Parent Handbook

A 5 Star Licensed Center

Director: Karen Wolford

Assistant Director:  

We look forward to serving your child and your family.  Please feel free to visit or call as often as you would like.  We thank you for entrusting us with your most valuable possession…your wonderful child.

626 Ashe Central School Road - Unit 1, Jefferson NC  28640

Phone 336.846.2208  336.846.2598

Fax 336.846.2697

E-mail: mjcdc@skybest.com

Website: https://sites.google.com/view/mtjeffersonchilddevelopment

License # 05000086

 The Board of Directors

Our Purpose and Goals

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center, Inc. provides services for children between the ages of birth to five years.  The center is designed to serve children of all cultural, ethnic, social-economic and religious backgrounds. At Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center, all family types are respected.

Children grow and learn as individuals.  The center offers learning experiences that help children to be independent and successful, to develop self-esteem, to form friendships with other children and to learn problem solving.

Our purpose is to provide the child with an environment where he/she can learn about the world through exploratory, constructive and dramatic forms of play.

Our short-term goal is to help children learn the three basic guidelines for appropriate behavior:  Be Kind, Be Safe and Be Neat.  With these ground rules children can begin to understand the following three key elements of prosocial behavior:

 Cooperation - Working with others on a common goal

 Empathy - Putting oneself into others’ shoes, to feel what they feel, to have insight into their thoughts and actions

 Altruism - Behaving generously and sharing.*

In providing a developmentally appropriate setting, behavior problems are minimized because the children are challenged and their needs are met. Children need to be able to have independence, pride and self-confidence.

With careful planning, we can prevent many behavior problems by understanding children’s developmental needs and by creating a perfect match between their needs and the setting around them.  Environments need to be safe, child-proof and interesting for children of various ages. As children grow, their environment needs to grow and change.

 *Miller, Darla, Positive Child Guidance:  Delmar Publishers, 1996 pages 7 - 114.

Our Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide a safe and stimulating environment for bright and curious children to interact with and learn from each other. To entertain children with educational offerings that will provide fun learning opportunities.  It is also our mission to serve families of all ethnic, religious and socio-economic backgrounds, as well as children with developmental challenges. We dedicate ourselves to providing the highest quality of care and service to the children and families that we serve.  We serve as an outreach to the community by opening our doors to high school and college students, so that they may obtain valuable hands on experience in the field of childcare. We strive to be leaders in early childhood education and to prepare the children of today for the challenges of tomorrow.

About our program:

Founded in 1973, Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center is owned by the people of Ashe County. On July 2, 2007 the center became a community non-profit center. MJCDC provides services for children between the ages of birth and five years.  The board of directors governs the center’s policies and program procedures.

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center is licensed by the N.C. Department of Human Resources Division of Child Development.  Our program voluntarily meets additional enhanced standards that are required for a 5 Star Rated license.  This means that -- compared to most other programs -- we have a lower child-staff ratio, additional space for play, more activities for children and more opportunities for parental participation.

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center has an Open Door Policy, which means parents are welcome to drop in to check on their child or visit with their child at any time.

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center is open 52 weeks a year, 12 hours a day (6 am - 6 pm) with the exception of holidays and weekends.  A list of dates for holidays can be found in the back of this handbook and is updated annually.

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center offers full-day and part-time enrollment.

M.t Jefferson Child Development Center provides breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack for children and staff.

Serving Children with Special Needs

The Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center exemplifies mainstream, or integrated, child care, providing developmental childcare for handicapped and non-handicapped children in the same setting. 

In 1990, Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of a disability, including HIV. All public accommodations, such as restaurants, hotels, and child care centers, are affected by this law.  Therefore, it is illegal for any child care provider to deny admission of a child solely based on the child’s disability or HIV.  A child’s parents have the right to not disclose information regarding the child’s HIV status.

The developmental program is individualized for each child, with an emphasis on learning through indoor and outdoor play.

Developmental level is an important factor in determining classroom placement, and handicapped and developmentally delayed youngsters are encouraged to participate as fully as they are able.

Our lead teachers have received either a Bachelor’s Degree or an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and all other staff members are working towards an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. The staff-child ratio exceeds licensing requirements, and "floating" teachers, who do not have specific class assignments, are on staff to provide extra help when and where it is required.

Cost of care is based on enrollment regardless of whatever special needs a child might have. For preschoolers, enrollment types are full and part time.

About our policies:

 Non-discrimination:

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center admits children of any race, color, religion, sex, age, disability or national origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities made available at the center. We do not discriminate in any way within the administration of our educational policies, enrollment policies, financial plans or other center-administered programs. A multi-cultural, anti-biased curriculum is offered.

Application

Applications are obtained from and are returned to Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center.  

There is a waiting list for children, and as vacancies occur, the parents of the child next on the list for that particular age group will be contacted.  The only exceptions to this rule are emergency placement by the Department of Social Services and cases involving children with special needs.

An initial conference between the center director and the parent(s) will be held prior to a child’s entry into the Center to discuss the program policies and to share information about the child.  The child and parent(s) are encouraged to visit the center and visit with the child’s teacher and observe his/her classroom.

The following forms must be completed at the time of enrollment:

An application form for each child.

