active kids handbook

8/3/2019 Active Kids Handbook

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Developing your child's love of learning

PA R E N T S HA N D B O O K

CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE


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A C T I V E K I D S C E N T R E O F E X C E L L E N C E P A R E N T S H A N D B O O K

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Welcome to

Welcome to our centre. Please read this information

caretully to assist you in settling your child into the Centre,

and to answer any questions you may have. If you require

more detailed information please do not hesitate to

consult with the Coordinator or a staff member. The

Centre's Policy Manual is available in the Parents

Information section of the Centre.

ContentsActive Kids Centre Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Our Philosophy For The Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Management Of The Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Parent Participation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Parent Workshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Parent Resource Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Settling Your Child Into The Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Details About The Centre You Need To Know . . . . .6

Enrolment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Priority Of Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Signing In And Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

All Parents/Guardians are required to . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Current Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Payment Of Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Child Care Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Dropping Off And Collecting Children . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Termination Of Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Grievance Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Our Childcare Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Centre Routines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Children's Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Programming To Meet Individual Children's Needs . .9

Children With Special Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Children Portifolios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Meals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Babies Bottles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

What to Bring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Other Relevant Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Sleep Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Nappies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Toilet Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

What Should Your Child Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Personal Toys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Special Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Birthdays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Supervision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Guiding Children's Behaviour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Health & Safety Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Hygiene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Immunisation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Exclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Unwell Children At The Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Management Of Unwell Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Keep your child at home if . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Asthma Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

My Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15



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Narwee 1

9153 8284

Narwee 2

9584 9513

Sylvania

9544 6269

Ermington9858 5703

Mascot

9669 3633

Homebush

9746 3812

World Tower

9262 9599

World Square9267 4799

Newtown

9551 2988

64 Penshurst Road

[email protected]

85 Penshurst Road

[email protected]

100 Holt Road

[email protected]

382 Kissing Point [email protected]

18-26 Church Avenue

[email protected]

40 Homsey Road

[email protected]

Suite 1101, Level 11, 87-89 Liverpool St

[email protected]

Level 1, 650 George [email protected]

159 Bedford Street

[email protected]

PickUp&

DropOff

CookedMeals

0-2Nursery

2-3Room

4-5Room

ClosetoTr

ainStation

OnsitePar

king

ExtendedHours

OutdoorPlayArea

QualityImprovement&AccreditationSystem

SchoolReadnessProgram

NappiesProvided

Active Kids Locations


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Our Philosophyfor the Centre is:ACTIVE KIDS PRE SCHOOL

PHILOSOPHY OF LEARNING

Our Centre recognises that all young children should have

the opportunity to experience a high quality of early

childhood education. It is therefore our aim to:

Provide an educational based environment formulated

on the needs and interests of the children.

Create a stimulating atmosphere for each child.

Create a safe, secure and trusting environment.

Treat all children equally regardless of sex, colour, race

or religious beliefs.

Promote self-expression through all areas of learning

e.g. language, music, art etc.

Encourage children to show creativity and individuality

in all areas of learning.

Provide opportunities for all children to create a

positive approach to themselves, each other and the

world around them.

Create on environment where children have freedom to

choose and explore in their area of interest and are

encouraged to excel in this area.

Encourage learning and discovery in a happy and

informal atmosphere.Provide healthy, well-balanced fresh foods throughout

the day.

Provide a stimulating environment whilst utilising the

large open space of the Centre.

Based on the theory that children learn through play, daily

routines encourage active involvement, meaningfulexperimentation and reinforcement through repetition.

Knowledge is acquired through interactive processes.

Physical knowledge is acquired through interacting with

the physical world, but most of what children learn is

acquired through interacting with other children and with

adults. Skills are learnt by trial and error, observation and

instruction, and they are developed through practice. The

activities planned and materials used are both child-

centred and teacher directed.

We teach a love of learning by catering for each child's

individual needs and by engaging children's minds in

activities that are rich in content relevant to them and their

own daily lives.

We seek to welcome and affirm the uniqueness of the

background of each child and his/her family. Our

educational program caters for individual differences

including those of home background, gender, cultural

differences and special needs.

Children are encouraged to learn to interact successfully

within their social setting. They are motivated to interact

verbally in a positive way and to be able to participatewithin the group with respect and care.

Children are seen as important ambassadors to our

centre and to the local community.


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Managementof the CentreTHE CENTRE IS OPERATED BY ACTIVE KIDS

CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE PTY LTD

Parental involvement is very important to ensure the

service is meeting family needs. Parents are also welcome

to join the Centre's Accreditation Committee which meets

from time to time to provide input into the re-accreditation

of the service. Parental involvement in this committee is an

excellent way to ensure the service is meeting a high

standard of care for all children in the Centre.

