Parent Handbook For Long Day Care

Transcription

Parent Handbook - LDC
Jilly’s Educational Centre, Miller st
Parent Handbook
For
Long Day Care
© Jilly’s Educational Centre, Miller st Pty Ltd.
ABN: 59 097 038 036
Information correct as of 1 January 2008
Centre address: Level1, 75 Miller st Nth Sydney, NSW
Postal address: PO box 77, AUSTRAL NSW 2179
Ph: (02) 8084 1515 Fax: (02) 96069291 att Nth Syd
Email: [email protected] Web: www.jillys.com.au
Jilly’s LDC Centre
ph 02 8084 1515
Contents
Welcome ............................................................................................................................2
Philosophy & Goals..........................................................................................................3
Management of the Centre ...........................................................................................5
Parent participation ........................................................................................................5
Settling Your Child .........................................................................................................6
Some Details About the Centre That You Need to Know .....................................6
Hours of Operation ................................................................................................................................ 6
Enrolment ................................................................................................................................................. 6
Priority of Access .................................................................................................................................. 7
Children with Special Needs ................................................................................................................ 7
Current Fees ............................................................................................................................................ 7
Payment of Fees ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Child Care Benefit .................................................................................................................................. 8
Arrival and Collection of Children ...................................................................................................... 9
Signing In and Out ............................................................................................................................... 10
Family Access ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Termination of Care .............................................................................................................................. 11
Complaint Procedures ........................................................................................................................... 11
Our Children’s Activity Program ................................................................................ 12
Activity Program ................................................................................................................................... 12
Centre Routines .................................................................................................................................... 12
Excursions .............................................................................................................................................. 14
Swimming Excursions ........................................................................................................................... 14
What Should Your Child Wear? ........................................................................................................ 15
Food and Nutrition ............................................................................................................................... 15
Personal Toys......................................................................................................................................... 15
Birthdays and Special Events ............................................................................................................ 16
Supervision ............................................................................................................................................. 16
Guiding Children’s Behaviour .............................................................................................................. 17
Health & Safety Issues ............................................................................................... 18
Hygiene ................................................................................................................................................... 18
Immunisation ......................................................................................................................................... 18
Exclusion ................................................................................................................................................. 19
Unwell Children at the Centre ........................................................................................................... 19
Medication.............................................................................................................................................. 20
Occupational Safety & Health ........................................................................................................... 21
Sun Protection....................................................................................................................................... 21
Emergency Drills (including fire) ...................................................................................................... 21
Accidents ............................................................................................................................................... 21
First Aid Qualifications ...................................................................................................................... 22
Revision control ............................................................................................................ 23
Jilly’s Educational LDC Centre
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Welcome
Welcome to our centre. Please read this information carefully, to assist you in settling your
child/ren into the centre and to answer any questions you may have. If you require more
detailed information, or a copy of the activity program, please do not hesitate to consult
with the LDC Authorised Supervisor or a staff member. The Centre’s Policy and Procedures
Manual is available in the office for you to view at any time.
History
Jilly’s Educational centre is a privately run service licensed for 38 ‘Long Day Care’ children,
together with separate funding for OOSH as a private operator for 15 ‘Before School’, 40
‘After School’ and 30 ‘Vacation Care’ children (at a different venue).
Staff in LDC
Position
Director
Authorised Supervisor
Office Manager
Teacher (University
trained)
Trained (TAFE or College
trained)
Assistant
Cook
Cleaner
Gardener
Responsibilities
Overall direction of the Centre. Mgt team member
Overall management of staff in direct contact with
children and responsible for the children themselves.
Mgt team member
All accounts, human resources, payroll. Mgt team
member
Room leader
Room leader
All staff employed for LDC have the following Attitudes:
- Positive
- Directive
- Responsive
- Encouraging
- Loving
- Nurturing
- Caring
Student placements and Volunteers
All students are screened with a “working with children’s check” prior to placement. They
are provided with the staff handbook, routines and programs. They are able to access
the Polices and Procedures (P&P) manual of the service to become familiar with the
running of the service.
Jilly’s Educational Centre
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Volunteers from the local community, community services and parents/family members
are encouraged to share their knowledge and experiences with the children. They are
informed prior of their role and responsibilities whilst in the service or on excursions.
Philosophy & Goals
OUR PHILOSOPHY
At Jilly's we believe in providing more than just childcare, we provide quality. We
