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FAMILY HANDBOOK
INDIANA UNIVERSITY SOUTHEAST
CHILDREN’S CENTER
4201 Grant Line Road
New Albany, IN 47150
Office: 812-941-2402
Other: 812-981-8698
IUSPD 812-941-2400;
(University Center North, Room 27)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ius.edu/childrens-center
Licensed Facility
Indiana Family and Social
Services Administration
http://www.in.gov/fssa/
(Revised 07/2016)
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IUS Children’s Center Table of Contents
Calendar 4
Hours of Operation 4
Welcome to IUS Children’s Center
Mission Statement 5
History of IUSCC 5
Educational Philosophy Statement 5
Goals and Objectives 6
Payments and Fees 7
Staff to Child Ratios 8
Enrollment and Registration 8
State Regulations 8
Children’s Files 9
Attendance
Arrival and Departure 9
Absences 10
Vacations 10
Release of Child 10
Late Pick-up Notice & Fee 10
Custody 10
Intoxicated or Impaired Person 10
Curriculum 11
Teacher/Staff Role 11
Children with Special Needs 11
Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) & Individual Education Plan (IEP) 11-12
Diversity Statement 13
Statement of Non-Discrimination 13
IU Equal Employment (Enrollment) Opportunity 13
Affirmative Action Policy
Behavior/Discipline Policy 14
Your Child’s Day
Attire/Dress Code 15
Clothing and Personal Items 15
Outdoor Activities 16
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Backpack/Bag 16
What to Leave at Home 16
Meals and Snack s 16
Rest Time Philosophy 17
Birthdays 17
Celebrations and Holidays 17
Health and Safety Policies
Illness 17
Communicable Diseases 18
Medication 18
Physicals and Immunizations 18
Smoke Free Environment 19
No Idling Policy 19
Incidents and Accidents 19
Parental Notification 19
Biting Policy 20
Child Abuse and Neglect 21
Safety Precautions 21
Communication 22
Confidentiality 22
Developing Relationships with Families
Conduct Code 22
Family Responsibilities 23
Family Involvement 24
Advisory Committee 24
Pets 24
Withdrawal Procedures 24
Termination Policy 24
Emergency Closings 25
Emergency Evacuation Plan 25
Licensing Information 25
Tax Identification Number 25
FSSA CCDF Voucher Program 25
Parents Record 26
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IUS CHILDREN’S CENTER CALENDAR
2016-2017
MONDAY – SEPTEMBER 5, 2016 LABOR DAY
(Center Closed)
WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY; NOV. 23-25, 2016 THANKSGIVING BREAK
(Center Closed)
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21 - JANUARY 3, 2017 WINTER BREAK
(Center Closed)
WEDNESDAY- JANUARY 4, 2017 RE-OPEN
MARCH 27 – APRIL 2, 2017 IUS SPRING BREAK
(Center Closed)
MONDAY-MAY 29, 2017 MEMORIAL DAY
(Center Closed)
TUESDAY-JULY 4, 2017 INDEPENDENCE DAY
(Center Closed)
Please note: these dates are subject to change according to the IUS academic
calendar and renovations. The center closes for a 2 week winter break and
1 week spring break.
HOURS OF OPERATION The Center is open from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Please confirm
hours with the Center; hours are subject to change depending on semester
enrollment. The Center reserves the right to close between IUS semesters due to low
enrollment. All children are encouraged but not required to arrive at the Center by 8:45
am when preschool begins. Please pick up your child by closing time or a late fee will be
charged! We understand that emergencies can occur. Please call. The Center will
close/delay when the IUS closes/delays due to weather, natural cause, disaster, etc.
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WELCOME TO IUSCC
MISSION STATEMENT
The Campus Children’s Center provides the Indiana University community with quality
year-round child care for children three to nine years of age. The goal of IUS Children’s
Center is to promote the children’s healthy emotional, social, physical, and cognitive
growth and development by providing a child-centered, active learning environment.
HISTORY OF IUS CHILDREN’S CENTER
IUS Children’s Center opened in June 1978 with a grant from the Student Government
Association and continues to be funded by student activity fees. The Center served
staff, faculty and students at IUS. In the spring of 2012, the Center became licensed
through Indiana Family and Social Services Administration which enabled us to offer
child care services to the community. In the fall of 2013, the Center was granted Level
One status with Paths to Quality.
EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT
We believe that children learn through play, concrete experiences and peer/adult
interaction with the environment. We encourage children to develop to their full
potential by the use of individual, small and whole group activities.
While children do go through specific stages of development, each child grows and
learns at a pace that is individually specific. Age is not necessarily an accurate indicator
of development.
Preschool children are in the stage that Jean Piaget described as preoperational.
Characteristics of this stage include egocentricity, concrete thinking and the explosion
of language. The preoperational stage lasts until approximately age eight.
Extensive research shows that young children learn through their play and through their
active exploration of their environment. They construct their knowledge through the
manipulation of concrete materials and the stimulation of their five senses. Children
gain ownership of their learning in a child centered environment through their choices.
Our classrooms are arranged into learning centers to encourage the children to make
choices. These centers include but are not limited to creative arts, writing, literacy,
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blocks, discovery table and water, dramatic play, manipulatives, music, and an outdoor
learning environment.
The development of literacy is encouraged through an approach where the children
experience the various aspects of language through music, science, math, art, drama,
dance, literacy, reading and writing.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Each child at the Campus Children’s Center is viewed as an individual.
1. To encourage and foster the development of positive self esteem and self
worth.
2. To promote the development of each child into self-confident, risk-taking
learners for life.
3. To promote the development of positive social and emotional skills.
4. To promote the development of fine and gross motor skills.
5. To promote the development of cognitive and creative skills in the areas of
literacy, math, science, music, art and language development.
