During toilet learning parents will need to supply:

1. Three complete changes of clothing (socks included)
2. 5-ply training pants (6 pair per day)
3. Plastic pants (6 pair per day)
4. Diapers or pull-ups for naptime

Do not bring your child in panties or underwear until he/she has naptime and bedtime control established.

I also ask that during toilet learning, the child be dressed in "user-friendly" clothing as much as possible. The best items are shorts and pants with elastic waists, or dresses for girls. Try to avoid really tight clothing, pants with snaps and zippers, and overalls as often as you can. Your child will want to help pull pants, etc. up and down, plus clothing with too many "gadgets" makes it harder to get the child on the potty in time.

HOUSE RULES

There are certain house rules that all children will be taught and expected to follow. This is for the safety and well being of everyone.

There will be no running permitted in the house. Hitting, pushing, biting, grabbing, kicking, spitting, or pinching other children or adults will NOT be allowed. No standing or climbing on chairs or tables. There will be no use of obscene, derogatory or disrespectful language.

Children may not walk around the house with food, cups, or bottles. Respectful treatment of other people and all property, toys, and furniture is expected. Willful destruction of property will be charged to the parent at the cost to replace the item. Please support us in the enforcement of these rules, in order to create a better environment for all (See also Departure and Arrival).

There will be no smoking permitted on premises.

BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT & DISCIPLINE POLICY

When a child is having a difficult time following directions or treating others or equipment with respect, developmentally appropriate guidance techniques are used. These techniques are as follows:

Positive Reinforcement: The child will be encouraged when he/she is demonstrating acceptable behavior.
Redirection: The child is redirected to another activity and given an opportunity to try again at another time.
"When… Then" Statements: A statement in which the child is encouraged to accomplish something before going on to something else. Sample: "When you finish picking up the blocks, then you can go outside."
"If… Then Statements: A statement is which the child is encouraged to make a positive choice. Sample: "If you pick up the blocks, then you can go to the Dramatic Play area." Take a Break: The child is separated from the group for a child-regulated period of time. This technique is used when a child is exhibiting temper tantrum type behavior or hurting self, others, or equipment. When the child shows that he/she is ready to demonstrate acceptable behavior, the child is encouraged to join the rest of the group and try again.

If your child or children are disobedient and/or destructive and cannot be controlled by me, you will be called to come correct the situation. Any destructive behavior that causes loss of personal property will be replaced by the parent. After a reasonable length of time, if the behavior is unchanged, my services will be terminated. A notice will be given to the parent in advance, there will not be a refund of tuition or any other fees.

ADJUSTMENT

WHAT IS NORMAL: It is normal for your child to have some fears and misgivings about being away from you. Children, like adults, need time to get used to new situation. Try to prepare your child for the changes as far in advance as possible. Discuss any concerns. Talk about some of the new people your child will meet and the new things your child will do. If you are enthusiastic, soon your child will be too.
FIRST EXPERIENCE: If this is the first time your child has been separated from you, it is natural for he/she to be hesitant. A cheerful good-bye kiss, a smile, and a reassuring word that you will be back after work is all you need to do. Our caring staff will take it from there. Usually the child will settle down shortly after you leave.
COMMON BEHAVIORS: Depending on their age, some children will "act out" their feelings by:

1. Clinging to you and refusing to let go
2. Having tantrums
3. Forgetting their toilet training
4. Not eating
5. Waking up at night or having bad dreams
6. Thumb sucking
7. Bed-wetting

FIELD TRIPS

Occasionally, we may have the opportunity to go on a field trip. Parents are welcome to accompany us if desired. All children will be placed in safety approved car seats in accordance with the Texas state law. Parents may be requested to provide a car seat for the day. I may also ask for you to pack a lunch for your child on that day, and you may need to pay any fees associated with the trip. Written authorization is required for parents to fill out before their child may attend a field trip.

If you do not wish for your child to participate in the field trip, you will be required to make other arrangements for childcare for that day.

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