Mulberry Bush Independent School - PARENT HANDBOOK - Brattleboro Retreat
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PARENT Mulberry Bush
HANDBOOK Independent School
Intentionally Nurturing the Growth of the Whole Child.
Mulberry Bush General Purpose
Independent School Who we are learning environment. We offer an
Intentionally Nurturing the Growth of the Whole Child individualized curriculum to enhance
The Mulberry Bush Independent each child’s chance to develop the
School is a private, not-for-profit skills necessary for school readiness
PARENT HANDBOOK
early learning school operated by and to have a love of lifelong learning.
the Brattleboro Retreat. We serve
Contents approximately fifty-nine children We strive to meet all of your
1-3 l The School Age After School ages eight weeks to six years of child’s needs: physical, emotional,
General Purpose, Educational Program age. We also offer afterschool social, and intellectual. We want
The Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten
Philosophy and Goals
l
and summer programs for young parents and guardians to feel great
Summer Program
4 l The School Age Summer Program people up to the age of twelve. Our about leaving their children in our
Aftercare Program educational philosophy is based on programs. With this in mind, we have
18-19 the use of responsive classroom created the best policies possible to
4-5
Visitors to Our School techniques, outdoor curriculum, foster a safe, positive environment
Program Options
and positive behavior supports. We for children, and enhance their
20-23
5 believe in providing children with growth and learning. Please read this
Health Policies
Collaboration with WSESU developmentally appropriate social, handbook carefully. We are always
When Should You Keep
6-7 Your Child Home? emotional, and academic learning available for questions or to discuss
Registration and Enrollment Policy on Care for a Sick Child opportunities in an intentional concerns.
Child transition plan Medication Policies
Transitional objects from home Immunizations
Open door policy Notification of Neglect or Abuse
Accidents/Injuries
8-11 Fire Drills
Hours of Operation
Holiday Schedule 24-27
Harsh weather policy Supplies Your Child Will Need
Absences & vacations
28
Arrival and departure
Field Trip Policy
Cell phones
29-33
12-13
Additional Information
Discipline or Setting Limits
Birthdays
14-17 Holidays/Celebrations
Mulberry Bush Programs Parent Communication and
and Schedules Involvement Plan
l The Infant/Toddlers Programs Donations to the School
Infant/toddler schedule Schedule Changes
Two’s schedule Child-to-Staff Ratios
l The Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Tuition and Payments
School Year Program Leaving the School
l The Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Contacting the Manager and Teachers
After Care Program About Our Facility
1
Educational philosophy and goals
Our philosophy of education is based exploration by creating an environment These and other age-appropriate
on the work of Jean Piaget, Lev that is designed to give children: activities promote cognitive, physical,
Vygotsky, and Eric Erickson, pioneers l Materials that encourage growth social, and emotional growth and
who described the stages of child and discussion development. Our goals are guided by
development and who stressed the l Individual and group interactions the following objectives:
concept that learning takes place with well-trained teachers that l Maintain a safe and secure child-
through exploration. We also refer to support children’s learning oriented environment at all times.
ongoing brain development research to experiences through structured l Provide a consistent and nurturing
provide children with all the required activities and opportunities environment that encourages a
materials and teaching methods to (e.g., morning meeting and projects) wide variety of positive personal
support building the young child’s l Personal, quality, one-on-one interactions between peers and
learning brain for social competency time with children during diapering, with teachers.
and school readiness. We provide this dressing, and other daily routines. l Promote cooperative relations
among parents/guardians,
teachers, and the manager to ensure
consistency between home and the
School.
l Support parents and guardians in
any way that seems appropriate.
l Assist your child in developing all
the skills needed to be successful
in kindergarten. where children have learning
l Create a balance between group and readiness experiences in science,
individual needs, and energetic and math, and social studies.
quiet activities. l Help to ensure children feel they
l Utilize play and exploration as are competent learners.
primary mediums for promoting l Promote positive self-esteem and
each child’s learning experiences. confidence in each child enabling
l Offer a curriculum that incorporates trust in himself/herself and others.
an individualized, child-centered l Support children in developing social
approach, rich in opportunities to skills by learning to be helpful and
explore and create, through the use cooperative with peers, learning to
“ I love how well the of materials that enhance the child’s express their needs verbally and
teachers communicate overall learning. appropriately, and to share their
with me.They are all l Develop lesson plans that cover ideas and beliefs.
so loving and caring.”
language development, gross and l Use our knowledge of children’s
—Sandy
fine motor skills development, social brain development, individuality, and
interaction, music, and art while overall development to create a
maintaining a physical environment supportive learning environment.
2 3
and older (two year old) toddler the Department of Education to
classroom. provide the best education possible
for children between the ages of
Preschool Classroom: The preschool
8 weeks and 12 years of age. Our
classroom consists of children age 2
curriculum is aligned with the
to young fours.
Vermont Framework of Standards
Pre-Kindergarten Classroom: The and Learning Opportunities, which
pre-k classroom consists of children provides the basis of education for
4 to 6 years of age. students of all ages in Vermont.
Our teachers use the companion
Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten
guide to these frameworks called the
Aftercare Program: This program
Vermont Early Learning Standards
runs from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm,
when planning our programs. In our
halfdays and full day closings.
newsletter, the teachers clearly break
Please following the Mulberry Bush
down their activities and curriculum
Calendar.
in each of the learning domains.
School Age Aftercare Program: This
Our Aftercare programs— program is designed for Mulberry
philosophy and goals Bush graduates and Retreat families
to provide high quality after school
care for children 6 to 12 years of age.
