CONTRACT 1-1-15

Contract for Care

Lady Bug’s Child Care is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6 o’clock pm. Prices and services are listed below:

Ages Birth to age 5: Full Time: $150 per week (includes breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack). Gerber brand baby food and cereal, Royal Crest brand milk (no growth hormones) for the older children, and organic fruits, vegetables, and meats are offered (unless unavailable). If parents prefer a particular brand not offered or their child has an allergy, supplying the alternative will be the responsibility of the parent. Each child will be provided their own bed or crib for napping, car seat, and utensils, plates, cups, bottles / sippy cups by the child care center. Parents are responsible for providing diapers/wipes/creams/latex gloves for diaper changes/sun-block and 3 changes of clothes for each child to leave in clothing box at the center during potty training. For potty trained children, only a single change of clothes to leave at the center in case of accidents is required. Accidents can include spilling food or otherwise soiling clothing or falling and bleeding on clothing. An optional food program is offered through the child care center. (See Enclosed Forms) Part time:Due to the nature of our program at Lady Bug’s Child Care, we do not enroll new children on a part time basis. There are 2 situations in which we will offer part time care: 1.) A child is already enrolled as full time and a schedule change occurs due to a job loss or schedule change (and a part time spot is

available). The rate of care for a part time preschool aged child is $30 per day, —signed in the terms of a weekly contract (example: attendance 3 days a week would be signed into a weekly care rate of $90). 2.) A currently enrolled family has a school aged child that needs care on days when school is not in session. School aged care is offered only during school vacation and is on a first come-first serve basis. The rate of care for a part time, school aged child is $30 per day during the school year. In summer, the regular rate for a sibling of $125 per week—signed in the terms of a weekly contract applies-- plus any fieldtrip fees. Lady Bug’s Child Care will provide breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack. Parents are required to give a school schedule at least 2 weeks in advance of your school-aged child’s attendance. You will be required to sign a new contract to include the new rate information and days your child will be scheduled to be in care. *A vacation week is not offered to part time clients with preschool aged children. (See Vacation)

Multiple child/Sibling discount:If multiple children from the same immediate family or siblings are enrolled at the same time, we offer our Sibling Discount. The cost of the first child enrolled is $150 per week, and the second drops to $125 per week, saving the family $100 per month. If both children do not remain enrolled at Lady Bug’s, the rate for the remaining child automatically goes back to the regular, full time rate. If you have questions about how a sibling discount might affect your bill, please feel free to ask any questions you might have.

Hours of Operation:Lady Bug’s Child Care is open Monday through

Friday from 8 am until 6 pm. Please be respectful in honoring our hours of operation. All phone calls, texts, and e-mails will be answered during business

hours. *Pre arranged overnight hours are also available. *(see Overnight Care)

Admission and Registration Procedures:An interview and tour of the child care home will

be completed prior to your child/ren being accepted into care. If after the interview and tour both parties feel that Lady Bug’s would be a good fit for your child’s needs the following information will need to be provided prior to your child’s first day:

1.) SIGNED CONTRACT2.) ENROLLMENT / EMERGENCY CONTACT

INFORMATION3.) EMEMRGENCY MEDICAL

AUTHORIZATION/MEDICAL RELEASE4.) IMMUNIZATION RECORDS5.) GENERAL HEALTH APPRASIAL6.) ADDITIONAL ADULT PICK UP PERMISSION

Trial Period/Probation: A trial period of 4 weeks is given at the

beginning of placement to ensure that both parties are happy with the placement. If the needs of the child cannot be met at this facility or other problems arise, the contract may be cancelled without a two week notice.

A family can be placed on probation for any violation of this contract. A written letter will be given when and if you are placed on probation. If the problem persists, your contract will be cancelled (with or without 2 weeks notice depending on the severity of the violation) and your child’s spot at Lady Bug’s will be no longer available.

Initial Pre-Payment/Payments/Enrollment Fee: One week advanced payment plus the enrollment

fee is due for the first week your child is enrolled at Lady Bug’s Child Care. Thereafter, payment is due according to the Payment Schedule Agreement. Each

family has the option to choose a payment schedule that coincides with their pay schedule at work. The choices for payment schedules are as follows: Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday

Payment will be due on the following of your choice:

WeeklyBi-monthly on the ________ and the __________ of the month.Bi-Weekly (every other week) beginning on ______________, 20__.Monthly on the _____________ of the month.

Payments are made in ADVANCE. Payments can be made by cash, check, or direct deposit. When writing a check, please make it payable to: MELISSA FINN. A $25.00 returned check fee will be administered on all returned checks.

Fees:An enrollment fee of $35 per child will be applied

to the weekly rate at the beginning of care to cover the cost of printing a t-shirt for outings, a new basket, and the share of the cost of over the counter meds (A Fever Reducer or Pain Reliever for pain or fever over 101 degrees and Benadryl in case of an allergic reaction. The policy of keeping these OTC medications is required by the State of Colorado—and Lady Bug’s Child Care must have on site at all times: Tylenol, Benadryl, and Motrin for each child’s use. (See attached OTC permission form)

A $25 dollar late fee will be assessed for EACH WEEK when a late payment is given. For each increment of $150, or weekly amount for part time that is paid late--$25 dollars will be charged. For example: If you are on a bi-weekly schedule—you will be charged $50 if you turn in your payment late. If there is an ongoing problem of turning in on-time

payments, you will be placed on probation. If on-time and advance payment for child care services cannot be counted on, the contract will be cancelled and your child’s spot will no longer be available.

