The Family Handbook Quick Index: (scroll below to read our handbook or click HERE to download a PDF version)

Montgomery College Early Learning Centers provide:
• Play experiences that are developmentally appropriate and fun.
• An environments that is safe and educationally stimulating.
• Small groups with planned opportunities to develop foundational skills in literacy and mathematics.
• Meaningful, relevant experiences and opportunities that develop each child’s love for learning
• Learning relationships that are supportive, trustful and nurturing.

With our mission and philosophy as the foundation, the Center curriculum is developed in accordance with the State of Maryland Code of Regulations Governing Group Child Care Centers and with the accreditation criteria of the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s National Academy for Early Childhood Programs.

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OUR ACCREDITATION: The MCEL Centers are licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education, Office of Licensing. The Centers are also nationally accredited through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

What is accreditation?
NAEYC is the largest professional organization of early childhood educators in the world and the recognized leader in development and articulation of best practice. Early childhood programs accredited by NAEYC’s National Academy of Early Childhood Programs have voluntarily undergone a comprehensive process of internal self-study, invited external professional review to verify compliance with Criteria for High-Quality Early Childhood Programs, and been found to be in substantial compliance with the Criteria. Additional information regarding NAEYC and its accreditation standards can be found on the at www.naeyc.org/accreditation

OUR CURRICULUM: Young children are learning all the time! At Montgomery College Child Care Centers, each experience in the life of a child is seen as “curriculum” or an opportunity to learn new concepts and to gain new skills and ideas.

Daily experiences are tailored for each individual child to reach optimal development and success. Through play, active participation and decision-making and learning centers, young children:
• Enhance their self-concept
• Increase their awareness of the world around them.
• Build skills for positive and healthy interactions with peers and adults.
• Gain foundational skills in literacy and mathematics needed to be successful in school.
• Learn to care for and respect materials and property.

Developmentally appropriate activities are designed to meet children’s physical, social, cognitive and emotional needs.

Physical development highlights good health and hygiene practices and appropriate nutrition; activities that enhance each child’s body coordination of large muscles through running, jumping, climbing, dancing, bike riding, ball playing, etc.; fine motor skills develop eye-hand coordination through such activities as block building, lacing, connecting and disconnecting interlocking blocks, and handling crayons, markers, scissors, and bean bags.

Social development highlights working and playing together through small and large group activities, as well as the creation of friendships through effective dialogue and interactions, negotiation and problem solving, appropriate turn- taking, role playing, and involvement in community life.

Cognitive (or intellectual) development highlights language and literacy activities, reading readiness, recalling events, processing information and following directions. Cognitive development also includes math readiness, sorting and classifying, comparing and counting; science, sensory and carpentry activities include using one’s five senses to understand, explore and investigate the environment, hypothesize and draw conclusions.

Emotional development highlights interactions with staff and children that build self-confidence and self-concept. It includes the ability to identify and express one’s needs appropriately and assist others, self-reliance and trust in oneself and others; includes the ability to venture to try new experiences, separation, transition, flexibility and adaptability to daily routines and schedule adjustments; incorporates freedom of expression through dance, music and movement, creative art and dramatic play.

Our written curriculum resources (approved by MSDE) are Creative Curriculum (Teaching Strategies), Building Language Literacy (Scholastic), and Growing with Mathematics (MacMillan)

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OUR OPERATIONAL POLICIES:

Mix-Age Groupings: All classrooms at Montgomery College Child Care Centers are based on our belief in multi-age groupings. Children ages 2 ½ to 5 years are placed into the same classroom group. This grouping process, also called family-age grouping, provides many benefits to children. It builds positive social development and a community atmosphere, allows for child-paced cognitive development and encourages cooperative learning and peer mentoring.

With such diversity within one classroom, all children, regardless of age, will be contributing to the group. Pro-social behaviors such as giving, sharing, helping, and turn taking can be exhibited at any age and be a positive model for all. The group then becomes a nurturing helping community where children can assist or be assisted by another child with age not necessarily being a factor.

Children develop cognitively at different paces. Children’s development does not proceed by age. In mixed-age groups where the atmosphere fosters cooperative learning, children teach other children. In a mixed age classroom there is a room full of experts and novices all waiting to give help or receive it. When learning tasks involve children working together instead of individually or competitively, then productive collaboration between these “experts” and “novices” can occur.

Communication: Close communication is important as we work together to provide the best possible experiences for your child. If at any time, a family requires the services of a translator, MCEL Center staff will make every effort to provide this service. Staff will be available for quick verbal updates about your child at drop-off and pick-up times. The Center Manager is available by phone or e-mail as is the Child Care Services Director. We are also willing to schedule a conference with you at your request, as needed. Please keep us informed of significant changes and events that might affect your child’s typical behavior patterns.

Other regular communication channels include:
• Monthly newsletters,
• Weekly notes and periodic memos from each Center,
• Parent notice boards and parent mailboxes

If necessary, the Center will make every effort to provide a translator.