During the year the Centre organises informal social

events for parents at which you can get to know other

parents and the staff at the centre. You are encouraged

to attend these get together to find out a little more about

the Centre and to establish friendships with other families

that your child will meet at the Centre.

Parent ParticipationParents are our biggest support. Their encouragement and

any assistance, in whatever way, coming to a parent night,

collecting bits and pieces, help with fund raising, helping at

working busy bees, would be invaluable assistance.

You are encouraged to become involved with the

program of the Centre and your ideas and suggestions

will be greatly appreciated. We are always happy to have

people come into the Centre with interesting things to

show, sing, teach, make etc" especially activities of a

multicultural nature.

You can be involved by explaining your child's

temperament, stages of development and likes and

dislikes to the caregivers. Even though a parent's life is

very busy, we would appreciate a few minutes every

morning and evening as you bring and collect your child

to talk about how he/she is progressing. Tell the

caregivers the little things they need to know e.g.

changes in sleeping patterns, any development you

observe, the cold your child appears to be contracting, or

how an activity was enjoyed.

To give the children the best opportunity for development

child care staff and parents work hand-in-hand. We want

children to gain the best that is possible from our Centre,

so please do keep in touch and discuss your joy,

problems, concerns and feelings with the staff.

PARENT WORKSHOPWe conduct a number of Parent Workshops throughout

the year. The two common ones are:

1. Orientation Workshop - this is held to give parents an

opportunity to meet with the teachers and learn more

about our Pre School.

2. School Readiness Workshop - this is held mid year,

and provides parents a better understanding of

whether they think their child is ready for school or not.

PARENT RESOURCE LIBRARYWe have a small but effective Parent Library located at

the entrance of the centre. Parents will find take-home

brochures about nutrition, immunisation, health etc.

Books are also available for loan which cover similar

topics and include information which will help parents and

children prepare for school life.

SIGN IN AND OUTParents are required to sign in and out manually each day

and are also required to sign in and out on the computersystem each day using a 4 digit code [Computer systems

not available at all Centres). The computer system will

provide you with detailed information regarding your child's

day at Pre School. You will be able to print this report off

and take it home to read. Each child will have a locker for

their bag and a parent information pocket so we can place

your receipts, newsletters and any other information.

Settling your Child

into the CentreChildren all react differently to being away from theirparents, and we encourage you to remain with your child

for as long as you feel is necessary to ensure your child's

well being. We use a variety of strategies to help your

child settle into our centre.

We recommend that you bring your child for a visit of at

least an hour, prior to beginning care at the centre. This

will help to introduce yourself and your child to the staff

and other children and familiarise the child with the

playroom. Other visits can be arranged if needed. There

is no charge to the parent for these visits as the child is

still in your care.

A comfort toy or item belonging to you to look after are

good settling techniques. It is important to say goodbye to

your child when you are leaving even if your child becomes

upset, to establish trust that you will not disappear and to

reassure him/her of your return. Alert the staff of your

intention to leave, so they can distract your child.

Please telephone the centre during the day for

reassurance that your child has settled. Be aware that

some children settle quickly and others take longer ormay be distressed by group care. Our staff will assess

your child's emotional needs and discuss this with you.

Regular attendance also helps a child to settle.


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Details About TheCentre You Need

To KnowThe following information will help you to understand the

administrative requirements of enrolling your child and the

operational policies that you need to know.

On arrival you are required to:

Sign your child in on the sign in/out book.

Put a piece of fruit in the fruit basket.

Place bed linen in child's basket.

Label child's nappies and place them in the cupboard

at centre's were parents bring in nappies.Place child's bag in locker.

If you are running late to collect your child you must

inform the centre and you will be required to pay $10.00

for every ten minutes you are late after closing time.

Please remember written authorisation is to be given to

the centre if someone other than child's parent is to pick

up your child.

ENROLMENTShould you wish to enroll your child you will need to know

the following enrolment procedures.

You will be asked to complete an enrolment form

containing information regarding your child's health,

development, custody arrangements and emergency

contacts. You will need to name all persons who may

deliver or collect your child from the Centre. These

persons must be over 18 years of age. It is your

responsibility to ensure your nominated people are

responsible and available when required.

The details required on the enrolment form are needed by

our staff to help them take the best possible care of your

child. It is also a Licensing requirement. All information is

strictly confidential. If any of the details on the enrolment

form change, you are asked to advise the Coordinator

immediately.

At the time of enrolment you will be asked to pay your

first weeks fee + 2 weeks fees in advance and a non

refundable administration fee. You are required to fully

disclose any medical or health concerns relating to your

child, and agree to lodge your application with the Family

Assistance Office for Child Care Benefit within 28 days of

your child starting care.

PRIORITY OF ACCESSThe Commonwealth Government has set specific

priorities of access to child care services.

