Parent Manual

FUNSHINE EARLY LEARNING CENTRE INC.

MISSION

At Funshine Early Learning Centre Inc., our mission is to provide licensed child care that is high-quality, family-friendly and community-minded. At our programs, children will feel safe to enter the well-prepared environment where they will be offered meaningful activities from caring instructors that support them in all areas of development through PLAY!

PHILOSOPHY

We believe that all aspects of learning in a young child’s experience will be best taught within a loving environment that honours PLAY! Daily teacher-initiated activities will provide a basis of learning for new skills and then a period of free-play will allow children the opportunity to develop and better understand these skills at their own ability level. Although free-play should follow the interest of the child, it will be well-supervised, observed and teacher-guided when needed to support the child’s individual development.

VALUES

• Health and Safety:

  • Ratios are maintained

  • Direct supervision

  • Daily cleaning and sanitizing

  • Quickly completed repairs and maintenance

  • Staff access to allergy information

  • Daily outdoor time

• Caring Instruction

  • Staff are at child’s level

  • Activities are adapted for various ages and development levels

  • Communication between parents and staff

  • Staff communicate in age appropriate language to children

  • Show genuine interest in child’s experiences

• Well-Prepared Environment

  • Staff have weekly planning time

  • Daily routine includes pre-planned activities

  • Interest-based learning centres changed monthly

CLOTHING/SUPPLIES AND PLAYWEAR

Outdoor play is a part of our daily program, weather permitting. Proper outerwear is a must. Proper outerwear includes the following for each season:

Winter: Ski pants, warm coat, boots, hat, mittens (2 pair).

Spring/Fall: Rubber boots, splash pants, warm jacket, and hat.

Summer: Shorts, summer shirts, hat, sunscreen.

*** No drawstrings are allowed in hoods or headwear. No strings are allowed on mitts. No scarves are allowed.

Clothes may become wet during outdoor play and all children must have a change of clothes (pants, shirt, socks, and mitts) at all times.

Clothing must be labelled. All unclaimed clothing will be laundered and donated after one month.

FUNSHINE INFANT AND TODDLER CARE

We recognize that infant and toddler children need to develop in a consistent, nurturing and stimulating environment. We are committed to providing a safe, warm, and friendly environment, with a program that has just the right balance of sensory stimulations, rest, and quiet activities for the individual children in our care. We are committed to providing infants and toddlers with consistent, loving relationships with staff that we believe will assist the child in growing and developing to his/her individual maximum level, comfortably and without stress.

INFANT AND TODDLER GOALS

We value the need for infants and toddlers to be stimulated by a rich learning environment and therefore, strive to provide them the opportunity of exploring, caring for, and learning from a hands-on infant centered environment.

1. Provide adequate and varied nourishment, prepared in a safe and sanitary manner

2. Provide protective, preventative, and prompt physical care

3. Ensure a small number of adults have a consistent relationship with the infants

4. Facilitate frequent positive contact with other children and adults

5. Employ caregivers who understand that infants and toddlers are individuals who deserve love, respect and quality care

6. Ensure consistency, regularity and order within routines

7. Offer variety, flexibility and change within the physical environment

8. Provide freedom to be challenged and stimulated by the environment

9. Protect from anxiety and fear, and to encourage expression of emotions and feelings

10. The infant and preschool staff will provide support and comfort as infants enter the transition and preschool programs with the individual child’s needs in mind.

INFANT & TODDLER PLAN

Funshine Early Learning Centres Inc. includes two licensed Early Learning Centres; Funshine l on Oxford St. which has 8 infant spaces and 32 preschool spaces and Funshine ll on 10th Ave. S. which has 12 infant spaces and 54 preschool spaces. Staff strive to enhance the infant’s overall development in a variety of ways by fostering and modeling positive language and interactions with children.

Both Centres have separate cozy rooms that are designated for the infants and the staff. The rooms are the primary play space for children aged 3 months to two years. The majority of the children’s activities occur within this space. There are opportunities for fine motor activities and sensory experiences such as water and sand play. Staff follow parental/guardian wishes and instructions regarding their child’s individual needs. Staff welcome parental/guardian input and involvement. It is the staff's responsibility to adhere to government standards and regulations. It is the staff's goal to provide positive, fun, and educational daily experiences for the children.

Cribs are set up after lunch for nap time. The sleeping children have a designated cozy area where soothing music is played to promote a peaceful, calming atmosphere. The children who are awake or have yet to nap have a defined area where they are involved in books and/or quiet play.

Funshine Centres have linoleum flooring throughout with area rugs to help create a cozy environment with natural sound barriers and to define separate play centres and activities. The linoleum flooring allows for sensory experiences to occur such as water, sand, art and other messy activities that are easily cleaned up.

Bathing, toileting and diapering facilities are located in the rooms. Children who show interest in potty training have access to an age appropriate toilet. Many teachable moments can occur during diapering, potty training and hand-washing routines. The changing stations are set up to provide a safe, sanitary and comfortable atmosphere where positive interactions occur between the child and caregiver. There are specific times for diapering routines (upon arrival, snack times, before and after nap, after lunch, or as needed).

Weather permitting; the infants have access to an outdoor fenced play area where caregivers ensure that the children are using age appropriate equipment. Children are able to interact with nature and explore the environment around them. They are able to practice their large motor skills such as running, jumping, climbing, pushing, pulling, crawling, throwing/digging, rolling and balancing. Staff make opportunities for language building, science exploration, physical activity and discovering nature. There are opportunities to utilize the quad strollers that are available. The staff and children can explore the neighborhood and attend field trips, when possible. Going for walks is a perfect opportunity for children and staff to have positive language building conversations. Some infants may use the wagons, strollers or may walk beside the stroller holding onto the handlebar. Staff ensure that children are safely buckled into the strollers and that first aid kits with children’s information and a cell phone is taken with them during all excursions.

Staff provide opportunities for nutrition at designated times such as am snack (9:00-9:30), lunchtime (11:30-12:30) and pm snack (2:30-3:00). Children are offered and encouraged to drink water throughout the day. Staff follow parental/guardian instruction regarding their child’s individual needs. Drinks and snacks are available at alternated times throughout the day depending on the children’s individual needs. Infants have nutrition breaks in the infant room when necessary. The room is equipped with a small fridge that houses their drinks (milk or water, and labeled medication if necessary). Children’s individual cups and special foods are labeled to prevent the spread of germs and contaminates. The infants sit in highchairs during meal time where they are safely buckled in. The highchairs also double as activity tables where arts, crafts and wonderfully messy sensory activities take place.

Toys and materials for the infant room are specifically chosen with special consideration to aid in the child’s overall development. There are plenty of opportunities for children to experience and explore their environment. This equipment promotes independence, exploration, physical development, self-discovery, fine and large motor skills, language development, cognitive development, and also promotes positive social relationships.

Areas and equipment that are available for play are:

Housekeeping – this area encourages dramatic and imaginative play, creativity, language development, role-playing, social interactions, and self-help skills.

Books – Books encourage language, literacy, social interactions, and cognitive development.

Blocks and Building Materials – this equipment encourages fine motor pincer movement, trial and error activities, math and science opportunities, sharing, shape concepts, colours, and social times.

