2011-2012 Child Care Guide

Child Care Guide 2011–2012

ymCa of south hampton roads

learnGrowthrive

ymCa Child Care It’s never too early to focus on the development of the whole person — in spirit, mind and body. We recognize the unique

character and temperament of each child, and support developmentally appropriate activities to foster social, emotional,

intellectual and physical growth. We consistently stimulate toddlers with music, movement, color, touch and language,

and challenge preschoolers with increasingly complex levels of play to enhance gross motor and cognitive skills. School-

age children learn problem solving skills after school with a variety of unstructured, free-choice learning activities.

At the Y, our staff takes the time to listen, guide, teach and play with warmth, patience, understanding and fairness. Each

child develops at his or her own pace, which helps to create an ideal learning environment — one of comfort, security,

encouragement and fun.

why Choose ymCa Child Care?Building Relationships

There are positive, warm and caring relationships between •the counselors and the children.

Children are relaxed, happy and have the opportunity to •play with one another and form friendships.

Counselors make families feel welcome and involved; par-•ent access, parent meeting, communication and special events are key.

Parents are viewed as partners to ensure the best possible •growth and development for their child.

Caring EnvironmentThere is plenty of indoor and outdoor activity space.•

Children have the chance to play outside each day.•

Gross motor activities offered daily using SPARK (Sports, •Play and Active Recreation for Kids).

The space is warm and inviting, reflecting the activities and •the interests of the children.

Children have the opportunity to play alone, in small or •large group activities while developing deeper friendships.

The schedule is flexible when needed to take advantage of •teachable moments.

The atmosphere is relaxed, allowing children to learn, play •and explore at their own pace.

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Counselors are trained in a variety of topics which include activ-•ity planning, safety procedures, licensing, child development and guiding children’s behavior. These skills are enhanced and updated through regularly scheduled trainings.

Evaluations of the effectiveness, responsiveness and overall •quality of the program are conducted regularly.

Counselor-student ratio of 1:15 exceeds state guideline of 1:18.•

Staff meet strict YMCA qualifications, have passed criminal •background checks and pass Child Protective Services check after careful reference checks are completed.

Effective Administration

Safety and HealthPlay equipment and surrounding areas are clean and free from •safety hazards.

YMCA staff follows appropriate sanitation procedures for food •and hand washing.

All counselors are trained and certified in CPR and First Aid.•

Children’s snacks meet USDA recommended guidelines.•

Procedures are in place to screen visitors and to ensure that •no one leaves with a child other than a designated adult.

Access and AffordabilityLocated in 8 YMCA of South Hampton Roads family centers and •28 schools.

Parents welcome at anytime—no appointments needed.•

Open Doors• financial assistance is available for those in need. We believe every child should have the chance to enjoy YMCA programming.

During free choice time, the following are available daily:

Arts & Crafts •

Music Activities•

Blocks and Construction•

Drama and Pretend Play•

Language and Reading Activities •

Science and Nature Activities•

Fun Activities

Simply put...quality matters.3

Did you know that 700 brain synapses are formed every second in a child age 3 and younger? Did you know that emotional bond-ing with parents and other caregivers during the early years guide the formation of those

synapses? Did you know that pretend play is critical to childhood? Did you know that 1 in 5 children in Virginia aren’t ready for kindergar-ten upon entrance? Did you know that 49% of the children starting kindergarten who don’t

know their ABC’s are from middle or upper class families? The YMCA of South Hampton Roads Preschool program can help fill in this gap so your child is ready for kindergarten.

The Y offers a safe, caring environment in which toddlers can begin the path of lifelong learning. This full-day program, available only at the Mt. Trashmore Family YMCA, uses Creative Curriculum for Toddlers which

emphasizes developing a strong self concept as well as social, intellectual and verbal skills. Children do not have to be potty-trained to attend this program.

YMCA Member: $297 semi-monthly Prospective Member: $344 semi-monthly There is an annual materials fee of $50. Morning

and afternoon snacks and weekly Swim Lessons

are included in tuition.

toddler proGram 2 year-olds

presChool proGram 3–5 year-olds

physiCally, your child entering kindergarten should be able to:

Balance on a board•

Go up and down stairs using •alternating feet

Run without falling•

Ride wheeled equipment easily•

Throw and catch a ball•

Coordinate eye and hand movement•

Pour with precision•

Use scissors with control•

Fasten and unfasten zippers and buttons•

CoGnitively, your child entering kindergarten should be able to:

Identify sounds in a sound game•

Listen attentively to stories•

Count materials with understanding•

Sort things by size, shape, and/or color•

Generate questions and seek answers•

Understand the function of print•

Tell stories in sequence•

Use left–to-right directionality•

Have a spoken vocabulary of •1,600-2,000 words

look what your kindergartner should be able to do:soCially, your child entering kindergarten should be able to:

Understand daily schedules•

Stay with one activity long enough •to complete it

Make transitions easily•

Demonstrate problem solving skills•

Get along with other children•

Take turns and share most of the time•

Have a special friend or friends•

emotionally, your child entering kindergarten should be able to:

Identify self by first and last name•

Adapt to new and different situations•

Show pride in accomplishments•

Use complete sentences of at least •five words

Initiate conversations and join into •existing ones

Express feelings in words•

Show responsibility for belongings•

Calm self when upset •

At the YMCA of South Hampton Roads Preschool program we offer full-day programs at two locations, the Mt. Trashmore Family YMCA and the Salem YMCA Family Center.

full-day preschool ratesYMCA Member: $526 monthly $263 semi-monthly

Prospective Member: $636 monthly $318 semi-monthly

Preschool registration begins May 2. There is an annual materials fee of $50. Morning and afternoon snacks and weekly Swim Lessons are included in tuition.

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early adventures & early disCoveriesEarly Adventures and Early Discoveries are collaborative programs offered by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and the Chesapeake and Virginia Beach City Public School Systems, respectively.

Funded by the Virginia Preschool Initiative, these programs are free to eligible children and serve those children who are continuously exposed to high-risk factors and situations

that are likely to have an adverse impact on their social emotional, physical and cognitive development. Kindergarten readiness is the thrust of the program.

To be considered for this program, you must: be a resident of either Chesapeake or Virginia Beach, your child must be four years old by September 30 of the current school year, and

there must be qualifying risk factors in your child’s life.

For school locations, registration and more information, call:

Chesapeake Early Adventures p 757 424 2229

Virginia Beach Early Discoveries p 757 467 8900

Designed to enrich the public school system’s half-day kindergarten in Virginia Beach, the YMCA’s Kindergarten Plus program reinforces academics and prerequisite skills including group behavior, listening to directions and learning to express needs.

The YMCA of South Hampton Roads is interested in the development of the whole child — physically, socially, emotionally and intellectually. To that end, Kindergarten Plus is designed to reinforce academics, the social development components of how to behave in a group (including listening to directions and

waiting for one’s turn), the emotional com-ponents of expressing needs while building self-awareness and independence, and the physical components of growing bodies needing to acquire more complex gross motor skills while refining and improving fine motor skills.

Our Kindergarten Plus program allows us to extend the learning opportunity that many kindergartners do not have the option to receive.

For more information, contact: Glen Harriott Hilltop Family YMCA p 757 422 3805

Alysson Baise Mt. Trashmore Family YMCA p 757 456 9622

Christina Williams Salem YMCA Family Center p 757 471 9622

Karla Creque Indian River Family YMCA p 757 366 0488

KinderGarten plus Kindergarten-age children only

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That’s why at the Y, we have 36 programs in the six South Hampton Roads communities and Elizabeth City, North Carolina so that parents can have peace of mind. Curiosity about the world comes naturally to children. In our programs, we strive to expose children to a variety of new and exciting experiences. In our state licensed, Before & After-School programs, the scheduling and pacing of the child’s day is up to the child. The program provides 5–12 year-olds with chances to unwind, explore and experiment, discover new ideas, work cooperatively in small groups and enjoy large group activities. Given the opportunity to make choices about what to do and when, builds their problem-solving skills while they learn to respect the dif-ferences and similarities within their own communities.