The Commonwealth Government requires the Centre to

provide access to the service according to the followingpriority of access. This means that when the Centre is full

those families who are third priority may be asked to alter

their care arrangements to allow a family with higher

priority to access the service.

First priority: Children at risk of serious abuse

or neglect.

Second priority: Children whose parents satisfy the

work/ training/study test.

Third priority: Any other child.

SIGNING IN/OUT

Signing children in and out of the Centre is a dailyrequirement. The following policy applies to all families.

Accurate attendance records need to be kept and

checked each day. Whoever brings your child to the

centre or collects your child at the end of the day is

required to record and sign the child's times of arrival and

departure. Signing IN and OUT sheets have been

developed for this purpose.

This is a legal requirement by the Licensing Board and the

Family Assistance Office. If you do not complete these

records you will not be eligible to claim Child Care Benefit.

ALL PARENTS / GUARDIANS

ARE REQUIRED TO:Initial attendance record daily to show when your child

starts care (time in) and finishes care (time out).

Sign or initial attendance records each time your child

is absent from care.

Inform your child care provider when you have used

your maximum absence days and provide documents

where necessary for days your child is absent from care.

Advise an increase in the number of maximum hours

you can get paid CCBAdvise if you are entitled to Special Child Care Benefit.

Advise the Family Assistance office when changes

happen that may affect your CCB.

CURRENT FEESOur fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Please see

centre Coordinator regarding current fee prices.

PAYMENT OF FEESOur Centre's operation is dependent on maintaining fees.

Please read the following information carefully. Fees must

be paid for two weeks in advance. Parents pay for a place,therefore payment is required whether your child attends or

not. Fees are payable on public holidays when your child is


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sick and when on leave. The Centre does not offer make

up days, however, extra days are available on request.

You are asked to pay your fees promptly to ensure the

viability of the service. You have two options when payingfees:

1. Direct Debit (fortnightly)

2. Credit Card Direct Debit (fortnightly)

At our other Centres fees are payable in:

1. Cash

2. Cheque

3. Credit Card Direct Debit

Receipts will be provided and put into your childs

pocket. Details of individual families accounts and all

completed forms are confidential and may only be

accessed by the family concerned and those Centre staff

who need to access the information.

Anyone experiencing difficulties in meeting their fees

payments can speak to the Coordinator who can make

mutually agreeable repayment arrangements. If your fees

are more than three weeks overdue and you have not

made arrangements to pay or have not kept to

arrangements made, your childs place will be cancelled.

Because we plan staffing rosters two weeks in advance,

based on bookings, we ask all parents to comply with our

withdrawal policy. If you wish to withdraw your child fromthe Centre you are asked to provide two weeks written

notice or pay the fees due in lieu of this notice. Any fees

paid are not refundable in cash but can be used in child

care valid for 12 months. This excludes the administration

fee. Families who use Direct Debit must complete a

withdrawal of Direct Debit form.

We dont provide make up days when your child is

Absent or sick/holidays.

Please inform the Coordinator in writing if your child is

going to be away for longer than one week. Any child not

attending the Centre for one week without notifying the

Coordinator, in writing, of the reason, shall be regarded as

having withdrawn, and the place will be cancelled.

Parents should notify the Centre if their child will not be

attending during their booked time, as soon as this is

known or at the very latest by 9.00 a.m. of the morning of

attendance.

CHILD CARE BENEFITAll families are now eligible for Child Care Benefit (CCB). You

can apply for this payment, which will reduce your child

care fees, at the Family Assistance Office. Your rate of CCB

depends on your estimate of your familys annual income,

which will be checked at the end of the financial year.

Alternatively, you can choose to pay full fees and claim

your CCB as a lump sum after the end of the financial year.

Copies of the Child Core Benefit application form are

available at the Centre. Please ask the Coordinator. You

must lodge your application within 28 days of your child

beginning care to ensure your child care Assessment

Notice reaches the child care centre in time to backdate

your entitlements to the time of beginning care.

You will be required to pay full fees until your benefit comes

through upon which time you account may go into credit.

Please ensure you provide a doctors certificate for illness.

The Centre is only able to reduce your fees on receipt of

your child care Assessment Notice. You will also be

asked to provide evidence of your childs immunisation

status to the Family Assistance Office.

CCB is paid for up to 42 allowable absence days, which

can be taken for any reason, for each child per financial

year, across all approved child care services. In addition

to this CCB is paid for approved absence days for

specific reasons such as illness and public holidays etc.

Please contact the Coordinator for more information.

Please note: The forms that you sign for the purposes of

CCB are legal documents, and we are asked to remindyou that giving false information is a criminal offense.

Call the Family Assistance Office on 13 61 50 to discuss

your circumstances and entitlements.

DROPPING OFF AND

COLLECTING CHILDRENOur primary concern is the welfare and safety of your

child. We therefore request that you comply with the

following requirements.

ARRIVING AT THE CENTRE

We request that children be handed to a staff member

upon arrival. There are two staff on duty at all times. And

that you sign in your child. Please keep to the attendance

times requested on your enrolment form as this enables

the Coordinator to compile accurate staff work rosters. If

you wish to change your times please speak to the

Coordinator. Please make sure your child is at the Centre

no later than 10am.

AUTHORISED PERSONS

The Centres primary concern is for the safety and welfare

of your child and will therefore only release your child intothe care of the custodial parent or authorised persons

identified on your childs enrolment form. Any changes to


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these authorities must be advised in writing to the Centre

as soon as possible. We request that you confirm who will

collect the child each day. If on unauthorised person arrives

to collect your child, the child will not be released until your

authorisation (preferably in writing) has been obtained. Youmust ensure your childs collection from the centre is

reliably organised, as uncertainties and irregularities can

cause anxiety for your child and the Centre.

LATE COLLECTIONS

If you are unavoidably detained and unable to collect your

child at the agreed time you must telephone the Centre

and advise of your expected time of arrival.

You will be charged a late fee and you will be required to

pay this fee on the Premises before collection.

If you need to arrange for another person to collect your

child you must provide full details about this person to the

Centre. If you have not contacted the Centre and your

child has not been collected 10 minutes after the agreed

collection time the Centre will attempt to telephone you, or

if this is not successful the emergency contact people

listed on your childs enrolment form, to arrange for their

immediate collection. If no-one can be contacted and your

child has not been collected 45 minutes after the centres

normal closing time the Local Police Station will be

contacted and asked to take responsibility for your child.

TERMINATION OF CAREIn extreme circumstances it may be necessary to

terminate a childs care.

Exclusion of children from the service will only occur after

all other avenues of communication and support have

been exhausted and when:

Professional advice confirms a child is in psychological

danger as a result of on unusually prolonged inability

to settle into care away from the parent.

A child puts the majority of children at risk through

inappropriate behaviour.The parent continually fails to observe Centre hours of

operation or fails to pay the required fee.

Parents / guardians are to ensure they give the

documented 2 weeks notice period in writing to terminate

care. If your child does not attend care up to the specified

leaving date, you are NOT entitled to CCB for that period

and will therefore be required to pay the full fee.

Example - Your termination letter states that your childs

last day will be Friday 27th February. Your child does not

come back to care after the 24th February. Therefore

from the 25th February to the 27th February the full fee

will be charged. You will NOT be entitled to CCB

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURESPlease let us know if you are unhappy with any aspect of

the service we provide for you and your child.

Should you have any queries, concerns or grievances

please do not hesitate to speak to our staff, as we remain

committed to ensuring that you obtain a fair and efficient

resolution to your concerns. All staff involved in

grievances handling treat all information as confidential.

This means that the name or identity of the person

complaining, and any private information, will only be

given to the relevant people.

When making a grievance please ensure that you follow

the following steps:


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1. Lodgement of grievance is taken by relevant staff

member e.g. Nursery complaint is recorded by Nursery

Head Teacher, 2-3 year aids complaint is recorded by

2-3year aids Head Teacher, 3-5 year aids complaint is

recorded by 3-5 year aids Head Teacher, Overallcentre complaint to be taken by Centre Coordinator

and passed on the Centre Management.

2. Staff have the ability and authority to discuss and

resolve the matter directly with the parent as quickly as

possible,

3. If the grievances is not happy with the staff member

assigned to take complaints they are then able to

check the management structure chart and make

contact with a senior manager.

4. Staff inform the grievances that the service is

committed to early resolution at a complaint. They are

given regular reports and follow up of the resolution,

5. Staff record their decisions and actions. If the

complaint is not resolved staff provide information to

the Coordinator, The Coordinator will then decide if

Management is to become involved.

6. Please complete the grievances form, If you have a

complaint or concern you may discuss your problem

with the relevant staff member or with the Coordinator,

If you feel the problem is not resolved you may take

the matter to the Operator for resolution, either

through the Coordinator or by writing directly to the

Operator.

Our child careProgramOur staff are supportive and encouraging, and

communicate with the children in a friendly, positive and

courteous manner to establish a warm and caring

relationship with each child in their Care. Each day the

staff member responsible for your child will discuss your

childs day with you. Please take advantage of this time

to discover your childs highs and lows for the day.

CENTRE ROUTINESThe activities that happen at the centre are built around

the daily routines. Children need routines to help them to

settle and feel comfortable in the Centre. Please discuss

your childs routines with their caregiver.

Routines are built around the regular events of the day i.e.

arrival, snacks/drinks, toileting/nappy change, main

meals, washing, dressing, sleeping and departure, and

take into account the developmental needs of individual

children, childrens attendance patterns, climate and

physical environment, the numbers and ages of children

within a given group, children with special needs, newchildren entering the group and parents expectations. A

copy of the routine is located at the entry to each room.

Group Times - Language group times include stories and

discussions, experiments, phonic activities, and maths

and science concept activities. Music/Movement group

times include singing, use of percussion instruments and

movement games.

CHILDRENS PROGRAMChildren who attend our Centre participate in a range of

activities that have been planned to meet their

developmental needs.

The staff are responsible for creating an atmosphere and

environment which is responsive to the physical,

emotional. intellectual, social and special needs of each

individual child and to the group as a whole and reflects

the philosophy and goals of the service.

The program is child centred, and takes a hands on

approach, with staff acting as facilitators who create an

environment and experiences which are stimulating, safe,nurturing and fun. The program will include indoor and

outdoor learning experiences, quiet and active times,

individual, small group and large group times, time for

individual staff/child interaction, individual and group

interests, childrens special needs, and be flexible enough

to allow for spontaneity and the unexpected.

The program is developed as a result at observations

made by the staff during the time the children are at the

centre. Children are encouraged in a positive and

supportive manner to explore their environment and try

new experiences.

You will find your childs program displayed in their

playroom, We invite you to have input into program

development especially in relation to multicultural issues,

music and storytelling, Any suggestions you have can be

put into the Suggestions box in the foyer or discussed

with your childs caregiver.

PROGRAMMING TO MEET INDIVIDUAL

NEEDS OF CHILDRENOur programme is based on the principle that the child

will learn in an environment that is stimulating with

experiences that will enable the child to grow physically,

intellectually and socially. Through a balance of structuredplay, explorational learning and group participation

children develop as whole and complete individuals.

Children in the centre will experience:

Quality and meaningful interactions with staff

Guided group activities which develop a sense of care

and respect for others as well as a healthy self image

Programs that are culturally appropriate

Programs that foster self-reliance and self-esteem in a

positive environment to safely develop the social

behaviours which lead to independence and self

control

Guidance in a positive way

A value of all children as individuals.

Programs will accommodate diverse abilities and ensure

that children are treated with-out bias regardless of ability,


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gender, religion and culture, In valuing and treating children

as individuals, it is important for child care programs to

take account of any support services available e.g. Ethnic

workers, Aboriginal support, speech pathologists, early

childhood intervention and other therapists.

CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDSOur Centre caters for children with special needs, Children

with special needs that cannot be catered for within the

usual day care routine, will be integrated into the whole

group with additional support from a supplementary

(SUPS) worker, Referral to the SUPS worker or other

professionals is made either directly by the parent, or by

the Coordinator after permission is given by the parent.

CHILDREN PORTFOLIOSEach child who attends the centre will have an individual

portfolio. The portfolio will consist of the following.

Parent letter

Individual child web

Childrens observations

Childrens work samples

Photos

Opening a well done portfolio is like opening a treasure

chest. Some items will bring a laugh or a smile, some

items will spark memories and some items will inspire

young learners to try new tasks or retry old ones.

MealsMeals form a significant part of the daily routine. Please

make sure that any food allergies, strong dislikes and

special dietary requirements your child might have are

recorded on the enrolment form and discussed with the

Coordinator.

The Centre employs an experienced cook who prepares

breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.

The menu is varied, balanced, nutritious and,

multiculturally based as well as being cost effective. The

weekly menu is displayed on the notice board in the foyer.

Ideas, and recipes are welcome. Please put your ideas on

the Suggestions sheet in the foyer. From time to time

recipes from the Cook will be printed in our monthly

newsletter.

Meals are appetising and provide variety in colour, texture

and taste. At meal times children are always encouraged

to help themselves to food and drink, and to feed

themselves. Meal times are treated as social occasions.

The staff always sit with the children during meal times to

interact with them, provide help when needed and set a

good role model for the children.

Where meals are supplied by the centre:

Centre will provide children with 50% of daily

requirements including meals from all food groups

Milk will be served dailyAll dairy products will be full cream

Soy milk will be provided by the centre whose children

require it.

Water will be available at all times. Room leaders to

allocate area for drinking cups and jugs

Parents will be advised of when the child

is not eating well

When children are on special diets, parents are

required to provide a copy of the diet (from dietician)

Children will wash their hands before handling food or

before eating meals or snacks

Food will be stored and served at safe temperatures

Staff will adhere to good hygienic practices when

handling food e.g. Wear gloves use tongs, wash

hands, wear regularly laundered apron/uniform, hair

tied back etc.

Children will not share food or utensils from

the same plate

Menu will reflect childrens cultural backgrounds

(refer to food and mealtime policy)

If your child requires a cup to drink from, cups are

to be brought to the centre empty.

Parents advice is sought on menu planning

Special occasions may be celebrated with culturally

appropriate foods

Parents will be invited to at least one food

occasion each year

Recipes for food served at the centre are

available to parents

Food preparation staff are encouraged to attend

a Food Preparation or Nutrition course

Food awareness activities will be included

in the program

Children will be encouraged to participate in hands on

experiences in food preparation e.g., cake making,

pizza etc.

Foods being served to children will be discussedwith them.


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BABIES BOTTLESWe take particular care to ensure babies bottles are

hygienically stored and cleaned after use. We ask parents

to assist us in this by complying with the following

requirements.

You are asked to ensure your babys bottles are fully

made up with formula or milk, and the childs name

clearly written on them. Please mark name on caps, tops

and dummies. It is a good idea to leave extra milk as

from time to time a growing babys needs change and

more milk is required.

WHAT TO BRINGItems must be clearly labelled with your childs name

A copy of your childs immunization record

A childs bagBottles - fully made up with formula, once a child is

having cows milk, the centre will provide the milk

Dummy (if required)

Spare clothes

A hat

A piece of fruit

A copy of your childs birth certificate signed by JP

Flat and fitted sheet for rest time

A copy of your babies typical daily routine as this will

assist staff in knowing when it is your childs feed &

sleep times.

Other Relevant

InformationSLEEP TIMESleep and rest times are another daily routine for the

children at our Centre. Please discuss your childs current

sleep patterns with their caregiver.

Children are encouraged to rest from about 12.00pm to

2.00pm. Some younger children will need to sleep, others

will read, play quiet games, and construct puzzles. Parent

wishes about their childs sleeping pattern will be adhered

to as far as possible. Remember, however, that in group

care there are many distractions and childrens sleep

patterns may be different. At no time will a child in this

Centre be forced to take a sleep. Babies sleeps are

according to need and routine.

NAPPIESFor children who require nappies, these will be provided

at our City Centres and Mascot Centre.

TOILET TRAININGIt is important that we work in partnership with parents in

meeting childrens toilet training needs. Consistency and

continuity is important for children learning to use the

toilet. Please communicate with the staff in the room your

child attends so they can follow the routines you have in

place for toilet training.

WHAT SHOULD YOUR CHILD WEAR?It is important that children are in comfortable clothes

that do not restrict their enjoyment or participation

at the Centre.

Please dress your child suitably for play activities in

clothes that you do not mind getting grubby with paint,

mud, sand or glue. We do provide aprons but clothes still

get stained. Children need to have a pair of shoes, and a

hat clearly marked with their name.

You will also need to provide an extra set of clothes in your

childs bag to change into should the need arise. We

recommend that at least two pairs of underwear are

included. Babies need at least two spare nappies. We have

spare clothes available. If your child goes home in day care

clothes we ask that you return them to the Centre.

Your childs bag and all personal items should be clearly

labelled with your childs name. This helps to minimise

loss of items. If your child is accidentally sent home with

something that does not belong to him or her, we ask

you to return it the next day.

PERSONAL TOYSWe understand that many children would like to bring toys

to the Centre, however sharing these with other children

can be a difficult concept for a child to grasp. We believe

it is better therefore to leave personal toys at home.

Please let your child bring a security toy only (i.e. dummy,

rug, sleep teddy etc). Ensure these toys are clearly

labelled with the childs name. No other toys are to be

brought into the Centre. Great distress is caused to

children by their own toys being lost, broken or playedwith by other children.

Sometimes children accidentally put Centre toys into their

bags and take them home. Please bring these toys back

and put them in the box provided in the foyer. It is very

expensive to have to keep replacing "lost" items.

SPECIAL EVENTSWe consider that special events which happen during the

year provide on excellent learning and socialising

opportunity for the children.

Programs will reflect the cultural differences of all families

using the service. The Centre will celebrate special events


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with the children that reflect the cultural heritage and

ethnic origins of children attending the service. The

following events are celebrated at the Centre each year:

Special Persons Day (i.e. Mothers day,

Fathers Day etc).Christmas.

Easter.

The Centre understands that some parents may not wish

their child to participate in some celebrations and

therefore notice will be given in the monthly newsletter of

forthcoming celebrations, so that parents may choose

whether their child will participate.

BIRTHDAYSChildrens birthdays are a special day that many families

would like us to celebrate.

If parents wish the Centre to celebrate their childs

birthday they may provide a cake for lunch or afternoon

tea. The staff will encourage the children to sing "Happy

Birthday" and will take a photograph to enable parents to

share in this special treat. Parents are invited to join the

occasion if they can.

Cake must not contain nuts as the centre is a nut-free zone.

Please note that if you plan a party at home, party

invitations are to be handed to the teacher to be placed

in the families information pocket. Parents need not feel

obliged to invite the whole group.

