Parent Handbook 2021 Edition Service Locations
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Parent
Handbook
2021 Edition
Service Locations
97 James Mileham Drive 2 Stone Street 14 Garthowen Crescent
Kellyville NSW 2155 Glendenning NSW 2761 Castle Hill NSW 2154
(02) 9629 9685 (02) 9675 5978 (02) 8850 3365
admin@kinda-mindi.com.au glendenning@kinda-mindi.com.au castlehill@kinda-mindi.com.au
Hours 7:30am - 6:00pm Hours 7:00am - 6:00pm Hours 7:00am - 6:00pm
23-25 Acres Road 60 Arkley Ave 1/250 Paramatta Road
Kellyville NSW 2155 Claymore NSW 2559 Homebush NSW 2140
(02) 8814 6856 (02) 4666 5844 (02) 9746 2228
acresroad@kinda-mindi.com.au claymore@kinda-mindi.com.au homebush@kinda-mindi.com.au
Hours 7:00am - 6:00pm Hours 7:00am - 6:00pm Hours 7:00am - 6:00pmPrivacy Notice
Dear families,
Thank you for your interest in joining us at Kinda-Mindi Early Learning Centre and choosing us to be part of
your child’s early childhood education.
In order to provide care, we are required to collect a range of information, some of which is defined as
personal or sensitive information, under the Privacy Act 1988
Under the Act:
• 'Personal information' means any information or opinion about an identified, or reasonably
identifiable, individual.
• 'Sensitive personal information' means any information or opinion about an individual's racial or
ethnic origin, political opinion or association, religious beliefs or affiliations, philosophical beliefs,
sexual preferences or practices, trade or professional associations and memberships, union
membership, criminal record, health or genetic information and biometric information or templates.
If the relevant personal information requested in the attached forms is not provided, we will be unable to
assess your eligibility to access education and care at our service or your eligibility for any available childcare
assistance support or funding that may be, or become, available.
The information that you provide will only be disclosed to relevant National or State based agencies for
regulatory or compliance purposes and only if that disclosure is consistent with relevant laws the Privacy Act
1988.
All personal or sensitive information you entrust to us will be used, stored or disposed of, as necessary, in
accordance with the Privacy Principles.
By completing and submitting our waitlist and/or enrolment application and other associated forms, you
consent to the collection of all personal information, including sensitive personal information, contained in
those forms.
Our Privacy Policy includes information about how to access, and if necessary, correct your personal
information, a copy of the policy can be obtained from our services and is also available on our web site.
If you need to talk to anyone about your personal information or to make a complaint, please ask to speak to
the services privacy contact officer – the Operations Manager via the service email address.
Welcome to our service!
Regards,
Kinda-Mindi Early Learning Centres
Clare & Brett Parker
Approved Providers
2Kinda-Mindi acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander peoples of this nation.
We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which
our company is located and where we conduct our business.
We pay our respects to ancestors and Elders, past and present.
Kinda-Mindi is committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual
relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich
contribution to society.
Kinda-Mindi means “place of laughter.”
3GENERAL INFORMATION
OPERATIONAL INFORMATION
Kinda-Mindi Early Learning Centre is a privately-owned family business for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years. We are licensed to
operate Monday to Friday. The centre is open 50 weeks per year, closing for two weeks over the Christmas period.
CENTRE MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
Kinda-Mindi Early Learning Centre's are family-owned services.
The Approved Provider is Jacket Assets Pty Ltd which is owned by Brett & Clare Parker.
An Operations Manager is in place to over-see the management of all Kinda-Mindi services.
The Nominated Supervisor of the service reports to the Operations Manager.
All centre staff -including room leaders, assistants, trainees and cooks are to report to their service's Nominated Supervisor. All
families are to follow the management structure, starting with their child’s room staff, with questions and when reporting any
grievances or concerns.
FEES
It is our policy that all accounts are always to be two (2) weeks in advance. Families are issued with statements every fortnight
detailing past payments and new charges.
ENROLMENT
Upon accepting a position for your child at Kinda-Mindi Early Learning Centre, you will be required to provide the centre with
the following prior to your child's commencement:
Enrolment Form – All aspects of your child’s enrolment form MUST be completed in order for your enrolment to be accepted.
This will include all parental details, emergency contact details, specific needs and requirements of your child and
acknowledgement of certain centre policies and procedures.
Families are required to ensure we are notified of any changes relating to the contact details as soon as possible.
Immunisation Documentation – Under the Public Health Act 2010, an approved immunisation record MUST be provided in order
to enrol a child in an education and care service. An approved immunisation record is one of the following:
• An AIR Immunisation History Statement showing your child's immunisations are up to date. or;
• An AIR Immunisation Medical Exemption Form that has been certified by a GP if your child is unable to be immunised
with any vaccines due to medical reasons, or;
• An AIR Immunisation History Form where an immunisation provider has certified that your child is catching up on their
immunisations.
Other immunisation records such as the NSW Personal Health Record (or blue book), a GP letter or an overseas immunisation
record are not acceptable.
Bond – A bond of $100 for each day enrolled, per child must be paid to the centre to secure your enrolment.
For example:
• If you enrol one child for 2 days a week, the required bond will be $200.
• If you enrol 2 children, both for 2 days per week, the required bond would be $400.
This bond is fully refundable at the conclusion of your child’s time here with us. However, if required, this bond will be used for
any outstanding fees at the time of departure. Any remaining monies will then be refunded to you once final reconciliation has
been completed by Centrelink (approx. 2-3 weeks after departure).
Debitsuccess Direct Debit Form – This is for the payment of bonds and fees. Payments are debited on a fortnightly basis as per
our debit schedule – a copy of the debit schedule for the calendar year can be found as Appendix C. Direct debits that are from
credit cards will incur additional fees. See the ‘Payments’ section for more details.
