Monday, October 19, 2009

About Val's Butterfly Garden Childcare

Extensive details can always be located to the right side of this page, filed under "Points of Interest".
To return to the beginning again, simply click my banner at the top of this page.

I have been providing childcare professionally for 20 years. For 4 years as an E.C.E. assistant, 2 years as an E.C.E. student and 14 years as an Early Childhood Educator. I began working with Canada's leading childcare organization after intense studies with The Canadian Mothercraft Society in Toronto.

I chose to open a home childcare so that I may continue my passion of working with children, while gaining the ability to raise my own children at home. "Children Grow Here!" is Val's Butterfly Garden's motto because there are so many opportunities for your child to blossom in my care! I have received so much positive feedback from my website visitors and families receiving my care.

I have been certified in Adult/Child/Infant CPR and First Aid . Both my husband Paul and I have passed Criminal Reference Checks. I have numerous references available. I consider my professional development a priority and have taken many additional workshops and seminars over the years, and will continue to do so. Programs such as Hanen's Learning Language and Loving it Certification. I am a member of the Association of Early Childhood Educators in Ontario (AECEO), and the Canadian Childcare Federation (CCCF).

I serve a healthy mid morning snack, a well-balanced lunch and an afternoon snack daily. I believe that mealtime should be a pleasant experience and is a fantastic avenue for developing self help skills. Any diet restrictions your child may have should be clearly stated upon your child's registration and will be monitored closely. Unfortunately, I cannot provide a peanut free environment at this time.

Our yard is fenced in and features many fun opportunities for the children. Most outdoor toys are stored in the shed when not in use. Although we have a hot tub, it's lid is locked and it is fenced into our upper level decks and children's access to the deck is prohibited by a gate. We are fortunate to also boast an indoor play space for gross motor activity. Our indoor play area encourages active play and includes: riding toys, play house, climbers and plenty of space to run and develop gross motor skills on those cold or rainy days. Children in my care receive an hour of gross motor activity in both the morning and the afternoon, as is required by the Day's Nurseries Act.

I provide a walk to and from Northern Lights Public School on a daily schedule. Children are driven in inclement weather, and appropriate carseat equipment must be provided to Val if needed.

And last, but certainly not least...Val's Butterfly Garden is a place where your child will enjoy a dedicated space. My Childcare is located in our finished walk-out basement with emergency exit. It is designed with developmental centres for your child to explore and play. With a "Happily Ever After" room dedicated to dramatic play, a "Big Kids Club" room where all toys that aren't age appropriate for toddlers and preschoolers are kept, and a large main childcare room...there is something for everyone.

I am registered with the College of Early Childhood Educators.  Although registration is not required of an E.C.E. with a home childcare of 5 children or less, professionalism is of utmost importance to me.

Bringing your child to Val's Butterfly Garden isn't like dropping off at "the sitters". I am an Early Childhood Educator, committed to providing nurturing care and creating a stimulating environment in which the children in my care flourish through play. 

Please note, that I have closed Val's Butterfly Garden Childcare in September of 2013 as I am working in Full Day Kindergarten. 

Contact Val & Copyright Information

CONTACT VAL
For best results, Email Val at valsbutterflygarden@yahoo.com
I apologize in advance for delayed responses.  I do not check this email frequently when I am at full capacity. Please note, that I have closed Val's Butterfly Garden Childcare in September of 2013 as I am working in Full Day Kindergarten.  

Alternatively, you may leave a message for Val at 905 727 7360

COPYRIGHT
Please note the copyright on the right-hand side of this page. I worked extremely hard to build my website and frequently discover copied materials on other local childcare advertising. The content of this website is my Intellectual Property, it is under copyright and a no right-click code has been applied to prevent copying by unscrupulous or uninformed visitors.  Please know that my philosophies and website content originated here, from years of experience as an Early Childhood Educator. The content of my blog is a published work and automatically protected by copyright.  A copyright notice has been added to the sidebar of this website just as a reminder to others that this work is protected.  If I discover my materials have been copied, I will contact you to remove my content and I will report it via the Digital Millennium Copyright Act Notice. 

A warning about a provider who would take the time to type out another provider's content, they haven't taken the time to consider their own philosophies or describe their own true experience.

I urge you to educate yourself about intellectual property rights. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has several online publications that explain copyright issues. The World Intellectual Property Organization has an especially helpful pamphlet geared to kids that explains copyrights and what we can use from the Web in our own work.

Wordpress blog will be reported on this form.
The Typepad form is here.
Blogger's is here.

Location

Val's Butterfly Garden is a home childcare providing service in the Bayview Greens area of Aurora, Ontario, Canada. We back onto the lovely Aurora Arboretum.

Nearest intersections are St. John's Sdrd and Yonge or Bayview Streets. 


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Fee Schedule



Please note, that I have closed Val's Butterfly Garden Childcare in September of 2013 as I am working in Full Day Kindergarten.  

** Daily fee's are offered for families accepting a full part time position of 2 or 3 regularly contracted days a week. For single contracted days, or irregular schedules, the fee's are slightly higher. In situations where part time children are taking up a space that could otherwise be used for full timers, a premium fee applies as agreed upon by caregiver and family.  Part time spaces may be subject to notice in cases where room needs to be made to accommodate a full time space.**


Full Time - Full Day (9 hour day) 7-4 or 8-5
$50 day / $250 week
0 months to 18 months *Infant Program
18 months to 30 months *Toddler Program
2 1/2 years to 5 years *Preschool Program
*I have 3 of these spaces.

Full Time - Short Day (9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.)
$40 day / $200 week
0 months to 18 months *Infant Program
18 months to 30 months *Toddler Program
2 1/2 years to 5 years *Preschool Program
*This space is offered when my 3 full time spaces are filled.  It allows for a child to attend in between my school transition hours so that I do not exceed the maximum capacity in my minivan during school transportation.  A discounted rate applies for the shorter bracket of care which must be strictly adhered to.

Part Time - Part timers will pay the daily rate and will have a contracted schedule of days: ie. Mon, Wed, Fri @ $50 per day = $150 per week. Half day part timers are subject to availability. Price is full fee as you pay for the space and not by the hour unless you adopt a Drop in Care contract. Ask Val for details as these spaces are subject to availability.

Fee Schedule for School Age Program (6-12 years)  $45 a day

PM ONLY
AM ONLY
MARCH BREAK / PA DAYS OR OTHER FULL TIME
(School age children)

Drop in Care: Minimum of 2 hours for all ages

Other Fees and Charges:

NSF Cheques = $25.00 per item. All NSF cheques must be replaced with a cash payment that includes this fee and any other fees incurred by my bank on the following day.

Late Pick Up Fees = $5.00 per 1st 15 min. $1 each additional minute
My family time is precious and these late fees are set to discourage late pick-ups

Late Payment Fees = $10 late day charge, $5.00 per additional late day

Hourly Rate & Pre-Planned overtime = $20.00 per hour per child

Security Deposit = Equal to 1 week of scheduled care. This deposit will be credited toward your last week of your two weeks notice of termination of care.

Registration Fee = Each family must pay a $30 registration fee per child upon enrollment. This is to defray the costs of advertising, supplies and other expenses involved in running my business.  This registration fee applies every time a new enrollment takes place, and when a child is enrolled after a leave.

**Late Pick up times and Over night care may be arranged on an individual basis**

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Paid Statutory Holiday's

Please note, that I have closed Val's Butterfly Garden Childcare in September of 2013 as I am working in Full Day Kindergarten.  
As Per Contract:

Holidays

I will not provide care on any major holidays. Val’s Butterfly Garden Child Care will be closed and regular payment for these observed holidays will be charged. Even if you are taking time off at Christmas, these fees will be due. They are major holidays and I am closed regardless of your vacation schedule.

