Sign in and Sign Out

It is required by the Hillsborough Preschools and the Department of Social Services that only authorized persons may sign their children in and out daily. Your child will be released only to the individuals authorized to pick-up on the application. Authorized persons who are unknown to teachers will be asked for identification before the child is allowed to leave. If you need to make changes in the list of people authorized, please do so in writing. Always communicate special pick-up information with the teacher.

Toileting

All children entering our program must be potty trained; however, we understand that accidents do happen. Due to licensing regulations and how our facilities are equipped, we are not allowed to change diapers or pull-ups; this means your child must come to class in underwear. Please have your child use the bathroom upon arrival or right before you leave home. If there is an accident during the school day, you may be called during the day to tend to your child's bathroom accident

Discipline

Our discipline policy is based on the principles of respect for each child and respect for the rights of all members of the program. Ground rules and expectations are taught to reinforce these principles. In all dealings with the children, teachers are accountable for treating them with respect. Our philosophy is a continuous, daily process of love and logic during which:

• Children are encouraged at all times

• Responsible behavior will be recognized

• Self-esteem will be built through positive interactions

We use conflict resolution appropriate to the child's stage of development including: redirection, talking it out, conflict resolution, and taking turns.

If an ongoing behavior problem occurs, such as hitting, kicking, or biting, parents will be notified and we will work together to resolve the problem. It is necessary for parents to work cooperatively and closely with the teachers so that peaceful behavior becomes an expectation at home and at schools

Illness

Please notify the teachers when your child is ill. Watch your child for signs of illness and DO NOT send him/her to school if he/she appears to be sick. It is not fair to the other children or the the teachers to be needlessly exposed to coughs or runny noses. If your child has had a fever during the past 24 hours and cannot fully participate in the daily activities for any reason, please keep your child home. Contagious diseases must be reported to the Preschool as soon as possible as we are required to post a sign and send out notices to families. The following symptoms will require a student to stay home:

• elevated temperature

• sever diarrhea or vomiting

• undiagnosed rash

• sore or discharging eyes or ears, or a profuse nasal discharge

• diagnosed contagious disease such as strep throat or chicken pox

What to Bring

If your child has a special "lovie" they are welcome to bring it and leave it in their cubby. We hope that you will send your child's special security item to school. These "lovies" are helpful in making transitions easier. They are able to leave them in their cubbies when they are ready. Books, tapes, CDs are easily shared and welcomed; however make sure they are clearly labeled.

What Not to Bring

Do not allow your children to wear/bring expensive clothing, propellant toys, toy guns or knives, pocket radios, electronics, pets of any kind, or money. If any of these items are brought in, they will be confiscated by the teacher and returned at the end of the day.