Any Medical Management Plans – If your child has asthma, anaphylaxis, allergies or any other ongoing medical condition, we
require a medical management plan that has been developed by the child’s medical practitioners. The plan is to specify what
action we are to take in the event that signs and/or symptoms of the medical condition present whilst the child is at the centre.
These plans are to be updated every 12 months or when medical needs change. We will provide you with the appropriate
documentation that needs to be completed with your child’s medical practitioners. We will also need to prepare a risk
4minimisation plan for the service to implement. This plan includes expectations in regard to communication between all parties
in regard to the medical condition and any changes or events that may occur.
PAYMENTS
Fees payments are required to be made via the Debitsucccess Direct Debit system from either a bank account or credit card.
Payments are debited on a fortnightly basis, as per our debit schedule. Families receive a copy of the debit schedule annually.
If paying via bank account, there are no additional fees charged.
If paying via credit card, there are surcharges payable at the time the fees are debited:
• Visa/Mastercard – 2.35%
• AMEX – 4.40%
• NOTE: The surcharges are calculated by Debitsuccess, not the service, so the surcharge is not seen as a part of your
statement. It is your responsibility to ensure you have enough in your account to cover both the fee and surcharge
amount to prevent the payment from declining.
There is a dishonour fee of $14.95 for all declined payments. The dishonor fee will be debited by Debitsuccess, not the service,
within 7 days of the failed payment.
CHILD CARE SUBSIDY INFORMATION
Families are required to contact Centrelink prior to their child’s first day in care. Centrelink will assess your family's current
income and activity situation to determine your eligibility for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS). CCS is the main payment provided by
the Government to assist families with the cost of childcare. CCS is paid directly to services as a fee reduction. 5% of CCS
payments are withheld by the Government and reconciled at the end of the financial year to reduce the likelihood of over
payment.
If you have not applied for CCS, or if your CCS application is yet to be approved, you are liable to pay the full fee amount.
There are some cases where CCS will be backdated to the enrolment commencement date, however, this is not guaranteed.
CCS Percentage – A families CCS percentage is calculated according to the families combined adjustable taxable income. Income
details must be provided to Centrelink and kept up to date with any changes to ensure the correct subsidy percentage is applied.
CCS Approved Hours – These are the hours of subsidised care a family is entitled to over a fortnightly period. The hours are
determined by a 3-step activity test. Activity can include combined hours of work, study, training, recognised voluntary work or
other recognised activity.
Enrolment Confirmation – Once you have completed all relevant forms for enrolment, our service will send through details of
your child’s enrolment through to the Government. You will be able to see this information via the Centrelink app or through
your myGov account. You must confirm these details are correct in order for your CCS subsidy and percentage to be used at our
service as a fee reduction.
NOTE: Without confirmation of your child’s enrolment, you will be charged and liable for the payment of full fees until you
confirm your child’s enrolment.
CCS Absences – Each child in care who receives CCS is entitled to 42 days absence per financial year. This means that Centrelink
will still pay CCS for absences up to 42 days. If your child is absent beyond the 42nd day, Centrelink will not pay the CCS for that
day and you will have to pay the full fee. If your child is sick and you obtain a doctor’s certificate and present it to the centre, the
sick day will not count towards the 42 days.
Additional Child Care Subsidy – There is additional fee assistance available to support vulnerable or disadvantaged families and
children. This may be for grandparents who are the primary caregiver of their grandchildren, families experiencing temporary
financial hardship or low-income families transitioning from income support to work. Eligibility for these additional fee
reductions are determined by Centrelink. It is your responsibility to apply directly to Centrelink if you are eligible.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AND ABSENCES
Fees are NOT CHARGED for any public holidays which fall on a day that your child would normally attend.
However, fees must be paid for any days your child is absent from the centre including when they are sick or when you take
holidays within the year. Please note that you must advise the Nominated Supervisor if your child will be absent from the centre
for any reason. Families will not be charged during the two weeks that the centre is closed over the Christmas break.
Families must confirm their child’s absence through the QK Kiosk which automatically acknowledges their child was absent from
the centre on any particular day. If no confirmation is received, CCS cannot be claimed for this day.
CUSTODY & RESTRICTED ACCESS
It is the parent's responsibility to notify the Centre if there are any custodial or access orders in place relating to the enrolled
child. The Nominated Supervisor must sight the original orders and take a copy to be placed on file at the centre. The centre is
unable to prevent a parent from collecting the child from the centre without copies of the orders. All staff at the service are
required to read and sign the document, acknowledging they are aware of their legal obligations.
5WAITING LIST
When our centre is at full capacity, children requiring a new position, or a change of days will be put onto our centre’s waitlist.
Once a position becomes available, the position will be offered to the first child on the list that matches the days/room where
the availability is.
The Australian Government aims to support families who are most in need, as well as supporting the safety and wellbeing of
children at risk. We support these aims by prioritising children who are:
• At risk of serious abuse or neglect; and/or
• Of a sole parent who satisfies, or parents who both satisfy, the activity test through paid employment.
If a position is offered and accepted, the family is required to pay the appropriate bond immediately in order to secure the
position. If a position is offered and is not taken by the family, the family can choose to update their waitlist requirements or be
removed.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Upon arrival at the centre, all children must be signed in via the QK Kiosks located in the foyer. This automatically records the
time of arrival and person dropping the child to the service. Parents and emergency contacts will need to use their personal
mobile numbers to access the kiosk. After this has been completed, parents are to take their child to be handed over to a
member of staff. This is a great opportunity to let the staff know of any specific details which may affect the child’s day at the
centre. If a person other than a parent will be picking up the child, parents are to notify staff at drop off or as soon as possible.
