PARENT HANDBOOK - Tender Treasurestendertreasures.ca/.../01/Parent-Handbook-2017-18.pdf · The...

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Last Updated: January 5, 2017

PARENT

HANDBOOK

The intent of this Parent Handbook is to support transparency and communication with parents and

families. It clarifies information about the services that are offered so that parents and TTMS licensees

share similar expectations about our program. A hard copy of our Parent Handbook is kept in the

front lobby of our school. An electronic copy is sent out to parents touring our school and can be

requested at any time in which the Supervisor/Designate will email the PDF version to the

parent who made the request. The handbook is reviewed annually or on an as need basis

and will be updated accordingly.

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Table of Contents Philosophy Statement.................................................................................................................. 3

Programs ................................................................................................................................... 12

Program List.......................................................................................................................... 12

Infants - 6 Weeks to 18 Months ........................................................................................ 12

Toddlers - 18 to 30 Months ............................................................................................... 14

Preschool Program - 2 ½ to 3.6 Years .............................................................................. 16

Junior & Senior Kindergarten – 3.6 to 6 years ................................................................. 16

Practical Life ........................................................................................................................ 18

Sensorial .............................................................................................................................. 18

Language ............................................................................................................................. 19

CASA ROOM 1 DAILY SCHEDULE ................................................................................... 21

CASA ROOM 2 DAILY SCHEDULE ................................................................................... 22

CASA ROOM 3 & 4 DAILY SCHEDULE ............................................................................ 23

REGISTRATION POLICY .................................................................................................. 25

REENROLLMENT PROCESS FOR JK &SK STUDENTS ............................................... 26

When You Can't Pick Up Your Child ................................................................................... 27

Late Pick Up of Children ...................................................................................................... 27

Emergencies .......................................................................................................................... 27

Security Control System ....................................................................................................... 28

Dress Code - Policy .............................................................................................................. 30

Sleep and Rest Policy............................................................................................................ 31

Wait List Policy .................................................................................................................... 31

Sick Policy ............................................................................................................................ 32

Medication Policy ................................................................................................................. 33

Prescription Medication: ...................................................................................................... 33

Non-Prescription Medication: .............................................................................................. 34

Life Support Medication: ...................................................................................................... 34

Behaviour Management and Discharge Policy ..................................................................... 38

Fire Drills and Evacuation .................................................................................................... 38

Privacy Act Policy ................................................................................................................ 39

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Philosophy Statement

Tender Treasures Montessori School (“TTMS.”) is based on the educational philosophy and academic methods of Dr. Maria Montessori. Maria Montessori’s philosophy states that children should be free to work at their own pace with materials they have chosen, either alone or with others. Between birth and the age of six, children are able to acquire specific skills with an ease that will never be duplicated in later life. To take full advantage of these extraordinary abilities, TTMS. offers an enriched environment in which children are encouraged to explore their interests and develop their full potential by stimulating the cognitive, social, emotional, physical and creative stages of development. In our school children‘s innate zeal for learning is encouraged by allowing them opportunities to choose among an array of purposeful activities. The aim is to encourage active, self-directed learning by providing experiences contributing to the growth of confident, self-motivated, independent learners who are respectful of themselves and others. We believe that a child will feel safe, secure and happy in an atmosphere that will challenge and maximize his/her full potential.

“Our aim is not merely to make children understand, and still less to force them to memorize, but so to touch their imaginations as to enthuse them

to their innermost core.” Dr. Maria Montessori TTMS. believes that it is essential to have a strong relationship with parents and our staff; this will ensure we are providing your child with the best possible care. We encourage and welcome parents to participate in TTMS.’s program. We are always open to your comments and concerns and will do our best to satisfy your family needs. We look forward to working with you and to providing your children with a lifetime of new and exciting opportunities.

TENDER TREASURES MONTESSORI SCHOOL IS

CCMA ACCREDITED AND LICENSED BY THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

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Tender Treasures Montessori School (TTMS) offers a learning program that follows the Maria Montessori philosophy. This philosophy views children as competent beings capable of self-directed learning. Dr. Montessori developed the “Montessori Method” through her extensive work with children and her keen insight and observation skills. She based her educational methods on scientific observations of children’s learning processes. Her discovery that children teach themselves led her to design a “prepared environment” in which children could freely choose from a number of developmentally appropriate activities.

TTMS understands the influences that families, communities and life experiences have on each

child’s stages of development. We embrace the uniqueness of each child by delivering programs

and services that builds on their strengths and abilities.

TTMS’s “Inclusion Policy” recognizes and respects the unique qualities of each child and

family, including ancestry, culture, ethnicity, race, language, gender, gender identity, sexual

orientation, religion, socio-economic status, family environment, and developmental abilities and

needs.

Our caring and responsive professionals create engaging environments and experiences that

foster all children’s learning and development. Children thrive in programs where they are able

to express themselves freely and creatively, not bound by preset limitations. Providing child-

initiated and adult supported experiences encourages positive interactions among the children

and supports their ability to self-regulate.

Self- regulate is the ability to monitor and control our own behavior, emotions, or thoughts.

Children‘s innate zeal for learning is encouraged by allowing them opportunities to choose among an array of purposeful activities. The aim is to encourage active, self-directed learning by providing experiences contributing to the growth of confident, self-motivated, independent learners who are respectful of themselves and others. When children feel safe, secure, valued and a contributing member of their world they are able to explore, discover, try new things, grow, learn and develop to their full potential.

“Education is a natural process carried out by the child and is not acquired by listening to words but by experience in the environment.”

. Dr.Maria Montessori

TTMS’s curriculum is a collaboration of the Montessori Philosophy and the Ministry of

Education’s Policy Statement on Programming and Pedagogy.

Pedagogy is “the understanding of how learning takes place and the philosophy and practice that support that understanding of learning.” Early Learning for Every Child Today: A Framework for Ontario Early Childhood Settings

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Our programs are structured around Dr. Maria Montessori and the four foundations of How Does

Learning Happen; Belonging, Well-being, Engagement, and Expression.

These foundations apply regardless of age, ability, culture, language and upbringing.

FOUNDATIONS GOALS FOR CHILDREN EXPECTATIONS FOR

CHILDREN

Belonging

Every child has a sense of

belonging when he or she is

connected to others and

contributes to their world.

Early childhood programs

cultivate authentic, caring

relationships and connections

to create a sense of belonging

among and between children,

adults, and the world around

them.

Well-Being

Every child is developing a

sense of self, health, and

well-being.


nurture children’s healthy

development and support

their growing sense of self.

Engagement

Every child is an active and

engaged learner who explores

the world with body, mind,

and senses.


provide environments and

experiences to engage

children in active, creative,

and meaningful exploration,

play, and inquiry.

Expression

Every child is a capable

communicator who expresses

him or herself in many ways.


foster communication and

expression in all forms.