Deposit to Ensure Enrollment: A deposit (one week’s charge) may be given to

ensure your child’s spot. A spot cannot be held indefinitely, and a contractual date of enrollment is required. Money is due from the contract date even if this date does not coincide with the date of actual attendance. Deposits will be counted as your first week’s payment. Deposits are non-refundable. Enrollment is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you currently have a child enrolled and become pregnant—you will be offered any openings that become available before the general public. There is a fee to hold the spot if the baby isn’t going to be in attendance as soon as the spot becomes available. *Please see Maternity leave for more information.

Returned Check Fee:All returned checks will be assessed a $25 dollar

fee. In the event that this happens more than once, you will be placed on probation and a cash payment will be Required from that point on.

Taxes/Year End Statement:Your childcare costs are tax deductable! You will

receive a receipt for every child care payment you submit to Lady Bug’s Child Care. Tax law requires me to submit to you (before the last day of January of the following year) the amount you have paid for child care. If you have moved and your child is not longer enrolled, please be certain to pass on your new address so that I am able to mail you your statement. If your child is currently enrolled your statement will

be left on your child’s clip for pick up before the last day of January of the following year. If I do not have a current address for you, I will use your last known e-mail address to send your tax documents if your child is not currently enrolled.

Dropping off/Picking Up:Transitions can be difficult for some children and

it is normal for a child to be upset at drop off—especially during the first few weeks. Please help with this transition and make your drop off as brief as possible. Assure your child when you will return, and please never leave your child without saying goodbye. Never leave or pick up your child without making the provider aware. A sign in – sign out chart is located near the front door on the wall. Signing your child in and out of care at each drop off time is required at Lady Bug’s Child Care. The amount due and payment record for your child/ren is also listed on the sign-in sign out chart.

Please be in control of your child during pick ups and drop offs. This is a time of testing when two different authority figures (provider and parent) are present and this situation will be tested at least at one time or another. I will remind the child if inappropriate behaviors are being displayed. Each child will adjust to transitions differently—so don’t get upset or feel guilty if your child is having a hard time. By keeping good-byes short and remaining calm yourself, you are helping your child feel secure. Your child will realize by your reaction that they are safe and okay—and that you will return again later to pick them up. If dropping off before naptime, please do so no later than 1 pm so that we can stay on schedule. Thank you.

Your child MUST exit Lady Bug’s WITH you. THIS IS A COLORADO STATE REGULATION. Please do not leave your car running—and do not let your child play in or near vehicles at any time.

Additional Adult Pick Up:If you plan to have a friend or family member

(not immediate) pick up your child, written permission must be received 24 hours before the planned pick up. If the other adult is authorized to pick up your child on the “Additional Adult Pick-Up Form”, then verbal permission for this to happen MUST be received before arrival of the verified adult. Please notify the person picking your child up to have photo identification ready to show Lady Bug’s staff if we have not yet met them. If verbal and written permission is not received from you, the parent, I am legally unable to release your child into their care until that permission from you is received. If someone attempts to pick up your child and they are not authorized, 911 will be called. If court orders deny a non custodial parent from picking up Lady Bug’s is required to have on file a copy of those orders. Please include (if applicable) these files to your child’s enrollment forms. If a parent or any other adult arrives to pick up a child and appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol I will encourage you to let me call for someone else to come get you. If you leave with your child I will be forced to call 911 and DHS to report the incident.

If there is a situation with your family where a particular family member is not allowed contact with your child, an additional form denying that person from permission to ever pick up your child must be filled out and filed in your child’s record.

Open door:At Lady Bug’s Child Care, we keep the door open

for drop offs and pick ups during the hours of 8:00 to 9:00 am and 4:30 to 6:00 pm. During all other hours the door is locked for safety reasons. If dropping off or picking up during hours other than listed above, please give me a courtesy call so that I can have the

door unlocked for you when you arrive. During regular drop off/pick up times; please feel free to walk in the door without knocking or ringing the bell. Let any family members or friends know that this is the policy and to come right in. When we are outside or down in the playroom, it’s really hard to hear the bell or knocking, so please just come right on in! As much as possible, I ask that everyone avoid pick ups and drop offs during the hours of naptime (2:00-4:30 pm) to ensure that each child gets the rest they need, we stay on a schedule, and that the other children’s rest periods are not disturbed. I also have duties that I complete during naptime hours, so please schedule any pick ups or drop offs during hours other than naptime if at all possible.

Feel free to call at any time during the day, but please keep in mind that I may not always be able to answer. Just leave a message and I will return your call as soon as I am finished with the current activity.

After Hours:All children are expected to be dropped off no

earlier than 8:00 am and picked up no later than 6 pm After hours are provided only when advance notice is given and may not always be available. Please provide 24 hours notice when if you need to drop your child off early or pick up late. If you do not give 24hours notice, I cannot guarantee that the hours will be available. These requests will only be accepted if a verbal exchange (during business hours) takes place between both parties and approval is given. The cost of early drop off or pick up are charged on a 30 minute increment. (7:30 am / 7:00 am / 6:00 pm / 6:30 pm, etc…) The cost per 30 minute increment is $5. If the time at check out is past the next increment, then payment for 2 or more will be due with your next child care payment.

