Parent Handbook

GODDARD CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER, INC.Greenbelt, Maryland

2010-2011

PARENT HANDBOOK

G ODDAR D CHI L D DEVELOP M ENT CEN TER , IN C.

Parent Handbook

NASA GODDARD SPACE FLIGHT CENTERMail Code 200.9

Greenbelt, MD 20771

Phone: (301) 286-8588Fax: (301) 286-0230

[email protected]

Website: http//childcare.gsfc.nasa.gov

www.facebook.com/NASA.GCDC

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Goddard Child Development Center (GCDC), Inc.

Approved by the Board of DirectorsBetsy Park,

President

Dan Duffy,Vice President

Marcianna DelaneyTreasurer

Nancy Jones,Secretary

Kevin Mulcahy,Registrar

Austin ConatyMember At Large

April 2011

Table of ContentsApproved by the Board of Directors ................................................................. iiAbout Our School ............................................................................................1

Code of Conduct........................................................................................................ 1Licensing ................................................................................................................... 1Non-Discrimination Policy .......................................................................................... 2Open Door Policy....................................................................................................... 2Program Philosophy .................................................................................................. 2The Board of Directors and GCDC Director............................................................... 2

Attendance ......................................................................................................3Hours of Operation .................................................................................................... 3Unplanned Closures .................................................................................................. 3Early Dismissal .......................................................................................................... 3Arrivals and Departures ............................................................................................. 3Government Shutdown .............................................................................................. 5Release of Children ................................................................................................... 5

Curriculum and Assessment ............................................................................6Toddlers and Pre-Kindergarten Curriculum ............................................................... 6Assessment ............................................................................................................... 7Kindergarten Curriculum & Assessment .................................................................... 7Developmental Delays............................................................................................... 7

Financial Matters .............................................................................................8Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) ......................................................................... 8Deposit ...................................................................................................................... 8Donations................................................................................................................... 8Flex Spending Accounts ............................................................................................ 8Fundraising................................................................................................................ 9GCDC Activity Fees................................................................................................... 9Late Payments........................................................................................................... 9Late Pick Up Fees ..................................................................................................... 9Returned Checks ..................................................................................................... 10Scholarships ............................................................................................................ 10Termination of Contract ........................................................................................... 10Tuition...................................................................................................................... 10

Food and Nutrition .........................................................................................11Allergies................................................................................................................... 11Choking Hazards ..................................................................................................... 11Dietary Restrictions.................................................................................................. 11Meal Patterns........................................................................................................... 11Lunch....................................................................................................................... 12

Snacks..................................................................................................................... 13Modified Diets .......................................................................................................... 13Special Occasions ................................................................................................... 13Lunch Dates............................................................................................................. 13

Health Policies...............................................................................................14Child Abuse Reporting............................................................................................. 14Communicable Diseases ......................................................................................... 14Emergency Medical Treatment Authorization .......................................................... 14Hand Washing ......................................................................................................... 14Health Inventory....................................................................................................... 15Immunizations.......................................................................................................... 15Medications.............................................................................................................. 15Pediatric First Aid/CPR ............................................................................................ 15Sick Children............................................................................................................ 15Sunscreen................................................................................................................ 15Temperature ............................................................................................................ 16

Kindergarten Policies.....................................................................................17Attendance Policy for Kindergarten ......................................................................... 17Early Departures...................................................................................................... 18Eligibility for Kindergarten ........................................................................................ 18Kindergarten Curriculum.......................................................................................... 18Make Up Work ......................................................................................................... 18Official School Days and Attendance....................................................................... 18Tardy Policy ............................................................................................................. 19Truancy.................................................................................................................... 19

Parent Involvement........................................................................................20Communication........................................................................................................ 20Facebook................................................................................................................. 21GCDC Electronic Mailing List................................................................................... 21Parental Input .......................................................................................................... 22Volunteerism............................................................................................................ 22

GCDC Policies...............................................................................................24Child Ratios ............................................................................................................. 25Confidentiality .......................................................................................................... 25Conflict Resolution................................................................................................... 25Dress ....................................................................................................................... 25Guidance and Discipline .......................................................................................... 26Challenging Behavior............................................................................................... 26Field Trip Policy ....................................................................................................... 26Lost and Found........................................................................................................ 26Materials Needed for School.................................................................................... 27

Nap Policy................................................................................................................ 27Outdoor Play............................................................................................................ 28Potty Training........................................................................................................... 28Toys from Home ...................................................................................................... 29Transitions ............................................................................................................... 29

Safety and Security........................................................................................30Emergency Evacuations .......................................................................................... 30Fire Drills.................................................................................................................. 30Lockdown Procedures ............................................................................................. 30Security/Key Card Access ....................................................................................... 30

G C D C P A R E N T H A N D B O O K

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About Our SchoolThe Goddard Child Development Center, Inc., (GCDC) opened its doors in June of 1973, committed to the purpose of combining quality child care with excellence in early childhood education.

GCDC is a nonprofit, tax exempt entity. Located in Building 90 on the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) campus, GCDC can support 123 children. GCDC is a certified private school through the Maryland State Department of Education. Currently, GCDC offers one kindergarten classroom, two pre-kindergarten classrooms, three 3-4 year old preschool classrooms and two 2-year old classrooms.

Each classroom has a lead teacher with one the following qualifications: A bachelor’s degree from an Institution of Higher Education (IHE); 120 semester hours of college credit from an IHE; or a foreign credential that is determined to be equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an IHE.

Each classroom has at least one assistant teacher who is over the age of 18 with a minimum of the 90-hour childcare certification and a high school diploma or one associate teacher who has at least a Child Development Associate (CDA).

Code of ConductGCDC is committed to facilitating healthy behaviors through appropriate child supervision and strong parent engagement. We recognize the importance of families in our program and strive to maintain an environment that is safe and respectful for all its members. GCDC staff adheres to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)Code of Ethical Conduct. Expectations are that staff will model appropriate behavior and facilitate appropriate children’s behavior. All children, staff, and family members will speak to and interact with each other in a respectful, appropriate and acceptable manner. Physical or verbal abuse will not be tolerated.

LicensingGCDC is licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) as a Nonpublic Nursery School. We are an educational program for children ages 2-4 years of age. We are certified by MSDE as a private school to include a Kindergarten program.

Chapter

T H I S S E C T I O N

Code of Conduct

Licensing

Non-Discrimination

Policy

Open Door Policy

Program Philosophy

The Board and GCDC

Director

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Non-Discrimination PolicyGCDC is operated on a non-discriminatory basis, according equal treatment and access to services without regard to race, national origin, color, creed, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or associational preference. Persons with disabilities are accorded equal treatment and access to services as long as the program can meet the needs of the child and the parent/family.

Open Door PolicyParents are welcome to visit their child’s classroom anytime. Please feel free to come by for lunch or snack. If your child has trouble with these transitions, we will help and let you know.

Program Philosophy

It is the philosophy of GCDC to meet children’s developmental and individual needs and tocreate a stimulating environment in which children:

Learn through exploration and discovery; Feel safe, comfortable and have a sense of belonging; Learn and develop social-emotional skills through interaction with their classmates

and teachers.

As a result, children become more independent and confident learners.

GCDC provides a variety of intellectual experiences through participation in language arts, social studies, science, mathematics, music, art, creative dramatic play, sensory play, and physical development.

Acting as facilitators in children’s learning, GCDC teachers provide support, encouragement, and individual attention to promote each child’s strengths anddevelopment.

The Board of Directors and GCDC DirectorGCDC is governed by a Board of Directors, which works together with the GCDC Director for overall operation of the program. The Board consists of members elected by the general membership in the annual meeting. It sets the strategic directions and overarching policies for the Center and hires the Director. The Director is a child-care professional employed by GCDC who manages the program, determines the appropriate curriculum, hires the staff, maintains the GCDC waiting list, and administers the GCDC admissions policy.