Tender Treasures Montessori School believes that children are competent, capable, curious and rich in potential. They grow up in families with diverse social, cultural and linguistic perspectives. Every child should feel that they belong; they should feel as if they are a valuable contributor to their surroundings and most of all they “the child” deserves the opportunity to succeed. When we recognize children as capable and curious, we are more likely to deliver programs and services that value and build on their strengths and abilities. At TTMS we support pedagogy and the approaches that nurture learning and development in the early years. Pedagogy is “the understanding of how learning takes place and the philosophy and practice that support the understanding of learning”. Thinking about pedagogy provides a new way for educators to consider their work. It helps educators to:

Look more carefully at what and how they do things each and every day;

Think about the why of their practice

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Understand more sincerely how their actions have an impact on children and their

families

Pedagogical approaches that nurture learning and development in the early years include:

Establishing positive, responsive adult-child relationships

Providing inclusive learning environments and experiences that encourage

exploration, play and inquiry

Engaging as co-learners with children, families/caregivers and others

Using pedagogical documentation as a means to discuss and make learning

visible to children/families and other caregivers

Participating in ongoing reflective practice and collaborative inquiry with others

These approaches that are effective for children are also key elements of learning and engagement for families and those who work with children; what is good pedagogy for children is also good pedagogy for adults. Families are composed of individuals who are competent and capable, curious and rich in experience. Families love their children and want the best for them. Families are experts on their children. They are the first and most powerful influence on children’s learning, development, health and well-being. Families bring diverse social, cultural and linguistic perspectives. Families should feel that they belong and are valuable contributors to their children’s learning and deserve to be engaged in a meaningful way. Educators are competent and capable, curious and rich in experience. They are knowledgeable, caring, reflective and resourceful professionals. We bring diverse social, cultural and linguistic perspectives. They collaborate with other to create engaging environments and experiences to foster children’s learning and development. Educators are lifelong learners. They take responsibility for their own learning and make decisions about ways to integrate knowledge from theory, research, their own experience and their understanding of the individual children and families they work with. Every educator should feel that they belong, they are valuable contributors and deserve the opportunity to engage in meaningful work. The educators and administrators at TTMS. share the children’s experiences and daily adventures through documentation. The documentation is shared with families through monthly newsletters and posted photos inside and outside of each classroom. We document through photography taken of the children through the day. We use the photos to support how we maintain the four foundations of HDLH. At Tender Treasures Montessori School each of our classrooms and all of our staff promote, support, encourage and foster the following:

Health, safety and nutrition and well-being of the children by providing proper

training to all educators/staff in our School.

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Positive and responsive interactions among the children, parents/caregivers,

Supervisor and Owners through positive daily communication by meetings, emails

and open door policy.

Work together in a positive way as a team (caregiver to children) to support

children’s abilities to self-regulate and build resiliency, by proving tools to

educators and the families to build consistent communication and plan when

required for the individual child.

Foster children exploration, play and inquiry by allowing and providing opportunity

through open ended experiences in the classroom, playground, field trips and

outside programs such as French and Monkeynastix.

Provide child-initiated and adult supported experience through daily and weekly

observations and documentation to support child initiated play.

By creating and supporting a nurturing and motivating environment.

Incorporate indoor and outdoor play, active play and rest/quiet times.

Support our educators who interact with the children in relation to continuous

professional development. TTMS does provide various in-house workshops

related to children development, implementation of programming and other related

workshops in the field of Early Childhood Education.

We provide support to families and staff for children with diverse abilities (Early

intervention, speech and language pathologists).

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TENDER TREASURES MONTESSORI SCHOOL PROGRAM STATEMENT FOR 2017-2018

As pursuant to the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014, ONTARIO REGULATION 137/15, Program Statement – Section 46 (1) (2) (3)

Tender Treasures Montessori School (TTMS) offers a learning program that follows the Maria Montessori philosophy. Our philosophy views children as competent, capable, curious, and

rich in potential. Our programs are structured around this philosophy and the four foundations of Ontario’s Pedagogy For The Early Years: How Does Learning Happen. The four

foundations are: Belonging, Well-Being, Expression and Engagement.

GOAL APPROACH IMPLEMENTATION

A Promote the

health, safety,

nutrition, and

well-being of

the children

TTMS meets all local government by-laws

regulated by the Ministry of Education,

Ministry of Health, and City of Vaughan

Fire.

Staff will be trained and informed

regarding TTMS Policies and Procedures

upon commencement of employment and

annually thereafter.

The Policies and Procedures in place

include:

Serious Occurrence

Anaphylaxis

Food and Nutrition

Sanitary

Sick Policy

Emergency Procedures

Standard First Aid and CPRC

(a) Health:

Handwashing activities

Staff instruct children regarding maintenance of personal hygiene.

Staff are mindful of the physical state of each child on an ongoing basis throughout the day.

Daily sanitization of all equipment in the facility.

(b) Safety:

Maintain ratios at all times

Keep dangerous substances in a safe locked area out of reach at all times.

Staff are trained in appropriate responses to all emergencies.

Daily playground checks

Stranger danger

(c) Nutrition:

Provide daily nutritious morning snack, lunch, and afternoon snack.

Recognize each child’s individual nutritional needs (food restrictions and allergies).

Menus are evaluated by a Registered Dietician.

Children are taught about healthy eating according to the Canada Food Guide.

B Support positive

and responsive

interactions

among the

children,

parents, child

care providers,

and staff

Our school community will encourage

respectful interactions amongst children,

childcare providers, and parents/caregivers.

We promote open communication through

various means.

We honor each of our educators by having

open discussions with them regarding their

behaviour. Parents are involved in the

process.

Developmentally appropriate body language and facial expressions

Wait time

Staff speak calmly using appropriate tones and voice levels

Maintaining eye contact when appropriate

Acknowledging a child’s thoughts and feelings

Asking questions to show interest and sharing ideas

Providing appreciations and warm interaction

Attentive listening

Smiling, nodding, welcoming hugs

Model positive behaviours and communication styles

Going down to the level of a child (eye-to-eye communication)

C Encourage the

children to

We facilitate collaborative learning

experiences where children develop Helping children to identify and label their emotions

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interact and

communicate in

a positive way

and support

their ability to

self-regulate

interpersonal skills and various approaches

of positive expression.

We are proactive about fostering self-

regulation through learning experiences and

the learning environment.

Self-regulation corner encompassing resources such as: squeeze balls, headphones, ear muffs,

bubble wrap, sparkle jar, play dough, print materials, colour zones, drawing materials and paper.

Co-operative learning strategies about emotions and how to handle stressful or negative

situations

Teach conflict resolution strategies

Community circles

D Foster the

children’s

exploration,

play, and

inquiry

TTMS values children as competent,

capable and curious learners. We invite

children to investigate the learning

environment and make connections

between it and the world around them.

The staff ask open-ended questions to

foster the natural curiosity that exists in

each of our children. Our learning

environment consists of developmentally

appropriate play-based learning materials

available for exploration and inquiry.

Inquiry projects

Asking open-ended questions to stimulate imagination and creativity.

Allowing children to investigate their environment and test their theories through monthly

inquiry-based learning projects.

Nature walks

Wonder window

Sensory activities such as : playdough, jello, snow, leaves, smell jars, pasta, rice

Resources are available for child-initiated play-based learning such as: loose parts, reclaimed

materials, art materials

E Provide child-

initiated and

adult-supported

experiences

Staff encourage children to take ownership

in their learning and take risks in order to

recognize strengths and areas of growth.

We provide adult-supported experiences

while allowing children to maintain a sense

of autonomy.

(a) Child-initiated experiences:

Building with wooden blocks, lego, connect blocks, yogurt containers, juice cartons,

cardboard boxes, paper towel rolls, and sticks.

Push toys

Locks and keys

Dramatic play

Visual and creative art activities such as: painting, drawing, finger painting, sculpting,

collage, bingo dabbers.

Reading and listening to stories

Mirrors

(b) Adult-supported experiences:

Name that song and sing along

Cooking activities

Literacy activities

Yoga and mindfulness

Circle time, calendar time, and story time

Flash cards

Practical life skills

Potty learning

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F Plan for and

create positive

learning

environments

and experiences

in which each

child’s learning

and

development

will be

supported

The materials and resources provided in

classrooms are balanced between both

open-ended and single-purposed materials.