Medical forms need to be filled out by the Ashe County Health Department or by the child’s doctor.   Written statements of immunization, either       stamped or signed by the child’s doctor or the Health Department, are required and must follow the North Carolina Immunization Schedule:

Birth            Hep B

2 Months     DTaP/DTP, Hib, 1PV, Hep B

4 Months     DTaP/DTP, Hib, IPV

6 Months     DTaP/DTP, Hib, Hep B

12 Months   Hib, OPV, MMR, Var

15 Months   DTaP/DTP

4-6 Years    DTaP/DTP, OPV, MMR

Call 1-800-FOR-BABY for more information

 The form from the Division of Child Nutrition for the food services program. 

 Fee Certification Form - See Tuition and Fees for more information.

 Emergency Information and Release Form. (Persons who can pick up the child)

 Parent Signature Form stating that parent(s) were given a copy of the center’s policies, and have read and understand the handbook.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition is due in advance on the first working day of the month.  Parents have the option of paying bi-monthly and may arrange payments with the director upon enrollment.  Payments may be made in person to the director or put in an envelope and dropped into the box on the director’s desk; such envelopes must have the child’s name and the amount paid written on them. Payments not made in person to the director – or a designated staff member -- must be in the form of a check. A receipt must be issued for all cash payments.

**The hourly, daily and full month’s fee is charged regardless of absences, illness, listed holidays, and vacations.

Fee Certification - Subsidy is a federal / state program that provides assistance with tuition payments for families that meet the eligibility requirements. Ashe Child Care Assistance determines those eligible for Subsidy services. Eligibility is based on gross monthly income and the number of people and dependents in the family.  Subsidy children may be absent for five working days in any given month. Reasons for absences include illness, vacations, parental visitation and extreme hardship.  After five days, the Ashe Child Care Assistance office will be contacted.  Termination will be determined by the Ashe Child Care Assistance Personnel.  Subsidy children are required to stay at the center for six hours per day on a regular basis.

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center recognizes the need for families to have assistance in paying for quality childcare. MJCDC offers a sliding fee to families not eligible, who choose not to be certified for Subsidy or are denied assistance from other programs.  Should a family’s income fall in the sliding fee scale, they may complete the sliding fee application.            

10% discount will be given to the second and third child enrolled in one family.

Scholarships will be offered to employees of MJCDC with children enrolled in the center at the cost of $1.50 per hour for each child.

Late Payments

If tuition is overdue for a period of two weeks, the parent will receive a statement from the director.  If arrangement for payment cannot to made, the child will be dropped from the program.

ð RETURNED CHECKS: A charge of $25.00 will be assessed for any returned check in accordance to the NC General Statute 25-3-506.  All returned checks must be made good in cash, certified check or money order.  

ð COURT FEES: Should it become necessary to go to court over non-payment of fees owed, court and attorney fees will be added to the bill.

Increase in Tuition

The center reserves the right to increase tuition on January 1 as the need arises.  Tuition and fees collected must cover the costs of operating the center and shall be evaluated annually by the Board of Directors.

Withdrawal

Parents may withdraw their child from the program upon giving a two-week notice and paying the two-week tuition.  If the parent has paid a monthly fee, a refund-check for the remaining time will be issued.

Center Hours

The center’s hours are from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday. Our program operates twelve months per year.

How Many Hours Can My Child Stay?

A child may stay in the center for 9 ½ hours daily.  If your child needs to stay longer please contact the director or your child’s teacher.  We do work with parents who work out-of-the county or who have longer working hours.  Children who stay passed their allotted times will be charged $1 per minute. Continuous abuse of the time will result in the loss of your child’s childcare slot.

Holiday/Center Closing Schedule

The center will be closed on the following holidays:  New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the day after Christmas. The center will be closed three days for Christmas.

Weather

The center will remain open as much as possible to provide care for children whose parents must work or need daily care for their child.  We will continue to open at 6:00 am unless the snow, ice, or other inclement weather has made traveling dangerous. The center may close if snow accumulation is approximately five inches or more and added accumulation is expected which will cause traveling to be dangerous.  The county communications center will be used to determine road conditions.  We will be using the Call Tree telephone system to notify you of delays or closings due to weather. The Call Tree will call local numbers only.  Please call the center to see if someone is there or listen to WKSK AM 580 or WMMY 106.1 FM for announcements about closings.  You may also check the centers website at: https://sites.google.com/site/mtjeffersonchilddevelopment/. This policy is for the safety of the staff and the families we serve.

Absence and Departure Policy

Parents are expected to inform the center when:

 A child is going to be absent

 A child will be picked up earlier than usual

A child is to be picked up by someone other than the persons named on the application form -- THIS MUST BE IN WRITING BY THE PARENTS or the child will not be allowed to leave.

A fee is charged regardless of absences, illness, listed holidays, and vacations. 

Arrival and Departure

Parents need to make the staff aware of the child’s arrival or departure.

If your child is going to arrive later than 9:00 am or be absent, please contact the center at 846-2208 or 846-2598. If you begin work later than 9:00 am and you know that you will continually be bringing your child in later than 9:00 am please advise your child’s teacher of your working hours. We will not allow children to come in between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm due to disruptions during classroom, lunch and naptimes. There are exceptions to the policy: for example, if your child has a doctor’s appointment and you have a note that states your child was seen that morning or you were called into work at the last minute.