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Pre-Enrollment Visit: All children adjust to new environments at their own pace. To help with the adjustment process, Montgomery College Early Learning Centers require you and your child to visit the classroom a couple of times prior to your child’s entry into the program. Pre-enrollment visits may be one-half hour to one hour. During this time, the parent and child are encouraged to become involved in the regular classroom activities. This allows children begin to develop a sense of trust and to become comfortable in the new setting.

Child's Enrollment and Medical Files: Licensing regulations, as well as NAEYC standards, require that the following information be on file at the Center no later than the first day of attendance: medical records that document the dates of services to show that the child is current for routine screening tests and immunizations, current information about any health insurance** coverage required for treatment in an emergency, current emergency contact information for the child, instructions for any of the child’s special health needs such as allergies or chronic illness (e.g., asthma, hearing or vision impairments, feeding needs, neuromuscular conditions, urinary or other ongoing health problems, seizures, diabetes), and if necessary, supporting evidence for cases in which a child is under immunized because of a medication condition (documented by a licensed health professional) or the family’s beliefs.

Parents who are Montgomery College students are requested to file a class schedule and estimated location during the day with the Center’s Manager at the beginning of each semester.

** Please note that families have the right to deny providing information related to health insurance.

Adjustment and Trial Period: Once a child has begun attendance at the Center, there is a one-month trial period. Within this period, Center staff and parents are in regular communication to assist the child in a successful adjustment. Should parents and/or Center staff decide that the program is not meeting the child’s needs, the child may be withdrawn. Should there be a credit, you will receive a refund for the portion of the billing period remaining after your child’s enrollment is terminated.

As children adjust, here are some things that parents can do to help them adapt to the new environment of the Montgomery College Early Learning Centers:

• Most of all be patient, tolerant and easygoing. Recognize that beginning a new program, like all developmental milestones can be stressful and there will be some tension for your child.

• Remember to give your child plenty of preparation for coming to Montgomery College Child Care Centers. Children need and want to be told where they will be going, how long they will be there, and where you will be. They do not like surprises that relate to being separated from family.

• For the first few days, you are welcome to stay with your child for several minutes. In fact, if you can come early and stay for fifteen or twenty minutes, your child will feel more relaxed than if you allow only enough time to “drop and run.”

• After the first week your child is with us, it will be helpful to your child if you shorten the time you stay in the Center at drop-off time. Our teachers are experts in helping children to express their fears and soothing their tender feelings as you leave.

• To ensure a healthy development of trust, be sure to ALWAYS say good-bye to your child and assure your child that you WILL BE BACK LATER. Then, leave when you say you are leaving and return when you promise to return.

• Good-bye rituals (i.e., a “big bear hug” or a “kiss to last all day” or waving good-bye from the good-bye window) can be comforting to children.

• Sometimes a tangible item, i.e., a family photo for a child to keep with him/her during the day, can help ease the transition.

• When you return, be sure to speak directly with your child about the fact that you came back to pick him/her up to go home. Sometimes young children have fears that parents will not return and that the Center is their new home. They need to be assured that you will pick them up every day.

• Lastly, remember to talk to your child’s teacher and the Center Manager about your concerns. Call us by phone, write a note or e-mail or request a time to sit down and share your concerns. Because they are with children at drop-off and pick-up times, teachers are not able to discuss extensive concerns during these periods. So be sure to arrange a time to really share your concerns when the teacher can give you undivided attention. Our professional team is here to partner with you, so please speak with us.

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Signs of Readiness for Enrollment: When children are able to demonstrate the following behaviors, it is likely they will experience successful interaction in the Montgomery College Early Learning Centers:
• Make the transition from home to Center with a minimum of effort;
• Show interest in a person, action, or object;
• Engage adult attention when needed;
• Play alone and in small groups some of the time;
• Walk without assistance;
• Feed self using utensils;
• Follow a one-step direction;
• Recognize his/her name and the name of his/her teacher when spoken;
• Sleep or rest quietly on a cot; and
• Be comfortable without a bottle or pacifier during attendance at the Center.

Daily Schedule: Each classroom maintains its own schedule with a balance of:
• Active and quiet activities;
• Individual, small group and large group activities;
• Child-initiated and teacher-directed experiences; and
• Indoor and outdoor play.

Young children feel most secure when they know what is going to happen next. The daily routine provides security and can flex to meet the needs and interests of the group. The daily schedule is posted on the parent information board in each classroom. CLICK HERE for a sample daily schedule.

Outdoor Experiences: Outdoor experiences are an important, integral part of our daily schedule. During time outdoors, children can actively discover their environment, explore the natural elements, develop their gross motor skills and play freely with their peers. As a licensing requirement, we go outdoors in the morning and afternoon sessions. Please dress your child appropriate to the weather. Hats, mittens, boots, coats/raincoats need to be labeled. The delights of the outdoors are among the greatest experiences of children.

Assessments of Development: The teaching staff maintains a developmental portfolio of each child’s growth and progress. During scheduled parent/teacher conferences, these assessments are shared with parents in written form. Parents are welcome to review their child’s portfolio at any time. Parents are further encouraged to share observations from home that may be beneficial to the teaching staff in their assessments.

Whenever parents have any concerns or questions for the teachers, they are encouraged to consult with the teacher in charge of their child’s classroom. Additional conferences may be scheduled as needed or requested by the parent or classroom teacher.