Children must also be signed out of the centre when they leave through the QK Kiosk. Again, this records the time of departure
along with the person collecting the child from the service. If you have made arrangements for an alternative person to collect
your child, staff members will check the persons’ identification to ensure the correct person is picking up your child. No child will
be allowed to leave our Centre with another person if the parent has not notified the centre staff. If a person does enter the
centre to collect a child without prior parental consent given, staff will contact the parents to ensure permission has been
granted before letting the child leave the premises. If permission is not granted, the person will be asked to leave the premises
and police will be contacted, if required.
We encourage our families to ensure they arrive at the centre by 5.50pm when picking up their child/ren. This gives the parent
and staff member enough time to discuss the child's day and collect any belongings prior to the 6.00pm closing time.
LATE COLLECTION OF CHILDREN
We are not permitted to have children on the premises in our care before or after our licensed operating hours. This is for
licensing, Council and Insurance reasons. If a child is not collected from the centre by 6pm, families are subjected to a late fee of
$20.00 per 10 minutes or part thereof. This will be added to the families account and must be paid with the next statement. If
no contact can be made with the parents, emergency contacts will be called to collect the child. If neither the parents nor
emergency contacts can be contacted, the local police station will be notified, and a request made for further action to be taken.
NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL
It is centre policy that two (2) weeks' notice is to be given to the Nominated Supervisor if you wish to reduce days or withdraw
your child from care at the centre. This notice must be in writing – email is preferred. Families who do not give the Centre two
(2) weeks' notice will still be liable to pay for the two (2) weeks in lieu of notice. If you are receiving CCS and you do not bring
your child in for their final day/s at the centre, your CCS will not be paid for the absences and you will be liable for the full fee.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES
We have access to a variety of additional support services here at the centre.
Bi-Cultural Support - This is a service where we can request a bilingual worker to assist with children and families of which
English is not their main language.
Inclusion Support - This is a service to assist centres in planning and programming to ensure all children are included within our
everyday program and practices, especially children with additional needs. Funding can be applied for through this service to
increase the ratio of children to staff within the service, dependent on the level of need required.
Staff also work with other local speech pathologists and other childhood specialists where needed to ensure the highest quality
care is provided for all children.
STAFF
Kinda-Mindi has a team of highly qualified educators with extensive experience in the early childhood field and specialised skills
regarding early childhood care and education. Qualification details of all our educators are located in the foyer of the centre,
along with photos. Kinda-Mindi adheres to the child: staff ratios as required by the Education and Care Services National
Regulations.
The current Educator: Child ratios requirements are as follows:
60-2 years of age: 1 educator for every 4 children.
2-3 years of age: 1 educator for every 5 children.
3-6 years of age: 1 educator for every 10 children.
Educators at the centre have a current First Aid qualification and training specifically for asthma and anaphylaxis emergencies.
Educators also have regular training in relation to Child Protection and have undergone a "Working with Children Check". Our
educators are involved in ongoing training through our monthly staff meetings and various other in-services and training courses
throughout the year as well as being encouraged to further their early childhood qualifications.
All staff at Kinda-Mindi are classed as "Mandatory Reporters". This means we are required, by law, to report to Community
Services if we have reasonable grounds to suspect that a child, or a class of children, is at risk of significant harm from abuse or
neglect. The centre's full policies in relation to child protection including mandatory reporting are available in the Policy Manual
in the foyer and on our website.
INDIVIDUAL ROOM ROUTINES
Each room within the centre has a routine specific to the needs of the children within the group. This is displayed on each
individual room’s Parent Information Wall. We aim to provide a home and family environment and our routines reflect this. All
routines within the centre are flexible, especially according to weather and children's preferences. Throughout the day, children
are given the opportunities to engage with many areas of learning and development, in a play environment.
LOCKERS
Lockers are available each day for each child for the storage of their bag and belongings. It is the family's responsibility to ensure
that your child's locker is emptied at the end of each day. The lockers are cleaned regularly by centre staff.
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
Parents are welcome to visit and spend time at the centre at any time! In fact, we strongly suggest that you be involved in the
centre's curriculum planning by sharing skills and experience in areas like music, craft, cooking, storytelling and culture. If you
have any hobbies or talents, we would love for you to share them with both staff AND the children. Family's contributions of
ideas, experiences and skills are highly valued here at Kinda-Mindi. Families can provide details on ways they are willing to assist
the centre and be involved in the curriculum in the enrolment form or at any time by speaking to a staff member.
INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES
We have many factsheets and publications at the centre that discuss appropriate behaviour management and communication
techniques, childhood nutrition, safe sleeping, safety around the home, dental and general health, just to name a few! Families
can access most of this information in the foyer and parent library. We are more than happy to provide parents with any further
information requested. Additionally, we have policies and service forms available online through the website.
COMMUNICATION
We use a variety of means to communicate between families, however our main sources of communication are Kinderloop &
Email. We use Kinderloop to send families information about centre events, reminders and newsletter items. Each room also
uses Kinderloop for daily group and individual reflections. Fortnightly statements are also emailed.
WHAT TO BRING
0-2 years
- Breast milk and/or formula (if applicable) – We support families who are breastfeeding their babies and staff are trained in
the storage of breastmilk and preparation of formula. More information regarding the storage and transportation of breast
milk to and from the centre is available in the parent information library.
- 2 changes of clothing that are weather appropriate – clearly labeled with your child’s name.
- A security item for rest time (if applicable) – clearly labelled with your child’s name.
- Children’s bottles (water and milk) – clearly labelled with your child’s name.
2-5 years
- 2 changes of clothing that are weather appropriate – clearly labelled with your child’s name.
- Drink bottle for water – clearly labelled with your child’s name.
- A security item for rest time (if applicable) – clearly labelled with your child’s name.