understand that the first five years in a child's life, is critical in shaping their future.
Therefore …
In relation to the child:
We believe in nurturing the child, to facilitate their motor, cognitive, emotional,
social, intellectual and self help developmental skills. One where individuality of the
child is respected regardless of their diverse backgrounds, or additional needs .
Where education, language and understanding are looked on as a vital component of a
child's educational process . Where the relationship between children and staff is one of
mutual respect.
In relation to the families and community:
We believe in an association of trust and support for families. To be sensitive and
respectful of all people who use our centre including people with disabilities,
multicultural, religious and linguistically diverse speaking backgrounds. To welcome the
wider community with open arms.
In relation to our staff:
We believe in providing qualified, experienced and caring staff to work as a team and
to meet the individual needs of each child. Our teaching staff have a sound bas e of
knowledge of early childhood approaches and curriculum. We are open to employing
untrained staff for training within the educational field – trainees. We extend our
professionalism to workplace students from universities and colleges, as to give bac k
to the community students with knowledge and understanding.
OUR GOALS
For the children;
o 0-2’s: To provide a warm and nurturing, caring, stimulating and sensory environment
for the child as a whole, with the introduction of literacy, creative arts, the building
of social/ emotional and self help skills.
o 2-3’s: To provide a secure environment where the child is valued and respected.
Where the child is encouraged through a supportive network building self-help skills
such as toileting, recognising and looking after personal belongings, developing and
building of confidence, social and emotional skills. Fostering understanding and
respect for not just the individual but also others within the learning community that
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is – building a sense of responsibility. Providing and engaging in stronger links to
literacy and numeracy skills.
o 3-5's: To provide an environment where there is a balance of both stimulating
educational planned and spontaneous experiences allowing the child to problem solve,
make decisions and seek choices. These experiences will be based on stage
appropriateness of each child, thereby allowing them to explore there environment
according to their individual requirements, eventually leading into the centre's pre school program.
o All Children: We aspire to provide a safe and nurturing environment for the children to
learn, build friendships and grow as an individual.
o The Centres Program: Exhibits sound links to language and literacy, mathematics and
numeracy, physical and personal development. The learning environment reflects our
centres diverse community, with cultural understanding and support of families
through interaction, support of community services - with regard to home languages
and customs thereby building knowledge and respect for all.
For the families and community;
o By providing a safe, clean environment both indoors and outdoors.
o To provide for parents and families a network of service and community trained
personnel who will facilitate the families and their child's needs to the best of
their ability.
o By having an open door policy whereby anybody at any time is always welcome into
the centre and, by encouraging families to become involved in their child's learning,
thereby fostering relationships and building support with staff. Staff and families
need to work together as a team to completely understand and appreciate the
services policies, procedures and child rearing practices in order to foster optima l
development of each child.
o To encourage families to have a voice, and to feel welcome and unencumbered in
speaking to staff or management out issues or concerns. Families have the right to
be informed and involved in decisions concerning their children's program and its
implementation.
o To utilise the greater community through accessing the many resources and
personnel available to the service. The service of a bilingual worker or interpreter
may facilitate this process.
o We aim to establish a two-way flow of communication between the service and the
child/ family/ community
o Everyone associated with the centre (staff, parents, children) has the right to the
protection of personal information.
o Aim to build links with the community
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For the staff;
o By encouraging staff to further their understanding and knowledge by providing
training resources, such as in-services, workshops, etc.
o By encouraging staff to work as a team, where management works with staff for
the good of the whole service.
Management of the Centre
The Centre is privately operated, however parental involvement is very important to ensure
the service is meeting family needs. All families are welcome to be a part of the Parent
Committee. The Parent Committee Meetings are held once a month. A list of current Parent
Committee members is displayed on the notice board in the office. The minutes of these
meetings are also posted on the notice board in the office. You are welcome to read them
at any time. The Parent Committee is responsible for raising issues on behalf of the
families who use the service.
During the year, the directors organises informal social events for parents at which you can
get to know other parents and the staff. You are encouraged to attend these ‘get
togethers’ to find out a little more about the Centre and to establish friendships with other
families that your child will meet at the Centre.
Parent participation
Parents are our biggest support. Their encouragement and assistance, in whatever way,
such as coming to a parent night, collecting bits and pieces for the craft corner, help with
fund raising, attending excursions and helping at busy bees, would be of invaluable
assistance.
You are encouraged to become involved with the program of the centre and your ideas and
suggestions will be greatly appreciated. We are always happy to have people come into the
centre with interesting things to show and share, sing, teach, and make with the children,
especially activities of a multicultural nature such as traditional cooking or art.
You can be involved by discussing your child’s temperament, strengths, likes and dislikes and
any special interest with the staff. Even though a parent’s life is very busy, we would
appreciate a few minutes when you bring and collect your child to talk about how he/she is
enjoying/participating in the program.
To give the children the best opportunity for positive involvement in our program, centre
staff and parents work hand-in-hand. We want children to gain the best that is possible
from our centre, so please do keep in touch and discuss any problems, concerns and/or
feelings you may have with the staff.
We have a Parent Meeting is held monthly. Please see the Centre’s ‘Newsletter’ for details
of the date and time. All parents, friends and staff are welcome to attend.
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Settling Your Child
Our service caters for a wide range of pre-school school age children. Children may have
had little previous experience of multi-age groupings. Some of the younger children in
particular, may need time to settle and feel secure within the service. Our staff are
experienced in encouraging children to feel at home and make new friends, and ensure that
children of all ages treat each other with care and respect.
If you are concerned about your child in any way please telephone the service during the
time your child is attending for reassurance of your child’s well being. The staff will always
tell you honestly how your child is. Our staff are also happy to discuss your child’s emotional
needs with you, if any issues arise.
Some Details About the Centre That You Need to Know
The following information will help you to understand the administrative requirements of
enrolling your child into our service and the operational policies that you need to know.
Hours of Operation