The Mulberry Independent School purpose to help each child develop to
Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten and the best of his/her individual ability and Preschool and Pre-K Summer
School Age Aftercare Programs to provide an atmosphere of support Program: We have five two week
are committed to supplementing and acceptance. sessions that parents can sign their
each child’s day with positive and children up for during the summer
months. Ages 3—6.
enriching experiences. We believe
that children need to have fresh air
The Mulberry
and exercise. Whether it’s on one Bush Independent School Age Summer Program:
We have five two-week sessions
of our playgrounds, in the woods or School’s program that parents can sign their children
meadows, or in positive cooperative
games, we provide opportunities for
options up for during the summer months.
Ages 6—12.
children to decompress from their busy The Mulberry Bush Independent
day at school and be children. Many School has 6 programing options
of our public schools have cut back for your child. These options are Our collaboration The Mulberry Bush collaborates with
on recess and gym time and obesity designed to meet the learning needs with WSESU school the Windham Southeast Supervisory
of your child and to give parents
is on the rise. Children have less time
to relax and play outdoors. Therefore, choices to meet their family’s needs.
district and the Union (WSESU) as a partnership
we have designed our two aftercare Department of school to provide universal high
quality preschool education to the
Our six options are:
programs to help nurture the whole Education children in our area. We are a “High
child and to have fun-oriented activities Infant Toddler Classrooms: Quality Partner” with WSESU under
Mulberry Bush is an early learning
that promote overall wellness. It is our We have an infant/young toddler Act 166.
school working in collaboration with
4 5
Getting to know each other
Registration and Enrollment Parent(s) visit and tour the School.
Your child’s temperament and the
parent’s schedule will help decide if
Registration Important program policies If, at this point, the family wishes this transition schedule is effective.
Employees of the Brattleboro Retreat At the time of enrollment, parents/ to register their child at our School, If a child is having a difficult time
are the first to be offered eligible slots guardians will receive copies of our: the manager will give the family adjusting, we will call and ask the
in our program. Any openings not filled l Anti-discrimination & Inclusion all necessary information in the parent to pick the child up and adjust
by Retreat employees will be available policy Registration Packet. the transition accordingly. We are
to the community. We maintain a l Emergency handbook
happy to work with the parent and
The manager and family will child to make sure the transition
waiting list that consists of both l Medication Procedure handbook
discuss the needs of the family,
community and Retreat employees’ l Supports & Expulsion policy
goes as smoothly as possible.
work schedules, the child’s needs,
children. We will refer to the wait financial needs, available space
list to fill any available slots. We ask Sibling policy Children’s transitional
at the School, and then start a
that all parents fill out and submit Due to the fact that siblings* have
transition plan for the child.
objects from home
an application form available both on complicated relationships and can Mulberry Bush provides a variety
our website (brattlebororetreat.org/ distract each other from the tasks The family must complete all of play materials for your child. We
mulberry-bush-application-form) and needed to learn and grow in a school registration materials, send in understand that some children need
in paper form. We welcome families environment, we strictly avoid assigning immunization records, and pay the transitional objects from home to
who are using the state subsidy siblings to the same classroom. registration and deposit fees before school. We ask that you assist your
program or ACT 166 funding to assist Therefore, siblings who attend our the child enters our program. child in choosing a soft, cuddly toy
with tuition payments. school will not assign them to the same We will respect legal decisions as opposed to hard, inappropriate
classroom. The rare exception to this regarding issues of child custody toys, which will not be allowed in the
Enrollment process rule may involve twin siblings. and restraining orders. We ask that classroom.
The purpose of our enrollment process you submit copies of these legal
In cases where siblings are extremely Open door policy
is to provide you and your child with the documents to the School. If the legal
close in age, the manager, the Parents, guardians, and other
best possible start at our School. These documents are not submitted, we
parents, and any other team family members are welcome and
enrollment procedures are required. We cannot refuse the release of the child
representatives will meet and discuss encouraged to visit the School
require children to attend our School a to a parent.
placement to ensure both children’s at all times. Visits from parents,
minimun of 4 days per week.
needs can be met. This process can
Child transition plan guardians, and family members
include one child attending a different may include, but are not limited to
The following is a recommended plan
school or staying in a different age observing, eating lunch, nursing their
to transition children (from infancy
group, depending on what best child, volunteering to participate
to pre-k age groups) into the School.
meets the needs of the children at in an ongoing activity or sharing a
Your family and the School can
the time. story, music or crafts from various
determine what is best for your child.
*Siblings describe children who live together l 1st Day: One hour with parent cultures. Each classroom has its own
part or full time in the same house. The schedule. Please ask staff about the
present, 9:00 am—10:00 am
children can be bio-siblings, step or half-
siblings, regardless of the marital status of l 2nd Day: Child visits alone timing of visits so that your child’s
the partners or parents in the home. between 9:00 am and Noon. lunch or nap are not disrupted.
l 3rd Day: The child visits alone
We encourage you to communicate
from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. your ideas with us on how to better
serve you and your child.
6 7
Hours of Operation Both the Preschool/Pre-k and
School Age Summer Programs will
All children should arrive at the
School no later than 9:00 am.
The Infant/Toddler classrooms (on Children will be waiting starting be 8:00 am to 3:30 pm with early or Children arriving after 9:00 am
the lower level) are open from 8:00 at 3:15 pm for their parents in the late care available if the number of will be sent home unless there is a
am to 4:30 pm, Monday through pre-kindergarten room with staff parents requesting such care warrants planned late arrival. The program in
Friday. Parents can sign up for a members watching for cars. If it’s extending the day. each classroom will have started by
school year or full year program. an early release day, your children that hour.