It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to walk the child to their classroom on arrival to the center. Please ensure you make verbal contact with your child’s teacher before leaving! All children must be signed in on arrival and signed out before departing the center. During departure, the parent (or guardian) must remain in close, visual contact with his/her child. Should the need arise to re-enter the center or a classroom the child must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

All children are required to wash their hands when they arrive at the center. Parents (or guardians) are welcomed to help with hand washing.

Meal-times

Breakfast begins at 8:00 am, if you want your child to eat breakfast at the center, then your child needs to arrive by 8:30. Please feed your child breakfast if your arrival will be later than 9:00 am. Also, if you will be arriving after 9:00 am, please call and let your child’s teacher know so he or she will be included in the lunch count (to ensure that enough food is prepared for the meal). Meals are important to a growing child.

Late Pick-up

The Center closes at 6:00 pm.  When a child is still at the Center after closing time a $1 per minute late charge will be issued.  We will make allowances for emergencies and occasionally a last minute call at your job.

Early intervention is a major key to a child’s success in life.

Family Services

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center works together with other community service agencies to provide services for the child, parents and staff.  A list of community service agencies can be found in the Ashe County Directory of Health and Human Services and is available in the office. Further information may be obtained by calling the Resource Help Line at Ashe Memorial Hospital at 846-7101.

If you are concerned with your child’s development – cognitive, speech, hearing, physical movements, etc. -- or your child requires extra help in building self-esteem or with a behavior problem, we can help you find the right agency to address your needs.

Children and parents may receive indirect or direct services on a referral basis upon request from a parent or guardian.  The center’s staff and the director are available to help parents with referrals and to gather information.  If a teacher notices a developmental delay, the teacher will consult parents and then -- with parental consent -- refer the child to the appropriate agencies.

Communication between the center and parents is very important for the well being of the child.

Parent Participation Plan

Ø  Parent participation is appreciated and is fundamental to our program.

Ø  Parents are encouraged to drop in and spend time with their child in the classroom or on the playground. 

Ø  Parents are encouraged to attend parent-teacher conferences and to participate in setting the child’s goals for the year.  Parent involvement is essential to the setting of goals and to carrying out the plans to meet those goals.

Ø  Parents are encouraged to participate in programs scheduled throughout the year and are invited to share their talents.

Ø  Parents are encouraged to participate in parent education programs.  These programs are arranged for you, and we hope they will be useful to you and your child.

Ø  Parents are encouraged to attend meetings concerning the center and center policies

Making the Center Aware of Changes in your Child’s Routine

Parents are expected to inform the center when:

Ä The child is exhibiting unusual behaviors at home or has acquired a new manner of behavior.

Ä The child has taken medication in the past twenty-four hours.

Ä The family routines are changed; for instance: dad and/or mom is going away for a few days, grandparents are visiting, the family pet has died, or any other situation that may affect the child’s behavior.

Making the Parents Aware

Þ    The center produces a monthly newsletter to inform parents of a number of items of interest, including activities going on in the center and community.  Please be sure to read these newsletters so that you will be up to date on important issues concerning your child.

Þ    Notes are also sent home when needed and are taped to the child’s cubby.

         Also, the center is responsible for informing parents when:

 Their child’s behavior is different from normal.

  Routines at the center have been changed.

 Their child is showing signs of illness.

 There is an infectious disease within the center.

 Their child has received first aid for an accident or occurrence at the center.

Birthdays 

Parents are encouraged to celebrate their child’s birthday at the center during lunch or afternoon snack.  Parents may bring store-bought cupcakes or cake, fresh fruits and/or veggies, juice, napkins, cups, plates, hats, etc.; however homemade foods or favors such as toys or balloons are not permitted.  We request that you bring at least one “healthy” snack item for parties. Please notify your child’s teacher in advance so plans can be made.  Milk or water can be provided by the center.

Clothing

Each child should have a full change of clothing, clearly labeled and kept in his/her cubby. Parents of children who need diapers, pull-ups or wipes must provide an adequate supply to be kept at the Center. Children should be dressed in washable, loose fitting, comfortable, sturdy clothing. Clothing should not hinder the child's full participation in any activity.

The children will normally be outside for one or two hours a day.  Flip flops may not be worn to the Center. Children need to be able to run easily in what they wear, and they need to have shoes that protect their feet against injuries.

In choosing daily apparel, consider whether the clothing can be managed by the child alone. This is especially important in regard to toileting. Self-help clothing allows the child to be more independent. There is not time in group care for a teacher to be readily available to help with clothing. Overalls that button or have metal fasteners are difficult for children to handle alone.

Twice a year in the monthly newsletter, we will remind you to check for seasonally appropriate clothes in your child's cubby. Make sure your child has an emergency change of clothes at the Center at all times.

State regulation requires that children go outside.  The children will go outside every day, weather permitting.  Weather permitting is defined as every day, unless there is active precipitation, extremely hot or cold conditions, or public service announcements that advise people to stay indoors due to weather conditions that could be hazardous. The Division allows child care operators to use their best judgment when deciding to take children outdoors in order to make sure children remain safe. Children who are too ill to participate in any outdoor play should remain at home. The children should be dressed appropriately for the weather.  Please make sure your child has a sweater or jacket to wear in the spring and fall.