The centre is open between 7:30am – 6:00pm, Monday to Friday.
A late fee will be billed to your account if your child is not picked up before
closing time (6.00pm).
The centre is closed on public holidays
We are open 52 weeks per year.
Enrolment
Should you wish to enrol your child, you will be asked to complete an Enrolment Form (P&P
A-3) requesting information about your child’s health, custody arrangements and emergency
contacts. You will need to name all persons who may deliver and/or collect your child from
the Centre. It is your responsibility to ensure your nominated people are responsible and
available when required.
The details required on the Enrolment Form are needed by our staff to help them take the
best possible care of your child. All information is strictly confidential. If any of the
details on the enrolment form change you are asked to advise the Authorised Supervisor/
Supervisor immediately.
At the time of enrolment you will be asked to pay two weeks fees in advance, fully
disclose any medical or health concerns relating to your child, and agree to lodge your
application with the Family Assistance Office for Child Care Benefit within 28 days of your
child starting care.
Our Enrolment Policy is located in P&P manual, section A-3.
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Priority of Access
The Commonwealth Government has set specific priorities of access to childcare services.
The Commonwealth Government’s requirements on priority of access
Priority of access policy in P&P manual section, A-2


The Commonwealth Government requires the Centre to provide access to the service
according to the following priorities. This means that when the Centre is full, those
families who are third priority may be asked to alter their care arrangements to allow a
family with higher priority to access the service.
1st A child at risk of serious abuse or neglect
2nd A child of a single parent who satisfies, or of parents who both satisfy, the
work/training/study test under section 14 of the Family Assistance Act.
3rd Any other child.
Children with Special Needs
Our Centre caters for children with additional needs. This is covered in Caring for Children
with Additional Needs is covered in P7P manual A-17
Children with special needs that cannot be catered for within the usual Centre routine, will
be integrated into the whole group with additional support from a supplementary (SUPS)
worker. Referral to the SUPS worker or other professionals is made either directly by the
parent, or by the Authorised Supervisor after permission is given by the parent.
Where possible, support will be obtained prior to the commencement of care. This will
ensure transition into care is successful for all concerned.
Additional training of staff can be arranged for the use of any special equipment your child
may need to use.
Current Fees
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Our current fee schedules are:


Posted on Jilly’s Web site. www.jillys.com.au
Posted on the Office door.
Payment of Fees
Our Centre’s operation is dependent on maintaining fees.
information carefully

Please read the following
Our Fees Policy is in the P7P manual, section A-4.
Fees must be paid for two weeks in advance. Parents pay for a place, therefore, if they are
booked in, payment is required whether their child attends or not. Fees are payable on
public holidays if your child attends 1 to 4 days per week, you will receive a make up day.
Five (5) day per week children are not charged for public holidays. Casual care Fees will be
added to the next statement. Casual care clients cannot always be guaranteed a place in
the service, however the licence does allow to over book in emergencies.
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The Office staff will provide a statement of fees due each fortnight (via email). You are
asked to pay your fees promptly to ensure the viability of the service. You will encounter a
late fee if your fees are not paid……….It is preferred to have fees paid by EFT. Receipts
will be provided and put into your pocket on the wall next to the main entrance. Details of
individual families accounts and all completed forms are confidential and may only be
accessed by the family concerned and those centre staff who need to access the
information.
Anyone experiencing difficulties in meeting their fees payments can speak to the Director
who can make mutually agreeable repayment arrangements. If your fees are more than two
weeks overdue and you have not made arrangements to pay or have not kept to
arrangements made, your child’s place may be cancelled.
Unpaid Fees will incur an Arrears Fee.
Please inform the Authorised Supervisor in writing if your child is going to be away for
longer than one week.
Parents should notify the Centre if their child will not be attending during their booked
time, Telephone (02) 8084 1515.
Child Care Benefit
All families who meet Australian residency requirements are now eligible for Child Care
Benefit (CCB). You can apply for this payment, which will reduce your child care fees or
entitle you to a lump sum payment at the end of the financial year, at the Family Assistance
Office.

