PARENT HANDBOOK JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Instagram: myjamcenter 1200 East Houston Street Garrett, Indiana 46738 - Judy A. Morrill ...
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PARENT HANDBOOK
Revised February 2020
JAM Early Education
1200 East Houston Street
Garrett, Indiana 46738
(260) 357-1917
www.myjamcenter.org
Facebook: JAM Early Education
Instagram: myjamcenter
Parent HandbookTable of Contents
Welcome 2
Vision 2
Philosophy 2
Classrooms 3
Schedules and Tuition 6
Classroom Etiquette 10
Arrival and Departure 13
Health and Safety Issues 14
Additional Policies 16
Drills and Evacuations 17
Special Events 18
1
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020Welcome
We are pleased that you have chosen JAM Early Education (JAMEE). We believe parents and caregivers are
their children's first and most influential teachers. Our goal is to work together in caring for children. This
handbook is given to all parents at the time of enrollment and anytime updates are made. It is designed to
acquaint you with our policies and procedures and to provide you with a glimpse of our approach to early
education. In addition to our policies, we abide by State Voluntary Certification Program (VCP) standards,
Registered Ministry guidelines, and Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) guidelines. Any questions parents may
have regarding this handbook are to be referred to the Lead Teacher, JAMEE Director, or Executive Director.
JAM Early Education is a day school serving children from 6 weeks of age to 5 years old. We provide full time
care, open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., that includes developmentally responsive experiences that support the growth of
the whole child.
Vision
JAMEE is an early education program that strives to be:
A place of wonder and joy.
A place that honors children, their thoughts, and ideas by providing a nurturing
environment that stimulates learning, entices curiosity, and encourages
expression through the hundred languages. The individual child is given space
and the needed support to become independent thinkers of their own pace.
A place that partners with families and community by providing opportunities to
learn and work together as well as sharing the children’s experiences with one
another.
A place that recognizes educators as thinkers, researchers, and leaders forging
the way to provide the best education and care for young learners.
Philosophy
Our school is guided by the principles of child development and the philosophy of Reggio Emilia. One principle
we uphold is that children learn through the construction of their own knowledge which supports all domains
of development. Another guiding principle of the Reggio Emilia philosophy we abide by is that children have
“rights.” At JAM Early Education we put special focus on the “right to nature” and the “right to create.” We
are continually improving our practices through the study and application of this philosophy.
JAM Early Education believes children have the right to a safe, nurturing, and choice-filled environment. We
believe children succeed and learn best when allowed independence, exploration of interests, and expression
of their individuality. We promote respect, kindness, beauty, love, order, and a positive environment. We
value the religious, economic, cultural, and education diversity of children and families, and we will work with
you to incorporate these aspects into your child’s day.
2
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020JAM Early Education provides hands-on activities and real-life experiences. Through these opportunities
children find meaning in the work they do thus increasing their depth of learning. We introduce children to
ideas starting with the simplest form of an idea (ex. putting on their shoes) and moving into more complexity
(ex. tying their own shoes). We believe each child has the capacity for growth and development and is guided
to develop in all areas: emotional, social, creative, physical, spiritual, and intellectual. We offer opportunities
that are right for their current developmental needs. We strive to nurture the lifelong enthusiasm for learning
within each child.
Classrooms
All of the classrooms at JAMEE are focused on meeting the developmental needs of young children. We know
children have sensitive periods of development. We define these as special times in a child’s life where the
child becomes more aware and diligently seeks out certain areas of learning and growth. Each classroom is set
up to meet these sensitive periods as well as the individual interests and abilities of each young child.
Infant – 6 weeks to 15 months
During the first year of a child’s life, there are three prominent developmental needs: attachment, movement,
and exploring the world using one’s senses.
Children learn to trust by forming strong attachments with their caregivers. We support this need by providing
primary caregivers. Primary caregivers are the specific teachers assigned to individual children for planning and
meeting the needs of the assigned child. Children also build trust through having consistency and continuity in
routine. We work closely with parents to understand and follow a consistent routine including individualized
feeding and napping times.
Movement is at the core of all learning. It is amazing how much growth occurs in the first year of an infant’s life
due to the ability for moving that they acquire. We believe children learn best how to move by having multiple
opportunities to move! Teachers intentionally plan for the environment and experiences that promote children
to use their bodies for tummy time, grasping objects, rolling, crawling, pulling up, and taking those first steps.
The world is viewed and explored through one’s senses. Infants use their sight, taste, sound, smell, and touch
to figure out their surroundings. Our teachers entice and stimulate these explorations by providing a wide
variety of visual and tactile textures, sounds, and smells for children to manipulate. Some examples of these
materials include but are not limited to: water, paint, clay, sandpaper, cloth, wood, etc. Weather permitting,
children are taken out each day to explore the wonder of the outdoors and all that nature has to offer.
By meeting the children’s developmental needs of attachment, movement, and exploring through the senses,
we are giving them the tools they will need to be ready for their next stage of development.
Toddler – 15 to 36 Months
In our toddler classrooms, the children diligently seek autonomy, order, and learning through imitation. These
are the primary drives of children this age.