Should a statutory holiday fall on a Saturday, I will be closed on the Friday before, on a Sunday, I will be closed on the following Monday. Alternatively, If the Friday or Monday is already a scheduled stat., the day will be taken on the Thurs. prior or Tues. following. Regular payments of fees are due on all statutory holidays scheduled for care.  Please note that New Years Eve and Christmas Eve are included in my Paid Statutory Holidays as contracted and the above rules also apply to these days.

New Years Eve
New Years Day
Family Day
Good Friday
Easter Monday
Victoria Day
Canada Day
Civic Holiday
Labour Day
Thanksgiving
Christmas Eve Day
Christmas Day
Boxing Day

Please arrange for back-up care if needed. I can provide you with the number of a backup provider if you are in need. I cannot guarantee her availability. You will also be responsible for payment of her fees for those days as well.

These are paid holidays and your fee will not be reduced during my closure for these Holidays. Please note that if you intend on taking holidays during this time, my regular fee for the Statutory Holidays is still due, and you will only need to use the excess amount of days required for your vacation. These days are paid and the appropriate (2 weeks) written notice is required for anything over 1 day off.

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Rules of the House & Other Expectations

I stress 2 main patterns of behaviour: Respect for other people and Respect for property. Our 3 simple rules, posted in each of the area's used by the children, encompass my philosophy.

(1) YOU MAY NOT HURT YOURSELF

*No leaving the house or yard without permission
*No children under the age of 5 are to go outside without an adult, that includes pick-up time
*No behaviour that risks harming your own body or feelings

(2) YOU MAY NOT HURT OTHERS

*No hitting, kicking, biting, pushing etc.
*No picking up babies or toddlers, it is the law
*No name calling, teasing, yelling. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect.

(3) YOU MAY NOT HURT THINGS (furniture, toys etc.)

*No throwing or intentionally breaking anything.
*No shoes in the house, No shoes on the furniture


OTHER EXPECTATIONS....
*  Please avoid bringing any food from home unless you have brought enough for everyone.

*  Please avoid bringing precious toys from home. Home toys cause strife when they become damaged or lost. Please mark home toys clearly with your child's name. Home toys that enter my home, do so at YOUR own risk. I am not responsible for lost or damaged items.

*  Please reinforce my rules at drop-off and pick-up time. Please show your child that you respect me and the house rules by reminding them (and allowing me to remind them when needed) that the rules still apply whether or not someone else is here.

*  Please arrange a private time to speak with me when you would like to discuss issues relating to your or another child at length. Little ears are keen ears and I prefer to chat out of their earshot.

*  Please do not expect my house or your child to be spotless when you come to pick them up during programming hours. Sometimes we can get pretty messy when we are playing, eating or doing crafts. My primary focus is on the play experience. Their clothing should be appropriate for play.

*  Please be supportive. Home childcare can be very isolating, having very little contact with adults. Whether it is supporting my thoughts & decisions or just sharing supplies such as unneeded paper, a box of crackers or volunteering to join us for a trip...every little bit helps.

*  Please treat me as a professional, this is my career choice. I am an Early Childhood Educator, not a babysitter.

*  Please respect my family and my home. We are a normal family just like yours. We need our own separate lives away from childcare. Also, please realize that I need time alone with my family, so please support me when I need to request time off.

*  Please be on time or arrange for someone else to be here in time to pick up your child. Often we have places to go in the early evening (such as dinner, our families homes, hockey or dance lessons) so my day needs to end precisely at 5:00 to ensure quality time with my own family.

*  Sometimes events at home may influence a child and they may need a little extra attention. Please take the time to communicate these needs. Also, please feel free to voice any concerns or even compliments that you may have. Your feedback is ALWAYS welcome!

Thank you for all of your support!

Email Val

Discipline & Touch Policy


  
* The provider will discipline in a consistent manner, based on each child's individual needs, behaviour and varying developmental level. Simple, understandable rules will be established so that expectations and limitations are clearly defined.

* Discipline will be constructive in nature and will include such methods as: problem solving, diversions & redirection, separation of child from situation, temporary loss of priveledges, praise of appropriate behaviour and time out to play independantly with a quiet activity.

* The child will not be punished by: spanking, pinching, shaking or other forms of corporal punishment; being isolated for long periods of time; confinement in closets, boxes or similar places; binding to restrain movement of mouth or limb; humiliation or verbal abuse; deprivation of meals, snacks, outdoor play opportunities or other program components.

* Short-term restrictions from the use of specific play materials and equipment or participation in a specific activity are permissable.

* The child will not be punished for lapses in toilet training or for refusing food. Highchairs and cribs will not be used for discipline purposes.

* Biting Policy will focus on modifying the child's behaviour within the daycare setting and work cooperatively with the parents to identify alternate strategies.

APPROPRIATE TOUCHES INCLUDE

* Recognition of the importance of physical contact and child nurturance and guidance.

* Adult respect for personal privacy and personal space of children.

* Responses affecting the safety and well being of the child (ie. holding hands with the child while crossing the stret, holding child gently during temper tantrum)

* Hugs, lap-sitting, reassuring touches on the shoulder and naptime back rubs.

INAPPROPRIATE TOUCHES INCLUDE

* Coercion or other forms of exploitation of the child's lack of knowledge

* Satisfaction of adult needs at the expense of the child.

* Violation of laws against sexual contact between children and adults.

* An attempt to change the child's behaviour with adult physical force, often applied in anger.

* Forced goodbye kisses, corporal punishment, slapping, striking, pinching, tickling for prolonged periods, fondling or molestation.


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VBG Calendar

Simply click an entry to view the full details of scheduled vacation or closures.



Photo Glimpse

To view linked images, click the underlined text and then use your back button to return to this website.

THE MAIN LEVEL

Welcome! When entering, shoes must be left on the mat provided. Children have a cubby hook inside the closet at the front entrance to hang their hats, coats, snow/water pants and bags. Another cubby is located in the basement to house their extra clothes and belongings. I will document each child's arrival and departure with a sign in chart on the purple clipboard for attendance purposes.

Our day begins on the main level and our family room a large toy box for free play. We also have a large collection of educational video's and disney movies.

Just past the foyer closet is where the entrance to the basement playspace is located, we keep a baby gate at the top of the staircase for the safety of infants. I ask all parents to leave outside shoes at the front door and all children to hold the handrail, or scoot downstairs on their bottoms for safety.

Many colourful foam mats are used as soft surfacing. This helps to prevent injury from a tumble and gives the children space to roll around and be active with thier bodies as well as sitting and focusing on floor activities..

The "Fun Trunk" houses many materials that encourage gross motor skills and active play indoors. Hula Hoops, Bean Bag Toss, Frisbee's, Hacky Sacs, Bouncy Balls, Balancing Boards, Road Signs, Hopscotch Games, Creative Movement Streamers, Parachute Game, and recreational game books keep us inspired to be active and enjoy a diversity of play.

We frequently transform our playspace into a "Dance Studio" by the radio. It is here that we get our groove on! Creative expression is valued at Val's Butterfly Garden and through dance we enjoy being creative while learning about movement, coordination, rhythm and sound.

Other ACTIVE indoor options include:

Ball toss game, tunnel,  School bus tent, Indoor Riding Toys, and The Costume Trunk, JumpSmart Trampoline!