Child Care Benefit is covered under the Fees policy P&P section A-4.
Copies of the Child Care Benefit application form are available at the Centre. Please ask
the Authorised Supervisor. If your child is under 7 years old, you will also be asked to
provide evidence of your child’s immunisation status to the Family Assistance Office.
CCB entitlements are payable on 42 allowable absences per year.
CCB entitlements are payable on all approved absences. These must be recorded with the
adequate documentation. Eg. medical certificate.
Fee Reduction Families
Families’ income is assessed and is used to determine the amount of CCB. DEEWA are
electronically connected to the Centres computer and will automatically update us of the
CCB fee reduction estimate within 10 days. You must lodge your application within 28 days
of your child beginning care to ensure your DEEWA Assessment reaches the Centre in time
to backdate your entitlements to the time of beginning care The Centre cannot reduce
your fees until you have been billed for one week and we have made a claim on
DEEWA, who will then electronically inform us of the fee reduction for the previous
week.
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Lump Sum Payment Families
Families who wish to receive a lump sum payment at the end of the financial year, instead of
having their fees reduced during the year, need to have a Customer Reference Number
(CRN) and provide us with your DOB. You need to contact CentreLink and complete a
request form for a CRN for the parent claiming the Benefit, and one for each child
attending care at the centre. The service needs to have this number and the parents DOB
at the very beginning of the year, before the first statement.
Please note: The forms that you sign for the purposes of CCB are legal documents, and we
are asked to remind you that giving false information is a criminal offence.
It is your responsibility to notify CentreLink if your circumstances change.
Arrival and Collection of Children
Our primary concern is the welfare and safety of your child. We therefore request that
you comply with the following requirements.
 Our Arrival and Collection of Children Policy is covered under P&P section A-5.
Arriving at the centre
We request that children be brought to a staff member upon arrival. There are two staff
on duty at all times. Please keep to the attendance days requested on your enrolment form
as this enables the Authorised Supervisor to compile accurate staff work rosters. If you
wish to change your days please speak to the Authorised Supervisor or Office Manager.
Authorised Persons
The Centre’s primary concern is for the safety and welfare of your child and will therefore
only release your child into the care of the custodial parent or authorised persons
identified on your child’s enrolment form. Any changes to these authorities must be advised
in writing to the centre as soon as possible. If an unauthorised person arrives to collect
your child, the child will not be released until your authorisation (preferably in writing) has
been obtained. You must ensure your child’s collection from the centre is reliably organised,
as uncertainties and irregularities can cause anxiety for your child and the Centre staff.
Late Collections
If you are unavoidably detained and unable to collect your child at the agreed time you must
telephone the centre on 02 8084 1515 and advise of your expected time of arrival. If you
need to arrange for another person to collect your child you must provide full details about
this person to the centre. If you have not contacted the Centre and your child has not been
collected by closing time the centre will attempt to telephone you. If this is not successful,
the emergency contact people listed on your child’s enrolment form will then be contacted
to arrange for immediate collection of your child.
The centre has a policy of charging a fee to parents who are late to collect their children
from the centre. This fee is to cover the costs of staff overtime hours. The centre will
contact Crisis Care and the police to advise them of the situation if a parent is more than
15 minutes late without explanation and no-one else can be contacted.
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Children’s Safety on the Roads
In the case of a parent or guardian arriving at the centre to collect their child in a visibly
intoxicated or unfit state to drive, they will be encouraged to contact an alternative adult
to drive them and the child home, or the centre will offer to call a taxi at the expense of
the parent/guardian.
Bus
The centre has a 19-seater bus for use with OOSH (Vacation Care) and LDC excursions.
Our Bus Policy is covered under P7P section
Parents are responsible to liaise with school staff to ensure their child will not be held
back. Parents must also make sure their child knows where the pick-up point is and that
they must be there on time.
Parents are required to contact the centre to advise of their child’s inability to attend as
soon as this is known so that their name can be withdrawn from the daily bus pick-up list.
Children travelling on the bus will be required to remain seated at all times and display
appropriate behaviour.
Signing In and Out
Signing children in and out of the Centre is a daily requirement. The following policy applies
to all families.

Our Policy on Signing in and out is covered in P&P manual, section A-5.
Accurate attendance records will be kept and checked each day. Whoever brings your child
to the centre or collects your child at the end of the day is required to initial the child’s
times of arrival and departure. A signing IN and OUT folder has been developed for this
purpose. Each child name is in the folder.
This is a legal requirement of the Family Assistance Office. If you do not complete these
records you will not be eligible to claim Child Care Benefit.
Family Access
We will work in partnership with families at all times and welcome your input and access to
the service according to the following guidelines:

Our Family Access Policy is located in P&P manual, section A-9.
Communication with Parents
Staff at the centre are supportive of children and their parents. Both parents of the child
will be treated equally. Without legal documentation staff cannot act as though one parent
is more fit than another to the legal rights of their child. Parents may visit the centre at
any reasonable time whilst their child is in care. Any concerns you have may be discussed
with a staff member or the Authorised Supervisor at any reasonable time. All information
about your child will always be treated with the upmost confidentiality.
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Custodial Issues
Where a child attending the Centre is not living with both parents, or where disputes arise
in relation to responsibility for the child the following will apply:

Parental responsibility remains with both parents jointly and individually except
where it is altered by an order of the Family Court of Australia. In the absence of
such an order the child will be released to either parent who is the authorised person
to collect the child.

Where a non-enrolling parent cites an Order of the Family Court giving him/herself
lawful access to the child, the order needs to be produced for inspection by the
Authorised Supervisor. The enrolling parent will be telephoned both to check the
existence of the order and to be informed about the situation.

The child will only be released into the care of the parent with Parental
Responsibility for the child, or other person specifically authorised by that parent,
except when the Department for Community Service or the Police specifically direct
otherwise under the provisions of the Child Welfare Act.
Termination of Care
In extreme circumstances it may be necessary to terminate a child’s care.

Our Termination of Care Policy is located in P&P manual, section A-21.
Exclusion of children from the service will only occur after all other avenues of
communication and support have been exhausted and when:

Professional advice confirms a child is in psychological danger as a result of an
unusually prolonged inability to settle into care away from the parent.

A child puts the majority of children at risk through inappropriate behaviour (P&P
manual D-17).

The parent continually fails to observe centre hours of operation and/or continuously
fails to pay the required fee.
Complaint Procedures
Please let us know if you are not satisfied with any aspect of the service we provide for you
and your child.