Perfume/Cologne/Jewelry

Due to allergies, no perfume or cologne may be worn by children. This includes body wash, soaps and sprays that have a strong fragrance.

Due to safety issues we will no longer be able to allow children to wear jewelry of any kind to the center –necklaces, bracelets, long dangling or hoop earrings or rings - this includes Amber Teething Necklaces. PLEASE do not send your children to the center with these on. If children arrive at the center with them on, we will remove them.

Sun Screen

We are no longer required to apply sunscreen because of the length of time it takes to apply sunscreen to each child in a classroom. It is also recommended that we do not apply sunscreen, in the classroom, due to allergies, sanitation concerns and other safety issues. We encourage parents to apply 12 hour waterproof sunscreen to your child before coming to the center.

Toilet Training

Toilet training can be a very complicated issue.  Sometimes parents and providers have different thoughts about when and how children should be trained.  Our beliefs about toilet training are based on professional research, as well as our own experiences with children throughout our history in child care.  Pediatrician and child development expert Dr. T. Berry Brazelton has found that when parents wait until their child shows certain “readiness” signs, toilet training is easier, with fewer conflicts and frustrations for both parents and children.  Parents also need to know that in order to be toilet trained, children must be able to control their sphincter and larger abdominal muscles, and make them work when they want them to.  Children don’t usually acquire this ability until they are about 2 years old.

        “Readiness” signs may include:

¨  Stays dry for at least 2 hours during the day and is dry after naps

¨  Is able to follow simple, one-step instructions like “sit down”

¨  Shows an interest in wearing underwear or “big boy/big girl pants”

¨  Can sit still independently for at least 2 minutes

¨  Cries, fusses, or shows other signs of obvious discomfort or displeasure to wet or soiled diapers

¨  Has predictable bowel movements on a regular basis

¨  Expresses an interest in using toilet

¨  Indicates through words, facial expression, or posture, a readiness to use the toilet

¨  Expresses a desire for independence

¨  Understands the value to putting things where they belong

Related Policies: 

• Children must be showing at least 4 consistent readiness signs, while at school, in order for staff to work on training.  Parents please keep in mind that children may show signs at home but not at school.  Toileting is very private.  Children are likely to be more comfortable and respond better at home. 

• When it is mutually-determined that a child is ready for toilet training at school, parents must provide training pants, disposable or cloth. Pull-ups may be used only if they fasten on the sides so that all of the child’s clothes do not have to be removed to change them.  Regular underwear is not acceptable as it is not designed to hold or absorb children’s waste.  Soiled cloth training pants and other clothing will be sent home for parents to wash. 

• We will encourage the child to sit on the toilet at a time when the opportunity for success is greatest.  

• Due to sanitation regulations, portable potty chairs will not be used.  Child-size toilets are available to the children throughout the program. 

• If the child cries, whines, or shows any other negative response to the process, all efforts will stop immediately.  We will not begin again until the child initiates an interest and willingness to use the toilet. 

• For successful attempts, children will be rewarded with verbal praise, hugs, and positive attention.  Candy, toys, etc. will not be given as a reward.  Children should not be scolded or punished if they are unsuccessful.  Self-esteem will be boosted by letting the child guide the process and learn to use the toilet by himself.

• Children do not necessarily have to be toileting independently to be promoted to the next classroom. 

Rest Time

¨     All children will have a daily rest time. A cot sheet and light blanket will be provided by the Center.  Children are not required to sleep, only to rest for a short period of time.  Quiet activities will be provided for children who do not nap or who wake early. 

¨     Infants and toddlers have a daily rest that is arranged to accommodate individual needs.  Infants and toddlers must be laid on their back in accordance to the NC Division of Child Development’s “Safe Sleep Policy”.  For information ask your child’s teacher or the director.

Food and Nutrition

All meals and snacks are carefully planned so as to give each child a well-planned, attractive and balanced diet. Children are served breakfast, lunch and snack each day. Children eat in their groups with an adult in the classroom. Trying new foods is encouraged. Meal times are happy, informal times to socialize and to explore the texture, taste and sight of new foods. Menu plans are posted.

Parents are invited to join their children for lunch by making prior arrangements with the staff. Parents may pay a small donation for lunch.

Parents of children fifteen (15) months of age or younger shall give the teacher a written statement concerning the child's food requirements. All formulas and breast milk will be brought in labeled containers and fed to that child only.

Breastfeeding is the natural way to feed a baby.  Parents who would like to learn about breastfeeding may ask us about the benefits of this natural process for both mother and baby. We have lots of information on breastfeeding. We welcome it and are happy to provide an area for mothers to breastfeed their infants.  

Allergies and Special Diet

Parents should notify the Center in writing and discuss with the child's teacher any allergies, special diet restrictions, or food needs.  A doctor’s note is necessary for recognizing food allergies.

North Carolina Food Service Program

The Center participates in the North Carolina Food Service Program.  This program helps to provide monetary support to purchase food for nutritional meals.  Because every child is included in the program, we require parents to fill out the NCFSP form yearly.

Toys, Books and Sharing 

It is generally a better experience for the entire group if toys are not brought to the Center, except for special instances such as “Show & Tell” that must be discussed with your child’s teacher before that item can be brought to the center.  Books that are age appropriate may be brought for the teacher to read if time permits.

