Policies & Procedures
Arrival & Departure
- Arrival
- When you arrive, take your child into the classroom and speak to the person in charge. When you pick up your child, let the teacher know that you are leaving. If someone we do not know is to pick up your child, please inform the teacher. This person must be listed as authorized to pick-up this child on the enrollment paperwork. Remind the authorized person that we may ask for identification to insure your child's safety. Also, if your emergency contacts or authorized pick-up persons should change, please fill out a Change of Information Form (PDF).
- During arrival it is very important to set up a routine that your family can follow every day. This provides your child with a sense of security. We recommend that you walk your child into the room, greet the teachers and friends, help put away items in the cubby, and assist your child in selecting a toy or joining an activity. When it is time to go, tell your child you are leaving and say good-bye. If your child is having difficulty separating, signal a teacher for assistance. If your child is upset when you leave, feel free to call us later and we will let you know how he or she is doing.
- Blue Door Arrival
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Between 7:00 am - 8 am, infants and toddlers are together as staff arrive. Staff are quite busy caring for the children present. When you arrive, please check your child's diaper and if necessary, change it in the bathroom before your child enters play. (Diaper changing procedures are posted in the bathroom. Please follow these procedures for the health and safety of all the children.)
Be sure to sign-in, complete your child's daily chart, medication forms, and help your child become involved in play. This allows our program to maintain appropriate ratio in the classroom and to assist children with separation and play.
- Departure
- During departure it is also important to follow a set routine. We recommend that when you arrive, greet your child and the teachers, and let your child know how much time he or she has to wrap up the project or activity. While your child is finishing up, it is a good time to talk with the teachers to discuss your child's day. On the way out, check your child's mailbox. Be sure and say good-bye to your child's teachers so that they know you are leaving.
- Once you have reunited with your child and begun departure, the CDL is no longer responsible. Please do not let your child run off ahead of you inside or outside of the building.
- Blue Door Departure
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When you arrive for departure, after you greet your child be sure to sign out and pick up your child's daily information sheet. This provides details of how your child ate, slept, etc. throughout the day.
While you gather up belongings, give your child enough time to wrap up his or her play. Also, make time to chat with your child's teacher about what your child did that day.
While it is possible to provide this information on the daily information sheet, we would rather talk to you about your child's play activities and development in person. As always, be sure and follow all safety guidelines when exiting from the building.
Authorized Pick-Up
Parents should inform the staff of persons other than themselves who will be bringing or coming to get their child. Inform these persons of the responsibilities involved, such as checking the child in and out, checking supplies, etc.
If another person frequently has this responsibility, they should be listed on the emergency information as authorized to pick up the child. This individual should also read the handbook so they understand all aspects of the program.
Cell Phone Use Policy (revised 11/21/08)
CDL Classrooms are a CELL PHONE FREE ENVIORNMENT. The CDL classrooms and activity areas are a designated Cell Phone Free Environment. It is important that children receive the full attention of parents, teachers, staff and students while attending the CDL. Students and part time staff will keep personal cell phones turned off or sound off and put in a separate area (purse, back-pack etc., not on your person) while in the classrooms. Personal text messaging or listening to phone messages or phone calls is not permitted (even during nap time) while on duty with the children. Teachers will bring cell phones for emergency and safety use only while on field trips, walks, van runs and evacuation drills. CDL Instructors and Assistant Instructors may carry their cell phone in the classroom with the sound off at their professional discretion; however, the use of the cell phones may not interfere with the day-to-day supervision and interaction with children and families. Instructors must either wait until their break or lunch or make sure the classroom is covered before stepping out of the classroom to answer a call or text message. Exceptions will be made in cases of personal emergencies only as permitted by the classroom Instructor or the CDL Director.
Changing Programs
Blue Door Room children may pass from the infant program to the toddler program as space is available. No guarantee can be given that these children will then be placed in the preschool program once they've reached the age limit of the toddler program. Priority will be given to these children for preschool enrollment, however, and placement will be made as space is available.
Child Care Fee Assistance
The following procedures pertain to the application process for CDL childcare fee assistance.
- Fees are set in January of each year for the upcoming academic year, which begins September 1 and ends August 31 of the following year. Parents have until March to notify the CDL if their child will be reenrolling.
- Applications for fee assistance are due to the CDL offices in 31 Stanley Hall by the re-enrollment deadline. Applications received after the re-enrollment deadline may or may not be considered for assistance. In some cases short-term assistance may be offered.
- Incomplete applications will not be considered. Documentation verifying income and expenses must be submitted with the application.
- Review of applications will begin the day after the re-enrollment deadline. Applicants need not inquire about the status of applications. However, calls to confirm receipt of materials are welcome. Applicants will be notified of the decision through confirmation letters. Adequate time will be provided for re-enrollment decisions.
- To accept assistance and reenroll your child(ren), parents must sign and return the fee assistance notification letter by the confirmation deadline.
- A payment plan contract will prepared. The contract will need to be signed and returned, any contracts not returned will void any childcare fee assistance.
- If the family withdraws the child(ren) before completion of the plan term, the outstanding balance will be considered due and payable.
Application for Child Care Fee Assistance (PDF)
Child Care Fees
Clothing & Supplies
On your child's first day in Blue Door Room please bring these non-returnable items:
- One fitted crib sheet (toddlers) or one fitted port-a crib sheet (infants)
- One receiving blanket
- One medium or large plastic bib (toddler) or one small cloth bib (infants)
- One box Kleenex
- One roll Viva or Bounty paper towels
- One package of unscented baby wipes
- Clean plastic grocery bags
Other supplies to provide on an ongoing basis:
- Adequate supply of disposable diapers and/or training pants
- One or more complete changes of clothing (appropriate for season/time of the year)
- Appropriate outdoor apparel (e.g., hats, mittens, warm jackets, shoes, etc.)
- Any creams, wipes, etc. used for diapering
- Infants: Plastic bottles (parents are asked to bring clean bottles and take home used bottles daily)
- Infants: Breast milk (provision can be made for storing frozen, labeled, and dated breast milk)
- Pacifiers (if needed)
- Any necessary food substitutions
Please label all items.
Diapering supplies should be placed on your child's shelf in the bathroom. Infant bottles, supplies, etc. should be placed in your child's personal "cubby" or in the refrigerator. Please check these areas each day to see that your child has adequate supplies for the following day. We do not have extra diapers, bottles, or pacifiers, and we have limited supplies of spare clothes.
Daily Information Sheets
Daily information sheets provide the parents and staff members with information as to what the child has done each day. Parents are asked to fill out a daily sheet when the child arrives, giving any specific instructions for the day, and to inform us about your child's previous evening and current morning.
Staff members will fill out the bottom half of the sheet during the day as they care for the child. Parents should take this sheet with them to see what their child has done during the day.
Discipline Policy
One goal of the CDL is to help children develop a positive self-image. We hope to encourage children to be self-directed and to exhibit self-control.
In order to do this, children need the opportunity to build a healthy self-concept (knowing who one is as a person, knowing one's talents, strengths, and limitations). This includes giving children respectful, but honest feedback, acknowledging their accomplishments, helping them with their limitations, and helping them to realize their own limitations so they can begin to work on them.