If you are late or early (any time before 8 am or after 6 pm) in picking up your child and 24 hours

notice was not given, the cost is $1 per minute per child. Please give a courtesy call if you are going to be late. The monies due for arriving early or late will be due with your next child care payment. No exceptions. If you are running late due to an emergency and no one is available to pick up your child, he or she will be fed dinner at 7 pm. We serve afternoon snack at 4:40 p.m. before the child care closes for the evening. In the event that we have plans after the business closure, you child will attend with us. I always carry my cell phone on outings so you would be able to contact me if we were out.

In the unlikely event that you do not pick up your child and you have not called to let me know when to expect you, I will attempt to contact you by phone—and subsequently each emergency contact person listed on your form. If I am unable to reach you or any of the emergency contacts provided by 6:30 pm, local authorities will be called.

Overnight Care:Prearranged overnight care is available at Lady

Bug’s Child Care. Overnight care is offered between the hours of 8 am Monday morning through 6:00 pm Friday evening. 24 hours advanced notice must be given in order for these hours to be offered. Overnight hours may not always be available and must be pre-approved. The cost of overnight care is $40 per child per overnight. Payment must be given in advance.

Our Early Childhood Education/Childcare Philosophy:Lady Bug’s Early Education philosophy is based on 3 different Early Education philosophies: Play Based, Reggio Emilia Approach, and Cognitive Philosophy.

Play Based Philosophy — Playing to Learn/Learning to Play

Play Based programs teach children to think creatively so they may succeed in a complex and ever-changing world. Purposeful play is developmentally appropriate and a significant element of any early childhood program. The following emphasizes the importance of play in a child’s intellectual, social, emotional and physical development. Play is a way of learning for children. During a typical preschool day there will be structured and unstructured periods, enabling children to learn through at their own rate. Values that support learning through play include:•Children are viewed as thinkers, reflecting about their world•Purposeful play is when children learn through the process of their efforts•Children gain knowledge by building on a path of ever increasing knowledge•Children are encouraged to make choices and practice individual decision-makingLearning environments support purposeful play by: •Blocks of various sizes and materials•Materials and time for dramatic, imaginative play•Manipulative and table toys•Art materials and tools to explore•Sensory play materials, including sand and water•A library area•Gardening•Music and movement activities•Cooking experiences•Computer exploration•Outdoor and gross motor play •A quiet area for the child who needs to be alone•Ample and rich language and print•Writing tools and materials

Reggio Emilia Approach:The Reggio Emilia Approach to education was started by the schools of Reggio Emilia in Italy, after World

War II and has become renowned as one of the best educational systems in the world. This approach places emphasis on the arts as children’s symbolic language and an engaging learning environment. The concept of equal collaboration is very important to the success of Reggio Emilia Schools. In these schools, teachers, parents, and children, along with the community are seen as co-constructors of knowledge. In Reggio Schools, parents are considered equal partners with teachers in their children’s education. They are respected and valued, and are expected to be involved with both the school and the classroom. We happily encourage all parents to take part in celebrations, learning adventures, and day to day activities.

Cognitive Based Philosophy:Cognitive Based programs encourage young children learn through active exploration in an environment which is rich in materials and opportunities to converse, socialize, work, play and negotiate with others. Our playroom and outdoor area are planned to encourage curiosity, exploration and problem solving in an atmosphere of warmth, affection and respect for each child. Learning Adventures are planned experiences based on children’s interests and appropriate educational concepts. Children may work individually or collaboratively, and may choose whether or not to participate in a project. Children are actively involved in experiences which include foundations of math, science, social studies, creative art, language arts, music, movement and dramatic play. All interrelated aspects of the child’s growth and developmentare considered — intellectual, social, emotional, physical and creative. The following goals are strived for in a Cognitive Based Early Childhood Education philosophy:Development of a positive self-concept

Respect for the individuality and rights of othersPositive ways of interacting with peers and adults Acceptance and expression of both positive and negative feelingsGrowth of independence and self-sufficiency Growth of creative thinking and problem solving Cognitive growth and developmentEmergent literacy developmentSmall and large muscle development

Field Trips/Activities/Daily Schedule:During any given day at Lady Bug’s, the following

activities may occur:

FREE PLAY: CHILD LED PLAYCIRCLE TIME: READING, TALKING, MUSIC, KINDERGARTEN REP, ARTS/CRAFTS

FIELD TRIPS: EXAPLES OF THIS ARE TRIPS TO THE LIBRARY FOR STORY TIME, ANY LEARNING ADVENTURE, TO THE DOLLAR STORE TO TRADE IN STARS, MCDONALDS, ETC…

OUTSIDE PLAY: ANY OUTDOOR ACTIVITY WHERE THE FOCUS IS ON DEVELOPMENT OF LARGE MUSCLE GROUPS AND GROSS MOTER SKILLS. (Weather permitting)

NAP/ QUIET TIME: RESTORATIVE REST PERIOD OR QUIET ACTIVITY TIME. At Lady Bug’s, our daily schedule runs as follows: Drop off begins at 8:00 am. Breakfast is served at 8:30 am. Free play/Circle Time/Outside Play is scheduled between 9 am and 11 am. Lunch is served at 11:30 am. After lunch we get cleaned up and enjoy Outside Play until about 1:30 pm if weather allows us. At 1:30 pm, we begin clean up of the playroom and get ready for naptime/quite time. Naptime/quite time

is from 2 pm to 4:30 pm. Afternoon snack is served at 4:45 pm. Pick ups happen from about 4:45 to 6 pm, so we try to do some type of activity that will not be hard for your child to leave from, such as outdoor play, dancing, or free play in the playroom.