The teaching staff will use multiple assessment sources, including results of informal and formal assessments to identify what children have learned. Teachers are expected to adapt curriculum and teach to meet the needs and interests of the children and extend their engagement. These assessments will be completed in the spring, fall and winter.

Staff members will inform families of the purpose of the assessments, the procedure used, timing of the assessments.

Families will be requested to participate in an annual survey, which provides feedback that is a key to the success of the Centers.

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Family Conferences: Montgomery College Early Learning Centers use parent-teacher conferences as an effective means to update parents on their child’s progress and to discuss any areas of concern teachers or parents may have related to the child. This is a time to exchange information and set goals as well as report on the child’s experiences at the Center. These conferences are key ingredients to the level of quality provided.

Parent conferences are scheduled twice per year, in the fall and spring. Parents are encouraged to attend. Parents who are unable to attend a conference at a scheduled time are encouraged to request an alternate time.

What to Bring to the Center: Each child will need to bring the following items from home:
• Package of disposable diapers and box of wipes, if applicable;

• A nutritious lunch if scheduled to be at the Center during lunchtime;

• Nap linens if scheduled to be in the Center at Naptime - two flat crib-size sheets, blanket and naptime cuddle item (stuffed animal, doll or book;)

• A complete change of clothes (pants, shirt, underpants, socks) to be kept at the Center for mishaps. When a child’s clothes are wet and/or soiled, uncomfortable, and there is no change of clothes at the Center, parents will be contacted to either bring clothes or pick-up the child.

What NOT to Bring to the Center: Please do not allow your child to bring to the Center:
• Money or other small objects that can be a choking hazard;

• Any food item containing peanut butter or peanut products

• Any food item that is a choking hazard (see list "Do Not Send" under Lunches)

• Chap stick, lip balm and other personal toiletries. Children like to share these and it is not hygienic

•Special toys or other personal items. The Centers are stocked with ample supplies and appropriate equipment. Toys and other items (other than the child’s cuddle item) brought from home are often very difficult for children to share and can easily become distracting rather than constructive.

• Teachers will inform parents of special times when children may bring unit-related items from home. A favorite naptime item is allowed and will be kept in the child’s cubby until naptime.

Clothing and Shoes: Children should be dressed comfortably for active play. Paint, dirt, and spilled juice can make school hard on clothes. Clothing should be easy for the child to manage him/herself and completely washable. Children are offered opportunities to use a wide range of materials including paints, pastels, chalk and other items that may stain. Even though we have children push up their sleeves and wear art smocks to protect their clothing, stains are still common. This possibility needs to be considered when dressing your child for school. The Center will not be financially responsible for replacing children’s clothing.

Every clothing item a child wears or brings to the Center must be clearly labeled with his/her name. A complete change of clothes for each child (shirt, pants, socks, underwear) is to be kept at the Center at all times.

Clothes must be appropriate to the weather. We go outside every day. Boots are needed for snow and wet muddy days. Hats, mittens, scarves, sweaters, boots, coats and other possessions must be clearly labeled with your child’s name.

Shoes must be sturdy, with a closed heel and toe and a non-skid sole, to allow for traction, mobility and safety for all activities in all types of weather. Sneakers are ideal; slippery sole shoes (i.e. crocs and jellies) and sandals are not allowed.

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Lunches: We are a peanut-free center. Please do not send with your child any food containing peanuts, peanut butter, etc. Children who are scheduled to be at the Center during lunchtime (Noon – 12:30) must bring a lunch. The Center provides milk for each child. All lunches must consist of nutritious foods that your child can feed him/herself.

The Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of Sciences recommends that your child’s lunch contain the following:
• One grain product (bread, crackers, rice, etc.);
• One protein product (meat, yogurt, cheese, eggs, dried beans); and
• Two fruits and/or vegetables.

Packing these foods in your child’s lunch will guarantee that your child’s daily lunchtime nutritional needs are being met. The Center Manager can provide additional information about planning healthy lunches if you would like further assistance.

We will not serve any of the following to your child for lunch, so please DO NOT send:

Foods that are choking hazards for young children, such as:
• Popcorn;
• Nuts;
• Hotdogs, unless cut lengthwise and then in half-circles;
• Grapes, unless cut in half;
• Cherry tomatoes, unless cut in half; and
• Whole raw carrots, including baby carrots. (Grated or shredded are acceptable)

Foods that have no nutritional value, such as:
• Soda, Kool-aid, or other sugar drinks.
• Candy, including sticky fruit treats that are not 100% fruit juice,
chocolate and gummy bears.
• High sugar dessert items.

Any of these foods will be returned home to you in your child’s lunchbox.

Adequate refrigeration is provided for all lunches. If you wish to send a hot item for your child’s lunch, it must be heated at home and sent to the Center in a thermos. All food and beverage items from home need to be labeled with the child’s name and date. Lunch boxes also need to be clearly labeled with the child’s name.

Any foods that come from home for sharing among the children must be either whole fruits or commercially prepared packaged foods in factory-sealed containers.