6. To promote the development of independence, self-reliance and self-
discipline.
7. To promote the development of positive communication skills.
8. To promote the development of sound health and nutrition.
9. To promote the appreciation of diversity in community.
10. To encourage each child to be a positive member of the community.
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PAYMENTS AND FEES
IUS Children’s Center Student Faculty/Staff Community
½ day – 4 hours and under $15.00 $20.00 ------
Full day – over 4 hours $30.00 $35.00 ------
2 Full days ------ ------ $80.00
3 Full days ------ ------ $110.00
Half week–20 hrs and under $60.00 $70.00 $80.00
4-5 Full days ------ ------ $140.00
Weekly – over 20hours $120.00 $130.00 $140.00
Registration Fee $25.00 $25.00 $35.00
Sibling Discount 10% 10% 10%
Late Pick Up Fees $1 per minute $1 per minute $1 per minute
**Non-refundable registration fee is payable per semester per child (Fall, Spring and Summer).
**Half Week rate is up to 4 hours per day. (20 hours)
IUSCC is funded through IUS Student Activity fees.
Payments are due before service is provided (pre-paid). No refunds given.
Payments can be made in the following ways:
o IUS Bursar Office – University Center South 103
o IU Pay online: www.ius.edu/childrens-center
o IUS Children’s Center with UCard
Unpaid tuition will result in your child (ren)’s enrollment termination and campus account
flagged/charged for the unpaid balance. Community accounts will be submitted to a third party
external collection agency.
A $27.50 fee or 5% of the returned check value is charged for returned checks.
Credit is not given for unused hours/payments.
Parents must call before bringing their child if not scheduled for the day.
Late Pick-up Notice & Fees - Out of respect for our staff members who have families, classes
to attend and other commitments following their workday at IUSCC, children must be picked up
from IUSCC promptly by the time of closing. Parents arriving late (after 5:35 pm) by the
Children’s Center clock, will be assessed a late fee at the rate of $1.00 per minute for
each child. Being habitually late is cause for IUSCC termination. If any child(ren) is not picked
up 30 minutes after closing time, we are required by law to consider the child abandoned and to
call the IUS Police Department; 812-941-2400. If an emergency arises that will delay picking up
your child (ren), you MUST inform the Center immediately so that the filing of an abandonment
report can be avoided.
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STAFF TO CHILD RATIOS
Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) requires licensed centers to maintain
the following Staff-to-Child Ratios:
Preschool (3 years old): 1:10
Pre-Kindergarten (4 years old): 1:12
5 years and older: 1:15
IUSCC meets and exceeds the FSSA Staff to Child ratio. IUSCC utilizes work study students
to exceed the FSSA standards for Staff to Child ratios. During times of absences, all efforts
will be made to maintain the higher than required ratio. There may be times, however, when the
minimum requirement is followed temporarily. The IUS Children’s Center capacity is 27 children.
IUSCC staff is experienced and screened to assure high standards and state regulations are
met. This includes annual state criminal history checks, CPR training, First Aid and Universal
Precautions.
ENROLLMENT AND REGISTRATION
Applications for enrollment are available at the IUS Children’s Center. We serve families
regardless of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex/gender, marital or veteran
status, sexual orientation, or special needs that can be reasonably accommodated. IUS
Children’s Center gives priority to children of students, staff, and faculty before offering
enrollment to families from the community.
STATE REGULATIONS
Prior to your child’s first day at the Center, per Indiana State Licensing Regulations, the
following information must be on file:
• Registration Form, completed and signed
• Emergency Contacts Form, completed and signed
• Student Health History, completed and signed
• Parent Questionnaire, completed and signed
• Emergency Medical Transportation/Treatment Form, completed and signed
• Recent Physical and Record of up-to-date immunizations (see Coordinator regarding
religious and medical exemptions) within 30 days of enrollment.
• Licensed Child Care Consent Form
• A copy of Child’s Birth Certificate or other legal proof of age (i.e. passport)
• A copy of any relevant court orders that affect the child to be enrolled
• IUS CC Payment Policies, completed and signed
• IUS CC Parental Authorization Form; signed permission form for preventative products
(hand sanitizer, sunscreen, insect repellant, lip ointment, hand lotion, outside water
play, behavior/discipline/conduct, family handbook)
• Summary of Parent Responsibilities (Emergency Medical Authorization, Transportation
Permission, Photo, Video, Website, Media Release)
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CHILDREN’S FILES
All enrollment forms are kept in a locked file cabinet in the Center’s office. The contents of
children’s files are confidential and only immediately available to the following individuals:
administrators or teaching staff that have consent from the parent or legal guardian for access
to records, the child’s parents or legal guardians, and regulatory authorities (i.e. state licensing
consultant). If or when you are given notification that information needs to be updated, please
respond within a week’s time, unless otherwise noted.
ATTENDANCE
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE - The Center is open from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through
Friday. Please confirm hours with the Center; hours are subject to change depending on
semester enrollment. A computer is located by the entrance door for attendance records. Due
to health, safety and legal considerations your child must be signed in and out each day by
yourself or an adult (must be at least 18 years of age) who is authorized by you. Please verbally
relay any important information to staff (child leaving early, different person picking up child,
late night, etc.) and write in the Sign In Comments section provided.
When transporting your child to and from school, please make sure that they are secured in a
child car seat. When driving on campus, please drive slowly and alertly. We ask that families
turn off their car motor when dropping or picking up their children. Be sure that your child is
holding an adult’s hand as s/he gets in or out of the car and walks into or out of the building.
Children are to never enter or leave the building or parking lot unaccompanied by an adult. For
the safety and security of all children, only adults are to open/close outside doors and the large
black entrance gate.