Serving over 2,100 children every day, our Before & After-School programs offer far more than just homework assistance – although we build in time for that as well. Children choose their own activities from a list of many options. These options, some of which are listed be-low, allow for individual time with friends, small group time and large group activities. Going outside is a part of every day!

art Self-expression and a greater sense of imagi-nation and creativity are just a few of the benefits children experience while enjoying art activities.

Character development In today’s challenging and complex world, children need reinforcement of positive values even when they’re away from home. YMCA after-school care takes character develop-ment seriously by incorporating the values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith into play, learning and social activities.

physical activity Building strong bodies is a part of the YMCA’s history. Strong bodies live longer. Strong bodies are healthy and have organs that work better. Our program incorporates SPARK (Sports, Play and Active Recreation for Kids), a fun program addition dedicated to im-proving the quantity and quality of physical activity for the children in our after-school programs. Daily SPARK activities, combined with daily outdoor activities, give school-age

children the time and the opportunity to exer-cise and strengthen their still-growing bodies. This is our contribution to countering our na-tion’s growing epidemic of childhood obesity.

Cooking A favorite among all children, cooking gives children a chance to “play with their food” while learning measurements and nutrition.

These core components give all children a va-riety of activities to choose from during their after school time with us. As with all YMCA programs, the activities are age-appropriate, recreational and fun!

literacy A core component of after-school learning, literacy is just one of the ways we help sup-port your child’s success in school without extending the school day with academic activities. Literacy includes reading, writing, speaking, gathering information, using information, thinking critically, under-standing others and expressing oneself. Twice weekly, YMCA KidzLit is offered to kids so that they can enjoy reading nonschool related

books. The program gets kids talking, read-ing and writing about the issues good books raise. Lessons are structured around discus-sions of how characters within stories act and the choices they make. Writing, drama and art activities reinforce and further explore the ideas raised.

math & science Math and science are fascinating to young children. YMCA KidzMath gives children an opportunity to play games that reinforce math skills being taught in school. Science activities are available so children can explore, experi-ment and discover.

homework assistance The YMCA’s homework philosophy is that it is “home-work.” We will provide a time, a place, tools, assistance and a reminder that their parents want them to get their work done; however, we will not withhold other activities until homework is completed. Children have been working on school work for at least the past six hours, so we believe they should have a “brain break.”

Before & after-sChool proGrams Kindergarten–5th grade

ymCa Before & after-school programs offer the following:

“In America today, 14.3 million children are alone and unsupervised in the hours after school.” — After-School Alliance

Before & After-School Child Care programming is offered on-site at various YMCA locations or at a variety of area schools. Additional care is often provided during the public school system’s half days, teacher in-service days, and spring and winter breaks. Schools that are served by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads are listed in the pricing guide on pages 8 and 15.

YMCA Before & After-School programs do not consider the use of videos, Nintendo or handheld games as quality programming. Therefore, it is our policy not to provide or offer those things to children. Exceptions may be made however, in inclement weather or under special circumstances.

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holiday Camp Everyone needs a little down time during the hectic school year. Planning for SOLs, meet-ing benchmarks and focusing on grades are important elements in the development of the whole child. When schools take a break from their instructional schedule, children need a safe, exciting place to get away from it all. The YMCA offers full-day Holiday Camp for an additional fee on many of the days when the public schools are closed. Holiday Camps

allow parents the peace of mind in knowing that their child is in a safe, caring environ-ment during those all important and neces-sary breaks away from school.

reaCh proGrams Enhance your child’s out-of-school learning with creative and fun activities through the YMCA’s REACH (Recreational Enrichment Activities at Club Hilltop) program.

The REACH programs create environments for children to immerse themselves in a variety of fun, engaging activities with a focused approach that will allow them a chance to continue their education beyond the books. These programs supplement the regular YMCA School-Age Child Care program at the Hilltop Family YMCA only.

For more information about the REACH program, call 757 422 3805.

middle sChool proGram 6th–8th graders “Teen Prime Time Live” is an after-school program that allows Middle Schoolers to do homework, be tutored, participate in sports and fitness activities, or just hang out in a safe environment. Students are supervised at all times by dedicated YMCA counselors.

The after-school day is filled with fun and age-appropriate activities. They include but are not limited to gym games, sports, swim-ming, group fitness, field games, free play, arts and crafts, Interactive Zone, values time, homework, skill development activities, snack and social interaction.

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2011–2012 weeKly rates School-Age Child Care

ChesapeaKe

YMCA Child Care programs are provided on-site at the following schools:

BM Williams Primary•Butts Road Intermediate•Cedar Road Elementary•Crestwood Intermediate•Georgetown Primary•Grassfield Elementary•Great Bridge Intermediate•Greenbrier Intermediate•Greenbrier Primary•Southeastern Elementary•Western Branch Intermediate•

franKlinAfter-School Care: Member $48 Prospective Member $73

Transportation to the James L. Camp, Jr. Family YMCA is provided from the following schools:

Capron Elementary•J.P. King Middle•Meherrin Elementary•Nottoway Elementary•Riverdale Elementary•Southampton Academy •Southampton Middle•S.P. Morton Elementary•

norfolKBefore-School Care: Member $46 Prospective Member $67

After-School Care: Member $58 Prospective Member $79

Before & After-School Care: Member $71 Prospective Member $92

YMCA Child Care programs are provided on-site at the following schools:

Ghent Elementary•Granby Elementary•Ingleside Elementary•Larchmont Elementary•Larrymore Elementary•Suburban Park Elementary•Taylor Elementary•Willard Elementary (After-School only)•

eliZaBeth CityAfter-School Care: Member $55 Prospective Member $70

Transportation to the Albemarle Family YMCA is provided from the following schools:

Camden Intermediate•Central Elementary•Grandy Primary•J.C. Sawyer Elementary•Northside Elementary•Pasquotank Elementary •P.W. Moore Elementary•Sheep Harney Elementary•

Crestwood Middle•Butts Road Primary•Carver Intermediate•Portlock Primary•Oscar Smith Middle•Sparrow Road Intermediate•Indian River Middle•Greenbrier Middle•Great Bridge Primary•Great Bridge Middle•

Deep Creek Central•Hickory Elementary•Hickory Middle•Western Branch Primary•Hugo Owen Middle•

Chesapeake School-Age Child Care is willing to open a center at any school in the city that has an enrollment of 15 students or more.

Transportation to YMCA Child Care programs at the locations listed on the left is provided from the following schools:

Register early to save! Take advantage of these savings on the $50 materials fee. May 2-15: $10 materials fee; May 16–last day of school: 1/2 off materials fee

After-School Care only: Member & Prospective Member $65

portsmouthBefore-School Care: Member $40 Prospective Member $48 After-School Care: Member $50 Prospective Member $58 Before & After-School Care: Member $60 Prospective Member $68 Registration Fee: May 1–September 1 $25

YMCA Child Care programs are provided on-site at the following locations:

Effingham Street Family YMCA•Mt. Hermon Center•

Transportation to the Effingham Street Fam-ily YMCA School-Age Child Care program is provided from the following schools:

Brighton Elementary•Victory Elementary•Craddock Middle•

Douglass Park Elementary•Emily Spong Center•James Hurst Elementary•John Tyler Elementary•Lakeview Elementary•Parkview Elementary (in zone)•Westhaven Elementary•

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please complete all blanks on this form. incomplete enrollment forms cannot be accepted.According to the minimum standards put forth by the Commonwealth of Virginia, we are unable to care for your child until all required paperwork is submitted.