Children at this age begin to see themselves as separate entities of their caregivers. With this new found
revelation they begin to wonder what they can do for themselves and by themselves. Our teachers believe that
children are capable and provide an environment where children take the lead in their own self-help skills (i.e.
toileting, serving self at lunch, taking off and putting on clothes and shoes) and taking care of their environment
3
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020(i.e. putting works away, cleaning up after spills, washing tables, etc.) These opportunities support the children’s
development of independence and self-regulation.
Order for young children is about learning what is expected of them and others. It is essential for brain
development and starts to emerge around 12 months, peaking between 18 months and 3 years of age. Having
consistent routines and boundaries gives the children stability and also helps them discover how the world
around them works. Our toddler rooms support this utmost important need by having clear and concise
expectations of the children and structured routines so children know what to do and how to do it. These
opportunities support independence because it allows for the brain to understand the systems and processes
of how to complete tasks. Order can also be found in many of the works that the teachers provide. For instance,
experiences may focus on concepts such as transferring, sequencing, and sorting. All of these support the
cognitive development of young children.
Toddlers learn through imitation. They watch the adults in their lives and want to do what they do. They are
naturally curious about cleaning, cooking, and taking care of others. In each toddler room, the dramatic play
area gives children the opportunity to explore these ideas. However, because the children have such a strong
desire for real life experiences, the teachers also offer experiences to pursue curiosity, giving them real tools
and materials to experiment and investigate with. A few things you may see children doing include: peeling
eggs, cutting bananas, or using a child-sized vacuum.
Among these three primary developmental needs, we also recognize that young children at this age still engage
their environment using their senses. Provocations are provided for children to use their hands, ears, taste
buds, noses, and eyes to explore new ideas. Using their whole bodies to learn, supports children’s memory
which is essential for development.
Having developed autonomy, imitation, and an understanding of order, children are ready to take on more
complex work and thinking as they enter the preschool stage.
Preschool – 3 to 5 years
At this age, there becomes a heightened need for purposeful work, representations, and peer relationships.
As the children mature, their thinking and questioning become more complex. Their work begins to have a
driving question, a plan, and usually some type of product that shows the new ideas they are constructing. This
is purposeful work. In our preschool rooms, this need is met through project work. Teachers observe and listen
for the questions children are naturally pursuing. Using these big concepts the children are curious about, they
set up experiences and allow space for children to investigate their wonderings, test hypotheses, and use the
tools (such as language, math, science) to answer their questions and develop new questions. Through this type
of work the children make unusual connections, see how things work together, and how things are connected
to one another.
As preschoolers acquire new ideas, they have a need to share them. Drawings, writings, conversations, building,
dancing, and creating are a few examples of methods a child may choose to represent their thinking. The
preschool environment is set up for children to be able to express themselves in many different ways. Teachers
support the children’s articulation of thought by: having one-on-one conversations so the child can think aloud
about what they are creating, setting up conversations where children share with others about what they
created, and showcasing their work so the children can reflect on their thinking. Representations are powerful
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JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020because children see their work as valuable, their thinking as valuable, and they reveal so much about the child’s
development.
Children around the age of three begin to seek out ways to work collaboratively with others. Their work evolves
from working alongside another with little merging of ideas to working with one another, both contributing to
the work at hand. They begin to understand the give and take of relationships, what influence they have with
others, and to negotiate the unsure waters of friendships. Teachers help children acquire the necessary tools
through modeling, direct instruction, and conversations between the children. They set up the classroom to
create unity and respect between the learning community. The classroom is set up so that children can choose
to work in partners, in small groups, and also individually.
We know that it is common for parents of preschoolers to begin to wonder if their child is ready for kindergarten.
They are concerned about their child learning language and mathematics. In our preschool rooms, the focus is
meeting the children’s current developmental needs in all areas: language, cognitive, social, emotional, and
physical. When this is the focus, research shows us that the result is children are more than ready for the next
step in their lives. Language and mathematics are embedded in everything the children do in the classroom. By
using these tools in context, their understanding of the concepts are more concrete and grounded which
supports not only short term but also long term learning.
Language Throughout the Early Years
Language is at the core of life. It is how we connect with others and to the world we live in. As a child matures,
this concept grows exponentially. It begins at receptive language in infancy. Little ones are listening and
watching caregivers intently and responding with their own coos and babbles. Receptive language begins to
really take off around 12 months and around 2 years of age, children explode in their ability to use words and
simple sentences to communicate. As children continue to grow, their language gains complexity and clarity.
JAMEE teachers are attuned with the different sensitive periods of development for language and respond
intentionally to help children navigate this important tool.
Consistency of Care
We strive towards consistency of staffing within the classrooms. Teachers take the time to build relationships
with children and their families. The teachers and directors spend time in each of the classrooms so the children
become familiar with them when there is a need to substitute.
Continuity of Care & Transitions
In an effort to provide continuity of care and a high level of quality in childcare, we have developed the following
plan to serve the developmental rights of children less than 30 months of age.
Any child 6 weeks to 15 months will be enrolled in our infant room, following the ratio of 1:4. If the room exceeds
4 children, the enrolled infants will be assigned a primary caregiver. The primary caregiver will be knowledgeable
and responsible for their assigned group of children, but also knowledgeable and responsive to the other
children in the classroom. This will serve as a natural division of labor and provide a system of communication
between caregiver and family.