Please note that if your child is toilet training, you will need to provide several changes of clothing, including shoes and socks in
case of accidents.
7POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
CURRICULUM PLANNING
Our aim is to provide a high-quality curriculum environment that fosters each individual child's interests and development. We
use a variety of tools in order to achieve this including reflections, curriculum plans and individual child assessments in order to
document and follow the children's interests through a combination of child, family, educator and community participation. We
provide consistent learning areas and materials for children which are available each and every day they attend which enables
children to choose their own resources and revisit past experiences.
Reflections are completed in each room as an evaluation of significant experiences and to document learning outcomes we have
achieved. Reflections are completed as either group or individual reflections and are communicated to families via Kinderloop so
they too can share in what their child has achieved and where we will plan to go from here.
We hold parent-teacher interviews twice a year for children in the 2-5 rooms. Families are also welcome to arrange another
time with their child's educator if they would like to discuss their child's progress at any other time during the year.
SCHOOL READINESS
At Kinda-Mindi, we believe ‘School Readiness’ starts at the age of 0. We have an effective school readiness curriculum which
commences when your child starts at the centre. Our curriculum involves the active engagement of the children, providing
nurturing and emotionally supportive relationships with the early childhood educators. It integrates child care and education, is
responsive to cultural diversity, and fosters social, emotional skills whilst promoting early literacy and numeracy skills.
We, as educators, believe that the following areas are critical for determining a child's readiness for school:
• Language Skills,
• Wellbeing,
• Motor Coordination and Skills,
• Concentration Skills,
• Emotional and Social Competence, and
• Independence.
At Kinda-Mindi, we foster “The Curious Child”. Curiosity and a love of learning is a character strength that is related to optimal
well-being. Children who are curious and who love learning new things are usually happier and more confident.
The preschool children participate in various skill-building experiences such as a library system and a school skills month where
they have the opportunity to become familiar with and develop independence skills required when they attend Kindergarten.
CLOTHING
Parents are advised to send their children to the Centre in comfortable, inexpensive clothing. Children need to be able to move
around freely during their play periods. Children at Kinda-Mindi have too much fun! They enjoy (and need) messy play including
paint, clay, sand, water and mud. While paints, food and liquids will come out in the wash, accidents do happen, so it is best to
send children along in their 'less-than-good clothes'.
Please supply at least 2 changes of clothing as the centre only has a limited supply of spare clothes. Parents will be contacted to
bring clothes for their child if there are no changes available. Please ensure your child's clothing is labeled and check labeling
regularly.
We do recommend that parents of children who are toilet training supply at least 3-4 changes of clothes. We also ask that your
child is dressed in clothes which are easy to remove in order to go to the toilet (no overalls, belts or button pants) otherwise it
can frustrate the children in not being able to feel a sense of achievement about toileting independently. No clothing with a
drawstring as this presents a choking risk.
Clothing must also be weather appropriate. It is a good idea to pack changes of clothes for different weather conditions. See
"Sun Protection" section for more information regarding appropriate summer clothing for children. If a child is not dressed
appropriately, parents will be asked to redress the child before leaving the centre.
Appropriate footwear for children whilst at the centre includes sandals, shoes and sneakers. Thongs are not included as
appropriate footwear for children at the centre as it poses many safety risks for children when running, climbing and
participating in everyday programmed experiences. Families who bring their children to the centre in thongs will be asked to
provide an alternative form of footwear prior to their child being able to participate, especially in the outdoor environment.
SUN PROTECTION POLICY
Kinda-Mindi provides sunscreen and hats for all children at the centre. Sunscreen is applied to all children 20 minutes prior to
each time they go outside. We provide a legionnaires hat which protects the ears and necks of all children as well as the face.
8Parents must dress their child in appropriate summer clothing. This must include tops with sleeves as singlet tops are against
Centre Policy. If a child does not have an appropriate top on, parents will be asked to change this before leaving the child under
the care and supervision of the staff or the child will not be able to engage in outdoor play.
BEHAVIOUR GUIDANCE
Kinda-Mindi has a positive approach to behaviour guidance at the centre. All staff encourage the confidence and individuality of
children through positive techniques and guidance. Staff encourage children to resolve conflict in non-violent ways. Negotiating
skills are promoted rather than staff fixing the problem, where appropriate. Conflict resolution allows children to become
confident learners and responsible, caring human beings. It also allows for the children to use problem solving and to feel
confident in being able to put conflict resolution skills into practice. No staff will EVER administer physical or corporal
punishment. Staff strategies are always consistent and fair with every child.
PERSONAL BELONGINGS
Please ensure all of your child's belongings (such as dummies, clothes, bottles etc) are clearly labeled. Items without labels will
be placed in the 'Lost Property' baskets. It is your responsibility to check for lost property regularly. We discourage children from
bringing toys into the centre unless they are genuine security items. Security items are acceptable at the centre for those
children who are experiencing separation anxiety. Any possessions that are bought into the centre from the home are at
parents’ own risk with regards to breakage or loss.
BIRTHDAYS
Birthdays are a special event in every child's life. We encourage birthday celebrations at the centre! You are more than welcome
to bring cake for your child's birthday. Cupcakes, donuts or any other food that is in individual portions is preferred. Please check
with your teacher prior to the day in regard to special dietary requirements in the centre. A full list of ingredients must be
provided to assist in the management of dietary requirements of children in the service. Any food product that contains nuts or
nut products are NOT permitted to be at the centre due to potential anaphylactic reactions.
MANAGEMENT OF MEDICAL CONDITIONS
Our centre has strict policies and procedures relating to enrolled children with medical conditions.