Our Complaint and Grievance Procedure is located at P7P manual, section A-10.
We welcome all parent feedback, including your grievances and complaints, as these will help
us to improve the services we provide. All concerns or complaints will be dealt with in a
prompt, positive and sympathetic manner.
If you have a complaint or a concern, you may discuss your problem with a relevant staff
member or with the Authorised Supervisor. If you feel the problem is not being resolved,
you may take the matter to the director for resolution, either through the Authorised
Supervisor or by writing directly to the director.
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Our Children’s Activity Program
Our staff are supportive, encouraging, and communicate with the children in a friendly,
positive and courteous manner to establish a warm and caring relationship with each child in
their care. Staff are happy to discuss your child’s participation in the program with you,
and we encourage you to stay for a chat prior to taking your child home at the end of the
day.
Activity Program
Children who attend our Centre may participate in a range of activities that have been
planned to reflect the children’s interests and meet their developmental needs.
Our policy on programming is located in P7P manual, section E-2.

The staff are responsible for creating an atmosphere and environment which is responsive
to the needs of each individual child and to the group as a whole and which reflects the
philosophy and goals of the service. The program will be balanced and include indoor and
outdoor learning experiences, quiet and active times, individual, small group and large group
times, time for individual staff/child interaction, group interests, children’s special
interests, and be flexible enough to allow for spontaneity and the unexpected.
Children will be encouraged to have input into program planning. The program will be child
centred and will allow children to experience a variety of materials and pursue their own
interests. There will always be alternative choices when a child does not want to participate
in a particular activity.
You will find the fortnightly program displayed in the LDC rooms. We invite you to have
input into program development especially in relation to multicultural issues, music and
storytelling. Any suggestions you have can be put into the Suggestions Box in the reception
area or discussed directly with Centre staff.
Centre Routines
The activities that happen at the centre are built around the daily routines.
Routines are built around the regular events of the day i.e. arrival, taking the attendance
record, snacks/drinks, hand washing, lunch break when on Vacation Care, and departure.
These routines take into account the developmental needs of individual children, children’s
attendance patterns, climate and physical environment, the numbers and ages of children
within a given group, children with special needs, new children entering the group and
parents expectations.

Our Routines Policy is located in P7P manual, section E-1
Bunnies (Infants) Routine
7:30am
Centre Opens, all chn are in indoor/outdoor play area room. Breakfast and free
play.
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8:30am
8:30am
9:00am
9:30am
10:00am
10:30am
10:40am
11:00am
11:30am
Noon
2:00pm
2:30pm
3:30pm
3:50pm
4:00pm
5:00pm
5:15pm
5:45pm
6:00pm
Breakfast finishes
Nappy change
Morning Tea.
Free play (indoor or outdoor program).
Nappy change.
Music activity
Literacy time.
Lunch
Nappy change
Rest time
Nappy change. Afternoon tea.
Free play inside.
Playschool.
Outdoor free play
Nappy change.
Pack up yard Wash hands,
Late Afternoon tea.
Family grouping
Centre closes.
Possums (Toddlers) Routine
7:30am
8:30am
8:30am
9:15am
10:00am
10:25am
11:00am
11:15am
11:45am
Noon
2:00pm
2:30pm
3:00pm
3:15pm
4:00pm
4:15pm
5:15pm
5:45pm
6:00pm
play.
Breakfast finishes
Possums move to their room, nappy change, outdoor play
Morning tea, on back verandah
Nappy change/toileting
Inside activities
Individual small language group
Lunch
Nappy change
Rest time
Wake up, Nappy change, toileting, quiet activities.
Afternoon tea
Music and movement on large mat
Outdoor play
Nappy change
Tidy up and move to Kookaburras yard
Late afternoon tea, nappy change, toileting
Family grouping
Centre closes.
Kookaburras (Pre-schoolers) Routine
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7:30am
8:30am
9:00am
9:30am
10:40am
10:55am
11:20am
11:30am
12:10pm
12:45pm
2:20pm
2:30pm
2:40pm
2:55pm
3:15pm
3:30pm
3:50pm
5:15pm
5:45pm
6:00pm
play.
Breakfast finishes
Morning Tea. (Outdoor weather permitting), roll call.
Big yard organised activities.
Veranda. Drinks, toilet and had washing.
Indoors. Free play and programmed experiences.
Children pack away and tidy the room.
Literacy time on the mat.
Lunch
Rest and quiet time.
Start waking sleepers. Other children pack away toys they were using.
Children sit on mat and evaluate the days activities with the teachers.
Frinedship Bear time
Afternoon Tea
Children get ready for outside and listen to music
Playschool
Outdoor free play
Late Afternoon Tea
Family grouping
Centre closes.
Excursions
Children will be taken on excursions outside of the Centre as part of the planned activities
of the Centre.