Young children, due to their developmental age, are not capable of understanding the ramifications of many of their behaviors; therefore they need to be encouraged to make good choices and to be prevented from harming themselves and/or others. This can best be accomplished through close supervision, gentle guidance, and most importantly, redirection.
Children need to learn to identify and express their feelings. However, often this requires the caregiver to verbalize these feelings for them. For example, if we see a child about to hit another child for taking a toy away, we will prevent that child from hitting the other saying, "That really made you angry when Billy took your toy, you wanted to hit him. Instead, tell him 'it's mine, I'm playing with it.'" This way, we hope to prevent one child from hurting another and at the same time help that child to learn to identify feelings and verbalize expectations.
Another important disciplinary approach is to remember that small children are very egocentric and therefore are not yet capable of understanding the concept of sharing and taking turns. Therefore, it is our responsibility to lend guidance through redirection to other activities when conflict situations occur.
Caring for young children requires a lot of patience, as they often need to be reminded about safety rules over and over again. Each ground rule will be stated clearly and precisely and then the child will be helped to follow the rule by showing other acceptable, safe activities. We will most often state directions in a positive manner as young children have a hard time comprehending the words "don't" or "no."
With older preschoolers and school-age children the emphasis shifts toward teaching children how to solve their own problems and conflict resolution.
Discipline Strategies Used by CDL Staff and Students:
- Maintaining realistic expectations of children.
- Providing clear and simple limits.
- Planning an environment that facilitates a caring atmosphere.
- Keeping children busy to prevent problems from occurring in the first place.
- Modeling appropriate behaviors.
- Redirecting inappropriate behaviors toward desired outcomes.
- Giving children choices between two appropriate alternatives.
- Encouraging children to work together to solve problems.
- Encouraging children to use their words to solve problems or to elicit peer cooperation.
- Providing logical and natural consequences for children's actions.
- Removing children from the situation until they are able to discuss the problem and calm down.
- Conflict resolution (for older preschoolers and school-age children).
Dropping Enrollment
Once a child is enrolled in the program, parents are required to notify the CDL director three weeks in advance if a child is to be dropped from the program.
Emergency Procedures
- Bring daily attendance, emergency directory, and fanny pack to assigned area.
- Account for all children.
- Remain in location until sirens stop.
- Questions-call the help desk: 882-8211, press 3 to get a person on the line.
Fire Evacuation - outside
- Blue Door: Upper level of play yard - placed in cribs
- Yellow Door: Upper level of play yard.
- Green Door: Grassy area on east side of Gentry Hall.
- Red Door: Upper level of play yard.
Fire
- If fire starts in Stanley Hall - the coordinated fire alarm system will sound and the fire department will be contacted immediately.
- If there is a minor fire and no risks are involved, one person gets the fire extinguisher (east or west hall or kitchen).
Evacuation
- Children leave building through play yard doors to play yard.
- Administrative staff takes out office copy of EMERGENCY DIRECTORY as back-up.
- Secretary exits through blue door. Cook exists through yellow door (goes through bathroom and Red Door and assist with children in bathroom).
- If necessary, leave the play yard and go to the basement of Memorial Union which is where parents can pick up their children.
- Secretary will put up signs on doors for parent notification and will let teachers know when children can return to the building.
Earthquake or Tornado
Go to these locations for these emergencies:
- Blue Door Infants: Assessment Room
- Blue Door Toddlers: Library
- Yellow Door: Staff Lounge
- Green Door: Ramp between Gwynn and Stanley
- Red Door: CDL Main Office
Tornado
- Moving to interior corridors away from windows.
- Have children in position covering their heads.
- If outdoors, like flat in the nearest depression. If there is time, move away from the path of the tornado at a right angle.
Earthquake
- Stay indoors. Take cover under sturdy furniture, in door ways, halls, or against walls. Stay away from glass windows.
- Avoid running through or near buildings where there maybe falling debris due to the possibility of afterschocks.
- After tremors have stopped, stay away from and do not go inside damaged buildings and structures and keep a safe distance from utility wires.
Enrollment Policies & Procedures
See Enrollment Policies & Procedures.
Family Arrangements
The CDL recognizes that all families are not structured similarly and that some families may live apart due to a variety of circumstances.
The CDL teachers and staff are sensitive to the needs of children in these situations and will work to support the entire family. We are happy to provide duplicate information in the child's mailbox to accommodate both parents' need for information.
If information is needed by the CDL staff regarding custody, child pick-ups, etc., please provide us with the formal paperwork.
Unless we have the appropriate paperwork, we cannot keep a child's biological mother and or father from picking up his or her child.
When we have the appropriate paperwork and a parent tries to pick up the child in a manner that is inconsistent with the legal documents, we will call the other parent immediately and we will then phone the police. We will ask that the police mediate the situation and determine who is allowed to take the child home.
Field Trips
Parents give permission for children to attend field trips during enrollment and this permission is renewed twice each year: in February (Re-Enrollment and Update Form) and during August (Update Form and new handbooks).
Each room plans its own field trips and parents are informed of each trip. We use the CDL vans and drivers with specific van driver training for most trips and follow stringent safety procedures; however, sometimes we may need parents to help drive their own vehicle. In these situations, volunteer parent drivers will sign a transportation statement and parents will be informed of the transportation arrangements.
If you do not wish for your child to attend an outing, please make alternative child care arrangements. Parents are always welcome to join the class on field trips. We will ask that parents join us on water field trips for safety purposes.
A car phone is permanently available in a van and a cell phone is available for walking trips, long-distance trips and otherwise as needed.
Parents will be informed in advance of all long-distance (highway) field trips. Teachers will use their professional judgment whether or not to continue a planned field trip when bad weather surfaces. Teachers will also "call and check in" during long-distance trips to alert the office staff that they have arrived safely and when they plan to depart. Booster/car seats are in both CDL vans for all children less than 80 pounds.
Food & Allergy Policy
- Food Policy
- The CDL participates in the USDA food program and children are served an approved breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack. Menus are available online and are posted on the kitchen door and in each room.
- Two sets of menus (summer and winter) have been developed. Menu plans are rotated every six weeks. If your child has different dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, lactose intolerant), food will need to be sent with the child on a daily basis - talk to the teacher and director. We will also do cooking activities in the lab to try new taste-treats.
- Your child will be encouraged to sample all foods served, but will never be forced to eat. If for any reason your child cannot eat a certain food, please inform the center in writing and discuss this issue with your child's teachers. The CDL does not serve pork products (due to religious beliefs) or peanut butter (due to allergies).
- If your child is not here by 10 a.m., but will be here for lunch - please call your child's teachers so that we have a correct lunch count. Also, if you are planning on joining your child for lunch, please let us know by 10 am so that our cook can prepare the correct amount of food.
- Allergy Policy
- The CDL will provide food substitutes to the best of our ability. The CDL will always be able to provide alternative beverages (soymilk, calcium fortified juice, or water). We will also always be able to provide a fruit and a vegetable. You may occasionally have to substitute the main dish. Some parents bring in a basket of foods that can be easily prepared or microwaved that we can use as substitutes when needed.