Bringing food or snacks (including candy and chewing gum) to the Center is discouraged except in particular instances when this has been cleared with the director of the Center.

We appreciate contributions of leftover sewing materials, wood or paper scraps or anything else that children might use in their activities. Dress-up clothing and safe kitchen utensils are especially needed for dramatic play.

Live pets, when provided with adequate housing, are welcome if prior arrangements have been made with the child’s teacher or center director.  All live animals must be restrained in a cage, on a leash or be held by an adult. A 48-hour notice and proof that your pet has had rabies vaccinations and is current on shots must be given to your child’s teacher before any pet will be permitted. Children will wash their hands before and after handling or petting the animals. Parents who have children with known allergies to furry animals must alert the teacher or director immediately.  Families with concerns about pets will be notified in advance when live pets are coming to the center. Petting zoo animals must be in an outdoor environment and outside of all play areas.  (In parking lot or outside of playground fence.) Parents will have the option for their child to participate in the activity or have the child to visit in another classroom.

Your Child’s Health

Your child's physical and mental health plays an important role in his/her ability to gain full benefit from the Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center program. We ask that you fill out a health survey so we can have a better understanding of your child's specific needs.

If your child should become ill at school, we will contact you and allow him/her to rest in the isolation area until you arrive. The child will need to be picked up within one (1) hour from the time of the call.

Appropriate action will be taken when problems of food intake, accidents or unusual behavior occur. When such instances occur, parents will be notified by the director or teacher, who will explain what has happened and what was done. Accident records must be filed according to the licensing guidelines, explained to the parent, then signed and dated by the parent and logged into the accident journal.

Illness

Screening: Children will be visually screened as they arrive at the facility. If a child exhibits signs of illness, it will be determined if the symptoms indicate the need for exclusion until remedied. In the event a child becomes ill and needs to be picked up, the child will be separated from the rest of the children until a parent arrives.  Parents of children with symptoms of fever, diarrhea, or vomiting will be notified immediately to pick up their child. Parents are responsible for maintaining up-to-date emergency information.

Re-admittance: Your child may not return to the center if he/she exhibits symptoms for exclusion within a 24-hour period prior to the child’s admittance back to school. If your child is unable to participate in the normal activities of the daily schedule due to fatigue or illness, then your child must stay home. A child will be excluded from attendance if any of the following illnesses or conditions exists:

  Fever - When temperature is 100.5 or higher, either by head scan thermometer or digital thermometer held under the arm with 1 degree added. The child will be restricted from the Center until he/she is without fever for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication (Tylenol, PediaCare, Ibuprofen, etc.) The child must be kept out of childcare at least 1 complete day.

  Diarrhea - This includes two (2) or more loose (watery) stools within a two (2) hour period or an increase from normal stool frequency and change in stool consistency (i.e., increased number of stools and a change from formed to loose). The child will be restricted until at least one (1) normal stool has occurred and he/she is free of diarrhea for 24 hours. The child must be kept out of daycare for at least 1 complete day.

  Vomiting - Defined as the inability to hold stomach contents. This does not include "spitting up" that might occur when formula fed babies are "burped.”  After first episode the child will be sent home. The child has to be free of vomiting for 24 hours before he/she can return to the Center. The child must be kept out of daycare for at least 1 complete day.

  Rashes - Defined as a skin eruption excluding diaper rash. The child will be permitted to attend the center when the condition is resolved, is adequately treated, or the child's physician provides a note specifically stating that the rash is due to a non-contagious disease.

  Eye Drainage - Defined as yellow, white, or green drainage from the eyes along with redness of the lids or skin surrounding eye (pink-eye appearance). Often there is matting of the eyelids after sleep and there may be pain and burning of the eyes. The child will need to be on medication for 1 complete day and the drainage must be cleared up before he/she can return to the Center.

  Nose Drainage - Defined as yellow or green discharge from the nose. The child will need to be on an antibiotic or other medication prescribed by a physician for the illness. Yellow/ green discharge from the nose is a sign of an infection in the body. The child is considered contagious as long as the drainage is yellow/green. If the child has been on a doctor's prescribed medication for a complete day, then the child may return to the Center.

 Illness Report: Each illness will be recorded on a monthly health report. Serious illnesses will be reported to the Ashe County Health Department.

SPECIFIC DISEASES - Listed are the specific diseases that require restriction from the Center. The child will be restricted until the following criteria have been met:

  Chicken Pox - Until all blisters have crusted.

  German Measles (Rubella) - Until at least four days after rash appears.

  Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease - Until the child is fever free and all weeping or oozing blisters or sores have dried up or a physician writes a note to    say that the child may return.

  Hemophilus Influenza (Hib) - Upon advice of the physician.

  Impetigo - Until all lesions are healed.

  Head Lice – The child will be excluded from care until all bugs AND nits are removed and it has been at least 24 hours after effective treatment. The child will be out a minimum of 1 complete day.  If child continually has head lice and parent is not following proper procedure for getting rid of lice or does not seek outside help for treating and eliminating the lice the child may be dismissed from the center because of continual risk to other children and families. 

  Measles - Until at least four days after rash appears.

  Whooping Cough - For exposure or illness - until 5 days after effective treatment.

  Scabies - Until at least 24 hours after effective treatment. The child will be out a minimum of 1 complete day.