SUPERVISIONThe Centre will maintain high levels of supervision of

children at all times.

Staff will position themselves where they can see all the

children under their supervision, listen carefully to what is

happening and know the children individually so they can

anticipate their needs. Staff will join in the childrens play

and encourage them to try new experiences.

Children outdoors will be supervised in small groups for

safety, however children will be given opportunities for self

discovery and freedom of choice. Staff will judge whenchildren need an adult to facilitate play or will join in at the

childs request. Children will be regularly reminded of

safety procedures for fixed play equipment. Children will

be encouraged to try new challenges as appropriate.

GUIDING CHILDRENS BEHAVIOURLearning appropriate behaviour is part of your childs

social development. Our staff aim to help children to be

responsible for their own behaviour and to develop an

understanding of what is appropriate in different situations.

You are encouraged to discuss your childs behaviourwith the qualified staff in your childs playroom to ensure

consistent behaviour expectations between home and the

Centre. Limits to childrens behaviour will always be

clearly expressed in positive terms and reinforced

consistently in a developmentally appropriate way.

Children will be encouraged to settle their differences in a

peaceful manner. The staff will focus on positive

behaviour, providing praise and encouragement where

appropriate. Wherever possible problems will be

prevented before they arise by using methods such as

diversion and providing enough equipment for all.

LIMITS

We find the following limits necessary to protect the

safety and well being of every child and ask parents to

reinforce these with their child:

Respect for other people and their property.

Leaving the room only under adult supervision

or knowledge.

Walking only inside.

Children are discouraged from throwing sand and toys.

At no time will a child receive any form of corporal

punishment e.g. smacked, or be placed in a room alone,

made immobile, frightened or humiliated in any way, nor

will food or drink be withheld as a form of punishment.

If children consistently display unacceptable behaviour the

senior staff member in the childs playroom will ensure:

The expectations of the childs behaviour are realistic

and appropriate to their developmental level.

The child understands the limits.

There is no conflict between Centre and home

expectations.

The childs needs are being met.

The child has no impediments which may cause the

unacceptable behaviour e.g. dietary problems, poor

hearing, poor coordination, communication difficulties,

illness or emotional distress.

The child is not copying observed behaviour.


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Events at the Centre have not encouraged the

behaviour.

Consequences of the behaviour do not encourage

it to persist.

Strategies are consistently followed by all caregivers incontact with the child.

Biting and hitting are normal behaviours in the

development of most children, usually caused by lack of

verbal communication skills. These behaviours will be

dealt with using the same positive behaviour guiding

strategies that staff use to deal with other unacceptable

behaviours. Members of staff are always available to

discuss such issues with you and will work with you to

address any persistent behaviour problems.

ALTERNATIVE CARE

After the child has been given every chance to respond

positively and if all methods for to result in an

improvement in behaviour, the Coordinator will discuss

alternative care with the parent, in consideration of the

health and safety of other children in care.

Health and Safety

IssuesHYGIENEIn group care situations one of the most troublesome

problems is to control the spread of infections among the

children and staff.

The application of universal hygiene procedures will be

followed at the Centre at all times to control the spread of

infection within the Centre. Staff role model a high level of

personal hygiene at all times, and place emphasis on the

children learning and understanding why hygiene is

important. Hand washing is central to this system and

children will be introduced to washing their hands before

all clean tasks (i.e. meals) and after all dirty tasks (i.e. after

using the toilet) as soon as they are developmentallyready. (Please refer to the Health & Safety policy in the

policy manual).

IMMUNISATIONImmunisation of children who attend the Centre will help

to limit the spread of infection.

We encourage parents to immunise their children against

all diseases appropriate to the childs age. A record of

your childs current immunisation status will be kept at

the Centre. Children who are not immunised will be

excluded from care during outbreaks of some infectiousdiseases in accordance with the National Health &

Medical Research Council exclusion guidelines (on display

in the foyer), even if the child is well. This is to limit the

spread of infection and protect unimmunised children.

EXCLUSION

As a protection for all children and staff, the followingexclusion policy applies to all children enrolled in the Centre.

Children with infectious diseases will be excluded from

the Centre in accordance with the National Health &

Medical Research Council exclusion guidelines (on display

in the foyer). A medical certificate is required after

contracting diphtheria, hepatitis A, polio, tuberculosis,

typhoid and paratyphoid before your child can be re-

admitted to the Centre.

If your child is unwell at home please do not bring

him/her to the Centre. Children who have more than a

slight cold should not be brought to the Centre and may

not be accepted at the Coordinators discretion. Fevers,

vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained rashes are indications

that a child should not be brought to the Centre.

UNWELL CHILDREN AT THE CENTREThe Centre is not able to care for children who are ill. The

following policy has been developed to protect your child

and the other children attending the Centre.