If your child has asthma, anaphylaxis, allergies or any other ongoing medical condition, we require a medical management plan
that has been developed by the child’s medical practitioners. The plan is to specify what action we are to take in the event that
signs and/or symptoms of the medical condition are present whilst the child is at the centre. We require any medical
management plans at the time of enrolment, prior to commencement. These plans are to be updated every 12 months or when
medical needs change.
If your child requires the administration of ongoing medication in tablet form, we require families to bring the medication to the
centre in blister packs that have been put together by the chemist. We have long term medication forms for children who
require regular, ongoing medications as part of their medical condition. Please ask if you require this form for your child. Refer
to the MEDICATION section more details on administration.
MEDICATION
Staff are able to administer PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE ONLY to children who are recovering from illness. A medication form must
be filled out and signed by the parent prior to any medication being administered at the centre. The medicine must be
prescribed to the child, not another person. Medication must be in its original packaging and in date. The medication must be
given to a staff member on arrival at the centre as any medication in the centre must be stored in a lockable container, out of
reach of children. Please DO NOT leave any type of medication in your child's bag. Two staff members will complete the
medication form when the medication has to be administered.
If your child requires non-prescription medication, it will only be administered when there is a letter from the child's doctor
detailing the medication, the dosage, the frequency of administration, how long the child is to take the non-prescription
medication and the reason for administering the medication.
If your child becomes ill and requires the administration of prescription or non-prescription medication, they are not permitted
to attend the centre for a minimum of 1 full day after commencing any medications.
9INJURY, ILLNESS OR TRAUMA
In the event that a child has been injured or becomes ill whilst at the centre, staff will contact families to discuss any further
action, if required. As a matter of importance, parents must ensure that their emergency contacts details are up to date. An
accident or illness report will be completed, outlining specific details including witnesses and any first aid administered. These
forms must be signed by staff, the Nominated Supervisor and parents and a copy will be offered to the parents. Please note that
if your child is ill at the centre, they will be required to be picked up from the centre as soon as possible to reduce the risk of
cross infection.
If your child falls ill at the centre, they are not permitted to attend the centre for a minimum of 1 day after being sent home
from the centre. This gives the child an opportunity to rest and recover as well as being monitored for any side effects or further
symptoms of illness.
If a serious injury, illness or trauma that requires follow up treatment occurs at the centre, we are obligated to notify the
Department of Education and Communities.
HEALTH
Kinda-Mindi provides a healthy, safe environment for children to grow and develop through the implementation of policies
regarding illnesses and medications. Children with contagious illnesses are to be kept away from the centre and a clearance
certificate from a doctor is required prior to the child returning to the centre. This is to ensure that the child is fit to return to the
centre and that no other children are at risk of infection. No child will be permitted into the centre with obvious signs and
symptoms of any contagious infection or illness. Our "Exclusion Policy" details the incubation periods, signs and symptoms and
exclusion periods of such diseases. This policy is located in Appendix B of the Handbook.
In the case of an immunisable disease outbreak, any child that is not immunised must not attend the centre.
REST & SLEEP
We understand that children have individual needs in relation to sleep and rest time. Families are to provide information
regarding their child's routine as part of our enrolment form. It is very important that this information is completed so that staff
can accommodate for all children, where possible.
The 0-2 year olds room has a separate sleeping area with cots for babies and the older children sleep or rest in their rooms on
low children's beds. The centre provides linen for all children which is washed on a weekly basis. Linen is not shared between
children at the centre. Children can bring a comfort toy or blanket to rest with. Please feel free to discuss your child's needs
further with their room teachers.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
The centre has a specific grievance process to follow when a complaint is made by a parent. There are forms located in the foyer
for families to complete in order to detail the complaint. Complaints are to be made to the Nominated Supervisor of the centre.
If the complaint is relating to an individual, the Nominated Supervisor will arrange for a meeting between both parties.
The centre is obligated to report specific grievances to the Department of Education and Communities within 24 hours of the
grievance being made. All action taken related to the grievance will also be reported to the Department of Education and
Communities as soon as practically possible.
If a parent feels that the issue has not been resolved or the issue is involving the Nominated Supervisor, they are encouraged to
contact the Operations Manager and/or Approved Provider, Clare and Brett Parker on 0412 717 041. If after contacting the
Approved Provider, families feel the issue is still not resolved, governing authorities such as the Department of Education and
Communities or the NSW Ombudsman may be contacted. A "Parent Grievance Policy" is located in the Policy Manual in the
foyer and on our website.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES DRILLS
Throughout the year, the centre conducts regular emergency procedures drills to ensure that all staff and children are aware of
what to do if there is an emergency situation at the centre. These drills are carried out in a well-organised and orderly manner.
Emergency evacuation procedures are located at every emergency exit for clear reference. Emergency Procedure Reference
Manuals are also located in each and every room.
A copy of the centre's "Emergency Procedures Policy" is attached as Appendix C to this handbook.
10ORIENTATION PROCESS
Each family and child's needs during the orientation process are different. Some children will be able to walk into the centre on
day 1 and it may seem they had always been here but for others, it is essential that they spend some short periods of time,
visiting the centre and getting to know the staff and other children who attend. For this reason, we have a mandatory minimum
Orientation period prior to commencing of at least one hour.
When a child first starts at the centre, parents may notice a change in their behaviour. This is normal. Changes that may occur
include regression in toileting, becoming seemingly more dependent or a change in eating and sleeping patterns. If you notice a
change in your child's behaviour and you are concerned, please discuss this with your child's room teachers.
Some children settle into day care more easily than others do. Staff are sensitive and aware of the anxieties and fears children
have about starting childcare. We also understand how distressing it can be for you to leave your child especially if they are
upset. Be assured that if the staff are unable to settle your child, we will ring you. Remember the settling period may take some
children longer than others. Feel free to discuss any problems about your child’s settling period with staff.