Pre-registration is required for all
We do offer limited before care will be waiting at 11:45 am in the programs and contracts will be signed
(7:00 am to 8:00 am) and extended same location. Please do not use the for each program separately.
day care (4:30 pm to 5:30 pm) for main entrance when picking up your
an additional fee. Early or late care children on these days. It will disrupt
is available if the number of parents the program in the infant and toddler
Holiday Schedule:
requesting such care warrants classrooms and create too much foot January New Year’s Day
extending the day. traffic through the building. This February President’s Day
pickup plan is designed to be safe and May Memorial Day (and the Friday before the holiday for in-service).
All early and late care needs to be July Independence Day
quick for all.
signed up for in advance. Included August One week in-service closing at the end of the summer
in this schedule are some holidays Some preschool and pre-kindergarten program and before the new school year starts.
(see holiday schedule on following children will be signed up for our September Labor Day
page) and our annual school calendar. aftercare program. These children will November Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after Thanksgiving
We close for one early release day a be in the preschool room until the December The week of Christmas will consist of three in-service
month (12:00 noon) and for longer 3:30 pm pick up is complete and then days and two holiday closures.
in-services two times a school year will start the aftercare program in the
and for one week in the summer pre-kindergarten classroom. On the
to provide our staff with in-service 12:00 noon in-service dismissal days
trainings and classroom worktime. there is no aftercare program for any
In your financial packet, you will find age children. All staff will be involved
additional information concerning in the in-service plans for that day.
late (beyond contract time) pickups.
The Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten
Any late fees will be charged to your
Aftercare Program’s and the School
monthly tuition.
Age Aftercare Program’s hours will
The Preschool and Pre-kindergarten be outlined in the Mulberry Bush
Classrooms (upstairs) follow the calendar and will align as closely as
WSESU calendar very closely with possible with the WSESU calendar.
some exceptions. Please refer to our School age children can be bussed to
school calendar. The school day is the commons near the Brattleboro
8:00 am to 3:30 pm with a 3:30 pm Retreat to attend our program from
pick up and dismissal in front of the many local Brattleboro Schools. A
building by the porches. Children will Mulberry Bush employee will meet
have quick access to their parents’ the children at the bus stop and
cars by the front stairs and the ramp. escort them to our program.
8 9
Absences and vacation they need to use safety rules.
Please call your child’s classroom as l Please wash your hands and your
“We love the smaller
soon as possible if your child will be child’s hands upon entering the
class size and the
individual attention absent for the day. Also, please notify School. This important precaution
our daughters your child’s teacher(s) of any planned is required by state regulations and
receive.” vacations. If your child is ill please reduces the number of illnesses in
—Allison & Derek Nadeau inform the teachers of the illness so our School. Children MUST arrive
we can track illnesses at our School. at the School by 9:00 am.
You can find the phone number l Always make contact with a
for your child’s classroom in your teacher before leaving your child
registration packet. Please do not at the School or taking your child
leave information about absences from the School. If you are going
on the manager’s office phone. to be late picking up your child,
or need to bring your child earlier
Arrival and departure than your approved schedule,
NOTE: A full copy of our Arrival and you will need to make prior
Departure Policy will be distributed arrangements with the manager.
to parents and guardians as part of Notify the teacher if someone
your registration packet. Highlights other than yourself will drop off
Snow Days and the Retreat Any enactment of the Harsh Weather
include: or pick up your children. We will
Harsh Weather Policy Policy will be announced on WKVT
refuse to release him/her to any
All parents will receive a copy of (92.7 FM) and WTSA (96.7 FM). l You must accompany your child
person who does not have proper
the Harsh Weather Policy on an Please familiarize yourself with the into the School and sign in each
identification, even if they are on
annual basis. The Mulberry Bush following two key definitions: day at the daily register.
the child’s approved list of pick up
Independent School will follow A Harsh Weather Day is when l We ask that only parents and
l
people.
the WSESU weather related it’s announced on the radio that teachers open and close the
l Please conclude all cell phone
closing schedule. These weather we are running on the Harsh doors and gates at the program
calls while outside our building.
related closings and delays will be Weather Day Policy. Only children (including the playground gate).
We prefer cell phones not be
announced on local radio. of Retreat employees who have We don’t think it’s safe for
used in our program.
been pre-signed for “harsh children to be in the habit of
l If a staff member has reason to
However, a sheet will be sent home weather days” will be admitted opening and closing doors and
believe that the person who is
in the fall to allow Retreat employees to the School. A skeleton crew gates on their own while at the
picking up a child has engaged
and guardians only to sign up their of local staff will work on these program.
in any activity related to drugs,
children for special care on the days days. Children who have not l Parking area supervision: We ask
alcohol, or substance abuse that
that the School is closed due to pre-signed for this service will that all parents hold their child’s
would endanger the well-being
harsh weather. Retreat parents and not be permitted when the Harsh hand or have their child walk
(safety) of that child, the School
guardians must sign up in advance Weather Policy is in effect. very close to them when walking
will take appropriate action. We
for these days. There will only be No Radio Announcement means through our parking areas. It is
l
may ask the parent if someone
enough staffing to care for the the School is open as usual. Any very difficult to see little people
else can come and pick up the
children who have been signed up. decision to open, close, or delay through rear view mirrors, and
child or we may call the police and
For complete details, please refer to opening will be made no later such. Let’s help children learn that
notify them of our concern.
the Harsh Weather Policy. than 6:30 am. parking lots can be dangerous and
10 11
We have a written procedure
In managing children’s
l
for many aggressive behaviors,
behavior:
including biting. If you would like a
l First we examine the child’s
copy, please see the manager.