Grievance Procedure
The faculty and staff at the CDL are committed to maintaining a safe and productive atmosphere for children to grow and learn. Parents are encouraged to speak with classroom teachers regarding minor issues and routine concerns. In the event the parent(s) feels the issue is not being adequately addressed or has become a source of conflict, the following grievance procedure should be consulted in order to achieve an appropriate resolution.
Level 1
When the problem arises, parents should speak directly with their child’s head teacher. Concerns expressed to assistant teachers will be forwarded to the head teacher. If you wish to have a private conversation, please ask to schedule a parent-teacher conference. The CDL teachers will make efforts to respond to the complaint and resolve the conflict.
Level 2
If a parent feels the matter is not resolved, he or she may bring the concerns to the CDL Director. Parents should be prepared to provide a full account of the situation and communication with their child’s head teacher. The Director will take reasonable steps to review parent and instructor accounts of the issue and resolve the conflict. When necessary, the Director may call a conference where the parents and head teacher can meet with the Director to discuss a resolution. In any event, the Director will respond to the parent within ten (10) working days from the date the grievance was submitted to administration.
Level 3
In the event the matter is not resolved at the CDL administration level, the parent may submit a written account of all events to the Chair of the Department of Human Development and Family Studies. This statement must be submitted within ten (10) working days from the final decision of the CDL Director. The Department Chair will make a reasonable effort to respond to the parent and resolve the matter.
Download Grievance Procedure Flow Chart
Health Policy
Each child must have a current health form with immunization history signed by a physician on file at the CDL.
Please notify the teacher if your child has any allergies (especially food allergies).
- Illness Policy
- The Child Development Laboratory promotes the protection of well children by preventing illness whenever possible. We encourage children to practice and develop good hand washing habits to prevent the spread of germs. We encourage an understanding of good nutrition, exercise and proper rest for the development of healthy bodies. Other practices include the procedures for the onset of illness symptoms at home or at school.
- At Home
- If your child exhibits any of the symptoms listed below at home, keep your child home until your child is well and contamination of others is not a concern. Please notify the center of an absence and the identified symptoms so we will not expect your child that day and staff can be alert to possible contagions.
- At School
- When the presence of the child poses a possible risk of spreading infection to other children, we will remove the child from the classroom. The child will remain with an appropriate staff person, until the parent/guardian can be notified and the child is picked up. Typically the child will remain in the main office or the director's office. If the child is distraught the classroom teacher may stay with the child if classroom ratios are met. It is important that the parent/guardian respond in a timely manner in picking up their child to ensure the continued sick child care needed and the prevention of infection to other children and staff. The following guidelines serve as a framework of specific symptoms for which the child will be evaluated for temporary exclusion.
- Fever
- If a temperature reading is (38 C), 100.4 F or higher the child will be removed from the classroom and a staff member will keep your child comfortable until you are notified and take your child home. Prompt pick up is expected.
- Other physical or behavioral symptoms where the child will be considered for exclusion from school may include but not limited to:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Unidentified Rash - If a child is sent home with an unidentified skin condition, the child may not return without a physician's note indicating that there is no danger of contamination to other children.
- Listless or unable to participate in normal daily activities
- Upper respiratory complications
- Unexplained change in behavior and or appearance
- If your child has been sent home or onset of symptoms occurred at home, it is important that your child not return to school until child has been symptom free for at least 24 hours or a doctor's note indicating child's wellness and not in danger of contaminating others. It is important that the child is free of fever for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.
- Exposure Notification
- In the event of a known exposure of a communicable disease, parents and staff will be notified in writing so an alert to symptoms and follow-up care may occur.
- Medication Authorization
- All medication will be given to the child only with the dated, written permission of the parent(s) stating the length of time the medication may be given.
- Prescription medication shall be in the original container and labeled with the child's name, instruction for administration, including the times and amounts for dosages and the physician's name. This may include sample medication provided by the physician.
- All nonprescription medication shall be in the original container and labeled by the parent(s) with the child's name, and instructions for administration, including the times and amounts for dosages.
- Medication Authorization forms are available for short-term (two weeks or less) and long-term (daily medications). If the CDL will be administering medication daily or over a long period of time, a physician's signature is recommended. Parents must also update the form monthly by initialing and dating the form. Extra forms are available in the CDL Office.
- Accident and Illness Procedures
- If a child is injured or becomes ill after arriving at school, the parent will be called. The Parent Information Sheet requires home, office, and emergency phone numbers. It is the parent's responsibility to update the family's emergency contact numbers. If we cannot reach a parent, the emergency contact will be phoned.
- If a child needs immediate medical attention, the teacher will call 911. Then the parent or the child's physician will be called. If we cannot reach the parent, the emergency contact will be phoned. A teacher who witnessed the emergency situation will accompany the child to the hospital, bringing records and all parent permission forms.
- Parents will be notified of all known minor injuries or possible illnesses.
History
The MU Child Development Lab (CDL) started well over 60 years ago. It began as a part-day program for two-five year-olds and shortly after expanded to a full-day program, adding an infant/toddler program.
The program encourages and supports the development of each child and provides opportunities for self-exploration and discovery. An assumption of the program is that the children are active and curious; it is a goal to provide learning experiences designed to stimulate the child's creative learning abilities.
The overall development (cognitive, social, emotional, physical) of the child is considered and planned for through a variety of activities. One important objective is to learn the needs of each individual child in the program and to plan for the successful fulfillment of those needs.
Positive development of the child's image of self is of prime importance and is a priority in all aspects of program planning. The young child is also a member of a family. Therefore, it is important to work with the family in creating the best possible environment for the child while at the lab.
CDL is part of the department of Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS). It is located within the department near faculty offices and is used as a demonstration site for college students. Each classroom is equipped with a private observation booth that lines the length of the classroom. Inside the observation booth one-way mirrors allow observers to see the entire classroom, and headsets and microphones allow observers to hear the children, students, and teachers interacting.
Faculty and students from HDFS, as well as other departments, may request to involve the children and their parents as research participants. There is one other child care facility on campus that is for parents who are students, but there is no relationship between the two facilities.
Every undergraduate in Human Development and Family Studies and Early Childhood Education must take at least one Child Development Lab course. Students in other departments are allowed to enroll in the lab course, but are not required. The courses vary from working five hours per week to 20 hours per week in the lab. In addition, college seniors work in a community child care program 20 hours per week for their final student-teaching experience.
The lab is primarily funded by parent fees, but the University provides the facility, maintenance work, custodial services, and salaries for the Director and the three instructors who teach the college courses. Families with low-incomes receive support via the Department of Social Services child care subsidy program. The lab also offers a small scholarship fund to assist families in crisis.
Hours of Operation
The CDL is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6 pm. Licensing regulations mandate that children should not be in child care for more than 10 hours. However, a nine-hour day or less is strongly recommended for infants and toddlers in group settings.
Ten hours in child care is a very long day, especially for infants and toddlers. In addition, a nine-hour day allows you, the parent, the opportunity to see the same teachers at arrival and departure. Our staff work between an eight- or nine-hour day maximum. Parent cooperation is requested in prompt arrival and departure.