Our Excursion Policy is located in P7P manual, section E-5.
Excursions are considered to be an integral part of the children’s program and will
therefore be arranged from time to time, to provide a broad range of learning experiences.
For all excursions, written permission and the cost will be sought from parents and details
of the outing provided in writing. Excursion plans will be submitted to the Authorised
Supervisor for approval prior to the excursion taking place.
You are requested not to send your child on an excursion if they display any signs of being
unwell. This is in the interests of everyone concerned. Staff carry mobile phones on
excursions with them and the contact details of each child’s parent. If you need to get in
touch with your child on an excursion you can contact the centre and they will forward the
message, and if necessary the staff will contact you back on the mobile.
Centre number: (02) 8084 1515
Bus mobile number: 0409 741 005
Swimming Excursions
No swimming activities will be planned
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What Should Your Child Wear?
It is important that children are in comfortable clothes that do not restrict their
enjoyment or participation at the Centre.
We do provide aprons but clothes can still get stained when children are involved in messy
activities.
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Children are required to wear ‘closed in’ shoes
Children must wear sleaved tops for sun protection.
A hat marked with their name.
During the winter months please ensure your child brings a jumper.
During summer, occasionally children can bring swimming costumes and their own
towel for wet activities, but they must were a sleaved t-shirt to protect their
shoulders and back from the sun.
Pls provide for a change of clothing.
Food and Nutrition
Snacks form a significant part of the Centre routine.

Our Food and Nutrition Policy is in P7P manual, section D-2.
Please make sure that any food allergies, strong dislike and/or special dietary requirements
your child might have are recorded on the enrolment form and discussed with the
Authorised Supervisor.
The Centre provides for all meals. The menu will be changed weekly (over a 5 week cycle),
be nutritionally balanced and reflect a wide variety of cultures. Consideration will also be
given to cost effectiveness. Children are often involved in preparing and cooking snacks as
part of the planned activity program. Children are taught how to store, prepare and serve
food hygienically. The weekly menu is displayed on the fridge in the LDC room. Ideas and
recipes are welcome. Please put your ideas in the Suggestions Box. From time to time
recipes for both you and your child’s enjoyment will be printed in our monthly newsletter.
Meal times are treated as social occasions. The staff always sit with the children during
meal times to interact with them, provide help where needed and set a good example for
the children.
We do not provide Nutella or peanut based food
Personal Toys
The Centre provides a wide variety of sports equipment, games and toys for all children to
play with and we encourage children to leave their personal toys at home.

Personal Toys policy, please see P&P, section A-23.
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We understand that many children would like to bring toys to the Centre, however if toys
get damaged or lost at the Centre it can cause great distress for the child. We request
therefore that all personal toys are left at home. Whilst all care is taken, the Centre will
take no responsibility for broken or lost toys that do not belong to the centre.
Birthdays and Special Events
Children’s birthdays are a special day that we enjoy celebrating with them.

Celebrating Children’s Birthdays.
If parents wish the centre to celebrate their child’s birthday they may provide a cake for
afternoon tea. The staff will encourage the children to sing “Happy Birthday” Parents are
more than welcome to join the occasion if they can.
We consider that special events which happen during the year provide an excellent learning
and socialising opportunity for the children.

Celebrating special events, please see P&P manual, section E-8.
Programs will reflect the cultural differences of all families using the service. The Centre
will celebrate special events with the children that reflect the cultural heritage and ethnic
origins of children attending the service. The following events are celebrated at the Centre
each year:
 Special Persons’ Days (i.e. Mothers’ Day, Fathers’ Day etc.)
 Chinese New Year
 Easter
 Christmas
The Centre understands that some parents may not wish their child to participate in some
celebrations and therefore notice will be given in the monthly newsletter of forthcoming
celebrations, so that parents may choose whether or not their child will participate.
Supervision
The Centre will maintain high levels of supervision of children at all times.

Our Staff to Child ratio Policy is at P7P manual, section C-11.
The staff to child ratios contained Childrens Service Regulation 2004 will be strictly
adhered to at the Centre. The ratio is 1:5 for babies, 1:8 for toddlers and 1:10 for
pre-schoolers during operating hours. This ratio does change (more stringent) for
excursions.
Staff will position themselves where they can see all the children under their supervision,
listen carefully to what is happening and know the children individually so they can
anticipate their needs. Staff will join in the children’s play and encourage them to try new
experiences.
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Children outdoors will be appropriately supervised and will be given opportunities for selfdiscovery and freedom of choice. Children will be regularly reminded of safety procedures
for play equipment. Children will be encouraged to try new challenges as appropriate.
The centre plan (and Fire Plan), clearly defines the boundaries and areas where children
may safely play. It is displayed on the entrance door. Parents are asked to become familiar
with the plan and reinforce with their child that they must stay within the boundaries.
Guiding Children’s Behaviour
Learning appropriate behaviour is part of your child’s social development. Our staff aim to
help children to be responsible for their own behaviour and to develop an understanding of
what is appropriate in different situations.