Music and Musical Instruments – Music promotes communication skills, grasping skills, listening skills, literacy skills, creative skills.

Sand/Water Play – these activities promote sensory motor experiences, math/science skills, social activity, fine motor skills, exploration, and enhances the overall play experience.

Cozy/Quiet areas – There is comfortable child-sized furniture available for rest and relaxation. This also provides quiet time and alone time. Children have access to these areas where they can capitalize on literary based activities, such as books, puzzles and games.

Art/Photographs – Children experience art experiences or activities daily. Art helps foster a positive sense of self and accomplishment. Art promotes independence, fine motor skills and creative thought processes. Art promotes sensory awareness. Children’s art is displayed for everyone’s viewing pleasure. There are photographs of the children and their environment posted for all to see.

Toys – There are many age and developmentally appropriate toys available. (Push and pull toys, balls, shape sorters, blocks, stacking and nesting cups and rings, dress-up clothes, musical instruments, housekeeping toys, dolls, trucks and cars, puzzles, books, climbers, mats, stuffed animals, tunnel, etc. )

All equipment available for the infants can be added to, enhanced or simplified to accommodate individual needs or special considerations.

Caregivers record information such as diapering, napping, nutrition, and any special details in Fastoche (an electronic communication tool) which is sent to the parent daily. Caregivers welcome parental involvement and encourage communication and information sharing.

FUNSHINE EARLY LEARNING INFANT CURRICULUM STATEMENT

We believe that infants learn most effectively through play and by “doing”. Therefore, a large part of the infants’ day is involved in play. Staff get down on the floor and use materials like puppets and dolls to role model how to play together. They might offer children their own puppets to play with and show the children how to clean up with the puppets. Infants learn social skills like how to make positive choices, build relationships with others and model appropriate interactions. Staff actively participate in play and expand play experience by providing materials. For example, the staff will play with blocks with the children and enhance their play by counting the blocks, talking about the colors, sizes, and adding materials such as little people to help expand their play. The staff also frequently use interactions as teachable moments and model appropriate social skills amongst each other and proper use of materials.

Our staff believe in a flexible day that allows for individual basic needs such as sleeping, eating, diapering, toileting and cuddling to be met. The staff make exceptions for individual needs by feeding the children when they are hungry, diapering when needed, putting infants to sleep when tired and not waiting for nap time. If a child needs a nap while the other children are playing the staff will set aside a bed and create a calmer atmosphere, and offer quieter toys or activities for the children that are awake.

We respond to individual cues and adjust our routines to their needs as they arise and not at a specific scheduled time. We believe that children develop at their own rate and we provide experiences that are suitable for a variety of developmental stages. We provide experiences that are interesting, stimulating and enhance exploration and discovery.

Every aspect of the day, including caregiving routines, such as diapering, hand-washing, feeding and transitions, is important and an opportunity to foster positive meaningful interactions between the staff and infants. Staff take every opportunity to communicate with the children during mealtimes. They talk about what they are eating, what they are doing, and describe what’s going on around them. This helps children learn language. Every interaction with infants is an opportunity for stimulating, educating, and nurturing their development. Our staff build relationships with the babies by talking, singing, reading, cuddling, listening and giving attention to their individual cues.

Staff provide equipment and activities to increase the children’s knowledge and skill. Staff offer an environment which provides experiences that promote appropriate development. For example if the children showed interest in cars and trucks the staff would create an environment that supported this. They would make a cardboard bus, offer baskets of cars and trucks, paint with wheels, and offer books about transportation. Staff create room arrangements and provide equipment that is stimulating and promotes exploration and play. They provide opportunities for quiet play, noisy play, messy play etc. Staff give warnings when activities are about to change and offer children time to finish their activities. Wherever possible they try to limit waiting times for children and provide smooth transition times. If there are short periods of time where children are waiting there are alternate activities offered such as singing or colouring.

Staff develop meaningful relationships with our families by taking the time to share stories about their children and engage in daily conversations with them. All families are encouraged to share their culture and special interests with us. Staff endeavor to provide pictures and equipment throughout the room that promote various different races and cultures as well as ongoing discussions of similarities and differences amongst all the children. Staff provide cultural pictures, dolls that have various skin tones, and music that promotes diversity. Information about the children’s learning and development is provided to families through bulletin boards, newsletters, daily reports, notes, and most importantly daily interactions with their child’s caregivers. We also display artwork as well as photos taken of the children engaged in activities throughout the day.

INFANT AND TODDLER DAILY SCHEDULE

7:30 - 8:30 Arrival and free-play (art, sensory bins and invitational tables open)

8:30 - 9:00 Diapering and hand-washing

9:00 - 9:30 Morning snack (followed by teacher-assisted hand-washing)

10:00- 11:30 Outdoor play or naptime if required (large motor, music, art, science offered)

11:30- 12:00 Diapering and hand-washing

12:00- 1:00 Lunch (followed by teacher assisted hand-washing)

1:00 - 3:00 Naptime/quiet time (stories, puzzles)

3:00 - 3:30 Diapering and handwashing

3:30 - 4:00 Afternoon snack (followed by teacher assisted hand-washing)

4:00 - 5:30 Departure and free-play; indoor/outdoor play (teacher-guided activities)

INFANT AND TODDLER PERSONAL BELONGINGS

Please remember to label all of your child’s personal belongings coming into the centre. Funshine will not be responsible for lost items.

Each child should have the following items:

• Blanket

• 2-3 complete changes of clothes, labelled

• Disposable diapers

• Baby Powder and/or creams

• Formula (pre-made, in bottles to last the day)

• Baby food (if required), labelled

• Daily schedule (if required)

• Bottles/sipper cups

• Indoor rubber-soled shoes (extra pair when toilet training)

***When your child is toilet training ensure that pants are elasticized for quick removal***

INFANT AND TODDLER FEES

As a licensed day care, fees are set by the Manitoba Child care Association.

INFANT (12 weeks to 24 months) $30.00 Full day

INFANT MEAL FEE $5.00 /day * see explanation below

TODDLER (24 months to 30 months) $20.80 Full day

TODDLER MEAL FEE $5.00/day * see explanation below

Infants and toddlers who are in diapers will be charged $6.00 per billing period to cover the cost of wipes.

*The meal fee includes 2 snacks and 1 lunch each day. If you choose to opt out of the meal program, you must provide 3 proper meals from home following Canada’s Food Guide. If we are required to supplement your child’s meal at any time you will be charged the full meal fee for that day.

Fees are based on a full time spot, not on attendance. Fees are charged for civic, statutory, and other holidays. Meal fees are charged based on the care schedule submitted by the caregiver in four week blocks, no refund is given after the fact (example if a child was sick and didn’t attend, including absences due to the Covid-19 pandemic).

An invoice for care will be emailed one week prior to the start of the billing period. It will be due within 7 days, on the first day of the billing period. We accept post-dated cheques, credit card or e-transfer. Post dated cheques are to be dated for the first date on the schedule. Credit cards are subject to a 0.25 (twenty five cent) fee PLUS a 2.9% charge on your following invoice to cover the fees that we incur from credit card payments.