behavior to see what is being
l When a child’s behavior is
communicated to us. We believe
consistently deemed inappropriate
children communicate through
or unsafe for other children or
their behavior. While examining
staff, the manager will discuss
the child’s behaviors we will also
with the family possible help for
review the daily routines, the
the child. Many organizations in
classroom arrangement, and other
the area are designed to help child
program details to see if the child
care centers, children, and their
may have needs we can meet by
families with prolonged or intense
adjusting our programming.
behavior issues.
l We will verbally recognize a child’s
l If, after many attempts to secure
feelings. We will help children to
help for the child and to work
label these feelings and find ways
with the family to improve the
to handle them.
child’s understanding of social
l We will model appropriate
situations, there is little growth or
language, good manners, non-
the family is not interested in the
violence, patience, etc., to help
help we feel is important for the
children learn these behaviors.
development of the child, we may
l If a teacher must remove a child
ask the family to withdraw the
from a situation, she/he will speak
child from the School.
calmly about why the child was
removed, and then we will give the
child choices to help him/her avoid
Discipline or Setting Limits the situation in the future.
l We teach children mediation skills
Our policy on discipline is based on What follows are a few of the
so that they can learn to handle
respect for the individual and an techniques we use to help
social problems on their own.
understanding of the developmental children learn the complexities of
appropriateness of a child’s actions. “appropriate social behavior.”
If a child is having continuous
We don’t expect children to come to If you are interested in more detail
problems and is having
us with appropriate social behavior. about our “discipline plans” you can
difficulties learning ways of
A good part of what we do here is ask the teacher assigned to your
dealing with his/her feelings
to teach children skills to help them child’s room about what they do for
and with other children, we
be with other people, accept limits, certain behaviors. Also, we have a
will do the following:
work in a group, etc. Therefore, to Staff Manual that all staff receive l All significant behavioral issues
help teach the many skills a child at orientation when hired at the
will be discussed with the child’s
needs to be successful in life, we use Mulberry Bush. It provides a wealth
parents or guardians at the
many techniques. of information about how to handle
earliest possible convenience.
children in general.
12 13
Older Toddler Schedule
7:00 am - 7:30 am Arrival, breakfast, activities with all
Early Care children in the Two’s room
7:30 am Preschoolers, toddlers & infants go to their rooms
7:45 am - 9:00 am Free play and outside time
9:00 am - 9:15 am Morning Meeting
9:15 am - 10:00 am Morning snack and diapering / toileting
10:00am - 10:30 am Project time (one day a week the older toddlers
will have organized motor movement in our gym)
10:30 am - 11:00 am Free play, diapering/ toileting
11:00 am - 11:45 pm Outdoor or gym activity
11:45 pm - 12:15 pm Lunch
Daily Schedules 12:15 pm - 12:30 pm Free play, diapers, potty
The following schedules are approximate and have degrees of flexibility. 12:30 pm - 2:45 pm Story and naps
They offer parents and guardians an idea of the daily structure for children 2:45 pm - 3:00 pm Wake up, clean up, table activities
of various age groups. Note that while our Infant and Young Toddler room is 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm Snack
merged, each age group has its own schedule: 4:30 pm End of school day, beginning of the aftercare day
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm Outdoor or indoor play activities, closing, say goodbye!
On Fridays between 10:00-10:30 am,
children will attend All School Sing in
the older toddler classroom.
Infant Schedule
Infant schedules will be set up to coincide with established schedules at
home. Please label all formula bottles, baby food, and diapers.
Young Toddler Schedule (one year olds and older)
7:00 am - 8:00 am Early care provided in the Older Toddler room
8:00 am - 9:00 am Start school day—explore learning areas
9:00 am - 9:30 am Morning snack
9:30 am - 10:15 am Diapers, Circle Time/songs, music, games
10:15 am - 11:00 am Outdoor Activities
11:00 am - 11:30 am Wash hands, lunch preparations
11:30 am - 12:15 pm Lunch
12:15 pm - 12:45 pm Diapers, stories, ready for nap
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Naptime and quiet play
3:00 pm - 3:15 pm Wake up, clean up mats and ready for snack
3:15 pm - 3:45 pm Snack
3:45 pm - 4:30 pm Diapers and clean up
4:30 pm End of school day and start of extended day care
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm Indoor or outside play. Aftercare and activities.
14 15
Preschool and Pre-kindergarten Schedule
7:00 am - 8:00 am Early arrival, free play and breakfast in
Older Toddler room
8:00 am - 8:15 am Clean up and move to preschool room
8:15 am - 9:00 am School activities in preschool room
9:00 am - 9:20 am Clean up, toileting
9:20 am - 9:45 am Morning meeting
(greeting song, calendar, weather & story etc.)
9:45 am - 10:00 am Morning snack
10:00am - 10:20 am Morning meeting (songs and/or games, etc.)
10:00 am - 10:30 am One day a week the preschool and pre-k rooms will
have motor movement time, and on Fridays
they will attend the all school sing.
10:20 am - 10:40 am Theme Projects
10:40 am - 11:00 am Clean up, toileting, get ready to go outside
11:00 am - 12:00 pm Outside free play (or gym in weather 20 degrees °F
or colder)
12:00 pm - 12:40 pm Lunch
12:40 pm - 1:15 pm Start cleaning up lunch, toileting, brush teeth
1:15 pm - 2:30 pm Nap
2:30 pm - 3:15 pm Wake up, and snack
3:15 pm - 3:30 pm Dismissal and beginning of aftercare programing
3:30 pm - 5:30 pm Outdoor or indoor activities
5:30 pm School is closed
The School Age Program will provide programming at the end of the
normal school day, on many WSESU teacher in-service days, half days, and
many school holidays. The School Age Program is not available on Mulberry
Bush early release days or on some calendar holidays. Please use our pro-
gram calendar as a reference.