Each month, the Board of Directors and the GCDC Director meet to review status and make decisions relevant to the overall operation of the Center. Each meeting begins with a ten minute open forum during which any member can raise issues or ask questions of the Board. After the open forum, the meeting becomes closed to the general membership.


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AttendanceStudents who attend school regularly learn more and are more successful in school than students who do not. Parents who make regular school attendance a priority help their children learn to accept responsibility. Attendance patterns are formed early in life. Children who develop good attendance habits in the early grades will be more likely to continue them throughout their school career. That’s important, because students who miss school miss out on carefully planned sequences of instruction. They forego active learning experiences and class participation and the opportunity to ask questions. They are more likely to fall behind and eventually drop out of school.

Hours of OperationGCDC hours of operation are 7:15 AM through 5:30 PM,Monday through Friday. Our program day is divided into three primary sections: 7:15 AM-9:00 AM before care, 9:00 AM-3:30 PM full school day, and 3:30 PM-5:30 PMafter care. The schedule allows for a balance between teacher-led and child-initiated activities, quiet and active play, and indoor and outdoor activities.

GCDC is closed on all federal holidays and all other times that GSFC is closed. Parents should refer to the school calendar for other GCDC closing dates, such as Staff Development Days.

Unplanned ClosuresIn the event of inclement weather, disaster, evacuations or special events, GCDC follows the leave policy of GSFC. To determine the GSFC's status, call 301-286-NEWS (301-286-6397). GCDC’s corresponding hours to GSFC’s operation status codes are as follows:

CODE GREEN or BLUE: GCDC opens as usual CODE YELLOW: GCDC opens 15 minutes after the opening of GSFC. CODE RED: GCDC is closed

Early DismissalGCDC will close one-half hour after the closing time of the GSFC. For example, if GSFC closes at 3:00 PM, children must be picked up no later than 3:30 PM. When early closures are anticipated, it is the parents’ responsibility to monitor GSFC closuresannouncements. Parents should always keep all contact information current.

Arrivals and DeparturesChildren thrive in a well-ordered and predictable environment where daily routines, such as arrivals and departures, mealtimes, nap times, and toileting are dealt with consistently. The following polices help to preserve your child’s daily routine.

Chapter


Hours of Operation

Arrivals & Departures

Attendance Policy

Release of Children


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Parents are asked to call GCDC before 9:00 AM the day of the absence to notify their child’s teacher of the impending absence.

ArrivalDesignated parking spaces are provided in front of GCDC. These spaces have a thirty-minute limit to ensure enough space is available for all parents. When parking at GCDC, all engines must be turned off and no children may be left in a vehicle unattended.

All parents must enter the building by scanning their GSFC badge over the badge reader outside the main entrance. If both parents are dropping off, both parents must scan their badge. This is a GSFC requirement and is used to monitor access to our secured facility. Parents with temporary badges should ring the doorbell and sign into the GCDC visitor’s loge until a permanent badge is issued.

Parents should take their child(ren) to their assigned classroom to deposit personal belongings. Lunchboxes and bags should be placed in the appropriate bin in the kitchen refrigerator. For more information on lunches, please see the food and nutrition chapter of this text.

Parents should then take the child(ren) to the area where children are being supervised. This may be another classroom or the playground. If the drop off point is in a classroom, parents should assist their child(ren) with hand washing and applyingsunscreen. If parents are visiting the classroom beyond just dropping off, parents should wash their hands as well. Parents must be certain that a staff member sees and acknowledges the child before leaving.

Each parent is required to log their child into the GCDC attendance system every day using the computer in the atrium. If children are being dropped off by an emergency contact, parents should notify the office. Since only parents and GCDC administrators are permitted to log children into the attendance system, GCDC administrative personnel will help emergency contacts in doing so.

Departure Children must remain in the classroom until parents come to the classroom to get them. A distinct “turning over of responsibility” is necessary. Parents should ensure that a staff member sees and acknowledges them before leaving with their child. We ask that parents not allow children to leave the classroom ahead of them.Unsupervised children in the hallway or atrium can lead to accidents, injury or running out the frequently opening doors. Please help us to keep your child safe and maintain supervision requirements.

Because of the rubberized surfacing used on GCDC playgrounds, parents should not walk on playground surfacing while wearing high heels. Doing causes punctures to the surfaces. Parents wearing high heels should ask a GCDC member to help secure their child from the playground.

Smooth and relaxed transitions at arrival and departure preserve a calm classroom atmosphere. Transition times are important time for everyone: parents want to share information with staff or learn about their child’s day and teachers and children are actively involved in the classrooms. We value the importance of communication between


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parents and staff; however, staff may not be available for long due to their responsibilities to the classroom and other children. If you need more than a few minutesto talk to your child’s teacher, please call us or email the administrative staff. If the administrative staff can assist you, please stop by the front office.

Government ShutdownA government shutdown occurs when the Congress does not continue to appropriate funding to operate the federal government. Federal civil servants and support contractors may be “excepted” from a furlough by law because they are performing work essential to prevent imminent threats to human life or the protection of property. In GSFC closes response to a federal government shutdown, GCDC will be closed to personnel not designated as excepted. GCDC may have partial openings to accommodate children of excepted personnel as approved by GSFC.

GCDC parents are still responsible for any tuition due during a government shutdown since we are a non-appropriated fund activity. Our program is fully funded by parent tuition, and the GCDC requires payments of its patrons to operate, maintain staffing, and pay any debts owed. If GSFC civil servant /contractor pay is delayed during the shutdown, parents should contact the GCDC business manager to arrange a payment plan to bring all accounts current as soon as pay is resumed.

If the shutdown is less than 2-weeks, then parents are expected to pay and the teachers are expected to work. If the shutdown lasts longer than 2-weeks, then the Board of Directors will reassess this policy and provide further guidance.

In the event the GCDC is not able to use government-funded communication (e.g. listservs, phones, etc), GCDC patrons and employees can find current information via the GCDC Facebook page.

Release of Children If someone other than a parent (or person designated on the emergency card) will be picking up a child, GCDC must be notified in writing. Phone calls are acceptable only in emergency situations.

Emergency contacts must sign the Visitor’s Log Book located in the atrium and proceed to the office. GCDC administrators will check the person’s identification and compare it to the emergency contacts listed in the child’s file. It is prohibited to share a GCDC attendance system log-in/log-out codes with anyone.

Children will not be released to anyone under the age of sixteen. We will not release children to parents if we suspect they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.


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Curriculum and AssessmentChildren begin learning the moment they are born. This is why access to high-quality early childhood programs is so important. For young children, everything is a learning experience. Exposing your child to a wide variety of positive experiences leads to lifelong learning. At GCDC, we use age appropriate activities, such as reading books; playing games; listening to music; dancing; and visiting museums, parks, and playgrounds as the foundation to our teaching.

Parents can help reinforce the GCDC curriculum and reinforce learning at home. An online series called Parent Tips has information about how parents can help extend children’s learning at home (ReadyatFive.org). The series was developed in partnership with MSDE.

Toddlers and Pre-Kindergarten CurriculumThe most important goals of our preschool curriculum are for children to get along well with others and become enthusiastic learners. We want children to become independent, self-confident, curious, life-long learners who can work well with others. We achieve these goals by creating purposeful and productive play experiences that help children grow in all areas.

GCDC uses The Creative Curriculum in our toddler and pre-kindergarten classrooms. This is a research-based curriculum that defines goals in four areas of development.

Social/emotional: to help children develop independence, self-confidence, and self-control, follow rules and routines, make friends, and learn what it means to be part of a group.

Physical: to increase children’s large muscle skills, such as balancing, running, jumping, throwing, and catching and using small muscles in their hands to do tasks like buttoning, stringing beads, cutting, drawing, and writing.