Any child 15 months to 36 months will be enrolled in our toddler rooms, following the ratio of 1:5. If the room
exceeds 5 children, the enrolled toddlers will be assigned a primary caregiver. The primary caregiver will be
5
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020knowledgeable and responsible for their assigned group of children, but also knowledgeable and responsive to
the other children in the classroom. This will serve as a natural division of labor and provide a system of
communication between caregiver and family.
Children 3 years through 5 years will be enrolled in our preschool rooms, following the ratio of 1:10. Preschool
1 can accommodate 15 children and Preschool 2 can accommodate 14 children. Teachers will work together to
support the needs of the children enrolled in these classrooms and provide observation, documentation, and
engaging learning materials.
Communication between the family and teachers is vital. Therefore, all teachers will be responsible for
communicating with families about the day to day happenings in the classroom.
As a child approaches a transition into the next classroom, the family will be notified. A family member will be
required to meet with the current teacher and teacher for the next classroom. Parents are invited to observe
in the new classroom. This will help the family understand the next classroom and get to know the teachers.
The transition will be a period of two weeks and include children visiting their new classroom and family to
teacher connections.
Communication
Each classroom participates in Brightwheel, an online communication tool for schools and families to interact
interchangeably. Teachers will record information from the day and parents can access this from their
smartphone or computer. Teachers may communicate in additional ways. During the year there are optional
and mandatory meetings to discuss development. Additional meetings can be arranged at any time.
Schedules and Tuition
Sessions
JAMEE currently offers two sessions. Official start and end dates of sessions are pending GKB School Corporation
start and dismissal dates.
● Summer: June – August
● School Year: August – May
Registration
A non-refundable registration fee of $30.00 is due at the time of registration for each session. These fees must
be turned in prior to your child’s start date. Families of children attending year round will be waived the summer
session registration fee. All children will be required to re-register each fall during our enrollment period and
pay a new registration fee. This registration process ensures that JAMEE has up to date information for your
child and your family.
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JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020Documentation Required For Your Child’s Records
❏ Enrollment Application
❏ Consent of Medical Treatment/Over the Counter Medicine
❏ Bank Draft Authorization
❏ Child Care Center Health Record
❏ Current Immunization Record
❏ Receipt of Handbook Policies
❏ Food Program Parent Response Form
❏ Safe Conditions Policy
❏ Safe Transportation of Food Responsibility
❏ JAMEE Discipline/Guidance Policy
❏ Photo Release Form
❏ Breast Milk Procedure if applicable
❏ Infant Suggested Feeding Plan if applicable
❏ Safe Sleep if applicable
❏ Release for Dispensing Medication if applicable
All of these forms are enclosed in the enrollment folder and must be turned in prior to your child’s start date
and updated as necessary.
Parent Meetings
When a child enrolls in JAMEE, a meeting will be set with the teacher to orient the family on our policies,
philosophy, and the classroom. The child’s start date will occur after this initial meeting.
A parent or caregiver from each family will be required to attend a mandatory meeting each fall session to
review our Parent Handbook and learn about our approach to early learning. There will be two additional
meetings during the school year for families to meet with teachers, review their child’s portfolio, and learn
together. Information about these meetings will be posted at JAMEE and announced on Brightwheel.
Hours of Operation/ Holidays
JAM Early Education is open Monday through Friday from 6:00a.m.-6:00p.m. Classrooms will be merged 1 hour
at the beginning and 1 hour at the end of the day.
The Center will be closed the following holidays:
New Year’s Eve & Day Thanksgiving Day & the day after
Memorial Day Christmas Eve
Independence Day Christmas Day
Labor Day
JAM Early Education will post a sign-up sheet to determine attendance for other various days (Good Friday, Fair
Day etc.).
JAM Early Education will select a minimum of two days in a calendar year to shut down for cleaning, teacher
workdays, or special training. Families will be notified in advance and these days will be prorated off of tuition.
7
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020JAM Recreation Center/JAM Early Education will close when a LEVEL 1 Weather Emergency is declared for
DeKalb County. If other emergency closings occur, you will be notified via Brightwheel, social media, television,
radio stations and/or a parent phone call. You will not be charged for a day when JAM closes due to an
emergency.
Tuition
Weekly Tuition:
● Infants 6 weeks to 15 months - $165.00
● Toddlers 15 months to 3 years - $140.00
● Preschool 3 to 5 years - $130.00
Multi-children discounts are as follows: 2nd child- $10.00 off tuition and 3rd child- $15.00 off tuition
Food Program:
The JAMEE Food Program is a monthly option for all children enrolled in our school. Parents may choose to
participate in this program which provides breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack for $25 a month for the first
child, $23 a month for the 2nd child, and $20 a month for the 3rd child. The fees will be added to the tuition for
the first full week of each month. If a parent would like to change their preference for the following month a
new response form must be completed by the 15th of the current month. Families on the JAM Scholarship will
receive the scholarship discount on the Food Program. Families on Brightpoint Vouchers will have the meals
included in their voucher fees.
Fees/Payments
Payments are expected no later than Monday of the service week. We accept direct withdraw, check, credit
card, or cash. Payments made by check should be made out to the JAM Recreation Center. Your account must
be paid in full every Monday in order for your child to attend school. All billing change, schedule change, and
vacation request forms must be filled out and turned in at the Welcome Center for processing.