Child’s information:

Child’s Full Name Nickname

Address

City State Zip Home Phone

School Grade Entering Age Date of Birth

Other Schools/Programs Concurrently Attending Gender Male Female

parent and medical information: In the event of an emergency, please number, in order of priority (1–6), which phone to contact.

Mother’s Name Cell Phone/Pager Priority

Address

City State Zip Home Phone Priority

Place of Employment Work Phone Priority

Father’s Name Cell Phone/Pager Priority

Address

City State Zip Home Phone Priority

Place of Employment Work Phone Priority

Doctor’s Name Doctor’s Phone

Medical Insurance Provider Policy #

emergency names, addresses and phone numbers of two people to be called in the event that we cannot reach either parent:

Emergency Contact Name Cell Phone/Pager

Address

City State Zip Home Phone

Emergency Contact Name: Cell Phone/Pager

Address

City State Zip Home Phone

authorized pickup:

authorized persons for pickup, in addition to emergency contacts

(continued on next page)

Child Care appliCation

vehiCle ConduCt rulesChildren must follow these basic safety rules while being transported. Transportation is a privilege and should be treated that way.Aparentwillbenotifiedandaskedtodiscussproperbehaviorwithhis/herchildwhenthefirstinfractionoccurs.Ifthereis a second infraction, all transportation services will be denied for a minimum of two days.

Nofighting,swearingorabusivebehavior.1. Each child must remain seated properly with seat belts on at all times (when available on vehicle).2. Each child can not have any part of his/her body out of the vehicle.3. No eating or drinking in the vehicle.4. Potentially dangerous actions will not be tolerated.5.

statement of authoriZationMy child has permission to be transported by a YMCA vehicle and to participate in all YMCA program activities and related 1. fieldtrips.

My child has permission to participate in swimming activities. 2. please provide a detailed statement regarding your child’s swimming skills (Mandatory licensing regulation 560.B) ________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The YMCA agrees to notify the parent/guardian whenever the child becomes ill. The parent/guardian agrees to pick up the 3. child within 30 minutes of receiving the call that your child is ill. (a temperature of over 100°f, recurring vomiting/diarrhea or a communicable disease would require exclusion from the ymCa.)

The parent/guardian authorizes the YMCA to obtain immediate care if any emergency occurs when she/he cannot be 4. located immediately. I understand that in an emergency, my child may be transported in a private vehicle.

The parent authorizes the application of sunscreen for his or her child by YMCA staff. 5. (Please note any adverse reaction to sunscreen of which you may be aware.)

The parent authorizes the application of insect repellent for his or her child by YMCA staff. 6. (Please note any adverse reaction to insect repellent of which you may be aware.)

The parent agrees to inform the YMCA Child Care staff/director within 24 hours or the next business day if their child 7. oranyotherimmediatehouseholdmemberhasdevelopedanyreportablecommunicabledisease,asdefinedbytheStateBoard of Health, except for life-threatening diseases which must be reported immediately.

I have been informed of my YMCA Child Care program’s Emergency Preparedness Plan.8.

By signing below, you are authorizing all of the above.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

model releaseIf you do NOTconsentfortheuseofphotographsordigitalimagesofyourchildinanyprinted/filmedmaterialforpromotionsofthe YMCA of South Hampton Roads, please sign here.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

parent statement of understandinGthe following information is important for the safety and protection of your child. please read this information and sign below.

I understand that my weekly tuition is due by 6pm on the Wednesday before each week of care. Payments made after this deadline will be •assessed an additional $15.

Iunderstandthatmyreceiptsshouldbekeptasarecordforfilingtaxes.• The YMCA will not provide a year-end tax statement.

I understand that my child must be picked up by • 6pm. I will be charged $15 for each 15-minute interval past 6pm.

I understand that I am not to leave my child at the YMCA or program site unless a YMCA Child Care staff member or volunteer is there to •receive and supervise my child.

I understand that it is my responsibility to sign my child in upon arrival in the morning and sign my child out before leaving in the afternoon. •sign-in/sign-out sheets are available as you enter the program. there must be an exchange of responsibility from one adult to another, not from a child to staff. all persons signing children in/out must be at least 18 years of age. the ymCa cannot release minors to minors. (See other pick-up provisions in Parent Handbook.)

I understand that my child will not be allowed to leave the program with an unauthorized person. • any person authorized to pick up my child must be listed on this form. authorization by telephone will not be accepted.I understand that YMCA staff and volunteers are not allowed to babysit or transport children at any time outside the YMCA facilities and •program. if a violation of this policy is discovered, the ymCa will take immediate disciplinary action toward staff and volunteers.I understand that by state law, the YMCA is mandated to report any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities •for investigation.

I am an adult over 18 years and wish to have my child participate in YMCA of South Hampton Roads Child Care programs. I understand •that even when every reasonable precaution is taken, accidents can sometimes happen. Therefore, in exchange for allowing my child to participate in YMCA Child Care, I understand and expressly acknowledge that I, for myself and for anyone entitled to act on my behalf, waive and release the YMCA, sponsors, representatives and successors from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising out of my participation in activities at or sponsored by the YMCA. I further agree to indemnify and save harmless the YMCA from any claims or demands arising out of any such injuries or losses. I understand that this release includes any claims based on negligence, action or inaction of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, its staff, directors, members and guests. I have read, understand and am voluntarily signing this authorization and release.

i have read and understand the statements above regarding ymCa policies and procedures.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

i have received a copy of the ymCa parent handbook.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

i have provided a copy of my child’s physical and immunization records along with this form.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

additional information:

School and Child Care Centers previously attended

Are there any special needs, medical conditions, birth marks, and/or allergies that we should be aware of?

What are the symptoms and action to be taken if any?

we’d like to email you about upcoming events:

Email address

are you a member of the ymCa? YMCA Member Prospective Member

YMCA Family Center Membership Number pool rulesThe following rules are in place to ensure your child’s safety while enjoying a fun swim experience.

No rough horseplay, running, 1. pushing or dunking will be allowed.No abusive language.2. The lifeguard has the right to 3. dismiss anyone who is careless

vehiCle ConduCt rulesChildren must follow these basic safety rules while being transported. Transportation is a privilege and should be treated that way.Aparentwillbenotifiedandaskedtodiscussproperbehaviorwithhis/herchildwhenthefirstinfractionoccurs.Ifthereis a second infraction, all transportation services will be denied for a minimum of two days.

Nofighting,swearingorabusivebehavior.1. Each child must remain seated properly with seat belts on at all times (when available on vehicle).2. Each child can not have any part of his/her body out of the vehicle.3. No eating or drinking in the vehicle.4. Potentially dangerous actions will not be tolerated.5.

statement of authoriZationMy child has permission to be transported by a YMCA vehicle and to participate in all YMCA program activities and related 1. fieldtrips.

My child has permission to participate in swimming activities. 2. please provide a detailed statement regarding your child’s swimming skills (Mandatory licensing regulation 560.B) ________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The YMCA agrees to notify the parent/guardian whenever the child becomes ill. The parent/guardian agrees to pick up the 3. child within 30 minutes of receiving the call that your child is ill. (a temperature of over 100°f, recurring vomiting/diarrhea or a communicable disease would require exclusion from the ymCa.)

The parent/guardian authorizes the YMCA to obtain immediate care if any emergency occurs when she/he cannot be 4. located immediately. I understand that in an emergency, my child may be transported in a private vehicle.