Cognitive: to acquire thinking skills, such as the ability to solve problems, to ask questions, and to think logically (sorting, classifying, comparing, counting, and making patterns and to use materials and their imagination to show what they have learned).

Language: to use words to communicate with others, listen to and participate in conversations with others, understand the purpose of print, recognize letters and words, and begin writing for a purpose.

We accomplish our goals through the activities planned, thoughtful classroom arrangements, age appropriate selections of toys and materials, established routines, and interactions with children.

Chapter


Toddler/Pre-K

Curriculum

Assessment

Developmental

Delays


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For more information about The Creative Curriculum, see the booklet A Parent’s Guide to Preschool – Creative Curriculum. It is available at parent information table in the GCDCatrium.

AssessmentAssessment is the planned and systematic process of observing, recording, and documenting what children do and how they do it. Teachers then analyze the information as a basis for a variety of educational decisions that affect the child, including determining the child’s interests and needs. Informal assessments occur every day through observation and work sampling.

Formal assessments are completed by using the Creative Curriculum Continuum twice per school year. The Creative Curriculum® Developmental Continuum is a valid and reliable assessment tool designed to be used in programs using The Creative Curriculum. It is an observation-based infant, toddler and preschool assessment tool. The assessment spans across four developmental domains: social-emotional, physical, cognitive, and language. There is a strong teacher-parent partnership with observational recording. Results of assessments are formally shared with families during parent-teacher conferences.

The results of assessments are used to adapt and improve the curriculum, as well as to develop specific teaching approaches and practices and instructional strategies to meet the individual needs of the children. The results are also used to provide the optimal learning environment and to inform and assess overall program development and improvement. Assessment may also be used to arrange for developmental screening and referral for diagnostic assessment for a child when indicated.

Each child has his or her own portfolio that includes the results of formal and informal assessments, photos, work samples, and family partnership correspondence.

The results of the assessment are confidential. Information is shared only with those who have a right or a need to know (e.g., the child’s parents, school administration, and thechild’s teachers). The assessment will be shared with specialists only with the parents’ written permission.

Kindergarten Curriculum & AssessmentFor information about the GCDC Kindergarten Curriculum, see the Kindergarten chapter of this handbook.

Developmental DelaysParents that suspect developmental delays should contact the Prince George’s County Early Intervention Services for Infants and Toddlers (Birth to 3 year olds) at 301-265-8415 or see the MSDE’s resource webpage for the statewide program at http://www.marylandpublicschools.org/MSDE/divisions/earlyinterv/infant_toddlers/about/message.htm.


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Financial MattersGCDC is a small institution that operates on a tight budget mainly derived from tuition payments. It is extremely difficult to operate the school in a fiscally responsible manner if tuition payments are not made promptly when due. Timely payment allows GCDC to offer high-quality services, materials and supplies, and well-trained and education staff.

Combined Federal Campaign (CFC)CFC is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign, with more than 200 CFC campaigns throughout the country and internationally to help to raise millions of dollars each year. Pledges made by Federal civilian, postal, and military donors during the campaign season (September 1 to December 15) support eligible non-profit organizations that provide health and human service benefits throughout the world. GCDC participates in the CFC program to support our scholarship fund. Please consider us when making your charitable contribution elections. We are listed as Goddard Child Development Center.

DepositParents are required to pay a deposit in the amount of two weeks’tuition per child due at the time of enrollment. This deposit must be paid within two business days of accepting a space. GCDC will credit this deposit to the family’s account when a two-week withdrawal notice is provided, as long as the family’s account is in

good standing.

DonationsGCDC relies on the generosity of parents, grandparents, and friends to support an array of needs at each Center. Not all contributions need to be financial. Support can take many forms, from volunteering to handling tasks at the Center.

You can volunteer to help clean the Center on clean-up days and volunteer professional services, such as marketing and communication services, business expertise and a variety of other services. Some donations may be tax deductible. Please see our Business Manager for a receipt for financial and material donations.

Flex Spending AccountsSome employers offer flex spending accounts as a benefit to its employees. It allows employees to contribute money from their salary before taxes are withheld, and then get reimbursed for out-of-pocket dependent care expenses. The GCDC Business Manager can support flex spending claims by providing tuition statements and signing required forms.

Chapter


CFC

Deposit

Donations

Flex Spending Accounts

Fundraising

GCDC Activity Fee

Late Payments

Late Pick Up Fees

Return Checks

Scholarships

Termination of Contract

Tuition


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FundraisingAs in most independent schools, tuition alone does not fully cover the cost of operating our school. GCDC has a variety of fundraising programs intended to bridge the gap between what tuition and fees cover and the funding that is necessary to fulfill the mission and vision of GCDC. Parent support of these fundraisers is critical in GCDC success.

GCDC Activity FeesParents are required to pay an annual activity fee. This fee is intended to offset field trip costs. Activity fees are paid at the beginning of the school year and is calculated based upon the cost of scheduled field trips for the year.

Late PaymentsTuition is payable on Monday of each week and is considered late by close of business Wednesday of the same week. Notice of late payment will be distributed by the end of the week. Any child whose tuition is not paid within one week of the due date is subject to dismissal from the Center.

If you believe you have been given a late payment notice in error or are unable to make your payment in a timely manner, please contact the GCDC Business Manager to discuss this matter. In cases of financial hardship, contact the Director immediately so that s/he can bring it to the attention of the Board to discuss possible payment alternatives or solutions.

Late Pick Up FeesGCDC and the Board of Directors have instituted a policy requiring all parents and children to vacate Building 90 no later than 5:30 PM. Parents who fail to comply shall pay a late pick-up fee. There is no grace period.

Each late pick-up is considered an event. The first time you pick up your child after 5:30PM will result in a late fee of $10.00 for every 15 minutes you are late. The second event will result in a $15.00 charge for every 15 minutes you are late and so on.

Your late pick-up record is not wiped clean at the beginning of the school year. The events/late pick-ups continue to accumulate for 365 days from the date of your first event. Events older than 365 days are not used to calculate the number of events (late pick-ups) you accumulate.

Example

Your first late pick-up event occurred on January 30, 2010 when you picked up your child at 5:35pm. You are charged a $10 late fee. Your second event occurs on March 11, 2010 when you picked up your child 20 minutes late. You are charged a $30 late fee. On January 31, 2011, you are late again. Your child is not is not picked up until 5:45pm. Your fee will be $15 because this event happened more than 365 days since the first event.

Late fees are assessed on a membership basis, not on a per child basis. A member who is late picking up their children translates into one late pick-up event no matter how many children are being picked up.


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Parents are also required to sign the Late Pick-up Book. The GCDC Business Manager will bill accounts accordingly. Late fees must be paid no later than the following business day.

Returned ChecksPersonal checks returned to GCDC for reasons of insufficient funds or otherwise will be brought to the attention of the GCDC Business Manager. The Business Manager will then notify the check writer and bill the member’s account a returned check fee equal to the amount that the bank charges GCDC.

ScholarshipsA limited number of need-based scholarships are available to qualified families. These scholarships are granted based upon salary guidelines and available funds.

Termination of ContractParents who are withdrawing their child from GCDC must submit a Withdrawal Form twoweeks prior to the child’s withdrawal from GCDC. Withdrawal dates must be on a Friday. Withdrawal forms must be given to a member of the GCDC Administration. Once received, the advance tuition deposit will be used to pay the child’s final two weeks of enrollment at GCDC. Parents are responsible for any outstanding balances prior to theirchild’s withdrawal.

GCDC may terminate the child’s enrollment by issuing a written notice to the parents, ifat any time GCDC deems a child’s health or pattern of conduct adversely affects the children, staff and/or the efforts, efficiency and mission of GCDC or if parents fail to meet their financial obligations of the Center.