To withdraw from any FELC Inc program 3 weeks notice is required.

There will be an additional charge of $30.00 for any cheque that is returned to the centre NSF (non sufficient funds)

Once your account becomes 30 days past due FELC Inc reserves the right to revoke services.

FUNSHINE PRESCHOOL CARE

At Funshine Early Learning Centre Inc. we are committed to providing a play based program for children in a secure physical, emotional and intellectual environment. The children will be given many opportunities to explore hands-on experiences, under the supervision of caring, trained and committed staff. The staff share a genuine interest in children and seek to personalize their relationships with both the children and their parents/guardians. A parent’s/guardian’s interest and input in their child’s intellectual, social and physical development is invaluable and is shared by the staff. We believe that we have so much to learn from our children and sincerely hope that together we can discover and share all delights each child sees and experiences as they grow.

PRESCHOOL GOALS

1. To grow in independence

2. To give, share, and receive attention

3. To develop awareness and respect for individual and cultural differences

4. To enhance fine and gross motor skills

5. To develop self-control, self-direction, responsibility and positive self-image

6. To practise cooperation, sharing and thoughtfulness toward others

7. To develop an appreciation and respect for themselves, others and their environment

PRESCHOOL PLAN

Funshine’s physical spaces for preschool children have been strategically organized to allow the children to access many different learning areas. The learning areas help children learn about the world around them. Areas such as play-dough provide an opportunity for tactile learning. Small motor skills and spatial awareness is learned through art and puzzles. The structure of the activities is very flexible yet organized and consistent. There are quiet play areas, free play areas, sitting areas, running and climbing areas, and areas for imaginative expression. There are different areas for working with the mind, hands or body, from which the child may choose his/her activity. The staff moves with the children to the area and activity they choose. By choosing his/her activity the child sets his/her own direction and can explore it as deeply as he/she wants. The staff members provide the supplies, skills, and support needed.

Each learning centre consists of many different toys and equipment. We encourage children to leave their own toys at home to avoid them being lost or confused with toys from the centre/program.

PRESCHOOL CURRICULUM STATEMENT

We believe that children learn most effectively through play. Therefore, a large part of the children’s day is involved in supervised free play. Children learn how to make positive choices, build relationships with others, problem-solve and cooperate with others during their play.

Our staff create learning experiences that build children’s self-esteem, confidence, independence, character, compassion and empathy towards others. We also instil in children respect and consideration for themselves, for others and for their own and others’ belongings. We support each individual child in our program and give all children the opportunity to develop physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually to their fullest potentials.

Our daily schedule is flexible to meet the needs of the children but predictable to provide a sense of security. We minimize the amount of transitions the children experience throughout the day and guide children during these times with songs, stories and conversation. Every aspect of the day, including routines and transitions such as diapering and hand-washing, is important and an opportunity for teachable moments and positive interactions with children. Our staff role model and actively listen to the children which develops respect for them and others as well as strong team building skills. Every interaction with children is an opportunity for stimulating, educating, and nurturing their development. Our staff builds relationships by talking with the children using open ended questions to stimulate growth in all developmental areas.

By observing children in play, we are able to discover what captures their interests and curiosities. Staff talk regularly to discuss these observations which allow us to decide what types of toys and equipment to provide in the activity centres and what activities to offer to increase the children’s knowledge and skills. We set up numerous activity centres throughout the room which encourage the children to interact one-on-one or in a small play group. For example, children learn math concepts in the block centre, develop physical, cognitive and social skills at the sand and water tables and practice their fine motor skills at the art centre. Children choose the areas they wish to play in and staff guide and interact with them at their level while maintaining eye contact and engaging in purposeful conversation.

Staff provides activities that are child-inspired. As with activity areas in the room, we develop staff-led activities by observing children’s interests and expanding upon them. For example, we noticed the children building castles with blocks so a castle/fairy-tale area was planned. From this experience the children practiced their language skills, social skills and used their imagination.

Staff develops meaningful relationships with our families by taking the time to share stories about their children and engage in daily conversations with them. All families are encouraged to share their culture and special interests with us. This way, the children learn about each other’s similarities and differences. When permitted, families are invited to participate in our program by volunteering, being a guest speaker at group time, bringing in snacks, and sharing information or items representing their background such as books, photos and experiences from home. Diversity is part of our everyday experience and the staff foster children’s attitudes towards the acceptance of differences in languages, cultures, abilities and lifestyles. We incorporate celebrations and events that are pertinent to our families and community and plan various field trips, special guests, presentations, music, and parties to expand the children’s experiences.

Information about the children’s learning and development is provided to families through one or more of the following: Fastoche, email (monthly newsletters), Remind 101, a private Facebook group, and most importantly daily interactions with the child’s parent/guardian. We display artwork and photos taken of the children engaged in activities throughout the day. Photos are shared through Fastoche (F l & F ll) and in a private Facebook group (F3).

We determine the effectiveness of our interactions, activity centres and activities by observing happy, engaged children meeting their developmental milestones. Our curriculum is flexible and is continually changing to meet the children’s needs and abilities while supporting their varying interests.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM DAILY SCHEDULE (Funshine l and Funshine ll)

A regular day at Funshine l and Funshine II follows the day-to-day schedule below. This is a basic guideline for Funshine staff to follow on a day-to-day basis. However, the schedule is also flexible to allow the children to take in special activities, parties, and any events that may require additional time. The schedule is likely to change when the weather allows for more outside activity.

7:30 am Arrival and free-play (sensory, art, invitational tables and learning centres are open for choice play)

9:30 am AM SNACK (begin and finish with hand-washing)

10:00 am OUTDOOR PLAY (weather permitting)

11:30 am CIRCLE/STORY TIME

11:30 am GROUP 1 LUNCH (bathroom, hand-washing)

12:00 pm GROUP 2 LUNCH (bathroom, hand-washing)

12:30 pm NAP TIME or QUIET TIME (stories, puzzles, fine motor)

2:30 pm GROUP 1 SNACK

3:00 pm GROUP 2 SNACK

3:30 pm FREE-PLAY (OUTDOOR/INDOOR)

5:30 pm LAST DEPARTURE

PRESCHOOL FEES (Funshine l and Funshine ll)

As a licensed day care, fees are set by the Manitoba Child care Association.

PRESCHOOL (24 months to 6 years) $20.80 Full day

PRESCHOOL MEAL FEE $5.00/day * see explanation below

Preschoolers who are in diapers will be charged $6.00 per billing period to cover the cost of wipes.

*The meal fee includes 2 snacks and 1 lunch each day. If you choose to opt out of the meal program, you must provide 3 proper meals from home following Canada’s Food Guide. If we are required to supplement your child’s meal at any time you will be charged the full meal fee for that day.

Fees are based on a full time spot, not on attendance. Fees are charged for civic, statutory, and other holidays. Meal fees are charged based on the care schedule submitted by the caregiver in four week blocks, no refund is given after the fact (example if a child was sick and didn’t attend, including absences due to the Covid-19 pandemic).

When a child is in Kindergarten, the family has the choice between full time or part time care.