When bringing your child into the Center, please remember to sign him or her in on the
computer provided by the entrance door. Then proceed to your child(ren)’s cubby to drop off
their personal belongings (backpack, coat, hat, mittens, boots, rest time items, etc.). It will be
helpful to the staff if you let them know what kind of a morning you and your child have had
(relaxed and happy, or hurried and stressful?), as this will help them know how best to help your
child throughout the day. You can also relate important information to the staff such as who
will be picking your child up at the end of the day, if your child needs to leave early because of
an appointment, or if your child went to bed late last night and may need a longer nap. Please do
not leave your child (ren) until the staff have seen and greeted you. We can then be assured
that your child is under the supervision of an adult at all times.
When you come to pick up your child, please make sure one of the teachers has seen you and
said good-bye before you leave. Please remember to “sign out” your child (ren) on the computer
near the door.
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ABSENCES - We become concerned when children are not here when expected. If your child
will be absent, we ask that you call the Center, 812-941-2402, to notify us before 9 AM. If your
child is absent due to an illness, please inform us so that we can take proper precautions and if
necessary notify families of illness.
VACATION – The Center is closed the times IUS is closed (See list on pg. 4). You will not be
charged for two (2) weeks of Winter Break when IUSCC is closed. Full and Half Week
contracts only, families are able to take two (2) complete weeks of summer vacation and one (1)
vacation week during the course of either the Fall or Spring semester. Vacation Notification
Form must be turned in to Coordinator at least two (2) weeks in advance for billing purposes. If
families choose to take vacations at times different than those listed above, the parent is still
responsible for tuition and fees as stated in the contract.
RELEASE OF CHILD - We will release your child only to you or persons authorized by you. In
order to do this, we need to have your authorization on file and prior notification that someone
other than yourself will be picking up your child. Notification of Pick-Up forms are available on
the Parent Information Board. Please fill this form out and give the form to staff member
before leaving. If this will be the first time for this person to pick-up your child, please inform
them to bring a photo i.d. because we will ask for it. You may also include in “comment’ section
when signing child in on the computer.
LATE PICK-UP NOTICE & FEE - Out of respect for our staff members who have families,
classes to attend and other commitments following their workday at IUSCC, children must be
picked up from IUSCC promptly by the time of closing. Parents arriving late (after 5:35 pm) by
the Children’s Center clock, will be assessed a late fee at the rate of $1.00 per minute for
each child. Being habitually late is cause for IUSCC termination. If any child(ren) is not picked
up 30 minutes after closing time, we are required by law to consider the child abandoned and to
call the IUS Police Department; 812-941-2400. If an emergency arises that will delay picking up
your child (ren), you MUST inform the Center immediately so that the filing of an abandonment
report can be avoided.
CUSTODY - If there is a problem regarding custody of a child, a copy of the court document
verifying legal custody must be on file with the Center. The Center will not be placed in the
position of arbitrating a child’s departure or parents’ visitation rights. If a court order exists
preventing a particular individual from having contact with a child, the Center shall comply with
the order. There shall be a copy of the court order in the child’s file. If warranted, the Center
staff will consult or utilize the IUS Police Department.
INTOXICATED OR IMPAIRED PERSON - IUS Children’s Center will make every effort to
protect a child from getting into a car with an adult who seems to be impaired. The use of toxic
substances, use of alcohol or possession of illegal substances is prohibited. Unauthorized
firearms, weapons, ammunition, explosives and other items considered to be dangerous are
prohibited. A violation of these policies is considered a serious offense. Anyone picking up
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and/or dropping off a child that is suspected of being intoxicated, carrying an illegal firearm or
under the influence of drugs will result in the IUS Police Department being contacted and your
child care services reviewed.
CURRICULUM
Our focus is on the whole child paying particular attention to facilitation of cognitive, language,
social/emotional, approaches to learning, health, physical (fine motor, gross motor, & self help
skills), and emergent literacy. We believe that young children learn best through exploring and
interacting with the environment and their peers. The curriculum promotes academic success
through the use of a wide range of appealing hands-on learning materials and experiences. In
this way we provide children with experiences that will help them learn to direct their own
actions, discipline themselves, and accept responsibility for their deeds. We expect that
children will:
Experience academic success throughout their school career
Become eager life-long learners, creative thinkers and problems solvers
Gain significant verbalization skills and expand their vocabulary
Expand their language comprehension
Experience significant advances in their literacy and numeracy skills
Increase their attention span and ability to concentrate
A significant factor in the success of the Curriculum is the role that the teacher plays in the
classroom as well as the relationships with the children.
Teacher/Staff Role
The role of the teacher(s) at the IUS Children's Center is based on the philosophy that young
children learn through their own self-directed interactions with their environment and the people
within it. The role of the teacher includes the following.
Preparing the learning environment
Observing the children and individualizing the curriculum
Interacting with the children
Planning
Modeling & Engaging with the children
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
The IUSCC welcomes all children to be a part of our Community. In accordance with the
Americans with Disabilities Act, we will do our best to accommodate your child’s needs; there
may be circumstances when the Center is not the best educational setting to provide for the
needs of the child. The Center offers to assist you in making contact with the New Albany
Floyd County School Corporation and/or First Steps to gain the resources needed for your child
to reach their full potential.
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WORKING COLLABORATIVELY WITH FAMILIES OF CHILDREN WITH
INDIVIDUAL FAMILY SERVICE PLANS (IFSPs) AND INDIVIDUAL
EDUCATION PLANS (IEPs)
Children may enroll who have pre-determined disabilities or special learning needs. Additionally,
it may be determined that a child has disabilities or special learning needs while in our care. It
is our goal to be collaborative team members with families and other service providers such as
therapists and teacher’s of record.