The materials provided are play-based.

Classrooms are organized in learning areas

which are developmentally appropriate and

reflect each student’s interests and abilities.

The décor is child inspired so that children

can see themselves reflected in the

classroom.

Childcare providers take the time to get to

know each child holistically in order to

differentiate instruction which is catered to

the needs of each individual child.

(a) Open-ended Materials:

Loose parts

Visual art materials

Fabrics and textiles

Manipulative toys

Puppets

(b) Single-purpose Materials:

Toy cars, people, animals and dolls

Puzzles and board games

Maps

(c) Areas of Learning:

Practical life area

Reading centre

Math centre

Dramatic centre

Language and writing area

Culture area including elements of history, geography, art, craft, music, botany, zoology,

science, drama, movement, social studies, health and well-being.

(d) Knowing each child:

All About Me child information form

G Incorporate

indoor and

outdoor play, as

well as active

play, rest, and

quiet time, into

the day, and

give

consideration to

the individual

needs of the

children

receiving the

care

We facilitate various activities throughout

the day that are conducive to the learning

needs of every child.

We encourage the children to make choices

with respect to choosing and initiating

activities.

The learning environment is equipped with

diverse spaces allowing for both active play

and rest/quiet time. Children always have

the choice to engage in rest and quiet time

when needed.

(a) Indoor Play:

Tunnels, trampoline, river pads, music and movement

(b) Outdoor Play:

Play structure, bicycles, tricycles, plasma cars, sand/water box, balls, hula hoops, chalk,

bubbles

(c) Active Play:

Just dance

Brain breaks

Monkeynastix

(d) Rest and Quiet Time:

Cots/Cribs for sleep

Carpet/Matt areas

Bean bags and pillows

H Foster the

engagement of

and on-going

communication with parents

about the

TTMS strongly believes in fostering a solid

home to school connection. This is

achieved by creating a parent to caregiver

partnership.

Monthly newsletters and calendars

Daily verbal communication

Mini memos posted on cubbies

Parent phone call/email inquires

Daily charts consisting of nap times, meals, and toileting

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program and

their children

We strengthen relationships and trust by

facilitating ongoing dialogue with

caregivers regarding the program and

development of their children.

Record of each child’s learning and development available to parents upon request

Parent interviews (twice a year)

Celebrations and events

Quilt of belonging

Parent information board with pamphlets

Progress reports

I Involve local

community

partners and

allow those

partners to

support the

children, their

families and

staff

TTMS aims to seek out local community

partners in attempt to support children,

their families, and childcare providers

Vaughan Fire

York Region Police

Local dentist

Earth Day community clean up

York Region Public Health

J Support staff,

home child care

providers or

others who

interact with the

children at a

child care centre

or home child

care premises

inn relation to

continuous

professional

learning

All of the staff at TTMS are dedicated

educators committed to ongoing

professional learning. We provide

opportunities for collaborative reflective

practice, pedagogical inquiry and hands-on

professional development and training.

Regular staff meetings to discuss concerns, issues, or topics of interest for learning strategies

Workshops and training sessions

Informal collaborative practice amongst co-teachers in the classrooms

Provide training for volunteers and placement teachers

Provide print and digital resources such as: E.L.E.C.T, How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s

Pedagogy for the Early Years, Child Care and Early Years Act 2014, Think, Feel, Act.

We send all staff links to webinars and websites related to education

Conferences and Legislative training

P.A. Days (twice a year)

K Document and

review the

impact of the

strategies set

out in clauses

(a) to (j) on the

children and

their families

TTMS understands the importance of

reviewing the practice of each caregiver to

ensure that the goals of the program

statement are being implemented.

This allows us to evaluate the impact of our

practices on children and their families.

This evaluation allows us to identify the

effectiveness of learning strategies and next

steps for program planning.

Pedagogical documentation – anecdotal observations, Nipissing Checklist, daily observations

Monthly staff reflection log

Annual checklist

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Programs

Tender Treasures Montessori School offers a full time based program only. Children can arrive at the School as early as 7:00 a.m. and can be picked up as late as 6:00 p.m. In order for your child to benefit from our educational programming, we ask that all children be in their classrooms between the times of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program List

Infants - 6 Weeks to 18 Months This unique program offers a caring and stimulating environment designed to meet the individual needs of each child. Parents are required to provide personalized schedules upon registration to document valuable information about their child’s needs; feeding times, new foods being introduce, naps, etc. Daily charting will help each child and their parents to develop at their own pace.

Parents are responsible for providing milk (other than 2%), formula, diapers, wipes and creams needed for their infants, all of which must be clearly labeled with the infant’s name.

We ask that you provide enough bottles to accommodate your child’s feeding schedule. Tender Treasures Montessori School is not responsible for sanitizing bottles. Bottles will be sent home daily to be cleaned. If you child is under 1 year of age; parents are permitted to provide home cooked food. This food must be clearly labelled. All food must be peanut/nut free as well as pork free.

TTMS allows for children in this program only to have a supply of snacks available to them. These snacks can be but not limited to: puffs, yogurt, cheese, cookies and so on. These items must be in the originally package and have a clear expiry date.

Time is spent both indoors and outdoors and children are encouraged to explore their world in a safe and loving environment. Daily activities, crafts, songs, games and age appropriate educational toys all combine to provide the perfect atmosphere for growing minds and bodies.

Teacher/child ratio is 1:3.

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INFANT ROOM 1 DAILY SCHEDULE

7:00 – 8:00 Arrival Time & Free Play

8:00 – 8:45 AM Snack (a.m. snack served & bottles as required) Diaper Routine

Free play and shelf toys

8:45 – 10:00 Attendance, Morning Welcome Routine, O Canada Educational Curriculum – Circle Time:

Songs, books, floor activities, arts and crafts

10:00 – 11:00 Outdoor Activities Neighbourhood Walk – Weather Permitting

11:00 – 2:00 Lunch Time Diaper Routine

Meals or bottles (as required) Nap Time

2:00 – 3:00 PM Snack (Bottles as required) Diaper Routine

3:00 – 4:00 Outdoor Activity Neighbourhood Walk - Weather permitting

4:15 – 6:00 Educational Curriculum – Circle Time Songs, books, floor activities, free play and shelf toys

Diaper Changes as needed Departure Time

Please note this is just a guideline for this age group.

Schedule is based on the children’s needs.

Children are offered sleep and rest throughout the day when

he/she feels the need to do so.

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Toddlers - 18 to 30 Months

We offer a full day program for toddlers focusing on both physical and mental growth. Toddlers are given the freedom to explore in a safe and stimulating environment. With the teacher’s guidance, basic rules, routines and social interactions are encouraged. The toddler program will offer your child an opportunity at a well-balanced curriculum that integrates the Montessori philosophy. A wide variety of planned indoor and outdoor activities are included each day. AM/PM snacks and lunch are provided in small groups. Nap or rest periods are provided for two hours every day. We provide a toilet training routine and a daily charting system to let parents know about their child’s toileting and eating schedule.

Teacher/child ratio is 1:5.