We frequently go for walks, to the park (Pioneer Elementary, Cottonwood, or other neighborhood parks), Focus on the Family, the Dollar Store, and out for special lunches (like McDonalds and the “Play Place”), or story time at East Library. A general permission slip for these activities is included with the enrollment forms. I always carry my cell phone if we are away from the child care home. You can reach me on that phone (719-964-6738) at any time we are on an outing.

A red Lady Bug’s Child Care T-shirt with your child’s name on the back will be printed for your child to wear on outings. Please remember to dress your child in this T-shirt for all LEARNING ADVENTURE outings. If you lose your t-shirt or a new one is needed, a charge of $20 per shirt will need to be added to your payment. If your child simply outgrows their shirt, you made trade in the old one for a bigger one at no charge.

Notice will be given in advance for any special field trips AKA, LEARNING ADVENTURES, (i.e. Denver Children’s Museum/Pueblo Zoo/Denver Aquarium/Happy Apple Farm) and signed parental permission specific to the outing must be given in order for your child to participate (if out of the Colorado Springs area). Permission slips for field trips will be posted on the closet by the front door for all parents to sign. Admission fees are not covered by Lady Bug’s, and money will need to be sent with each child before the event to cover any costs of admission. Please be mindful of field trips and have your child at care on time if a trip is planned. If we do not leave in a timely manner, it’s often difficult to get what we planned for the trip accomplished—and it

could sometimes cause us to be late getting back or to miss the event altogether. If you are going to be late—we always appreciate a call. If your child will not be attending, and permission has already been given, please call by 8 a.m. so that we can keep on schedule.

Parents are always welcome to drop off children while we are on an outing rather than at Lady Bug’s if this better meets your schedule. This happens often, for example, at Story Time at the library. We participate at the East Library on Union Blvd. A phone call before we leave the house to plan a drop off is appreciated—as we do not always get very good cell phone reception at the Library. If you call and get the answering service, please leave a message as I always carry my cell phone with me on outings. I will return the call as soon as possible. Thank you.

Schedules/Personal Information:Notification of your family’s work/school schedule

is required at date of enrollment. If any changes occur to your schedule, please let us know immediately. If your work number or address changes, or any type of personal information changes (home number / cell number / address, doctor’s name / phone number / address), please let us know immediately so that we can update our records.

If you have a varying schedule for drop off, you are expected to provide a written schedule or call each day by 9 am to let us know when you will be dropping your child off. This is required EACH DAY unless a regular drop-off schedule has been established. Our latest scheduled drop off is just after 9, so if we are planning on going on an outing, we will be leaving shortly after. This is also the time in which we do crafts/coloring/art projects/cooking projects. If your child is not here by 9, keep in mind that you may have to drop off while we are on an outing or that they may miss out on a craft or other

activity. We sometimes go on spur-of the-moment outings to the park, for a walk in the neighborhood, etc…or even our scheduled outing – like the library, so it is imperative that each parent takes responsibility to call before 9 to find out the plans for each day. If you do not call by 9 am, it is possible that we will be gone on an outing. You can reach me any time on my cell phone if we are on an outing. If dropping of before naptime, please do so no later than 1 pm. Thank you.

Personal Items/Appropriate Toys and Equipment:Each child enrolled at Lady Bug’s Child Care will

be assigned a basket in the downstairs hallway and a clip with their name above it by the front door. The baskets are for storage of personal items like shoes, coats, swimsuits, etc… There is also a coat rack for winter coats to be hung on above the bench downstairs. Please do not hang coats on the clips by the front door. The clips are used to display artwork and craft projects as well as communication between Lady Bug’s Child Care and Parents. Newsletters, notes, and receipts will be placed on or written by your child’s clip—so please remember to check these each day as you head out the door.

Please label any personal items with your child’s name. Diapers / wipes / diaper creams / formula / sun block will not be provided by Lady Bug’s Child Care.

Parents are welcome to allow children to bring personal items to use/play with while in care at Lady Bug’s—but please consider the ages of all children in care. Not all toys that your child may have may be age appropriate / safe for other children in care. A good rule of thumb is if a toy is small enough to fit through a toilet paper roll, it is not appropriate to bring to child care because of the choking risk to small children and infants.

We ask that you only bring diapers / wipes for your child to care due to the potentially dangerous

contents of diaper bags (i.e. medicines, creams, etc…) rather than your entire diaper bag. Please hand directly to staff any diaper creams, sun block, or medicines. All personal items must be labeled with your child’s name. Lady Bug’s Child Care is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items.

I regularly check my equipment, toys, and furnishings for safety and value any input and knowledge you may have about recalls or other safety issues. I have signed up for notice of recall for all my toys and equipment—and will be prompt in removing any dangerous toys or equipment from the use of all children in care.

Naps:Naptime is from 2 pm until 4:30 pm. Naptime is

required for all non-school aged children as it is vital to their physical/social/emotional wellbeing and development. Quiet time is required for all school-aged children.