School Age Aftercare Program schedule is as follows:
3:15 pm off the bus
3:15 pm - 3:25 pm gathering, discussion, share day,
talk about plans for the rest of the day
3:25 pm - 3:40 pm wash hands and eat snack
3:40 pm - 4:30 pm playground, outside games, woods time.
4:30 pm - 5:00 pm homework (if needed) and gym or playground
5:30 pm closing of school
The after school offerings will be expanded on half and full day
programming to allow more time for the above activities.
16 17Visitors to Our School
Many types of visitors come to our School. They are with us for varied parents and guardians who are interested in enrolling their children in our
lengths of time. Please note that they do not change diapers, nor are they School or who would like to be on the waiting list to come and visit the School.
left in charge of children. Visitors may include:
Early Essential Education (EEE), Children’s Integrated
Learning Express Library Van The Community Express comes to our Services (CIS), and the Family Infant Toddler Project (FITP)
school to extend literary activities for pre-school and pre-K children. Staff from these organizations visit the School and observe children. They
provide services to children who may need developmental assistance. Children
College students We occasionally permit students to conduct classroom observed by these organizations have prior parental permission.
observations. A student who wishes to focus on one child for a particular reason
(for example, a language sampling) is required to get a parental release first. Windham Child Care Association (WCCA) This organization
also sends visitors to our School. These professionals assist our teachers in
Children of our teaching staff Our teaching staff members are getting their Child Development Associate Credential (CDA), mentor classroom
allowed to have their own children spend time at the School. These are teachers who request it, and support all of us in the field of early education.
children who are older than the children for whom we provide care. These
children do not care for children. They are only here to visit for a specific Child Care Division Occasionally the state of Vermont sends licensors to
period of time. visit us. This is part of our licensing process.
Parents/guardians As you have read, we have an open door policy. Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) Assessors come to implement
You are welcome to visit your children and have lunch if desired. We welcome the ERS assessment tool for our Step Ahead Recognition System (STARS)
renewal process.
If you have questions about “Our son has blossomed and
these visitors, please we have become stronger,
contact the manager. more confident parents.”
—The Wessel Family
18 19Health Policies than 48 hours; if there are two
episodes of diarrhea in a four-hour
physician sends a note stating
they can return.
Good health for children and staff l Polio period, then children and staff l Jaundice Yellowing of skin or
is an important issue for childcare. l Shigella (food borne) must leave the School. white part of eye
Finding care for sick children is l Diphtheria
l Vomiting Two or more episodes in l Rash With fever or behavior
one of a parent’s most difficult l Salmonella (food borne)
the previous 24 hours; children at change.
responsibilities. We have drawn up l Streptococcal infection, including
the School will be sent home after
the following guidelines for when scarlet fever, strep throat. Other symptoms of possible severe
one episode.
a child is too sick for childcare. At illness include unusual lethargy,
l Fever Greater than 101°F rectally
registration we will also disseminate Head lice and scabies irritability, persistent crying,
or 101°F orally or axillary; they
the Mulberry Bush Medication Policy Please notify the School immediately difficulty with breathing, persistent
should stay home until fever free
to all parents for you to reference if diagnosed. Lice: A child may return abdominal pain, body pain,
for 24 hours without medication.
when medication might be required to the School after appropriate disinterest in being in a classroom
l Severe Coughing Child or staff
for your child. Also, if your child has treatment is completed and nits are environment.
gets red/blue in the face or
an allergy or ongoing medication removed. Children must be nit free produces whooping or croup noise Employees of the Brattleboro
need, the medication policies will for 24 hours in order to return to The after cough. If a child is coughing Retreat should also refer to the
outline the state requirements Mulberry Bush. We have a written and throwing up they will be sent Retreat Employee Health Policy. The
for allowing us to administer lice procedure for parents to follow to home. Health Department and Infection
medications. successfully get rid of lice. Scabies, Purulent Conjunctivitis Often
l Control Coordinator must be notified
pinworm infection, and ringworm called “pink eye”—the child can promptly when a child or staff
When should you keep infection: A child may return 48 hours return to the School when a member is known or suspected to
your child home? after treatment is initiated. have certain diseases.
Keep your child at home if he/she
has any of the following: Chicken pox
l Hepatitis A Children and staff with Chicken Pox
l Campylobacter (food borne) may return seven days after the
l Chicken Pox rash appears or when all vesicles
l Bacterial Meningitis have crusted over. Clearance from
l Influenza a healthcare provider is required in
l Scabies order to return sooner than seven
l Conjunctivitis (pink eye) days after onset of rash. “ The infant
l Head Lice
Additionally, a child or staff member program at the
l Diarrhea
who has the following symptoms Mulberry Bush
l Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
has exceeded our
l Scarlet Fever
shall not be allowed to attend the
expectations in
l Rubella (German Measles)
School until the symptoms disappear
every way. It’s
l Giardia (lake, river borne)
or until otherwise indicated by a a joy to see my
l Tuberculosis (Active)
medical professional: daughter so happy
l Mumps l Diarrhea Three loose stools in a program!”
l Measles —Jill Terrell-Ouazzani
beyond what is normal in 24 hours
l Impetigo
or loose stools persisting for more
20 21“ We couldn’t be more
pleased with the teacher’s
forms and policies. It is best calm, thoughtful
practice for parents to provide all environment in the infant
needed mediations at home if at all room. The way the staff
possible. Please note that sunscreen takes care of our baby is
lotion, bug repellent, and first aid like having trusted family
creams can only be applied if an care for her.”
—Simha Ravven
authorization form has been signed.