Inclement Weather
CDL Severe Weather Closing Policy (rev. 11.21.11) The MU Child Development Laboratory recognizes the important service provided to the University of Missouri campus and community families and students. The CDL will make every effort to remain open during adverse weather. Families are not obligated to bring their child to the CDL if at anytime there is uncertainty about travel safety, however no tuition adjustments will be made.
CDL will remain open if:
- The University of Missouri classes are in session.
- Adult-to-child ratios can be met as required by the State Licensure. The CDL may have to make accommodations with the classrooms if significant numbers of staff attendance is delayed or restricted due to severe weather conditions. Therefore, if at any time more children arrive than the required staff availability, a parent may be asked to stay with their child until staff accommodations can be met.
CDL will be closed if:
- The University of Missouri cancels classes.
- Adult-to-child ratios are unable to be met as required by the State Licensure. The CDL Director and the CDL Coordinator will confer and determine if required adult-to-child ratio cannot be met. The Director will close the school and inform families of the closure over the parent list-serve. The Director will contact the Administrative Assistant. The Administrative Assistant will record the closing on the main office message machine (882-4318). The Director will call the Instructors and Administrative Staff and cook. Instructors will contact their classroom team. The CDL Coordinator will send an e-mail to all part-time staff.
CDL early dismissal:
- Determined by the Director before 12:30 pm with a mandatory pick-up before 4:00 pm.
Communication:The Director will put out an "Early Dismissal Alert" over the parent list-serve. Families are expected to reply to the e-mail or call the main office before 2:00 pm. If we have not heard a reply or reached parents by 2:00 pm, we will start calling the family emergency contact numbers. If a child is not picked up by 4:00 pm parents will be charged a late fee as denoted in the CDL Late Pick-up Policy. If it is conducive, families are encouraged to come before 4:00 pm so we may release staff as early as possible.
If Columbia Public Schools close:
- The CDL will automatically delay opening to 8:30 am, unless the Director had already determined to close the CDL for the day. (see CDL closing above)
- Breakfast menu will automatically change to cold cereal, milk and juice. Paper bowls and plastic ware will be used in place of dining ware.
The Director will send out CDL closings or early dismissals over the CDL Parent List-serve.
If there is any question about any CDL weather related closings you may call the main office number (573-882-4318) by 6:30 am for CDL cancelation updates.
Indoor/Outdoor Play
We believe that children learn best through play and hands-on experiences. We also believe that the outdoors is an extension of the indoor classroom. We typically go outside twice each day.
Toys, materials and activities are also available outdoors to enhance the children's play experience. If your child is not well enough to play outdoors, he or she is not well enough to attend the CDL.
Outdoor Temperature Policy
Outdoor play is an important part of our daily curriculum, as weather permits. It is important for parents to provide the appropriate clothing and outerwear for the weather conditions (e.g., coat, snowpants, boots, gloves, etc.). The CDL has a few extra hats and mittens but not enough for everyone.
The buildings and shade trees often shelter our playground from the cold wind and hot sun. The staff members use the following general guidelines when determining whether to go outside:
Winter
- If temperatures fall below 10 F (30 F for Infants-Toddlers), staff will keep children indoors. As temperatures approach 10 F staff will call time and temperature to monitor the latest weather conditions. Staff will also check our playground wind factor.
- Typically, staff members wait until later in the day to take the children outside when temperatures are warmer. Children spend a shorter amount of time outside in cold temperatures and are monitored closely. Please make sure your children are dressed appropriately for outdoor play.
Summer
- As temperatures/heat index approach 100 F (95 F for Infants-Toddlers), staff will call "time and temperature" to monitor the latest temperature and weather conditions. Children often participate in water play activities outside in shady areas of the playground.
- Children are also encouraged to get plenty of drinks to replenish body fluids. Parents are encouraged to provide sunscreen. Typically, the length of time spent outside is reduced and often the children wait to go outside until late in the day or early morning when the sun is less intense.
Please note that if your child is not well enough to participate in outdoor play, he or she is not well enough to attend the CDL.
Late Pick-Up and Fee Policy: revised 6/4/12
PURPOSE: To maintain the integrity of the program and to respect the hours of operation of the program, the following policy has been put into place.
POLICY: The CDL closes at 6:00pm. All children are expected to be picked up by a parent or authorized guardian by 6:00pm. If a parent/guardian arrives after 6:00pm., families will be charged a designated late fee. There will be no exceptions or warnings. If a parent/guardian is late for whatever reason (flat tire, heavy traffic, weather conditions etc.) a late charge will be issued. A "no exceptions" policy makes it easier to apply the late policy to everyone consistently and fairly.
LATE PICK-UP PROCEDURE:
- The Late Pick-up Policy will be reviewed at Parent Orientation and a copy of the policy will be included in the Orientation Packet.
- If you know you are running late, please contact your child’s classroom and let them know the anticipated time of pick-up. It is helpful for teachers to know in advance so they can help your child adjust to the late departure. It also helps the teacher plan for staff coverage during the minutes the child is remaining in the classroom. If there is more than one child remaining at the CDL past 6:00pm we may combine the remaining children to one classroom. If a child is moved to a different classroom a note will be posted on the outside of the child’s classroom door indicating the location of pick-up. The child’s belongings will be with the child at the pick-up point.
- If a parent has not contacted the CDL by 6:05, the teacher will contact the parent(s)/guardians. If we are not able to reach the parent(s), we will call from the child’s authorized emergency contact list. If we are unable to reach anyone and the child has not been picked up by 6:45 we will call Child Protective Services. (1-800-392-3738 ext. 211) and MU Police Department (882-7201).
- Parent must sign out their child with the accurate time of pick-up. Pick-up time is determined from the classroom clock setting.
- The teacher assigned to supervise the remaining child(ren) will fill out the left side of the Late-Pickup Report and the parent/guardian will sign the report. The teacher will give the top portion of the policy to the parent/guardian and the bottom portion; The Late Pick-up Report, will be placed in the CDL Black Box outside of the CDL main office.
- The Administrative Assistant will include the late fee(s) in the next month’s tuition statement. Late fee payments are expected with the next month’s tuition payment.
- If you are having consistent difficulties in picking up your child by 6:00 pm please talk to your child’s teacher or the CDL Director to help you find resources or assist to find solutions for prompt departure. Consistent late pick-ups without significant communication may lead to dismissal from the program.
LATE PICK-UP POLICY FEE AND PROCEDURE:
Within the first 5 minutes there is an automatic $10 late fee. After 5 minutes there is an additional dollar per minute added. Examples; if a child is picked up two minutes late it is a $10 late fee. If a parent/guardian arrives at 6:10 there is a $15 late charge. (Only one charge per family of multiple children)
Download Late Pick-Up Report (PDF)
Medicine Chart
Parents are asked to supply the requested information each day that your child is to receive any medication while at the MU Child Development Lab. Medicine will be given only with written permission of the parent on the medication chart. Long-term medications (ie breathing treatments) also require doctor authorization.