You are responsible for paying when your child is absent and on holidays. When you enroll your child, you are
reserving the space for your child and the time of our staff.
There are three options available for tuition payment:
1. Online payments
2. Scheduled payments with our billing department via credit/debit card or checking/savings
accounts
3. Weekly self-pay at our Welcome Center with cash, credit/debit, or check
BRIGHTPOINT Vouchers
Parents are responsible to pay the co-pay or any additional fees not covered by Brightpoint Vouchers or in the
absence of swiping. Parents will swipe each day for Brightpoint purposes and attend renewal meetings as
needed.
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JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020Scholarships
The JAM Center offers scholarships to families based upon financial need. The scholarships are 20%, 30%, or
40% off of tuition and the Food Program. Scholarships may not be combined with any other assistance program.
Applications are available at the Welcome Center and are awarded based upon funding that is available in the
scholarship fund.
Late Pick-Up Fees
All children must be picked up on time. A late fee of $1.00 per child for every minute after the center closes will
be charged to your account. We understand that an emergency can occur or some special problem may arise
occasionally. If this should happen, late fees may still be assessed, but a call is necessary. At 15 minutes past
closing, the emergency contact people on the Enrollment Application will be contacted. After one hour, if we
are not able to reach anyone, Child Protective Services will be notified.
Schedules
Monthly schedules will be provided for you to complete stating expected drop off, pick up, and no attendance
days. This form is essential to our scheduling and needs to be completed and turned in with the most accurate
information that can be provided. We utilize these forms to determine our needs for staffing and our staffing
schedule.
You must adhere to the schedule that you have provided for your child. If a change needs to be made to your
child’s schedule, fill out a “Change of Schedule” form located at the Welcome Desk. We will not take your child
if it is not on their scheduled day unless approved by the lead teacher. This must be submitted prior to the
change in schedule. If parents need a last minute change (as soon as possible but no later than 24 hours ahead
of time), they may contact the lead teacher directly using Brightwheel to discuss the possibility of a change in
schedule.
Vacation Time Policy
Weekly tuition is charged with the exception of one week of vacation. Vacation week cannot be taken until your
balance is paid in full.
● Children must take all vacation days consecutively.
● There are no rollovers. Vacation time must be taken within a year from the start of the school-year
session.
If you would like to request a week of vacation, please fill out a form at the Welcome Desk. We request two
weeks’ notice of the vacation for billing purposes.
School Delays
On the days that the local schools have a weather related delay, later drop off times will be accommodated to
align with altered schedules. Communicate with the lead teacher to let them know when your child’s drop off
will occur via Brightwheel.
Absences/ Cancellations/ Withdrawal
You must notify the lead teacher via Brightwheel if your child will be absent on a scheduled day of attendance.
To withdraw your child, submit a change form at the Welcome Center. If JAM Early Education is not notified,
we will continue to bill your account for two weeks.
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JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020Termination Policy
We reserve the right to terminate services at any time.
Classroom Etiquette
Open Door Policy
JAM Early Education has an open door visitation policy for parents. Communicate with your child’s teacher prior
to the visitation to best accommodate your child and other students in the class. Keep children’s needs in mind
when planning a visit. Visitors can be a disruption to some children.
Security
The door to the early education area will be locked at all times. The Welcome Center Specialist will let you in
when you arrive. Keep your child with you at all times until they enter their classroom and upon pick up from
their classroom. Do not allow them to exit the building without you. Always sign in/out on the iPad located in
the classroom. If the Welcome Center Specialist doesn’t recognize the adult picking up, they will ask to see a
photo ID and compare it to our paperwork.
Cubbies
Your child has a cubbie at the center for storing personal belongings. All items that are brought must be able to
fit into the cubbie. We ask you to help us keep the beauty of our arrival area neat by not placing items on top
of the cubbies. Medications are not allowed to be kept in the cubbies. If you are bringing in medications for
your child please refer to the medication policy. You are responsible to check cubbies daily for your child’s
artwork, important papers, etc. and are to help your child learn where his/her cubby is located. Infants do not
have cubbies and are provided a place to keep their belongings within the classroom.
Infant cubbies for car seats are located in the lobby. Your teacher will designate a space for you. If older children
need a space for a car seat, speak with your teacher and we will see if there is a spot open to accommodate
your need.
Personal Items
All Classes: During your parent meeting the teacher will explain the order and routine of the classroom. You
are responsible to dress your child in appropriate clothing for the season and environment. Send your child in
clothes that can get dirty. The classrooms are fully equipped to engage and stimulate your child’s learning. We
ask you to leave toys, games, electronic equipment, and cell phones at home. If your child has a need for a
transitional item (blanket, stuffed animal, comfort item), communicate with your teacher and together we will
come up with a plan. All parents of children 12 months and older are responsible to provide blankets, pillows,
and snuggle items from home for your child at nap time. All approved items will need to easily fit in the cubby
space.
Infant Class: All children enrolled in our infant classroom must bring 4-5 extra outfits to keep here at the center.