• A full time spot guarantees care on in-service days, christmas break, spring break, and the following summer. They are also able to come to the centre before and after school on their kindergarten days, if care is needed.

• A part time spot only has care every other day on their non-kindergarten days. They will only have care every other day for christmas break, spring break, and the following summer. They are not able to come to the centre before and after school on their kindergarten days.

An invoice for care will be emailed one week prior to the start of the billing period. It will be due within 7 days, on the first day of the billing period. We accept post-dated cheques, credit card or e-transfer. Post dated cheques are to be dated for the first date on the schedule. Credit cards are subject to a 0.25 (twenty five cent) fee PLUS a 2.9% charge on your following invoice to cover the fees that we incur from credit card payments.

To withdraw from any FELC Inc program 3 weeks notice is required.

There will be an additional charge of $30.00 for any cheque that is returned to the centre NSF (non sufficient funds)

Once your account becomes 30 days past due FELC Inc reserves the right to revoke services.

PRESCHOOL DAILY SCHEDULE (MARY MONTGOMERY/Funshine 3)

9:30-10:15 as well as 1:15-2:00 Children arrive and are free to participate in an art activity as well as play and explore various learning centres throughout the classroom.

10:15-10:45 as well as 2:00-2:30 Clean-up, snack time. Children will clean up their toys and head to the bathroom and wash hands before snack.

10:45-11:00 as well as 2:30-2:45 Gym time and gross motor activities as well as possible outdoor activities.

11:00-11:30 as well as 2:45-3:15 Circle time. Children learn about the weekly theme through song, literature, music, movement and other activities.

PRESCHOOL SUPERVISION (MARY MONTGOMERY/Funshine 3)

Going to Washrooms: The children in preschool are escorted to the washroom by a staff member. When in the gym, all children use the washrooms in the adjacent change rooms.

Parental permission for indirect supervision is indicated on the Enrollment Form. Should you have any concerns with the procedures above, you may contact the Lead Staff or Director so that other arrangements can be made.

PRESCHOOL ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL (MARY MONTGOMERY/Funshine 3)

Arrival: Children can be dropped off at 9:25am or 1:10pm. We will meet you outside and adhere to current public health guidelines. Please no early drop offs. Please avoid parking in the bus loop or staff parking lot.

Dismissal: Please wait in your car or visit on the sidewalk until we come out. If someone out of the norm is picking up your child please let us know at drop off or call 204-748-4462 or via Remind 101.

PRESCHOOL CLOSURE (MARY MONTGOMERY/Funshine 3)

Preschool programs at Mary Montgomery have the same school closure policy as Fort La Bosse School Division. If the school is closing, so will this program. Schools will be closed when a minus temperature and wind speed create a windchill factor of -45 C or when visibility and/or road conditions make it unsafe to travel. You will be notified electronically if you signed up for Remind 101 (via text message). We will not be making individual phone calls. If you are unsure, call Funshine at 748-1623 or check the Fort La Bosse website www.flbsd.mb.ca .

PRESCHOOL FEES (MARY MONTGOMERY/Funshine 3)

PRESCHOOL $10.40/session

Fees are based on the number of days committed to when registering for the program. No refund is given for days that are closed due to inclement weather, if your child is sick, absences due to the Covid-19 pandemic, etc. There is no charge for civic, statutory, and other holidays.

An invoice for care will be emailed one week prior to the start of the billing period. It will be due within 7 days, on the first day of the billing period. We accept post-dated cheques, credit card or e-transfer. Post dated cheques are to be dated for the first date on the schedule. Credit cards are subject to a 0.25 (twenty five cent) fee PLUS a 2.9% charge on your following invoice to cover the fees that we incur from credit card payments.

There will be an additional charge of $30.00 for any cheque that is returned to the centre NSF (non sufficient funds)

To withdraw from any FELC Inc program 3 weeks notice is required.

Once your account becomes 30 days past due FELC Inc reserves the right to revoke services.

FUNSHINE SCHOOL AGE CARE

At our Funshine School Age program we strive to accommodate and facilitate a school age program on in-service and school holiday breaks, as well as a daily morning and after school program. We are committed to providing an environment with age appropriate activities, interactions, space/furnishings and a program structure. Time is allowed daily for homework and study, and the implementation of themes and special activity days are established with experienced, qualified and caring staff. We provide the flexibility and structure in our program to foster the development of the school age child.

SCHOOL AGE GOALS

1. To grow positive peer interactions

2. To experience multiple opportunities for learning and practising skills

3. To enhance and promote positive communication

4. To encourage individualism and respect for self and others

5. To participate in a variety of indoor/outdoor experiences involving problem solving skills and interaction

6. To provide opportunities to complete school assignments, with assistance and supervision

7. To provide programming for school age students during the summer, spring break and Christmas vacation.

SCHOOL AGE DAILY SCHEDULE

A regular day at school age follows the day-to-day schedule below. This is a basic guideline for

Funshine staff to follow on a day-to-day basis. However, the schedule is also flexible to allow

the children to take in special activities, parties, and any events that may require additional

time. The schedule is likely to change when the weather allows for more outside activity.

7:30 am Children arrive and choose activities/areas

7:30 am to 12:00 pm Free Play; A Variety of Activities that may include Art/Science/Cooking/Craft

Am Snack

Gym Time if accessible

Outdoor Play weather permitting

12:00 pm Lunch

1:00 pm Quiet Time (Quiet activities such as reading, puzzles, coloring, listening to music, stories)

1:30 pm Outdoor play weather permitting

Gym time if accessible

A variety of activities that may include Art/Science/Cooking/Craft

Snack

5:30 pm Children go home.

SCHOOL AGE MEALS

When a child attends for a full day (in-service/summer/other), you must provide 3 meals from home following Canada’s food guide. If we are required to supplement your child’s meal at any time you will be charged the full meal fee of $5.00 for that day.

SCHOOL AGE ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE

Arrival: The main entrance at Mary Montgomery school is unlocked from 7:30am until 8:50am. Drop your child off at the main entrance and they can walk down to the designated room in the school. No parents are allowed in the school at this time. Please avoid parking in the bus loop or staff parking lot.

Departure: Drive into the bus loop, stop at the 5th large window from the main entrance. The staff will give a wave and send your child out to the main entrance. If the weather permits, they may be outside in the playground. A sign will be posted in the window if so.

SCHOOL AGE CLOSURES

The school age program has the same school closure policy as Fort La Bosse School Division. If the school is closing due to inclement weather etc., so will this program. Schools will be closed when a minus temperature and wind speed create a windchill factor of -45 C or when visibility and/or road conditions make it unsafe to travel. You will be notified electronically if you signed up for Remind 101 (via text message). We will not be making individual phone calls. If you are unsure, call Funshine at 748-1623 or you can also check the Fort La Bosse website www.flbsd.mb.ca .

SCHOOL AGE SUPERVISION

INDIRECT SUPERVISION

Due to the physical location of the centre within the school and the developmental ages of the children, indirect supervision occurs on a daily basis for children enrolled in Grades 1 to 6. The following safety measures are in place to make sure that the child returns to the directly supervised area within a reasonable amount of time.