Medication not requiring refrigeration should be given to your child's teacher. Information on medication should be given verbally to the teacher as well as written on the daily information and medication charts.
All medications should be clearly labeled with child's name, dosage, etc. Please take the medication home when your child is no longer using the medication.
Multicultural Environment
The CDL is an institution that welcomes and encourages diversity in its population and programs. We welcome all families regardless of race, religion, cultural heritage, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status or differing ability.
We believe that our appreciation of diversity is immersed in anti-bias curriculum in daily planning, issues addressed, tolerance, class meetings, and involving families to share their cultures.
Dolls, books, posters and food also provide the children with a multicultural, anti-bias perspective but it is the daily discussions, activities and experiences that make a program diverse.
We incorporate multicultural materials when appropriate within the curriculum so it fits in naturally with what we are doing rather than standing out as "different."
Cultural, ethnic, ability, gender and age diversity are addressed directly as issues come up and as curriculum is planned. The natural and timely inclusion of multicultural materials and activities provide children with a meaningful and realistic experience that cannot be achieved by having token props accessible in certain areas.
We feel that providing a multicultural and diverse environment is best met by enrolling children from many different countries, different ethnic backgrounds, different socio-economic levels, a variety of ages, and children with special needs.
MU Student Involvement
Practicum students enrolled in Child Development Programs are assigned to weekly lab hours during the semester. Students participate in activities and routines as they learn how to care for young children in a supervised setting. They are also responsible for observing the development of a child in their lab placement.
Students are encouraged to get acquainted with the parents of their target child. They may ask you questions or write notes to you about your child. Occasionally we have students from other classes observe and participate with the children. You will be informed of any research projects or other events needing your attention or awareness. Student pictures are displayed in the room.
Observation and Class Project Policies and Confidentiality Statement
The Child Development Lab (CDL) is pleased to cooperate with requests for observations and class projects. These policies have been developed to ensure the privacy of the children, families and teachers at the University of Missouri-Columbia CDL. All instructors or students who conduct observations or class projects are asked to read and adhere to the following policies:
- All University students must be enrolled in a course sponsored by a faculty member.
- All community groups must have a sponsor who will be responsible for the group while observing at the CDL.
- No food, drink or talking is allowed in the observation booths. Please see Observation Guidelines for more information.
- A Class Project Request or Student Project Request should be submitted to the administration at least one week prior to the start date for approval.
- Class/Student Project Requests will be evaluated and approved based on the appropriateness of the project, the degree of consistency with the CDL philosophy, the level of intrusiveness, and the provisions for confidentiality.
- The Class/Student Project Request will be discussed with certain members of the teaching staff and approved by the CDL director, a laboratory instructor, and an assistant instructor.
- The teaching staff and director will supervise approved projects.
- Children must provide assent in order to participate in the project. If the child becomes tired, restless or unwilling, the child's participation will end and may be rescheduled for a later date.
- Students may not take photographic images, make videotaped observations, or collect other information about children in the lab school without both parental and child informed consent.
- All photographic images or videotapes should be respectful examples and used solely for the purposes identified in the class project.
- All photographic images or videotapes may not be used in any electronic media.
- All photographic images or videotapes may not be published unless authorized by a parent release.
- The CDL director will monitor all approved projects.
- The approved project may be terminated at the discretion of the CDL director at any time for any reason.
- All information collected from the MU Child Development Laboratory must be treated with the highest confidentiality and used solely for the purposes identified in the project.
Parent Involvement
A close family-school relationship is essential if the school is to be fully responsive to the child and if the child is to reap maximal benefits from the school experience.
You are invited to observe anytime. Observing allows you to note age and individual related behavior patterns and to watch your child as he/she interacts in a social environment.
If you have questions about what you observe (i.e., children's behavior, use of materials, teacher's behavior, etc.), please ask the teacher about it. Often times an individual in the booth will observe a snapshot in time and may not clearly understand the reasoning behind a certain action in the classroom.
- Parent Participation
- Your participation is eagerly welcomed in the programs. Your participation can take many forms and we hope that all parents will find meaningful ways to participate in their child's laboratory experience. Some ways in which you may choose to participate include:
- Field trip transportation and supervision.
- Assistant teaching (occasionally or on a routine basis).
- Leading or assisting in special projects (carpentry, sewing, music, cooking, science experiments, cultural experiences, etc.).
- Participation in Play yard Improvement Days to maintain and improve the outdoor environments.
- Construction or collection of materials for lab use such as paint aprons, raw materials for art projects, dress-up clothes, dramatic play props, carpentry materials, etc.
- Attending or planning parent workshops.
- Eating breakfast, lunch or snack with your child - let the teachers and our cook know in advance.
- Home/School Communications
- Weekly copies of the curriculum will be posted for parents. It is often helpful for you to review activities planned for the day with your child. Since the curriculum is planned in advance some changes based on spontaneous learning opportunities and child needs can be expected.
- Parent/Teacher Conferences
- Individual parent-teacher conferences will be offered at least once during each year. Most preschool-aged children are selected as "target children" by a college student for at least one semester. Therefore, you will need to attend the end-of-the-semester conference with the room teacher and the student teacher to discuss your child's development and the student's observations over the course of the semester.
- During the conference the student teacher informs you about your child's development as observed over the course of the semester and uses the time to set goals and answer questions. During the conference, you will receive a copy of the Developmental Summary on your child.
- Blue Door parent conferences are held throughout the year by the lab teachers. Formal conferences are not regularly scheduled with parents of school-age children. However, all parents should feel free to request a conference any time during the year.
- In addition, informal communication of parent concerns, teacher concerns, and the sharing of special joys, sorrows and accomplishments in the child's life is important.
- Parent Workshops
- The college students throughout the year will present social and educational parent workshops. In order that these meetings might relate to the interests of parents, your involvement in program planning is encouraged.
- Kiddie Kronicle
- Each month during the school year the CDL publishes the Kiddie Kronicle newsletter. This newsletter provides you with the latest general information and specific room information. The newsletter is not typically published in the summer months.
- Parent Advisory Council
- Two parents from each room volunteer to serve on the Parent Advisory Council (PAC). The PAC meets monthly to share ideas and discuss policies with the administrators. If you are interested in serving on the PAC, please talk to your child's teacher.
- CDL Materials Accessible to Families
- Licensing manuals are available in 31 Stanley Hall. Parents may also have access to their children's classroom files, family registry forms, accreditation materials, etc.). For access to these materials, see the director.
Parking and Parking Area Safety Policy/Procedure (rev. 1/20/12)
- Parking Lot Use
- Only currently enrolled families are permitted to use the marked CDL parking spaces for drop off and pick up and any other CDL related activities during the designated times on the parking signs. The parking spaces should not be used for any other purpose other than CDL related activities and will be subject to ticketing or towing if they are used for any other purpose. Parking security will patrol the CDL parking area several times a day to ensure that only CDL tagged cars are parked in those spaces. Cars with CDL tags parked in the CDL spaces for purposes other than drop off/pick up or CDL related activities are subject to being ticketed or towed as well.