  Scarlet Fever - Until at least 24 hours of effective treatment and fever is gone. The child will be out minimum of l complete day.

  Strep Throat - Until at least 24 hours of effective treatment and fever is gone. The child will be out a minimum of 1 complete day.

  Croup - Until at least 24 hours after fever is gone. The child will be out a minimum of 1 complete d

MEDICATION   (State Law)

The following is taken from the North Carolina Child Care Standards:

.0803 Administering Medication

No drug or medication shall be administered to any child without specific instructions from the child's parent, a physician, or other authorized health professional. No drug or medication will be administered after its expiration date.

Written authorization must give the child’s name, the specific name of the medicine, dosage instructions, specific times to be given, the parent’s signature, and the date signed.

Note: If you have prescription medication that must be given at the center, please ask your pharmacy to split the medication into two bottles, one for childcare and one for home.  Sometimes parent’s forget their child’s medication at the center or forget to bring the medicine to the center.

" PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION must be in its original container bearing the pharmacist's name, the name of the medicine or the prescription number, and directions for dosage, or be accompanied by written instructions for dosage, bearing the child's name, which are dated and signed by the prescribing physician or other health professional.  Prescribed medicine will be administered only to the person for whom it is prescribed.

" NON-PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION: The following medicines can be given with written parental and physician consent. The parent's authorization must give the child's name, the name of the medicine, dosage instructions, the parent's signature, and the date signed attached to the physician’s note stated why the child’s needs this medication . Patent medicine may also be administered in accordance with instructions from a physician or other authorized health professional.  The dose, duration, and method of administration must be that which is specified on the manufacturer’s label for the age or weight of the child needing medication.

**The following is a list of acceptable non-prescription medications that need only parental consent:   

·       Diaper ointments intended specifically for the use in the diaper area of the child

·       Topical teething ointment

Child Abuse / Neglect Policy

Each staff member Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center is screened thoroughly before being offered a position. Upon being hired each person is fingerprinted and a federal background check is performed. Should abuse, in any form, be suspected by staff members or parents, a report shall be made to the Department of Social Services.

According to the North Carolina Child Care Law and Rules, abuse occurs when a parent or caregiver injures or allows another to injure a child physically or emotionally.  Abuse may also occur when a parent or caregiver puts a child at risk of serious injury or allows another to put a child at risk of serious injury.   Neglect occurs when a child does not receive proper care, supervision, or discipline, or when a child is abandoned.  N.C. law requires any person who suspects child abuse or neglect to report the case to the county department of social services.  In addition, any person can call the Division of Child Development at 919-662-4527 and make a report of suspected child abuse or neglect in a child care operation.  Reports can be made anonymously.  A person cannot be held liable for a report made in good faith.

Emergency Medical Care Plan

1.  Health Consultant:  The Ashe County Health Department, Phone: 246-4994

2.  Ashe Memorial Hospital Emergency Room     Phone: 846-7101

3.  Means of Transportation:

 Director’s Private Car

 Teacher's Private Car

 Ambulance Service      Phone: 911

4.  The director or lead teacher will be responsible for determining what response is needed, carrying out the                          plan of action and assuring that appropriate medical care is given. Options include:

 Simple first aid given at the facility for an injury or illness needing only minimal attention.

 Advice from previously identified medical consultant in order to decide if care is to be given at the facility, or if the ill or injured person is to be transported to the designated medical resource. If care is to be given at the facility, the director or teacher will administer the care.

 Immediate transportation of the person to the designated medical resource for appropriate treatment.

5.  The director or assigned teacher is responsible for:

 Assuring that the permission slip authorizing the facility to obtain emergency medical care is taken with the ill or injured person to the medical resource.

 Accompanying the ill or injured person to the medical resource.

 Notifying the child's parent(s) or emergency contact person about the illness or injury and where the child has been taken for treatment.

 Notifying the emergency contact person when a staff person becomes ill or injured to an extent requiring transportation to a medical resource.

 Notifying the medical resource about the ill or injured person being transported for treatment.

 Obtaining substitute staff if needed to maintain required staff/child ratio and adequate supervision of remaining children in the center.

6.  Twelve telephones are available for use in case of an emergency. The telephones are located in the office (2), in the kitchen and in each classroom.

7.  Incident reports must be completed each time a child receives medical treatment.  The director must record all such reports in an incident log.

 A description of the individual emergency medical care plan is developed with each child's parent(s) and with each staff member. This plan includes the names, address, and telephone number of the child's parent(s), other emergency contact persons and telephone numbers, the family physician and telephone number, and preferred hospital. This individual plan will be completed and be on file in the facility no later than the child's or staff member's first day at the facility.

Parking

Designated parking places are available for parents to use while delivering and picking up children. If you plan to be parked for more than 15 minutes, please do not park behind or block-in other parents or staffs.  All children MUST be escorted into the Center and should be picked up in the afternoon by a known, designated person.

Discipline Policy

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center does not use physical punishment for children. The Center staff feels that time away from group or denial of privileges is sometimes necessary, but by keeping a child interested, setting necessary limits and being positive and consistent, the staff of Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center finds there is little need for punishment.

The Center’s guidelines govern the type of discipline used with children.  These guidelines are:

 A child may be removed from the group but within open view of the caregiver and in the classroom.  Isolation is minimal.