Snacks: The Centers provide nutritious snacks in both the morning and the afternoon. We believe that good nutrition is essential for good health and optimal development. Staff members WILL NOT offer children the following foods:
• Hot dogs
• Whole or sliced into rounds
• Whole grapes
• Nuts
• Popcorn
• Raw peas
• Hard pretzels
• Chunks of raw carrots
• Meat larger than can be swallowed whole.

Food Allergies: For any child with special health care needs or food allergies or special nutrition needs, the child’s health provider is required to provide the Center with an individualized care plan that is prepared in consultation with family members and specialists involved in the child’s care. The Center will protect children with food allergies from contact with the problem food.

Please notify the Center Manager if your child is allergic to any food. The Center must obtain permission from the family of the child with food allergies to post information related to the allergy. Upon consent, the Center will post that information in the food preparation area and in the areas of the facility the child uses so it is a visual reminder to all those who interact with the child during the program day.

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Birthdays and Celebrations: Most families have special days they celebrate including children’s birthdays. Children are usually very excited on their birthday about “getting bigger.” They are proud of the new things they can do. At Montgomery College Early Learning Centers, we will recognize each child’s birthday at the Center in a special way. On a child’s (example: Sadie’s) birthday, we will name the day for the birthday child (“Sadie’s Day”). In his/her honor, the birthday child will choose the snack the children eat on that day as well as one of the activities they do together. The teacher will recognize each child’s day in a uniform way. Please do not send snacks or other birthday items from home. You are welcome to come to the Center to join your child for his/her birthday snack or activity. If you do not celebrate birthdays at home due to religious reasons and do not wish your child to be recognized in this way, please let your child’s teacher know in advance. Thank you for your cooperation in helping us to assure children is recognized equitably.

At the Centers, we do not actually celebrate any particular holidays, but we do recognize special days children celebrate with their families. Children and families are invited to share stories or activities (art, foods) from your family’s culture with the group as a way to celebrate our diversity and learn from its richness.

Rest Periods: Children work and play hard all morning and need time to relax and be quiet. Individual cots are made available to all children who are in the Center between 1:00 and 3:00 for naptime. It is the parents’ responsibility to provide two flat crib-size sheets for your child’s cot. You may also send a small pillow and blanket, and naptime toy (book, stuffed animal or doll) if needed. All naptime linens must be clearly marked with your child’s name and these items must be laundered on a regular basis (at least weekly) and returned to the Center. We encourage parents to take linens home on Friday, or on your child’s last day of the week, and to return them freshly laundered on Monday, or your child’s first day of the week.

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Healthy Environments: We are committed to providing as healthy an environment as possible for all our children, families and staff. We follow the three main measures for reducing the risk of infectious disease in our environments:
• Certification of immunization – Each child must present certification of immunization against required childhood illnesses.

• Hand washing and Hygiene - Hand washing is the single best way to reduce germs and prevent illness in-group care. All staff and children are asked to wash their hands upon entry into our classroom.

• Exclusion of sick children from care – Children with signs of infectious illness will not be admitted to care.

More on Hand Washing and Hygiene: Our Center staff is diligent about washing their own hands and guiding children to wash their hands at appropriate times. According to approved guidelines, staff will wash their own hands and guide children to wash their hands when coming in from outside (including arrival), before food preparation, after using the toilet or coming into contact with any body fluid (their own or someone else’s) and whenever else needed. Children are taught to turn off the faucet with a paper towel to reduce their exposure to germs. This is a licensing requirement, and it is helpful when parents reinforce this practice at home. Toys, equipment and furnishings are disinfected routinely.

More on Exclusion of Sick Children From Care: In order to protect your child and all the children in our Centers, children will not be admitted into care when they have any of the following:
• Diarrhea and/or vomiting within the last 24 hours;
• Fever within the last 24 hours;
• Contagious or unidentified rash;
• Yellow or green discharge from eyes or nose;
• Severe cough;
• In the contagious period of an illness (i.e., conjunctivitis, chickenpox, strep infection, impetigo, hand and mouth infection, etc.;)
• Head injury within 24 hours;
• Severe cold or influenza;
• Head lice; and
• Other unusual symptoms for your child (extreme tiredness, lethargy, headache.)

Parents of a child who develops any of these symptoms while in the Center will be called immediately to pick up their child. When parents cannot be reached, the emergency contacts for the child will be called. Parents are responsible for making arrangements to pick up a sick child within an hour of notification. Children who become ill and are awaiting pick up by a parent will be provided with a comfortable space that is within sight and sound of a staff member while they are waiting for a family member to arrive.

Children may be readmitted to the Center following an illness with approval of the Center Manager and/or the child’s health care practitioner. A child may not be readmitted to the Center until 24 hours after the last signs of a fever (without medication,) diarrhea or vomiting. A child who has been absent, due to illness, for three or more days, may not be readmitted to the center without first receiving a written statement from the parent or physician that the child may return to a regular schedule.

Thank you for your cooperation with our policies to reduce the spread of illness.