TuitionTuition is due on the first day of the school week. Tuition should be paid on a weekly basis unless other arrangements have been made to pay tuition on a bi-weekly or monthly schedule. Parents who choose to pay on a bi-weekly or monthly schedule are expected to pay in advance. Parents are responsible for tuition each week their child is officially enrolled in the Center, regardless of whether the child has been in attendance.

Classroom Assignment Tuition Rates

Comets, Little Discoveries (2 Year Olds) $221.00

Constellations, Little Dippers, Milky Ways, Rockets, Satellites, Shooting Stars (preschool through Kindergarten)

$184.00

Parents who pay by check or money order should place their checks/money orders in themailbox outside of the Administrative Office. Parents also have the option of having their funds automatically withdrawn from their accounts on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Please contact the Business Manager if you are interested in paying your tuition via an automatic funds withdrawal. Also, you may have payments made to the Goddard Child Development Center directly from your financial institution. Again, these payments must be made in advance.


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Food and NutritionIt is our goal to ensure children’s nutritional well-being. The GCDC provides a morning and afternoon snack along with milk and/or juice to the children. Parents are responsible for providing lunch each day for their child. Food prepared, served, and stored at GCDC is done so in accordance with United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines, Maryland licensing, and NAEYC accreditation standards for food and nutrition.

AllergiesGCDC works with families and their child’s physician to create an allergy action plan that ensures everyone at GCDC has knowledge of the child’s allergies, typical reactions, and plans for action in the event of an allergic reaction. It is the parents’responsibility to alert the administration and the child’s teacher of any allergies. In addition, allergies must be documented on your child’s Emergency Card/Health forms. If your child has food allergies, please also fill out the Food Allergy Action Plan to be posted in the child’s classroom and the kitchen. Submit the original Plan to your child’s teacher and a copy to the administration. Forms are available in the Administrative Office. Parents must provide substitutions for any snacks that children cannot consume at GCDC.

Choking HazardsGCDC Staff may not offer children younger than four years of age the following foods: hot dogs, whole or sliced into rounds; whole grapes; nuts; popcorn; raw peas; hard pretzels; spoonfuls of peanut butter; chunks of raw carrots or meat larger than can be swallowed whole. Food served at GCDC must be cut into pieces not larger than ½ - inch square for toddlers/two’s, according to each child’s chewing and swallowing capability. This includes foods prepared at home and included in a child’s lunch.

Dietary RestrictionsThe center will honor documented dietary restrictions. It is the parent’s responsibility to document the foods that your child cannot have on a weekly menu and provide an appropriate food substitute when there is an item that your child cannot have.

Meal PatternsAll meals served at GCDC must comply with the USDA’s CACFP guidelines and established meal patterns. This includes meals brought from home. A meal pattern is the set of food components, food items and minimum quantities required for a breakfast, supplement (snack), or lunch or supper for a specific age group of children. Meal patterns are designed to help adults plan well-balanced, nutritious meals and snacks for

Chapter


Allergies

Choking

Hazards

Dietary

Restrictions

Meal Patterns

Modified Diets

Special

Occasions


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children. Meals and snacks planned with the CACFP meal pattern supply the kinds and amounts of foods that children require to help meet their nutrient and energy needs.

Lunches must include milk, meat or meat alternate, grains/breads and two fruits/vegetables. The meal patterns specify minimum portion sizes for each meal component. Parents may serve more of each meal component, but to meet CACFP requirements, parents must serve at least the minimum. Older children will need larger servings to satisfy their hunger and to get all the nutrients they need. Use the meal pattern chart below to help plan meals and snacks that include the right food components. Parents should keep this chart in a convenient location and refer to it when preparing your child’s lunch.

Meal Components 2 years 3-5 years 6-12 years

Milk ½ Cup ¾ Cup 1 Cup

Meat or Meat Alternative: Meat, poultry, or fish (cooked, lean meat without bone) 1 oz 1 ½ oz 2 oz

Cheese ½ oz ½ oz 1 oz

Egg (large) ½ ¾ 1

Cooked dry beans or peas ¼ cup 3/8 cup ½ cup

Peanut butter or peas 2 Tbsp 3 Tbsp 4 Tbsp

Nuts and/or seeds ½ oz ¾ oz 1 oz

Yogurt, plain or sweetened 4 oz 6 oz 8 oz

Vegetable or Fruit or Juice ½ cup ½ cup ¾ cup

Grains or Breads

Bread, enriched or whole-grain

Cooked cereal , enriched or whole grain

Cooked pasta or noodle products

½ slice

¼ cup

¼ cup

½ slice

¼ cup

¼ cup

1 slice

½ cup

½ cup

LunchStaff must take steps to ensure the safety of all food served at GCDC. This includes food brought from home. All food served must meet NAEYC standards of ensuring children’s nutritional well being.

Each child should bring his/her lunch daily, carried in a lunch box/bag. Each item should be marked with the child’s first, last name and date. The Center provides milk, so you need not pack a beverage. Please do not send chewing gum or candy. Be aware that chocolate-coated fruits, most fruit snacks, and marshmallows are classified as candy.

Per our licensing requirements, the GCDC parent handbook, and the NAEYC accreditation standards, it is essential that we maintain compliance at all times to ensure quality within the GCDC and to promote health, safety and nutrition. When children’s lunches do not meet the USDA-CACFP requirements, staff will provide a supplemental replacement. This


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can become a major expense for the Center; therefore, a note will be sent home to parents notifying them of noncompliant meals. With the third occurrence in a school year, the Director will be notified and you will be called to come and pick your child up for lunch or bring an appropriate lunch.

The Maryland Department of Human Resources requires that perishable items in your child’s lunch be refrigerated. There are bins for all classes located in the refrigerator in the food preparation area of each wing. Please label the items with your child’s name and date, and then place your items in the designated bin. Staff and parents must work together to ensure that food requiring refrigeration stays cold until served. We do not have facilities for warming lunches. Thermoses may be used to keep food warm.

SnacksTwo snacks are provided daily. Morning snacks are served between 9:00 AM-9:30 AM. Afternoon snacks are served between 3:00 PM-3:30 PM. These snacks are nutritious and varied. Monthly snack menus are placed in each child’s mailbox and posted on the GCDC bulletin boards. Additionally, the snack menus can be found on the GCDC website, as well as on the parent information table.

Please be advised that it is the parent’s responsibility to provide a supplemental snack when the child has allergies or other special dietary concerns that prevent them from eating the snack being served.

Modified DietsAny child requiring a modified diet for medical reasons must be stated on the Emergency Form and Health Inventory. Any changes throughout the school year must be documented on the Emergency Form and brought to the teacher’s attention as soon as possible.

Special OccasionsMany parents wish to acknowledge and celebrate their child’s birthday or other special occasions at GCDC. Typically this is done during the afternoon snack time. A celebration can be arranged by communicating with your child’s teacher at least two weeks in advance. A cake, cupcakes or ice-cream is appropriate.

Due to our need to comply with state licensing requirements, USDA guidelines, and consideration of various allergies in the Center, all baked goods brought in to share with your child’s classmates must be store bought. Any homemade items brought into GCDC will be sent home. Parents should also check with teachers to learn about any children in the classroom with allergies or special dietary needs.

Birthday plates and napkins are fine; however, please do not bring party favors, balloons or candy. This is not a substitute for a home/family birthday party, but a time to recognize an individual child’s rite-of-passage.

Invitations to home parties may be placed in student mailboxes only if every child in the classroom is included.

Lunch Dates

Parents may join their child for any meals. Parents may take their children out of the center for lunch; however, the child must return to th center at least ten minutes prior to the beginning of rest time. Parents should remember to sign their child in and out for any time away from the center.


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Health PoliciesOur goal at GCDC is to maintain a healthful environment where children and staff can thrive. Together, as staff and families, it is our responsibility to ensure that we are protecting children’s health and controlling the spread of infectious illness.