 For young children, redirection of the behavior or the child’s attention is more appropriate.

 Denial of food at snack or meal times as a punishment is prohibited.

 Detention of child in the classroom when the other children go outside for activities is prohibited.

 Abusive language, yelling, screaming, sarcasms, teasing, shouting, nagging, bribing and threatening remarks by the staff are prohibited.

 Corporal punishment by staff is prohibited.

 Staff may have to physically restrain a child without abuse (may hold) when a child has lost control.

 Positive reinforcement of acceptable behaviors is encouraged. 

*For every child we shall implement adaptations in teaching strategies, learning environment, and curricula, consult with the family, and seek recommendations from appropriate specialists to maximize the potential of the child to benefit from the program. If after these efforts have been made to work with the child and family, the child does not appear to be benefiting from a program, or the child is seriously jeopardizing the ability of other children to benefit from the program, we shall communicate with the family and appropriate specialists to determine the child’s current needs, identify the setting and services most suited to meeting these needs and assist the family in placing the child in an appropriate setting. (A child may have to be dismissed from the center)

*Code of Ethical Conduct and Statement of Commitment  

BITING POLICY:

Biting is a developmentally common problem that can be frustrating for parents of young children.  Parents are often embarrassed when their child bites another child and furious when their own child is bitten.  Biting is preventable to a degree, but can occur in the most well-prepared early childhood setting.  The staff at MJCDC is committed to reducing the number of biting incidents.  The following steps have been taken to prevent and reduce the incidence of biting:

·        Frustration is reduced by decreasing the amount of time children have to wait, providing duplicates of popular toys, providing adequate space to prevent       crowding, etc. 

·        Teachers encourage children to vocalize their frustrations by offering them words and gestures they can use such as “No” or “Stop” with a hand up or   “Mine”.  Children are often reminded to “Use your words”.

·        Teachers observe children for signs of teething and offer appropriate options for mouthing.  (Teething gel cannot be used.)

·        A teacher “shadows” children who have had episodes of biting by staying nearby and diffusing volatile situations before biting occurs. 

Despite these efforts, sometimes a bite will inevitably occur.  In such instances, MJCDC has adopted the following steps in dealing with occurrences in our classrooms:

·        The child who is injured is attended to first.  He/she is comforted.  The bitten area is washed with soap and water and a band aid is applied if the skin is broken. 

·        The child who bit is removed from the group and is firmly told that it is not okay to bite.  If appropriate, an alternative object such as a cold teething ring or a wet washcloth is given to the child.

·        Take home-notes are completed for both the child who is bitten and the child who bit. Children’s names will not be included.  This information is confidential.  Parents can be assured that the staff is following the steps outlined in the policy and that the parents of the child who bit are being consulted.

·        If the skin is broken an incident report is filled out. The particulars of the incident as well as factors related to the incident such as whether the child did not have a nap, the child was not feeling well, the child who bit was provoked by a certain behavior, etc are recorded to monitor when and why incidents occur. The director will be notified if the skin is broken. 

**If behavior problems are severe or persist, parents will be consulted to assist in preparing a written action plan and progress will be monitored. If progress is not noted, outside consultation may be sought.  Furthermore, MJCDC reserves the right to terminate services when the safety of other children and/or staff is endangered. 

Staff Education

According to the North Carolina Child Care Law and Rules, the following rules apply to staff:  The administrator of the child care center must be at least 21 years of age and have at least a North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent.  Lead teachers must be at least 18 and have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or a degree, diploma or certificate in Early Childhood Education.  If the admistrator or lead teachers do not meet this requirement he/she must begin credential course work within six months of being hired.  Staff younger than 18 years of age must work under the direct supervision of staff 21 years of age or older.  All staff must have training in child development each year and must undergo a criminal record background check.

Grievances

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center, Inc. strives to provide families with the highest quality of services possible.  You may, however, have questions or concerns that need to be brought to our attention outside of routine meetings and conversations.  If you have a question or concern about our program or services, please speak to your child’s teacher first.  If you feel it is not appropriate to talk with your child’s teacher or are dissatisfied with the outcome of the conversation, please contact Becky Goss, Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center’s Director.  If you are still dissatisfied with the outcome of the conversation or action taken as a result of it, you may contact Don Church, Chairman of the Board, Mt. Jefferson Child Development, Inc at 336-877-5741. 

MT. JEFFERSON CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER’S EMERGENCY PLAN SUMMARY

Facility Name and ID #: Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center, Inc NC License# 05000086

Physical Address: 626 Ashe Central School Road – Unit 1, Jefferson, NC 28640

Area Code and Phone Number: 336-846-2208

Directions to our location: Hwy 221 North / Hwy16 North to Ashe Central School Rd (across from Mountain View Elementary School); we are located in Unit 1 at Family Central (formally Ashe Central High School); Unit 1 is located on the North Wing of the Building

Name of Director: Becky Goss  (land line): 336-982-3118   (cell): 336-877-7635

Name of Assistant Director: Sharon Young (land line): 336-359-8660  (cell): 336-657-1204