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Administration of Medicine: Center personnel can ONLY administer medication (including over-the-counter medicines, sunscreen and vitamins as well as prescription medicines) to a child when the required paperwork is on file. For each medication needed, there must be a completed Authorization for Medication Form on file, which includes the name of the child, the name of the medication, the dosage, the times it is to be given and the signature of the parent. All medications should be in their original containers. Prescription medication should be in original pharmacy packaging and contain a pharmacy label with the child’s name, the name of the medication, dosage, dosage intervals, the name of the physician the date the prescription was filled, specified period of use for the medication and an expiration date. Non-prescription medications may not be administered to any child unless on written order of the parent or guardian.

With the exception of acetaminophen and topical medications, only one dose of a non-prescription medication may be administered to a child per illness unless a licensed health practitioner approves the administration of the non-prescription medication and the dosage.

First Aid Emergencies: Approved training in basic first aid and infant/child CPR emergency procedures is required of the Child Care Services Director, Center Managers, Lead Teachers, and other designated staff members. First aid by staff shall be limited to that necessary to preserve life or prevent further immediate damage and shall be administered within the boundaries of the approved training. In case of a serious injury, the campus Security Office will be notified by phone immediately.

In emergencies requiring immediate attention, EMS (911) will be called and your child will be taken to the nearest hospital emergency room. Parents will be notified immediately, using the phone numbers provided on the emergency medical form. (Please be sure to provide all relevant and updated numbers, including mobile phones). When parents are not available, the next designated emergency contact will be called. Any incident resulting in a child’s injury will be documented on an Accident/Incident Report Form. A copy will be given to the parents of the child/children involved.

Diapering: Children will be diapered every 2 hours and/or as needed. All diaper changes will be documented on a record sheet. Parents must provide a sufficient supply of disposable diapers and diaper wipes for their child. When a child needs a prescription strength cream for a diaper rash, a medical release form with a physician’s signature and parent’s signature is required. Over the counter diaper rash creams can be used only when a parent signs a medication authorization form.

Pull-ups may be used at the Center only if they have the side open-closures.

Toilet Learning Readiness: Toilet learning is a process. Successful bowel and bladder control is an important (and exciting) developmental milestone. It is important to be patient and follow the child’s cues when supporting children in this process. Forcing a child or rushing a child into potty training can seriously impact a child’s self-esteem, cause unnecessary power struggles and lead to undue stress on children and adults. When children begin to show signs of readiness, Center staff will work with parents to help each child gain mastery over toileting functions.

Readiness for toilet learning is determined when a child:
• Stays dry for several hours;
• Has regular bowel movements;
• Asks to be changed when his/her diaper is wet or soiled;
• Shows awareness of his/her bodily functions; and
• Communicates what he/she is doing either before or after urinating or passing a bowel movement.

Toilet learning includes a child’s willingness to initiate and ability to:
• Tell an adult he/she has to go;
• Undress to use the toilet;
• Sit on the toilet and go;
• Wipe;
• Flush; and
• Wash his/her hands.

When the above skills are not completed with minimal assistance from the teachers and within a three-week period, a child’s readiness may need to be re-evaluated.

A child in the toilet learning process should wear training pants and bring several extra pairs of training pants, as well as a couple of changes of clothes. Diapers may be used for nap.

There is no “right age” to toilet train a child. Children begin to gain most of the skills they will need between the ages of 24 and 36 months, yet a child may not be ready to master toilet learning until the end of his/her third or even fourth year. The more ready a child is when he/she begins the process, the quicker it will go.

When a child shows readiness both at home and at the Center, parents and teachers are able to work together toward success for the child.

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Field Trips: Montgomery College Early Learning Centers’ regular campus program may include activities such as campus/neighborhood walks, field trips, and other off-site activities that give the children a first-hand opportunity to add more specific information to what they already know about their world. Transportation for children not riding in their own parents’ vehicles may be in College vans driven by Center staff or in chartered vehicles. Additional fees, if any, will be due before the scheduled activity and all such activities will be announced well in advance.

2 ½ year olds will only be permitted to go on field trips when their parents drive and provide appropriate child seats. According to Maryland state law, approved child safety seats must be used for any child who is not yet 4 years of age and 60 pounds. When parents attend a field trip, they will be expected to be responsible for their own child and may be asked to assist with other children. In order for children to participate in field trips, permission must be given by signing the field trip portion of the Personal Profile and Release Form.

Parent Participation: All families of children enrolled at the Montgomery College Early Learning Centers are welcome to visit anytime during the regular hours of operation. Families are welcome to participate in any of the activities, whether special holidays, birthdays, or ordinary days.

Families have cooked with us, demonstrated musical instruments, explained their family celebrations of holidays, and talked about their jobs or hobbies with the children. If you have special interests you would like to share with us, please let the Center Manager or your child’s teacher know.

Behavior Management and Guidance: Montgomery College Child Care Services’ philosophy of guidance is designed to help each child develop self-control and responsibility for his/her own acts. The staff interacts with the children in a consistent, respectful, positive manner, guiding them in achieving those inner controls. Simple understandable classroom rules are established with each group of children and posted in classrooms. These rules are set to establish limits of behavior required for the safety and protection of the children.

Behavior management guidelines may be summarized as follows:
• Be kind to self and others
• Respect self and others
• Treat toys and equipment with care.