Immunizations
The State of Vermont requires all Accidents and Injuries
childhood immunizations to be up- A staff member trained in First Aid
to-date upon entering the program. will treat minor cuts and injuries.
Children whose examinations and We strive to have all staff trained in
immunizations are not kept current both First Aid and cardiopulmonary
are subject to termination. The doctor’s resuscitation (CPR). A report
office can fax the child’s immunization informing you of the incident will be
records and health wellness forms shared with you when you pick up
directly to the manager’s office. Please your child. For more serious injuries,
see the Mulberry Bush classroom such as a cut that might need
phone sheet for the proper fax stitches or injuries that go beyond
Policy on care for a sick child available for pick up in case of number to use. our general first aid care, your child
The Mulberry Bush staff will contact emergency or illness when filling will either be taken to Brattleboro
parents or guardians when a child is out this portion of the registration Notification of neglect Memorial Hospital or we will call
not well enough to be in childcare. forms. or abuse 911. You will be notified as soon
l Determine with the parent or As childcare professionals, we are
While stressful for parents and as possible if your child has been
guardians, it must be understood guardian approximately how long mandated to report child abuse and seriously injured. Your child’s safety
that we only send children home it will take to make arrangements neglect in accordance with 33 V.S.A. is our primary concern.
that we feel are contagious with to pick up the child. Chapter 14. Child abuse can be
an illness, or are unable to manage While waiting for the parent or physical, verbal, emotional, sexual, Fire drills
being in a childcare environment. guardian, the staff will make the or neglect. If staff suspects any type Fire drills will occur once a month
When it has been determined that a child as comfortable as possible by of abuse, a report will be filed with at the discretion of the Brattleboro
child is too ill to remain in childcare, restricting play, providing a quiet rest the Vermont Department of Children Retreat. Children will practice the
the following procedure will be area with the child’s comfort object, and Families (DCF). It will be left to emergency exit procedures that are
followed by the Mulberry Bush staff: and providing extra fluids. Parents/ the discretion of the manager and the posted at the entrances. Our goals
l Contact the parent or guardian guardians should alert the Mulberry classroom teacher whether the parent are to get them out safely and for
responsible for the sick child. If Bush in writing to any changes on is informed that we have reported them to learn that it is important
the parent or guardian cannot be their emergency pickup lists. suspected abuse to the state. In order to get out quickly. Children will be
reached, we will contact other to have parents and/or guardians expected to go out without their
adults on the child’s pickup list.
Medication maintain a close relationship with the jackets. If we are asked to leave the
The staff will give medication only staff, the identity of a teacher who grounds and stay out of the building,
It’s very important that parents/
after the parent or guardian has reports suspected abuse will be kept you will be notified and asked to pick
guardians consider their child’s
completed the Medication Consent confidential. up your child.
needs for a local person to be
22 23milk substitute) or 100% juices in l Pacifier or other object needed to
early childhood programs. self-soothe
l Seasonal needs: swimsuit, small
Parents or guardians are responsible
water bottle, sunscreen lotion,
for providing their children with
towels, insect repellent, snowsuit
nutritious lunches. Please note
and boots. Please bring in clothing
that we will not allow candy, gum,
for the outdoors. It’s a terrible
or other sugary food to be served
thing for children to have to
in our classrooms. We do have
stay inside due to lack of proper
microwaves to warm foods if needed.
clothing.
We ask parents/guardians to provide l All babies one year or younger will
microwavable containers and not the
need to bring in sleep sacks for
plastic type that may leach unhealthy
napping in. No loose blankets will
chemicals into the food. Many stores
be used for infants sleeping.
“Our daughter’s face sell these types of containers and
lights up every morning they are great for packing food in NOTE: Sunscreen lotion or insect
when we drop her off.” lunch boxes. repellent will not be applied without
prior written authorization from a
Infants/toddlers and two parent or guardian. If your child is
year olds will need: still using infant formula, please
Supplies Your Child Will Need l Disposable diapers bring enough for every feeding—we
l Diaper wipes and any rash cannot re-use formula. Please label
Snack and lunch juice as well. We will not serve medication formula and baby food jars. Please
The School does not provide any children other sources of juices or All baby food, cereal, and bottles
l
also note we have limited storage
food for the children. It is up to the drinks other than milk or 100% juice. with formula, milk or juice for large boxes of diapers and food.
family to provide each child with two (absolutely no glass bottles)
We ask that preschool children Therefore, you may provide up to a
snacks and one lunch. Two or three complete changes
do not bring in sippy cups. We l
week’s worth of labeled baby food.
A snack is one protein and fruit or prefer to teach the children to of clothing
veggie. Crackers can be included. pour their drinks into cups. This
A lunch should also include a is a wonderful skill for children to
protein, veggie or fruit, and some acquire. Therefore, if you bring a
type of bread or carb if so desired. child’s thermos with your child’s
Therefore, daily we need 3 sources food, your child will have this great
of protein, 3 veggies or fruit, and opportunity. We ask that you label
additional carbohydrate for one or both the thermos and the cup with
all of the snack and lunch times. your child’s name.