- Safety Practices
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Only park your vehicle in the CDL designated parking spaces. You may park in the white lined area if the other parking spaces are full during drop off and pick up. Do not park on the side walk area next to Gentry under any circumstances. The yellow line signifies that it is not a parking area. You are subject to being ticketed if you park in that area. We do not want children crossing the parking area to get to cars parked on that sidewalk. It poses a danger to the children as cars drive through the parking area to exit the parking lot. If all the parking area is full including those along the white lines, then proceed to exit at Hitt Street and rotate around until a parking space is free. Alternative parking may be available behind Stewart Hall or you may be able to park in the faculty lot behind Gwynn for overflow during heavy drop off and pick up times.
You may not back up or do a U-turn to exit the parking lot via any other direction but to proceed forward to the exit onto Hitt next to Memorial Union.
Parent/Guardians must keep close contact or hold the hand of the child as you proceed to and from the CDL parking area. Make sure children are walking on the sidewalk for the duration of the walk to and from your car. Closely supervise your children and exit and enter the car carefully and quickly. Do not allow children to walk around the car or linger by the car unsupervised or for long periods of time. For your child’s safety, do not allow your child to run ahead of you while entering and exiting the CDL. Resist socializing with other families in the parking area. Move quickly and carefully so that other families can enter spaces as needed. Under no circumstances should children/siblings be left unattended in the car or parking area.
*YOUR PARKING TAG MAY BE REVOKED IF YOU DO NOT
COMPLY WITH THE CDL PARKING SAFETY POLICIES * - Issuing CDL Parking Tag Procedures
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Newly enrolled Families - Families will receive their CDL parking tags after they have completed their parent orientation and have turned in the enrollment forms. The CDL Parking Policy and Safety procedures will be reviewed with parents during the Parent Orientation and will receive a copy of the policy. If there is a baby sitter or relative that will be picking up your child on a regular basis, we may issue them a parking tag and they will need to provide their vehicle information on the enrollment form to obtain their tag. Each family may have more than one tag (one per vehicle). Each vehicle must be identified on the enrollment form and assigned a tag. When your child is no longer be enrolled in the CDL please return your tag to the CDL main office before by the last day of attendance.
Non family members needing a parking tag. If you are visitor, or a therapist/consultant you may request a tag upon the day of the visit. Go to the main office, 31 Stanley and request a tag. Return the tag before leaving that day. If you regularly visit the CDL for CDL purposes you may request a tag and register your vehicle with the CDL Director’s approval.
Returning Families - You must renew your parking tag annually. Returning families will receive their new parking tags when new contracts are signed and returned to the CDL main office (31 Stanley).
Peanut Free Policy and Procedures
Purpose: To prevent any peanut allergy reactions of CDL children, staff, students and families who have or may have the potential for peanut allergies.
Policy: All CDL play areas including the classrooms, and outside play areas, testing room and CDL main office are peanut free zones including all peanuts, peanut butter, anything cooked in peanut oils or any other peanut product. All foods, cooking activities and other classroom activities will be free of any peanut products.
Procedures:
- Check all foods and activity materials for peanut products prior to bringing them into the classroom or to the outside play areas.
- Families, Teachers, Staff, Students must thoroughly wash hands and face after handling or ingesting peanut products prior to entering the CDL play areas. It is also suggested that you brush your teeth if you will be interacting closely with the children at eye level.
- If you have any questions about the content of any food item being brought to the CDL, please contact the classroom Instructor for clarification before sharing with the CDL classrooms.
- Foods made with peanut products that are shared in the staff lounge must be clearly labeled indicating warning of peanut content.
- All classrooms and play areas will be clearly marked with "Peanut-Free Zone" posters.
Philosophy
Play Yard Policies
Guidelines for Teachers, Students, Substitutes, Work-Study Students and Volunteers
Children should be supervised at all times. Teachers should disperse themselves about the entire play space, moving about with the children and interacting with them in play. Teachers should scan the tot lot on a daily basis and remove trash, sticks or other unsafe items that may have blown in overnight. Safety checks are done on a weekly basis, however, please report any safety concern to a CDL teacher or Director. Blue Door Tot Lot: Kleenex tissues, latex gloves and antibacterial wipes are stored in the upright storage cabinet.
The CDL play yard is governed by three basic rules:
- Children may not hurt themselves;
- Children may not hurt others; and
- Children may not destroy property.
The items below are more specific guidelines based on these three rules.
Large CDL Play Yard (Stanley)
| Play Yard Guideline | Corresponding Rationale |
| 1. Teachers should not catch children when they jump from the platform, etc. Teachers may hold children's hands lightly. | 1. Fosters over-reliance on adults and gives a false security about jumping from heights that are too high. |
| 2. Teachers do not push swing for extensive periods of time. Encourage children to push selves (on tummy OK) or each other. | 2. Fosters over-reliance on teachers. Also, teachers can get "trapped" swinging and can't see the whole yard. |
| 3. No playing in toy boxes. | 3. Toy boxes are for toys and not children. |
| 4. No capes, ropes, or toys in the tree, climbers, etc. | 4. Capes may get tangled in the tree. Children lose capes and may fall when they reach down to get them. Also, we don't want superheroes leaping down from the platform. |
| 5. No climbing trees. | 5. Trees are too young and/or branches are too high. |
| 6. Tricycles stay in the trike path area; children may not "crash" trikes; one-way traffic only; children must sit on trike seats and pedal/push themselves. | 6. Prevents accidents on the hill and with pedestrians. Encourages safe driving. |
| 7. All wheel toys (wagons, tricycles) stay on the bike track and off the concrete along the sidewalk alongside the building. | 7. Wagons can be used to transport materials, but should stay off the walk because of doors opening, kids running, etc. |
| 8. Slides are only for people (no toys, etc.) and one at a time, feet in front. | 8. Safety. |
| 9. Rocks are for examining, painting, and putting in the water, etc. Not for throwing. Sticks belong on the ground. | 9. Flying rocks and sticks used as weapons are dangerous. |
| 10. Digging is allowed only in the west sand and dirt area. | 10. Spades could be dangerous if used as weapons. Also, children may trip over them. Therefore, they should be restricted to one supervised area. |
| 11. Sand in sand areas only; rocks in rock area. | 11. We don't want to "lose" the sand and rocks. |
| 12. Bare feet in sand and water areas only. | 12. Safety; prevents cut feet. |
| 13. Teachers and student teachers station themselves around the play yard | 13. Closer supervision helps prevent accidents and discipline problems. |
| 14. No hacking/chopping/breaking tree limbs or shrubs. | 14. Respect for growing things. |
| 15. Keep feet down on ground and platforms; no climbing on railings, etc. | 15. Too dangerous; children may fall. |
| 16. Walkway alongside the building must be kept free of dirt and sand. | 16. Aesthetics, and keeping the walkway easily passable for feet, wheelchairs, etc. Also helps keep sand from getting indoors. |
| 17. Keep children off mulch and garden areas. | 17. Plants need to be protected. |
| 18. Return hoses to proper place. | 18. So the teachers and children don't trip over them. |
| 19. Clean up toys in all areas of playground and return to toy boxes before going inside. | 19. It's the right thing to do. |
Green Door Play Yard (Gwynn)
| Play Yard Guideline | Corresponding Rationale |