Our Behaviour Management Policy in P&P manual, section E-7.
You are encouraged to discuss your child’s behaviour with centre staff to ensure consistent
behaviour expectations, both at home and at the centre. Limits to children’s behaviour will
always be clearly expressed in positive terms and reinforced consistently in a
developmentally appropriate way. Children will be encouraged to settle their differences in
a peaceful manner. The staff will focus on positive behaviour, providing praise and
encouragement where appropriate. Wherever possible, problems will be prevented before
they arise by using methods such as diversion and providing enough equipment for all.
Limits
We find the following limits/rules necessary to protect the safety and well-being of every
child and ask parents to reinforce these with their child:
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Respect for other people and their property.
Noisy play is to be conducted outside.
Please stay within the boundaries.
Take care of the equipment.
Developing a supportive relationship with the children encourages them to learn skills in
self-discipline. Punishing a child stops the negative behaviour for a while but does not teach
the child self-restraint. When “time-out” is used as a consequence of negative behaviour
the reasons will be discussed with the child and the “time-out” period will be no longer than
5 minutes. A “time-out” period may be needed so the child can calm down before discussing
what happened and sharing their feelings with the staff member, who will in turn talk about
their own feelings and responsibilities with the child. Staff will always talk to the child
quietly and as an equal. No further punishment will be given and the child will be reminded in
positive terms of the expected behaviour.
At no time will a child receive any form of corporal punishment e.g. smacked, or be placed in
a room alone, made immobile, frightened or humiliated in any way, verbally or emotionally
punished, nor will food or drink be withheld as a form of punishment.
If children consistently display unacceptable behaviour the staff will ensure:
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The expectations of the child’s behaviour are realistic and appropriate to their
developmental level and culture.
The child understands the limits.
There is no conflict between centre, school and home expectations.
The child’s needs are being met.
The child has no impediments that may be causing the unacceptable behaviour e.g.
dietary problems, poor hearing, poor co-ordination, communication difficulties, illness
or emotional distress.
The child is not copying observed behaviour.
Events at the Centre have not encouraged the behaviour.
Consequences of the behaviour do not encourage it to persist.
Strategies are consistently followed by all staff in contact with the child.
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Members of staff are always available to discuss and assist with any concern a parent may
have in respect to the child’s behaviour or participation in the program, and will work with
parents to address any persistent behaviour problems.
Alternative care
After the child has been given every chance to respond positively, and parents have been
provided with written reports regarding the strategies used to improve their child’s
behaviour, and if all methods fail to result in a positive change, the Authorised Supervisor
will discuss alternative care or termination of care with the parent, in consideration of the
health and safety of other children in care.
Health & Safety Issues
Hygiene
In group care situations one of the most troublesome problems is to control the spread of
infections among both the children and the staff.

Our Hygiene Policy is located in P7P manual, section D-1.
The application of universal hygiene procedures will be followed at the Centre at all times to
control the spread of infection within the Centre. Staff role model a high level of personal
hygiene at all times, and place emphasis on the children learning and understanding why
hygiene is important. Hand washing is central to this system and children will be asked to
wash their hands before all clean tasks (eg. snack time) and after all dirty tasks (eg. after
using the toilet).
Immunisation
Immunisation of children who attend the Centre will help to limit the spread of infection.

Our Immunisation Policy is in the P&P manual, Section .
We encourage parents to immunise their children against all diseases appropriate to the
child’s age. Children who are not immunised will be excluded from care during outbreaks of
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some infectious diseases in accordance with the National Health & Medical Research Council
Exclusion Guidelines, even if the child is well. This is to limit the spread of infection and to
protect all children.
Exclusion
As a protection for all children and staff the following exclusion policy applies to all
children enrolled in the Centre.

Our Exclusion Policy is found in P&P manual, section D-11
Children with infectious diseases will be excluded from the Centre in accordance with the
National Health & Medical Research Council Exclusion Guidelines (on display in the office).
A medical certificate is required after contracting diphtheria, hepatitis A, polio,
tuberculosis, typhoid and paratyphoid before your child can be re-admitted to the Centre.
If your child is unwell at home please do not bring him/her to the centre. Children who have
more than a slight cold should not be brought to the centre and may not be accepted at the
Authorised Supervisor’s discretion. Fevers, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained rashes are
some of the indications that a child should not be brought to the centre.
Unwell Children at the Centre
The Centre operates to provide care for well children and aims to ensure a safe and healthy
environment for all the children in its care. The centre is not able to care for children who
are ill. The following policy has been developed to protect your child and the other children
attending the Centre.
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Our Policy on Unwell Children is located in P&P manual, section D-11.
See also ‘Administration of Medication Policy’ in P&P manual, section, D-14.
It is important that the Authorised Supervisor be notified if your child has been unwell or
received an injury since last attending the centre.
In the event your child becomes ill whilst at the centre, you will be contacted and asked to
collect your child. Where the Authorised Supervisor has asked you to seek medical advice
regarding your child’s health, you will be given details about your child’s symptoms and
information of any illnesses that have recently affected children and/or staff at the centre
to relay to the doctor. The doctor will need to provide a Clearance Certificate that
pronounces your child fit for care before they can return to the centre. On your child’s
enrolment form you have given approval for an ambulance or doctor to be called if urgent
medical attention is required. Every effort will be made to contact you or your nominated
emergency contact people as soon as possible. All medical and ambulance costs are the
parent's responsibility.
In the event of an outbreak of a communicable disease at the centre, families and the
Health Department will be notified.
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Medication
The giving of medication to children will be strictly monitored to ensure the child’s safety
and welfare.
Our Medication Policy is in the P&P manual, Section D-14.

