What We Ask of You
Arrival and Pick-up Times
Our Centre opens at 8.00a.m. We request that all children arrive prior to 10.00 a.m. wherever possible. Children will be able to enjoy a morning snack when they arrive. The children are free to choose the activity they would like to do, or they may choose to join-in with a teacher-led activity. A morning outdoor play time takes us through to lunch.
To avoid disruption during lunch and rest times, please arrange appointments so that you will not have to pick up your child between 11:45 am and 3:00 pm. Please be sure to call the centre ahead of time if your child’s schedule changes.
Please call the centre if:
• Someone other than a parent will be collecting your child
• You will be picking your child up early
• Your child will not be attending that day
Please note: Staff will not release your child to anyone who:
• Has not been named as an authorized pick-up person
• Is under 14 years of age
• Is, or appears to be, under the influence of alcohol or other prohibited substances. The decision of the senior staff on duty is final.
Late Pick –Up Policy
The centre closes at 5:30 pm promptly. If you expect to be late, please call as soon as possible. Late charges apply to anyone arriving after closing time. Late charges are as follows:
5:30 pm - 5:35 pm - $15.00
5.35 pm onwards - $1.00 per minute
Late fines are not part of regular daycare fees and are paid directly to the staff member who has had to stay late to care for your child.
If your child has not been picked up by 6:30 pm, and attempts to reach either a parent or emergency contact person have failed, the daycare is required by law to contact the Children’s Aid Society.
If a pattern of lateness develops, you will be asked to find alternate care for your child.
Illness and Medication
If your child is ill (i.e. diarrhea, vomiting, eye discharge, rash, persistent cough, persistent nasal discharge which is not clear or contagious disease) he or she must stay at home. If your child exhibits any of these symptoms during the day, you will be asked to pick him/her up. The staff will make every effort to keep your child comfortable while waiting for you to collect your child, and monitor their symptoms.
If your child has a contagious disease, we reserve the right to ask for a doctor’s note before the child can return to the centre. In assessing the wellness of a child, the decision of the Supervisor is final. Children must remain at home for a full twenty-four hours after a fever ends.
The Day Nurseries Act requires that all children participate in outdoor play. Please note that no exception can be made for children returning after an illness.
Medication
Staff will administer prescription medication only. The medication MUST be in the original pharmacy container and clearly labeled. Non-prescription drugs can only be administered with an accompanying doctor’s note. This note should be dated and specify the exact amount, type and frequency of the drug. A medication form must be completed for each medication. Parents are responsible for signing the Medication Form each day that the medication is required. Please make sure that the medicine is stored in the correct locked box (refrigerated or room temperature). Our full medication and illness policies are available on the Parent Information Board.
Clothing and Toys
Your child will need to bring a full change of labeled clothing. Parents are responsible for ensuring that appropriate outdoor clothing is provided, including footwear that allows for safe climbing and running in the playground – If not, staff may contact parents to pick up their child, or bring the appropriate clothing to the daycare.
A pair of running shoes (not slippers) with non-marking soles is required for indoor play and should be left at the daycare. Preschool children do not need a backpack.
At rest time, after lunch, the children sometimes enjoy a small soft toy from home to help them settle down. A small blanket from home is also welcome. All bedding is laundered at the centre, weekly.
From time to time, teachers will program special “show and share” days when children are asked to bring something from home, otherwise, please leave all other toys at home. A book or CD to enjoy with the class is always welcome.
Birthdays and Other Celebrations
Birthdays are special events at Friends Day Care! We provide an allergy-aware cake or treats for all the children at lunchtime.
Please do not send any other treats or loot bags. Teachers are not responsible for handing out party invitations. Parents can put birthday party invitations directly into friend’s backpacks or cubbies – Please be sensitive to the fact that when an entire group is not invited, feelings can get hurt.
We celebrate major holidays like Easter and Christmas, however, we welcome the opportunity to learn about and join in other cultural and religious festivals. If you would like to share a special festival with us, please let us know!
Parental Involvement
There are numerous ways to get involved with the Centre. Fundraising, demonstrating a skill or hobby, are fun ways to participate in the program and strengthen the relationship between staff, parents and children. Let us know how you would like to get involved.