The parent authorizes the application of sunscreen for his or her child by YMCA staff. 5. (Please note any adverse reaction to sunscreen of which you may be aware.)

The parent authorizes the application of insect repellent for his or her child by YMCA staff. 6. (Please note any adverse reaction to insect repellent of which you may be aware.)

The parent agrees to inform the YMCA Child Care staff/director within 24 hours or the next business day if their child 7. oranyotherimmediatehouseholdmemberhasdevelopedanyreportablecommunicabledisease,asdefinedbytheStateBoard of Health, except for life-threatening diseases which must be reported immediately.

I have been informed of my YMCA Child Care program’s Emergency Preparedness Plan.8.

By signing below, you are authorizing all of the above.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

model releaseIf you do NOTconsentfortheuseofphotographsordigitalimagesofyourchildinanyprinted/filmedmaterialforpromotionsofthe YMCA of South Hampton Roads, please sign here.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

parent statement of understandinGthe following information is important for the safety and protection of your child. please read this information and sign below.

I understand that my weekly tuition is due by 6pm on the Wednesday before each week of care. Payments made after this deadline will be •assessed an additional $15.

Iunderstandthatmyreceiptsshouldbekeptasarecordforfilingtaxes.• The YMCA will not provide a year-end tax statement.

I understand that my child must be picked up by • 6pm. I will be charged $15 for each 15-minute interval past 6pm.

I understand that I am not to leave my child at the YMCA or program site unless a YMCA Child Care staff member or volunteer is there to •receive and supervise my child.

I understand that it is my responsibility to sign my child in upon arrival in the morning and sign my child out before leaving in the afternoon. •sign-in/sign-out sheets are available as you enter the program. there must be an exchange of responsibility from one adult to another, not from a child to staff. all persons signing children in/out must be at least 18 years of age. the ymCa cannot release minors to minors. (See other pick-up provisions in Parent Handbook.)

I understand that my child will not be allowed to leave the program with an unauthorized person. • any person authorized to pick up my child must be listed on this form. authorization by telephone will not be accepted.I understand that YMCA staff and volunteers are not allowed to babysit or transport children at any time outside the YMCA facilities and •program. if a violation of this policy is discovered, the ymCa will take immediate disciplinary action toward staff and volunteers.I understand that by state law, the YMCA is mandated to report any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities •for investigation.

I am an adult over 18 years and wish to have my child participate in YMCA of South Hampton Roads Child Care programs. I understand •that even when every reasonable precaution is taken, accidents can sometimes happen. Therefore, in exchange for allowing my child to participate in YMCA Child Care, I understand and expressly acknowledge that I, for myself and for anyone entitled to act on my behalf, waive and release the YMCA, sponsors, representatives and successors from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising out of my participation in activities at or sponsored by the YMCA. I further agree to indemnify and save harmless the YMCA from any claims or demands arising out of any such injuries or losses. I understand that this release includes any claims based on negligence, action or inaction of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, its staff, directors, members and guests. I have read, understand and am voluntarily signing this authorization and release.

i have read and understand the statements above regarding ymCa policies and procedures.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

i have received a copy of the ymCa parent handbook.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

i have provided a copy of my child’s physical and immunization records along with this form.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

additional information:

School and Child Care Centers previously attended

Are there any special needs, medical conditions, birth marks, and/or allergies that we should be aware of?

What are the symptoms and action to be taken if any?

we’d like to email you about upcoming events:

Email address

are you a member of the ymCa? YMCA Member Prospective Member

YMCA Family Center Membership Number pool rulesThe following rules are in place to ensure your child’s safety while enjoying a fun swim experience.

No rough horseplay, running, 1. pushing or dunking will be allowed.No abusive language.2. The lifeguard has the right to 3. dismiss anyone who is careless

ymCa Kids for CharaCter pledGe

For offi ce use only—FormofIdentityVerification

Place of Birth Date of Birth

BirthCertificateNumber Date Issued

Date Child Entered Care Date Child Withdrew from Care

payment informationDate

Total paid

Receipt #

Received by (staff name)

Proofofchild’sidentityandagemayincludeacertifiedcopyofthechild’sbirthcertificate,birthregistrationcard,notificationofbirth(hospital,physicianormidwife record), passport, copy of the placement agreement or other proof of the child’s identity from a child placement agency, record from a public school inVirginiaorcertificationbyaprincipalorhisdesigneeofapublicschoolintheU.S.thatacertifiedcopyofthechild’sbirthrecordwaspreviouslypresented.Viewing the child’s proof of identity is not necessary when the child attends a public school in Virginia and the YMCA assumes responsibility for the child directly from the school (i.e. after-school program) or the YMCA transfers responsibility of the child directly to the school (i.e. before-school program). While programs are not required to keep the proof of the child’s identity, documentation of viewing this information must be maintained for each child.

Semi-annual, written or verbal communication on your child’s development, behavior will be provided to you on _______________________ and _______________________.

Parent Nights scheduled on _______________________ and _______________________.

notes:

Rev 04/11

i pledge to be a kid for character.

I will be worthy of trust.•

I will be respectful and responsible, doing what I must.•

I will show that I care for those around me.•

I will always do my share.•

I will believe in myself.•

Child’s Signature Date

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suffolK

virGinia BeaCh

Before-School Care: Member $43; Prospective Member $66 After-School Care: Member $58; Prospective Member $81 Before & After-School Care: Member $68; Prospective Member $91

Transportation to the Suffolk Family YMCA School-Age Child Care programs is provided from the following schools:

Half-Day Kindergarten Before & After-School Care: Member $100; Prospective Member $125 After-School Care: Member $85; Prospective Member $110

Full-Day Kindergarten–5th Grade Before & After-School Care: Member $75; Prospective Member $100 Before-School Care: Member $40; Prospective Member $65 After-School Care: Member $65; Prospective Member $90

6th–8th Grade Before-School Care: Member $45; Prospective Member $70 After-School Care: Member $40; Prospective Member $65 Before & After-School Care: Member $65; Prospective Member $90

Transportation is provided to/from the Hilltop Family YMCA for the following schools:

Kindergarten–5th Grade• AlantonElementary• BirdneckElementary• CookeElementary• FriendsSchool• JohnB.DeyElementary• KingsGrantElementary• LinkhornElementary*• SeatackElementary• TrantwoodElementary

6th–8th Grade• GreatNeckMiddle• LynnhavenMiddle*• VirginiaBeachMiddle

*VirginiaBeachSchoolTransportation**Musthavefivechildrenenrolledtopickup from this school † No half-day kindergarten care

Transportation is provided to the Indian River Family YMCA from the following schools: (after-school only)

Kindergarten–5th Grade• CentervilleElementary• CollegeParkElementary• FairfieldElementary**• ProvidenceElementary**• TallwoodElementary• WoodstockElementary*

6th–8th Grade• BrandonMiddle• KempsvilleMiddle

Transportation is provided to/from the Salem YMCA Family Center for the following schools:• GlenwoodElementary• LandstownElementary**• NewCastleElementary*• NorthLandingElementary**• RosemontForestElementary**• SalemElementary

6th–8th Grade• SalemMiddleSchool(aftershoolonly)

Transportation is provided to/from the Mt. Trashmore Family YMCA for the following schools:

Kindergarten–5th Grade*Careisprovidedintheafternoononly for half-day kindergarten.