When children enroll with Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)s or Individualized
Education Plan (IEP)s, the Coordinator will be determined to be the primary person for
communication and follow-through on the child’s goals and objectives. The Center’s
teacher will still be very much involved in the child’s care and education.
Upon enrollment, the Coordinator and Teacher will meet with family members and
therapists to discuss the goals and objectives for the child and design plans within our
philosophy and practice of how the classroom environment can best support the child. It
is the IUS CC’s preference for therapy to occur within the classroom so that it is
happening within the child’s natural context and so the teachers develop skills to best
support the child. However, we understand that there are times and instances when it is
best for a child and therapist to pull out of the classroom (direct one-on-one skill
development or assessment).
Because much of the support that a child receives occurs within the classroom by the
teacher, it is important that the teacher be an integral part of the planning for the child.
The Coordinator and/or Teacher will plan to attend all move-in conferences, case
conference meetings, and team meetings (for IEPs and IFSPs when applicable).
To ensure solid communication, a notebook is kept for each child with an IFSP and IEP
for all team members to write observations about progress on goals. This notebook is
always available for family members to view.
The service team for the child, including family members, teachers, and therapists will
review progress on goals regularly so that, if necessary, adjustments can be made.
Occasionally, methods recommended by therapists or families come into conflict with the
Center’s philosophy and practices. If this occurs, the service team will meet to discuss
potential alternatives.
When an enrolled child is experiencing challenges that indicate a potential disability or
special learning need that has not previously been identified, we will do the following:
~Communicate concerns and explanation for those concerns as they arise
~Readily share information, observations & documentation
~Listen to your input, observations, & concerns
~Provide suggestions for “next steps”
~Provide resources for further assessment
~Do so in a manner that is sensitive, supportive and confidential.
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Indiana University Diversity Statement
Indiana University Southeast’s commitment to diversity is an essential part of our overall
commitment to generating and imparting knowledge and understanding. All components of our
academic mission--teaching, learning, scholarship, research, and creative activity--are
immeasurably enriched by students, faculty, and staff with diverse experiences. Our finest
efforts as educators and scholars depend on the interchange of ideas and on the testing of
competing assumptions. Interaction on our campus among persons and groups with diverse
backgrounds and experiences facilitates those efforts by helping us to become more reflective
about the varied historical and social contexts in which we work and learn. For our campus to
retain its leadership role within the educational community, we must not merely promote policies
of nondiscrimination as articulated in the Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Policy of
Indiana University. We must include all who comprise our diverse university community and
foster a campus climate in which those diverse influences are respected and valued.
Indiana University Southeast aspires to prepare its students for life in a richly complex nation
and world, and it expects members of the University to promote this vision as fully and
conscientiously as possible.
To this end, IUS Children’s Center welcomes, supports, and embraces all families and staff in
our community.
Statement of Non-Discrimination
The IUS Children’s Center follows the non-discriminatory job posting, hiring & educating
practice of Indiana University. Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer. Indiana
University policy prohibits selection criteria that may discriminate against individuals because
of age, national origin, citizenship, visa status, ethnicity, race, color, religion, gender, sexual
orientation, marital or parenthood status, childbearing or childcare plan, pregnancy, physical or
mental disability, veteran status, or arrest record.
Indiana University Equal Employment (Enrollment) Opportunity
Affirmative Action Policy
Indiana University pledges itself to continue its commitment to the achievement of equal
opportunity within the University and throughout American society as a whole. In this regard,
Indiana University will recruit, hire, promote, educate, and provide services to persons based
upon their individual qualifications. Indiana University prohibits discrimination based on
arbitrary considerations of such characteristics as age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender,
gender identity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran
status.
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BEHAVIOR/DISCIPLINE POLICY
The health, safety, and emotional well-being of children at IUS Children’s Center are our
highest priorities. We view discipline as any other skill that must be developed, and we strive
to help children learn and play, settle disputes, and interact with others peacefully and non-
aggressively.
Discipline at the IUS Children's Center is developed with support and encouragement of
positive behavior through a planned environment that provides a variety of activities from which
children may choose, and includes smiles, and pleasant attention for appropriate behavior and
positively stated alternatives when a conflict situation occurs. We regularly review the rules
with the children, encourage appropriate behaviors, model conflict resolution skills, and stay
alert to situations.
When inappropriate behavior occurs, it is dealt with immediately. Teachers individualize
responses to the children's behavior, in relation to the particular child and the situation. They
work to identify the cause of the inappropriate behavior and recognize that repeated
challenging behavior may be the child's way of signaling that he/she needs help in dealing with a
certain task or situation. Teachers can then modify the learning environment and/or activities
to help resolve the situation.
When the teacher sees a conflict situation arising, he/she works to identify causes, and then
responds by stating an alternative for the child. For example, "You can put the block here"
instead of "Don't throw the block on the floor." If the inappropriate behavior continues, the
teacher tells the child the rule and the consequences of the behavior if it continues. For
example, "Throwing blocks may hurt someone. If you throw blocks, you will need to make
another choice." The teacher is careful to emphasize that it is the behavior that is
unacceptable, not the child.
Physical punishment such as shaking, hitting, biting, spanking, excessive force or otherwise
hurting a child is prohibited at IUS Children’s Center as well as psychological abuse, coercion,
intimidation or humiliation. The Center staff does not use threats or derogatory remarks and do
not withhold nor threaten to withhold food or outdoor time as a form of discipline. These acts
are grounds for immediate termination of staff members. All incidents of suspected child
abuse will be reported to Child Protective Services as required by law.
When a child is being destructive to materials or harmful to another person, that child is
redirected to a choice made by the teacher. In extreme situations, a child may need to be
separated from the group to an individual activity to help her/him gain control. This should not
be viewed as a “time out.”
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Quick Reference of Behavior/Discipline Policy:
• Positive behavior approach is used with the children which includes positive
reinforcement and redirection to guide behavior.