IN THE BACKYARD

Here you will see our climber. With spaces to climb through, on top of and slide down, the climber is a wonderful tool for developing spatial awareness. It also develops coordination as children balance and climb.
We also have a larger slide which is so much fun and as the children wait for the next turn, it helps to develop social skills and turn taking.

Our riding toys help us to release some energy! They also help us to gain an understanding of some simple directions. STOP, GO, FAST, SLOW, FRONT, BACK, are some of the concepts that are integrated into our vehicle play, through signs and games. These are kept on the covered area under the deck in the backyard where we can enjoy a shady space on a hot day.  We also enjoy setting up the water table in the shady area beneath our new large maple tree!

We have three water tables, a sprinkler and many water toys to keep us cool during the hot months.  We also enjoy a playhouse in the backyard where we can take our imaginary play to the next level.  With a few cozy coupe cars, a gas station and a lawn mower, we can really pretend to be all grown up.  With a bubble machine and a huge bubble wand collection, we have lots of fun blowing, chasing, counting and popping bubbles.

I have a wagon, single, double and triple strollers for neighborhood walks, depending on our needs that day. We enjoy visits to the park when our numbers are low enough, and nature walks through the Aurora Arboretum paths behind my house. I also have a Zoo and Canada's Wonderland Pass & enjoy taking small groups on trip when I have volunteers.

THE PLAYROOM

Our child sized table doubles as a space to eat as well as providing the children with ample opportunity to get creative. Activities here include: Painting, Chalk Drawings, Sensory experiences, Colouring with Markers & Crayons, Stamping, Collaging & so much more.

The table is where we enjoy our mealtimes, little ones use the booster seats and scoop bibs to keep us clean.

Take a look at our Toy Shelves! As with all the toys, these toys are frequently rotated. The Storage Closet houses a wide variety of rotational toys AND a pair of green lockers store our art supplies as well as offer magnet fun.

The activity tables are located in the "big kidz zone" and primarily for quiet cognitive activities. Here you see puzzles set up, but the play options are endless at the activity tables and open ended. The Big Kidz Zone is where all toys that pose a choking hazard or that are difficult to use while interrupted by babies and toddlers, are kept. Children are encouraged to make thier own play choices for this area and may continue to select new toys and games as soon as their previous one has been tidied.

Some options include: Puzzles, Memory Games, Colour Matching Games, Number Counters, Magnet Exploration, Card Games, Science Experiments, Sensory Play, Alphabet Tracing, Tiny Lego, Games with Rules, Small manipulatives etc.

A playpen is also set up in the Big Kidz Zone where one of our little friends spends their mid day nap.

The Doll House is fully accessorized with beds, pool, sandbox, tables, chairs, swing, shed, vaccum, vehicles and a wide variety of little people. Children pull this into the room to access it from all sides. Just one of the many ways thier imagination will bloom here.

The block shelves always have a wide selection of blocks available. My collection of blocks includes: duplo, primo, wood building blocks, parquetry shapes, alphabet blocks, peek-a-boo blocks, cloth blocks, waffle blocks, megabloks & my collection is growing. It is adjacent to the car corner as these types of play go hand in hand.

Our quiet book corner offers a huge selection of story books, board books, tape books and a felt board with felt pieces. This is where we enjoy regular story times and sing-a-longs. It is also a cozy place to just relax. Some books are sorted by topic to aid in my programming. An instrument bin brought out during group time for musical experiences.

I have many stimulating toys for young ones including, kick toys, activity garden, exersaucer, rattles, teethers, board books, stuffed animals, aquarium swing, bouncy seats, sensory toys, baby einstein dvd's etc.

Our room is decorated with educational materials. The entranceway is where the bulletin board is located with our schedule and emergency plan posted at all times. I believe in a print-rich environment to promote early literacy so bins will be labelled with both the image of the toy & the word clearly displayed (labels are still being created).

We enjoy a convenient washroom space with change pad and diaper pail. Toilet seats and a potty for trainers. Step Stool at sink for handwashing. A Pantry which is child locked, for storage of a variety of items including dishes, some dry goods and diapering bins. These closets are our broom & Vacuum spaces.

DRAMATIC PLAY

The "Happily Ever After" room is a special place dedicated to pretend play. It provides a dedicated space for dramatic play with 3 kitchens we can play in different "houses"! Sometimes we play "house" The Happily Ever After room also has a full pretend house inside, toys shelves filled with play foods, dishes, masks, phones and purses.  Stuffed Animal & Dolly Bins, Doll beds and blankets, a work bench and piano, a flashlight collection and a playpen where one of our friends takes their mid day nap.

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Family Handbook & Policies

A LITTLE ABOUT VAL'S BUTTERFLY GARDEN CHILD CARE

My name is Valerie Griffin and I own/operate Val’s Butterfly Garden Child Care. My childcare has been in operation since October 2004. I am fully committed to the field of childcare and believe that we are all responsible for making this world a safe and nurturing place for children. I’ve been a member of a number of organizations that promote advocacy for early childhood education & for children.

The mission of Val's Butterfly Garden Child Care is to ensure that each parent has the peace of mind that your child is being properly cared for in a safe, nurturing, stimulating and fun environment while they are in my care. This is best accomplished through open communication and clearly defined policies. The policies in this handbook were written with these goals in mind. While here, your child will always be treated in a respectful and caring way. All children are taught to treat others as they would like to be treated and all adults are to adhere to that policy while in my home as well. Manners and kindness are emphasized while in my home.

I believe that children learn through play and benefit from a structured yet flexible schedule. Educational activities are based on the individual interests and needs of each child. It is through play that your child will learn a myriad of skills & life lessons that will endure throughout their lifetime. I take a hands-on approach and encourage children to get involved in all aspects of the day. Whether they are mixing muffin batter, learning to create their own play dough, helping to wash the paint pots, collecting nature specimens for a closer look or engaging in problem solving with their peers.... children will be given opportunities to explore their environment and discover their potential. It is the mission of Val's Butterfly Garden Child Care to provide outstanding care. Through professional development and the feedback of families, I am committed to the ongoing improvement of the service that I provide.

ENROLMENT POLICY

There are several forms that I must have completed and in my possession before I can assume the responsibility of caring for your child. No exceptions. This is to ensure that your child will get the very best care possible from me. The forms are as follows:

*Contract and Rate Agreement Form
*All About Me Form
*Medical History & Emergency Contact Card
*Non-Prescription Medication Record Form
*Photo Release Form
*Discipline and Touch Policy Form
*Travel and Activity Authorization Form
*Acknowledgement of Policies Form

You are required to keep me informed of any change in addresses, telephone numbers, and other pertinent information listed on any/all of the above forms. If you have any questions regarding the completion of these forms, please feel free to ask.

ANTI-BIAS

I will not discriminate in relation to admission on the basis of race, creed, colour, national origin, religion or sex, age or ability. I believe that differences are to be valued and I integrate anti-bias concepts into my programming for the children.

TRIAL PERIOD

The first two weeks of care are considered a trial period. Part-Time families will have a 1-month trial period. During that time the parent or provider may terminate the childcare agreement with 24 hours notice. No pre-paid fees will be credited upon cancellation during the Trial Period. During these two weeks, if either the provider or the parent terminates from care, fees are due up to and including the final day of the second week. After the trial period, a two-week's written notice is required by either party to terminate the agreement (See Termination Policy). If the parent terminates, with just cause, after the initial “trial period” the deposit will be used toward their last week of care.

Your registration fee is not refundable if services are cancelled during your Trial Period.