| 1. Sand toys stay in sand area. | 1. Toys safer in sand (and easier to keep track of). |
| 2. One at a time on the slide; feet first only. | 2. Safety; slide is small. |
| 3. Rocks are for examining, putting in water, etc. not for throwing. | 3. Flying rocks are dangerous. |
| 4. Windows only to look through from a safe distance; no sitting on sills, pushing on glass, etc. | 4. Windows could break. |
| 5. Sand in sand areas only; rocks in rock areas. | 5. So sand and rocks are not "lost." |
| 6. Green barrel only for toys; not children. | 6. Unsafe to climb in or on. |
| 7. Teachers (student teachers) station themselves to see all areas. | 7. Close supervision helps prevent accidents and discipline problems. . |
| 8. Everyone works together to clean up all toys and return to green barrel before coming inside. | 8. Helps keep playground clean and toys from being lost or broken. |
| 9. Children on playground only; not on concrete steps or landing at bottom of steps. | 9. Enables closer supervision. Steps and landing are not play areas. |
| Play Yard Guideline | Corresponding Rationale |
| 1. The fence is not for climbing. Feet stay on the ground. The gate should be latched at all times. | 1. Children may fall. Children may get on to big playground unknowingly. |
| 2. Riding toys stay on lower level. No bikes on ramp, steps, or upper level. | 2. Children may bump into others, structure, or wall. |
| 3. Sand toys stay in the sand area. | 3. We won't have enough sand to play with if it is dumped out or carried around. |
| 4. Only sand toys belong in the toy box. Teachers supervise removal and replacing of sand toys in sand box. | 4. Little fingers could get hurt or heads bumped. The toy box is not a safe place for children to play. |
| 5. Sand is for digging and scooping. Sand should not be thrown. | 5. Sand could get in our eyes and hurt our ears. |
| 6. Picnic table is for sitting on the benches. | 6. Children could fall if they climb or sit on top. |
| 7. Sticks belong in the trash. | 7. Children could get poked. |
| 8. Wood chips stay on the ground on the upper level. Infants should be monitored closely on upper level. | 8. The chips make the area safe if children fall. Children could choke if they chew or swallow wood chips. |
| 9. Shoes must be worn at all times, except on special occasions such as water play, wet sand play, etc. Children may empty sand from their shoes and replace. | 9. Children's feet might get hurt. |
| 10. Flowers are for looking and smelling. Children should use gentle touches with the flowers. | 10. The flowers are fragile and break easily. We want to enjoy them and take care of them. |
| 11. The upright storage cabinet should be locked at all times. | 11. The cabinet could tip over if pulled or climbed on. Children could get hurt if they try to climb up the shelves. |
Research and Confidentiality Policies
The Child Development Lab (CDL) is pleased to cooperate with research projects approved by the Campus Institutional Review Board (IRB) and CDL staff. These policies have been developed to ensure the privacy of the children, families, and teachers at the MU CDL. All investigators who conduct research are asked to read and adhere to the following policies:
- Researchers may not take photographic images, make videotaped observations, or collect other information about children in the lab without both parental and child informed consent.
- A faculty member must sponsor student researchers.
- All research projects must be approved by the IRB; the investigator will be required to submit the IRB title and seven-digit number.
- All researchers must submit a CDL Research Proposal Request.
- All researchers must receive approval of the CDL Research Proposal Request prior to beginning the project. The research proposal is discussed during a lab staff meeting and approved by the CDL director, a laboratory instructor, an assistant instructor and a Parent Advisory Council member.
- The proposal will be evaluated and approved based on the appropriateness of the research methodology and design; the involvement required by the participants; and the degree of intrusiveness into the daily program and routine.
- The researcher shall distribute and collect all consent forms.
- Children must provide assent in order to participate in the research. If the child becomes tired, restless or unwilling, the child's participation will end and may be rescheduled for a later date.
- All photographic images or videotapes should be respectful examples and used solely for the purposes identified in the research.
- All photographic images or videotapes may not be used in any electronic media.
- All photographic images or videotapes may not be published unless authorized by a parent release.
- The CDL director will monitor all approved projects.
- The approved research may be terminated at the discretion of the CDL director at any time for any reason.
- The researcher must be available to parents to discuss concerns or address questions.
- All information collected from the MU Child Development Laboratory must be treated with the highest confidentiality and used solely for the purposes identified in the research.
For more information, see MU Researchers, the Research Proposal Request and the Campus Institutional Review Board.
Rest Time
Nap time is an important time for children to reenergize, but it is also a good time for teachers to regroup, clean, do paperwork, discuss the days activities, and plan future curriculum for the class.
All of the children rest in the afternoon. Children are asked to rest but are not required to sleep. Children are helped to relax by a variety of methods: darkened room, soft music or story tapes, rubbing backs, etc. Non-nappers are asked to quietly rest for one hour, after that they may get up and participate in quiet activities.
We will try to accommodate parent's requests to wake sleeping children after one hour of sleep, but only when it is in the best interest of the child. Ethically, we cannot keep tired children from sleeping.
We ask that parents bring in a crib sheet for their child's cot, a soft blanket (please wash weekly) and a pillow or soft toy (please wash, as needed). In most rooms, the crib sheet is donated to the room and becomes community property so please do not label unless otherwise advised.
Safety Policy and Procedures
The CDL is licensed and inspected by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services - Bureau of Child Care and accredited through Missouri Accreditation.
We also receive annual inspections by the State Fire Marshall's Office, Health and Sanitation inspections by UMC Environmental Health and Safety and the City of Columbia, and nutrition audits by the USDA food program.
These inspections ensure that all health and safety regulations are met and that the CDL adheres to high quality standards regarding teacher requirements, adult/child ratios, curriculum, nutrition and other administrative practices.
General Safety Practices
- Teachers, students and volunteers are included in the Family Care and Safety Registry.
- Teachers, students and volunteers have a health form on file and yearly TB tests.
- Teachers, students and volunteers have foodhandler certification to handle food.
- All staff members are mandated to report any suspicion of child abuse/neglect.
- Children are supervised at all times and ratios maintained.
- Parent emergency information on file in children's files and on emergency directory.
- Authorized pick-up information on file and on emergency directory.
- If we are not familiar with the authorized pick-up person we will ask to see identification and will match the person's ID with the emergency directory information provided by the parent(s).
- Each room equipped with first-aid kit.
- Emergency numbers are posted by each classroom phone.
- Emergency evacuation plans are posted in each room, the hallway, and outside the CDL office.
- Emergency drills (e.g., fire, tornado) practiced monthly with the children.
- Because we do not have an official "sign in/sign out" system, we ask that parents inform the teachers when children arrive and depart.
- Teachers keep roll and take head counts.
- Teachers spread out on play yard to ensure adequate and appropriate supervision.
- Teacher stays near the play yard gate during departure.
- Bike track is always supervised when children are riding bikes.
- Play yard rules are posted for parents, staff, and students.
- Play yard monitored closely for safety and improvements made during play yard improvement days.
- Staff are trained in CPR, First Aid, and Choke Saving/Rescue Breathing.