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TODDLER ROOM 1 & 2 DAILY SCHEDULE

7:00 – 8:00 Arrival Time and Free Play

8:00 – 8:45

AM Snack Individual Time/Group Time

Attendance

8:45- 10:00

O Canada, Washroom Routine/Diaper Change Educational Curriculum – Circle Time: (Days of the week, Weather, Songs)

(Art & Drama)

10:00-11:00 Outdoor Activities

11:00-11:30

Educational Curriculum Washroom Routine/Diaper Change

(Montessori Activites – Practical Life & Sensorial)

11:30-12:00 Lunch (See Menu)

12:00-1:45 Nap Time/Quiet Time

(If the child is not resting after 1hr, alternate table activities will be provided)

1:45-2:00 Washroom Routine/Diaper Change

PM Snack


3:00-4:00 PM Circle

(Music, Movement, Reading, Writing & Math)

4:00-5:00 Washroom Routine/Diaper Change

Individual Time/Group Time

5:00-6:00 Departure time and Free Play

Please note this is just a guideline for this age group.

Schedule is based on the children’s needs.



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Montessori Programs

Preschool Program - 2 ½ to 3.6 Years Teacher/child ratio is 1:8

Junior & Senior Kindergarten – 3.6 to 6 years Teacher/child ratio is 1:13

What Makes it Unique?

The Prepared Environment

A Montessori CASA class consists of children aged 2½ to 6 years old. Casa comes from Maria Montessori's own description of her early childhood program as "the children's house," or "the casa dei bambini." Montessori Casa refers to the fact that all aspects of the Montessori preschool environment are created specifically for preschool aged children. It is a world scaled down to the child’s size and stage of development. The Casa is full of Montessori materials; that are handcrafted and made of unique, colourful materials in order to stimulate the child’s senses and intellect. They are displayed at child height to encourage the child to decide which learning activity to master next, with each tool representing one concept that will further the learning evolution. The curriculum areas are Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Math and Culture, which include the arts. At the same time, the child is guided in an especially important area known as Grace& Courtesy that consists of lessons in manners, etiquette, cooperation, conflict resolution and leadership.

The class size is small allowing ample individual attention and based on the individual needs and capabilities of each child. In the classroom the children are offered a graduated series of materials and activities and are encouraged to develop a sense of satisfaction from a job well done. Children learn together, living and working cooperatively. Children will mix with others of different ages, benefiting all the children in the preschool. The different age levels benefit from the community atmosphere. The older child learns through teaching the younger child. The younger child is inspired to do more advanced work by having older children working in the same environment.

In our “prepared environment” the children help and encourage each other and model responsible behaviour. The children work toward self-creation, under the gentle guidance of the directress and the materials and activities are specifically designed to create a sense of purpose for your child. This increases their sense of achievement and develops within them a joy for learning. We know your child will have a positive experience at Tender Treasures

Montessori School, because we will be working very hard to make sure it is.

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The prepared environment offers the essential elements for optimal development.

Characteristics of the prepared environment include:

Beauty, order, reality, simplicity and accessibility.

Children must be given freedom to work and move around within suitable guidelines that enable them to act as part of a social group.

Children should be provided with specifically designed materials which help them to explore their world and enable them to develop essential cognitive skills.

Mixed age groups (i.e. three to six, six to nine, nine to twelve) encourage all children to develop their personalities socially and intellectually at their own pace.

The Montessori Materials

The Montessori materials are unique to Montessori Schools.

Dr. Montessori's scientific observations of the children led her to design a number of multisensory, sequential, and self-correcting materials. They have been specifically designed to aid development with practical life skills, fine motor development, hand-eye coordination, development of all the senses, writing, reading, numeracy, geography, history, biology, science, art and music. Through combining all these areas, we give each child a strong foundation for later learning. The Montessori materials (often referred to as didactic materials) are devised so that each has a “control of error” inherent in the activity. This allows the child to correct themselves and make discoveries on their own. The children engage with the materials when they are ready. The Montessori materials fall into five major categories: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics and Cultural.

Each Montessori class, from toddlers through casa, operates on the principle of freedom within limits. Every program has its set of ground rules which differ from age to age, but is always based on core Montessori beliefs - respect for each other and for the environment.

Children are free to work at their own pace with materials they have chosen, either alone or with others. The teacher relies on his or her observations of the children to determine which new activities and materials may be introduced to an individual child or to a small or large group. The aim is to encourage active, self-directed learning and to strike a balance of individual mastery with small group collaboration within the whole group community.

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The multi-age grouping in each class provides a family-like setting where learning can take place naturally. More experienced children share what they have learned while reinforcing their own knowledge and skills. The multi-age community interaction is intrinsic to Montessori. This encourages rich language experiences, and opportunities for the development of empathy and social learning.

Children in the Montessori class possess what Dr. Montessori called the Absorbent Mind. This type of mind has the unique and transitory ability to absorb all aspects physical, mental, spiritual of the environment, without effort or fatigue. As an aid to the child's self-construction, individual work is encouraged. The following areas of activity cultivate the children's ability to express themselves and think with clarity:

Practical Life

The Practical Life component of the Montessori Method is the link between the child's home environment and the classroom. Children are naturally interested in activities they have witnessed. Within this are four areas of focus: Control of Movement, Care of Person, Care of the Environment and Grace and Courtesy. The activities include real implements and equipment rather than ‘pretend’ ones and include many of the tasks children see as part of the daily life in their home such as pouring, sweeping, dusting, buttoning, zipping and table setting washing and ironing, doing the dishes, etc. concentration. Materials used will involve the children in precise movements that encourage their ability to concentrate, work at their own pace without interruption, and to complete and enjoyable and challenging activity.

Sensorial

Sensorial exercise deal with developing the five senses. By developing the five senses, the child develops intelligence and independence. Dr. Montessori wrote,

“The aim (of sensorial exercises) is an inner one, namely, that the child train himself to observe; that he be led to make comparisons between objects, to form judgments, to reason and to decide; and it is in the indefinite repetition of this exercise of attention and of intelligence that a real development ensues.”. Through the beauty and ingeniously attractive sensorial materials and activities, the children use their minds and bodies in ways to prepare themselves for concentrated study in later years.

These materials are unique in that they have built-in control of errors which allow the child to be the ‘master’ of their own work and learn through manipulation and discovery. Some materials consist of smelling bottles, weight cylinders, rough and smooth boards, tasting bottles, sound cylinders, Montessori bells, Pink Tower, Broad Stairs, Red Rods, Knobbed and Knob less Cylinders, a Geometric Cabinet and Constructive

P a g e 19 | 40


Triangle Boxes, as well as Geometric Solids (which will all be the Geometry materials of the Lower Elementary).

Language

A child’s development of language is an important step for him/her on the road to independence. The language materials provide for vocabulary enrichment and training and the development of reading and writing. Language allows the child to express him/herself, communicate with others. Language has four main aspects: listening, speaking, reading and writing. In Montessori education reading is taught by the ‘phonetic’ method. ‘Phonetic’ means ‘by sound’ and our whole system of teaching reading is based on teaching the child the sounds made by each letter of the alphabet. By working with the language materials, the child develops an awareness of sentence structure and the many rules. Language development is stimulated in all the areas of the classroom.

Mathematics

The Math materials begin with very concrete examples of number symbols and quantity. As the child progresses the lessons and concepts increase in difficulty and become more abstract.

Montessori mathematics focuses on numeration, the decimal system, and geometry. Our base ten system encourages the child to sequence and order his work. Beginning with numbers 1-10, 1-100, and 1-1000, the children learn linear counting and recognition of numerals, which then leads into addition, subtraction, multiplication and division concepts. This is done through fun activities which involve lots of movement, manipulatives and group work.

Cultural

The cultural materials give the children a strong sense of who they are and their place in the world. The Montessori cultural studies integrates elements of history, geography, art, craft, music, botany, zoology, science, drama, language, movement, social studies, health and well-being. In this, preschool Montessori education, children are taught various continents of the world and then narrows to countries, oceans, lakes and rivers. They learn to compare and classify the parts of plants and animals.