*If the contract is terminated before the two-week period is up, by the provider for non-compliance with this agreement/contract and the points herein, then the parent WILL LOSE THEIR DEPOSIT.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Val’s Butterfly Garden Child Care is open 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Your specific day of care will be outlined in your Contract and Rate Agreement. Any hours outside of these hours can be discussed at the time of either the phone interview or home interview. Hours beyond my 8-5 timeframe are subject to availability, please don't hesitate to ask.  I require parents to outline a scheduled 9 hour day of care.  If you need a longer contracted day, please ask.  An additional fee applies.

I require two-week's notice if you need to change your enrolment hours. I also reserve the right to terminate if the new hours will not work well for my childcare business.

If your child does not arrive by your contracted drop-off time, I will assume your child is not attending, unless alternate arrangements have been made. If I am not available after that time, it is your responsibility to find alternate care for the day.

In order for me to be the best provider that I can be, it is important to have adequate time to spend with my family. I plan my family activities around the times you have told me at the beginning of care. It is unfair to them if I am waiting for a child to be picked up when we have plans and need to be elsewhere. Thanks for your help and consideration in this. During incidents of something uncontrollable such as an accident or impassable road, I do understand and no fee would be charged in that circumstance, this is under my discretion.

OPEN DOOR POLICY

I maintain an open door policy for parents. This means that you are always welcome to call or drop in to see your children at any time during regular childcare hours. For safety reasons, it does NOT mean that the door is always unlocked. If we are not on the premises, a sign will be posted at the front door stating our location so you can easily find us. If the front door is locked, please use the side gates to access Val’s Butterfly Garden Childcare from the backyard entrance. The window at the base of the hill beside the house can be knocked on to let us know if you need any assistance to open the gate.

SUPPLIES

Parents must provide the following as applies:

It is easiest if a large pack of disposable diapers is here at all times (Diapers are kept in each child’s individual diapering bin), pull-ups for potty trainees (potty training pants that are disposable ONLY), 2 boxes wipes, minimum. I also need a change pad cover with your child’s name written on it (I used kushies pad covers for my children), one FULL change of seasonally appropriate clothes (more for babies & toddlers), appropriate outdoor coat/jacket, boots, hat, mittens, snow pants/waterproof rain pants, bottles of formula clearly labelled with child’s name, date, and must have cap to prevent contamination (please do not add cereal or medicine to formula!!), baby food jar with seal intact, hairbrush or comb in resealable bag with child’s name & sunscreen.

I will provide a basket for your child’s belongings and storage space for their toiletry items.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS

Val’s Butterfly Garden welcomes toys, games or movie’s from home on a limited basis. Sometimes children feel proud to bring something from home to share with their friends. I am not responsible for any loss or breakage of your child's personal items, so keep treasured items at home. All personal items must be clearly marked with the child's name. Little ones may naturally have a difficult time sharing with others, and it is even harder with their own special toys. If a child has brought a toy from home and is not able to share it, they will be expected to save it in their cubby. Exceptions being their security item which they are not required to share and may keep with them for comfort and naptime.

FEES, CHARGES & TAXES

Your fees will be contracted in your Fee & Rate agreement form. Monthly fee’s are due prior to the first week of the month in the form of post dated cheques made payable in two week increments. Fees are to be post dated payable on the Friday before each week of care. Val asks that post dated cheques for the month are handed over in advance of the month. All fees must be paid directly to Valerie Griffin or Paul Lamanna, from your hand to her/his hand. If it is not received by pick up time on the Friday before the first day of the month, there will be a $10 late charge for the first day & a $5 per day late fee until paid in full. Weekly fees are unaffected by Act of God closings such as snow, your child’s absence and holidays. Please make arrangements with me if your child will not be in attendance.

Security Deposit: A deposit equal to 1 week of care per child is due upon the signing of the agreed contract. If the decision is made to cancel by the parent(s) at a future date, before the child begins attending the Provider’s childcare, the deposit is forfeited.

This deposit will be applied to the last 1 week of care given by the Provider. (The last week of the 2-week notice). Your notice may not end mid week. The last week must be paid in full for the full week of contracted days. Also this deposit can be applied to any late fees or overtime or NSF Cheque charges accumulated by the parent(s). These fees will only be deducted with the parents notice via a handwritten/computer-generated note, dated and signed by both parties.

Each family must pay a $25 registration fee per child upon enrollment. This is to defray the costs of advertising, supplies and other expenses involved in running my business.

All cheques are to be made payable to Valerie Griffin. If a cheque is returned to me for non-sufficient funds or for any reason, you will be required to pay a $20 service fee and all additional fees that I may incur as a result of the returned cheque. A cash payment of the due fees as well as the penalty charges incurred is due the following day. Childcare services will be immediately halted until full payment of the weekly fee and NSF charges has been made, in CASH. In addition, I reserve the right to require all future payments in cash, or I have the option of terminating care immediately.

Any children dropped off prior to their contracted drop off time, or picked up later than their contracted pick up time will be charged a late fee: $5.00 for the 1st 15 minutes and $1 a minute each additional minute. Pick up person will sign off in my log. If this occurs in a consistent manner, our agreement can be terminated at my discretion.

Fee’s may be subject to a premium rate which will be agreed upon and contracted. Daily fee’s are offered for families accepting a full part-time position of 2 or 3 regularly contracted days a week thereby filling a space or half of a regular space. For single contracted days or irregular schedules , the fee’s are slightly higher.

I claim my fees as income and provide each family with a detailed tax receipt at the end of each tax year. This will be prepared in January each year or when services are terminated and given to you upon your request. You may request a statement at any time.

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

Children are to arrive clean (meaning no over-night diapers please) dressed and fed (unless arriving just before a mealtime). It is normal for some children to have difficulty separating from parents, or cry when being dropped off. Please be very brief during drop-off times; the longer you prolong the departure the harder it gets. When a smile, cheerful good-bye kiss, and a reassuring word that you will be back are made routine, your child will grow to understand what to expect from “goodbye time” and build confidence that you will return.

I will try my best to send your child home with a clean diaper, and would appreciate the same consideration when you drop off. During arrivals and departures, I expect you to reinforce my rules, but if you do not, I will remind your child that their behaviour is inappropriate (when necessary) and take action to correct, if needed. Please be responsible for your child during drop off and pick-ups.

I prefer that there are no pick ups or drop offs during the designated daily quiet time 12:30-3:00, but if it is necessary please be as quiet and brief as possible. Children who arrive during quiet time will be expected to remain quiet (they may play/read quietly) until quiet time is over, so that others will not be disrupted from their naps. Do not allow your child to run out to your car while you are still inside or while you are in my backyard! The safety rule is "No going outside without your parent." If this does occur when you are on my property, you assume responsibility of your child’s safety and well-being.

Only a parent, guardian or other authorized person may pick up your child. If a person shows up to pick up your child and is not on your emergency contact/authorized persons list, they will NOT be allowed to remove the child from my home and late fees will apply if necessary. If someone other than the parent is to pick up the child, please notify me ahead of time. A verbal notice is fine on that day if this person is on the list of people who are authorized to pick up your child. If the person is NOT on that list, I MUST have written permission to release your child. Please inform emergency contacts, or people designated to pick up your child, that if I do not know them, I would require photo identification. This is simply a measure taken for your child's protection. I will not let a child leave without a parent's verbal permission even if that person is listed as one of your designated pickup people, so please keep me informed.

CUSTODY/DOMESTIC CONCERNS

As your childcare provider, I need to be made aware of any and all concerns regarding your child. If there is a custody situation and one parent is not allowed to pick up the child, I need to have a copy of the court order on file here. Without that, I will have to release your child if the parent arrives. Also, if you are concerned that a person may attempt to remove your child from my care without your authorization, I need to know that as well so we can best decide how to handle the situation and not place anyone in harms way.