Child Abuse ReportingAccording to Maryland law, all GCDC staff members are mandated reporters. Persons found guilty of failure to report suspected abuse are subject to a fine and possible jail time. Abuse is defined as thephysical or emotional injury of a child by any parent or other person who has permanent or temporary care or custody or responsibility for the supervision of a child, or by any household or family member, under circumstances that indicate the child’s health or welfare significantly harmed or at risk of being significantly harmed.

Communicable DiseasesThe Child Care Administration requires staff and parents to inform GCDC if their child or staff member is infected with or had been exposed to a reportable communicable disease (e.g., conjunctivitis, chickenpox, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, strep throat, ring worm, etc.). GCDC cannot admit a child with a communicable disease during the period of communicability. Readmission to GCDC requires a written note by a licensed health practitioner, such as the child’s pediatrician.

When a child/staff member is diagnosed as having a contagious illness, the child/staff member must be excluded from GCDC for 24 hours after antibiotics have begun. Other symptoms of illness, which require exclusion from GCDC, include a change in bowel habits (i.e., loose stool that occur more than twice or with other symptoms), vomiting, undiagnosed rashes, and cold symptoms that do not subside. A doctor’s note indicating that the child is not contagious will be needed if the diagnosis is contagious and symptoms persist.

Emergency Medical Treatment AuthorizationParents are required to submit a notarized emergency medical treatment authorization form upon enrollment.

Hand WashingUnwashed hands are the primary carriers of bacteria and germs that cause illness. GCDC policy requires children and staff to wash their hands upon arrival, after using the toilet,

Chapter


Child Abuse Reporting Communicable Disease Emergency Medical

Treatment Hand Washing Health Inventory Immunizations Medications Pediatric First Aid & CPR Sick Children Sunscreen Temperature


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before eating, and when soiled. We ask that parents assist their child(ren) in hand washing after signing their child in.

Health Inventory Parents are required to submit a MSDE Health Inventory form upon enrollment for each child enrolled. This form must be updated annually and as immunizations are administered.

ImmunizationsAll children must have documentation of age-appropriate immunizations as defined by MSDE, supporting evidence for cases in which a child is under-immunized because of a medical condition (documented by a licensed health professional) or the family’s beliefs toenroll and participate in GCDC programs.

MedicationsGCDC staff will administer emergency medication only (inhaler/epi-pen). Emergency medication stored at the GCDC must have the original prescription taped on the medication.

Code of Maryland Regulation) 13A.16.11.04 requires persons who administer medications in public and nonpublic schools to be trained and certified by the Maryland Board of Nursing as Certified Nursing Assistants. Parents must administer any required maintenance or over the counter medication when needed. Refrigerated medicines may be stored in our locked box in the upper level refrigerator.

Pediatric First Aid/CPRAll GCDC staff participates in annual training and hold certification in pedantic first aid and CPR.

Sick ChildrenChild Care Administration licensing regulations do not permit sick children to be brought to the Center or remain after it is discovered that they are ill. When parents are notified that their child is ill, they are expected to pick up their child within one hour. If theparent/guardian cannot be reached in a timely manner, Administration will make the decision whether or not to contact the emergency contact. Therefore, it is important that emergency forms be current at all times. Please stop by the office to change your child’s form when needed. Our policies have been established for the health and safety of your child as well as the staff and the other children. Please do not ask staff to make exceptions.

If parents have shown negligence regarding the health of a child, the Director will have specific authority to determine whether the health of a child is suitable for attendance at GCDC. His/her opinion will take priority over that of a parent. If the Director deems a child too ill to be in attendance or that a child might infect other children, then the parent shall promptly make other arrangements for the care of the child.

SunscreenParents are asked to apply sunscreen to their child(ren) in the morning before bringing them to school in the summer/spring. Sunscreen may be reapplied to your child at GCDC by staff if the appropriate Medication Order Form for your child is on file. (Note: Most sunscreens need to be applied at least a half hour before going outside to be immediately effective.)


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TemperatureIf a child has a temperature of 100 degrees or greater, the parent will be called to pick up the child. GCDC will use an auxiliary temperature (under arm) that requires adding one degree to the reading. When a child is sent home with a fever of 100 degrees or greater, the child may not return to GCDC until 24 hours after the fever has broken without the use of medication. For example, if your child goes home on Wednesday with a temperature, we do not expect to see him/her before Friday.

Parents are encouraged to notify GCDC if their child becomes acutely ill so that we can notify other families of the illness and take steps to try to limit the risk of further infection.


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Kindergarten PoliciesKindergarten children enter school with varied experiences and expectations. Five year olds are discovering the world around them and are anxious to explore it. The development of a kindergartner’s positive self-image as well as his/her good feelings about school is paramount. Our kindergarten environment nurtures the child and encourages exploration and learning.

Through a balance of play and academics, the children develop the skills necessary to become constructive members of the school community. The primary function of the kindergarten program is to provide your child with a positive and successful learning experience in his/her first formal school year. A major goal of the kindergarten educator is to keep the child’s needs as the central motivation for lessons.

The kindergarten curriculum provides the building blocks to help young children develop into lifelong learners. Your child’s first year in school is a new experience for parent andchild alike. There are many things that a child will learn to do that will be the cornerstone of his/her education.

Attendance Policy for KindergartenMaryland law requires that all students between the ages of 5-16 attend school regularly. Absence from school is disruptive to the learning process. Studies have shown that students who attend school on a regular basis earn better grades than those who are frequently absent.

MSDE recognizes the following as lawful (excused) absences from school: death in the immediate family illness of the student quarantine court summons principal/director-approved activity mental or physical incapacity violent storms observance of a religious holiday state of emergency

Parents are asked to call GCDC before 9:00 AM the day of the absence to notify theirchild’s teacher of the impending absence. Upon return to school, parents must provide a note stating the date(s) and reason(s) for the absence to the teacher.

Chapter


Attendance Policy Early Departures Kindergarten Curriculum Make Up Work Official School Days Tardy Policy Truancy


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If a note is not submitted within three school days, the absence will become unexcused.

Early DeparturesA note from the parents is required for an early departure. The note must be given to the classroom teacher upon arrival so it can be noted on the daily attendance sheet. Students must be picked up by their parent or guardian. Please refer to the Releasing Children section of this Handbook when someone other than a parent is picking up a child.

Eligibility for KindergartenChildren must be five years of age by September 1st of the school year to enroll in kindergarten. GCDC allows Early admission to kindergarten for children whose birthday falls between September 2nd and October 15th, inclusive. Parents seeking early admission for their child must Complete the Early Admissions Screening Process. You will need to contact your local public school and request a screening that meetings the MSDE requirements for early admissions. GCDC requires an official letter from a school district that indicates the child passed the screening. Note: We cannot guarantee a space for credit without this documentation.

When space is available, parents may also enroll non age eligible children in the GCDC Kindergarten program for non-credit. This will not meet the mandatory kindergarten attendance requirement to attend a public or nonpublic kindergarten program regularly during the school year before entering the first grade. In other words, your child would have to repeat kindergarten before enrolling in first grade.

Kindergarten CurriculumThe State Curriculum (SC) provides clear and detailed information about what Maryland students should know and be able to do at each grade level. All of Maryland’s 24 local school systems have included the SC as part of their curriculum. This curriculum requirement applies specifically to our kindergarten program.

GCDC uses the MacMilliam/McGraw-Hill (Treasures, 2011 edition) curriculum for our Kindergarten program, which is an MSDE recommended curriculum and meets all the requirements of the SC guidelines.

Make Up WorkA student with an excused absence is permitted one day for each day of absence to make up his/her work. It is the family’s responsibility to request missed work from teachers the day they return to school. Parents may request assignments for students absent from school for extended periods of time (3 days or more). To do so, please contact the Lead Teacher.