Going to Washrooms

• The children use the washrooms in the hallway directly outside the centre classroom. School age children must tell the staff when they need to leave the room to use the washroom. Children write their name and time left on the white board by the door (staff assists when necessary). The door to the classroom is left open so that staff can hear the children if they need assistance. The children are to tell the staff and remove their name from the white board when they return to the classroom.

• If the children are outside in the playground, they need to tell the staff if they need to go inside to the use the washroom. The staff writes the children’s name and time left on the list of children taken outside and remove it when they return to the playground.

• Staff is to monitor how long the children have been away from the directly supervised area and go check on the children if they do not return within a reasonable amount of time (approximately 5 minutes).

Going to Water Fountains

• The children use the water fountains directly outside the centre classroom. Children must tell the staff and leave the door open. Staff is to check on the children if they do not return within a reasonable amount of time (30 seconds to 1 minute).

Parental permission for indirect supervision is indicated on the Enrollment Form. Should you have any concerns with the procedures above, you may contact the Lead Staff or Director so that other arrangements can be made.

SCHOOL AGE FEES

As a licensed day care, fees are set by the Manitoba Child Care Association.

Two sessions $8.60 (includes both before and after school care)

In-service, summer and other full days $20.80

Fees are based on a full time spot, not on attendance. Fees are charged for civic, statutory, and other holidays. At this time, there will be no refunds given for absences including those due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

An invoice for care will be emailed one week prior to the start of the billing period. It will be due within 7 days, on the first day of the billing period. We accept post-dated cheques, credit card or e-transfer. Post dated cheques are to be dated for the first date on the schedule. Credit cards are subject to a 0.25 (twenty five cent) fee PLUS a 2.9% charge on your following invoice to cover the fees that we incur from credit card payments.

To withdraw from any FELC Inc program 3 weeks notice is required.

There will be an additional charge of $30.00 for any cheque that is returned to the centre NSF (non sufficient funds)

Once your account becomes 30 days past due FELC Inc reserves the right to revoke services.

FUNSHINE GENERAL INFORMATION

ADMINISTRATION

Funshine Early Learning Centres Inc. is a non-profit, charitable organization which receives an annual operating grant from the Provincial Government. Our organization is licenced for 138 spaces, which consist of the following

• Funshine l: 40 spaces (8 infants, 32 preschool);

• Funshine II: 66 spaces (12 infants, 54 preschool);

• Preschool: 17 preschool spaces;

• School Age: 15 school age spaces.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

A volunteer board of directors oversees the operation of Funshine. The board consists of parents/caregivers of the children attending our centers and members of the community (as elected by the board of directors). The daily operation of the centre is the responsibility of the Executive Director. We are government regulated and inspections are done by the Health Inspector, Fire Commissioner and Day Care Coordinator.

ADMISSION FORMS

The following forms must be completed for each child requiring day care and returned to Funshine prior to admission:

1. Enrolment Application Form (Please ensure medical information is completed and accurate.)

2. Authority for Emergency Medical Care

3. Custody papers/court orders pertaining to your child.

4. Release Form (publicity, videotaped observations, field trips, social media-newspaper or Funshine Early Learning Centre Inc Facebook page) NOTE: that the release form can be changed at any time.

5. Uris Health Care Form

6. Fastoche agreement and online registration completed

The information on these forms will allow Funshine staff to better understand the needs of your child. Parent(s)/Guardian(s) must ensure that these files are kept up-to-date. All of these forms will be updated annually.

INCLUSION POLICY

Children with special needs including physical, mental, behavioural or emotional disabilities may be accepted after receiving an individual assessment. We will make every effort to accommodate children with additional support needs, to give all children the opportunity to develop physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually to their fullest potentials. We will provide an environment and experiences that promote growth in all areas of a child’s development.

GOAL STATEMENT

Our goal is to be inclusive in providing developmentally appropriate group experiences for all children in a secure, stimulating, and child-centered environment. It is our hope that children will socialize with their peers and will create meaningful relationships. We recognize all children have specific abilities and needs, as well as a unique relationship to the world reflecting their family’s background, history, and culture.

INDIRECT SUPERVISION

There may be times and opportunities for indirect supervision throughout the day, but it will be based on the developmental capabilities of the individual child. We support the need for children to occasionally use a small space with increased privacy for quiet play, or when feeling tired, provided that staff members are able to adequately supervise this space. Staff will provide indirect supervision during instances such as bathroom times. They will provide supervision by listening and asking if the child needs help. The staff would ensure that the children were of an appropriate age and development. For example, a four year old may not require direct supervision while going to the bathroom. Some children prefer that the door be closed while using the bathroom and in this situation the staff person would provide indirect supervision by listening and talking to the child.

COMMUNICATION

Daily communication between parents/guardians and staff will be child- and family centered and focus on the child’s strengths. Communication may be verbal interactions and/or through Fastoche (online communication tool). When necessary, meetings may be called between parents/guardians, centre staff and other service providers in order to establish and evaluate goals for the individual child. Informed consent is required from families in order to share information about children with other professionals that may be asked to collaborate with staff members in developmental goal setting. Any information concerning your child and family is kept in confidentiality.

NUTRITION

Funshine offers a nutrition program that has been reviewed and approved by a registered dietician. All meals served at Funshine must meet the Canada Food Guide. A copy of the nutrition program menu is available upon request. The cost is $5.00 per day for Infants and Preschoolers.

Costs for the Nutrition program will be added to the monthly bill. Note that the cost of the nutrition program is not included in your child care tax receipt.

For parents/guardians that choose to send meals instead of using the Nutrition Program, two snacks and one lunch must meet the Canada Food Guide. If the meals do not meet the Canada Food Guide, Funshine will add to the meal to meet the Food Guide standard. If this occurs, the parent/guardian will be charged for the daily nutrition program fee.

No candies, gum, soft drinks, etc. are allowed. Due to the risk of nut allergies, Funshine strives to be nut free (i.e. no peanut butter). Please do not bring or send food to Funshine that may contain nuts (i.e. cookies, peanut butter & toast, etc)

REGISTRATION

To add your child to the waitlist for the Infant or Preschool programs, email Laura at enroll@funshineearlylearning.ca

To enroll your child into the Preschool program at Mary Montgomery, email Sherron at funshine3@funshineearlylearning.ca

To add your child to the waitlist for the School Age program at Mary Montgomery, email Sherron at funshine3@funshineearlylearning.ca

WAITLIST

This child care centre maintains a list of children and families for whom there is not space for at the current time. This list is consulted as spaces become available and families are contacted in order of entry on the waiting list.

PRIORITY

Spots are filled by considering the following:

• Children of staff members,

• Families that are members of Funshine centres,

• Order of entry onto the waiting list

HOURS OF OPERATION (subject to change depending on enrolment).

Funshine l Monday to Friday 7:30 am to 5:30pm

Funshine II Monday to Friday 7:30 am to 5:30pm

Preschool at Mary Montgomery/F3

Monday to Thursday Morning Session 9:30 am – 11:30 am

Monday to Thursday Afternoon Session 1:15 pm – 3:15 pm

School Age at Mary Montgomery/F3

Monday to Friday Morning Session 7:30 am – 8:45 am

Monday to Friday Afternoon Session 3:40 am – 5:30 pm

Summer & In-service days 7:30 am – 5:30 pm

Preschool & school age programs will operate following the Fort La Bosse School Calendar.