Children are made aware of expectations, inappropriate behavior and the resulting consequences. Likewise, behavior management is developmentally related to the child’s act and not out of proportion to the particular inappropriate behavior. Individual child guidance carried out privately, dealing with the child/children involved. Positive, functional statements are used when redirecting a child.

No child is subjected, under any circumstances, to corporal punishment inflicted in any manner upon the body. Guidance procedures are reviewed with every staff member, volunteer and intern when participation in the program begins.

When children demonstrate serious, persistent and or challenging behavior, teachers work will work together with families and other professionals to develop and implement an individual plan to support you’re the child’s inclusion and success.

In the judgment of the Center Manager, the Center may terminate a child’s enrollment effective immediately if the child’s behavior threatens the physical or mental health of him/herself or of other children in the center.

The Center strictly adheres to the discipline guidelines set forth by the State of Maryland Department of Education, Office of Licensing, Division of Early Childhood Education Childcare Licensing regulations. The regulations include the restrictions listed below:
1. There shall not be cruel, harsh, corporal punishment or any unusual punishments such as, but not limited to, punching, shaking, spanking or biting.
2. No discipline technique shall be delegated to any other child.
3. No physical restraints shall be used to confine a child.
4. No child shall be placed in a locked room or confined in an enclosed area such as a closet, a box, or similar cubicle.
5. No child shall be humiliated or subjected to profane language, threats, and derogatory remarks about himself or his family, or other verbal abuse.
6. Discipline shall not be imposed on a child for failure to eat, failure to sleep, or for toileting accidents.
7. Techniques of discipline shall not humiliate shame or frighten a child.
8. Discipline shall not include withholding of food, rest, or toilet use.
9. Separation, when used as discipline, shall be brief in duration and appropriate to the child’s age or circumstances, and the child shall be within sight and hearing of a childcare staff member in a safe, lighted and well ventilated space.
10. The center shall not abuse or neglect children and shall protect children from abuse and neglect while in the Center’s care.

The above discipline guidelines will apply to all employees of the Center.

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About Biting and Tantrums: Biting is a normal developmental behavior for young children. When very young children get frustrated, they may resort to behavior such as biting and tantrums. Biters will be given something acceptable to bite (i.e., teething ring, washcloth, dry toast, etc.) as the teacher says, “Biting hurts people; bite this instead.” Children will be encouraged to verbalize feelings and frustrations. The child being bitten will be taken care of immediately and encouraged to tell the biter that he/she does not like being bitten.

Children going through “no” stages and tantrum stages will be guided to understand that their feelings are okay, and that some of their behavior may not be safe or acceptable. Parents will be included in discussions and problem solving sessions so that adult responses to difficult behavior management will be consistent at school and at home and supportive of the child’s process of learning appropriate behavior.

Sometimes a child may have behavioral or emotional problems that prove very disruptive to the general program. If one-to-one supervision is required on an ongoing basis, to ensure the health and safety of the child or other children, parents may be asked to withdraw the child from the center. Referral may be made for therapeutic intervention.

Child Abuse: Center staff is mandated to report all suspected incidents of child abuse, neglect, or both by families, staff, volunteers, or others to the appropriate local agencies. If we observe a family member neglecting or abusing a child, Protective Services will be called.

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OUR BILLING AND ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES:

Registration Fee: A non-refundable registration fee is due and payable on the day the child is enrolled in one of the Montgomery College Early Learning Centers. The registration fee is paid upon entry into the program and thereafter on an annual basis in the enrollment anniversary month.

Minimum Enrollment: In keeping with the child’s best interests, a minimum weekly enrollment of two (2) half-days is required for each child. We have found that the transition is smoother for children and they feel more secure when they are in the Center frequently enough to allow for the development of relationships and routine.

Methods of Payment: Payment for childcare tuition may be made by mail to Montgomery College, Cashier’s Office, 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville, MD 20850 or in person at any one of the three campus Cashier’s Offices by check, credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or Discover) cash, or money order. The childcare tuition statement must be submitted with payment either by mail or in person in order to insure credit is applied to the proper account.

Payments may also be made online by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or Discover) via this website by clicking the PAY MY EARLY LEARNING CENTER BILL button on the menu above.

Billing: Tuition is billed monthly based on the number of Mondays in the month. Invoices for each upcoming month will be mailed to the parent/guardian during the second week of the preceding month and will include tuition charges, annual registration fee, miscellaneous charges, and any outstanding balances. Payment is due on the first of the month.

Payment for the initial enrollment month is due on the day of enrollment. Payments for each following month are due on the 1st of each month. If there is an unpaid balance after the 1st of each month, services may be terminated with one week’s notice. This includes unpaid parent portions of invoices for those receiving subsidies (e.g., Purchase of Care, Working Parents’ Assistance, and other grants.)

Failure to meet the financial commitments of this agreement will result in the immediate placement of any delinquent account with the College’s Office of Business Services for further collection in accordance with the College’s policies and procedures. Should this action become necessary, the parent/guardian will then become responsible for any and all attorneys fees and any other collection costs necessary for the collection of this debt.

