares después de clases en áreas

de necesidad.Para Mas información

Si está interesado en participar el CACFP, por favor póngase en contacto con uno de los siguientes:

Organización Patrocinadora/CentroLittle River Child Development Center3796 McDowell LaneLittle River, SC 29566

State Agency Director,SC Department of Social ServicesFamily Nutrition ProgramsPost Office Box 1520Columbia, SC 29202803-898-0959

USDA USDA es un proveedor y empleador que ofrece oportunidad igual a todos

LETTER FOR NON-PRICING CHILD CARE INSTITUTIONSParticipating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program

Dear Parent/Guardian:

The Little River Child Development Center is participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) administered by the United States Department of Agriculture. Please help us comply with the requirements of the CACFP by completing, signing and returning the attached statement as soon as possible. This information is necessary so that we may receive CACFP reimbursement for the meals served to children in our program. This form will be placed in our files and treated as confidential information. All children in our program receive their meals free of charge, but the determination of eligibility category affects the amount of Federal funding received by us.

A foster child is the legal responsibility of a welfare agency or court may be certified as eligible for free meals regardless of your household income. Please contact us for additional information if you have a foster child enrolled in our program.

If you receive benefits through food stamps, the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), Family Independence (FI) on behalf of your child, then you need to only list either your food stamp, FDPIR or FI case number. In addition, you must sign and date the statement at the bottom of the form.

If your child is enrolled in Head Start or Even Start program (and is considered income eligible for one of these programs) then you need to only attach a letter from the Head Start or Even Start agency indicating this. In addition, you must sign and date the statement at the bottom of the form.

If a food stamp, FDPIR, or FI case number is not reported, and you do not have an appropriate letter from the Head Start or Even Start agency, you must complete the following items on the eligibility statement: the total current household income by source, names of all household members, the signature and social security number of an adult household member and the date the form was completed. The Department of Agriculture defines a household as a group of related or unrelated individuals (not residents of an institution or boarding house) who are living as one economic unit (i.e., sharing living expenses).

The income you report must be last month’s total gross household income listed by source, for each household member. If last month’s income does not accurately reflect your circumstances, you may provide a projection of your annual income, and you may use last year’s income as a basis for making this projection if no significant changes have occurred. If your household’s income is equal to or less than the amounts indicated for your household’s size on the chart below, the center will receive a higher level of reimbursement. Once properly approved for free or reduced price benefits, a household will remain eligible for those benefits for a period not to exceed 12 months. The following information must be provided or the application cannot be approved.

INCOME ELIGIBLITY GUIDELINESFOR FREE AND REDUCED PRICE MEALS

Effective Dates July 1, 2010- June 30, 2011

Household Annual Monthly Weekly1 20,036 1,670 3862 26,955 2,247 5193 33,874 2,823 6524 40,793 3,400 785

Source: USDA-FNS Memo Code: SP30-2010; CACFP16-2010; SFSP14-2010 – 2009-2010 IEG remains in effect for 2010-2011

5 47,712 3,976 9186 54,631 4,553 1,0517 61,550 5,130 1,1848 68,469 5,706 1,317

For each addl. member, add

6,919 577 134

All meals served to children under the Child and Adult Care Food Program are served free regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication (Braille, large print, audio tape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). There is to be mo

LITTLE RIVER CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERDISCIPLINE POLICY

Policy Statement

Praise and positive reinforcement are effective methods of behavior management of children. When children receive positive, nonviolent, and understanding interactions from adults and others, they develop good self-concepts, problem solving abilities, and self-discipline. Based on this belief, Little River Child Development Center uses a positive approach to discipline and practices the following discipline and behavior management techniques.

WE DO Communicate to children using positive statements. Communicate with children on their level. Talk with children in a calm, quiet manner. Explain unacceptable behavior to children. Give attention to children for positive behavior. Praise and encourage the children. Reason with and set limits for the children. Apply rules consistently. Model appropriate behavior. Set up the classroom environment to prevent problems. Provide alternatives and redirect children to acceptable activity. Give children opportunities to make choices and solve problems. Help children talk out problems and think of solutions. Listen to children and respect the children’s needs, desires and feelings. Provide appropriate words to help solve conflicts. Use storybooks and discussion to work through common conflicts.

WE DO NOT

discrimination in admissions policy meal service, or the use of facilities. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Thank you for your cooperation.

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Inflict corporal punishment in any manner upon a child. (Corporal punishment is defined as the use of physical force to the body as a discipline measure. Physical force to the body includes, but is not limited to, spanking, hitting, shaking, biting, pinching, pushing, pulling or slapping.)

Use any strategy that hurts, shames, or belittles a child. Use any strategy that threatens, intimidates, or forces a child. Use food as a form of reward or punishment. Use or withhold physical activity as a punishment. Shame or punish a child if a bathroom accident occurs. Embarrass any child in front of others. Compare children. Place children in a locked and/or dark room. Leave any child alone, unattended or without supervision. Allow discipline of a child by other children. Criticize, make fun of, or otherwise belittle a child’s parents, families, or ethnic groups.

Conferences will be scheduled with parents if particular disciplinary problems occur. If a child’s behavior consistently endangers the safety of the children around him/her, then the Director has the right, after meeting with the parents and documenting behavior problems and interventions, to terminate child care services for that particular child.

Note: If, at any point, there is an indication/suspicion that a child may have special needs, Little River Child Development Center will inform the child’s family and help them make contact with Baby Net for assessment and assistance.