It is important that the Coordinator or the childs caregiver

be notified if your child has been unwell or received an

injury since last attending the Centre.

In the case of your child becoming ill at the Centre, every

effort will be made to contact you to ask you to take the

child home. If your child has a temperature you will be

informed and asked for permission to give the child

paracetamol. Paracelamol will not be given without

written parent authority. The Coordinator has the

prerogative to call an ambulance or doctor if urgent

medical attention is required. Every effort will be made to

contact you or your nominated emergency contact

people as soon as possible. All medical and ambulance

costs are the parents responsibility.

MANAGEMENT OF UNWELL CHILDRENWhile it is our aim to assist parents as much as we can

with the care of their children, the responsibility of

parenting remains with the parents 24 hours a day. A

sick child will always require the comfort of their parents

within their own home environment.

Children and staff in child care settings are at an

increased risk of cross infection. Therefore it is essential

that an unwell child is quickly and appropriately cared for.

We recognise that on occasions a child may be mildly

unwell for only a short period of time. Finding alternative


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arrangements for child care can be stressful for parents

and often unnecessary if a child has only been ill for a

short period of time.

Therefore, parents and staff shall work together in

identifying the caring for unwell children, and recognisingwhen they are fit to return to the centre.

PROCEDURE

The following guidelines should be used to identify if a

child is unwell

Is the child...

Fretful or listless

Crying readily but not comforted easily

Crying constantly as a result of discomfort from

sickness

Reacting badly to medications

In need of one to one care

Uninterested in playing

Abnormally quiet and inactive

Uninterested in food

Irritable when disturbed

Hot to touch

Looking tired or flushed

Feeling cold or pale

Vomiting

Having 2 or more cases of diarrhoea

Have a rash

Sleeping at unusual times

In any of the above scenarios, the parent will be

contacted and required to take their child home

immediately. The centre does not have the staff resources

to care for children properly in these conditions.

If a child is unwell and unable to participate in activities

staff will:

Take the childs temperature using the thermometer. If

the childs temp. exceeds 37.5 degrees then the next

steps are to be taken.

Inform director and the parents of the child. If parents

can not be contacted, then contact the childs doctor.

Separate the unwell child from other children, until

child is taken home by parent

Monitor and record the childs temperature every 10

minutes and stay with child

Ensure that the parent has completed "permission to

administer panadol" in enrolment form. If permission is

granted proceed to first aid and administer correct

amount.

Fill out medication book

If permission for panadol is denied and temperature

continues to rise, call ambulance if parent is more than

10 minutes away.

If temperature continues to rise after Panadol has been

administered, run a tepid bath and bathe child for at

least 10 minutes, monitor and record the childs temp.

Every 5 minutes. If temperature continues to rise above

39 degrees and no contact has arrived call for an

ambulance. A staff member must accompany the childat all times and remain with child until parents arrive.

KEEP YOUR CHILD AT HOME

IF HE/SHE HAS:1. A high temperature or fever the day prior attending

school.

2. Conjunctivitis - the eye is red and inflamed with a

yellow pus discharge.

3. Bronchitis - This starts with a slight cough and a

temperature

4. A rash - any skin irritation you cannot identify and

has not been diagnosed by a doctor. If your child hasan allergic reaction or insect bites, please tell a staff

member.

5. Diarrhoea - watery bowel movements usually with a

bad odour. Keep your child at home for 24 hours

after the last unusual bowel movement

6. Impetigo - starts with small spots that crust over and

form blisters,

7. Vomiting - for 12 hours after the child has last

vomited.

8. A severe cold - sneezing or runny nose (especially if a

thick green mucus is coming from the nose).

9. No obvious symptoms e.g. tired, pale, irritable,lethargic, however seems very sick.

10. Any contagious disease that is still contagious.

Mumps, measles, head lice.

11. An infection for which the doctor has placed on

antibiotics - the child should not be brought in until

he/she has had medication for at least 48 hours.

12. Cries constantly as a result of discomfort from pain

or illness.

13. A need for one to one care - for whatever reason.

14. Foot, Mouth and Hand disease

15. Thrush

ASTHMA MANAGEMENTEach child will have a management plan, which is to

be updated every three months to ensure that

medication is appropriate and in accordance to their

asthma status. This includes details of their routine,

extra medications and the actions, which need to be

taken in any case where the childs symptoms have

increased.

Parental consent for asthma treatment must cover

administration for any extra medications required to be

given in the case of increased symptoms.

If childs asthma symptoms progress whilst at the

centre, parents will be contacted and/or child will be


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My Notes:


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THANK YOU FOR TAKING TIME TO READ

OUR PARENT HANDBOOK.

PLEASE SPEAK WITH THO

COORDINATOR IF YOU REQUIRE ANY

FURTHER CLARIFICATION.

www.active-kids.com.au


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