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Tuition and Fees: A Tuition Fee Schedule is included in the Parent Enrollment Packet, which lists the current rates. Families may enroll for half-day (7:00 AM-12:30 PM) or full day (12:30-Closing) options. There will be a 10% discount of the total tuition bill for families with two or more children enrolled in the program. Extra hours care is only available to students, faculty and staff as space is available and as authorized by the Center Manager. A discounted tuition rate is extended to Montgomery College students, faculty and staff, and to employees of Montgomery County Public Schools.

Enrollment: The following forms must be completed and on file for each child before he/she may attend:
• Registration and Billing Agreement;
• All subsidy contracts and related forms, if applicable;
• Health Inventory Form;
• Maryland Immunization Certification Form;
• Lead Screening Addendum Form;
• Emergency Information Card;
• All About Me Form;
• All About My Family Form;
• Personal Profile and Release Form;
• Parents’ Schedule Form;
• State of Maryland child care consumer brochure acknowledgement; and
• Authorization for Medication Form (for sunscreen & others, if necessary.)

These forms will remain active until the family actually withdraws from the Center. It is important that all forms contain the most recent information. It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that the information is accurate and complete at all times.

Registration and Billing Agreement: Parents contract for a specific number of half-days or full-days per week. Monthly invoices are calculated by the week based on the number of Mondays in each month. All enrollments are effective on a Monday regardless of the day of the week the child’s attendance begins. Changes to the original contracted schedule may only be made as set forth in the following sections of the Parent Handbook.

Change of Contracted Hours: In order to change the contracted schedule for childcare, parents must complete a Status/Schedule Change Form under the following terms and conditions:

A. Half-days or full-days may be increased at anytime during a billing cycle with the Center Manager’s approval on a space-available basis. A Status/Schedule Change Form must be completed and submitted to the Center Manager for approval. Approved schedule changes must be listed on the Status/Schedule Change Form and will be charged at the extra rate until the next billing cycle. Beginning with the next billing cycle, the new schedule will be billed at the regular tuition rate.

B. Half-days or full-days may be decreased with two billing week’s notice. In order to decrease your schedule for the following month, a Status/Schedule Change Form must be completed and submitted to the Center Manager for approval. Any changes in billing status will be reflected on the following month’s invoice.

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Extra Days or Hours: As space permits, the Center Managers will be happy to schedule additional days (half or full) outside those originally contracted. Extra hours are available to student, faculty, and staff parents only. Parents must sign an Extra Hours/Back up Care Form that specifies the dates and extra days (half or full) that are used. Rates are listed on the Tuition Fee Schedule. These charges will appear as a separate item on the invoice.

Back-Up Child Care: It is the goal of Montgomery College Early Learning Centers to give support to families who may need short-term childcare in emergency circumstances. When space is available, back up childcare services are available. Enrollment for back up care includes completion and submission of the same forms that are listed under Enrollment in Section 6 of this portion of the Parent Handbook. Then, as parents need care, they contact the Center Manager who will schedule children on a space-available basis. The earlier the notice is given, the greater the chance we will be able to accommodate the child.

Withdrawal: When withdrawing from the Center, a Schedule/Status Change Form must be completed and submitted to the Center Manager a minimum of two billing weeks in advance of the withdrawal date. Tuition will be charged until the Center Manager accepts and signs this form. All withdrawals are effective on a Friday regardless of the day of the week the child’s attendance ends.

If you wish to reenroll, a new Registration and Billing Agreement must be submitted to the Center Manager for approval. Please note: Your child’s space will not be held for the period between withdrawal and reenrollment.

Late Fees: Centers will close promptly. Parents are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes prior to closing in to order allow time for communication with teachers regarding the child’s day. Parents will be charged a late fee of $25.00 for any time within the first 15 minutes past the Center’s closing time the child is picked up plus an additional $2.00 per minute for each minute after the first 15 minutes. This fee must be paid in cash before the child is allowed to return for her/his next scheduled day.

In the event that the Center must close due circumstances beyond its control or inclement weather, parents will be notified to pick up their children and be advised of the actual time the center will be closed. Parents who do not arrive at the closing time will be charged the closing late fee.

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Grievance Policy: Montgomery College Early Learning Centers make every attempt to offer the highest quality care to all children and families. We recognize that there may be occasions when parents have concerns about particular events, situations or staff. In this event, parents are encouraged to talk to the child’s lead teachers as a first point of contact. If they have tried this without satisfactory results, parents are encouraged to contact the Center Manager. If still no resolve, parents are encouraged to contact the Director of Child Care Services. The Director will then schedule meetings as necessary with appropriate parties to gather relevant information before deciding on a course of action. Parents will be informed, as appropriate within confidentiality requirements, as to the result of the Director’s inquiry and action taken. Should parents find this action unsatisfactory, they are encouraged to contact the Director of Auxiliary Services.

Again, our goal is quality care for your child and we encourage parents to bring their concerns to us so that we can work together to ensure that quality.

Termination of Services: Immediate Termination — The Center may terminate a child’s enrollment effective immediately if any of the following conditions arise:

1. In the judgment of the Center Manager, the child’s behavior threatens the physical or mental health of him/herself or of other children in the Center;

2. Tuition has not been paid by the due date on the bill;

3. The child is picked up late more than three (3) times in a semester; or

4. The child is ill when brought to the Center more than three (3) times within a semester, or the parent fails to pick up a sick child promptly (within the hour) more than three (3) times within a semester.