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Field Trips

Field trips may include walks to libraries, community parks, and local stores. These excursions are often a starting point to encourage children to explore their outside environment. Field trips may be marked on your child's monthly calendar and on signs posted in the School. If your child's teacher plans an excursion that requires transportation, you will be notified in advance and asked to complete a separate consent form.

CONSENT FORM FOR FIELD TRIPS Re:________________________________________________________

Child’s Full Name I hereby give consent to Tender Treasures Montessori School to leave the premises of the daycare from time to time, to participate in excursions to places of interest planned as part of the children’s daycare program. It is understood that members of the staff will provide constant supervision. We will be taking walking excursions only. NOTE: For any special field trips that we at TTMS will go with the children, parents will receive a separate permission form outlining the details and giving notice in advanced to all parents. ____________________________________ Parent Signature ____________________________________ Date

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CASA ROOM 1 DAILY SCHEDULE

7:00 – 8:30

Arrival Time & Free Play AM Snack (7:45-8:15)

Individual Time/Group Time

8:00-9:00

Outdoor Activities

9:30-12:00

Montessori Work Oh Canada/Attendance

12:00-12:30

Lunch (see menu)

12:30-1:30

Outdoor Activities

1:30-2:30

Montessori Work

2:30-3:00

PM Snack

3:00-4:00

Montessori Work

4:00-5:00

Creative Art

5:00-6:00

Individual Time & Group Activities Departure Time & Free Play

Please note that this is a guideline for this age group.

Schedule is based on the children’s needs, except for their outdoor activity.

Snack table offered between 9:15am-10:15am.

Children are offered sleep and rest throughout the day when he/she feels the need to do so.

French Program (Mondays) 3:00-3:30 pm.

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CASA ROOM 2 DAILY SCHEDULE

7:00 – 8:15 Arrival Time & Free Play AM Snack (7:45-8:15)

8:15 – 9:00 Oh Canada/Attendance Montessori Work


10:00-12:00 Montessori Work

12:00-12:30 Lunch (see menu)

12:30-2:30 Nap Time/Quiet Time (Montessori work will continue for non sleepers)

2:30-3:00 PM Snack

3:00-4:00 Montessori Work and Creative Activities


5:00-6:00 Individual Time & Group Activities Departure Time & Free Play







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CASA ROOM 3 & 4 DAILY SCHEDULE

7:00 – 8:15 Arrival Time & Free Play AM Snack (7:45-8:15)

8:15 – 9:00 Oh Canada/Attendance Montessori Work

9:00-11:00 Montessori Work


12:00-12:30 Lunch (see menu)

12:30-2:30 Nap Time/Quiet Time (Montessori work will continue for non sleepers)

2:30-3:00 PM Snack


4:00-5:00 Montessori Work and Creative Activities

5:00-6:00 Individual Time & Group Activities Departure Time & Free Play







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Hours of Operation

Tender Treasures Montessori School is open as early as 7:00 a.m. and closes at 6:00 p.m. The School will be closed for all statutory holidays (see below) and will close at 2:00pm on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

We will be closed for the following days:

Thanksgiving Day Christmas Day Boxing Day

New Year’s Day Family Day Good Friday

Easter Monday Victoria Day Canada Day

Civic Day Labour Day

2 Professional Development Days

At the beginning of September TTMS will outline our two professional development dates. These dates will be given well in advance to ensure parents have adequate time to make alternative arrangements.

Monthly School Fees

Infant Program - $ 1, 300.00

Toddler Program - $ 1, 200.00

Casa Program - $ 1, 200.00

Mid-month registration/withdrawal will be calculated using the following rates.

Infant Program - $ 63.00/day

Toddler & Casa Program - $ 60.00/day

Monthly rates are subject to change without notice and fee increases are applied yearly. There is no credit of fees.

Fees & Income Tax Statements

Tender Treasures Montessori School must receive postdated cheques dated for the 1st of each month. Failure to receive payments on the 1st of each month will result in a late fee of $20 per day.

Kindly print clearly your child’s name and classroom on the front of each cheque.

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REGISTRATION POLICY

Upon registration there is a $100 dollar non-refundable registration fee. If you are registering more than one child there is a $50 non-refundable registration fee for each additional child. ______ Initial

The security deposit is equal to a half month of fees and will be applied to your last month of care, after providing the proper one month’s written notice of withdrawal while your child is in our program for a minimum of six months. Should you choose to withdraw mid-month, you will be charged a daily rate pre-determined by Tender Treasures Montessori School which is NOT pro-rated for the remainder of your child’s time with our school. Once a one month’s written notice is provided you will be required to pay all outstanding fees upfront by cash or certified cheque ______ Initial

Should you choose not to start in the program or change your original start date after registering you will forfeit your security deposit. ______ Initial

The registration fee and security deposit are required in order to secure your child’s enrollment in the school. Payment can be made through cheque or cash ONLY. The office will require postdated cheques and the Supervisor/Designate will inform you of how many cheques are required and the amount of each cheque upon enrollment. ______ Initial

All children are unable to start in the program until all registration forms are completed and returned to the office. This includes a copy of the child’s updated immunization record. ______ Initial

TTMS reserves the right to dismiss any student or parent for behavioural misconduct. ______ Initial

An additional $100.00 dollar toilet training fee will be applicable at a monthly rate should your child not be toilet trained going into our Casa program. ______ Initial

ACCEPTED PAYMENT

Annual postdated cheques or cash are the only payment options offered at TTMS. The cheques should be payable to Tender Treasures Montessori School and should include your child’s name and classroom on the memo line. ______ Initial

There is a $200 processing fee for all NSF cheques______ Initial

Failure to receive payments on the 1st or the 15th of each month will result in a late fee of $20 per day ______ Initial

RECIEPTS

Tax receipts for tuitions received by December 31st will be issued in February of the following year. Please indicate below the name and address in which the tax receipt should be issued to. ______ Initial

A $25.00 fee will be charged for any changes requested after tax receipts are issued. ______ Initial

REFUND POLICY & PROCEDURES

1. Services will be automatically terminated if payment is in arrears for 5 business days after payment is due______ Initial

2. Enrollment is continuous until your child turns 4 years old (please see re-enrollment application). There is no reduction/refund of fees for holidays, vacation or summer break______ Initial

I have read, understood and will comply with the Registration Policy.

Parent’s Name:

Parent’s Signature:

Date:

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REENROLLMENT PROCESS FOR JK &SK STUDENTS

Please note that JK & SK (when your child turns 44 months) enrollment is limited and these spaces will be given on a first come first serve bases for each academic year. ______ Initial When your child is eligible to attend the school system, your permanent enrollment will turn into an annual registration. TTMS will provide you with enrollment forms for each given year commencing in the calendar year your child turns 44 months. ______ Initial

If you wish to enroll for JK & SK with TTMS, we will require an additional security deposit (based on the current fees at the time of reenrollment). This amount will be applied to your September fee. In the event you have confirmed enrollment and later decide to withdraw you will forfeit both security deposits. ______ Initial

Any child entering JK/SK or Gr.1 who require summer care (July and August); enrollment is based on a first come first serve basis as summer spaces are limited. Payment is due upfront. ______ Initial If your child is not returning to TTMS in September and you have committed to summer care you will be responsible for the payments until the date noted on your reenrollment form. This statement overrides the one months’ notice policy. ______ Initial Your child’s enrollment with TTMS is on a continuous basis from September to June. We do not permit or allow for any unpaid breaks in service. ______ Initial

Once you provide TTMS with your one month’s written notice of withdrawal you will be required to pay all outstanding fees upfront by cash or certified cheque. ______ Initial

Should you chose to enroll mid-month or withdrawal mid-month from our program your fee for that month will be calculated on a daily rate pre-determined by Tender Treasures Montessori School which is NOT pro-rated. ______ Initial

I have read, understood and will comply with the Reenrollment Process.