• Staff communicates with the children using positive statements, encouraging children
with adult support, to use their own words and solutions to resolve conflicts, and
communicate with children at eye level, talking to them about what behavior is expected
from them.
• If redirecting does not produce appropriate behavior the “Thinking Chair” will be used
with a discussion about behavior following.
• On-going behavior concerns will be discussed with parents/guardian.
• If a child is continually disruptive or physically/verbally abusive to another child or staff,
enrollment may be terminated.
YOUR CHILD’S DAY
SCHOOL ATTIRE/DRESS CODE:
• Please send your child in play clothes! Sturdy play shoes that support your child’s foot
properly and protect their toes are recommended for your child safety. If these are not
being worn, please place appropriate shoes in your student’s backpack. (Flip flops and
sandals are a tripping hazard and can cause accidents during playtime/movement.)
• Clothing or accessories with offensive words or statements, tobacco and/or alcoholic
beverage promotions, or pictures that are “scary to children” (ex. skulls, etc.) are not
acceptable. If IUSCC deems clothing inappropriate, items may be turned inside out.
• When dressing your child in a skirt/dress, please put a pair of shorts underneath! Girls
at this age are not very modest.
CLOTHING AND PERSONAL ITEMS:
• Mark your child’s name clearly on all personal belongings. Similar looking items are
often picked up by mistake.
• Each child needs a change of clothing (socks, underwear, shirt and pants/shorts) to keep
at the Center in case of a spill or accident. Please put the clothing in a Ziploc bag and
write your child’s name on the bag.
• Each child needs a pair of slippers to keep at the Center; please make sure child’s name is
on them. The children spend a lot of time on the floor and this will help keep the
carpet/floor clean.
• For children needing afternoon care, each child needs one small blanket. Crib size
blankets or bath size towels are just the perfect size and easy for your child to fold.
Bring a small pillow (travel size), if desired. Blankets/pillows must fit in bottom of child’s
cubby. They will be sent home weekly to be laundered. (In case of sickness, items will be
sent home immediately.)
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OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES:
• Outdoor activities are an important part of our curriculum. Play clothes and sturdy shoes
are suggested.
• For colder weather, send a warm jacket, hat, mittens and/or scarf if needed.
• For warmer weather, apply sunscreen before coming to the Center; send a hat if needed.
BACKPACK/BAG:
Please send your child’s backpack/bag daily to transport their daily art work, center
communication, etc. will be located. Please check OFTEN!
WHAT TO LEAVE AT HOME:
For the safety and security of all children, we ask that you leave candy, money, coins, food, gum,
medication (including cough drops), cosmetics, chap stick, small jewelry, any questionable items
on them (in pockets, hands, backpacks), electronic games, and toys (other than a soft friend for
rest time) at home or in the car.
MEALS AND SNACKS:
Healthy snacks such as apple wedges, raisins, celery, carrot sticks, peanut butter, muffins, milk
and orange juice are served twice daily at approximately 10 am and 3 pm. Occasionally your
child will have the opportunity to prepare a special food at snack time!
Breakfast is at approximately 8 a.m. and Lunch is served at approximately 12:10 p.m. If you
want your child to be served during these times, please ensure that she/he has arrived prior to
serving.
Variations to a child’s diet due to allergies or medical reasons will be made with written
instructions from the child’s physician. Variations to a child’s diet due to religious or personal
beliefs shall be made with a written statement from the child’s parent. A Safe Transportation
of Food Responsibility form must be signed by parent. Forms can be obtained from the
Coordinator.
When eating snacks and meals at IUS Children’s Center, children are encouraged to taste all
foods on their plate. If they do not prefer a certain food, they are not required to eat it. Our
desserts are usually fresh fruit or yogurt and are always offered regardless of the amount of
food eaten during the meal. For your child’s safety, please inform IUSCC of any and all food
allergies so that foods will not be shared with other children.
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REST TIME PHILOSOPHY:
At IUSCC, we believe that after a busy morning of high energy interactions, rest is an
important and necessary part of the day for every child. Rest Time lasts approximately 2 hours
from 1 pm to 3 pm. For the first half hour to 45 minutes of this time, children are lying on cots
and encouraged to rest. During this time, some children fall asleep, others do not. Teachers
and rest-time aides are available to rub backs if requested by the child. Gentle music or stories
are often played to help encourage a restful environment. Children who have not fallen asleep
are offered quiet activities to engage in.
BIRTHDAYS:
We recognize that birthdays are very special occasions, especially for children, and we will work
with you to help recognize your child’s birthday in a simple, meaningful way. On your child’s
birthday (or close to it) you may send in a special snack. Store bought cookies, muffins, brownie
bites or non-food items (pencils, stickers, tattoos, etc.) work best. If brining a cookie cake,
please NO EXCESSIVE ICING; Children will not eat. NO CAKE, CUPCAKES OR BROWNIES!
We have found that children do not eat them and it is very hard on the carpet. No homemade
items may be served.
We do not distribute birthday party invitations unless every child is invited. We ask that
“goody bags” are saved for celebrations held outside of the Children’s Center.
CELEBRATIONS/HOLIDAYS:
If you wish to bring something special to share, please let a staff member know. Required
dietary guidelines, food restrictions and other health laws must be upheld and all items must be
store bought. NO homemade items can be served. Celebrations are during snack time and we
ask that they are SIMPLE. If needed, the Center can supply paper plates, cups and napkins.
HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICIES
Our health policies have been formulated to safeguard the health and safety of all persons who
participate in our program. We are a Smoke, Alcohol, Drug, Firearm, and Toxic Substance free
environment. Please respect our policy regarding these items and do not bring them into the
Center.