Official School Days and AttendanceSchools accredited or certified by the MSDE are required to establish a calendar of official school days. This calendar must have a minimum of 170 days. The GCDC official school year typically begins the week before Labor Day and ends in mid-June. Our calendar plans for additional curriculum days, assuming GSFC does not close for snow or other reasons.


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Days such as Yom Kippur, spring break, and the week of Christmas through New Year’s Day are considered non-curriculum days. The Center will be open on a holiday schedule on these days; however, no new concepts will be introduced and no projects, which would require your child’s presence, will be started on these days.

Tardy PolicyThe GCDC Kindergarten Tardy Policy has been developed to emphasize the importance of each student being in the classroom for the entire period, as well as arriving on time each day. Learning the responsibility of getting to class on time is an integral part of MSDE’s standard of excellence and prepares students for success. In our school, instructional time is viewed as a precious resource. Consequently, we view chronic tardiness as a serious problem, particularly for the kindergarten class. Parents will receive notice after each tardy incident. If the problem continues, additional consequences will be imposed.

Please Note:

Three tardy notices will result in your child being marked as having 1 unexcused absence. Four or more tardy notices may result in the failure of a class.

TruancyFor our kindergarten class, any absence from school for reasons other than those listed previously is considered unlawful. Excessive unexcused absences are defined as more than three absences in a semester or more than 10 absences in a school year. Excessive absences may result in failing grades. In addition, students with excessive absences may be withdrawn from the program.


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Parent InvolvementWe firmly believe that families play an integral role in their child’s learning and development. We value your participation in our program and rely on your shared input on the growth and development of your child as well as continuous communication and feedback with GCDC to ensure that your families’ needs are being met.

GCDC provides many opportunities for parents to receive information on the progress of their child, details on other general activities and ways parents may become involved in activities at GCDC. Examples of the types of communication you should expect are:

Back to School NightGood first impressions make a difference, and the first open house of the school year gives teachers a chance to gain parents' support. It also allows teachers an opportunity to create a personal connection with parents and establish ways for continued communication throughout the school year. Teachers provide an overview of the curriculum, classroom environment, daily schedule, goals and objectives, guidance and discipline, lunches, snacks, and naps. Parents provide valuable information about their individual child, provide information about their families, bring photos of their families, etc.

CommunicationGood two-way communication between families and GCDC is necessary for student success. Not surprisingly, research shows that the more parents and teachers share relevant information with each other about a child, the better equipped both will be to help that child achieve in all areas of development.

Parents are given contact information for teachers and program administrators upon enrollment and throughout the school year. Parents are encouraged to contact teachers and/or program administrators at any time during business hours.

Chapter


Back to School Night

Communication

Emails

GCDC Electronic Mailing List

General Membership Meetings

Information Sharing

Parent and Teacher Conferences

Parent Areas

Parent Committee Meetings

Parental Input

Phone Calls

Volunteerism


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EmailsGCDC recognizes that e-mail is a valuable communication tool that is widely used across our society. Staff members are provided with a GCDC e-mail account (@gcdc-nasa.org) to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of communication with parents.

FacebookGCDC maintains a Facebook account. It can be accessed at www. Facebook.com/NASA.GCDC GCDC will not post photos of children without written permission from parents. Parents are encouraged to “Like” our page as a way to receive regular communication about school events.

GCDC Electronic Mailing ListGCDC communicates with parents via an electronic mailing list. Parents will automatically be added to the Members list upon submission of a membership application. Upon enrollment you will automatically be added to the Enrolled list.

General Membership MeetingsOnce a year, a General Meeting of the membership is called to review the past year's events and accomplishments. Elections for new board members and the next year's budget are also voted upon by a quorum of the membership. Special general meetings may be called throughout the year if issues arise that must be addressed in a timely manner.

Information SharingParents with children enrolled in a two-year class will receive a daily report that share information about their child’s day.

Newsletters are distributed electronically on a monthly basis throughout the school year to all GCDC members.

The GCDC Parent Board, located in the atrium, contains information that is posted for regulations or regarding the administration of the program. Notices of illness are posted on this board and within the Center for two weeks.

Routine information sharing is generally communicated through weekly notes and bulletin boards inside/outside each classroom. In addition, there is a dry erase board maintained in the atrium that provides important information on a daily basis or as needed.

Parents are responsible for reading bulletin boards, notices and newsletters and taking appropriate action as necessary.

Parent and Teacher ConferencesThese are one-on-one meetings that provide an opportunity for parents and teachers to engage in two-way communication about each child’s developmental progress. Parents and teachers also use this time to discuss progress reports. The report focuses on the total development of the child, including physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development.

A formal continuum assessment is completed on each child twice per year for all enrolled children; once in the fall and again in the spring. For the kindergarten class, an additional progress report may be given in the winter. Parent/teacher conferences will be scheduled


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twice a year with parents to discuss their child’s progress and development within the classroom. The report will focus on the total development of the child, including physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development.

Due to our licensing state ratio requirements we ask that if parents will need more than three to five minutes to speak with a teacher during the day that they schedule a time to meet away from the classroom. Parents are encouraged to discuss any matter they deem necessary with their child's teacher, GCDC Center Director, or Assistant Director.

Parent AreasGCDC has a parent area located on the ramp connecting the two school wings. This area is a cozy place to read to a child who may be having a rough morning or transition issues. Book topics range from caring for your newborn to choosing an appropriate school setting to raising a family on a budget. There is a sign-up sheet located on the shelf if you wish to borrow a book. There is place to draw/write and puppets to aid as necessary.

A second parent area is located in the hallway directly outside of room 112. There are a large variety of books including books on tape for your convenience.

Parent Committee MeetingsParent committee meetings are held monthly. All parents are invited to attend. Information about parent committee meetings will be posted at GCDC.

Parental InputParents should feel free to contact the Administration or the GCDC Board or the Director with questions or suggestions about the operation of the Center. There is a family suggestion box located on the parent information table in the atrium. Parents are asked to complete surveys and questionnaires during each year and upon exit from GCDC. Parents wishing to express concerns may request a conference with a teacher or the Director. If concerns are not resolved, a meeting with the Board may be requested.

Phone Calls Teachers may call parents to share information about their child’s progress or other concerns.

VolunteerismUpon acceptance of the child into the GCDC, the parent shall provide a minimum of six hours of volunteer work, per family, per school year (August - July). Examples of ways tomeet this requirement include participation in work/clean-up days, sewing, laundry duty, etc. Please see the Parent Volunteer Opportunities Sign-up Sheets, monthly Lunchbox Press, and or classroom teachers for additional suggestions.

The lead team coordinator works as the liaison between the teachers, administrators, and parents. As volunteer opportunities present themselves in the classrooms, common areas and throughout GCDC, the lead team coordinator will organize and recruit parents to assist in the program as needed. It is imperative that GCDC establishes and maintains collaborative relationships with each child’s family to foster our children’s development within our learning environment. Program staff works together with families to plan events, chaperone field trips, and assist with both indoor/outdoor activities. GCDC engages families in partnership with classroom planning.


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When volunteer opportunities become available, teachers and/or administrators will provide an outline to the lead team coordinator addressing the needs of the classroom and/or GCDC. The coordinator will then post the volunteer opportunities for parents to sign up, contact parent volunteers, and work out the schedule that is most convenient for the volunteers.

Upon a parent’s arrival for volunteer time, the coordinator will bring you to the location designated and provide you with an overview of how you can support us. Every attempt will be made to provide you with an immediate contact if you should have any questions or concerns regarding the volunteer opportunity. Upon completion of your designated assignment, you will stop by the Resource Room and see the coordinator to sign off on your volunteer log.