Name of other Emergency Contact: Don Church (land line): 336-877-5741

Child Care Licensing Consultant: Karen Young   PO Box 1012  Lewisville NC  27018

      Office: 336-207-2151       Karen.young@dhhs.nc.gov

Maximum Number of Children/Facility Capacity: 100

Age Ranges of Children: birth to five years

Number of Children with Special Needs: 2

Number of Staff with Special Needs: 0

In-place/on-site location(s): Three entrance gates (two in front of main building and one in back of mobile unit)

(Refer to copy of facility floor plans- ATTACHED)

Off-site/nearby evacuation location: Off-site/nearby evacuation location:

Mountain View Elementary School  2789 Hwy 221 North, Jefferson NC  28640  

Phone #: 336-982-4200

Directions to location: Hwy 221 North / Hwy16 North, one mile from intersection to Mountain View Elementary School

___________________________________________________________________________________

Child attendance list(s)  and Staff attendance list(s) will be provided by: Becky Goss or Sharon Young or teachers in each of our nine classrooms

The electrical main  and fuel-oil line is located: in main hallway in furnace room

Include a copy of facility floor plans (with evacuation routes and In-place and On-Site

locations clearly indicated)

This Emergency Plan Summary was updated and submitted by: Becky Goss on September 6, 2013

The Emergency Plan Summary is updated and submitted to the local Emergency Management Office annually.

HEALTH & SAFETY PRACTICES OF THE CENTER

¨    Washing your child’s hand upon entering the classroom. If you are going to remain in your child’s classroom for any amount of time then you too must wash your hands upon entering.

¨    We must take the children outside every day unless there is a weather advisory or active precipitation. Taking the children outside even if the temperature is cold is a state daycare licensing rule. Please be sure your child has a coat, mittens or gloves and hat, hood or toboggan to wear during outdoor play. It is very important that your child have an extra change of clothes in their cubby at all time. This licensing rule applies to infant, creepers and toddlers. Please be sure your child has some type of shoes either on or in their cubby so the teachers can put them on before taking them outside.

¨    The temperature in the classrooms should always stay between 68 and 72 degrees.  This will help stop germs from spreading and is a state daycare rule.  You may want to keep an extra sweatshirt or sweater in your child’s cubby for this reason.

HAND WASHING: Hands will be washed when children arrive in the room, before and after meals, before and after bathroom use, after nose blowing or wiping, and after handling an ill child.

DIAPER CHANGING: Hands will be washed before and after changing diapers. The changing table is sterilized with recommended bleach solution before and after each use. Soiled diapers will be disposed of in a closed and sanitized container.

TOYS & EQUIPMENT: These will be sterilized daily or as needed with an approved sanitation and/or disinfectant solution.

BEDDING FOR COTS AND CRIBS:  Items for cots will be laundered at the facility on a weekly or as needed basis.  Items for cribs are to be laundered daily.

SOILED CLOTHING:  Items are to be placed in a sealed bag and sent home for laundering.

 FIRE DRILLS: Practice drills will be conducted a minimum of once monthly and recorded on record sheets provided by the state fire marshal. Evacuation procedures will be posted on the wall next to exits.

HEALTH CARE PLAN: An advisory physician, physicians’ assistant, or registered nurse may assist in the development, approval, and periodic review of the facility’s health care plan. Only children who are current on immunizations shall be admitted, with the exception those who’s parents/guardian file a physician’s letter of exemption with the Ashe County Health Department. Medical records and immunizations will be kept up to date in children’s files.

 ACCIDENTS & INJURIES: First aid will be administered to any child needing care. Each accident will be recorded on a report. Parents will be given a copy of this report, and the center will retain a copy. Serious accidents will be reported to the NC Division of Child Development within 24 hours.

  FIRST AID TRAINING: We require all of our staff to maintain a current CPR & First Aid Certificate.

 RELEASE OF CHILDREN: Children will absolutely NOT be released to anyone except those authorized to pick up the child on the enrollment form. A valid identification will be required of those authorized persons who are unfamiliar to staff. In the event a parent wishes another adult to pick up his/her child, it is required that the parent give written permission in advance.

 REPORTING CHILD ABUSE: North Carolina state law and licensing requirements states that child care facilities are required to report immediately to the police or Child Protective Services (DSS) any reason to suspect child abuse, neglect, or exploitation. We are not obligated to inform parents/guardians of report.

 CARE OF ANIMALS: We do have pets on the premises that are well-groomed and maintained in a healthy and safe environment. Children will wash their hands before and after handling or petting the animals. Parents who have children with known allergies to furry animals must alert the teacher or director immediately.

  STAFF ILLNESS: Staff members who display signs of infectious illness will not be required to be in attendance. In that event, they will be replaced by a qualified substitute until their return.

  We are a NO SMOKING – NO TOBACCO facility.  There may be no use of tobacco - smoking, chewing, dipping, etc. on the premises at any time. 

**I would like to thank Miss Barbie Anderson, Coordinator of the Wilkes Community College Child Development Center and Patricia Calloway, director of Generations Developmental Day Program for lending me a copy of their policy manuals to aid in the composition of this document. Some of this text was rewritten or copied from their policy manual to meet our needs here at Mt. Jefferson Child Development.

   Thank you, Becky Goss, Director (2003)

Mt. Jefferson Child Development Center, Inc is a Non-Profit Corporation organized under the laws of the State of North Carolina and has tax exempt status under Section 501c(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. 

EIN 20-8556252

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Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov.  Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (in Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.”