Older children sleep in the bedroom in the basement, and infants under 2 years are put down for naps in the rooms on the lower level. If an older child has a hard time staying quiet with their friends, a bed will be set up in one of the upstairs bedrooms for this child’s nap in order to ensure that the other children are not disturbed. Some children have a more difficult time settling down when other children are in the room. This is not a punishment, but to ensure that each child enrolled gets the rest they require each day.

Quiet time is during the hours of nap time—children can participate in a quiet activity like watching a movie, reading books, coloring, playing quietly downstairs in the playroom, playing outside—or resting if they so desire.

Please resist dropping off or picking up your child during the hours of naptime—if at all possible. When drop offs happen after 1 pm or before 4:30 pm, it

interrupts the children’s schedule. Please be mindful of the other children and the disruption late drop offs or early pick-ups can cause as most of the children sleep in rooms together.

When a child is transitioning from pre-school to school age I will begin to keep them up from an afternoon nap. This transition will happen during the month of June (the first Monday) so that they are adjusted by the time school starts in August. If they still need a bit of a nap, they will be welcome to take one during the transition.

Immunization Records/Health Appraisal Form/OTC Permission Form:

All children enrolled at Lady Bug’s Child Care are currently up to date on all recommended immunizations; therefore I will only enroll children who are also up to date on immunizations. A current copy of your child’s immunization records is required to be given to Lady Bug’s Child Care before care can begin. These records must be updated yearly for children 2 years and older—and for infants, every 3 months until their first birthday, and every 6 months after that (to coincide with well baby checks.) This copy must be an official copy (the yellow list or a copy with the official Colorado Seal. Printouts from the doctor will not suffice.

Upon enrollment, a copy of the “General Health Appraisal Form” must be filled out and signed by you and your doctor and returned to Lady Bug’s. This form must be updated yearly for children 2 years and older—and for infants, every 3 months until their first birthday, and every 6 months after that (to coincide with baby well checks.) If your child school age, a General Health Appraisal must be updated every 3 years after the child’s 7th birthday. If your child is school aged and not yet 7 years old, a yearly update will be required. Along with the General Health Appraisal form, the OTC Permission form must also be

filled out and signed by you and your doctor. This form is to grant permission to use Fever Reducer for fever over 101 degrees or Pain Reliever for general pain like teething or headaches (for no more than 3 consecutive days at a time without additional medical authorization) and for the use of Benadryl in case of allergic reaction in child care. Children often go into seizures due to high fever—so the State of Colorado requires that all child care facilities have on site fever reducers/pain relievers. Children have also been known to suffer unexpected allergic reactions due to bee stings or food allergies, so Lady Bug’s Child Care requires permission for use of Benadryl as well. (A $3 yearly charge for your child’s share of medicine cost is due to Lady Bug’s Child Care as a part of our fees*)

Americans with Disabilities Act:I accept children based on the Americans with

Disabilities Act and try to accommodate each child’s unique needs. However, my home cannot easily accommodate a child in a wheel chair. Due to our previously scheduled activities, I am unable to provide transportation to and from therapy sessions. Our home includes 2 dogs, so if your child has allergies or asthma, this may not be a good fit.

Vacation/Holidays/Birthdays:My family takes vacation every year. We plan 3

weeks off per year, and you will be notified at least 2 weeks in advance if we are planning to take a vacation.

Written notice of your vacation at least 4 weeks before your scheduled vacation is required. Each family enrolled FULL TIME at Lady Bug’s Child Care is allowed a maximum of 1 week (5 business days) for vacation where payment is not required per calendar year. You must be enrolled for at least 6 full months before you can take your unpaid week. Sick days will not be counted as vacation days, as 4 weeks written

notice must be given. If 4 weeks written notice is not received, payment of the days on vacation will be owed to Lady Bug’s Child Care. Written notice must have the following information: Date of letter, Parental Signature, and dates that your child will not be in care at Lady Bugs, and a contact number that you can be reached at in case of emergency here at Lady Bug’s.

If you temporarily (due to job loss or a schedule change) go from a full time position to a part time position (if available), your 1 vacation week cannot be used during that calendar year. You must retain a full time status for at least 6 full months before you can use your vacation week. An amended contract must be signed and terms agreed to in order for care to continue part time.

Only one family will be able to take their vacation week during the same calendar month. If more than one family is planning on taking a vacation at the same time (for example, Christmas time) only the first to turn in the notice of the vacation will be able to use their unpaid week. Multiple families can vacation at the same time, but the unpaid week must be used during a different month—even if your child is actually in care.

If you find that someone has already posted a letter for vacation or if your vacation will be longer than 5 business days, a post dated check must be left at Lady Bug’s Child Care BEFORE you leave on vacation. The check will not be cashed until your regular payment schedule date. If payment is not received on the previously agreed upon payment schedule, late payment fees will be applied to your child care bill.

Lady Bug’s Child Care is closed on New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Lady Bug’s Child Care closes at 2 pm on New Year’s Eve. If your family

celebrates a particular holiday that we are not planning to—we would love it if you shared your tradition with us. I also take our anniversary off or a Monday or Friday (whichever is closer to our actual anniversary) for a long weekend. Our anniversary is June 22nd. If one of the above listed holidays lands on the weekend, Lady Bug’s Child Care will be closed on the observed day, i.e., the Friday before or the Monday to follow the holiday. If a holiday (listed above) falls during the week, the rate for care remains the same. By signing this contract (either part time or full time) you have agreed to pay a weekly rate for the enrollment of your child.