Termination with Two Weeks Notice: The Centers may terminate a child’s enrollment with two (2) weeks written notice to the parent/guardian if any of the following conditions arise:

1. Any of the conditions listed above under Section A (assuming the Center has not exercised its right to terminate enrollment immediately;

2. In the judgment of the Center Manager, the Center’s program does not meet the develop mental or special needs of the child;

3. Necessary items (such as all completed forms, clothes, diapers, food, etc.) are not provided as described in this Parent Handbook; or

4. Failure by the parent/guardian to comply with the terms and conditions of the Registration and Billing Agreement and this Parent Handbook.
No appeal is provided for termination of enrollment as set forth in the provisions of this section.

In the judgment of the Center Manager, the Center may terminate a child’s enrollment effective immediately if the child’s behavior threatens the physical or mental health of him/herself or of other children in the Center.

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Holidays/Closings: The Centers close when Montgomery College is officially closed and whenever basic services required by licensing regulations are not available due to circumstances beyond the Center and the College’s control. Tuition is NOT charged for the time the College is closed for its Winter Break (see Annual Child Care Center Calendar.)

Please note that these closings refer to Montgomery College campus closings and not to College class schedule closings. The Centers will be closed on the following holidays:
• Martin Luther King’s Birthday
• Spring Break
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day and the Friday immediately after Thanksgiving and
• Five (5) Staff Professional Days (dates will be posted in advance)

There are no adjustments in charges for any of the above holidays/closings as they are taken into account at the time rates are established. The Centers also close for the one week when MC is officially closed for winter break.

Inclement Weather/Emergency Closings: Following the cancellation policy of the College, the Centers will be closed when the College is closed for inclement weather or emergencies; e.g., snow, power outages, etc.

To determine the College’s operational status at these times, please use the following communications systems:

• Check the College’s Web site at http://www.montgomerycollege.edu or if applicable, log on to MC e-mail. A College-wide e-mail will be sent to announce closures or delays.

• Tune in to area radio or television stations, including Montgomery College Television, cable channel 10, in Montgomery County. Dozens of commercial radio and TV stations are also notified including: NBC Channel 4/WRC; Fox Channel 5/WTTG; Channel 7/WJLA; Channel 9/WUSA; and cable news Channel 8; Radio – WTOP (103.5 FM), WMAL (630 AM), WAMU (88.5 FM), WFMD/WFRE (99.9 FM).

• Call the College’s main phone number, 240-567-5000, to hear an updated message in the event of closures or delays.

In the event of an early closing, parents agree to pick up their child within one (1) hour of notification. There is no refund or credit against tuition charges for such closings.

Confidentiality: It is contrary to the privacy and legal interest of the Center and those served, to give out information regarding children and their parents. Such information must be held in strict confidence and may not be discussed with any unauthorized person outside of the Center. All staff members are expected to have respect for the professional privacy of the ELC families and staff. Inside the Center such information shall be discussed only when it would benefit the care and education of the children and the parents.

For families, our staff is expected to respect a family’s right to privacy and confidentiality regarding all health, behavioral and developmental records and information concerning a child. Various federal and state statutes; local ordinances; accreditation standards, and regulations protect individual rights to privacy and confidentiality. Families should not ask for personal information (e.g., telephone numbers or addresses) of other families for outside activities such as party invitations and/or play dates.

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CCS Billing Office Communication: Child Care Services (CCS) is a part of the Office of Auxiliary Services, a self-supporting unit of Montgomery College. The Office of Auxiliary Services is responsible for overseeing the Child Care Services billing and accounting functions. Questions concerning invoice charges or requests for other account information should be directed to the Child Care Billing Office at 240-567-5298.

CLASSROOM RULES: We cannot physically hurt other people or ourselves. We do our best to:
• Treat other people kindly
• Use our words when we are angry and upset
• Walk inside
• Use quiet “inside” voices
• Respect other people and their belongings
• Respect books and use them only for reading and enjoying
• Clean up our toys when we are finished with them
• Treat our toys with care
• Tell the teacher when we are going to the bathroom

BATHROOM RULES: We do our best to:
• Knock on doors before going into toilet
• Flush the toilet
• Wash hands after going to the toilet
• Use one (1) squirt of soap
• Use one (1) paper towel
• Turn faucet off with paper towel
• Use “inside” voices
• Keep water in the sink
• Use only the water we need

PLAYGROUND RULES: We do our best to:
• Keep gates closed
• Treat our friends with care
• Keep sand and sand toys in the sandbox
• Take turns with wheel toys
• Remember that wheel toys are for sitting on/in

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Closing Thoughts: We thank you for allowing us to play a special role in your family’s life. We take pride in providing high quality services to every child enrolled in our program and look forward to working with your family! Please feel free to speak to your child’s teacher, the Center Manager or the Child Care Services Director if you ever have any questions or concerns about the program.

Sample Daily Schedule of Activities:

The Montgomery College Early Learning Centers are a division of the College's Office of Auxiliary Services.

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