Funshine is open all year round, with the exception of weekends and civic, statutory, and other holidays.

Please be advised that the center will be closed on the following days:

New Year’s Day

Canada Day

Remembrance Day

Louis Riel Day

August Civic Holiday

Christmas Eve (½ day)

Good Friday

Labour Day

Christmas Day

Victoria Day

Thanksgiving Day

Boxing Day

New Year’s Eve (½ day)

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Families who would normally attend on any of the above days will be charged as usual for the closure. Parents will be notified of additional closures as they arise.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE

Children are to be dropped off /picked up no more than fifteen minutes from their regular drop off/pick up time, as identified on the enrolment form. Please notify Laura at enroll@funshineearlylearning.ca if there will be changes to your regular drop off/pick up times.

Arrival: bring your child to the main door and ring the buzzer. Wait for a staff member to come and greet your child.

Departure: ring the buzzer at the main door or go to the gate and wait on the outside, if the children are outside. Ensure staff are aware that your child is leaving. Only parents/guardians or designated alternates are allowed to pick up children, unless Funshine has received prior permission from the parent/guardian to release the child to another adult (designated alternate names and phone numbers are identified on the initial registration form).

There will be a late fee of $20.00 charged for every fifteen minutes after closing time that a child has to remain at the centre due to failure to be picked up on time. The emergency contact will be called after 15 minutes if prior arrangements for late pick up have not been made. There will be no receipt issued for this payment and it will be included in the next monthly billing. If the parents are late more than three times FELC Inc. reserves the right to revoke their childcare services.

CLOSURES

In the instance of a centre closure, due to extreme weather, loss of hydro or water or other disaster, a message will be sent out on Fastoche. If you are unsure, call Funshine at 748-1623.

FEE PAYMENT

Fees are based on a full time spot, not on attendance. Fees are charged for civic, statutory, and other holidays (with the exception of the Mary Montgomery Preschool program). At this time, there will be no refunds given for absences including those due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

FELC Inc. believes it is important for children to have vacation time away from the centre with their families throughout the year, taken when convenient for the family. However, there is no vacation entitlement for our families, meaning, you will be charged for regularly scheduled days throughout the year, whether your child attends or not.

Kindergarten

When a child is in Kindergarten, the family has the choice between full time or part time care.

• A full time spot guarantees care on in-service days, christmas break, spring break, and the following summer. They are also able to come to the centre before and after school on their kindergarten days if care is needed.

• A part time spot only has care every other day on their non-kindergarten days. They will only have care every other day for christmas break, spring break, and the following summer. They are not able to come to the centre before and after school on their kindergarten days.

Meal Fees

Meal fees are charged based on the care schedule submitted by the parent/guardian in four week blocks, no refund is given after the fact (example: if a child was sick and didn’t attend, including absences due to the Covid-19 pandemic).

It is expected that families either opt in or opt out of the meal program so FELC can budget for groceries and limit food waste.

The meal fee includes 2 snacks and 1 lunch each day. If you choose to opt out of the meal program, you must provide 3 proper meals from home following Canada’s Food Guide. If we are required to supplement your child’s meal at any time you will be charged the full meal fee for that day.

Additional Charges

Infants, toddlers and preschoolers who are in diapers will be charged $6.00 per billing period to cover the cost of wipes.

Please provide a labelled bottle of sunscreen in the summer months for your child. If you choose not to, a $20 fee will be added to your May billing period invoice for FELC to provide it.

Payment

An invoice for care will be emailed one week prior to the start of the billing period. It will be due within 7 days, on the first day of the billing period. We accept post-dated cheques, credit card or e-transfer. Post dated cheques are to be dated for the first date on the schedule. Credit cards are subject to a 0.25 (twenty five cent) fee PLUS a 2.9% charge on your following invoice to cover the fees that we incur from credit card payments.

There will be an additional charge of $30.00 for any cheque that is returned to the centre NSF (non-sufficient funds).

Once your account becomes 30 days past due FELC Inc. reserves the right to revoke services.

To withdraw from any FELC Inc. program 3 weeks notice is required.

GOVERNMENT SUBSIDY

The provincial government provides subsidies for daycare for children of working parents, parents in school, medical problems, or social needs, provided the subsidy criteria are met. Parents in the process of applying for a subsidy are responsible for fee payment until approval is received. Subsidy applications are available from the Director. Parents/guardians must ensure that their subsidy is renewed and approved, as required. Failure to renew a subsidy will result in the parents/guardian being billed for any fees not covered by the subsidy.

For more information on the subsidy, you may contact the provincial day care office in Brandon at 1-800-230-1885 or contact the Director of Funshine at 748-1623.

STAFF/SUPERVISION

All Employees of Funshine Early Learning Centre Inc. hold a current certificate in First Aid and CPR.

The following adult to child ratios are followed:

1 adult to 4 infants

1 adult to 6 transitional infant/preschool

1 adult to 8 preschoolers

1 adult to 15 school age

ILLNESS

Each morning a Questionnaire will be texted to the parent/guardian. If you are not receiving this questionnaire please let a staff member know immediately. Funshine follows the most up to date Public Health directives. The daycare program is planned for healthy, energetic children. Funshine will not accept children who are sick.

If a child becomes ill while at Funshine, the parent/guardian will be notified and asked to remove him/her from the centre as quickly as possible. Examples of illness include: a fever in excess of 37.8˚C (100˚F), vomiting, earache, diarrhea or other symptoms that keep the child from joining and participating in activities.

A staff member can give prescription medication to a child, with a second staff member as witness, provided the following:

1. A medication sheet has been signed by the parent

2. The prescription is in the original container and prescribed by a doctor.

3. The prescription is for the particular child.

All medications must be handed to a staff member by a parent or guardian. Medicine will be kept in a locked cabinet out of reach of children. Non-prescription medicines may be administered providing a medication sheet is signed. Funshine staff will not administer fever-reducing medication to children. Children who are teething can receive medication for pain associated with teething. If a child contacts a communicable disease, they must follow the Public Health department rules regarding isolation periods. A doctor’s written approval may be required for re-entry into the centre.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Our child care centers support on-going staff training based on specific health needs of children. In order to safely accommodate children with more complex medical conditions, individual health care plans are developed by an external nursing agency, which then provides training directly to our centre staff members. In some situations, a primary caregiver may be assigned to a child, but all staff will be expected to provide care for all children. Safety needs of all children are of utmost priority for staff members.

INJURIES

Funshine strives to provide a safe environment for the children. However, we are aware of the nature of children and the reality that accidents do happen. It is common for children to get bumps, scrapes, and other minor injuries during the course of the day. Sometimes, children continue playing without realizing they are injured so staff may be unaware of an injury if children do not react.

When Funshine staff are aware of a child with a minor injury, parents/guardians will be told when they pick their child up. An Incident Report Form will be shown to the parent(s)/guardian to sign and will be kept in the child’s personal file.

If the injury is major, the parent/guardian will be contacted immediately.

Funshine Staff are trained in First Aid and CPR.