Each child will also need: diapers, wipes, and food that is labeled. Infants do go outside when weather permits
so we ask for parents to bring in coats, socks, and shoes.
Toddler Class: All children enrolled in our toddler classroom must bring 4-5 extra outfits to keep here at the
center. This includes pants, shirts, socks, shoes, and underwear (if applicable). The children in the toddler
classroom work on activities independently, so messes and accidents do occur. We will be running, walking,
and jumping. Toddler children should wear shoes that are slip on or Velcro, we prefer no flip flops. We are
working with the children continually on putting on and taking off their own shoes, because inside the toddler
10
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020classroom is a shoe free zone. Children remove their shoes upon entrance into the classroom. They may wear
slippers, gripper socks, or their bare feet in the classroom.
Preschool Class: All children enrolled in the preschool classroom must bring two full outfits to keep at the
center. A full outfit includes pants, shirts, socks, shoes, and underwear. We will be running, jumping, walking,
going outdoors, and working in the gym. Please make sure your child is wearing appropriate footwear for these
activities. Children do not wear their shoes in the classroom; they may wear socks or slippers instead. We may
encourage shoes with laces when a child shows he or she is interested in this next step.
Rest Time
Children’s brains and bodies need rest to function at their best. The children have a rest period each day.
Children rest as long as they need. Resting times are available any time throughout the day that they feel their
bodies need it. Cots are sanitized daily. Scheduled rest time takes place between 12-3 p.m. each day. Parents
are responsible to provide a familiar cuddly blanket and a small pillow for rest time. Both of these items should
be small enough to fit neatly into the cubby space. Take all naptime items home at the end of the week for
cleaning. In order to provide undisrupted rest time for children, pick up and drop off during this time is not
permitted. Each classroom has their own naptime policy. We understand the needs for naps are as individual
as each child. For those children who may have outgrown this need, teachers then provide quiet activities for
them to complete while the other children are napping.
Outdoor Play
Outdoor time is considered an integral part of our center. All children will go outside daily with their class as
long as the temperature is above 25 degrees. Extra clothing, coats, gloves, hats, and boots must be brought in
so the children can be prepared for the weather.
Injuries
Our staff makes every effort to ensure the safety of your child. Unfortunately, accidents do occur. As a partner
in the care and education of your child, we realize that you want to be aware of your child’s injuries or illnesses.
In order to keep you informed we provide Incident Reports. In case of a serious injury, we will contact you for
instructions. If we cannot reach you, we will call the person you have indicated on the emergency contact list to
make medical emergency decisions about your child. Keep all these numbers updated. Emergency assistance
will be called if the injury/ illness deem it necessary. If a child goes to the hospital via ambulance, a staff member
will stay with the child until a parent arrives at the hospital.
Nutrition/Food Service
We offer breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack for infants, toddlers, preschool, and school age children
attending the center. The menus follow nutritional guidelines established by the U. S. Department of
Agriculture. Under these guidelines, we offer children a variety of healthy foods. A current menu is posted in
the Early Education hallway and in the kitchen. Children with special dietary needs will work with the director
to accommodate such needs. All food allergies or special dietary needs must have a written doctor’s statement
explaining the need and the action plan. Food allergies and special diets are posted in the kitchen and in the
area where the child’s food is served. This program is optional and costs $25 a month for the 1st child, $23 a
month for the 2nd child and $20 a month for the 3rd child. If a family chooses to provide their own food, it
needs to be packed with ice packs and cannot be heated. The family will also need to follow the healthy
guidelines set by the state and must follow state restrictions for children under 3. JAM Early Education will
provide this information. The parents can choose monthly which meal format they will be using.
11
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020For children one year or older, a period of not less than 2 hours and not more than 3.5 hours shall separate
meals and snacks, unless children are sleeping. Milk, provided by the parent and/or the facility, is served at
breakfast and lunch. Milk that is provided shall be whole milk for children under the age of two unless physicians
order a specific substitution. Reconstituted, dry, or fat free milk will not be offered to children by the facility. No
milk less than 1% may be served to children ages two (2) and older unless a child has a physician’s or nurse
practitioner’s statement.
Parents of children in the infant classroom must fill out a Food Plan and staff follows that food plan for all meals
and snacks. Parents must update this plan as the child’s needs change.
Meal times allow children the chance to make choices, develop relationships, practice self-help skills, and learn
the art of conversation. This is a time of beautiful social interaction and development. Conversation is
encouraged. Food is not used as a reward or punishment at JAM Early Education.
Food from Home
Parents must complete a “Safe Transportation of Food” form for any food brought from home. Snacks brought
in for the entire class must be pre-packaged and do not require this form. If parents bring food from home they
are required to follow the same nutrition guidelines JAMEE follows.
Toilet Training
For toilet training to be successful, communication between home and school is essential. Toilet training is done
in a relaxed manner with the cooperation of the family. When you or a teacher feels a child is ready to begin
toilet training we can discuss it together. To expedite going from diapers to underwear do not put your child in
both. Diapers/pull ups may be used for naptime until a child stays dry during nap. Accidents are expected.
REMEMBER: we must have several complete changes of clothes at all times, including socks.
Supportive Documentation
Families agree to disclose any information that is pertinent in caring for their child while within our care. This
includes the authorization to communicate with other educators, counselors and caregivers in the child’s life.