CHILD ABUSE

As a childcare professional, I am required to report any form of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse of any child in my care. I have been trained in the recognition of all forms of abuse. If I see any suspected signs of abuse, I will notify the child’s parents immediately both verbally and in writing, along with a full description of the symptom. I will document the same for my own files, and contact the Children’s Aid Society if necessary.

If anything happens to your child while in my care, I will tell you how the injury was sustained as soon as possible. This is both to keep you informed and to also protect my self from mistaken suspicion of abuse. I will complete an accident report for your reference that will be kept in my files.

ZERO TOLERANCE

Please do not come to my house under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or any medication that impairs your ability to operate a vehicle or care for your child. If you do, I cannot legally keep your child from you, but I will contact the authorities.

PETS

This is a pet free home. This year we bid farewell to our adored cats Oscar and Lola. Please be advised that although we are now a pet free home, there may be traces of dander.

SIGNING IN & OUT

I log when parents drop off & pick up each day. This gives me a written record of the child's attendance, hours, and the person who brought/picked up the child each day. I sign the time you are walking out of the door with your child. Some families take a great deal of time to leave at the end of the day, and the time that you are walking out is a better reflection of the length of time that your child has been here.

ABSENCES

There will be no refunds or adjustments made to your child care fee for your time missed due to; holidays, or days off outside of your contracted vacation days. A place has been reserved for each child that cannot be filled on a short-term basis. Your daily fee will be applicable in order to maintain current enrolment with Val’s Butterfly Garden Child Care.

If your child becomes ill during care and a call has been placed for you to pick them up, full payment is still required. Ideally you will call ahead and keep your sick child at home to prevent me from inevitably having to call you to come and pick up your child. Children want their own Mommy &  Daddy and the comfort of their own bed instead of the childcares. If you don’t know if your child is too sick to attend, check out Val’s Butterfly Garden Illness Chart for Parents or give me a quick call. If they cannot participate in our daily activities they should be at home. We spend a lot of time outdoors in all weather, and it’s not fair to the healthy children/families or me. Granted sometimes children becoming ill is not convenient for parents but you wouldn’t want your healthy child exposed either. Remember clear runny nose is ok; once it becomes thick/colored they need to be home.

Although I will make every attempt to be available each day, there will be occasions when another family member or I are ill and I am unable to provide service. You will be notified as soon as possible of any personal or family illness, funeral, or emergency. It will be your responsibility to obtain substitute care on such occasions and to arrange payment to the substitute. If I am unable to provide care for any of these reasons, I will credit your next week of care day per day if they go beyond my contracted paid days off. I strongly suggest that you have a family member, a friend, or a substitute provider lined up for the times I am closed due to illness or emergency.

BACK-UP PROVIDER

Each family must have a backup provider that they can call in the event that I need to close. Family childcare is an illness prone profession and my family will and does get sick. If that happens, I will close to prevent the illness from spreading further. This is to help your family, not hurt you. Please ensure that you have back-up care available to you. I can never know when to expect an emergency or when my family or I may become ill. The amount of notice I can give you is never known, and I may have to call you in the wee hours of the morning. Please be prepared so fewer conflicts arise. This is your responsibility.

My back up providers are:

Rose Lamanna: My Mother In Law whom I trust to no end and has a wonderful rapport with children. With years of experience with her own three children, she also regularly cares for the children of her very extensive family and friends. As a doting Grandma, Rose also comes here for regular visits.

Shirley Sullivan: My Mother whom owned and operated her own home based childcare for over 20 years and has also been an integral contributor to such web resources as www.kidtips.com and www.child-caretips.com when they were online. She is also a regular visitor here, and the children call her “Meema”.

Paul Lamanna: My husband who contributed numerous hours over the years as a volunteer for YMCA Children’s Services in the Childcare classrooms as well as coaching children's sports teams. Did I mention that he is also an exceptional Daddy?

DAILY SCHEDULE

Young children, toddlers and babies enjoy a structured schedule that allows for flexibility. A schedule helps the day to flow more smoothly, allow the children to anticipate coming events, and aids in achieving a variety of goals. Please ask about my email update journals, these journals are completed on a ‘can-do’ basis. Refer to our Daily Schedule page to see an open ended summary of how our day unfolds.

MEALS

I offer nutritious well-balanced meals for lunch and snacks. If your child will be arriving after meal time please be sure they are fed as I do not serve meals outside of my scheduled times. I believe mealtime should be a pleasant time; therefore, children are always offered food but are not forced to eat it. I do encourage each child to try one or two bites of everything, and they must try a little of everything before given seconds of anything. Sometimes they are surprised by what they like! We eat at designated meal/snack times, so if a child refuses to eat at a meal time, they will have another opportunity to eat during the next designated meal time, not before.

Except for special occasions and when requested, please do not send any candy, gum or any other individual snack food or drink. We must be very respectful of food allergies!

CLEANLINESS & HYGIENE

I do my best to maintain strict cleanliness and hygiene standards. Children's hands are washed before and after meals and after toileting. I wash my hands frequently and also use antibacterial gel. Infants sleep in separate playpens, with clean sheets used only by them. Children use separate cups, plates, bowls and eating utensils that have been washed in the dishwasher and dried on the heat setting. High chair trays, tables, etc. are disinfected with a bleach water solution after each use. Toys are disinfected on a regular basis.

TOILET TRAINING

Toilet training will be done in a relaxed manner with the cooperation of the family. If potty training begins when your child is ready, the task is easy and quick. If a parent undertakes the task of potty training when they want it to happen, the task is arduous for all concerned. Thirty months of age is a good rule of thumb to start checking for signs of readiness. Children may have successes earlier which is generally understood to be an adult led success. When we agree that the time is right for your child and until he/she is totally successful in his/her toileting, he/she should wear clothes that promote their independence. In addition, your child must have two complete changes of clothes (don't forget the socks and shoes!) The best items are shorts and pants with elastic waists, or dresses. Try to avoid really tight clothing, pants with snaps and zippers and belts, overalls, and onesies. These are difficult for children to remove "in a hurry". Do not bring your child in panties or underwear until he/she has naptime and bedtime control established.

I ask that you begin toilet training at home during a weekend or vacation. I will follow through and encourage your child while in my care. I use preventative measures such as regular visits to “try to go”, where the child must sit and “see if anything is ready to come out”. Visits to the potty are not a choice, but it’s okay if nothing does come out. Children are praised for trying. When a child is ready, the process should go pretty quickly. If your child does not have immediate success, he/she will be put back into diapers, and after a respite, the process will be attempted again. The child must be kept in pull-ups or 5-ply training pants at all times. Putting a child in diapers part time, and training pants part time, can be confusing and delay the training process. Please keep in mind that the activity level here can distract your child from responding to an urge to use the potty, more so than at your home. Therefore, I will continue to use diapers or pull-ups until your child can and will announce that he/she must use the bathroom (not just at home, but here, as well) and can control his/her bladder and bowels for a few minutes beyond that announcement. Your child's readiness is something we can discuss because consistency between our homes will be very important. This is a special time for your child, a sign that he/she is growing up. Toilet training should be a good experience.