We honor most major holidays with a celebration and like to celebrate the children’s birthdays. Please feel free to bring a treat to be shared with the children to celebrate your child’s birthday—but please let the provider know what type of treat you have in mind so we can keep the children with allergies safe. Parents are welcome to participate in ANY planned activities.

Vacation Subbing:When I go on vacation, I try to provide coverage

so that the daycare can remain open. Coverage is not always available, but I try my hardest to find subs to care for the children in my absence. I offer the opportunity for subbing at the daycare to my currently enrolled families first, and if there are uncovered days remaining, I offer them to the people on my substitute list. I pay (one week’s payment) $150 for trade of services or $100 per day (Cash) as payment for subbing. References are available for all of my substitutes upon request.

Maternity Leave:Lady Bug’s Child Care allows each family enrolled

2 weeks of non-payment during a maternity leave. If you plan on your child being out of care for longer

than 2 weeks due to a maternity leave, payments for those weeks are due. Written notice must have the following information: Date of letter, Parental Signature, and dates that your child will not be in care at Lady Bugs, and a contact number that you can be reached at in case of emergency here at Lady Bug’s.

If you are planning on leaving your spot at Lady Bug’s due to a new baby in the family, 4 weeks written notice must be given so that advertising can begin to fill the spot. If 4 weeks’ notice is not given, regular payment will be due to Lady Bug’s. If no notice is given, payment will be due until your spot is filled (maximum charge of 8 weeks plus late fees). Post dated checks for the weeks off will be due at the time the maternity leave begins. Vacation cannot be used in the same year when a maternity leave has been used and maternity leave does not apply if siblings are enrolled at a part time basis. After taking a maternity leave, you must be enrolled for 12 months full time before using a vacation week.

We cannot guarantee that a spot will be available for you if you become pregnant, but if you have a child currently enrolled at Lady Bug’s and find that you are pregnant, you will be given priority opportunity to claim any unfilled openings for your new baby. In order to reserve your child’s spot, you must pay a fee of $100 per week until the date that your child is actually attending Lady Bug’s. A contract must be submitted with an estimated date of the first week of attendance. At that time, the regular fee of $150 per week goes into effect.

Sick Days/Medication:If your child is ill, please do not bring him/her

into care so that we do not spread the illness to anyone else. Illness includes, but is not limited to the following:

FEVER OVER 100 DEGREES WHEN MEASURED ORALLY OR 101 WHEN MEASURED RECTALLY, NAUSEA, VOMMITING, DIARRHEA MORE THAN 3XS IN A DAY, SORE THROAT, LOSS OF VOICE, HACKING OR CONTINUOUS COUGH, YELLOW OR GREEN RUNNY NOSE, DRAINAGE OF EAR OR EYE, RASH OR BLISTERS, OR HEAD LICE.

If your child has any of the above symptoms, do not bring your child. Children MUST be symptom free for at least a 24 hour period before returning to child care. THIS IS A STATE REGULATION. If your child has been seen by a doctor and symptoms persist, a doctor’s note to ensure that they are not contagious is required to be given to Lady Bug’s before care can resume. Please have respect for the others and do not bring your child if he or she is ill. Please let us know by 8 a.m. if your child is not coming so that we can plan better for the day. This is very important! Lady Bug’s Child Care plans regular outings and activities– so please be respectful and let us know early that you will not be attending if you or your child is ill. Missed days without 4weeks notice require a regular payment. By signing this contract you have agreed to pay a weekly rate.

If your child becomes ill during care hours, I will call you to come pick him/her up. This is expected to happen within ONE HOUR of the call to reduce the risk of spreading the illness to others—with NO EXCEPTIONS. An ill child will be placed in a bedroom away from the others until a parent or guardian arrives to pick him or her up.

If your child is on medication or anything OTC to treat a particular ailment, the medication, written permission from the parent and permission/instruction from your family doctor is required before medication can be administered at child care. This includes electrolyte infused drinks, lotions, creams, or anything that is not covered on

the general OTC form. (See attached Prescription form) All medications must be started at home and must be labeled and in their original containers when brought to child care for dispensing. If your child requires medication of any kind that must be dispensed during the hours of child care—do not place it in his or her basket—but directly hand it to staff. All medications must be stored out of reach of children. All medication will be given back to parents for disposal.

If I become ill, I will send out a group text message or call to all parents by no later than 6 a.m. I try to have coverage for such a thing—but coverage is not always available. All parents must have a back-up in case an emergency comes up. My coverage sitters are: James Finn (my husband), Trisha Miller, and Nicole Disch (currently enrolled child’s parent). References available for all.