• ArrowheadElementary• KempsvilleMeadows• KingstonElementary• LynnhavenElementary• MalibuElementary• OldDonationCenter*†• PointO’ViewElementary• ThaliaElementary• WhiteOaksElementary†• WindsorOaksElementary†• WindsorWoodsElementary*

6th–8th Grade• IndependenceMiddle*• LarkspurMiddle• PlazaMiddle

Kindergarten–5th Grade• DriverElementary• Elephant’sForkElementary• IsleofWrightAcademy• KilbyShoresElementary• MacBennElementary• Mt.ZionElementary

• NansemondParkway Elementary

• OaklandElementary

6th–8th Grade• ForestGlenMiddle

(after-school only)• KingsForkMiddle

• CreeksideElementary• DriverElementary• HillpointElementary• KilbyShoresElementary• MacBennElementary• Mt.ZionElementary

• NansemondParkway Elementary

• NorthernShoresElementary

YMCA Child Care programs are provided on-site at the following schools:

School Site Child Care pricing: Before-School Care: Member $24/week After-School Care: Member $39/week Before & After Care: Member $63/week

2011–2012 weeKly rates School-Age Child Care

Register early to save! Take advantage of these savings on the $50 materials fee. May 2-15: $10 materials fee; May 16–last day of school: 1/2 off materials fee

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ymCa of south hampton roads parent handBooKTHE YMCA OF SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS CHILD CARE staff welcomes you and your child. Our intent is to make this a happy and safe experience for your child.TheYMCAisthelargestnonprofitchildcareproviderwithahistoryofstability built on basic Judeo-Christian principles and morals. Our services extend throughout the community reaching children of varied ethnic, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Our PURPOSE in providing quality child care is to support parents in their desire for children to grow to their fullest potential. Providing a safe environment, meeting their need for challenge, stimulation and ideas, and surrounding them with people who know how to listen will help achieve that goal. Each child has talents and skills to develop, energy to put to use, and huge reservoirs of creativity that need to be encouraged.

YMCA CHILD CARE HOURS OF OPERATION

Y-Preschool is open from 6:30am until 6pm (6am at Mt. Trashmore), Monday through Friday, with the following exceptions:

•LABORDAY •MEMORIALDAY •4thofJULY •THANKSGIVINGDAY+DAYAFTER •CHRISTMASEVE •CHRISTMASDAY •NEWYEAR’sEVEDAY •NEWYEAR’sDAY

*ChristmasDay2011closingwillbeobservedonMonday,12/26/11.

The Y-School Age program is open from 6:30am (6:00am at Suffolk, Hilltop and Mt. Trashmore and from 7:00am at Norfolk schools) to the beginning of the school day and from the closing of the school day until 6:00pm during all 180 school days. It may be necessary to close the centers on other days at the program director’s discretion. Proper notice will be given.

**Ondayswhenschoolisclosed(teacherworkdays&otherholidays not mentioned above), care is available during normal Child Care hours at each center, and requires an additional fee.

The structure of the YMCA includes a volunteer board of directors that is responsibleforthefinancialstabilityoftheorganizationandallpolicymaking.The policies that the board creates are carried out by a group of paid-professional staff.

The ORGANIZATIONAL CHART for the paid staff is as follows:

President and CEO of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads Senior-Vice President of Operations

Director of Child Care Services Executive Director (branch)

Child Care Director Site Director

Teacher/Counselor

ADMISSION POLICIES The YMCA of South Hampton Roads Y-Child Care program admits children 2-12 years of age. Children of any race, color, religion, sex, and national and ethnic origin are granted all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available at the school. The YMCA of South Hampton Roads will address physically challenged and special needs children on a per request basis with the hope that we can serve all children who come to us. The YMCA of South Hampton Roads does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its personnel and admissions policies. It is our hope to have a cultural diverse population within our staff, participants and programs. Licensing standards mandate that child care staff see and record the state ID number of your child’s original birth certificateorpassport.Please bring it at the time you register.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TheYMCAofSouthHamptonRoadsisabletoprovidefinancialassistancebased on ability to pay. This requires completing an “Open Doors” scholarship application accompanied by proof of income (no less than two check stubs and a copy of your most recent year’s 1040’s and two recent check stubs). You must pay the stated amount granted on a timely basis or the assistance may be cancelled. All scholarships are based on availability of scholarship funds. “Open Doors” applications are available at the Member Services desk in each center. Please return this information to the branch Child Care Director. Eligibility will be determined promptly.

APPLICATION & IMMUNIZATION Allparentsmustfilloutthechildapplicationformprovidedandreturnitbeforethefirstdayoftheprogram. These information sheets must be accompanied by a copy of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s physical form, which must be signed by your physician.

IMMUNIZATIONS-Section 22.1-271.2 of the Code of Virginia requires that; “documentation of all immunizations received be obtained prior to each child’s admission to a child care center required to be licensed by the Commonwealth.”

Exception: “When a center is located in the same building where a child attends school and the child’s record has a statement verifying the school’s possession of the health record, the center is not required to maintain a duplicate of the school’s health records for the child, provided the school’s records are accessible during the center’s hours of operation.”

PAYMENT POLICY Program FEES are due on a timely basis. Program fees are due in advance of service. Weekly fees are due the Wednesday prior to the upcoming week. Preschool program fees are due on the 1st and the 15th. Cash will not be accepted at school locations.

Y-School Age payments are based on 180-day school calendar and divided equally into 38 weekly payments. Full payment is due each week whether or not your child attends the program every day. Few of the operating costs of the facility are eliminated when a particular child is absent; we are prepared for each child, each day, whether the child attends or not. Because of the aforementioned, there will be no refunds for days absent. An additional daily fee is charged for the days when your child attends holiday camp.

Fees may vary slightly from city to city. There is a “second-child discount” (except in Chesapeake) of 10% that applies when both children are attending the same session and no other discount has been applied.

An annual • materials fee of $50 is common to all branches and is nonrefundable.

Y-School Age will disenroll your child if he or she is absent for more than •two weeks without payment.

Ifyouarewithdrawingyourchildfromourprogram,atwo-weeknotification•is required.

ADDITIONAL FEES POLICY Tuition is due by 6pm on the Wednesday before each week of care. Preschool program fees are due on the 1st and the 15th. Payments made after this deadline will be assessed an additional $15 late fee. This fee will be added to your account for each week your payment is tardy. Fees must be paid on time or your child may be removed from the program. If fees become more than two weeks tardy, your child may not return to the program until the balance is paid. Payments may be made by cash, check, credit card or automatic bank draft.

If your check or draft is returned to us for any reason, a $25 RETURNED CHECK FEE will be assessed. If more than two checks are returned, the YMCA will be unable to accept your personal checks. At that time, all future program fees must be paid in cash or money order.

NO TUITION CREDIT IS GIVEN FOR SCHEDULED SCHOOL HOLIDAYS, SICKNESS OR INCLEMENT WEATHER CLOSINGS!

SIGN-IN/SIGN-OUT Parents are expected to sign their children in upon ARRIVAL in the morning and sign them out before LEAVING in the afternoon. There is a SIGN-IN/SIGN-OUT pre-printed sheet available as you come into the program. Please get into the habit of taking this DAILY REQUIRED step. We cannot be held responsible for your child if we are uncertain of his/her presence. There must be an exchange of responsibility from one adult to another. Not from a child to a staff. All persons signing children in/out must be at least 18 years of age. We cannot release minors to minors!

AUTHORIZATION TO PICK UP Authorization to pick up a child is given in the application attached. No child will be released to a person not authorized by the custodial parent. We must have written authorization for changes in this respect. Children will not be released to siblings. Staff will question those persons with whom they are unfamiliarandcheckauthorizationbeforereleasingachild.Identificationwillbe requested of anyone that we do not know.