Children need healthy food for
We provide a lot of water throughout
physical energy and brain power.
the day. We have metal cups for the
Please help your child be a better
children in most classrooms. New
learner and enjoy their day by
state regulations strongly discourage
providing enough food. Please send
serving anything other than milk (or
milk (or milk substitute) or 100%
24 25Preschoolers—ages 3 to 5 of all ages; i.e., mittens, hats,
for both the school year and winter snowsuit and boots, and
summer programs will need: mud pants and puddle boots.
l One or two complete changes of l We have a mud season policy and
clothing—all the clothing children procedure that will be distributed
bring to the program should be annually.
labeled with their name. Children l Appropriate footwear—have
also need to come with extra your child arrive with appropriate
clothing, properly labeled in case footwear for the weather. Keep
of spills or accidents. in mind that flip-flops and other
l We prefer children three years loose sandals or shoes don’t
and older to be toilet trained. If provide the support needed for
this isn’t possible please see the walking, climbing, playing ball, etc.
manager. For your child’s safety have them
Slippers for inside—all the clothing wear sneakers, sandals with straps,
l
“At each pick up, we
children bring to the program hiking and rain or winter boots. see how happy, loved
should be labeled with their name. Being outdoors is a huge part of and nurtured she is.”
l To preserve space in the children’s our program. Please make this
cubbies, the School will provide comfortable and safe for your child.
each child with a sheet and blanket l In the summer children will need
for naptime. We will launder these swim suits and towels for sprinkler
items here. Appropriate outdoor and wading pool fun.
School Age Children- l Summer program school age
clothing will be needed for children ages 6 to 12 will need: children 6 to 12 years will need
• Our mud season policy is also in a swim suit and towel for use in
place for our school age children. the in-ground pool here at the
The mud season policy and Retreat. The pool is maintained
procedure will be distributed by the Retreat and life guards are
annually. provided. We won’t be providing
• Appropriate footwear—have swimming lessons.
your child arrive with appropriate l On swimming days we will have
footwear for the weather. Keep a male and female staff person
in mind that flip-flops and other to attend to the children in the
loose sandals or shoes don’t separate changing rooms.
provide the support needed for l Parents will be given permission
Please label all slips to sign to allow their child to
walking, climbing, playing ball, etc.
items with your For your child’s safety have them use the pool.
child’s first and wear sneakers, sandals with straps, l School age children should bring a
last name. hiking and rain or winter boots. snack for the afternoon on normal
Being outdoors is a huge part of school days, a snack and a lunch
our program. Please make this on half days, and 2 snacks and a
comfortable and safe for your child. lunch on full days of programing.
26 27Field Trip Policy
Walking field trips and volunteers are invited to help
Field trips and nature walks are chaperone these trips. A fee may be
considered a part of our educational charged for some field trips. The two’s
program. We will be taking regular room, the preschool room, and the
trips to the park, the library, and pre-kindergarten classrooms should
other short walks. We will provide each take three field trips annually.
the same adequate and responsible
supervision as is provided in the Emergency procedures on
classroom. Your written permission field trips
is requested at the time of The ratio of children to adults is the
enrollment (Activities Consent). same as in the classrooms (page 32). Additional Information
We do strive to have chaperones or
Non-walking field trips per diems to help. If a child is injured: Birthdays Parent Communication and
These field trips are planned in l One to two adults stay with the
If you would like to celebrate your Involvement Plan
group. child’s birthday at the Mulberry We want to work closely with
advance. You will be notified about
l One adult attends to the injured
Bush, please notify your child’s parents and guardians to develop
the details in writing. No child will go
child. primary teacher one week in advance open communication regarding
on a field trip without a permission
l One adult makes the necessary
to plan the party. If you opt to have your child. For this reason we
slip and a telephone number where we
telephone calls. a birthday party outside the School, schedule parent conferences, provide
may contact you. Parents, guardians,
and need to distribute invitations, mail boxes, send home various
please either invite all the children information, and work to develop
in the classroom, or send the as many types of communication as
invitations from home. Please don’t possible so that we can support your
“ Being new to the area ask staff to hand out invitations. You child’s development. Please read the
and far away from can place the invites in the parents’ following section carefully.
friends and family, mailboxes. Our reason for these
Mulberry Bush has restrictions is that children can have l Daily posting Each classroom has
been a tremendous hurt feelings about not being invited an area that posts information
source of support and to their friends’ birthday parties. If for parents and guardians. Please
comfort for us.” you have a party at the School, we make sure the classroom teacher
—The Grutta Family ask that parents/guardians provide a has shown you where this area
healthy favorite snack as part of their is. Also, each parent has a mail
child’s birthday celebration. We ask pocket outside the classroom.
that cakes and cookies be saved for There will be a variety of
family celebrations. informational pieces put there
designed to keep you in touch
with the life of the School.
Holidays and celebrations
l Curriculum forms and daily activity
(Please see our separate holiday
boards are posted outside your
policy and parent questionnaire.)
20 child’s classroom.
28 29Donations to the School Since childhood articles, events at the
the Mulberry Bush Independent School, or ways to be involved “ The teachers
School operates on a limited budget with your child’s educational are creative and
experience. The newsletter will knowledgeable in
without a petty cash system,
early childhood
donations of reusable materials no also be posted on our website
education.”
longer needed in your home are (www.brattlebororetreat.org/
appreciated. This includes recycled mulberrybush).
materials such as: styrofoam trays, l Schedule changes All schedule
paper towel rolls, toilet paper rolls, changes need to be approved by
plastic shopping bags, plastic jars with the manager.
lids, newspaper, old calendar pictures, l Parent/teacher conferences
yarn and string, fabric scraps, empty Twice a year, teachers prepare a
food containers, and extra clothes. child development assessment
Note: Toys made for home and form to share with you (please
toys made for school are often see the permission form in
constructed very differently. As your registration packet). Each
such, all donated toy items must be classroom will post a sign-up
checked by the manager. sheet for parent conferences.