Snow Days: IF THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE ISSUES A

BLIZZARD WARNING WE WILL CLOSE. IF LARGE SNOWFALL AMOUNTS ARE EXPECTED FOR NOTEHRN EL PASO COUNTY/COLORADO SPRINGS (6 inches or more) and DISCTIRCT 20 IS CLOSED —WE WILL CLOSE. If we close due to a storm that hits at nighttime—you will receive a group text message or call from me to let you know if we will be closed the next day. If large snowfall amounts are expected during daytime hours—please call to check on conditions in our area to see if it would be wise to leave your work early. There have been times recently where parents were nearly unable to get back to this area to pick up their children, and also where families have nearly been stranded here with us for the night! I strongly suggest staying home if there is any question about being able to traverse the roads safety. If you are aware that your work will be closed —let us know as soon as you find out so that we may better prepare

for the day! We are located in District 20, so whether or not they close should give you an idea of how the conditions are on this side of town. If Lady Bug’s is closed due to weather—regular payment is due. Your contract states that you have agreed to pay a weekly rate.

Emergency Plan:In case of an emergency (fire/flood/tornado), we

have established the play area at the Chapel Hills Mall as our first meeting place. In the event that the mall is unavailable (evacuated, etc…) the second meeting place would be Chuck. E. Cheese on North Academy. In the event that we have an emergency that causes evacuation, all children will be taken there to meet with family members. An emergency kit is always kept in the bus that contains food, water, blankets, and emergency contact information. In the event of a power outage, you will be called to pick up your child.

Discipline Philosophy:Lady Bug’s policy on discipline is to first redirect

inappropriate behavior, and if this method fails, a time out will be given. The child will remain in time out until he or she is calm--and, if developmentally capable, the child can explain why he or she got in time out. At Lady Bug’s, we like to focus on positive reinforcement. Children are rewarded by our “star student” program for “stellar” behavior. Children can earn “stars” many different ways—like doing a good deed, learning to do something new, staying quite at naptime, cleaning up toys, etc… Stars are written on the board by their name on the appropriate day (see stairwell to basement…the dry erase board is hanging there). When 20 stars are earned by a child, they are rewarded by a trip to the dollar store to pick out a toy, a trip to McDonalds for lunch, or some other way the child decides to redeem

his/her points. Parents are welcome to check the board daily to see how their child behaved in care.

Young children can often use hitting or biting as a way to get what they want, to show frustration or to get attention. Most children go through a phase where this is how they attempt to solve problems. If your child hits or bites, you will be notified at work. If your child is bitten or injured by another child in care, you will be notified as well. At Lady Bug’s, we will continue to redirect violent behavior—and appreciate your efforts to do so at home as well. If a child continues to bite or hit other children in care with continual redirection from Lady Bug’s staff or parents—an incident report will be filed with the State. Parents of any child involved will be required to sign and will be given a copy for their records. Suspension or termination of the child care contract is possible. We take the safety of all children enrolled very seriously and will take any action necessary to ensure that child safety remains constant.

Baby Sign Language:I teach all infants enrolled baby sign language to

help communicate with them to help avoid frustration before they are verbal. I teach the sign for “all done”, “sleepy”, “please”, “thank you”, “hurts”, “eat”, and “milk”. If you would like to know more about these signs to be able to use them to communicate at home, I would be happy to teach you!

Potty Training:If your child is going through potty training, or

you are planning to do potty training, please let us know. Diapers (NOT PULL-UPS) are required until the child is not defecating in them, and disposable training pants (pull-ups) are required until the child is fully potty-trained. We are happy to help and encourage you and your child through the process.

Potty training will only be started on children that are ready. A sign that your child is ready for potty training is if they are able to get on the toilet without much assistance, and if able to dress him or herself. (Pulling up his or her own pants/putting shoes and socks on.)

Please do not dress your child in difficult clothing to get undone during potty training, such as overalls and belts, and tie shoes. We suggest trying easy to pull up and down pants like sweats and Velcro shoes for easy on and off. Potty training is not only the time your child learns to use the toilet—but they also learn independence in an abundance of other ways. What an exciting time! Please let us know how your child is doing at home—and any helpful tips that have worked for you at home. We like to incorporate things that work for your family here at care—as each child learns differently.

Extra underwear and changes of clothing (3 sets of pants / shirts / socks / underpants) are required to be kept on our premises during toilet training. Keeping your child’s clothing box stocked is required.

I do not launder soiled clothing from potty training. Items will be placed in a plastic bag and put in your child’s basket. Please replace the soiled items the next day. If your child has no clothes to change into, you will be called and expected to bring a set. Not keeping your child’s clothing box stocked is neglectful and grounds for termination of this child care contract.

Pets:We have two dogs—a Chocolate Labrador named

Molly Brown and a mixed breed named Ridley. Licensing requires that all pets to be certified by a veterinarian and up to date on vaccinations. They are very child friendly. The dogs are kept outside or upstairs during drop-off and pick up times. They love

children and the kids love to interact with them. Our pets are always supervised with the children.

Media Use, TV Watching, Computer time, Music:Permission for your child to participate in Media

(e.g. watch movies/educational children’s television, play learning games on the computer and Tablet, listening to music) must be submitted in writing to Lady Bug’s. (State of Colorado Licensing Regulation) As we are a child care center where TV watching is permitted, permission must be submitted before care can begin. TV watching is limited and care is taken to offer educational programming.

Smoking:Lady Bug’s Child Care is a smoke free

establishment and smoking is not permitted inside the house or on the property of Lady Bug’s Child Care. The provider does not smoke nor does her husband, James.