ILLNESS:
When a child or staff member is known to have an illness as outlined below, the child or staff
member will be excluded from attendance. If your child develops any of these symptoms during
the day, we will notify the parents and require that the child be picked up within the hour. The
ill child will be placed in a supervised area isolated from the rest of the children until a parent
or designated person arrives.
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The following symptoms and illnesses indicate the need for a child or staff member to be
excluded from the program temporarily.
1. The presence of a temperature above or below normal (98.6) currently or within the past
24 hours
2. Intestinal disturbance accompanied by diarrhea and/or vomiting within the past 24 hours
3. Green or yellow runny nose
4. Persistent cough and/or sore, reddened throat
5. Sore or discharging eyes and/or ears
6. Any undiagnosed rash
7. Any contagious childhood ailments such as pink eye, ringworm, impetigo, etc.
8. Extreme fatigue and/or malaise
9. The presence of head lice and/or nits
In order for a child or staff member to be readmitted to the program, any symptoms
listed above must be gone for at least 24 hours, without the aid of over the counter
medication. Medication for bacterial illnesses should be administered for at least 24
hours before re-admittance.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES:
When children at IUSCC have been exposed to a communicable disease as defined by the health
department, the parents will be notified within 24 hours or the next school day unless
forbidden by law, except for life threatening diseases which must be reported to parents
immediately. We are required to notify the health department of any outbreaks of disease.
We ask that you notify IUSCC if your child has been exposed to or exhibits symptoms of a
communicable disease/illness and require that he/she not attend for the length of time
prescribed by your doctor.
MEDICATION:
A written order or prescription from your child’s physician is required before we can administer
any medication to your child, including over-the-counter medications. The medication must be
delivered to the Center in its original container. If it is a prescription, the pharmacy label must
show your child’s name, the physician’s name, the prescription number, the date it was filled, and
instructions for use. If it is an over-the-counter medication, the written order from the doctor
needs to include this information and why it is to be administered. Parents must sign a medicine
release form in order for staff to administer any medication. Unused or expired medications
will be disposed of if they are not taken home the child’s last day of attendance.
PHYSICALS AND IMMUNIZATIONS:
Within 30 days of enrollment documentation of a physical that has a date of no longer than 12
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months prior to admission and up-to-date immunizations must be provided for continued
enrollment of the child. Upon any immunization updates, records will be provided to the center.
If a child has medical reasons for a delayed schedule for immunizations a note from the doctor
must accompany the immunization record. For families who are choosing not to have their child
immunized for religious reasons, please obtain Vaccination – Parental Declination form from
Coordinator. In instances where a child is “under-immunized” because of a medical condition
(documented by a licensed health professional) or the family’s beliefs, and a vaccine-
preventable disease occurs in the program, the child(ren) will be excluded promptly from the
program until the threat of exposure is over.
When a child is overdue for immunizations or routine health visit, the parent or legal guardian
shall provide evidence of an appointment to ensure enrollment or continued enrollment, except
for any immunizations for which a family has a religious or medical exemption.
SMOKE FREE ENVIRONMENT:
IUS Children’s Center follows the IU policy of a smoke free environment. No smoking is
permitted on the premises (including in the parking lot) or in the presence of children.
NO IDLING POLICY:
In an effort to reduce exposure to the staff and children of IUSCC to exhaust fumes that can
enter our building, we have a NO-IDLING policy. Please adhere to this policy and turn off your
vehicle when dropping off or picking up your child while parked in the designated parking area or
near entrances of the building.
INCIDENTS AND ACCIDENTS:
In the event of an incident or accident, the details will be listed on the appropriate form, signed
by a staff member and a parent or guardian. In case of accidental injury requiring more than
simply first aid, we will contact a parent immediately. For faculty, staff and students, the IUS
Police Department (IUSPD) will be notified and they will make contact with you. If you cannot
be reached, an adult authorized by you will be contacted. For this reason, it is of utmost
importance that all emergency telephone numbers are up to date. In the event of an emergency,
911 will be dialed first and then the parents contacted. Ambulances will be sent to Floyd
Memorial Hospital unless the parent specifies otherwise.
In the event that your child needs a doctor or dentist, the following doctor and/or dentist will
be contacted if none are listed on your child’s registration form:
Doctor: Dr. John Crase 812-944-8451
Dentist: Dr. Boyd Sanders 812-923-7585
PARENTAL NOTIFICATION:
In the case of serious illness or injury, the IUS Children’s Center staff will notify the families
as soon as possible.
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BITING POLICY Program Philosophy
Biting is a natural, developmental behavior in which many young children engage, especially during
their second and third years of life. We recognize that biting is a distressing activity for parents,
staff, and the child who has been bitten. Because biting is distressing, everyone involved would like
to eliminate it quickly. Unfortunately, a “quick fix” is not usually available. However, biting does
require immediate action by staff to comfort the child who has been bitten, express disapproval to
the biter, and to find the cause of the biting.
Children bite for a variety of reasons so it’s important for adults to get to the cause of the
behavior. Most of the reasons for biting are not related to behavior problems nor does biting make
the biter a “bad child”. Since biting is developmentally related, it is more common for toddlers to
bite than for older preschool age children.
How Staff Respond
Staff members respond to biting as they would other aggressive behavior by,
calmly, yet firmly telling the biter that biting hurts and is not allowed
by comforting the victim immediately and providing first aid if needed
o wash the bite with soap and water
o apply ice to reduce swelling
o if the skin is broken, universal precautions are followed and an injury report is written
by documenting the biting in an incident report
When a particular child bites on a regular basis, the center staff attempt to find the cause of the
biting and take action to prevent future incidents. The staff look at:
the precipitating factors such as time of day, area of the classroom, the activity, other
children involved, etc.
changes in the child’s life such as health problems, teething, the absence of a family member,
the birth of a sibling, transitions, etc.