A family is expected to volunteer six or more hours per school year. If the volunteer hours are not met by the end of the school year, a fee will be assessed at a rate of $10 per unmet volunteer hour. Families whose schedules do not permit them time to volunteer have the option of paying $10 per volunteer hour (up to $60.00 per year under the current volunteer requirement). Families may choose to pay in advance; however,GCDC encourages families to volunteer, as it enriches their experience as GCDC members, assists GCDC in performing needed activities and shows their children the importance of being involved. At the beginning of the following school year (August) or upon withdrawal, whichever comes first, outstanding balances from the previous year’s volunteer requirement will be billed to the family. Failure to volunteer or pay for the outstanding volunteer hours is a violation of the Enrollment Agreement and could result in expulsion or legal action.


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GCDC PoliciesOur program emphasizes the positive aspects of your child’s world while helping him/her learn to cope with negative aspects. We believe that a child wakes up each morning eager to learn and experience new people and new situations, and to be a confident individual, thriving in our complex world. Your child will learn to be self-reliant, observantand inquisitive.

At GCDC, we will help your child use all five senses in learning to discover his/her world. Each classroom has a variety of materials arranged throughout 12 learning centers (interest areas). The centers include, but are not limited to dramatic play, blocks, language-literacy, library, listening station, science, math, sensory, art, technology and media, manipulatives, and music and movement.

Language arts emphasizes using sequential pre-reading tasks, phonics materials, such as word-picture cards, charts, and a variety of additional hands-on materials, which promote the understanding of print concepts. The language development approach emphasizes the understanding of written communication through hearing and discriminating the sound of language.

Mathematics, including counting, sorting, matching, discrimination of size and shape, addition and subtraction is taught using manipulative materials. Math concepts are connected to all aspects of the learning environment as well as the lesson planned activities. Children are taught to use logical thinking and problem solving skills.

Our science and social studies lessons bring the real world to children. Your child’s discoveries involving animal behavior, air, water, gardening, the community, and the world's people lend excitement and improved understanding of daily life.

Art, music, and movement education are integral parts of the Center’s curriculum and help to make a cultural contribution to well-rounded program.

Chapter


Child Ratios

Confidentiality

Conflict Resolution

Dress

Guidance &

Discipline

Field Trip Policy

Lost & Found

Materials Needed for

School

Nap Policy

Outdoor Play

Potty Training

Toys From Home

Transitions


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Child RatiosGCDC ensures that sufficient staff with primary responsibility for children is available to provide frequent personal contact; meaningful learning activities; supervision; and to offer immediate care as needed. The ratio of staff to children varies depending on the age of the children, the type of program activity, the inclusion of children with special needs, the time of day, and other factors. It is GCDC policy for all children to be appropriately supervised by staff at all times. The following chart summarizes GCDC teacher and child ratios.

Classroom Teacher:Child Ratio Maximum Group Size

Comets (2 Year Olds) 1:6 12

Little Discoveries (2 Year Olds) 1:6 12

Milky Ways (3-4 Year Olds) 1:10 16

Little Dippers (3 Year Olds) 1:10 16

Satellites (Pre-K) 1:10 20

Shooting Stars (4 Year Olds) 1:10 16

Constellations (Pre-K) 1:10 15

Rockets (Kindergarten) 1:15 15

ConfidentialityConfidentiality applies to all documents and information collected and maintained at GCDC for your child. The GCDC will not disclose information concerning an individual child or the child’s parent(s) or guardian(s) to a person other than the staff or government officials acting in the course of their duties, unless the parent(s) or guardian(s) grant written permission for the disclosure, except as required by law.

Conflict ResolutionOngoing, two-way communication is the best method for preventing conflict, especially between parents and teachers. When members of the GCDC community disagree, each has a responsibility to consider respectfully the other's views; to act in the best interest of any children involved; and to assume that the other party is doing the same. Parents who have a conflict with any member of the GCDC community should first contact that person directly, respectfully, and expediently and try to resolve the issue. If the issue isnot resolved or if it is not feasible to contact the person directly, you may contact theGCDC Center Director, who will work with both parties to resolve the problem.

DressPlay is the child’s work. It is important that children come to school appropriately dressed for their work. This work involves painting, gluing, molding, building, climbing, running, and jumping; therefore, washable play clothes are most appropriate. Occasionally, clothing can become stained, as children need to feel free to explore and experiment. Children are required to wear closed toe shoes on the playground. We suggest sending


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your child to GCDC in comfortable clothing that you don’t mind if it gets an occasional stain or dirt from your child’s exploration. Please remember that during winter months, appropriate winter garb, such as boots, hats, gloves, scarves are required to play in planned snowed activities.

Guidance and DisciplineOne of our teachers’ main goals is to facilitate the children’s development of responsibility and self-regulation. Teachers set clear, consistent, and fair limits for children’s behavior and hold them accountable to standards of acceptable behavior. To the extent that children are able, teachers engage them in developing rules and procedures for behavior of class members. Teachers redirect children to more acceptable behavior or activity or use children’s mistakes as learning opportunities, patiently reminding children of rules and their rationale as needed. Teachers listen and acknowledge children’s feelings and frustrations, respond with respect, and guide children to resolve conflicts and solve their own problems. Physical or verbal abuse will not be tolerated.

Challenging BehaviorWhen challenging behaviors occur, the GCDC will work with parents to identify age-appropriate solutions to the behavior. The parent and teacher may develop a contract that identifies expectations and roles for both parties to help the child gain control of his/her behavior in the child care setting. It is important to note that GCDC must maintain child care ratios as all times. If a child’s behavior becomes so disruptive that it puts the other children at risk or takes the teacher out of ratio for extended periods of time, the child may be excluded from care.

Field Trip PolicyField trips include walks around GSFC, as well as excursions away from GSFC. GCDC plans a minimum of three Center-wide field trips during the year for all classes. When school wide field trips are planned, GCDC is not open for care. Individual classrooms may schedule additional field trips throughout the school year to supplement the program. Please note: Parents of two-year olds must chaperone their children on fieldtrips and are not given volunteer credit time for attendance.

Each child must have a signed permission slip in order to attend field trips. Parent chaperones are welcome to attend and will be presented with this opportunity. GCDC provides bus transportation to and from each field trip, but chaperone space may be limited. If you are chaperoning a field trip, you will need to meet with your teacher prior to the scheduled field trip to review the field trip guidelines and receive your itinerary and field trip travelers’ first aid kit.

Once on the field trip, parents often wish to venture out on their own. We request that you do not separate from the group until your teacher has released you. Our field trips serve as hands-on learning opportunities to expand the lessons taught in school.

Lost and FoundLost and found items are placed in a large bin by the sign in/out table located in the entrance foyer. Please check the box periodically for any of your child’s belongings, as well as when you are aware your child has lost a particular item. Quite often children will leave items in the receiving room when they arrive early or in the closing room. For any other personal items, such as ID badges, drivers licenses, and keycards that have been misplaced, please check with the office.


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Materials Needed for SchoolEveryday classroom items include

A small blanket and a small pillow for rest periods (Note: the pillow must be able to fit in space provided without touching the floor).

An extra complete set of clothing (appropriate for season) to be kept on hand during the year. Please note if your child has an accident and we do not have a change of clothes for your child you will receive a telephone call to either bring a change of clothes or pick up your child. In the event that we have spare items available, we will utilize these items first.

A plastic smock or old, loose fitting shirt for art work and water play. A small stuffed animal or soft doll for nap time, if desired. A bathing suit, towel, swim shoes, and a water bottle (summer only). A sweater/jacket is useful on chilly days in the classroom. It is good for noontime

outdoor periods in the spring and fall when children might not yet need coats in the morning or afternoon.

Two-year-old room only: Items for diapering (disposable diapers, wipes, creams, etc.) The use of pull-up diapers is not permitted at GCDC. Bottles, pacifiers, and sippy cups are also not permitted in the Center at any time. If you use these items for your child, you must leave them in your car.