My signature below indicates that I have received a copy of the discipline policy, it has been reviewed with me, and I have read and understand this policy.

Signature _______________________________________________ Date __________________

Please circle as appropriate: STAFF PARENT

If parent, name of child _________________________________________

Institution Representative- Mark Grogan

LITTLE RIVER CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERNUTRITION POLICY

Policy StatementGood nutrition is vital to children's overall development and well-bring. In an effort to provide the best possible nutrition environment for the children in our facility, Little River Child Development Center has developed the following child care nutrition policies to encourage the development of good eating habits that will last a lifetime.

Child Care Nutrition We participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and follow the child care nutrition guidelines of the CACFP for breakfast, lunch and snack. To provide a healthy and balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and limits foods and beverages that are high in sugar, and/or fat, Little River Child Development Center will:

Fruits and Vegetables Serve fruit at least 2 times a day. Offer a vegetable other than white potatoes at least once a

day.

Grains, Beans and Meats Serve whole grain foods at least once a day.

Beverages Limit juice intake to once per day in a serving size specified for

the child’s age group. When served the juice will be 100% fruit juice.

Do not serve sugar sweetened beverages. Serve only skim or 1% milk to children age 2 years and older.

Fats and Sugars High fat meats, such as bologna, bacon, and sausage, are served

no more than two times per week. Fried or pre-fried vegetables, including potatoes, are served no

more than once a week. Limit sweet food items to no more than two times per week.

Meal and snack times are planned so that no child will go more than four hours without being offered food. We provide a variety of nutritionally balanced, high quality foods each day so please do not send your child with outside food and drinks.

Weekly MenusOur weekly menus are carefully planned to follow child care nutrition guidelines at every meal. Each menu is designed to provide a wide variety of nutritious foods that are different in color, shape, size and texture. All of our child care menus include foods that are culturally diverse and seasonally appropriate. We also like to introduce new and different foods and include children’s favorite recipes in our menu planning. Menus are rotated on a 2 week basis to provide the children with a balance of variety and familiarity. Menus are adapted to incorporate local and fresh in-season produce when available.

CelebrationsFrom birthday parties to holidays there are many opportunities for celebrations in our child care center. A birthday party will be held

monthly in each classroom. If you would like to recognize your child’s actual birthday, we request that you not send in treats or goody bags but instead send a birthday book. For holiday celebrations, a sign–up sheet with specific foods and beverages will be placed on the classroom door.

Professional DevelopmentAnnual nutrition training is required to ensure that all staff understand the important role nutrition plays in the overall well-being of children. In addition, staff are not allowed to use food as a reward or punishment and are expected to be role-models for healthy eating in front of the children.

Sign_____________________________________

Date_____________________________________

LITTLE RIVER CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERPHYSICAL ACTIVITY POLICY

Policy StatementLittle River Child Development Center recognizes the importance of physical activity for young children. Implementation of appropriate physical activity practices supports the health and development of children, as well as assisting in establishing positive lifestyle habits for the future.

Physical Activity in Child CareThe purpose of this policy is to ensure that children in care are supported and encouraged to engage in active play, develop fundamental movement skills and limit screen time. Our center encourages all children to participate in a variety of daily physical activity opportunities that are appropriate for their age, that are fun and that offer variety. In order to promote physical activity and provide all children with numerous opportunities for physical activity throughout the day Little River Child Development Center will:

Daily Outdoor Playu Provide toddlers (ages 1 through 2 year olds) with at least 60-90

minutes of daily outdoor active play opportunities across 2 or 3 separate occasions.

u Provide preschoolers (ages 3 through 5 year olds) with at least 90 -120 minutes of daily outdoor activity play opportunities across 2 or 3 separate occasions.

u Increase indoor active play time so the total amount of active play time remains the same, if weather limits outdoor time.

u Take children outside every day unless the temperature is below 42 degrees and above 92 degrees and in the case of weather advisories.

Role of Staff in Physical Activityu Provide teacher planned physical activities (e.g., games and

activities) lasting 5-10 minutes at least 2 times a day.u Will encourage children to be physically active indoors and

outdoors at appropriate times. Indoor and Outdoor Play Environment

u Provide a variety of play materials for children to use that promotes physical activity indoors (e.g. scarves, bean bags, balls, ribbons, CDs).

u Provide a variety of outdoor portable play materials for children to use (e.g. balls, obstacle cones) and/or equipment (hoops, wheeled toys).

Physical Activity and PunishmentStaff members do not withhold opportunities for physical activity (e.g., not being permitted to play with the rest of the class or being kept from play time), except when a child’s behavior is dangerous to himself or others. Staff members never use physical activity or exercise as punishment, e.g., doing push-ups or running laps. Play time or other opportunities for physical activity are never withheld to enforce the completion of learning activities or academic work. Our center uses appropriate alternate strategies as consequences for negative or undesirable behaviors.

Appropriate Dress for Physical ActivityWe expect parents to provide children with appropriate clothing for safe and active outdoor play during all seasons. We also expect parents to provide children with sunscreen, bug spray, and other items needed for outdoor play as indicated by teachers’ notes home.

Screen Time LimitationsIn accordance with the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations, our center does not permit screen time (e.g., television, movies, video games and computers) for children two years and younger .

Professional DevelopmentAnnual training on promotion of children’s movement and physical activity is required for all staff. Staff will be informed of their role in encouraging children to be physically active indoors and outdoors at appropriate times.

Sign ________________________________________________

Date_______________________________________________