Whenever possible, medication should be administered by parents/guardians at home.
However, this is not always feasible. Therefore, to ensure children’s safety and welfare,
the giving of medication at the centre will be strictly monitored. Parents/guardians should
consider whether the child who requires medication is well enough to be at the centre, and
to keep the child home if unwell.
Only prescribed medications, not out of date, and with the childs name on it, or medications
accompanied by an explanatory letter from the child’s doctor will be administered by staff at
the centre. This is to ensure an accurate dosage of appropriate medicine is given to children at
all times.
Any kind of medication including cough mixtures, eye or ear drops, medicated creams, insect
repellents, herbal remedies will only be given/applied if accompanied by clear instructions
from the child’s doctor.
Medication will only be administered at the centre if:
1.
2.
3.
It is prescribed by a doctor and has the original pharmaceutical dispensing label
detailing the child’s name, the name of the medication, the dosage, the date of
dispensing and the expiry date; OR
It is still in the original pharmaceutical packaging (ie. Non-prescription
medication), indicating the name of the medication, the dosage and the expiry
date; AND
The parent/guardian has completed and signed an authority to give medication
form on the day that it is to be administered.
Medication is NOT to be left in a child’s bag. It is to be given directly to a staff member to
put in the medication cabinet or medication fridge.
Before medication is administered, the staff member will check the correct dosage with
another staff member. After the administration the staff member will fill out a form
detailing the date, time, child’s name, medication, dosage, person who administered and
person who verified.
Self-administration by an enrolled child is not allowable without direct supervision from a
staff member.
Where medication is needed for long-term treatment (eg. Asthma, epilepsy, ADD), the
centre will need a letter from the child’s doctor detailing the medical condition, correct
dosage of medication and how the condition is to be managed.
If a child is receiving medication at home but not at the centre, the centre should still be
notified of the purpose of the medication, its nature and the possible side effects it may
have on the child while they are in care.
ph 02 8084 1515
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Occupational Safety & Health
Our Centre is concerned with protecting the health and safety of children and staff at the
Centre.
Our Occupational Safety & Health Policy is in the P&P manual, section D-19.

In the interest of Occupational Safety and Health, and the well being of the children, the
centre is a smoke-free zone. This includes all indoor and outdoor play areas and anywhere
that is within sight of the children. We request that parents adhere to this. Staff are
vigilant to identify and remove any hazards that may create a risk to children or
themselves. All equipment, toys and play areas are checked regularly to ensure they are
clean and safe for children’s use.
Sun Protection
To ensure all children attending the Centre are protected from skin damage caused by
harmful ultra-violet rays of the sun the following applies:
Our Sun Protection Policy is in P&P manual, section D-6.

Children will wear a hat whenever outside and will be encouraged to use available areas of
shade during outdoor activities. SPF 30+ broad spectrum water resistant sunscreen will be
provided for children and applied 15 minutes before going outside. Outdoor play will not
occur in extreme heat or at the hottest time of the day.
Staff will act as role models, by wearing hats, applying sunscreen and seeking the shade
wherever possible.
Emergency Drills (including fire)
Emergency drills will be run once per month to ensure that children and staff are familiar
with the procedures should an emergency occur.
Our Emergency Policy is located in P&P manual, section D-7.

Evacuation procedures are displayed in eacg room and both exit doors. Parents are asked to
familiarise themselves with these procedures.
Accidents
Despite every precaution, accidents will occur at the Centre from time to time. The
following policy is implemented to protect your child and keep you informed should an
accident occur.

Our Accident Policy is located in the P&P manual, section D-9.
You are required to provide written authority (included in the enrolment form) for staff of
the Centre to seek medical attention for your child if required in an emergency.
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In the case of a minor accident, staff who are qualified in First Aid will attend to the
injured child and apply first aid. (There is always a staff member qualified in First-Aid on
each shift) Depending on the injury, you will be contacted at the time of the accident or
informed about the incident when you arrive to collect your child.
If a serious accident occurs which requires more than simple first aid treatment you will be
contacted immediately or, if you cannot be contacted, your emergency contact person will
be phoned. Your child’s injuries will be assessed and either an ambulance will be called or
your child will be taken to a local clinic or medical practitioner for medical treatment. A
staff member will accompany your child until you are able to be there. You will be asked to
sign the accident report completed by the person in charge at the centre at the time of the
accident and be provided with a copy of this report.
First Aid Qualifications
It is a requirement that at least one staff member with a current First Aid and CPR
qualification is on duty at the Centre at all times children are on the premises.

Our First Aid Policy is found in the P&P manual, section D-8.
All staff at the centre are required to maintain a current Senior First Aid Certificate. First
Aid will only be administered by qualified first aiders in the event of minor accidents or to
stabilise the patient until expert assistance arrives.
A fully equipped First Aid Kit is maintained at the Centre.
Thank you for taking the time to read our Parent Handbook.
Please speak with the Authorised Supervisor if you require any
further clarification.
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Revision control
Jilly’s Educational Centre is committed to consultation and cooperation between
management, its employees and parents in the identification, assessment and control of
the ‘Policies and Procedures’ to achieve best practice in the field of child-care.
The ‘Policies and Procedures’ are applicable to “Jilly’s Educational Centre, Miller st Pty Ltd”, ABN 59 097 038
036 in all its operations and functions, including the situations where employees are required to work off site.
The ‘Parent Handbook’ is reviewed annually and modified as required to reflect changes in the organisation or
to relevant legislation.
Policy Authorised by:
C Buchtmann / Company Secretary
Date: 1 January 2008
Revision History:
Revision
number
1
Date
Summary of changes
Company
Secretary
Signature
1/1/08
Initial policy drafted and approved
C Buchtmann
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Parent Handbook For Long Day Care

Transcription

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