Parent’s Name:

Parent’s Signature:

Date:

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Policies and Procedures When You Can't Pick Up Your Child

If you cannot pick up your child, please arrange for someone else to do so. We require a note or a phone call from you describing who will be picking up your child. For your child's safety, we will not release your child to anyone without verbal or written consent. We will ask for photo identification before letting your child leave with anyone other than you.

If an unauthorized person arrives to pick up your child, they will be asked to wait until a parent or guardian can be reached by telephone.

No child will be allowed to enter or leave the School without an accompanying adult or designate 16 years of age or older. To request special circumstances, please talk to the Supervisor and document all special arrangements. A copy will stay in your child's file.

________ Initial

Late Pick Up of Children

The School is open until 6 p.m. If your child is not picked up you will be called. If there is no answer, we will call the emergency numbers you provided. If neither you nor the emergency caregiver has been contacted by 7 p.m., the Police and Children's Aid will be called.

You will be charged $1.00 a minute after 6:00pm which will be payable to staff on duty. Parents who are very late or consistently late may be asked to withdraw their child from the School.

________ Initial

Emergencies

It is very important that the School is able to contact you or your designated alternate in an emergency.

Please notify us immediately of any changes in your home address, employment address, and phone numbers. If for any reason you will not be at your regular place of employment, we ask you to ensure that we are able to contact you should the need arise. If necessary, please arrange for an alternate adult we can phone in case you are not available in an emergency.

________ Initial

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Security Control System

Please note that this School is equipped with an Electronic Door Control System with push button access. All parents will be provided an access code upon commencement of the program. Should a parent forget their access code, please ring the door bell, located by the entrance and someone will come and greet you at the door. Access codes are to be given to parents only. If anyone other than the parents is picking up the child, the intercom system must be used.

________ Initial

Traffic Safety & Parking

Traffic safety is a major concern to all families. The school may experience extreme traffic congestion at drop off and pick up times. When arriving or departing, please watch out for the safety of the children. Please be mindful when parking your car that you are using the designated areas and refrain from parking along the side of the building and in front of the main entrance as this may cause additional congestion in our peak hours of the day. Also, please leave the handicap parking spot accessible to those who require this spot with a visible handicap parking sign in their vehicle. All other vehicles will be towed at your expense.

________ Initial

Insurance for Assisted Devices

The School is not responsible for lost or broken assistive devices such as hearing aids, contact lenses or glasses. We ask that you have adequate replacement insurance for these items should they become misplaced or broken.

________ Initial

Inclusion Policy Tender Treasures Montessori School recognizes the importance of diversity and the integration services for children with different needs and abilities. This policy welcomes such diversity into Tender Treasures Montessori School. Based on resources, programming and services that we have available to offer children and their families with behavioural challenges and/or special needs our services at TTMS may be limited.

________ Initial

Inclement Weather Policy We make every effort to remain open during inclement weather. Our goal is to make sound decisions based on the safety of families and staff, while still meeting families’ needs for child care.

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Tender Treasures Montessori School may close, delay opening or close early at the

discretion of the Supervisor/Designate. We make every effort to communicate a

decision to close, delay opening or closing early as quickly as possible. The decision

will be on our voicemail system. If the School closes early, you will be notified by phone

and email. It is imperative that you arrange to have your child picked up as soon as

possible in the event of an early closure. There are no credits of fees.

________ Initial

Supervision of Volunteers & Students Tender Treasures Montessori School strongly believes in fostering the education of Early Childhood Educators and Volunteers. It is important to guide and teach potential childcare workers.

No child is supervised by a person under the age of 18 years.

Only employees will have direct unsupervised access to children.

Volunteers and students may not be counted in the staffing ratios.

Vulnerable Sector Screens A Vulnerable Sector Screen is required for all staff, students and volunteers over the age of 18. For the process on how to obtain a Vulnerable Sector Screen please see the Staff Hiring Policies. Although Community College students require a routine screen for school, TTMS will require a copy to keep in the students file to ensure it is completed. Policy & Procedure Review All staff, volunteers and students are required to review and sign off on the policies annually stated below prior to providing care within the school:

Program Statement

Prohibited Practices Corporal punishment Physical restraint of the child Locking the exits of the child care centre for the purpose of confining the

child Use of harsh or degrading measures or threats or use of derogatory

language directed at or used in the presence of a child Depriving the child of basic needs including food, drink, shelter, sleep, toilet

use, clothing or bedding Inflicting any bodily harm on children including making children eat or drink

against their will

Playground Policy

Fire Procedures Policy

Anaphylaxis (includes reviews of any enrolled student with an anaphylactic allergy)

Medication Policy

Serious Occurrence Policy

Review of all other policies

P a g e 30 | 40


Program Statement, Prohibited Practice’s & Staff Development Monitoring All students and volunteers will be given a program statement, prohibited practice and staff development monitoring after each two month period. This review will be the same as school staff are evaluated with. It is important to place students and volunteers on the same standard as staff. Dress Code - Policy

It is mandatory that all Casa students (30 months to 6 years) wear school uniforms. All families must adhere to the uniform policy from Monday through Thursday during the academic school year (excluding Fridays, December holidays and March break). The uniform policy we have adopted is not solely to bring us more in line with the Montessori philosophy; it is meant to reinforce a sense of self-pride in our students’ appearance and personal discipline. The uniform consists of:

Boys Girls

Collared white or navy shirt (white/navy turtle neck for the winter)

Collared white or navy shirt (white/navy turtle neck for the winter)

Navy blue sweater, vest or cardigan Navy blue sweater, vest or cardigan

Navy blue shorts or dress pants Navy blue shorts, skirt, skort and pants

Navy collared dress (if the dress does not have a collar a white/navy collared top must be worn underneath)

Navy blue socks Navy blue socks/tights

Non-scuffing black dress shoes Non-scuffing black dress shoes

TTMS does not allow for students to wear any of the following:

Running shoes, cargo pants, cargo shorts, track pants or leggings.

Each child must have a change of clothing, as even the oldest children can get dirty while playing or have toileting accidents. In the event you do not adhere to the TTMS. Dress Code Policy you may be asked to take your child home to change.

I have read and understand the Uniform Policy for Tender Treasures Montessori School.

Parent’s Name: ______________________ Signature: _______________________

Date: _____________________________

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Absences

Please notify the School by 9:00 a.m. if your child is sick or is to be absent for any length of time.

If your child is not attending the School due to illness, please advise the School`s Supervisor of the illness and the expected return date. This information will help staff to identify symptoms in other children with whom your child has come in contact.

________ Initial

Sleep and Rest Policy

The purpose of this policy is to perform periodic visual checks of sleeping/resting children by being physically present and checking for indicators of distress or unusual behaviours. TTMS will ensure that while in our care all children are provided with a high level of safety when sleeping or resting.

TTMS will consult parents in respect to a child’s sleeping arrangements at the time of:

Enrollment

Transition

Upon parents request

________ Initial

Wait List Policy

The purpose of the wait list policy is to inform families that Tender Treasures Montessori School has a policy in place which outlines that fees and/or deposits are not charged for the placement of a child’s name on a waiting list. Fees will only be charged when you are provided with a secure start date for your child. You will be required to leave a security deposit and a registration fee as outlined in our Registration Policy.

