Robins Nest Childcare Parent Handbook

Welcome to Robin's Nest Childcare!

We are delighted to have your family join our childcare community. This Parent Handbook is designed to provide you with important information about our childcare program, policies, and procedures. Please read it carefully and keep it handy for reference.

Mission Statement:

At Robin's Nest Childcare, our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. We are dedicated to supporting the development of each child's physical, emotional, social, and intellectual well-being.

Philosophy:

Our childcare program is founded on the principles of respect, empathy, and individualized care. We believe that every child is unique and deserves to be treated with love and understanding.

Program Goals:

Foster a love for learning through age-appropriate activities.

  • Promote social and emotional development.

  • Ensure a safe and stimulating environment.

  • Encourage healthy eating habits and physical activity.

  • Develop strong partnerships with parents.

2. Hours of Operation

Regular Hours:

Monday - Friday: 7AM - 6PM

Holidays and Closures: April-September 2025 (October 2025-February 2026 announced in July)

  • April 2025

    • Personal days: Friday, April 18, Monday, April 21st.

    • May 2025

      • Memorial Day: Monday, May 26, 2025

      • Personal day: Friday, May 30th

    • June 2025

      • Juneteenth: Thursday, June 19, 2025

      • Vacation: Monday, June 30th (vacation)

    • July 2025

      • Vacation: June 30th -July 11th

    • August 2025

      • No closures scheduled for this month.

    • September 2025

      • Labor Day: Monday, September 1, 2025

  6. In case of inclement weather or other emergencies, we may need to close. Notice will be provided as early as possible in such cases.

  7. 2 weeks vacation announced in the spring

Emergency Procedures:

In the event of an emergency, we will follow our established emergency procedures to ensure the safety of all children and staff. These procedures include evacuation plans and first aid protocols.

3. Enrollment

Admission Requirements:

To enroll your child, please ensure that they meet the following requirements:

  • Age: [5 months - 5 years old]

  • Immunization Records: Up-to-date immunization records must be provided.

  • Health Form: A completed Child Health Information Form is required.

  • Enrollment Fee: A non-refundable enrollment fee is due upon registration.

Enrollment Process:

  • Contact the provider to schedule a tour.

  • Complete all necessary enrollment forms.

  • Submit required documents and fees.

  • Attend an orientation meeting.

Tuition and Payment Policies:

  • Tuition fees are due on Fridays. You must pre pay for the week of care.

  • Late fees may apply for overdue payments.

  • Tuition rates are subject to change with notice.

  • We accept Debit cards, Venmo, Paypal, Applepay and cash. We accept subsidies and Child Action.

4. Childcare Program

Curriculum and Learning Environment:

  • Our curriculum is designed to support age-appropriate development.

  • Activities include arts and crafts, sensory play, storytelling, reading, music and movement, science activities math and counting games etc.

  • We encourage creative expression, exploration, and problem-solving.

Daily Schedule:

    • A typical day includes:

    • Arrival and breakfast

    • Playtime and learning activities

    • Snack and outdoor play

    • Lunch and naptime

    • Afternoon activities

    • Departure

Meals and Snacks:

  • Meals and snacks are provided Breakfast, morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack.

  • We accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies.

  • Children are encouraged to try a variety of foods.

Health and Safety:

  • Ill children will not be admitted to the childcare.

  • Handwashing is enforced.

  • Safety measures are in place, including childproofing and supervision.

5. Communication

Parent-Provider Communication:

  • Open communication is essential. Feel free to discuss any concerns or questions.

  • We will provide daily reports on your child's activities and behaviors.

Updates and Notifications:

  • Stay informed about important updates and events through emails, newsletters, and notices posted in the daycare.

Parent-Teacher Conferences:

  • Periodic meetings will be scheduled to discuss your child's progress and development.

6. Policies and Procedures

Attendance and Punctuality:

  • Please inform us of planned absences.

  • Tardiness disrupts the daily routine.

Illness Policy:

  • Children with contagious illnesses must stay home.

  • Children must be fever-free for 24 hours before returning.

Medication Policy:

  • Medication can be administered with written consent and instructions.

  • Prescription medication must be in its original container.

Behavior Expectations:

  • We promote positive behavior through praise and rewards.

  • Consistent rules and consequences are in place.

Discipline Policy:

  • We use positive discipline techniques.

  • Physical punishment is strictly prohibited.

7. Drop-off and Pick-up Procedures

Authorized Pick-up List:

  • Only authorized individuals listed in your child's records may pick them up.

Sign-in and Sign-out:

  • Please sign your child in and out each day.

  • Provide the expected arrival and departure times.

Late Pick-up Policy:

  • Late pick-up fees apply for children not picked up by closing time.

8. Emergency Procedures

Emergency Contact Information:

  • Keep your contact information up-to-date.

  • Provide alternate emergency contacts.

Evacuation Plan:

  • In case of emergency, we have a designated evacuation route.

First Aid and Emergency Medical Care:

  • Trained staff will administer first aid as needed.

  • In serious emergencies, we will call 911.

9. Childcare Supplies

What to Bring:

  • Diapers, wipes, and spare clothing

  • Comfort items (blankets, pacifiers)

  • Weather-appropriate clothing

Labeling Items:

  • Label all personal belongings with your child's name.

Personal Belongings:

  • We cannot be responsible for lost or damaged items.

10. Termination Policy

Notice Requirements:

  • 2 weeks' notice is required for withdrawal.

  • Failure to give notice may result in tuition charges.

Disenrollment Procedure:

  • Return any borrowed items.

  • Complete the disenrollment process with the provider

11. Parent Involvement

Parent Participation:

  • We welcome parents to participate in special events and activities.

  • Volunteer opportunities are available.

Feedback and Suggestions:

  • Your input helps us improve our program.

12. Confidentiality

Privacy and Confidentiality:

  • We respect your privacy and will protect your child's information.

13. Appendix

Emergency Contact Information Form

  • Fill out this form with updated contact information.

Child Health Information Form

  • Provide essential health information about your child.

Medication Authorization Form

  • Use this form to authorize medication administration if necessary.

    Please remember that this Parent Handbook is subject to updates and revisions. We are committed to providing the best possible care for your child and fostering a positive and collaborative relationship with your family. Thank you for choosing Robin's Nest Childcare.

If you have any questions or need further clarification on any policies or procedures, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We look forward to a wonderful childcare experience with your family!

Sincerely,

Robin Craft

Robin's Nest Childcare

279-248-7740