Parents must write the child’s first and last name on belongings and clothing items with permanent markers so that they can be returned if misplaced. This is very important with articles of clothing, such as coats, sweaters, mittens, hats, boots, etc.

Please check as the seasons change to be sure children have appropriate extra clothes for the season. Remember, children grow. If your child has not used the extra clothes for a while, he/she may have outgrown them.

Nap PolicyNap time is held from 1:00-3:00 PM for the two-year old through pre-kindergarten classrooms and 1:00-2:00PM for the kindergarten classroom. The environment is prepared for nap time by reducing the lights and closing window blinds/treatments and playing soft music to help children relax. Children are allowed to rest on their cot with their blanket and pillow and soft animal or doll. Please note the following:

The children are not required to sleep. All children must remain on their cot during naptime. If a child does not want to sleep, the child may be supplied a quiet activity on

their cot to occupy their time.

Cot sheets, blankets, and pillow cases are sent home every Friday, when soiled, or the last day of the week that your child is in attendance at GCDC. Please launder all items and bring them back to GCDC upon your return. Licensing Regulation – Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 13A.16.09.04 requires that all children have an adequate supply of clean bedding. If you fail to return your child’s cot sheet to GCDC, we will attempt to provide a sheet from our clean used sheets; however, if they are not available, parents will be charged a $10.00 fee each time that a sheet is not provided or available for your child.


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Outdoor PlayOutdoor play is an important and integral part of a high-quality early childhood education curriculum. We ask that parents assist us in ensuring that all children can go outside daily by providing appropriate weather gear for their child(ren). GCDC will not allow children to go outside if they do not have appropriate attire for the weather. Children will go outside on most days, except in rain, extreme cold or when the air quality is in the unhealthy range. Children must have outer garments appropriate for all weather. Mittens/gloves are needed on cold weather days. Boots and snowsuits are needed on snowy days when we go outside and play. Please bring them on the first day of snow. Please send an extra pair of shoes to wear in the classroom. We try to keep the classroom floors clean and dry (wet floors are slippery and cause accidents).

Sneakers or closed-toe shoes are required for outside play. Flip-flops and sandals with the toes exposed are dangerous for running and climbing. If a child absolutely insists on wearing open-toe shoes to school please send sneakers for outdoor play.

Conditions Outdoor Play

Below 10 degrees Outdoor playtime will not be permitted. Alternative activities will be available.

Between 10-20 degrees Outdoor playtime will be limited to 10 to 15 minute increments. Children without proper attire will not be permitted to go outside.

Between 20-30 degrees Outdoor playtime will be limited to 20 to 30 minute increments. Children without proper attire will not be permitted to go outside.

30+ degrees Outdoor playtime will remain at the regular scheduled playtime of 45 minutes to 1 hour. Children without proper attire will not be permitted to go outside.

Code Red Air Quality Outdoor playtime will be limited to 10 to 15 minute increments. On Mondays and Fridays, Sprinkle Time activities will be permitted at the regular scheduled time.

Code Orange Air Quality Outdoor playtime will be limited to 20 minute increments. On Mondays and Fridays, Sprinkle Time activities will be permitted at the regular scheduled time.

Code Yellow Air Quality Outdoor playtime will be limited to 30 minute increments. On Mondays and Fridays, Sprinkle Time activities will be permitted at the regular scheduled time.

Code Green Air Quality Outdoor playtime will remain at the regular scheduled playtime of 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Potty TrainingEach enrolled child in the two-year-old classrooms is not required to be potty trained, but will be assisted in potty training before they transition into the 3/4-year-old classroom. Pull-ups are not permitted at GCDC. With pull-ups the child does not feel the discomfort of wetness and the potty training process is slower. Once the decision has been made to


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start the potty training process, children are to arrive at school in underwear. Diapers or other forms of diapers should not return to school.

Toys from HomeIn order to support teachers in the classrooms, we ask that families not allow children to bring toys from home to school unless teachers have asked the children to bring something to share for share time or to support a learning activity or concept. This policy will reduce the tears or conflicts over broken or lost items.

TransitionsTransition is the psychological process children/people go through to come to terms with a new situation. Children’s transitioning is based upon a combination of their birth date and developmental maturity. To ensure an easier and a healthier transition for your child, GCDC has developed a transition module that will allow children to feel more comfortable and confident within their new environment. The start of your child’s transition will begin with the child visiting their new classroom and teacher for the period of two hours per day. Generally, this will happen on a Monday and the total number of hours will increase as the week continues. Please see the following sample schedule outline:

Monday and Tuesday: Children start to visit new classroom from 9:45 AM-11:45 AM. A teacher from the new classroom will escort the children to and from their current classroom with a buddy from their classroom.

Wednesday: Children start to visit new classroom from 9:45 AM-12:45 PM. A teacher from the new classroom will escort the children to and from their current classroom with a buddy from their classroom. The children’s lunch will be transferred to the new classroom.

Thursday: Children start to visit new classroom from 9:45 AM-3:30 PM. A teacher from the new classroom will escort the children to and from their current classroom with a buddy from their classroom. The children’s lunch and rest time materials will be transferred to the new classroom.

Friday: Children start to visit new classroom from 9:45 AM until parent pick-up. The Lead Teacher may recommend to the parent the day before to drop off child in new classroom. Otherwise, a teacher from the new classroom will escort the children to and from their current classroom with a buddy from their classroom. All cubby/locker materials will be transferred to the new classroom.

Friday marks the last day of transition for your child (if recommended and agreed upon prior to transitioning). The following Monday will be the child’s first full day in his or hernew learning environment! On this day parents will drop off their child in their new classroom for a new year of learning adventures.

The majority of classroom transitions take place during the summer for the new classroom placements for the new school year. Transitions are not mandatory, but recommended for children who need a transition period to ensure a less traumatic experience into a new environment. Each has individual needs, which may vary. Transitions do not have to be for the entire week; some children may adjust in twoto three days, while others need an extended period of time. This is based on teacher’s recommendations about the child’s developmental needs and parents’ input, prior to transition period.


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Safety and SecurityYour child’s safety and security are our number one priority. Health and safety policies provide specific guidelines to promote health and safety, and prevent the spread of contagious diseases in the child care setting. Policies include specific guidelines required by licensing or regulations, best practices, and information specific to GSFC.

Emergency Evacuations

In the event of an extreme emergency, in which GCDC (Building 90) is to be evacuated, all groups will exit through the closest playground exit gate and proceed across the grass to building 26, room 205, located across from the lower grass area.

Fire DrillsGCDC participates in planned monthly fire drills to ensure the children know the appropriate response to a fire emergency. Evacuation plans are posted in each classroom. In the event of inclement weather, GCDC will take safe harbor in the GSFC Health Unit (building 97).

Lockdown ProceduresIn the event that the GSFC Security personnel have instituted a CENTER-WIDE LOCKDOWN, meaning all employees must stay indoors, GCDC will also go on lock-down. GCDC Administration will send an email to enrolled parents with further instructions. If the internet is down we will contact parents via telephone.

Security/Key Card AccessGCDC is secured by a key card access system at all entrances. Upon enrollment, parents employed by GSFC will be given documentation to apply for key card access to GCDC. GCDC will submit this paperwork to GSFC security. This process may take a few days. There is a replacement charge for lost key cards. Please do not share your key card with anyone outside the Center. Parents who do not work for GSFC will not be issued a key card and must ring the doorbell for entry in to GCDC. Parents are asked not to open the door for anyone if you are uncertain of his or her identity. Please contact a staff member immediately.

Chapter


Emergency Evacuation

Fire Drills

Lockdown Procedures

Security/Key Cards

Parent Handbook

Documents

Transcript of Parent Handbook