NAPS &  QUIET TIME

All children are required to lie down for a rest period in the afternoon. 12:00-2:45. All children must nap, rest, read or play quietly during this period. Children will be resting on their beds for 1 full hour; those who do not sleep will be offered a quiet activity after an hour of quiet rest time. Rest time gives everyone a much-needed break during the day. Without rest time, some children are argumentative in the afternoon, short-tempered with others, and not real happy when they go home in the evening. Naptime is my only opportunity to take a break, clean up after lunch, etc. If your child has a special blanket or stuffed animal that he/she sleeps with, please send it along. I would ask that you please avoid picking up or dropping off your child during naptime, as it disturbs the other children's rest period. Please send a favourite blanket for your child to sleep with on Monday, the blanket will be sent home to be washed on Friday. Older children may enjoy a quiet movie during rest time.

Infants nap at varying times and their schedules will be accommodated. Somewhere between 12 and 18 months, children usually drop down to one nap per day. At this time, I will attempt to put them on the scheduled nap/rest period.

ACTIVITIES &  CURRICULUM

The main goal of this childcare is for children to have fun, improve social skills, and be given opportunities to explore their environment and discover their potential. I will utilize a variety of activities to accomplish this goal. Free play, reading, arts and crafts, music/singing, dancing, dramatic play/pretend, puzzles, and educational TV/videos are just some of the activities we will be doing. Music helps to develop young brains and will play a strong role in day-to-day activities. We may have special music activities and may also play music during other activities, for example, during arts and crafts or meal times.

INDOOR &  OUTDOOR PLAY

Indoor play: I provide a variety of age-appropriate toys for indoor play. Toys may be rotated or placed temporarily out of use so that the children do not become bored. Younger children have less-developed organizational skills and can get easily frustrated or upset when there are too many toys to choose from. It is also more difficult for them to help with clean up, when there are toys everywhere, because it is so overwhelming to them. For this reason, during free play times, children are encouraged to tidy up their activity before choosing a new one. They will be shown how to put those things away before selecting something else.

Outdoor play: We play outdoors frequently. Please make sure that your child has outdoor clothes (appropriate for the weather) available at all times. It only takes one child dressed inappropriately for the weather, to keep everyone else from enjoying an outdoor experience. Our activities will include taking walks, backyard playground (climbers, slides, balls, water tables), water play (sprinkler or wading pool in summer), bike/toy riding, and more. During spring and fall, our outdoor play will probably range from 20 - 45 minutes, and in the summer it may be two hours or more long (maybe not all at once). Our daily outings for school drop offs and pick ups also provide us with outdoor time with our friends.  We are also fortunate to boast a “gross motor” or large muscle playspace indoors! Our basement has plenty of open space for physical games, and dramatic play area’s for those cold, extremely hot or rainy days!

BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT

My behaviour management philosophy is that children need guidance, understanding, and a few easy-to-follow rules in order to learn appropriate behaviour. It is our policy to help children learn appropriate behaviour by establishing clear limits, explaining those limits in a positive way when it is necessary for a child to understand why the limit is there, and by using a combination of behaviour management strategies when dealing with behaviour. I achieve this through consistency.

The following behaviour management strategies are used:

· Encourage children to solve problems themselves


· Intervention and discussion/problem solving


· Re-direction to another play area


· Loss of privileges


· Time out to play independently with a quiet activity

I stress two main patterns of behaviour: respect for other people and respect for property. Our 3 simple rules, posted in each of the areas used by the children, encompass our philosophy: (1) you may not hurt yourself (2) you may not hurt others, and (3) you may not hurt things, furniture, toys, etc.

If I feel there is a chronic behavioural issue that needs attention, I will let you know so that you and I are handling it in the same way and your child has continuity in discipline between our homes. These types of behaviours might include such things as biting, use of bad words, chronic hitting, etc.

Together, we will try to find a solution, however, children who cannot be managed using these measures and are consistently presenting a discipline problem for the caregiver will be required to withdraw from care. Other arrangements for the care of the child will have to be made, for the safety and well being of all. Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES will there be any spanking, physical abuse, verbal abuse, name-calling or isolation used. Neither food nor sleep will ever be withheld from children as a means of punishment.

DAMAGES

I believe that children should be taught respect for other people’s property, and if your child damages my property or another child’s property intentionally or because of excessive roughness, you, the parent, will be responsible for replacing it.

HEALTH POLICY

If you have any doubt to whether your child can participate in our daily activities, please keep him/her home. If your child becomes ill while you are at work, I will contact you and separate them from the rest of the group. You have 2 hours to pick your child up before I will contact one of your emergency contacts. If your child has been to the doctor for a reason related to illness or is taking a medication of any kind, I must be informed. This is not cause for exclusion, but enables me to give the best care possible.

This is a non-smoking home, and I allow no smoking in my house at any time.

SYMPTOMS REQUIRING REMOVAL OF CHILD FROM CHILD CARE
* Fever: Fever is defined as having a temperature over 100.1°F taken in the ear. A child needs to be fever free for a minimum of 24 hours before returning to childcare; that means the child is fever free without the aid of Tylenol or any other fever reducing substance.

* Diarrhea: runny or watery stools, or 2 or more loose stools within last 4 hours.

· As for infants with fevers and/or diarrhea and as it pertains to teething, I will only accept a child with these symptoms back into care after the child has seen a doctor and a note is sent from the doctor stating that these symptoms are due to teething.

* Vomiting

* Runny nose: Your child may be brought to care if he/she has a common cold (slight cough, clear runny nose, occasional sneezing). Discharge of any colour other than clear is not acceptable in childcare.

* Runny and/or Crusty Eyes: Watery, matted, and/or red/pink eyes are not acceptable in childcare.

Unexplained Rash

* Excessive Crankiness: Child is irritable, excessive whining or crying, wants constantly held, or requires more attention than I can provide without jeopardizing the health, safety, or well being of the other children in my care.

Your child cannot be permitted into childcare if he/she has had any of the above symptoms within the last 24 hours. A sick child should be allowed to recover fully after an illness so that other children in the group do not risk exposure and so that the child is able to fully participate in childcare activities. If you are unable to remain at home with your sick child it will be necessary for you to make substitute child care arrangements at your own expense. If your child becomes ill while in my care, I will notify you immediately. You are required to pick up your child within 60 minutes of notification. If you cannot be reached then your emergency contact will be called. I reserve the right to determine when a child should be sent home due to illness. Children may return to care 24 hours after symptoms of illness end or with written authorization from your doctor stating the name of illness and when child may return to group care. Please notify me as soon as possible when your child becomes ill so that I may notify the other parents.

If your child is thought to have a communicable disease, you will be notified and asked to pick him/her up. He/she will be isolated from the other children and given special attention and comfort until you arrive. Your child will be accepted back into care when no longer contagious. All other parents will be notified of the possibility of a communicable disease and what symptoms to watch for. If someone in my family has any of the above symptoms, I will call you the previous evening, or as soon as I am aware of the situation, so that you may determine whether or not you want your child exposed to such symptoms. However, I reserve the right to ask you to make other arrangements if I feel the illness in my family will hinder the quality of care for your child.

If I specifically request that you find alternate care on any given day, then I will not require payment. However absences by your choice qualify as your sick or absent days and are to be paid as stated above. I do not expect to be paid when I am not available for care due to my illness; beyond my 5 allotted paid sick days. However, I have set aside time in my schedule to accommodate your schedule and feel that I should be compensated for the time that I am available. Many times the childcare may get blamed for the illness of a child, meaning that I have "allowed" sick children to come here. Parents may not stop to think that when sick children are brought to my home, my entire family is also at risk of exposure. How would you feel if another parent brought their sick child and exposed your child? I will always respect your need to be at work. I ask, however, that when deciding if your child should be at home, you give consideration to the other children. Ask yourself how you would feel if another child were as ill as your child. Would you want your well child exposed to these symptoms?