EMERGENCIES/EVACUATIONS

In the event of an emergency the parent/guardian(s) will be informed as soon as possible. If a child requires medical care, an ambulance will be called. If an ambulance is required, all cost will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Funshine staff cannot transport children under any circumstance.

Funshine I has fire drill training, each month to prepare the children in case of an emergency. In the event that the daycare centre has to be evacuated, Funshine has emergency exits leading directly outside. All staff and children will meet at 228 Oxford Street and parents will be called if possible.

Funshine II has fire drill training, each month to prepare the children in case of an emergency. In the event that the centre has to be evacuated, Funshine II has emergency exits leading directly outside. All staff and children will meet at the Virden Junior High-447 Princess Street West, and parents will be called if possible.

Funshine Preschool & Schoolage Program at Mary Montgomery school has fire drill training each month to prepare the children in case of an emergency. In the event that Preschool/Schoolage must be evacuated, staff and children will use emergency exits. All staff and children will meet at 472 Lyons Street and parents will be called if possible.

CHILD ABUSE

By law, Funshine Early Learning Centre Inc. is required to report ANY suspected abuse of children attending the centre. Any such cases will be reported to and investigated by Child and Family Services of Western Manitoba. Child and Family Services of Western Manitoba can be reached at 1-800-483-8980 or locally 204-748-4249.

BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT

Funshine Early Learning Centres Inc strives to provide a program that is a safe and nurturing environment in which children can grow, develop, play, and socialize.

Staff will use different ways to encourage proper behaviour, including modeling, talking, listening, repeating and rewarding good behaviour. Staff will attempt to change any behaviour which threatens this safe and nurturing setting. At the same time, Funshine will attempt to provide ways for children to express their emotions, but also praise and encourage positive behaviours. Staff will take into account the individual developmental differences between children when using the behaviour management policy.

1. If a child displays behaviour such as biting, hitting, pushing, etc., he/she will be removed from the area to a quieter location where a staff member and the child can discuss the incident in a way that is related to the child’s development, maturity and ability to understand.

2. If the child’s behaviour continues or gets worse, Funshine staff will assess the situation and talk with the parent(s)/guardian to come up with a plan to solve the problem.

3. If the behaviour continues and is deemed to be a physical threat to the other children; the Board will be advised of the situation.

If this occurs, parent(s)/guardians will be advised that the situation has reached a serious point, and if improvement is not shown within 5 days, Funshine reserves the right to suspend the child from the day care centre.

4. In accordance with the Provincial Daycare Licensing Standards (subsection 9) Funshine “will not permit, practice or inflict any form of physical punishment, verbal or emotional abuse or denial of physical necessities for any child in attendance.”

In extreme cases the staff may feel it is necessary to seek parental/guardian permission to have a developmental assessment done by some professional service.

CODE OF CONDUCT/SAFETY PLAN

A copy of the code of conduct is below. Our safety plan is available in each centre for parents/guardians to sign out and read if they wish. We strive to provide a safe, enjoyable, learning environment for the children.

CODE OF CONDUCT

At Funshine Early Learning Centre (daycare, preschool and school age programs), we strive to provide a safe, caring, learning environment for children, staff and families.

We believe in the equality of all people and respect diversity.

The following people are expected to behave in a respectful manner and comply with this code of conduct:

• management and staff members

• children

• parents/guardians of children enrolled

• all others involved with our centre

Guiding Principles for Appropriate Behaviour

Be Respectful

We are respectful of ourselves and other people. We are respectful of the ideas and feelings of others. We are respectful of the environment, equipment and materials.

Be Safe

We work and play safely to help keep ourselves and others from getting hurt.

Be Cooperative

We solve our problems by talking and listening to each other respectfully to find a solution. When we cannot solve a problem ourselves, we ask for help.

Be Supportive of Learning

We learn to the best of our abilities and support the learning of others.

Developmental Capabilities of Children

We understand that it is normal for children to display inappropriate behaviour at times for a variety of reasons. The developmental capabilities of each child will always be considered when determining both expectations for behaviour and consequences of inappropriate behaviour.

Appropriate Use of Technology

All children, parents, staff and others involved in our centre must use e-mail, electronic devices and the Internet according to our policies. This protects people’s privacy and the confidentiality of information.

Unacceptable Behaviours

The following behaviours by children, staff, parents and others involved in our centre are unacceptable:

• all forms of bullying (physical, verbal, emotional, social or cyber bullying), including comments, actions or visual displays that are intentional, hurtful and repetitive

• harassment, including behavior that degrades, demeans, humiliates or embarrasses someone that a reasonable person would know is unwelcome and all forms of abuse (sexual, physical or psychological), including verbally, in writing or otherwise

• discrimination against any person or group because of their race, color, ancestry, nationality or place of origin, ethnic background, religion, age, sex, gender-determined characteristics, sexual orientation, marital and family status, source of income, political belief and physical or mental disability

• actions that put another person at risk of harm, including violent physical acts (with or without a weapon) and threatening someone

Proactive Strategies

We actively strive to create an environment that supports the health, safety and well-being of the children by:

• having realistic and developmentally appropriate expectations for behaviour

• setting up the environment and materials to encourage appropriate behaviour and reduce potential for inappropriate behaviour

• planning a program based on children’s interests and developmental needs

• establishing consistent yet flexible schedules and routines that help children gain trust, security and self-control

We create a positive environment for children, parents, staff and others involved in our centre by:

• developing positive relationships, including making time to talk and listen

• establishing clear, consistent, simple limits, policies and procedures

• stating limits in a positive way and periodically reminding people

• providing explanations for limits, policies and procedures

• working together to solve problems

• modelling and encouraging appropriate behaviour

Consequences for Inappropriate Behaviour

We will consistently respond to inappropriate behaviour by children, parents, staff and others involved in our centre by:

• reminding people of expectations, limits, policies and procedures

• using a respectful approach to explain why a behaviour is inappropriate and what behaviour is expected

• talking only about the behaviour, not labelling the person

• responding sympathetically and acknowledging feelings

• establishing natural, logical consequences

Depending on the severity and frequency of the behavior, we will consider further steps such as:

• using behavioural analysis to learn what may be contributing to a child’s inappropriate behaviour and how to help reduce or eliminate the behaviour

• having a formal or informal meeting to discuss concerns and to develop an action plan to encourage appropriate behaviour in the future

• developing a written contract with an adult or older child that outlines specific expectations and consequences

• giving a written warning that outlines specific concerns and consequences if the behaviour continues

• accessing outside resources for help, such as:

• a behavior specialist or other professionals to help staff understand and reduce a child’s inappropriate behavior

• child and family services to access parenting supports

• mediation services to resolve conflicts between adults

• the Manitoba Human Rights Commission for information and advice to resolve an issue informally or to make a formal complaint if the behavior involves discrimination or harassment

• the police to assist with threatening behavior

In extreme cases, we will take additional steps such as:

• suspending or dismissing a staff member

• suspending or withdrawing child care services because of a child’s or family member’s inappropriate behaviour

• in the case of a visitor, not allowing the person to return to the centre

• contacting the police and/or child and family services (CFS), if the behaviour is illegal such as abuse, assault or threatening another person

INSURANCE

Funshine Early Learning Centre Inc. carries insurance coverage as required by the Child Day Care Program Licensing standard.

ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE USE POLICY

The board and staff of Funshine request that parents, guardians or designated alternates not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol when transporting their children to or from our programs. If a staff member believes that a parent, guardian or alternate is impaired, the RCMP and/or Child Family Services will be contacted immediately.

The staff, board or centre will not be held responsible for a child who is taken from their care by an impaired parent, guardian or designated alternate.

TRANSPORTATION

Parent(s)/guardian(s) must transport their child to and from Funshine. If there has been a change to a child’s normal pick up arrangement, and Funshine staff has not been made aware, the child will not be released from the centre. Funshine staff may ask to see identification, before a child is released.

The facility does not transport children. Staff vehicles will not and cannot be used for transportation of the children. The facility is not responsible for children until they arrive at the program and are not responsible after they are released. If parents wish children to attend extracurricular activities they should give written permission to the staff so that the child can be released and should arrange for transportation if necessary.

FIELD TRIPS

When Public Health directives allow, we may take children on walking trips to various locations around town. Some of these may include the following:

Coop Store Library Police Station Ice Cream

Bakery Train Station Any of the parks in town (Victoria etc)

Post Office Restaurants Schools Banks

We will send a message on Fastoche with information regarding the field trips at least one day before a walking trip. Parents/guardians always have the option of not allowing their child to participate in any of the field trips.

VIDEOTAPE AND PHOTOGRAPH POLICY

Funshine Early Learning Centre Inc. may take photographs of your child to use in our programs. From time to time, with your permission, we may send a photo to the local paper. Each parent will be required to sign a release form allowing for that photo to be printed publicly. Please remember that you are not allowed to take photos of other children without their parents’ permission.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

Parent(s)/guardian(s) can direct any concerns to the Director or any staff person of Funshine. If you or the staff prefers not to discuss a concern in the presence of a child or other children, a meeting time will be set up by the Director or staff person to discuss the concern.

If something upsetting has occurred to a child, parents are asked to let a Funshine staff know, so that the issue can be dealt with. Staff will update parent(s)/guardian(s) with any information on how the issue is resolved. If after one week the parents concern is still not resolved to your satisfaction, please submit your concern in writing to the board of directors by e-mail at board@funshineearlylearning.ca The board of directors will then ensure the necessary actions have been taken to have your matter resolved to the best of our ability. The board of directors reserves the right to withdraw a family for frivolous or inappropriate conduct. This includes misconduct while a child is on the waiting list resulting in the removal of the child’s name from the waiting list.

Any complaints that parents/guardians have should be made discreetly away from children. The facility DOES NOT tolerate loud voices, profane language or violent activity. If you have an issue with a family or child, please don’t approach them directly. The issue must be addressed to the centre and the situation dealt with discreetly.

CONFIDENTIALITY

All matters involving families within our centre, or staff or board members are strictly confidential. Information will be shared amongst staff members as required. We ask that parents/guardians respect the confidentiality of all families using the centre.

STUDENTS

Occasionally Funshine Programs may allow students from the local schools, university or community college to come into our programs. These students could be completing observations and assignments. Students will be aware that they are not allowed to use children's names and would not be allowed to use photos without parental permission.

RESPECTFUL WORKPLACE POLICY STATEMENT

Funshine Early Learning Centre Inc. is committed to maintaining a workplace free from harassment and discrimination, where employees can feel safe and are treated fairly, creating the freedom to focus on getting their work done. We believe that diversity; acceptance of differences, and respect for others creates a working environment where people can make the best of their skills, abilities and talents. We will not tolerate or condone any form of harassment or discrimination.

WHAT IS HARASSMENT AND DISCRIMINATION?

Harassment is defined as any unwelcome and offensive comment, behaviour or action

which may be deemed, by a reasonable person to be offensive, abusive, humiliating, demeaning or cause a loss of dignity. The unwelcome comment or behaviour does not have to be directed towards a specific person to be considered offensive. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Swearing

• Threatening

• Damaging gossip, lying or rumours

• Aggressive or patronizing behaviours

• Name calling and belittling

• Inappropriate gestures Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to:

• Verbal abuse including sexually suggestive remarks, jokes, innuendoes, or taunting

about a person’s body, attire, age, marital status, etc.

• Displaying of pornographic, sexually explicit, offensive or derogatory pictures

• Practical jokes which cause embarrassment or awkwardness

• Leering or other gestures

• Requests for sexual favours

E-MAIL, ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND INTERNET POLICY

Information about children, parents, staff and the centre (including photos or videos) are not being posted on any type of internet site including:

• a staff member’s personal web space

• social networking web sites (for example, blogs, MySpace, Facebook, etc.)

• public networking or file sharing sites (like Photobucket, Flickr, YouTube, etc.)

• Parents exercise caution when accepting staff as “friends” or “buddies” when using social networking sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and to make sure not to comment on daycare matters through this media

Children, staff and all others using Funshine’s computer and electronic devices must:

• respect and protect the privacy of others

• respect and protect the integrity of all electronic resources

• respect and protect the intellectual property (ideas, creations and copyrights) of others

• communicate in a respectful manner

• report threatening or inappropriate material

Inappropriate use includes:

• intentionally accessing, transmitting, copying, or creating material that:

• violates the confidentiality of children, parents, staff or the centre

• violates the centre’s code of conduct (such as messages that are pornographic, threatening, rude, discriminatory, or meant to harass)

• is illegal (such as obscenity, stolen materials, or illegal copies of copyrighted works)

• using the technological resources for personal use without the centre’s permission

Supervision and Monitoring

Authorized employees of the centre have the right to monitor the use of information technology resources and to examine, use, and disclose any data found. They may use this information in disciplinary actions, and release it to the police if it is criminal in nature.

Staff use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices

• Staff do not use cell phones and other personal electronic devices when they care for and supervise children.

• Staff makes sure that anyone who may need to contact them during working hours knows to call the centre’s phone number.

• If staff take a personal cell phone for safety purposes on outings with children, it is only used for emergency contact with the centre or a child’s parents.

• Information about children, parents, staff and the centre (including photos or videos) is not to be posted on:

  • a staff member’s personal web space

  • social networking web sites (for example, blogs, MySpace, Facebook, etc.)

  • public networking or file sharing sites (like Photobucket, Flickr, YouTube, etc.)

  • any other type of Internet website

• Staff do not accept children as “friends” or “buddies” when using any social networking sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat.

PARENT/CAREGIVER INVOLVEMENT

We value and respect parental/caregiver input. We encourage them to share their family’s culture with the staff who can then share with the other children at the Centre. We welcome comments and questions from parents and family members at any time.

We encourage parents to become meaningfully involved with our facility by volunteering time with your skills & talents. There are a number of ways you can help:

• Attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM)

• Participate in fundraising activities

• Read all correspondence to keep informed

• Participate in special work projects (spring clean ups or subcommittee of the board)

• Save various odds and ends for art projects or dressup

• Donate art supplies

If you have an idea or would like to become involved, please email the board at board@funshineearlylearning.ca