TRANSITION PROCESS
When a child is of appropriate age and development to move into the next room in the centre, we have a transition process
which we follow to try and ensure a smooth transition for both the child and the family.
A minimum of 2 weeks prior to the anticipated move date, the two rooms involved in the transition will begin the process. It
involves the child spending short amounts of time with the new room and teachers and eventually spending whole days with
them. The new room teachers will arrange a time to meet with the parents and go through the new routine, programming and
procedures as we recognise that it is not only the child that will go through a change, it is also the family. This is a great time for
families to bring up any issues or concerns they have regarding the transition process and how their child is feeling. Parents are
encouraged to keep in regular contact with all teachers involved during the transition.
11Important Contacts and Help Services for Families
Parentline 1300 130 052
Parentline is a telephone counseling, information and referral service for
parents and carers of children aged 0-18 years who live in NSW. Services
include the Early Childhood Intervention Infoline since early 2011.
Mon-Fri: 9am – 9pm
Sat-Sun: 4pm – 9pm
Tresillian Parents Helpline 1800 637 357
(02) 9787 0855 (Sydney Metro)
You can speak to one of Tresillian's qualified Child and Family Health Nurses
on any aspect of parenting children aged up to 5 years
Australian Breastfeeding 1800 686 268
Association www.breastfeeding.asn.au
The Australian Breastfeeding Association website has an extensive range of
Breastfeeding Hotline FREE breastfeeding literature.
Alcohol & Drug Information Services 1800 422 599
(ADIS) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
You can call ADIS anytime of day or week for support, info, advice, crisis
counseling and referral to services in NSW
Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
www.kidshelp.com.au
This service encourages children aged 5-25 years to develop better
relationships with peers or family and to get help through problems.
Lifeline 13 11 14
Lifeline is a National charity providing all Australian's experiencing a personal
crisis support and suicide prevention services
Medicare 13 20 11
9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday
Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Playgroup Australia 1800 171 882
(02) 9684 5273
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
www.beyondblue.org.au
Web Chat is also available from 4pm – 10pm
The national depression and anxiety initiative
Immunise Australia www.immunise.health.gov.au
Information about immunisation
Centrelink 13 61 50
For information regarding Family Tax Benefit, Child Care Subsidy, Parenting
Payments, Double Orphan Pensions, Baby Bonus, Paid Parental Leave,
Maternity Immunisation Allowance
NSW Department of Health (02) 9391 9000
www.health.nsw.gov.au
For important health messages and publications.
Raising Children Network www.raisingchildren.net.au
The Australian parenting website with information for parents regarding
children's behaviour, communication, development, nutrition, safety and sleep
for children. It also has information for parents about their own wellbeing.
Australian Childhood Education and 1300 422 327
Care Quality Authority www.acecqa.gov.au
(ACECQA) ACECQA guides the implementation of the National Quality Framework for
early childhood education and care services nationally and ensures
consistency in delivery
Department of Education and 1800 619 113
Communities www.dec.nsw.gov.au
Early Childhood Education and Care ececd@det.nsw.gov.au
Directorate The ECECD regulates the operation of early childhood education and care
services for children from birth to school age
12Appendix A – Immunisation Schedule
13Appendix B - Illness Policy
Aim
For the staff and families to adhere to and follow the appropriate procedures for the management of a sick child
within the Service. To prevent the spread of illness and infection throughout the centre. To promote a healthy
centre environment.
When to use this policy
1. When a child falls sick at the centre.
2. When a family enrols at the centre.
3. When contagious diseases are present within the Centre.
Specific Process Steps
A child who has fallen ill at the Centre
• Staff are to be aware of symptoms of illness throughout the day, such as:
o High Fever (refer to specific information about fevers below),
o Drowsiness,
o Lethargy and decreased activity,
o Breathing difficulty,
o Poor circulation,
o Poor feeding,
o Poor urine output,
o Red or Purple rash,
o A stiff neck or sensitivity to light,
o Pain.
• Separate the ill child from others and provide comfort to the child in a comfortable, quiet area.
• Initiate documentation for the illness on the services ‘Illness Record’.
• Take the child’s temperature, recording it as well as the symptoms on the service’s ‘Illness Record’.
• Reassure the child.
• Contact parents informing them of their child’s signs and symptoms of illness and suggest they will need
to pick their child up if appropriate, or if staff suspect the illness is contagious.
• Staff are to wash their hands before re-joining the group of children.
• Continue to assess and record child’s condition a minimum of every 10 minutes until the child is
collected from the service. There should be details of the ongoing assessment recorded on the ‘Illness
Record’ until the child leaves the service.
• The time the child has left the service should also be noted on the ‘Illness Record’.
• If a child is needing to sleep after falling ill at the service, a staff member must stay with the child at all
times. This may mean moving a bed/cot into a different area of the service so the child can be
monitored until collected. Under no circumstance is the child to be left alone for any period of time
whilst sleeping.
• If parent or other emergency contacts are unable to pick the child up immediately and the child has a
high temperature, obtain permission from the parents for staff to administer paracetamol.
• The Nominated Supervisor is required to record child’s illness on the “Illness Log”. This assists in
evaluating the Centre’s infection control strategies and may assist public health workers if the illness is
an outbreak.
• The child or staff member is unable to return to the Centre for the minimum exclusion period which is 1
full day, regardless of whether the child has been administered any form of prescription or non-
prescription medications. For example, if a child falls ill on a Monday, they are not permitted to attend
the following day and can return on Wednesday, if they are no longer showing signs and symptoms of
illness.
• When completing the service’s ‘Illness Record’, staff will specify the relative exclusion period, as per our
policy, on the form to prevent confusion relating to when a child can return to the service.
14• Staff or children are not to attend prior to the date of a medical certificate.