The staff then develop strategies to help prevent further biting. These might include:
ensuring that there are enough materials, including duplicates, for the children to use
ensuring that there is enough space in the classroom and that there are quiet times in the
schedule
shadowing a biter in situations and times when the child has bitten before
providing teething toys for children who are getting new teeth
showing disapproval of biting
working collaboratively with parents to reduce or eliminate biting
How Parents Are Informed
The parents of a bitten child are notified of the incident the day the incident occurred.
Confidentiality prohibits the staff from divulging the name of the biter. The parents of the biter
are informed personally and privately the same day.
How Biting is Documented
All biting incidents are documented by the staff(s) in an incident report which is reviewed and
approved by the center director. A copy of the incident report is given to the parents. The other
copy is kept in the Center’s incident report file.
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CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT POLICY
All persons in child-related programs are required by law to report suspected child
abuse or neglect. In accordance with State of Indiana law, the IUS Children’s Center
will report any suspicion of child abuse or neglect that involves enrolled children, their
families, or IUSCC staff. The IUS Children’s Center staff have received training to
help identify signs of possible abuse and neglect. Some guidelines that we are given are
as follows:
Staff persons are required to make a report if child abuse/neglect is suspected.
Staff persons are not permitted to conduct an investigation; trained personnel will
institute an inquiry if they deem necessary.
If you believe a child is a victim of abuse; physical, sexual, or neglect, call:
Indiana State Child Protective Services Hotline: 1-800-800-5556
This number is available 7 days a week with 24 hour coverage and will connect
you with the county Child Protective Service office of the county you are
calling from.
National Numbers: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453); 211; 1-800-
CHILDREN.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:
Each morning IUSCC staff and teachers walk through the center and playground to ensure that
the environment is safe and healthy. If any hazards are observed, they are removed and/or the
appropriate department at IUS is contacted to have the situation resolved. Throughout the
day, the staff ensures the health and safety of children and adults by conducting a non-
intrusive health inspection upon children’s arrival, supervision, utilization of toys and materials
that are appropriate for group care and the age being served, and the use of appropriate
cleaning and sanitization methods.
All staff members are required by FSSA to be trained in first aid. At all times, at least one
staff member in the building is currently certified in child/adult CPR and First Aid, through the
American Red Cross. First aid kits are located throughout the building.
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COMMUNICATION
• Effective communication between staff and parents is of utmost importance for the
wellbeing of your child.
• IUSCC Newsletters will be sent home, please keep for referral.
• IUSCC utilizes a Parent Information Board. Please check this board often for invoices,
receipts, community information and extra copies of information sent home.
• IUSCC utilizes email with parents. Email will be checked periodically during the day. We
will respond in a timely manner but please remember: Your children come first when
they are here! If an emergency arises, please call!
• IUSCC utilizes the role of the Indiana University Southeast Police Department(IUSPD)
Dispatcher 24 hour service. In the event of an emergency and the IUSCC staff are
unreachable, please contact the IUSPD - (812) 941-2400.
CONFIDENTIALITY
As per the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (20U.S.C. ~ 1232g) all information
pertaining to the admission, health, assessment (developmental profile, screening), family,
and/or discharge of a child is confidential. All confidential information is kept in the office file
cabinet that is kept locked when no one is present in the office. Information is available to
parents or legal guardians, administrators or teaching staff (with consent from parent or legal
guardian for access to records), shared with teachers and staff only on a “need to know” basis,
and regulatory authorities (i.e. state licensing consultant). Requests from third parties,
including outside agencies, will be evaluated by center administrative staff (coordinator), in
consultation with University Counsel in appropriate circumstances, before any disclosure is
made. In most cases, information will not be disclosed with any third party without the written
consent from the child’s legal guardian. All staff have been informed of and signed the written
policy for protecting the confidentiality of IUSCC children and families.
DEVELOPING RELATIONSHIPS WITH FAMILIES
CONDUCT CODE:
As a child care center we are a community of children, families, and staff all interacting and
sharing our lives together. In a community, people work closely together and hopefully
interactions are positive, helpful, kind, and understanding. Yet, it is to be expected that from
time to time people will experience some conflict, some concerns, and some difficulties.
We recognize that parenting is one of the most difficult, intense, and rewarding experiences in
your life. We want you to share your thoughts, hopes, and dreams for your child. You want what
is best for your child and we know it is your job to advocate and protect your child. As a staff
it is our goal to offer your family the best in early care and education and to support you in your
child rearing efforts. We need your input, your suggestions, your questions, and concerns.
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• Parents/Guardians are expected to work courteously and cooperatively with IUSCC staff
to assist their child(ren) in meeting their cognitive, social, physical, behavioral and
emotional goals.
• Children and parents/guardians may respectfully express their concerns about IUSCC.
However, they may not do so in a manner that is discourteous, scandalous, rumor
driven, disruptive, threatening or hostile.
• If you have a concern, communicate your concern with the CC staff/Coordinator in
person, by phone; 812-941-2402 or email: [email protected].
• If the situation is not resolved, please communicate your concern in writing, signed, dated
and submitted to the IUSCC Coordinator who will meet with you and the Campus Life
Director to discuss the issue.
FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The following are the responsibility of the parent or guardian upon enrolling their child at
Campus Children’s Center:
• Completing all forms for enrollment, health, registration and emergency.
• Arranging timely payment of fees with the Center Coordinator in accordance with
Payment Policies.
• Signing your child in and out each day.
• Informing the Center of illnesses, vacations and late arrivals.
• Informing the teachers of any changes at home that may affect your child.
• Notifying the Center if someone other than yourself will be picking up your child
(Notification of pick-up form must be filled out).