Our wait list is structured to add families in the order they put forth an interest in our program. A family is only added to the wait list in the event we are unable to provide care as per the family’s requested start date.

When a family tours TTMS they will be required to complete the Visit & Enrollment Form (see last page for sample of this form) which will provide the child's date of birth, a parent/guardian contact number and an approximate start date. This form is filed in the “Visit” binder in the month and date in which the family toured the school.

In the event a space becomes available we will contact the family from the oldest to most recent date. We will allow 48 hours for the families to contact us to secure the available spot. The Visit and Enrollment form is updated with the date and time that we informed the family of an available spot.

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In the event that we do not hear back from a family within 48 hours, TTMS will move onto the next family on the wait list. All families that we do not hear back from within 48 hours are placed at the back of the waitlist. Visited families that do not register with TTMS are kept on file for approximately 3 months from the date of visit. If the family indicates they have found other care, the Visit and Enrollment form will be discarded.

________ Initial

Sick Policy

Since CCEYA regulations require daily outdoor play for each child, it is our policy that a child who is too ill to fully participate remains at home. If a child becomes ill during the day, temporary care is provided until the parent can be contacted.

Although the CCEYA states that if a child cannot take part in outdoor activities a letter from the parent/guardian or doctor can be provided in order to have the child remain indoors. TTMS will allow for this however should there not be additional supervision available we will not be able to comply.

If a child appears to be ill the staff will notify the Supervisor and parents immediately. Obvious symptoms that indicate a child is ill are:

A fever over 100. 4˚F and low energy.

Unexplained pain.

Cold with fever, runny nose and eyes, coughing and sore throat.

Sore throat, difficulty swallowing.

Rash or red eyes.

Headache, stiff neck.

Stomach ache, diarrhea or vomiting.

Severe, itchy body or scalp.

Known or suspected contagious illness, e.g., chicken pox, mumps, and measles.

Parents/guardians must keep ill children at home to prevent the spread of illness at the School. Children must be symptom free for 24 hours before returning to the School. Please ensure you have back-up plans to accommodate any such spontaneous child care needs.

There are other times when a child is not showing signs of a definite illness, but yet not able to handle the stress of the day. In these instances, it will be the decision of the Supervisor and the Staff as to whether the child should be sent home.

Please note:

Parents will be asked to pick up their child if he/she develops a temperature of 100.4 F.

P a g e 33 | 40


Parents will also be asked to pick up their child if he/she has more than one diarrhea/vomit in one day.

In some situations a doctor’s note may be required upon return.

________ Initial

Medication Policy

Prescription Medication: Tender Treasures Montessori School staff will administer prescription medication to children where such medication is accompanied by a pharmacist’s sticker on the label of the bottle or container with clear instructions.

Medications must be in the original bottle/container. The label for prescription medication must be intact stating the child’s name, dosage, doctor’s name, date of purchase, expiry date, and duration. The storage and administration instructions should be included. Parents must also provide a measuring spoon, cup or syringe. All medications will be stored in a locked medicine box either in the classroom/kitchen refrigerator or on a shelf in the classroom out of reach of children.

A new medication form must be filled out each month in the event any prescription medication is carried over to the following month. (Example: puffers)

If a child is on prescription medication, the parent will be asked to complete and sign an authorization form with the Supervisor/Designate/Teacher.

Medication forms must be completed in the holding classroom or the student’s classroom with the Parent and Teacher.

In the event the teacher is not available the medication form must be completed with the School’s Supervisor/Designate.

Supervisor/Designate will review the form to ensure all areas are completed and the parent has signed the authorization to administer the medication

Teacher will ensure medication is properly labelled

Teacher will make 2 copies - One copy for the medicine box (MB) and the other for the Supervisor office board. The original copy will be given to the classroom teacher to ensure he/she administers and records the date and time along with his/her signature. This will ensure the medication has been administered as prescribed. This form will be marked (W) and must be posted on the classroom board under medication.

Once the medication is completed as prescribed the teacher will request for parents to sign off that the child has received the medication and return the container/bottle to the parents.

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All forms are to be returned to the Supervisor/Designate –medication box and original.

Supervisor/Designate will review the completed original administered form and file the original in the student’s file.

All other copies to be discarded by the Supervisor/Designate – Medicine box and copy from Supervisor’s office board.

Medication entering the School must remain at Tender Treasures Montessori School for the duration noted on the signed medication forms.

________ Initial

Non-Prescription Medication: For special circumstances such as fever inflicting seizures etc. parents will require a new doctor’s note every six months, if they wish to have the non-prescription medication remain in the School. This will ensure we are continuing to provide each child with the best possible care. Non-prescription medication such as cough medicines, decongestants and fever control medication (i.e. Tempra), etc. require a doctor’s note. If a fever control medication is given staff will notify the Supervisor/Designate and parents immediately and the child is required to be picked up from the School.

Non-Prescription Medication forms must be completed in the holding classroom or the student’s classroom with the parent and teacher.

See instructions above

Medical Notes must state the following:

The child’s name

The reason for the non-prescription medication

The start and end date

The name of the non-prescription medication the child will be using

The required dosage

________ Initial

Life Support Medication:

Life support medications are excluded from these rules according to their requirements unless the School has a specific note from the physician stating the dosage of medication and specific reason for medication. Examples are; asthma if a machine or puffer is required. Also, if a child is allergic to a specific food or item and gets this item in his/her system and the child needs medication until medical attention is given. All these require a note from the doctor. If a parent has provided an adrenalin kit for use by injection or as an inhaler, the instructions should include “when” and “how” to use the adrenalin. The

P a g e 35 | 40


instructions for use must be followed in an emergency, if the child has difficulty breathing, has hives or collapses. Children having health problems related to asthma or similar problems must provide a list of side effects or what to do in case of attacks, by the physician.

________ Initial

Administering Medication

If a child is on prescription and non-prescription medication, the parent will be asked to complete and sign an authorization form in the holding classroom or the student’s classroom with the parent and teacher.

No expired medication will be given.

No medication from other countries will be given.

No homeopathic medication will be given without a doctor’s note.

No prescription medication will be given if it has been prescribed to another member of the family. It must have the child’s name on the label.

If parents wish to come to the School during the day and administer medication to their children they are welcome to do so.

Medicine will only be given to the child if all the above instructions are followed.

Medication that has expired will not be given to any child. This medication must be immediately sent home.

________ Initial

Nutrition

Tender Treasures Montessori School provides all AM and PM snacks. A nutritional hot lunch is catered by Food for Tots which is based on Canada's Food Guide and reviewed by a Registered Dietician. Snacks are served in the morning and afternoon. The menu is posted and provides a good overview of your child's daily nourishment, any changes to the menu will be documented outside each classroom.

Our School is nut and pork free. However, if a child has allergies, is on a special diet or is unable to eat certain foods due to cultural practices, it is your responsibility to notify the office at registration so special arrangements can be made for your child's meals.

Meal and snack times provide opportunities for children to socialize while establishing sound eating habits and appreciation of a variety of foods.