- Medicine box is out of children's reach.
- Medications administered only with written permission of parents.
- Food servers wear gloves when handling ready-to-eat foods.
- Cleaning supplies out of children's reach.
- Teachers fill out documentation for accidents, incidents, and health-related incidents. Parents are given copies of accident forms.
- Teachers follow universal precautions for blood-related accidents and incidents.
- Safety mats are used under climbing equipment indoors.
- Choke tubes available to test if toys are too small.
- Latex gloves available in room for emergencies.
- Toys are checked frequently and broken toys are discarded.
- CDL administration works with parking operations to improve parking lot safety - extra stop sign, caution sign, etc.
- Parking lot safety tips shared with parents.
- Emergency numbers and first aid kits included in fanny pack for walking field trips.
- Van drivers attend van driver training.
- Vans equipped with first-aid kits, children's emergency numbers and phones.
- Vans equipped with booster seats and car seats.
- Children are not allowed to ride in front seats of vehicles.
- Parents are informed in advance of all field trips.
- Teacher-child ratio is adjusted for field trips to ensure that there is a higher ratio of adults to children.
- On field trips children must stay where teachers can see them at all times and vice versa.
- Daily information charts keep staff and parents updated and informed regarding the infants' and toddlers' health, mood, etc.
- No small toys accessible to infants and toddlers.
- When departing from the school bus school-age children must stay together and walk close to Gwynn. Children enter Gwynn at the western-most door and walk down the hallway to Red Door Room.
- Health and safety information incorporated into the curriculum and taught to the children on a regular basis.
Parents' Responsibilities for Safety
- Keep current on children's immunizations and well baby/child check-ups.
- Keep sick children at home until 24 hours after the disappearance of all symptoms including the disappearance of fever, Tylenol-free.
- Tell your child's teacher if he or she has a communicable disease.
- Fill out the necessary forms to allow your child's teachers to administer medications.
- Take home medications that we no longer administer.
- If your child will not be coming to the CDL for sickness or other reasons, please call your child's teacher to let him or her know.
- Teach your children good health practices at home (wiping nose with tissues, brushing teeth after meals, flushing the toilet, washing hands before meals and after toileting, cleaning up after self, etc.). It helps if we are consistent with health practices at home and school.
- Keep your locating information current with the CDL office. This includes phone numbers for home, work, and cell; home address; and e-mail address.
- Keep your authorized pick-up people current with the CDL office. You may have up to three (3) different people who are authorized to pick up your child on the emergency directory. We encourage families to have at least two (2) authorized people listed in the database.
- Introduce the people authorized to pick up your child to the CDL teachers and office personnel. If we do not know the people authorized to pick-up your child we will ask to see their identification.
- Always tell the teachers if someone other than the parent(s) will be picking up your child. Make sure that person is authorized to pick-up your child (by having the teacher check the emergency directory).
- Bring your child to the CDL in the appropriate car safety restraints. Keep children eleven years or younger in the back seat where it is safer. If we notice that your child is not properly restrained, don't be offended if we say something to you about it.
- Never leave a child in the car unattended.
- Do not let your child run ahead of you in the parking lot. Teach them to stay close for safety purposes.
- In the parking lot, walk on the sidewalk in front of the cars. Do not walk in the street behind the parking lot.
- Always walk to the CDL on the sidewalk.
- Please do not "race" with your children in the hall. Do not let them run ahead of you in the hallways.
- Do not ask your child to meet you inside or allow the child to linger in his or her classroom while you go to pick up another child in a different room. When we see you arrive, we transfer responsibility for keeping your child supervised back to you.
- When you drop off or pick up your child, make time to make contact with the child's teachers so that they know you are dropping off/picking up. Never take your child without letting a teacher know.
- Keep teachers informed about your child's health, mood, eating habits, family situation or anything that might affect your child's behavior at school.
- Teach your child about safety practices (good strangers/bad strangers, practice fire and tornado drills at home, stop drop and roll, etc). It helps if we are consistent with safety practices at home and school.
- Keep your child's cubby stocked with appropriate extra clothes.
- Have your infant-toddler start his or her day with a fresh diaper and a morning breakfast snack/bottle.
- If possible, volunteer on your child's field trips so that we have a better ratio of children to adults.
- If possible, volunteer on Play yard Improvement Days to help us keep the play yard as safe as possible.
Separation
Children sometimes have difficulty letting go of their parent at arrival. This is typical behavior which, over time, should decrease as they become more secure in their new environment. Here are a few suggestions to help ease separation:
- Allow adequate time in the morning for arrival adjustment before needing to leave for work.
- While traveling, talk to your child about going to "Blue Door," who will be there, etc. This prepares your child for what will occur. When you are rushed, children feel hurried and anxious.
- When you arrive, help your child get "settled in" by becoming involved in play.
- Once your child is playing comfortably, tell your child it's time for you to go. (You might also try a two-minute warning ahead of time.) Please, do not "sneak out". Children are establishing their sense of trust and need to see you go and see you return at the end of the day.
- Give hugs and kisses and reassure your child you will be back (e.g. after snack).
If there is still protest and difficulty, the staff are close by to help your child when you leave. Usually, children calm down and begin to play soon after you leave. Remember, even those children who are comfortable in play and in their environment need your attention, affection, and reassurance. All parents should follow these separation guidelines.
Tax Information
Letters/statements for income tax purposes will be given to each family no later than January 31 of each year.
If you have a cafeteria plan and wish to be reimbursed during the year, we ask that you bring the invoice when you pay your bill so that we may stamp and initial that it was paid. The stamped, paid invoice is all your cafeteria plan needs to reimburse you for child care services.
Teacher Training Experience
See Teacher Training Experience.
Toys
The Child Development Lab teachers cannot be responsible for toys brought from home.
We welcome books, records and other special items that can be shared during group time. Be sure that the child's name is on these items.
We encourage children to keep their toys at home. Sharing is not an easy task for young children. Toys can also become mixed up with ours or may be damaged.
If a child brings a toy from home, he/she may be asked to keep it in his/her cubby for the day. Check with your child's teacher about each room's policy regarding toys being brought from home.
Transitioning New Children
We prefer to have new children ease into the room and routine. We recommend a few short visits, gradually lengthening the visit time, prior to full-day enrollment. This helps your child become familiar with the environment and also helps us get acquainted.
Each child is unique in their pattern and ease of adjustment to new situations. Be sure to talk with the staff daily during the transition phase. A consistent daily schedule (arrival and departure routines) also help children adjust to a new routine and environment.
You are welcome to stay with your child in the room during the visits, keeping in mind that separation will eventually need to be made (see Separation). However, because your child is not officially enrolled and is not included in the teacher-child ratio parents should stay with their child or observe from the booth. Visits should last from 2 - 3 hours. If you would like your child to experience different times of the day - schedule your visits accordingly. For liability purposes, parents may not leave their child unsupervised during visits.
Withdrawal
Parents are required to give the CDL Director a minimum of a 30 day notice in writing prior to withdrawing their child from the program. Written notification of withdrawal of less than 30 days will result in the forfeiture of the initial deposit.