Further, there are times when a child is not that ill, but is terribly uncomfortable, and really needs some "one on one". At those times I strongly urge you to consider keeping your child at home. If your child is unable to participate in the normal activities of the daily schedule, then your child must stay home.

MEDICATIONS

Both non-prescription and prescription medications, ointments, and creams can be administered to your child if needed. Parents are required to fill out the proper forms and to supply all medications in their original containers. All written instructions shall be valid for six months unless the physician, dentist, or parent designates a shorter time period. These must be labelled with the child's name. NO EXCEPTIONS! I may not exceed the manufacturer's recommended dosage unless with written physician's instructions when administering non-prescription medication. I may not administer non-prescription oral medication for longer than 3 consecutive days. I may not administer non-prescription topical ointments, creams, or lotions for longer than 14 consecutive days when used for skin irritations. I am required to keep a bottle of Syrup of Ipecac in my First Aid Kit. I may administer this only when following verbal instructions of the poison control centre or a licensed physician. I must be informed when your child is on medication that has been administered at home.

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

In case of EMERGENCY, I will administer the necessary first aid. Your child will be transported to the hospital designated on your Emergency Transportation Authorization form. YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED IMMEDIATELY. If an ambulance is called to transport your child, the cost of the ambulance will be your responsibility. I am prepared with emergency caregivers in cases of unplanned absences of short duration caused by unanticipated circumstances such as illness or accident. You will be notified when an emergency caregiver will be used. If an emergency caregiver cannot be located, you may be requested to pick up your children. You are responsible for all costs involved in emergency medical treatment, including emergency transportation, if required.

FIRE SAFETY

I have a written fire evacuation plan and practice a fire drill with the children at times. In addition, I incorporate fire safety curriculum into my program occasionally.

FIELD TRIPS

I will let you know in advance of all special field trips, but local trips will be made from time to time without notice given. You may be requested to provide a car seat for the day and/or pay any fees associated with the trip. You will be required to sign a permission slip that I will carry with me. I also carry copies of the emergency forms with a picture of each child attached. In the event of an emergency away from the childcare home, your child will be cared for and you will be notified. It is not required that your child attends the field trip, but it will be your responsibility to find and pay for alternate care if you do not wish for them to attend. You still pay your regular child care fees. All children are buckled securely, or in child seats if required. If I know we will be taking a trip and need one for your child, I will let you know at drop-off. Field trips give us a better understanding of the world around us and enrich our learning experiences. It is for this reason, that I have had Toronto Zoo and Canada's Wonderland memberships in the past.

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION 
If your child requires transportation to and/or from school, we will use the route of least resistance. The group will be led by foot, or by vehicle by this route:

Leaving Vals house at 6 Calmar…

Turn Right onto Billingham Hts, Turn Right onto Birkshire, Follow Birkshire all the way to the school and back.

For each child in my care, You will need to provide me with a new booster seat or car seat that can stay in my vehicle for the duration of the school year. If you prefer to provide me with cash, then I can purchase one for you. It must be new to prevent injuries that may occur from a second hand carseat or booster seat.

Val will always carry a pouch with her cell phone when away from the house. You will be provided with several emergency contact cards so that you can easily find and use this number if needed.

MATERNITY/EXTENDED LEAVE

In cases of your potential absence due to maternity or extended leave from your job, I still require full childcare rate payments for the entire time of your absence to hold your child's position. In cases of maternity leave where you will be placing your new baby into my care, you will be required to fill out all necessary enrolment forms no less than two weeks prior to the baby's starting date.


TERMINATION POLICY

I reserve the right to immediately terminate for the following reasons:

· If a parent does not make scheduled payments

· If a scheduled payment cheque is returned for non-sufficient funds

· Failure to abide by my policies as outlined in this handbook

· Physical or verbal abuse of any person or property

· If a child becomes a danger to the other children

· Failure to complete the required forms

· False information given by parent either verbally or in writing

- Failure to inform me of when a child has been medicated prior to being left in my care

I reserve the right to terminate with notice for the following reasons (but not limited to):

· Lack of parental cooperation

· Failure of child to adjust to the childcare after a reasonable amount of time

· my inability to meet the child's needs

· serious illness of child or provider

I appreciate as much advance notice as possible when terminating, and will give the same courtesy in return. You are required to give two-week's written notice when you decide to terminate childcare. The two weeks will be paid in full, regardless of whether or not your child is in attendance. Your pre-paid security deposit will pay for the last week of care. If the Provider is not given a two-week notice the parent(s) will be charged for that two weeks of service and the deposit will then be forfeited. I will give two-week's written notice of termination for which full tuition is due, whether or not your child is in attendance. I reserve the right to give written notice of immediate termination where there are extreme circumstances that affect the well being of me or other children in attendance. In this situation, the two-week's payment of tuition is still required. Termination notice will not be accepted while provider or parents are on vacation. You may pay two-week's fees in lieu of two-week's notice.

If violations of our agreement occur, immediate termination of care will occur. No notice is required. Care will be terminated immediately. In this instance, all fees will be due immediately. Your deposit will not be applied to care, and will be forfeited. All fees will be due up to and including the full week’s fees that you are being terminated. Failure to pay your fees after termination will result in legal action being taken to recover my fees from you.

REVISIONS TO HANDBOOK AND CONTRACT

There will be a yearly revision to this handbook and the accompanying contract. All families will sign a new contract each year. I reserve the right to make changes in rates and policies, as I deem necessary. You will be notified, in writing, of any changes that may occur. Every attempt will be made to give at least two-week's notice of change.
FEB 2010

Contract & Rate Agreement

CONTRACT AND RATE AGREEMENT


We (I), ______________________& ___________________, have received and read the Val’s Butterfly Garden Child Care Handbook of Policies and Procedures and will comply with all provisions contained therein, and shall at this time enter into an agreement with Valerie Griffin, of  Val’s Butterfly Garden Child Care for the care of my (our) child (ren)

Starting Date: __________________ Ending Date: _______________

Contracts are renewed: __________________

Child's Full Name: _________________________________

Date of Birth: ___________________________

The contracted days and hours are as follows:
Days Required:
M     T     W     TH     F
                                                Infant Daily Fee            $
                                               Toddler Daily Fee         $
                                               Preschool Daily Fee      $
                                               School-Age Daily Fee   $
                                               Nursery  Daily Fee        $

Extra slip will be attached for children with varying schedules

Monday ______ am/pm to ______ am/pm

Tuesday ______ am/pm to ______ am/pm

Wednesday ______ am/pm to ______ am/pm

Thursday ______ am/pm to ______ am/pm

Friday ______ am/pm to ______ am/pm

These rates will be charged regardless of the child's attendance.

Fees

The agreed upon fee for the Provider's services is stated above. Monthly fees are required to be paid to Val in the form of post dated cheques on the Friday preceding the first week of the month. The weekly fees are due and required to be post dated for the Friday before the week of care commences. If fees are not received on the Friday before the week of care commences, a $10 charge will be required with a $5 fee for each additional day that the payment continues to remain unpaid (including Saturday and Sunday). Any checks returned to the Provider NSF will be due in cash, with any accrued late fees and assessed bank charges. I understand that when my childcare fees are not paid in a timely fashion it may result in termination of care. I understand that upon any such termination, I will still owe my childcare provider any monies due to her for childcare services rendered and all other applicable fees.

The agreed upon pay schedule is as follows:

Monthly postdated cheques made payable in two week increments, payable the Friday before care commences.

Note: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Overtime

Overtime is considered any time outside the agreed time interval.

Drop-off before contracted hours of __________a.m. and pick-up __________p.m. The following charges will be assessed for overtime incurred, payable the same week of service per child.