In accordance with section 63.2.-1813 of the code of Virginia, a custodial parent or guardian shall be allowed admittance to any “childdayprogram.”Achilddayprogramisdefinedas“oneinwhicha person or organization has agreed to resume responsibility of the supervision, protection and well-being of a child under the age of thirteen for less than a twenty-four hour period, regardless of whether it is licensed.”

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Astaffcannotlegallyrefusetoreleaseachildtoaverifiednaturalparentunlessthereisacourtorderinthechild’sfilestatingthattheparentdoesnothave custodial rights. Writing on our form that you do not want a husband or wife to pick up your child does not give us the legal right to refuse pick-up. Only the courts can give us that right.

LATE PICK-UP POLICY We understand that a late pick up may occur on a rare occasion. However, please understand that we open at 6:30am sharp and close at 6:00pm sharp. If your child is not picked up by the end of his/her program, a late fee will be charged and collected at that time. If it is 6:01pm (by our clock), you are late and a late fee will be assessed.

THE FEE IS $15 PER 15-MINUTE INTERVAL (per child). This fee is used to pay the two counselors (that are required by the state) who remain with your child. If you know you are going to be late, call us. We do understand that things comeupandtrafficcanbechallengingeveninthebestoftimes.Wetendtoworry about your safety just as much as your child does. Please be considerate.

If we have not heard from you by 6pm and we cannot reach you by phone, your emergency numbers will be called and one of those contacts will be asked to come to get your child. If neither you nor your emergency contact can be reached, we will keep your child for one hour. After that time, the police will be contacted to see if there has been an accident and/or to drive by your home to see if there is a problem. If no problems are found, then Child Protective Serviceswillbenotified.

EXCESSIVE LATE PICK-UP POLICY The YMCA of South Hampton Roads has found that it is necessary to have an excessive late pick-up policy, which could result in you being asked to remove your child from our program. This policy is as follows: if you are late more than three times in any program cycle, you may be asked to remove your child. For preschool, this is three times in a year; for school age, this is three times in a school year. Many of our staff go to school or have other positions within the YMCAwhichrequiresthemtobeontimeforthoseduties.Weareconfidentyou understand.

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY The Y-Child Care program could close during HAZARDOUS WEATHER CONDITIONS.Listentoyourlocalradiostationtoconfirmclosings.Inclementweather conditions may delay our opening and/or transportation of your children to school. The program will not open if there is only one staff person on site due to weather conditions.

The following information applies to children who are attending our school-based programs in Chesapeake, Portsmouth and Norfolk Public Schools.

1. On days when school is closed (teacher work days & other holidays), the program is closed at the school location your child normally attends. However, care is available (for a limited number of children) at the corresponding branch with the same open and close times as that branch uses during the Summer Day Camp season.

2. The Y-School Age program could close during INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS. If the public schools are closed due to weather or other reasons, the program is also closed at your child’s regular school location. However, care is available (for a limited number of children) at the corresponding branch with the same open and close times as that branch uses during the Summer Day Camp season.

3. During early dismissal, child care will be available at the schools. (These are for regularly scheduled half days.)

4. For early dismissals that are not regularly scheduled, site directors and counselors will go to their sites to make phone calls to all the parents, letting them know that their child needs to be picked up.

5. INCLEMENT WEATHER DELAY—On those mornings there is an announced delay to the start of your child’s school day, there is NO care at the school.TheChesapeake,EffinghamandBlockerNorfolkFamilyYMCAscannot accommodate your child at the branch on those mornings. Parents with children in these school-based programs must make their own arrangements for care until school starts. We will be there for afternoon care only.

6. All of our other branch locations may be able to accommodate your child during school holidays and inclement weather days and delays. Please contactyourbranchchildcaredirectorforfurtherclarification.

7. In the event your Y-Child Care program closes due to inclement weather or natural disasters, we will follow the same procedures outlined in paragraph two of the Late Pick-up Policy.

DRESS POLICY Children should wear comfortable and appropriate clothing for indoor and outdoor activities. We strongly recommend that you send your child in serviceable clothes, but not “party” best. We use washable paints and crayons and use smocks, however clothing can still get stained. We do not reimburse for clothing rips, stains or normal wear and tear. No open-toed shoes or heelies are allowed.

CLOSED-TOED SHOES MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES. Open-toed shoes can be a safety hazard to your child. They are cool in the summer, but not safe on much of the playground equipment. If you send your childinopen-toedsandalsorin“flip-flops,”youwillbecalledandaskedtobring different shoes for your child.

PERSONAL ITEMS POLICY We have plenty of equipment and activities to keep your child busy. Please do not allow any toys, video games, iPods or cell phones to accompany your child.Thiseliminatesfights,theftand/orlostitemsthatwecannotberesponsible for AND WILL NOT REIMBURSE FOR.

PERSONAL SPACE is important for every child. Knowing that we will provide every child an area to store his/her belongings, it is expected that the parents will provide proper seasonal clothing, and bathing suit with towel for occasional swimming trips.

POOL SAFETY Because your Y-Preschool child is participating in our Swim Lessons and or free swim time, it is of the utmost importance that you know and understand our POOL SAFETY RULES.

1. Check in with the lifeguard when entering the pool area.2. Shower before entering the pool.3. No unsafe entries from the side of the pool.4. No running, pushing or shoving.5. Stay off the ropes.6. No shoes on the deck.7. Proper swim attire is required (no-cut offs).8. No glass allowed in the pool area.9. A swim test of one pool length is required to swim in the deep end.10. When the whistle blows, pay attention to the lifeguard.

OUTSIDE PLAY It is the policy of Y-Child Care and the Virginia Department of Social Services, thatanychildthatisinaprogramfromtwotofivehoursadaywillhaveatleast 30 minutes of OUTSIDE PLAY per day, weather permitting. For those children in our program for more than 5 hours, 60 minutes of outside play are required by Virginia licensing standards. We support this requirement. It is our belief that children need and want to be outside. Running, jumping and other such movement can only be accomplished outside. Children need the space and the opportunity for such movement on a daily basis, if there is to be proper muscle development. If children are to gain strength and develop to their fullest, outside play is essential. If your child is too sick to go outside, then he or she is too sick to be in school.

INSURANCE The YMCA complies with Virginia Child Care licensing standards related to participant insurance coverage. Limits and exclusions apply.

FOOD POLICY Two snacks will be served to all children attending our Y-Preschool program. An afternoon snack will be provided to the Y-School Age program participants. Lunches must be in an insulated, sealable container that is labeled with the child’s name and a date.

The Y-Child Care program will not serve junk foods and/or empty calorie foods as part of a required snack. Snacks always include a minimum of two food groups. There will be a menu posted for the month on the parent board.

If your school-age child requires more snacks than we are providing, please feel free to send him/her with additional items. However, understand that it must be healthy. Licensing does not allow sugary snacks or empty calories. (Even though we understand that they taste the best!)

If you want to bring food for special celebration, we ask that it be healthy. Contrary to popular belief, children do NOT need to have sugared snacks and treats. Items such as raisins, nuts, popcorn, pretzels, vegetables and dip, or frozen yogurt are just a few of our suggestions.

SICK CHILD POLICY The HEALTH and SAFETY of your child is a matter of major importance to all of us. In order to protect the children in the program who are well, we have very stringent rules about sick children. These rules are in compliance with all Commonwealth of Virginia licensing regulations.

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If your child becomes ill in our program, we will call you and you must make arrangements to pick up your child IMMEDIATELY. Sick children cannot be with well children. If we send your child home with a fever, they may not return until they have been without a fever for 24 hours. This means if we send your child home on Tuesday, he or she may not return until Thursday.