• As our first priority is the health and safety of all children at the service, the Nominated Supervisor or
Responsible Person placed in day-to-day charge may refuse a child’s attendance at the centre if the child
arrives at the service within the minimum exclusion period and/or they believe that the child is still not
well enough to participate in the day, even if a medical certificate has been provided by a medical
practitioner. This is out of concern and consideration for the child as well as an infection control strategy
to protect all others at the service.
Fevers
• The normal temperature for a child is up to 38oC.
• If a child seems well and is happy, there is no need to treat a fever.
• If a child under 3 months of age has a temperature of over 38oC, staff are to contact the parents
immediately and request they take their child to a doctor as soon as practically possible.
• If a child has a fever and is unhappy, treatment is required. Staff are to give the child water, remove any
unnecessary clothing and contact the families to notify them. Panadol may be administered at this time
in accordance with our “Administration of Medication Policy” and our exclusion period of 1 full day will
apply.
• If any further signs, symptoms or diagnosis arises, staff and families are to refer to the ‘Exclusion’
section for further instructions on minimum exclusion periods.
• NOTE – our exclusion requirement of 1 full day is enforced whether or not a child has been administered
any form of medication – prescription or non-prescription.
Runny Noses
• When germs that cause colds (cold viruses) first infect the nose and sinuses, the nose makes clear
mucus. This helps wash the germs from the nose and sinuses. After two or three days, the body’s
immune cells fight back, changing the mucus to a white or yellow colour. As the bacteria that live in the
nose grow back, they may also be found in the mucus, which changes to a greenish colour. This is
normal and does not mean the child needs antibiotics or to be excluded from the service.
• There is no infectious period for a runny nose and therefore, children do not need to be excluded from
the centre if they are happy and otherwise well.
• If the child with the runny nose is unhappy and shows other signs and symptoms, they will be excluded
from the centre until they are well and able to participate in the normal day-to-day activities.
Vomiting and/or Diarrhoea
• Our centre has a strict procedure in relation to a child that vomits or has a case of diarrhoea at the
centre. It is common for either to occur when the child’s body is trying to eliminate an illness, infection
or an ingested item that the body does not accept.
• If a child has one vomit or has one case of diarrhoea whilst at the centre, the parents will be contacted
as soon as the child has been comforted, cleaned and is given a quiet place to rest away from the other
children at the centre, whilst remaining to be adequately supervised.
• The parents must make arrangements for their child to be collected from the centre as soon as
practically possible. This is due to the highly contagious nature of the illnesses and also the need for the
child to be closely monitored as there is a high risk of dehydration.
• Parents must ensure that their child does not return to the centre until 1 full day after their last vomit or
case of diarrhoea. The child must also be eating and drinking enough to sustain their health throughout
the day.
Outbreak – Vomiting and/or Diarrhoea
• According to NSW Health, an outbreak is defined as two or more people who have sudden onset of
vomiting or diarrhoea at the same time, in the same institution.
• In the event that two or more children or staff members fall ill with vomiting or diarrhoea within a 2-day
period, the service will increase preventative health measures to the outbreak level.
• In the event of an outbreak, the exclusion period will increase to 2 full days of exclusion after the
symptoms have ceased.
15• Children and/or staff members that fall ill at the service will be excluded from the rest of the group until
they leave the service to reduce the risk of the illness being spread further.
• The Nominated Supervisor is responsible for placing outbreak signage on the front door to the service
and all the room entry doors to raise awareness of the potential presence of the illness.
• Any pre-arranged visitors to the service will be contacted and visits postponed to a later time.
• Staff are responsible for thoroughly cleaning their environments and resources on a daily basis with the
neutral detergent, followed by the sanitiser.
• Any equipment and/or items that cannot be cleaned between use are to be excluded or limited to
rooms where the illness is not present. E.g. playdough, soft toys.
• Water play and sand pit play should be closed off during an outbreak.
• The Nominated Supervisor must contact the local public health unit to inform them of the outbreak and
to obtain the electronic register form to complete. This must be sent through to the Public Health Unit
within 24 hours of contacting the health unit and then again, once it has been 3 days after the last
symptoms from a child or staff member.
• Families are encouraged to see their local doctor and request a stool sample to identify the cause of the
outbreak.
Child Attendance After Receiving Medications
• A child must not return to the centre for a minimum of 1 full day after the need to be administered with
any prescription or non-prescription medications, including paracetamol. This gives the child a chance to
rest and recover and also to watch for any side effects of medications. E.g. If a child goes to the doctors
on a Monday and requires medication, they are not to attend the centre until the Wednesday.
• If a child is administered paracetamol whilst at the centre, they must not to return to the centre for a
minimum of 1 full day. This is also to give the child a chance to rest and recover and be monitored for
any other signs of illness.
• By following these procedures, we hope to reduce the outbreaks of illness throughout the centre by
ensuring children are staying at home during a possible infectious period.
• If medications need to be administered for any reason other than illness, the centre requires a letter
from a medical practitioner stating the reason for the medication and that the child can return to the
centre.
Notification Procedure
When the centre has been notified that a staff member or child is currently ill with an infectious disease, this
procedure is to be followed:
1. The Nominated Supervisor is to post on Kinderloop to families informing them that there has been a
confirmed case of illness.
2. The post is to contain a copy of the information from the NHMRC Publication "Staying Healthy in Childcare" or
other recognised health authority in relation to the illness.
3. Details from the post and the health information is to be displayed for a minimum of 1 week in a prominent
location for families and visitors to read.
Exclusion
The following are recommended minimum exclusion periods based on the risk of infection from the NSW Health
publication – ‘Staying Healthy: Preventing infectious diseases in early childhood education and care services’ (5
ed.).
A child or staff member may need to stay at home longer than the exclusion period to recover from an illness.
IMPORTANT NOTE – The services minimum requirement of ‘1 full day’ of exclusion will override any of the
following exclusion periods of less than 1 full day.
16We require a clearance certificate from a medical practitioner for each of
the highlighted illnesses.
EXCLUSION OF
CONDITION EXCLUSION OF CASE
CONTACTS
Campylobacter Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 Not excluded
infection hours
CMV (Cytomegalovirus Not excluded Not excluded
infection)
Cryptosporidium Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 Not excluded
infection hours
Candidiasis (thrush) Not excluded Not excluded
Conjunctivitis Excluded until discharge from the eye has stopped unless a Not excluded
doctor has diagnosed a non-infectious conjunctivitis
Diarrhoea Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel movement for Not excluded
24 hours
Fungal infections of Exclude until the day after starting appropriate antifungal Not excluded
the skin or nails (e.g. treatment
ringworm, tinea)
Giardiasis Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 Not excluded
hours
Glandular Fever Not excluded Not excluded
(Mononucleosis,
Epstein-Barr virus
[EBV] infection)
Haemophilus Exclude until the person has received appropriate antibiotic Not excluded
influenzae type b (Hib) treatment for at least 4 days
Head lice (Pediculosis) Not excluded if effective treatment begins before the next day Not excluded
at the education and care service.
The child does not need to be sent home immediately if lice
are detected.
Hepatitis A Exclude until a medical certificate of recovery is received, but Not excluded
not before 7 days after the onset of jaundice Contact a public health
unit for specialist advice
about vaccinating or
treating children in the
same room or group
Hepatitis B Not excluded Not excluded
Hepatitis C Not excluded Not excluded
Hand, foot and mouth Exclude until all the blisters have dried Not excluded
disease
Herpes Simplex (cold Not excluded if the person can maintain hygiene practices to Not excluded
sores, fever blisters) minimize the risk of transmission.
If the person cannot comply with these practices (e.g they are
too young), they should be excluded until the sores are dry.
Sores should be covered with a dressing, where possible
Human parvovirus B19 Not excluded Not excluded
(fifth disease,
erythema infectiosum,
slapped cheek
syndrome)
17Human Not excluded Not excluded
Immunodeficiency If the person is severely immune compromised, they will be
Virus (HIV) vulnerable to other people's illnesses
Hydatid disease Not excluded Not excluded
Impetigo Exclude until appropriate antibiotic treatment has started Not excluded
Any sores on exposed skin should be covered with a water
tight dressing
Influenza and Exclude until person is well Not excluded
influenza-like illnesses
Listeriosis Not excluded Not excluded
Meningitis (viral) Exclude until person is well Not excluded
Meningococcal Exclude until appropriate antibiotic treatment has been Not excluded
infection completed Contact a public health
unit for specialist advice
about antibiotics and/or
vaccination for people
who were in the same
room as the case
Measles Exclude for 4 days after the onset of the rash Immunised and immune
contacts are not
excluded
Non-immunised
contacts, contact a
public health unit for
specialist advice
All
immunocompromised
children should be
excluded until 14 days
after the appearance of
rash in the last case
Molluscum Not excluded Not excluded
contagiosum
Mumps Exclude for 9 days or until swelling goes down (whichever is Not excluded
sooner)
Norovirus Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel movement or Not excluded
vomiting for 48 hours
Pertussis (whooping Exclude until 5 days after starting appropriate antibiotic Contact a public health
cough) treatment, or for 21 days from the onset of coughing unit for specialist advice
about excluding no-
vaccinated contacts, or
antibiotics
Pneumococcal disease Exclude until person is well Not excluded
Rotavirus infection Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion or Not excluded
vomiting for 24 hours
Rubella (German Exclude until the person has fully recovered or for at least 4 Not excluded
measles days after the onset of the rash
Roseola Not excluded Not excluded
Ross River virus Not excluded Not excluded
Salmonellosis Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 Not excluded
hours
18Scabies Exclude until the day after starting appropriate treatment Not excluded
Shingellosis Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 Not excluded
hours
Streptococcal sore Exclude until the person has received antibiotic treatment for Not excluded
throat (including at least 24 hours and feels well
scarlet fever)
Toxoplasmosis Not excluded Not excluded
Tuberculosis (TB) Exclude until medical certificate is produced from the Not excluded
appropriate health authority Contact a public health
unit for specialist advice
about screenin,
antibiotics or specialist
TB clinics
Varicella (chickenpox) Exclude until all blisters have dried-This is usually at least 5 Any child with an
days after the rash first appeared in unimmunised children immune deficiency (for
and less in immunised children. example, leukaemia) or
receiving chemotherapy
should be excluded for
their own protection as
they are at high risk of
developing severe
disease. Otherwise, not
excluded
Viral gastroenteritis Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 Not excluded
(viral diarrhoea) hours
Worms Exclude if loose bowel motions are occurring Not excluded
Exclusion is not necessary if treatment has occurred
Vaccine Preventable Diseases
A Child or staff member with any known or suspected vaccine preventable disease such as:
o Diphtheria
o Measles
o Mumps
o Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
o Poliomyelitis
o Haemophilus Influenza Type B (HiB)
o Meningococcal
o Rubella (German Measles)
o Tetanus
Is to be excluded and the Public Health Unit notified.
Local Public Health Unit NSW Department of Health
Western Sydney Public Health Unit 73 Miller Street
North Parramatta North Sydney
(02) 9840 3603 (02) 9391 9000
• Seek advice from your Public Health Unit for meningitis, food poisoning, gastroenteritis, streptococcal
infection, tuberculosis, hepatitis A.
• The child or staff member is not to return until the recommended exclusion time has been reached or a
minimum of 1 full day, whichever is longer. A doctor’s certificate stating the infection is resolved or no
longer contagious may be requested by the Nominated Supervisor before allowing child or staff member
to return.
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