This also includes any professional assessments/diagnoses, individual education plans, behavior modification
strategies, and other items that would help the staff provide the best care.
Supportive Action Plan
We are dedicated to working with children and parents to create a successful experience and promote the
educational, social, and personal development of children. In order to address and correct inappropriate
behavior, JAM will use the following progressive supportive action plan as a supplement to the routine and
ongoing communications that occurs between parents, teachers, and students:
Step 1: We redirect children. The teacher provides instructive guidance. The teacher discusses the behavior
with the child, explains what behavior the child needs to change, and offers acceptable alternatives. The child
will be given ample opportunity to follow the directive given. The teacher reinforces the expectation for
behavior several times a day.
Step 2: If the child ignores the teacher’s directive, the child must choose a different activity. This provides the
child an opportunity to behave productively in the new environment.
Step 3: If the child exhibits an escalation in the disruptive behavior or a developmental delay, the parents and
staff will work together to create an action plan.
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JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020Step 4: If this plan does not meet the needs of the child and the issue continues, a conference between the
teacher, the director, and the parents will be arranged to determine the next step.
Inclusion Policy
The JAMEE Center is committed to providing developmentally appropriate early learning experiences that
support the full access and participation of each and every child. We believe that each child is unique and work
in partnership with families and other professionals involved to meet the needs of each child. Strategies and
environments will be planned to meet the needs of all children based on their age, stage and ability. If it is
determined that the teachers and program cannot meet the needs of the child, a conference will be arranged
to discuss alternatives.
Arrival and Departure
Arrival/Departure
The center opens at 6:00 a.m. each morning and closes at 6:00 p.m. each evening. Each classroom will provide
parents with a schedule that shows green, yellow, and red times for drop off and pick up. Transitions are
stressful to children, and by having this plan in place, we hope to minimize the stress for the children in each
classroom. Drop off and pick up is to take place during the green periods of time. If drop off or pick up needs
to take place during the yellow times, the parents must get permission from the classroom teacher, and the
parents will place the child into the care of a staff member who will quietly transition the child into the classroom
or will request the child be brought out to the parent for pick up. If an emergency occurs and drop off or pick
up is needed during the red times, the director or teacher will speak with the parent. The director or another
staff person will transition the child into or out of the classroom.
Red times are designated for uninterrupted work times for children. During this period there will be no drop
off/pick up. Yellow times are built in time during the day when parents may need a late drop off or early pick
up. They are natural transition times that will minimize disruption for the routine to be altered.
During the green times, parents must accompany their children in and out of their classroom. Upon your child’s
arrival and departure, quietly greet your child’s classroom teacher and sign in or out using the Brightwheel app.
When you leave, be sure to say good-bye to your child, then follow through and leave. Continually returning
makes it more difficult for the child and parent to separate. When you depart, your child may cry and protest.
This protest is what psychologists call separation distress. It is part of the normal developmental process of
establishing an independent and autonomous existence, separate and apart from parents. If you are
experiencing difficulties in this area, let one of the teachers know.
At pick up, quietly let your teacher and your child know you are there. If a child has work out, they are
responsible for putting it away before departing. Sign out your child using the Brightwheel app.
We believe partnership is vital to support the children. We encourage parents to speak with teachers about
issues, concerns, and questions. However, arrival and departure times are not the best time for these
discussions. Because we want to devote our undivided attention to these matters, we ask parents to email, call,
Brightwheel message, or schedule a meeting to discuss things that may come up that require more in-depth
conversations.
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JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020Authorized to Pick-Up Policy
No child will be released to anyone but those listed on the enrollment form authorized to pick up the child.
Make sure that any one picking up your child at any time is listed on the form. Unfamiliar persons will be asked
for picture identification. Children can be released to either parent unless one parent is restricted from access
to a child by a court order. A copy of this order will be kept in the child’s file.
Therapy Action Plan
In cases where a child receives outside therapy during their time at JAM, parents are asked to provide the
teacher with the therapist’s name and dates/times of the therapy. Your child will be signed out during the time
of the therapy and signed back into the classroom when they return.
Health and Safety Issues
Safe Conditions Policy
The following steps will be taken to ensure that your child is safe while at Judy A Morrill (JAM) Recreation Center.
Children will be actively supervised with the required number of qualified adults (adults that have completed a
comprehensive criminal history check, drug screen, negative TB test, first aid, and CPR and training in child
development).
JAM Recreation Center will not care for children in areas that are being remodeled, repaired, or painted. The
director is responsible for maintaining all interior and exterior surfaces, including walls, floors, ceilings,
equipment, toys, furnishings, and cribs, in a safe condition, free of sharp points or jagged edges, splinters,
protruding nails or wires, loose parts, rusty parts or materials containing poisonous substances.
Teachers will provide high-quality and safe outdoor experiences with appropriate supervision within our
enclosed playground area. The outdoor areas will be routinely inspected for safety daily by staff and quarterly
by the JAM maintenance team.
The following steps will be followed.
1. Create a culture that supports children in independently cleaning themselves with the appropriate
adult assistance.
2. Keep the facility in a sanitary condition. Staff will clean and sanitize all equipment appropriately on a
daily and as-needed basis.