$20.00 per hour per child for prearranged overtime (with a 24 hour notice) per child.

OR:

$5.00 for the first 15 minutes. $1 per each additional minute, when time wasn’t prearranged.

*These late fees are put into place to discourage early drop offs and late pick ups. Through my experience I have formed the belief that regular extra long days in childcare are not in the best interest of children.

The provider is under no obligation to provide an extension of time if it will conflict with plans. Late arrival does not justify late departure.

Lack of enforcement of a certain policy at any time does not indicate that the particular policy is no longer in effect.

Deposit

A deposit equal to 1 week of care per child is due upon the signing of the agreed contract. If the decision is made to cancel by the parent(s) at a future date, before the child begins attending the Provider's childcare, the deposit is forfeited.

This deposit will be applied to last 1 week of care given by the Provider. (The last week of the 2-week notice). Also this deposit can be applied to any late fees or overtime or NSF Cheque charges accumulated by the parent(s). These fees will only be deducted with the parents notice via a handwritten/computer-generated note, dated and signed by both parties.

Enrollment Start Date

Once the contract is signed and care does not commence within that first month, 1 week of daycare payment per month is required to hold your child’s spot in post dated cheques as per your contracted fees until the actual start date of care commences.

Illness

The provider will not accept any child (ren) in her care if the child (ren) has any of the following: vomiting, diarrhea, or temperature over 101 degrees. If a child develops any of the previous, the parent(s) will be contacted. It will be expected that the child (ren) will be picked up as soon as possible. You have 2 hours to pick your child up before I will contact your emergency contacts. If a child becomes ill but does not have any of the previous symptoms, the child (ren) will be made comfortable and the parent(s) will be contacted. The provider will have the option of requesting that the child be picked up.

If a child is ill: It is the parent’s responsibility to keep the ill child at home or to find an alternative arrangement. Bringing an ill child into childcare risks the health of all others in attendance and is unacceptable.

If the Provider is ill: If the Provider is ill the parent(s) will be notified immediately that care for the child (ren) will not be available due to illness so that the parent(s) can find alternative care for the child (ren). Full fees required for a maximum of 5 sick days per calendar yr. The Provider will not be paid for any days that exceed the 5 allotted sick days. The parent is responsible for finding back-up care.

Vacations

A. Parent(s) are to give the provider ample notice when taking a vacation (meaning at least 2 weeks written notice). Please leave childcare payments with me prior to your departure. I will hold these cheques until the appropriate dates. Your regular fee will be required to hold your place until you return.

B. The Provider will take three weeks unpaid vacation (15 days off per year). The parent(s) will be given ample notice (meaning at least 2 weeks written notice) so that the parent(s) can make alternative arrangements for care of the child (ren). It is the responsibility of the Parents to find alternate care. You will not be charged for when I am off, however, I may request a “long weekend” or schedule individual days instead of a full week at a time. You will be notified of this instance once I confirm plans.

Personal Days

Parents will be notified in writing (at least 2 weeks notice) what specific days (6 in total) will be taken by the Provider without pay.  In cases of tragedy or sudden loss of a loved one, you will be given as much notice as possible given the circumstances.

Back Up Child Care

Parents are responsible for finding back up childcare. Please ensure that you have back-up care available to you. I can never know when to expect an emergency or when my family or I may become ill. The amount of notice I can give you is never known, and I may have to call you in the wee hours of the morning. Please be prepared so fewer conflicts arise. This is your responsibility.

Holidays

I will not provide care on any major holidays. Val’s Butterfly Garden Child Care will be closed and regular payment for these observed holidays will be charged. Even if you are taking time off at Christmas, these fees will be due. They are major holidays and I am closed regardless of your vacation schedule.

The Parent(s) will pay for the following dates if care falls on these dates: Some dates will be changed to reflect the day of closure.

Christmas Eve Day
Christmas Day
Boxing Day
Family Day
New Years Eve
New Years Day
Good Friday
Easter Monday
Victoria Day
Canada Day
Civic Holiday
Labour Day
Thanksgiving

Please arrange for back-up care if needed. I can provide you with the number of a backup provider if you are in need. I cannot guarantee her availability. You will also be responsible for payment of her fees for those days as well.

These are paid holidays and your fee will not be reduced during my closure for these Holidays. Please note that if you intend on taking holidays during this time, my regular fee for the Statutory Holidays is still due, and you will only need to use the excess amount of days required for your vacation. These days are paid and the appropriate (2 weeks) written notice is required for anything over 1 day off.

Clothing

The child (ren) must be dressed appropriately for the weather. The child (ren) must also be dressed for normal daily activities. The parent(s) should provide a change of clothing in case of an accident. I also require hats (per season) and mitts that will stay here for use while in care.

TV note

The children will watch some educational, entertaining shows that are age appropriate, however, I will limit the time they do spend watching. The TV is occassionally used as a transitional activity (during menu preparations or pick-up/drop-off time) or for quiet time for older children.

Damages

While we all realize there will be wear and tear on all the childcare equipment, if your child intentionally damages our toys, furnishings, equipment or property, through destructive behaviour or roughness, you will be liable for the damages.

Termination

Either parent(s) or the Provider may terminate this Agreement by giving a two-week written notice to the other party. Payment will be required for those two weeks, whether your child continues in my care or not. If the Provider is not given a two-week notice the parent(s) will be charged for that two weeks of service and the deposit will then be forfeited.

If violations of this agreement occur, immediate termination of care will occur. No notice is required. Care will be terminated immediately. In this instance, all fees will be due immediately. Your deposit will not be applied to care, and will be forfeited. All fees will be due up to and including the full week’s fees that you are being terminated. Failure to pay your fees after termination will result in legal action being taken to recover my fees from you.

Probation

There will be a two-week probation period for Full Time children and a one-month probation for Part Time children after the start date of the child (ren). Either the parent(s) or the Provider may terminate the agreement during this period. During these two weeks, if either the provider or the parent terminates from care, fees are due up to and including the final day of the second week. If the contract is terminated before the two-week period is up, by the provider for non-compliance with this agreement/contract and the points herein, then the parent WILL LOSE THEIR DEPOSIT. If the parent terminates, with just cause, after the initial “trial period” the deposit will be used toward their last week of care.

Pets

The childcare provider has no pets. I am aware that previously, there were 2 cats living in the home and as a result, some cat dander may exist.

Supplies

Please provide (as applies) 2 boxes of wipes per child and adequate diapers for my two change stations.

Any special dietary food required by your child (ren), and a toothbrush if you wish your child to brush after lunch.

The following documentation was shown by Val’s Butterfly Garden Child Care to the Family:
*  Val’s Butterfly Garden Child Care Handbook
*  Early Childhood Education Diploma

A 1 Week Deposit of $___________ was received to hold a spot for the above child (ren).

And if applicable post dated cheques in the amount of $________per week/or month were received until care commences.

Childcare fees are due and payable on the first day that care commences.

I / We agree not to hold Valerie Griffin or anyone in her household or acting as backup provider liable for accidental injury to my child/(ren), which may be incurred during the daily operation of providing childcare.

I/We agree to abide by the written terms of this Contract/Financial Agreement. The provider may amend any terms and must give the parent’s at least 2-weeks notice of any change.


Date: ____________


____________________________________________________
Provider Signature


_____________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature


_____________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature


By signing the above, the Parent/Guardian(s) are acknowledging they have read and agree to the above contract and the Parents Handbook/Policies

Rates effective beginning September 2009
Rates are renewed on your anniversary start date, and all fees are applicable to a 5% yearly increase every January.