Please keep your child home if your child has:

had a fever in the previous 24-hour period•

a cold that is less than two days old•

a heavy nasal discharge•

a constant cough•

reoccurring vomiting or diarrhea (2 or more times)•

temperature of 100°•

symptomsofcommunicabledisease(sniffles,reddenedeyes,sorethroat,•headache and abdominal pain plus a fever)

VACATION POLICY The Y-Preschool child is allowed NO vacation or sick absenteeism because the preschool tuition is based on 50 weeks, not 52. That 50 weeks of tuition is then divided evenly for a monthly rate. No credit is given for days missed or scheduled closings.

The Y School Age child will be allowed one week of “absenteeism” or “vacation” perschoolyear.However,youaccrueyouroneweekafterthefirst12weeksyour child has attended the program. If you do not use your week of sick/ vacation for any given year, you lose it. Vacation/ sick time cannot accrue from year to year. Payments must be current in order to take advantage of “vacation” time. Parents are asked to give the director notice prior to a planned vacation.

MEDICATION POLICY If your child requires medication while at Y-Child Care, we must have a signed authorization to give medicine. The medication must be prescribed by a doctor, it must be in the original bottle with the child’s name on it, and it cannot be an over-the-counter drug unless it has been prescribed by the doctor (we must have a note to that effect). Authorization is good for one week only and then mustbefilledoutagain.(Theonlyexceptiontothisislong-termmedicationsfor such things as asthma, ADHD, etc.) All medication will be kept in a locked box. We cannot be responsible for missed doses. We are not required by law to administer medication and only do so as a service to the parent. Please understand that it may not always be possible to administer medications as requested. (Whenever possible, Y-School Age will ask the school nurse to administer medicine needed before the close of the school day.) Only those YMCAChildCarestaffwhoarecertified“MedicationAdministrators”maydispense medications.

OVER-THE-COUNTER SKIN PRODUCTS YMCA Child Care staff will administer sunscreen, diaper ointment/cream and/or insect repellent provided:

We receive written parental authorization noting any adverse reactions.1.

Products are in their original containers labeled with your child’s name.2.

Note: Children under nine years of age may not administer their own sunscreen. YMCA Child Care staff will administer sunscreen to this age group in accordance with standards for licensed child day centers.

CHILD INJURY POLICY If your child has an injury that may require more than our First Aid skills allow, or your child has been bumped on the head of any kind, we will make an immediate attempt to contact you. If we are unable to reach you or the person you have designated in case of such emergencies, we will call the child’s physician. If necessary, we will call an ambulance. The program will maintain a parent’s signed consent form agreeing to this provision. Please make every effort to keep the YMCA up-to-date on phone numbers, emergency numbers and other pertinent information. This is of the utmost importance because the hospital will not treat your child without you being there.

FIELD TRIP POLICY In order to reduce paperwork and waste, the FIELD TRIP AGREEMENT authorizestheY-ChildCareprogramtotakeyourchildonallschoolfieldtripsfor the school year with a 24-hour notice. We do this rather than having a separate permission slip go home for every trip, risking confusion, loss and the possibility that we would not be able to take your child for lack of permission. Youhavetherighttorefusepermissionforyourchildtogoonaparticularfieldtrip. Just let us know in a timely fashion, not that day! Preschoolers under the age of 4 must have car seats; please remember to drop yours off the day of the fieldtrip.

TRANSPORTATION POLICY Whenever the YMCA of South Hampton Roads TRANSPORTS children, the parentscanbeconfidentthateveryprecautionwillbetakentoensureyourchild’s safety.

Motor vehicle injuries represent the greatest threat to a child’s life. The ensuring of your child’s safety is accomplished by being alert to potential dangers, eliminating or avoiding these dangers, and knowing what to do when an emergency occurs. Regardless of the vehicle used, your child will be seat-belted in and expected to stay seated. We will never transport more children in a vehicle than we have restraints for. The children will be expected to keep their hands to themselves, and remain relatively quiet. At no time will a child be permitted to put his/her arms, hands or head out of the vehicle’s windows.

No rough-housing will be tolerated at any time. Loading and unloading the children will be done only when the vehicle is pulled up to a curb, the side of the road, or in a driveway, and we will only release them to an authorized adult. At no time will an adult DRIVE AND DISCIPLINE AT THE SAME TIME. CHILDREN WILL NEVER BE LEFT ALONE IN A VEHICLE.

DISCIPLINE POLICY All efforts will be made to guide children to appropriate behavior. The YMCA believes that punishment is unnecessary but DISCIPLINE is needed to help children gain self-control. Respect for your child will be demonstrated at all times, and the same respect will be expected from your child for his/her peers and the YMCA staff at all times. When disciplinary action is necessary, age-appropriate methods will be implemented. They will follow the Commonwealth’s behavior regulations that follow:

“There shall be no physical punishment or disciplinary action administered to the body such as, but not limited to, spanking, forcing a child to assume an uncomfortable position (e.g., standing on one foot, keeping arms raised above or horizontal to the body); restraining to restrict movement through bindingortying;enclosinginaconfinedspace,boxorsimilarcubicle;orusing exercise as a means of punishment. Children will not be shaken at any time. The center will never force or withhold food, nor force or withhold naps, as means of discipline. Toileting accidents will not be disciplined. There will be no abusive language which would include, but no be limited to, threats or belittling remarks about any child or the family.”

There are clear and appropriate behavioral expectations for the children in our care. We try to set limits, help children understand rules and give clear definitionsofacceptableandunacceptablebehavior.Childrenaremorelikelytofollow rules that have been introduced from the beginning. Some rules that we like to see are:

1. Wefindoutwhattheproblemis.2. We attack the problem, not the person.3. We listen to each other.4. We care about each other’s feelings.5. We are responsible for what we say and do.

For Y-School Age Child Care please discuss the following rules with your child:

1. Do not use vulgarity, profanity or obscenity.2. Listen to the counselor at all times.3. Never leave the group without permission from an adult.4. Respect each other and yourself.5. Keep your hands to yourself.6. Usewords,notfists,tosolveproblems.

A system of “TIME-OUTS,” redirection and suggestions from parents on what they have discovered works well at home, will be used. Logical and natural consequences will be allowed where applicable.

On occasion, our staff will identify behaviors that require disciplinary action. If a child should exhibit an inappropriate behavior while under the supervision of a YMCA staff person, the following sequence of actions will be taken:

Thebehaviorwillfirstbeaddressedbytheteacher/counselorwiththechild,•in private.

If the inappropriate behavior continues, the teacher/counselor will notify •the site director and the situation will then be discussed with the parent. A Character Assistance form will be used to document these continuing behavior problems.

If a child’s behavior jeopardizes the safety of themselves or others, the •suspension policy could be ignored and the child may be removed from the program immediately.

SUSPENSION POLICY If inappropriate behavior continues, the site director will notify the parent that a conference needs to be held within 48 hours. At that conference, the director may refer the parent/child for outside testing and evaluation, and the child will be suspended from the Y-Child Care program for 1 day.

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A second serious infraction will result in a suspension of 3-5 days & a request for professional testing & evaluation may be required before the child may return to our program. If the behavior has not improved, the child will be immediatelyremovedfromtheprogramandnorefundwillbegiven.(*Iftheparent refuses to work with us during this process, we will be forced to terminate the child from the program.) The YMCA has rarely been forced to use suspension from the program. We believe that if the child perceives the YMCA as concerned, involved, consistent, caring and respectful, and if we exhibit calmness,fewwordsandafirmbutkindattitude,theresultswillusually be positive.