3. Monthly fire drills and biannual tornado drills.
4. Center will follow all fire codes and be inspected yearly.
5. Playground equipment will be used and installed according to manufacturer’s instruction.
6. Families are responsible for providing weather-appropriate clothing.
7. First aid kits will be accessible to staff at all times.
8. All injuries will be cared for and documented.
9. Only authorized staff and persons from a child’s pick up list will be allowed to be with the child.
10 Staff will not provide transportation or care for children outside of scheduled hours.
14
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020No-Smoking Policy
This is a non-smoking facility. No smoking is permitted inside the building at any time. Smoking is also prohibited
outside of the facility and on the entire JAM campus.
Sick Child Policy
Do not send your child to school if s/he has had any of the following described conditions during the previous
24 hours. If your child exhibits any of the following signs while at school, s/he will be isolated immediately and
you will be contacted to come pick up your child.
Guidelines for excluding sick children:
1. Fever over 101 degrees
2. Recurring vomiting
3. Diarrhea (more than 3X)
4. Eye discharge (conjunctivitis is extremely contagious)
5. Any unidentified rash
6. Lice infestation
If your child is unable to participate in the everyday experiences, the teacher has the discretion to request to
send the child home.
WHEN A CHILD MAY RETURN TO THE CENTER:
1. Temperature has been below 101 degrees for 24 hours without medication.
2. The child has been diagnosed as having a bacterial infection and has been on an antibiotic for 24 hours.
3. 24 hours since the last episode of vomiting or diarrhea without medication.
4. The nasal discharge is not thick, yellow, or green.
5. No eye discharge or treatment with an antibiotic for 24 hours.
6. The rash has subsided or the physician has determined that the rash is not contagious. Physician’s release
must accompany the child.
7. Lice treatment completed and no nits present.
Medication
In order to provide treatments and medication for children, the following procedures are required.
1. Over-the-Counter, Topically-Applied
Example: Sunscreen, bug spray, diaper rash cream
Needed from the Parent: Signed Over the Counter Medication Form, supply of diaper rash cream (not
expired) with full child’s name in its original container. Parents are requested to donate sunscreen and
bug spray for classroom use.
2. Over-the-Counter Oral Medication
Example: Tylenol, Benadryl
Needed from Parent & Physician: Completed Release for Dispensing Medication Form, supply of
medication/cream (not expired) with full child’s name in its original container
15
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 20203. Prescription Medication
Example: Any prescribed medication
Needed from Parent & Physician: Completed Release for Dispensing Medication Form, supply of
medication/cream (not expired) with full child’s name in its original container that includes the
prescription label, the prescription on the bottle may serve as form only if it includes the following:
-full name of the child
-medication name
-dosage and frequency to be administered
-reason for the medication
-physician’s name and signature
-date that the prescription was filled and when it expires
All medicine is given according to instructions. We are only allowed to give exactly what is prescribed, therefore,
if you are using a generic form of the medication, make sure the correct name is documented on the
prescription. Parents are responsible for providing liquid measuring syringes or measuring spoons for
administering medication. All consistent prescriptions must be renewed every two years for children enrolled.
Each time a prescription is renewed, we must have a copy of it on file. JAM maintains a written record of the
time and amount given, who administered the medication, and the child receiving it for all medications. This
information is also put into Brightwheel. If your child has a medical condition that requires the use of injection
medications (epi-pen, insulin shots, seizure medications), families are required to submit an Emergency Action
Plan signed by your child’s physician. Unused and/or outdated medications are discarded.
Additional Policies
Supervision Policy
JAM Early Education provides appropriate care and supervision of children at all times. The ratio of teachers to
children is based upon the following provisions:
Infants 1 staff to every 4 infants
Toddlers 1 staff to every 5 toddlers
2 year olds 1 staff to every 5 two year olds
2 ½ year olds 1 staff to every 7 two-and-a-half year olds
3 year olds 1 staff to every 10 three year olds
4 year olds 1 staff to every 12 four year olds
5 year olds 1 staff to every 15 five year olds
If ages are combined the ratio for the youngest child is used.
Safe Sleep Policy
All infant staff practices safe sleep procedures as approved by the Bureau of Child Care. A written safe sleep
policy is signed by all infant parents.
16
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020We follow the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Safety
Commission for safe sleep environments to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is “the
sudden death of an infant under 1 year of age, which remains unexplained after a thorough case investigation,
including performance of a complete autopsy, examination of the death scene, and review of the clinical
history”.
Our written policy is as follows:
● All infants are placed on their backs in safety-approved cribs unless an alternate sleep position is needed
for a medical reason and written note from the infant’s health professional is provided. This note needs
to include the medical reason and to what degree the mattress needs to be inclined in inches.
● Infants do not sleep on waterbeds, sofas, soft mattresses, or other soft surfaces.
● Soft materials, such as pillows, quilts, comforters, sheepskins, stuffed toys and loose bedding are not
placed in infants’ sleep environments.
● Infants do not share a safety-approved crib with other children.
● Supervised “tummy time” is observed while the infant is awake.
● No smoking is allowed in infants’ environment.
Sanitation Policy
Parents must supply diapers and wipes. Changing areas have running water and are disinfected after each use.
Teachers wear a fresh glove each time they change a child’s diaper.
Child Protection Laws
Abuse or neglect of a child is reported by any person on our staff to Child Protection if it is suspected. We are
legally required to report any suspected abuse or neglect of a child within 24 hours of the suspected abuse or
neglect. We use the following list as a frame work in determining what constitutes a need to report, if:
● The child’s parent, guardian or custodian fails to provide the child with basic necessities such as food,
clothing, medical care, education or supervision.
● The parent, guardian, custodians act/omission seriously endangers the child’s physical or mental health;
● The child is a victim of sexual abuse;
● The parent, guardian, or custodian allows the child to commit a sex act or obscene performance;
● The child endangers his/her own or another’s health.
Transportation Policy
JAM Early Education does not provide transportation for children to/from our facility.
Drills and Evacuations
Fire Drills / Tornado Drills
Each room has emergency plans, routes, and procedures posted. The center practices fire drills monthly.
Tornado drills are done twice a year.
First Aid Kits
First aid kits are located in each classroom. When leaving the facility, even going out of the classroom, staff takes
along the first aid kit. Our staff is wearing gloves whenever they are dealing with any bodily fluids.
17
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020Emergency Procedures
In case of an actual fire, railroad, tornado, or other emergency which will leave the building or area unsafe for
children to return in, the following procedure will be followed:
● Staff gather all children and follow the instructions of those in charge, which include Civil Defense, Red
Cross, Police, and/or Fire Personnel.
● If possible, staff notifies parents or guardians of the emergency and how to proceed.
● All staff members remain with children until all children are safely returned to parents and guardians.
● If a child is injured, the procedure listed under Medical Emergencies will be followed for that child.
In case of a tornado, staff takes all the children into the building’s designated location as posted in the classroom.
Children and staff get on the floor on their knees, putting their head down, and then cover their head with their
arms. Their position will be held until they are notified it is clear.
In the event a child is hurt in any way, the parent is notified immediately for serious or potentially serious cases
(example: head injury, excessive bleeding, broken limb, seizure, etc.).
In all cases a written report is shared with the parent at the end of the day. A parent should NEVER leave the
center with doubt or unanswered questions. If a child needs to go to the hospital via ambulance, a staff member
will stay with the child until the parent arrives at the hospital.
In case of a lockdown, no one is allowed to enter or leave the building.
Special Events
Special Days
Each classroom may offer a special activity for your child (for example, swimming day or splash pad day). Parents
are given timely notice and reminders of the event through Brightwheel, so they can provide the needed items
for the special activity. Parents who bring their children to the center on the day of the activity without the
needed items they will be asked to go retrieve the items or find alternate care for their child for the day.
Swimming Opportunities
The JAM Center has an aquatics facility available to our children, allowing opportunities for children to utilize
the pool or splash pad. Our preschool children have the option to enroll in a swim lesson just for their class.
There is a monthly fee associated with the class. Contact the Welcome Center for more information. It is not a
requirement and the children not participating will have a different option during swim lessons. The toddler
classroom may occasionally schedule a time to utilize the splash pad as a class. There is no fee associated with
this activity and parents will be notified in advance.
Each child who is enrolled in swim lessons or will be participating in special splash pad or swim days is to have
their own bathing suit provided by the parents. If there is not a bathing suit for the child, the child may not
swim. At no point in time should children be borrowing other children’s bathing suits. After special swim
days for infants and toddlers, swimsuits will be placed in the cubbies to go home with the child. Children in
swim classes will leave swimsuits here and they will be washed. The JAM Center will provide towels for all
18
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020aquatics activities. These towels will be put in with daily laundry and taken to the laundry room. After
washing and drying, towels will be returned to early education in the laundry basket.
Destination Experiences
A classroom teacher may decide to offer an off-site experience for the children and their families (zoo, park,
library, farm). Full details about this activity would be shared in advance with families through Brightwheel and
printed materials. Families and teachers would be responsible to provide their own transportation to the
destination. Once at the location, the group would enjoy the outing together. Classroom hours may be altered
on these special days.
Celebrations
JAMEE enjoys celebrations and special events in the lives of our families. Children may bring in something
special in recognition of a birthday or other important events. We encourage it to be healthy and meaningful.
Instead of celebrating specific holidays, the classroom teachers focus on celebrating the season through nature
and exploration. We also recognize the vast cultural and religious expressions of holidays. For these reasons,
our teachers do not plan celebrations based on their own beliefs or commercial holidays. We encourage families
and children to share their experiences and family traditions.
Photo Release
JAMEE utilizes photography and videography to document student growth, communicate daily activities, and
share our impact within the community. These images may be shared on Brightwheel, our social media sites,
in our marketing materials, or on our website. The JAMEE Photo Release Form gives caregivers the opportunity
to choose how they want these images used. A foster child’s photo or video will not be displayed in any public
forum.
Notice to Parents:
By signing the Receipt of Handbook Policies, parents are agreeing to follow and abide by all of our current
policies and procedures. If JAM Early Education policies and procedures are not being followed, a meeting with
the director will be scheduled to discuss further participation in the program. We greatly appreciate your
understanding and look forward to working with you and your family.
19
JAM Early Education Parent Handbook - Revised February 2020You can also read