These parent conferences are
l On occasion, we send home an important way for parents,
a notice asking for parents/ guardians, and teachers to have strive to build between you, your be used to help us determine
guardians to purchase and donate an in-depth opportunity to child, and the School. our goals for the year. You are
items. These purchased items evaluate the children and their l Parent Work Groups When the welcome and encouraged to give
consist of play dough and goop development. We feel that parent need arises we will hold Parent us any information about our
ingredients, and some materials conferences are very important Work Group planning meetings School. If you would like to set
used in sensory tables (sand and in order to have a relaxed and work time. In the past we have up an individual meeting with the
water tables), plus food coloring, conversation about your child’s convened Parent Work Groups manager let her know.
flour, salt, liquid starch, vegetable development and interests, and to regarding playground upgrades, l We have a “Back to School Night”
oil, cream of tartar, cornstarch, answer any questions you might building playground equipment, each March when parents and
macaroni, beans, cornmeal, etc. have about our program. painting playground sheds, and children join together to participate
l Volunteering You and your family l Parent concerns You are helping with the vegetable garden. in some common activities that
are welcome at any time (see Open encouraged to share any concerns. Announcements for these work occur in your child’s classrooms.
Door Policy on page 7). We love to Most concerns can be resolved groups will be disseminated l Each June we have a graduation
have parents/guardians come and at the classroom level. If you and through our newsletter, posters, ceremony for the children leaving
help on field trips, read stories, a staff member have difficulty and sign-up sheets. the Mulberry Bush Independent
share cultural interests, or just reaching an agreement, you can l Annual program questionnaire A School to start Kindergarten.
have lunch with the group! discuss your concerns with the questionnaire will be sent home l During the school year each
l Parent newsletter We send home manager. Open communication annually for feedback about our classroom will have one parent
a newsletter 4 or 5 times a year. between staff and parents/ program. This questionnaire will meal for all the parents in the
In the newsletter, you will find guardians is important to the help us identify our strengths classroom to join with their
information about what your child success of your child’s experience and areas needing improvement. children and enjoy pot luck
is doing in class, interesting early and the positive relationships we Your input and comments will offerings.
30 31“ All of the teachers
we have had at the
Child-to-staff-ratios 3. When your Child Care Financial Mulberry Bush have
We want parents and guardians to Assistance application is up been fantastic!”
know the goals that the Mulberry for review, please complete
Bush has for child-to-staff ratios. We the paperwork early. If your
strive to meet the state of Vermont’s certification expires you will be
requirements. We prefer to meet the responsible for payment.
child-to-teacher ratio required by 4. Our Strengthening Family Grant
both the National Association for the does not cover co-pays for the
Education of Young Children (NAEYC) School Age Program.
and the Step Ahead Recognition
Leaving the School
System (STARS).
If you wish to withdraw your child
Ratios (child:staff): from the School, a three-week
• 3:1 (children 8 weeks to 24 months) written notice is required. The finance
• 5:1 (children 2 year olds) office will credit your account for the
• 10:1 (children 3 years to 12 years) amount of your deposit if the 3 week
notice is given. During this period, we
Tuition and payments will prepare your child and the other across from the entrance as you Mulberry Bush’s services recognize the
Late payment guidelines children for the pending departure. come in to our School and inside Brattleboro Retreat’s need to ensure
(Please see the Mulberry Bush We ask parents and guardians to the preschool and pre-kindergarten patient privacy.
Independent School Financial Packet respect the fact that children have classrooms. Please feel free to leave
for information.) Payments should be Information of any kind about patients,
developed close relationships with notes, paperwork, or any other
made out to the Brattleboro Retreat past or present, is strictly confidential
staff and peers. Children strongly communications for the manager
and mailed to: and should never be confirmed or
benefit by having an opportunity to there. You may reach the manager
Brattleboro Retreat denied to anyone outside the Retreat.
say goodbye. by phone at 802-258-4350.
Attn: Cashier, P.O. Box 101, It’s very important to also remember
Brattleboro, VT, 05301 Car seats Contacting the that parents/guardians should never
If you need to leave your child’s car classroom teachers leave their cars running outside the
Families that use state Child Care seat at the School for someone else to Please use the staff phone sheet to School or leave their keys in their
Financial Assistance should be aware pick up your child at the end of the day, find the correct phone number and cars. Please do not let your car idle,
of the following: please leave the seat outside the child’s extension of your child’s classroom. and NEVER leave children in a vehicle
classroom. Also, all children’s names Please call the classroom directly without an adult.
1. If your child is absent and you do
not call the classroom to let them should be written on the back of the car when reporting a child’s absence.
We welcome you and your family to our
know that your child is sick, the seat. This helps to reduce confusion if The classroom staff list their email
School and look forward to both getting
state subsidy program may refuse any other children have the same style addresses in the newsletters. Please
to know each other and to help support
to pay. If this is the case, you will seat. We will also need your labelled feel free to contact the classroom
and serve your child’s emotional,
be billed for the tuition for the day child’s car seat if a field trip is planned. staff via email.
intellectual, physical, and social needs
or week. Contacting the Mulberry for years to come. Welcome!
A word about our facility
2. If you are late in picking up your
Bush manager Please note that because the Mulberry Mulberry Bush Independent School
child and you are charged a late
All parents and guardians should Bush is located on the grounds of Anna Marsh Lane, Brattleboro, VT 05301
pick-up fee, state funding cannot
know that there are mail baskets for a health care facility, it is essential (802) 258-4350
be used to cover those charges.
the manager located on the table that all parents and guardians using brattlebororetreat.org/mulberrybush
32 33Mulberry Bush
Independent School
Our Mission Statement
The Mulberry Bush Independent School’s mission is to create an intentional
learning community that uses innovative responsive classroom techniques;
an effective individualized academic foundation; and positive social and
emotional strategies to support the overall development of the whole child.
Anna Marsh Lane
Brattleboro, VT 05301
(802) 258-4350
brattlebororetreat.org
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