• Arriving to pick up children during Center hours.
• Providing the Center with a change of clothing.
• Picking up your child’s rest time linens on Friday for laundering and returning them on
Monday.
• Cleaning out your child’s cubby every Friday so that it can be disinfected by staff.
• Keeping sick children home in accordance with Health Policies.
• Keeping emergency telephone numbers and other information up to date.
• Picking children up immediately if contacted by the Center due to illness or injury.
• Keeping your child’s fingernails clean and trimmed to reduce the possibility of your child
scratching her/himself and other children and dirt under nails can spread germs.
• Keep the Family handbook for future reference.
FAMILY INVOLVEMENT:
Families are welcome to participate. For example: storytelling and book reading, sharing musical
instruments, sharing special interests and/or hobbies, and sharing information about your
family’s cultural heritage. For scheduling, please speak with Coordinator or Lead Teacher.
IUS Children’s Center has an open door policy. You are welcome and encouraged to stop in at
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any time to visit your child. All visitors to the Center must sign in/out in the “Visitors
Notebook” and inform the staff you are staying to visit.
PETS
To reduce asthma and allergy triggers, IUSCC does not permit pets with fur or feathers
(except to meet ADA requirements for service animals or on rare occasions, such as for Show
and Tell and when students with asthma or allergies are appropriately accommodated.)
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
An advisory committee of University personnel, parents and staff, meet to recommend Center
policies. This committee listens and considers suggestions brought before them. There may be
times when the committee can not make suggested changes due to outside factors and Indiana
Licensure Child Care Regulations.
WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURES
A two week written notice is required prior to withdrawing your child from the IUS Children’s
Center. This written notice must include the reason for the withdrawal, final day of attendance
and what your child’s next arrangement will be (Public School, Sitter, Home Care, another
Center or School, etc.). This information will allow us to help your child make a smooth
transition. Your account will be charged for the two weeks from the day we receive written
notice, whether your child attends or not. If this procedure is not followed you assume full
responsibility for paying all unpaid balance on your child’s account.
TERMINATION POLICY
The Center may terminate your child’s enrollment under the following circumstances:
1. Non-payment for child care services and/or lack of adherence to tuition payment policies.
2. Parents falsify information on enrollment forms or otherwise knowingly falsify
information.
3. Parents do not agree or do not follow and comply with the policies set forth in this
Handbook.
4. Lack of parental cooperation with the Center’s efforts to resolve differences and/or to
meet the child’s needs through parent/staff meetings or conferences.
5. Inappropriate or abusive behavior and/or verbal abuse or threats by parents, relatives,
guardians or other parties toward the Center staff, other parents or children.
6. Inability of parents to deal in a professional manner with Center personnel or other
parents and children at the Center.
7. The continued enrollment of the child poses a risk to the health and/or safety of other
children, parents or center staff members or continued enrollment of the child
constitutes an undue burden on the Center’s resources.
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EMERGENCY CLOSING
While we plan to remain open year-round, with the exception of the Holidays and In-
Service/Renovation days, there are times when we may need to close due to reasons out of our
control. These reasons can include but are not limited to the following:
1. Weather related closings. The Center will be closed if the IUS campus is closed, a
weather emergency is in effect for Floyd County, or the child care center staff cannot be
present to provide appropriate staff to child ratios mandated by state child care licensing
regulations.
2. Environmental Conditions that make the building unsafe such as, sewage problems,
inadequate or unsafe water supply, no electricity, heating system problems, gas, carbon
monoxide, or other noxious gases leak.
In the event that the center has an emergency closing, weekly fees are still based upon a 5 day
week, any considerations will be under the discretion of the Coordinator; decisions will be final.
EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN
In the event of an evacuation of the IUS Children’s Center building, the staff will evacuate the
children and first meet in the grassy area by the stop sign at Southern Drive from Evergreen
East Lot. Attendance of staff and children will be taken. Alternate site will be grass field by
Activities Building (gym). A binder with emergency contact information for all of the children
and staff and a cell phone will be carried by the Coordinator, or in her absence, the person in
charge or a member of the Emergency Control Committee. Once the children and teachers
arrive at the evacuation location, the Coordinator or person in charge will notify families and
instruct them to pick up their child(ren).
LICENSING INFORMATION
The Indiana University Southeast Children’s Center is a licensed facility through the Indiana
Family and Social Administration. Our license is valid until the date that is stated on the posted
license in our facility. At that time, we will be re-evaluated and re-assessed.
http://www.in.gov/fssa/
FSSA INDIANA CHILD CARE DEVELOPMENT FUND (CCDF Voucher Program)
IUSCC accepts the Child Care Development Fund voucher program. The Child Care and
Development Fund is a federal program designed to help low-income families pay for child care
who are working, attending training or continuing their education. Families who wish to enroll in
the CCDF program should contact CCDF directly at: River Valley Resources, CCDF Region 5B
Main Office, 100 E. Second Street, Suite E, Madison, IN 47250, 812-273-9270, or
[email protected]. You are responsible for any tuition costs not paid by CCDF,
for maintaining your requirements and keeping your voucher current.
TAX ID NUMBER: 35-6001673
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PARENT’S RECORD
Parents may use this page to keep a record of information they provide to the
Campus Children’s Center. If any of this information changes, please notify the
Center staff.
Date my child began attending the Center____________
I have given authorization for the following people to pick up my child at the
Center:
I have given authorization for the following people to act in my behalf in the event
of an emergency and I cannot be reached:
___________________________Telephone _____________
___________________________Telephone _____________
___________________________Telephone _____________
I have provided the following information:
Child’s Physician Name and Phone Number
Child’s Dentist Name and Phone Number
Emergency telephone numbers where parents can be reached:
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Play is
an active form
of learning
that unites the
mind, body and spirit.