BITING POLICY Although it is developmentally appropriate for a toddler (16-30 mos.) to bitebecauseoflimitedlanguageandsocialskills,wefinditaninappropriatebehavior in the child care environment. When there is evidence of this reoccurring behavior, the YMCA will take the following actions:

Parentswillbenotifiedthattheproblemexistswithintheclassroom. •A conference will be set up and actions will be discussed to curtail the problem.

If the biting continues, the parent will be asked to pick the child up from the •center for the remainder of the day.

If the biting still persists, the parents will be asked to shorten the child’s day •by half for up to 30-days. (The behavior will be reviewed weekly during this time.)

If there is no improvement in this situation upon returning to the center, the •parents may be asked to remove the child from our program for an extended period of time. THIS IS A LAST RESORT. (This is at the discretion of the center director.)

Children over the age of three are not excluded from this policy. If there is a “biting incident” where an older child is involved, the parent will be called; a conference will be set up, and a behavior contract will be implemented. We will monitor the contract closely. If there is no improvement witnessed, then the association suspension policy will be enforced.

TERMINATION POLICY The Y-Child Care program reserves the right to terminate your child’s attendance at our school for such things as, but not restricted to; disruptive behavior problems, emotional problems or learning disabilities that we are not equipped to handle, or that are a safety risk to themselves or to the other children in attendance.

Iftheseoranyotherproblemsbegintoupsetorinfluencetheotherchildrenin the program, and we have proceeded through the steps sited in our suspension policy, we will have no other recourse than to terminate your child’s attendance in our program. It is very rare but in extreme situations we have been forced to “pass over” our suspension policy steps and immediately move to terminating a child from the program because of the severity of the problem and our responsibility to protect your child and others. If your child has been terminated from any of our programs, s/he may not attend the same program at a different location.

If your school-age child is no longer enrolled in our program, your child’s schoolwillbenotifiedsothatheorshecangohomeontheappropriateschool bus.

NO BABY-SITTING POLICY Effective 1 January, 1996, YMCA child care staff members are prohibited from baby-sitting any participants of a Y-Child Care program. This restriction extends to transporting of family members to and from the YMCA, or any other function that is not YMCA program related.

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION POLICY The growth and development of men, women, boys, girls and families has been the YMCA’s principle concern for over 150 years. Through programs of health and wellness, aquatics, sports, camping, parent-child, family programs and child care, the YMCA is responding to the needs of the children and families. Many changes have occurred in the lives of children and families today. Some of these changes are positive; however, the alarming increase in child abuse is of particular concern to the YMCA. Throughout its history, the YMCA has been a strong advocate for the child and children’s rights. It is therefore most appropriate that mistreatment or neglect of children and the resulting severe effects would be of primary concern to the YMCA.

The YMCA advocates a positive guidance and discipline policy with an emphasis on positive reinforcement, redirection prevention and the development of self-discipline. At no time will the following disciplinary techniques be tolerated: physical punishment, yelling, striking, biting, kicking, squeezing, shaming, withholdingfoodorrestroomprivileges,confiningchildreninsmalllockedrooms, or verbal or emotional abuse.

Affectionate touch and the warm feelings it brings is an important factor in helping a child grow into a loving a peaceful adult. However, YMCA staff and volunteers need to be sensitive to each person’s need for personal space (i.e., not everyone wants to be hugged). The YMCA encourages appropriate touch; however, at the same time it prohibits inappropriate touch or other means of sexually exploiting children.

Based upon its concern for children, parents and YMCA staff, the following standardsrelatedtoreportingprocedures,staffing,standards,codeofconduct and resources for parents and children, have been developed.

**Note:TheYMCA,likemanyotherpublicinstitutions,ismandatedbylaw,toreport suspected child abuse.

“CHILD ABUSE is mistreatment or neglect of a child by parent(s) or others resulting in injury or harm. Child abuse may be physical, verbal, emotional or sexual. Its effects may result in severe emotional and physical handicaps, anti-social behavior, even death.”

Procedures

Atthefirstreportorsuspicionofchildabuse,thestafforvolunteeror1. whom it has been reported, will immediately inform his or her supervisor.

The YMCA will make a report to Child Protective Services and will request 2. that the situation be investigated.

In the event the reported incident or suspicion involves an employed staff 3. person or volunteer, the responsible executive director will suspend the person from all responsibilities, and if appropriate, without pay until the investigation is complete.

All staff members and volunteers must be sensitive to the need for 4. confidentialityinthehandlingofinformationinthisareaandarethereforeinstructed to only discuss matters pertaining to abuse or suspected abuse with their supervisor.

Transportation of program participants in a private vehicle may only occur 5. withthewrittenpermissionoftheparentandspecificapprovalfromthestaff member’s supervisor.

YMCA staff and volunteers may not make contact with children or parents 6. involved in a child abuse incident without permission of the branch executive.

Whether the incident or alleged offense takes place on or off YMCA 7. premises, it will be considered job related (because of the youth-involved nature of the YMCA).

All incidents or alleged offenses will be documented the day of occurrence.

LICENSING INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

The Commonwealth of Virginia helps assure parents that child day programs that assume responsibility for the supervision, protection and well-being of a child for any part of a 24-hour day are safe. Title 63.1, Chapter 10 of the Code of Virginia gives the Department of Social Services authority to license these programs.

Standards for licensed child day centers address certain health precautions, adequate play space, a ratio of children to staff member, equipment, program andrecordkeeping.Criminalrecordchecksandspecificqualificationsforstaffand most volunteers working directly with children are also required. Standards requirethefacilitytomeetapplicablefire,healthandbuildingcodes.

Compliance with standards is determined by announced and unannounced visits to the program by licensing staff within the Department of Social Services. In addition, parents or other individuals may register a complaint about a program which will be investigated if it violates a standard.

If you would like additional information about the licensing of child day programs or would like to register a complaint, please contact the Eastern RegionalOfficeofSocialServicesat:

EasternRegionalOffice PembrokeFourOfficeBuilding,Suite300 Virginia Beach, VA 23462-5496 (757) 491-3990

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ChesapeaKeChesapeake School-Age Child Care YMCA 2100 Old Greenbrier Road Chesapeake, VA 23320 p 757 366 9622

franKlinJames L. Camp, Jr. Family YMCA 300 Crescent Drive Franklin, VA 23851 p 757 562 3491

eliZaBeth CityAlbemarle Family YMCA 1240 North Road Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909 p 252 334 9622

norfolKBlocker Norfolk Family YMCA 312 West Bute Street Norfolk, VA 23510 p 757 622 9622

portsmouthEffingham Street Family YMCA 1013 Effingham Street Portsmouth, VA 23704 p 757 399 5511

suffolKSuffolk Family YMCA 2769 Godwin Boulevard Suffolk, VA 23434 p 757 934 9622

virGinia BeaChHilltop Family YMCA 1536 Laskin Road Virginia Beach, VA 23451 p 757 422 3805

Indian River Family YMCA 5660 Indian River Road Virginia Beach, VA 23464 p 757 366 0488

Mt. Trashmore Family YMCA 4441 South Boulevard Virginia Beach, VA 23452 p 757 456 9622

Salem YMCA Family Center 2029 Salem Road Virginia Beach, VA 23456 p 757 471 9622

Child Care loCations

spaCe is limited; reGister your Child for ymCa Child Care today!

The YMCA provides Before & After-School programs in YMCA family centers and in select public schools throughout the community. For a complete list of schools we serve, visit www.ymcashr.org/programs/schoolage.

YMCA OF SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS250 W. Brambleton Avenue, Suite 100, Norfolk, VA 23510p 757 962 5555 w www.ymcashr.org

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

paidNORFOLK, VA PERMIT 330

register early for child care and save! Take advantage of these savings on the $50 materials fee.

May 2-15: $10 materials fee May 16–end of school: $25 materials fee