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/food-guide-aliment/index_e.html

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MENU: Week 1

-

MONDAY

Cereal

With

2% Milk

Apricot Chicken

Drumstick with

Brown Rice, Mixed

Vegetables

2% Milk

MORNING SNACK

Infant/Toddler

8:00am-8:45am Casa

7:45am-8:15pm

LUNCH

Infant 11:00am Toddler 11:15 am

Casa 12:00pm

AFTERNOON SNACK

Infant 2:00pm

Toddler 3:00pm Casa 2:30pm

FRIDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY TUESDAY

Bagel

With

Pureed Fruits

2% Milk

Cereal

With

2% Milk

Croissant

With

Cream Cheese

2% Milk

Cereal

With

2% Milk

Whole Wheat Pita

Triangles with

Hummus

Fresh Fruit

Water

Lean Beef Burger,

Whole Wheat bun,

Relish, Diced Carrots

2% Milk

Cinnamon & Raisin

Rice Pudding

With

Fresh Fruit

Water

Meat Balls

With

Pasta

Steamed Peas

2% Milk

Apple Bar

With

Fresh Fruit

Water

Beef Ravioli

With

Mixed Vegetables

2% Milk

Crackers

With

Cheese Cubes

Fresh Fruit

Water

Fish & Vegetable Soup

With

Garlic Pitta Triangle

2% Milk

Granola Bar

With

Fresh Fruit

Water

Infant: Arrowroot

cookies

Menu is approved by a Registered Dietitian

Please see the allergy guide for the substitution meals for diets that are dairy free, gluten free, Egg free, Vegetarian, Vegan and Halal. Please note that Food for Tots operates a facility that is Nut free, Pork free and Shellfish free at all times.

Short Forms: WW = Whole Wheat WG = Whole Grain MG = Multi Grain GF = Gluten Free

Fresh Fruit will vary and include: apple, banana, oranges, grapes, pears, strawberries, melons (watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew), plums, nectarines, mango and vegetables may vary due to seasonal availability

All Lunches are Trans-fat-free (except for naturally occurring Tran’s fats).

FOOD FOR TOTS PROVIDES LUNCHES ONLY

http://www.fft.ca/

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Allergies

Please note that our School is peanut/nut and pork free.

It is important to let staff and the Supervisor/Designate know of all allergies your child may have and what reactions to expect. Although we cannot change the entire environment of the School because of allergies, every effort possible will be made to minimize contact with any offending substances.

TTMS accepts outside cakes/cupcakes for birthday celebrations however cakes must be purchased with a peanut/nut free logo, have all ingredients visible on the packaging and a clear expiry date. We do not accept home baked goods of any sort nor do we accept loot bags of any kind. Please ensure all birthday cakes/cupcakes are brought to the office to be signed in. In the event the office is closed please see your child’s classroom teacher.

Children with anaphylaxis allergies will be required to have Individual Plans which are to be completed by parents/guardians. The following information is necessary:

Recent picture of the child

Names of allergens

Dosage of Epinephrine required

2 Emergency contacts

List of signs and symptoms

Signature of the child’s physician and parent/guardian

*One EpiPen is required to be kept at the school at all times*

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Serious Occurrence Reporting/Notification Forms

All licensed child care providers are required to post information in the facility to inform

parents of any Serious Occurrences that may arise. A serious occurrence may consist

of:

Life threatening injury or illness to a child,

The death of a child who receives care, whether it occurs on or off the premises,

An incident where a child who is receiving care goes missing or is temporarily unsupervised,

An unplanned disruption of the normal operations that poses a risk to the health, safety or wellbeing of children receiving child care,

Abuse, neglect or an allegation of abuse or neglect of a child while receiving child care.

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All licensed Child Care Centres are already required to report serious occurrences to the Ministry of Education. In addition Centres are now required to complete and post on a visible parent communication board a Serious Occurrence Notification Form. This form will include the date of the S.O., the type of S.O., a full description of the situation and any action taken. The School is also responsible to provide updates on the situation until a solution is reached. When completing these forms the School must ensure complete confidentiality towards all parties involved. This form must be posted for 10 days following the S.O including weekends. Behaviour Management and Discharge Policy

If a child exhibits behaviour that is considered to be inappropriate, the parents will be notified of the situation. If the behaviour becomes more serious, a meeting will be held with the parents to discuss and set a timeframe for the situation to be resolved. If the behaviour still persists and all avenues have been exhausted then at this point Tender Treasures Montessori School reserves the right to dismiss the child from our school.

If any parent threatens, miss treats any staff/student or does not adhere to the policies of the School; Tender Treasures Montessori School has grounds to immediately dismiss your child from the program.

There will be no credit of that month’s fee upon termination of services or refund of deposit. All other postdated cheques on hand will be returned.

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Fire Drills and Evacuations

Fire drills are held monthly and instructions are posted in each room. In the event that the children and staff need to leave the School due to a safety concern, the School has a designated close-by emergency evacuation site. The evacuation site is located in the parking lot near the front entrance of the Woodbridge Bowl at 191 Marycroft Ave., Woodbridge, Marycroft and Hwy. 7.

In the event of bad weather, children and staff relocate to the indoor evacuation site located at Arcadia Academy of Music, 205 Marycroft Ave., Unit 6, Woodbridge ON, Marycroft Ave. & Hwy. 7, next to the Swiss Chalet Restaurant. Tel: 905-851-8631.

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Privacy Act Policy

Information collected by Tender Treasures Montessori School (enrollment packages, immunization info, emergency contacts etc.) is information required by Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education and is kept on file in the main office with the exception of 1 emergency card that is the classroom in the emergency bag. This information is available to the Supervisor and staff in case of an emergency. Staff at Tender Treasures Montessori School have signed a confidentiality policy in which it states that any information pertaining to a child or family at the school is to remain confidential. We will exercise our best efforts to ensure that all information is updated and accurate. TTMS. reserves the right to modify or supplement the Privacy Policy at any time. Any changes made will be posted on our website and make the revised policy and changes available upon request.

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CONSENT FORM FOR VIDEO AND PHOTOGRAPHS

Re:________________________________________________________

Child’s Full Name

I hereby give permission for Tender Treasures Montessori School to use photographs and videos in any daycare related newsletters, bulletin boards, and media advertising (website). Individual identities (Names) of all children will be kept strictly confidential. ____________________________________ Parent Signature ____________________________________ Date

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Parent Concerns/Comments In order to maintain a high level of customer service we welcome any and all concerns or comments. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to approach the School Supervisor. If for any reason the Supervisor is unable to rectify the comment or concern the Owner(s) will be informed immediately. The Owner(s) and School Supervisor will meet with the parent/guardian to attempt to resolve the situation. If for any reason a concern/comment cannot be resolved the School Supervisor will contact the School’s Ministry of Education Advisor for guidance.

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THIS POLICY AND PROCEDURE HANDBOOK IS A GUIDELINE AND THE

SCHOOL WILL USE IT’S JUDGEMENT AND DISCRESION WITH MAKING

NECESSARY CHANGES. THE SCHOOL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO APPLY OR

CHANGE THESE POLICIES TO ANY CIRCUMSTANCE THAT THE SCHOOL

FEELS HAS JUST CAUSE. UPON CHANGES TO THIS HANDBOOK TTMS WILL

EMAIL ALL PARENTS AND UP TO DATE COPY. THE UPDATED PARENT

HANDBOOK AND THE POLICIES IT CONTAINS WILL SUPERSEED ANY

PREVIOUS HANBOOKS AND/OR PREVIOUSLY SIGNED DOCUMENTS.

PARENT HANDBOOK - Tender Treasurestendertreasures.ca/.../01/Parent-Handbook-2017-18.pdf · The...

Documents

Transcript of PARENT HANDBOOK - Tender Treasurestendertreasures.ca/.../01/Parent-Handbook-2017-18.pdf · The...