Dress Code:Please dress your child appropriately for child

care. Pre-school activities are often messy. I do use washable art supplies, but caution never hurts. We spend a lot of time outdoors, and with any activity, your child may become dirty. If you are concerned about an outfit becoming soiled or otherwise damaged, it may be wise to save that outfit for a special occasion and not wear it to child care. When we are participating in an outing away from the house, please remember to dress your child in their red t-shirt.

Safety Seats:Lady Bug’s Child Care will provide and install

proper safety seats for all enrolled children. Seats will be age and weight appropriate. If you prefer a

particular brand, you may leave a seat for use on outings.

Riding in the Bus/Car:Permission for your child to ride in a vehicle

driven by Lady Bug’s Child Care must be submitted in writing.

Meals/Snacks:Lady Bug’s Child Care provides breakfast, lunch

and an afternoon snack. Our menu options are available for parents to preview upon request. Meal time is very important at Lady Bug’s Child Care. The children are encouraged to share their experiences with each other and this is an important time where manners are taught and practiced. Please be sure to mention any food allergies your child might have to the provider as well as documented in the paperwork.

Gerber brand baby food and cereal, Royal Crest brand milk (no growth hormones) for the older children, and organic fruits, vegetables, and meats are offered (unless unavailable). Formula/Breast milk for infants is the responsibility of the parent.

Breakfast is served at 8:30 a.m., lunch at 12:00 p.m. and afternoon snack at 4:45 p.m. If your child is not here by 8:30 am, breakfast will not be prepared for them, unless you have made us aware that they will be coming in time for the meal. If your child is not here by 11:30 am, lunch will not be prepared for them unless you have made us aware that they will be coming in time for the meal. Please feed your child before you come if you are unable to drop off before a designated meal time—so that we can stay on schedule and within the agreement we have with our partner, Southwest Food Program. Thank you.

Please be mindful that other children in care may have been dropped off at opening time—and to make them wait any longer than the scheduled meal times

might not be something that their little tummies can handle.

Please do not send any food or drinks with your child without prior approval through the provider. This often causes fights between the children as they view it as being unfair, and there also might be a child with an allergy. I do not mind if you would like to bring a treat for all the children to share—but please give me a heads up on this as we try to pre-plan our meals through our membership in Southwest Foods.

An optional food and nutrition program is offered through the center. (See enclosed forms) If your child has a particular dietetic need or you prefer a particular brand that is not usually served or covered in the contract, parents are expected to provide an alternative.

If you child has a food allergy, please let us know at the time of enrollment. Every effort will be given in order to keep your child from coming into contact with a food substance that they are allergic to.

At Lady Bug’s we encourage the use of your breast milk for your baby—as it is the healthiest food for baby. You are welcome to bring frozen milk to store at daycare for the use of your child—please place all milk in a leak proof container labeled with your child’s name.

I begin introducing all babies (nursing or formula fed) to the sippy cup starting at age 6 mos. This helps in the transition to the cup during weaning. After the child’s first birthday, I give the child a cup over a bottle exclusively—unless they are having an exceptional time transitioning. If they are having a hard time with the change, I will give them a bottle along with all meals so they do not become dehydrated.

Photographs/Follow us on Facebook:

Permission must be submitted in writing for your child’s picture to be taken while in the care of Lady Bug’s Child Care. Lady Bug’s Child Care has a Facebook page where the photos of activities and happenings at child care are posted for parents to enjoy. If you are interested in following us, just search “lady bug’s child care” and click “LIKE”. These images might also be used on advertisements used by Lady Bug’s Child Care.

Destruction of Property:Destructive behavior is not tolerated at Lady

Bug’s Child Care. Should a toy or any other property be deliberately broken by misuse or willfulness, parents are required to replace the item within 2 weeks. This kind of behavior is not tolerated at Lady Bug’s and is grounds for termination of the contract without notice.

Giving Notice:2 weeks prior notice must be given in writing to

Lady Bug’s Child Care if you are planning to remove your child from enrollment. If notice is not received, a charge in the amount of 2 weeks care will be due along with any late fees until your child’s spot has been filled (up to 8 weeks).

Reporting Child Abuse/Filing a Complaint with DHS:As a professional child care provider, I am required by law to report any suspected child neglect or abuse.

If you suspect child abuse or neglect you can report it to the El Paso County Department of Human Services @ 719.444.5700. Complaints about a family child care home can be made to the Division of Child Care at 303.866.3755 or 1.800.799.5876 or in written form at 1575 Sherman Street, Denver, CO. 80203.

Rules Regulating Child Care Homes:

The official rules regulating child care homes in Colorado can be obtained at the Division of Child Care in written form at 1575 Sherman Street, Denver, CO. 80203. You can access them on their website at www.cdhs.state.co.us./childcare or http://www.sos.state.co.us./CCR.

LADY BUG’S CHILD CARE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE ANY PORTION OF THIS CONTRACT IF A NEED ARISES. VIOLATING ANY PORTION OF THIS CONTRACT IS GROUNDS FOR TERMINATION OF CHILD CARE SERVICES AND CANCELATION OF THE CONTRACT. IF ANYTHING IN THE CONTRACT CHANGES YOU WILL BE ASKED TO SIGN A NEW COPY. ANY CHANGE IN THE CONTRACT WILL BE IMPLEMENTED AT THE BEGINING OF BUSINESS THE FOLLOWING DAY AFTER NOTIFICATION HAS BEEN GIVEN, UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED.