Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare

Office: 206 Laird Drive Suite 100

Toronto, Ontario M4G 3W4

Tel: 416 487 5862

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Website: www.leasidedaycare.com

 

 

 

 

Rolph Road/LeasideDaycare Centre

Parent Handbook

Revised: December 2017

Updated February 2024

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Welcome to Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare Centres

 

Introduction

 

This handbook is an information source for parents of children enrolled in the infant, toddler, pre-school, and school age centres of Rolph Road Daycare that operates business as Leaside Daycare Centres.  It was produced with input from the Executive Directors, Staff, and members of the Rolph Road/Leaside Board. It contains the philosophy behind the policies and procedures of the centres, as well as practical information that parents need. It speaks from those of us at the centres to you, the parents.

Parents are encouraged to review the Policy Handbook, which has more detailed information regarding our policies. The Policy Handbook is available at each of the centres.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Mission Statement

Leaside Daycare Centres recognize each child as a human being worthy of respect and strive to provide the environment and tools and experiences required for each child to grow to his or her individual potential.

2. Philosophy

We provide a warm, loving, and caring atmosphere in which children learn through play and experiences. Children are recognized for their abilities. It is an inclusive, learning environment in which a child can develop and grow at his or her own pace. We provide creative and stimulating activities that encourage social, emotional, intellectual, and physical growth. Our program goals are to nurture independent thought, self-confidence, co-operation, and social skills.

Staff members co-operate to provide harmony throughout the day.

3. Locations and Programs

Main Site - 206 Laird Drive, Toronto

Infants, Toddlers and Pre-school

 

·        This program operates year-round, except for statutory holidays including Easter Monday.

 

Rolph Road School - 31 Rolph Road, Toronto

Pre-School, Kindergarten and School age

 

·        This program operates from September to June, except for statutory holidays including Easter Monday. The Pre-school program operates year-round, except for statutory holidays including Easter Monday.

 

 

St. Anselm School - 182 Bessborough Drive, Toronto

Kindergarten and School age

·        This program operates from September to June, except for statutory holidays including Easter Monday.

 

Summer Camp - 31 Rolph Road, Toronto

Kindergarten and School age up to Grade 4

 

·        This program operates July and August

·        Open to local children, including clients of Rolph and St. Anselm Schools.

·        Camp forms are available online from our website as of February 1st.

 

 

4. Staff

 

All our E.C.E.’s (Early Child Educators) are registered with the college of Early Childhood Educators of Ontario and in compliance with its Code of Conduct and Standards of Practice. Assistant teachers may be qualified or in training to become E.C.E. High school students 18 years of age assist in the late afternoon. Relief staff, when required, are referred by Book Jane or Sentient, organizations that provide "supply teachers" for daycare centres.

All Staff who work directly with our children undergo:

·        A Police Reference Check through the Police Services including vulnerable screening every 5 years.

·        Offence Declaration forms signed annually.

·        Health and Immunization check

·        First Aid/CPR Certification

·        Behavior Management monitoring

·        Workplace Health and Safety - WHMIS

 

Staff are provided with opportunities for additional training on an ongoing basis.

All Staff sign a contract stating that they will not baby-sit children enrolled in any of the daycare centres. This prevents any conflicts that may occur.

Prohibited Practices (please see Behaviour Management Policy for full details)

·        Corporal punishment

·        Harsh or degrading measures which would humiliate, shame, or frighten a child or undermine a child’s self-respect, dignity, or self-worth.

·        Deprivation of basic needs (food, drink, shelter, sleep, toilet use, clothing, or bedding)

·        Isolate a child in a locked or lockable room.

·        Lock or permit to be locked for the purpose of confining a child

·        Physical restraint of the child, such as confining the child to a highchair, car seat, stroller, or other device for the purposes of discipline or in lieu of supervision.

·        Inflicting any bodily harm on children including making children eat or drink against their will.

Volunteers and Students

We may have volunteers and/or students working within the organization throughout the year.  At all times, volunteers and students are under the direction and supervision of Staff.

No volunteers/students are permitted to be left alone with any child.

5. Staff/Child Ratio

We adhere to the staff/child ratio set out in the Childcare and Early Years Act.

6. Curriculum

Our Emergent Curriculum follows the Elect Principles.

Emergent Curriculum is a non-traditional style of teaching that presents children with the gift of discovering the world around them by encouraging them to explore life through their own interests and passions. It is "Child led" or "Child based" learning as opposed to "teacher directed" learning.

Emergent Curriculum is beneficial to your child's development by validating children's curiosity in learning and enabling them to follow their passions; it lets them have the character-building satisfaction of discovering by oneself while focusing on each child's strengths and improving on his or her weaknesses.  It helps create a confident self-assured child hungry and eager to discover the world around them.

Our Staff has embarked on this new style of teaching by being a "co-learner" following the lead of the children. By seeing what interest the children, staff can create a stimulating and explorative program. Co-learning involves observing and documenting daily to gather information, consequentially tailoring a program that promotes a child's natural curiosity for learning through play. Play is a means to early learning that capitalizes on children's natural curiosity and exuberance. Through play children are able to make sense of the world. Ideas and skills become meaningful tools for learning practiced and concepts are understood. Play engages a child's attention when it offers a challenge that is within the child's capacity to master.

Documentation provides tangible evidence of the progression that children and teachers have followed their exploration together.  Outside your child's classroom (Laird location) you will see a chart that displays photos of children with accompanying explanation. Our Interactive Development classroom observation and documentation chart is an example of one of the various documentation tools used as evidence of our observations. The number (i.e. 2.3) is from the Ontario Learning Framework from ELECT. Located beside the chart is a laminated booklet with an in-depth explanation of what the numbers represent.

7. Parent Participation

We encouraged parents to participate in their child's care. Some of the ways you can be involved include:

·        Becoming a member of the parent board or volunteering to assist the board.

·        Attending General Meetings of the membership of Rolph Road Daycare.

·        Joining in the fund-raising activities of the daycare

·        Coming to the daycare celebrations

·        Meeting other parents at social events

·        Attending the Parent/Teacher progress report evening

·        Share information about your home life, culture, Country of birth.

·        Read a story to your child's class.

·        Talk to your child's class about your profession.

 

8. Parent Code of Conduct

A.     Concerns

·        All concerns you would like to communicate to the staff must be done in private, not in front of any children or other parents. If you have spoken with a member of staff and feel your concerns are not being heard, please notify one of the Executive Directors.

·        If you have a concern regarding a situation that includes other children or their parents/guardians, you must speak directly with a staff member, not with the child or children involved or with their parents/guardians.

B.     Abuse

·        Abuse of staff, children, or other adults, will not be tolerated, including any form of threat, shouting, accusation, or intimidation. If a situation occurs where there is suspected case of abuse by a parent/guardian the daycare will follow the steps as set out in the Child Abuse Policy

·        The situation, under careful consideration by the Board of Directors, may be cause for withdrawal from Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare Centres. If this happens, your child/children may remain in care for the four weeks’ notice of withdrawal period, but you must find another person to pick up and drop off.

 

C.     Conflicts of interest

·        Parents are advised that all staff sign an agreement that prohibits them from babysitting any families that have children enrolled in the daycare. To prevent a conflict of interest, staff maintain a professional approach with all families, including not having parents on social media (i.e. facebook). By keeping a professional approach there will not be a cause for parents to feel that staff are showing favoritism towards any family.

 

9.Parent Issues and Concerns Policy and Procedures

 

 RolphRoad/Leaside Daycare Centre

Date Policy and Procedures Established: November 6th 2018

Date Policy and Procedures Updated: Feb 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide a transparent process for parents/guardians, the childcare licensee and staff to use when parents/guardians bring forward issues/concerns.

Definitions

Licensee: The individual or agency licensed by the Ministry of Education responsible for the operation and management of each childcare centre it operates (i.e. the operator).

 

Staff: Individual employed by the licensee (e.g. program room staff).

 

Policy

General

Parents/guardians are encouraged to take an active role in our childcare centre and regularly discuss what their child(ren) are experiencing with our program. As supported by our program statement, we support positive and responsive interactions among the children, parents/guardians, childcare providers and staff, and foster the engagement of and ongoing communication with parents/guardians about the program and their children. Our staff are available to engage parents/guardians in conversations and support a positive experience during every interaction.

All issues and concerns raised by parents/guardians are taken seriously by Rolph Rd/Leaside Daycare and will be addressed. Every effort will be made to address and resolve issues and concerns to the satisfaction of all parties and as quickly as possible.

Issues/concerns may be brought forward verbally or in writing. Responses and outcomes will be provided verbally, or in writing upon request. The level of detail provided to the parent/guardian will respect and maintain the confidentiality of all parties involved.

An initial response to an issue or concern will be provided to parents/guardians within Five (5) business day(s). The person who raised the issue/concern will be kept informed throughout the resolution process.

Investigations of issues and concerns will be fair, impartial, and respectful to the parties involved.

Confidentiality

Every issue and concern will be treated confidentially, and every effort will be made to protect the privacy of parents/guardians, children, staff, students, and volunteers, except when information must be disclosed for legal reasons (e.g. to the Ministry of Education, College of Early Childhood Educators, law enforcement authorities or a Children’s Aid Society).

Conduct

Our centre maintains high standards for positive interaction, communication, and role-modeling for children. Harassment and discrimination will therefore not be tolerated by any party.

If at any point a parent/guardian, provider or staff feels uncomfortable, threatened, abused, or belittled, they may immediately end the conversation and report the situation to the supervisor and/or licensee.

Concerns about the Suspected Abuse or Neglect of a child

Everyone, including members of the public and professionals who work closely with children, is required by law to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect. 

If a parent/guardian expresses concerns that a child is being abused or neglected, the parent will be advised to contact the local Children’s Aid Society (CAS) directly.

Persons who become aware of such concerns are also responsible for reporting this information to CAS as per the “Duty to Report” requirement under the Child and Family Services Act.

For more information, visit http://www.children.gov.on.ca/htdocs/English/childrensaid/reportingabuse/index.aspx

Procedures

Nature of Issue or Concern	Steps for Parent and/or Guardian to Report Issue/Concern:	Steps for Staff and/or Licensee in responding to issue/concern:
Program Room-Related E.g: schedule, sleep arrangements, toilet training, indoor/outdoor program activities, feeding arrangements, etc.	Raise the issue or concern to -        the classroom staff directly or -        the supervisor or licensee.	-        Address the issue/concern at the time it is raised or -        arrange for a meeting with the parent/guardian within five (5)  business days. Document the issues/concerns in detail. Documentation should include: -        the date and time the issue/concern was received. -        the name of the person who received the issue/concern. -        the name of the person reporting the issue/concern. -        the details of the issue/concern; and -        any steps taken to resolve the issue/concern and/or information given to the parent/guardian regarding next steps or referral. Provide contact information for the appropriate person if the person being notified is unable to address the matter. Ensure the investigation of the issue/concern is initiated by the appropriate party within 5 business days or as soon as reasonably possible thereafter. Document reasons for delays in writing. Provide a resolution or outcome to the parent(s)/guardian(s) who raised the issue/concern.
General, Centre- or Operations-Related E.g: child care fees, hours of operation, staffing, waiting lists, menus, etc.	Raise the issue or concern to -        the supervisor or licensee.
Staff-, Duty parent-, Supervisor-, and/or Licensee-Related	Raise the issue or concern to -        the individual directly or -        the supervisor or licensee.   All issues or concerns about the conduct of staff, duty parents, etc. that puts a child’s health, safety and well-being at risk should be reported to the supervisor as soon as parents/guardians become aware of the situation.
Student- / Volunteer-Related	Raise the issue or concern to -        the staff responsible for supervising the volunteer or student. or -        the supervisor and/or licensee. -          All issues or concerns about the conduct of students and/or volunteers that puts a child’s health, safety and well-being at risk should be reported to the supervisor as soon as parents/guardians become aware of the situation.

 

Escalation of Issues or Concerns: Where parents/guardians are not satisfied with the response or outcome of an issue or concern, they may escalate the issue or concern verbally or in writing to the Executive Directors.

 

Issues/concerns related to compliance with requirements set out in the Childcare and Early Years Act., 2014 and Ontario Regulation 137/15 should be reported to the Ministry of Education’s Childcare Quality Assurance and Licensing Branch.

 

Issues/concerns may also be reported to other relevant regulatory bodies (e.g. local public health department, police department, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Labour, fire department, College of Early Childhood Educators, Ontario College of Teachers, College of Social Workers etc.) where appropriate.

 

 

10. Nutrition

Menus are planned by a qualified dietician and meet all requirements by Children's Services (Early Learning and Care Assessment for Quality Improvement) and the Canada Food Guide.

 

Menus are posted in each classroom. A sample of the menus are posted on our website.

 

We have two in-house cooks one at Rolph and the other at 206 Laird. Each has their food-handling certificate through Public Health. We also have additional staff that have food handling certificates. They replace our cooks when necessary.

 

 

Birthdays

 

For birthdays the child and his/her group help to prepare a low sugar simple cake.

 

Food Allergies and Special Diets

 

If your child has food allergies, please discuss them with the supervisor of the centre.

Many allergies can be accommodated in the regular meal program.

Individual menus are made for children with food allergies with help from parents.

 

In some cases, you will be asked to provide your own food (e.g breast milk/formula).

Any food coming into the daycare must be in a labelled container, stating the child’s full name, date, and full list of ingredients.

 

The daycare makes every effort to serve only foods that do not contain peanuts or other nut products.

 

 

11. Diapers and Change of Clothes

 

Diapers are provided for children in the infant and toddler rooms. You will need to provide diaper creams etc. to be used. Please make sure that they are clearly labelled with your child's name.

 

Please note prescription creams etc. will require that you complete a medical form. Creams must include a doctor's note or prescription on the label.

 

Your child's teacher will discuss toileting with you when your child shows signs of toilet readiness, we will work out a plan on how you would like to proceed with the toilet training. We will offer suggestions that may work. While children are training, please provide extra clothing.

 

Please provide outdoor play clothes appropriate to the weather.

During the winter scarves are forbidden items of clothing given their potential danger with outside play equipment. You will be notified if special clothing (for example bathing suits) is required.

 

 

12. Clothing Identification

Please label all your child's clothing, including boots, shoes, hats, mittens etc. It is easy to get children's clothing mixed up. Children often need to change or remove clothing after messy activities, outside activities and water play etc.

For an easy, hassle-free solution consider purchasing labels for your child's clothing and shoes.

 

13. Illnesses and Accident         

 

 We will call if your child gets sick during the day, and we require a prompt response

 

The daycare's illness policy is designed to minimize the risk of exposure to illness that your child faces. Consequently, children are not permitted to attend the centre if they have:

·        A communicable disease

Any child with a communicable disease, i.e. whooping cough, or measles, must be kept at home for the full period required by Public Health regulations. A DOCTORS NOTE MAY BE REQUIRED FOR RE-ADMITTANCE INTO THE DAYCARE PROGRAM. DEPENDING UPON THE CURRENT GOVERNMENT HEALTH POLICY.

·        A rash or skin infection

If your child shows unusual skin condition such as a rash, or sores (other than a diaper rash) it is required that.

      1) The child does not attend the Daycare, and

      2) The child sees a doctor.

A DOCTOR'S NOTE STATING THAT THE CONDITION IS NOT CONTAGIOUS IS REQUIRED FOR YOUR CHILD TO BE RE-ADMITTED TO THE DAYCARE PROGRAM.

·        A fever

If your child has a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8’c) or higher, we require that he/she not attend the Daycare as a fever usually indicates an infection. When a child is feverish, they are not usually able to participate in daily routines. YOUR CHILD CANNOT RETURN TO THE DAYCARE UNTIL HE or SHE HAS BEEN FEVER FREE FOR 24 HOURS (NOT JUST OVER NIGHT), WITHOUT THE AID OF FEVER REDUCING MEDICATION. Though many children look fine when they wake up in the morning, the fever usually returns in the mid to late afternoon, confirming they are still ill.

 

·        Diarrhea or Vomiting                                  

               If your child experiences TWO OR MORE INCIDENTS OF DIARRHEA OR VOMITING WHILE

               AT THE DAYCARE, YOU WILL BE CALLED TO PICK UP YOUR CHILD. If this occurs at    

               home, we request that you do not bring your child into the Daycare. Your child may return to       

               the daycare after she or he has not vomited or had diarrhea for 24 hours (not just over night) to        

               ensure that your child is well enough to participate in the program.

 

·        Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

 

If your child exhibits discharge from the eyes, he/she is not able to attend the Daycare.

unless they have been treated with antibiotic eye drops.

 

·        Antibiotics

 

               If your child has been sent home with a high fever and is diagnosed with an infection and 

               requires antibiotics, we recommend that your child be at home for 24 hours. This will allow the       

              medication to take effect before he or she returns to Daycare.

 

·        Head Lice

 

If your child is found to have head Lice while at the Daycare you will be called to pick up your child. Your child will be allowed back to the Daycare after treatment and all lice/nits have been removed from his or her hair.

(We will provide literature from the Health Department when we have any cases of lice).

 

·        Children sent home due to illness will not be able to attend the daycare the following day or longer, depending on illness.

             

 

14. Accidents

 

Minor Accidents

 

Despite all our precautions, accidents can occur.

a)      If at any time a child is injured while at the Centre, the Staff will assess the child immediately.

b)     A Staff member will treat all minor bumps, bruises, and cuts.

c)      An incident report will be filled in by staff.

d)     Parents will be notified by phone, (or at pick-up) of the incident.

e)     Parents will be asked to read and sign the incident report.

f)       Once the report is signed, a copy will be sent to the parents by email through Lillio.

g)      The original report is then placed in the child’s file.

 

Emergency

 

a)      If at any time, due to an accident, sudden illness or emergency and medical treatment is required, the Centre will call 9-1-1 to expedite medical treatment.

b)      Parents/emergency contacts will be contacted.

c)      If no contact can be made with the parents or emergency contacts, a staff will escort the child in an ambulance to hospital, along with the child’s file.

d)     Every effort will be made to continue contacting parents or emergency contact until reached. They will be asked to meet us at the hospital.

e)     All staff working at the Centre have standard first aid/CPR level c certification.

f)       An injury report will be completed.

g)      Parents will be asked to read and sign injury report.

h)     Once the report is signed a copy is sent to the parents by email through Lillio.

i)       The original report is then placed in the child’s file.

 

 

Serious Occurrence

 

When a serious occurrence happens, a report is sent to the Ministry of Education. A written report is posted on the Parent Board for all parents to read. This report is posted for 10 days following the serious occurrence.

 

15. Medication

 

Medication must be in its original container and must be clearly labeled. Please put the medication in the medicine box in the fridge or cupboard.

Parents must fill in the medication chart with their child's name, medicine, dose, and the time it must be given. R.E.C.E staff will administer the medicine and be observed by a second member of staff. Both staff will initial the medication chart. Please discuss medical procedures, such as wound dressing, eye drops, respiratory masks etc. with the Directors/Supervisor.

 

Note: A doctor's authorization is required for any non-prescription medication.

 

PLEASE READ OUR SICKNESS AND ACCIDENT POLICY IN OUR POLICY HANDBOOK. (ON OUR WEB SITE OR LOCATED AT EACH OF OUR LOCATIONS).

 

16.  Hours and Holidays

 

All the centres are open from 7.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. Monday through Friday, (St. Anselm’s opens at 7:15a.m.). Except for statutory holidays and Easter Monday.

 

·        New Year’s Day

·        Family Day

·        Good Friday

·        Easter Monday

·        Victoria Day

·        Canada Day

·        Civic Holiday

·        Labour Day

·        Thanksgiving

·        Christmas Day

·        Boxing Day

 

17. Late Pick-Up

 

Please make every effort to pick your child up by 6 p.m., as late pick up is very stressful for your child. Telephone or email ahead if possible. A late fine of $1.00 per minute after 6 p.m. is charged on your monthly invoice.

 

18. Arrival

 

Please assist your child in putting his or her coat and personal belongings in his or her locker. Help your child get involved in the group activity, playing with a favorite toy etc. Use whatever techniques you find best to help your child make the transition from home to centre.

Please let staff know your child has arrived, bring them into the classroom once removing outdoor clothing. Let the staff know any information that is helpful, for example, noting a poor night's sleep, your child being picked up by a relative, or any other information that would be important to the staff in caring for your child.

 

19. Departure

 

Departure time is smoothest when you allow your child to finish his or her activity before leaving. It also shows the child that you value what he/she does and that you share his or her pride in their accomplishments. Use whatever techniques you find to help you and your child/ren gather his or her belongings.

 

Only the people you have designated on your admission forms may take your child from the centre. You must give the centre specific written and dated instructions to permit someone else to pick up your child. Please ensure that the designated persons have ID in the event staff has not met them.

N.B. All designated persons must be 18 years of age or older.

 

20. Absence

 

Parent/guardians must notify the Daycare by 9:30 a.m. if their child will be absent and give a reason for the absence, i.e. illness. Day off/vacation.

When the Daycare has not received information by 9:30 regarding a change in drop-off, they will follow the Safe Arrival and Dismissal Policy and Procedure.

 

21. Safe Arrival and Dismissal Policy

 

Purpose

This policy and the procedures within help support the safe arrival and dismissal of children receiving care.

The policy will provide staff, students, and volunteers with a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities for ensuring the safe arrival and dismissal of children receiving care, including what steps are to be taken when a child does not arrive at the childcare centre as expected, as well as steps to follow to ensure the safe dismissal of children.

This policy is intended to fulfil the obligations set out under Ontario Regulation 137/15 for policies and procedures regarding the safe arrival and dismissal of children in care.

 

Policy

General

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare centres will ensure that any child receiving care at any of our locations is only released to the child’s parent/guardian or an individual that the parent/guardian has provided written authorization the childcare centre may release the child to.

The Daycare will only dismiss children into the care of their parent/guardian or another authorized individual, who must be at least 18 years old.

When a child does not arrive in care as expected or is not picked up as expected, staff must follow the safe arrival and dismissal procedures as set out below.

 

Procedures

For Parents/Guardian: When a child is absent, or care instructions change:

When a child will not be attending childcare parents/guardians must:

·       Contact the Daycare by 9:30am. Parents can send a message through Lillio, email the daycare at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 416-487-5862 for the Laird location and St. Anselm’s, 416-421-3862 for the Rolph Rd location. The message must include.

Ø  Child’s name

Ø  Class child is in

Ø  Date/dates of absence

Ø  Reason for absence

·       Voicemail and email are accessible 24 hours a day and will be checked daily.

·       If there is a change to the child’s pick-up procedure, it is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to communicate this to the childcare staff.

·       Where there are legal custody documents, it is the responsibility of the main caregiver to provide us with a copy of the court documents which we will keep on file and follow release of the child/children accordingly.

 

For Staff: Accepting a child into care.

When accepting a child into care at the time of drop-off, program staff in the room must:

·       Greet the parent/guardian and child.

·       Ask the parent/guardian how the child’s evening/morning has been.

·       For any changes to pick up, staff are to ask parents/guardian to send a message through their Lillio account, email the daycare, or leave a voice message on the phone, stating who they give permission to pick up, and date.

·       Document the change to pick up procedure in the classroom daily written communication book.

·       Sign the child in on the classroom attendance sheet.

 

 

 

 

Where a child has not arrived in care as expected.

 

When a child does not arrive at the daycare by 9:30 a.m. and the parent/guardian has not communicated a change in drop-off, the staff in the classroom must:

·       Send a message through the Lillio account to the parent/guardian no later than 10am.

·       Let the Supervisor know which child is not in attendance and that a message has been sent to the parent/guardian.

·       Monitor Lillio for response from parent/guardian.

·       The Supervisor will check the telephone for voice messages and relay any messages to staff of absent children if applicable.

·       Once the child’s absence has been confirmed, staff in the room shall document the child’s absence on the attendance sheet, as well as in Lillio. Any additional information about the child’s absence is written in the class communication book.

·       As the child’s safety is the highest priority, if the daycare is unable to reach the parent/guardian to confirm the child’s absence parents will be reminded of this policy.

·       For children attending before and after care, parents are to send a message through Lillio, email or voicemail if child will be absent.

Where a child has not arrived in care after the school day ends.

·       We recognize that children who are signed up to attend AM care before the start of school, may not always arrive before the school bell goes. Attendance will be taken as children arrive. If they do not arrive before school, staff will mark them absent for the AM portion of the day.

·       When children return to the program at the end of the school day, staff will do attendance for their group. If a child has not arrived at the program and no message is received, staff will first go to the school office to confirm if the child was in attendance or not. If the child was in attendance but did not arrive, staff will send a message through Lillio letting the parent/guardian know that the child did not arrive to the program.

·       If no message is received within 15 minutes, the staff shall advise the program supervisor, who will then call the parents/guardian to let them know.

 

Releasing a child from care.

The staff who is supervising the child at the time of pick-up shall only release the child to the child’s parent/guardian or individual that the parent/guardian has provided authorization either by Lillio, email or voicemail, that the childcare may release the child to.

Where the staff does not know the person picking up the child

·       Confirm with another staff member that the individual picking up is the child’s parent/guardian/authorized individual.

·       Where this is not possible, ask the parent/guardian/authorized individual for photo identification and confirm the individual’s information against the parent/guardian/authorized individual’s name on the child’s file or written authorization.

 

Where a child has not been picked up as expected (before the centre closes).

Where a parent/guardian has previously communicated with the staff a specific time or timeframe that their child is to be picked up from daycare and the child has not been picked up, the program staff shall contact the parent/guardian by phone/Lillio and advise them that the child has not been picked up.

·       Where the staff is unable to reach the parent/guardian within 30 minutes of initial call/voicemails/Lillio message, staff must contact the next person on the child’s list of who they can be released to and inquire if pick-up instructions have changed.

·       Where the staff have not heard back from the parent/guardian or authorized individual who was to pick up the child, the staff shall try to contact the emergency contact as listed in the child’s file.

·       Where the child has not been picked up by the time the centre closes, the staff will follow procedure “Where a child has not been picked up and the centre is closed” (below).

 

 

Where a child has not been picked up and the centre is closed

·       Where a parent/guardian or authorized person who was supposed to pick up a child from care has not arrived by closing time, staff shall ensure that the child is given an activity to engage in, while waiting to be picked up.

·       Staff will call the parent/guardian to advise that the child is still at the daycare and inquire about their pickup time. In the case where the person picking up the child is an authorized individual; the staff shall contact the parent/guardian first and then proceed to contact the authorized individual responsible for pick-up if unable to reach the parent/guardian.

·       If the staff is unable to reach the parent/guardian or authorized individual who was responsible for picking up the child, the staff shall contact the emergency contact as listed in child’s file.

·       Where the staff is unable to reach the parent/guardian, or any authorized individual listed on the child’s file by 6:30 p.m. the staff shall contact the Executive Directors, or the Program supervisor.

·        If, by 7:00 p.m. and not been able to reach parents/guardian or emergency contacts, staff will contact the local Children’s Aid Society (CAS). When calling CAS, staff shall document worker’s name and time of call. Staff will follow the CAS’s directions with respect to the next steps and document these in the communication logbook, which will include details regarding the call. Staff must also update the Executive Director/Supervisor as soon as possible when the child was picked up and by whom.

·       While the child waits with the staff, he/she shall be comforted, given a snack, drink as needed. For late pickups within the TDSB/TCDSB, the caretaking staff will be notified of the late pickup.

 

Dismissing a child from care without supervision procedures.

Staff will only release children from care to the parent/guardian or other authorized adult (who must be 18years of age or older). Children will not be released to walk home alone.

 

22. Winter Rules

 

On Snowy or slushy days, please remove your boots or shoes at the entrance to the centres to avoid tracking in snow.

 

23. Fees

 

Deposit: Fifty per cent of a month's fee is held on deposit. A non-refundable membership/registration fee of $45.00 will be charged.  After giving one month's notice in writing to the office, your deposit will be subtracted from your final invoice.

 

Fees: Fee memos are posted in each centre and on our website. Parents will be given a copy of the fees upon registering their child.

 

Payment of Fees:  Fees are due by the first of the month. All parents are to sign up for the electronic funds transfer.  Invoices will be sent out at least one week before withdrawal from your account. Please check your invoice and notify the Executive Directors of any discrepancies.

 

Illness or Vacation:  There is no deduction of fees when a child is absent for illness or vacation.

 

N.S.F through E.F.T: Payments that do not go through due to N.S.F. will have an additional $20.00 administration fee charged including any bank charges.

 

 

24. Income Tax Receipts

 

Income tax receipts are provided in February at each location. There will be an administration fee of $10.00 if replacement receipts are requested. If you withdraw your child from the centre during the year, the receipt will be mailed to you.

 

25. Fee Increase

 

The board of Directors review the fees annually.

Revised schedules are posted in advance, stating when the fee changes will be in effect.

 

 

 

 

26. Special Arrangements during Maternity and Parental leave.

 

Children who are enrolled at the Laird location may continue part time while their mothers are on maternity leave or if a parent is on parental/adoptive leave. Please discuss arrangements with the Executive Directors. In these circumstances, fees are charged daily, equivalent to the monthly rate for the child's group.

 

27. Part-time Attendance

      Full days (part week) Laird Location only

 

Arrangements may be made in writing to the Executive Directors for a child to attend the daycare for specific days of each week. Payments must be made at the start of each month for the number of days booked. (Days cannot be change unless requested in writing and approved by the Executive Directors)

 

In relation to Rolph Road School Age and Kindergarten Children the fee structure is a monthly rate and may include lunch services if selected. All P.A. days, Christmas break and March break are included in the monthly rate.

 

St. Anselm School Age and Kindergarten fee structure is a monthly rate including all instructional days and non-instructional days, billed on the first of each month.  All P.A. days, Christmas break and March break are included in the monthly rate.

 

28. Naps

 

Infants nap throughout the day, according to their individual routines. Each baby has his/her own crib.

Staff perform direct visual checks of sleeping children by being physically present and checking the colour of the infant lips, cheeks, and breathing.

 

Parents are advised that Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare Centres are obligated to ensure that children under 12 months of age are placed for sleep in a manner consistent with recommendations set out in the “Joint Statement of Safe Sleep” (i.e. placed on their back), unless a child’s physician recommends otherwise in writing.

 

Toddlers and preschoolers nap between 12.00 and 2.00. Children who are unable to sleep are given quiet activities.

 

Preschoolers at the Rolph Rd location nap between 12:30 -2:00. Meeting with parents to discuss nap time for older preschoolers may happen in preparation of the children moving into Full Day Kindergarten.

 

29. Fire Drills and Inspections

 

Fire drills are conducted monthly and recorded in our logbook. There are fire alarms and fire extinguishers on each floor.

 

Fire Inspections for all the emergency lighting and equipment are conducted each year by a trained technician, in accordance with the Ontario Fire Code.

 

30. Emergency Management Policy and Procedure

 

This policy outlines clear directions for staff and licensees to follow to deal with emergency situations. The procedures set out steps for staff to follow to support the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

In the event of an emergency parents will be notified by email or by phone. The message on the phone voicemail will be changed as often as possible with updates for parents.

Please see the Policy and Procedure manual for more information.

 

31. Traditions of Rolph Road and Leaside Daycare Centres

 

Annual Funfair: Each year, we plan a funfair for parents and children in June. Games, activities, food, music, and raffle prizes to be won. Parents are encouraged to get involved, bring their children, and enjoy.

 

Parent Interviews:  Spring is the perfect time to get together with the parents to discuss the children's progress and to talk about their children's goals for the rest of the year.

 

Class Pictures: In the fall a professional photographer holds photo sessions at each of our locations. You have the option of purchasing your child's package, which includes individual portraits of your child, as well as a "class picture". The date of the pictures will be posted well in advance so you can select the clothing for the picture.

 

Holiday Party:  We always have a special snack for parents and children around December. The children participate in singing songs including Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanza.

St. Anselm's and Rolph like to put on a special treat for the parents also and will perform a small production of their choice.

 

32. Outside Play

 

As set out in the Childcare and Early Years Act, any programs running for more than 6 hours per day are required to plan at least 2 hours of outside play. There is a schedule posted of times each group have outside time. On days when children are not able to go outside (raining, smog alert, too cold etc.) alternate activities are planned in the gross motor room for all groups. 

 

33. Field Trips

 

Field trips are organized for all children aged 2 and up. The infants are taken around the neighborhood in their strollers. All parents are required to sign a consent form for all trips.

A.     The consent form will include,

·        Where they are going

·        The date they are going.

·        Time of departure

·        Time of arrival back to the daycare

·        Anything that the child may need for the trip.

B.     Infant/toddlers go on neighborhood walks.

C.      Pre-school groups go on neighborhood walks which could include the public library, Fire station, pet store etc.

D.     Kindergarten and school age children plan field trips away from the area. School buses are rented or the TTC used.

 

34. Transition (Break-In Schedule) Infant, Toddlers and Preschool.

 

Transitions into the daycare are done based on the child's individual schedule and needs. We request at least one week for the parent/guardian to be available to make the transition as smooth as possible.

 

Day 1:  1hr.-1.5hr. visit parent and child together.

 

Day 2:  1h.-1.5hr. visit without parent

 

Day 3.  3hrs.-4hrs visit usually involving naptime.

 

Day 4.  5hrs.-6.hrs visit.

 

Day 5.  Whatever the child's regular hours at daycare are going to be.

 

This schedule is a guideline only and could be modified/adjusted based on individual needs of the child.

 

 

35.Transfer Schedule

(From the toddlers to the Pre-school)

 

Due to changes in staff ratio between the toddler and Pre-school Groups, children will experience a significant change when moving from each room. Parents should familiarize themselves with the routines, teachers, and program before transferring their child from the toddlers to the pre-school room.

 

Please Note: Even if your child is 30 months, our Pre-School Program may be full and therefore, an automatic transfer will not be possible.

 

Subsidy Families: The City of Toronto will only allow your child to remain in the Toddler Program for 2 months after he/she turns 30 months. At that time, we may not have a space in our Pre-School, therefore, you may have to withdraw from Leaside Daycare or pay full fee. This will be done in negotiation with the City of Toronto, Children's Services.

 

Letters will be given to the parents letting them know that the child is ready to be transferred and there is space available.

 

 

 

 

 

 

36. Pre-School to Kindergarten

 

If your child is eligible to attend Rolph Road Public School or St. Anselm's Catholic Kindergarten, you may enroll for Leaside Daycare Centre's before and after school care. Enrollment begins in January for the TCDSB and February for the TDSB.

 

Please Note: Leaside Daycare Centre's 3rd Party contract with both the TDSB and the TCDSB before and after is negotiated annually. It is dependent on the number of families requiring care in any given year.

 

 

37. Kindergarten to School Age

 

If your child attends Sr. Kindergarten, in order to attend Leaside Daycare's School age in either Rolph Road Public School or St. Anselm's Catholic School you will be required to enroll for the program in February, the year your child will attend Grade 1.

 

38. Summer Camp

 

The Infant, Toddler and Pre-School programs operate year-round.

 

 We offer care in the summer for our Kindergarten and School Age Children.

 

Registration forms are available on our website in February of each year.

 

Please Note: This program is open to children not enrolled in Leaside Daycare and space is limited, please make sure your enrolment is in early.

 

39. Privacy

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare Centres is committed to protecting the privacy of personal information of its service recipients, members, and other stakeholders. All personal information is dealt with according to the principles of transparency and accountability. All personal information that is collected is carefully protected in accordance with the privacy act.

 

During the normal course of administrative processes, it may be necessary to release certain information about students and/or families to the provincial regulators. Children may be videotaped or photographed at Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare Centres and the videos or photographs may be used at the centre only and will not be distributed or published (via the internet or any other means) without written consent of the Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare Centres and/or parents.

 

40. Admission Policy

 

To apply for Daycare a waiting list application form must be filled out.  Waiting List forms can be filled out on our website or by email or dropped off in person at 206 Laird Drive.

 

Once a space has been confirmed you will be contacted, and a deposit and membership/registration fee will be required to guarantee your spot.

 

Once your space has been guaranteed you will receive the application package. All relevant forms are required to be filled out before your child's start date.

 

For Infants, Toddlers and Pre-School the supervisor will discuss the start date and break-in period for the child.  Once your deposit has been received any cancellation requires three months’ notice to receive a refund of the deposit. Parents are also advised that any change of start date will be accommodated if possible but is not guaranteed and three months’ notice is required.

 

N.B. Handbooks are available on our website (www.leasidedaycare.com) and there is a hard copy at each of our locations.

 

41.Waiting list Policy

 

 There are three ways to get on our waiting list:

a)      Online at www.leasidedaycare.com

b)     Fill out a waiting list application form at any of our 3 locations.

c)      Call 416 487 5862 and provide your information.

How our waiting list works:

1.      Each age group at each Centre has its own individual waiting list.

2.      The day you call, leave a message, or send in through the website will be your seniority date on the waiting list.

3.      All of our waiting list applications are imputed into the “Daycare Waitlist App.”

4.      Spaces are created when a family leaves by providing us with one-month written notice. Once this has been confirmed we can begin calling families that are eligible to start in the age group that has become available.

5.      Siblings of current families will have priority. They are still required to fill out the waiting list application form and submit it to the office.

6.      Once a family is called from the waiting list they are given 48 hours to return the call and express continued interest in the space provided

7.      From the families that return our call within the 48 hours, the family who is the highest on the wait list will be given first refusal.

8.      Once the space has been officially offered there is ½ month deposit required of your child’s fee for the age group. The deposit is refundable and will be returned on your child’s last month of care, provided that the appropriate notice is given. There is also a $25.00 membership and $20.00 registration fee which are non-refundable.

9.      For those families that expressed continued interest in the space by returning our call will be notified that the space was filled by a family who was higher on the wait list than them.

10.   Everyone will remain on our list until you have asked us specifically to be removed. Our Daycare list will automatically move you to the next age group when appropriate.

11.    You may call or come by the office to check the status of your waitlist. The Executive Directors or Supervisor will show or tell you where you are on the list.

12.   It is the parents’ responsibility to call or e-mail Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare to bring changes to their contact information.  

 

42. Withdrawal Policy

 

Written notice of intention to withdraw the child must be given by the parent(s) to the centre no less than 1 month (the 1st of the month) in advance of date of withdrawal. Failure to give such notice will result in retention of the deposit in lieu of notice.

 

Withdrawal by Centre

 

1) Non-payment of childcare fees will result in immediate withdrawal of child.

 

2) Every effort is made to ensure a space when your child is ready to transfer into the next age group. If       there are no spaces available notice will be given to the parents advising them of the date of withdrawal.

 

3) When children are withdrawn due to the centre's inability to accommodate the child's needs the procedure will include:

      a) Documentation of meeting with parents

      b) Children's services Consultant notified

      c) Board notified

      d) Outside agency involvement where appropriate.

 

43. Non-Discrimination/Anti Racism Policy

 

Incorporated with the Centres philosophy that each person is a human being entitled to respect, we state that it is our aim to provide quality childcare without bias, judgement, or discrimination to children and their families.

 

We maintain an environment of equality for everyone and treat staff, children, family members, board members and visitors with dignity and respect regardless of the person's race, ancestry, place of origin, color, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion, sex, sex orientation, age, marital status, family status or physical abilities.

 

The services of Leaside Daycare Centres are offered to all children between the ages 3 months and 12 years of age, if there is a physical space available in the child's particular age group and that satisfactory fee payment arrangements can be made.

 

 

 

44. Planned and Unplanned Closures

 

There may be occasions in which safety concerns will cause us to close the Centre. (Flood, severe weather, pandemic, TDSB or TCDSB school strike/closure, etc.) In these circumstances, as we will continue to have the same financial responsibilities, fees will not be refunded for the first 2 weeks of closure. If closed for more than 2 weeks, parents will not be charged fees until the daycare is clear to reopen.

     

Closure Communication

 

Early or non-planned closure: We will contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Planned Closure: We will contact you via e-mail or there will be written notices on your cubbies.

Please check the radio or television news for updates on closures due to the weather conditions.

 

WE WILL LEAVE ANY UPDATE INFORMATION ON THE ANSWERING MACHINES AT LEASIDE DAYCARE MAIN OFFICE:  416- 487-5862 OR ROLPH ROAD DAYCARE 416-421-3862 OR ST. ANSELM 416-524-3268

 For parents attending Rolph Road or St. Anselm:              

Information will also be found on the TDSB or TCDSB websites www.tdsb.on.ca or www.tcdsb.org.

 

Inclement Weather

 

If the TDSB and/or TCDSB close due to inclement weather, the Daycare will close all 3 locations.

 

45. PARKING (206 LAIRD DRIVE)

WE HAVE LIMITED PARKING SPACE AT 206 LAIRD DRIVE.

 

1. Please pull right up to the fence so someone can park behind you

2. If you have parked behind someone, please be considerate and do a quick drop off

3. If you do not wish to be blocked in for a couple of minutes please park on the street.

4. Your patience and consideration is imperative to have a safe and stress-free drop-off and pick up.                                                            

46. History

Founded in 1971, Leaside Daycare Centres (LDCC) provided a service for infants that was almost non-existent in Toronto at the time. The original site, in the lower level of a duplex on Laird Drive, provided space for 12 children. Expansion was imperative.

In 1972, 100 McRae was purchased to provide infant care to 35 children. The residential setting was deliberately chosen and provided an ideal setting for babies and a pleasant area for their walks.

The Pre-School Division opened in 1975 at 73 Fleming at the request of parents interested in continuing care beyond age 2.5. Again, a residential setting was chosen, and space provided for 35 children, aged 2.5 to 5 years.

In 1984, a group of parents from the Fleming Centre organized a non-profit group and petitioned the Board of Education of East York to provide space for school age daycare in Leaside. Space was provided at Rolph Road School for 40 children from kindergarten through grade 4. Rolph Road Daycare a non-profit organization employed L.D.C.C to operate and staff the program.

In October 1994, after a process of more than a year, L.D.C.C converted to non-profit centres. By way of a government program, L.D.C.C. was purchased from Rolph Road Daycare. Despite the change, the programming, staff, and philosophy of the daycare centres remain intact. Indeed, Rolph Road Daycare is carrying on business as L.D.C.C. All centres are operated to provide community care.

In August of 2004, a new central location was selected and leased for both the McRae and Fleming locations. The new location is over 9000 square feet and provides care to over 81 children from infant to age 5. The location has an indoor gross motor room and large bright rooms for the children. The new location also provides a JK program.

In June of 2006 two new rooms on the second floor were leased at the Laird location to allow for the expansion of the centre. It was critical as there was a need in the community and there are several siblings required to move into the centre.

In September of 2008 after being approached by Toronto Catholic School Board (TCSB) a before and after school age program opened at St. Anselm's Catholic school providing a need for care for school age from Grade 1 to Grade 6.

In September of 2014 with the introduction of all-day Kindergarten at Rolph Road and St. Anselm, Leaside Daycare Centers was asked by both the TDSB and the TCDSB to provide before and after care for their all-day kindergarten programs. With the loss of kindergartens at our Laird location we did some minor renovations to provide care for an additional infant room and a toddler room. 

47. CWELCC

 

In March of 2022, the Provincial Government announced an agreement with the Federal Government to implement CWELCC (Canada Wide Early Learning Childcare) funding to help reduce parent fees to approximately $10.00 per day.

All Licensed Childcare Centres had the option of signing up for the program or to opt-out.

Rolph Rd/Leaside Daycare made the decision to sign up for the program in August 2022, with the understanding that as the new system rolls out, if it doesn’t work for the daycare, we can then opt-out.

An information letter was sent out to the parents advising them of the decision.

CWELCC funding is based on lowering fees for families of children up to 6 years of age. The only exception to this is children in senior Kindergarten, who turn 6 between January – June. They will be eligible for the reduced fees until the end of the school year. Children who turn 6 between July-December are eligible for the reduced fees to the end of the month of their birthday.

Once funding is received by the Daycare, parents will receive a rebate of 25% of monthly fees, retroactive from April 1^st, 2022.

Effective December 31^st, 2022, parent fees will be reduced by 50% of base fees.

The 3^rd phase of reduced fees is scheduled for September 2024, with the final fee reduction September 2025.

 

 

48. College of Early Childhood Educators – Code of Ethics

 

Members (“Early Childhood Educators” or “members”) of the College of Early Childhood Educators are committed to the Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics reflects a core set of beliefs and values of care, respect, trust, and integrity. These beliefs and values are fundamental to members of the profession and guide their conduct.

 

A.     Responsibilities to Children.

Early Childhood Educators make the well-being of all children who are under their professional supervision their foremost responsibility. They value the rights of the child, respecting the uniqueness, dignity, and potential of each child, and strive to create learning environments in which children experience a sense of belonging.

 

Early Childhood Educators are caring, empathic, fair, and act with integrity. Early Childhood Educators foster the joy of learning through play-based pedagogy.

 

B.     Responsibilities to Families

Early Childhood Educators value the centrality of the family to the health and well-being of children. They recognize and respect the uniqueness and diversity of families.

Early Childhood Educators strive to establish and maintain reciprocal relationships with family members of children under their professional supervision. These relationships are based on trust, openness, and respect for confidentiality. Early Childhood Educators collaborate with families by exchanging knowledge and sharing practices and resources.

 

 

C.     Responsibilities to Colleagues and to the Profession

Early Childhood Educators interact with colleagues and other professionals in ways that demonstrate respect, trust, and integrity. Through their conduct, Early Childhood Educators strive to enhance the status of the profession in their workplaces and in the wider community.

 

Early Childhood Educators value lifelong learning and commit themselves to engaging in continuous professional learning to enhance their practice. They support experienced colleagues, those who are new to the profession and students aspiring to the profession.

 

D.    Responsibilities to the Community and to Society

Early Childhood Educators value and engage in collaboration with community agencies, schools, and other professionals.

 

       Early Childhood Educators recognize that they contribute to community and society by

       advocating for and promoting an appreciation of the profession, children, and early      learning.

 

49. College of Early Childhood Educators – Standards of Practice

 

The College of Early Childhood Educators has established the following six standards dealing with specific issues in the practice of early childhood education.

 

i.           Caring and Nurturing Relationships that Support Learning

ii.         Developmentally Appropriate Care and education

iii.        Safe, Healthy and Supportive Learning Environment

iv.        Professional Knowledge of Competence

v.         Professional Boundaries, Dual Relationships and Conflict of Interest.

vi.        Confidentiality and Consent to Release of Information Regarding Children and their Families

 

For information please see: www.college-ece.ca

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare Centres

 

 

 

Program Statement

 

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare provides a secure, supportive, and trusting environment in which.

Children are recognized as being competent, capable, curious, and rich in potential. It is an inclusive, play based learning space in which children develop and grow at their own pace. The goals of our program are to nurture independent thought and action, self­-confidence, self-regulation, co-operation, and social skill. We believe that families are an integral part of our program and that by forming trusting relationships with them we provide a strong sense of belonging and collaboration.

 

Our Registered Early Childhood Educators are knowledgeable, empathetic, and skilled. They see play and inquiry as key components to a balanced, comprehensive program that fosters children’s health and well-being.

 

Program/Pedagogy and Curriculum

 

Pedagogy is “the understanding of how learning takes place and the philosophy and practice that support that understanding of learning. “Curriculum the content of learning and pedagogy how learning happens in early years settings are shaped by views about children, the role of educators and families and relationships among them. (How does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years, 2014) 

 

How Does Learning Happen at Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare is consistent with the Ministry’s Policy statement

 

Our Pedagogical approach and subsequent curriculum reflect our view of children being competent, capable, curious, and rich in potential.

 

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare approaches these goals as follow:

 

 

To help children to be successful their needs must be met. Practices that maintain a safe and clean environment help to ensure the basic provisions of care exist. Good nutrition, Time spent outdoors and a balance between active play, quite play and rest to promote physical, emotional, and social well-being.

 

•   Educators follow our policies and procedures that promote sanitary environments.

•   All employees working at the daycare are trained in standard first aid w/heart-saver CPR (level C. Adult and Infant)

•   All employees, students, volunteers, have a Criminal Reference check and Vulnerable Sector Screening.

•   Fire and evacuation drills are conducted monthly.

•   Leaside Memorial Gardens is our emergency shelter in the event we must relocate.

•   Menus are reviewed annually by a qualified nutritionist.

•   Menus reflect the dietary, religious, and medical needs of the children.

•   Our cooks provide nutritious, wholesome menus based on Canada’s Food Guide.

•   Our cooks and staff that prepare food have their food handler’s certificate.

•   The Allergies list is posted in the kitchen and all applicable classrooms.

•   Providing time and space for outdoor play

•   Incorporating exercise and active play into the daily program

 

b) Support positive and responsive interactions among the children, parents’ childcare providers and staff.

 

Our Educators interact with the children in a warm, responsive, and meaningful way and communicate in a manner that ensures families and colleagues feel understood, valued, and respected. When positive interactions and communication exist, relationships are built and a sense of belonging, and trust are fostered.

 

•   Supporting interactions between children, their families, and Educators, modelling positive, and communicative exchanges.

•   Educators greet children and parents by name and build relationships that prioritize the best interest of the child.

•   Educators practice and encourage inclusive and positive interactions.

•   Educators encourage self-help skills as we view the child as capable.

•   We promote an atmosphere of inclusion, co-operation, sharing and friendliness.

•   We encourage children to do as much for themselves as possible and we assist them as needed.

•   Follow the child’s lead and interests during play.

•   Use a pleasant and calm voice.

•   Acknowledge children for their accomplishments in a genuine manner.

 

c) Encourage the children to interact and communicate in a positive way and support their ability to self-regulate

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare supports each child developing their capacity to self-regulate and to engage in positive interactions in a safe environment.

 

•   Educators will always model positive, empathetic, and communicative language and behaviors.

•   Interact at the child’s level for face-to-face interactions.

•   Redirecting the child when they engage in challenging behavior.

•   Providing natural and logical consequences that are age appropriate for the individual child.

•   Planning and implementing formal and informal social skills activities to help children develop positive social interactions, self-regulation, problem solving, co-operation, concentration, listening and waiting.

•   Listen to children and encourage them to listen to others.

•   We provide small group experiences and transitions to meet the needs of the children who may require more time to get dressed or to finish eating, etc.

 

d) Foster the Children’s exploration, play and inquiry

 

At Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare we believe that children learn through play, which aligns with the foundation of engagement in “How Does Learning Happen?” Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years (Belonging, Well Being, Engagement and Expression) We will create an environment that allows the children to explore the world around them, with their natural curiosity and exuberance.

 

•   Providing a daily schedule that is flexible.

•   Providing a daily schedule that allows for children to play and explore both inside and outside, rest and quite time and always considering the needs of the individual child.

•   Educators participate with children during play as co-learners and co-planners allowing the children to lead.

•   Educators encourage the children to continuously question and test their own strategies and ideas and they are there to facilitate the process.

•   Educators value collaboration and engagement by sharing pictures and videos of the children during play and activities that allows the parents to see their child engaged and involved in their activities.

 

e) Provide child initiated and adult-supported experiences

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare recognizes that to provide an effective learning environment, there has to be a balance between following the children’s lead and interest and planning and implementing experiences that will support the children’s development.

 

•   Educators create a weekly program plan based on their observations for individual children and the children as a group.

•   Educators provide enough and varied play materials, equipment and experience that offer challenges and are responsive to the needs of all the children.

 

f) Plan for and create positive learning environments and experiences in which each child’s learning and development will be supported and which is inclusive of all children, including children with individualized plans

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare recognizes that the children thrive in indoor and outdoor spaces that invite them to investigate, imagine, think, create, solve problems and make meaning from their experiences, especially when the spaces contain interesting and complex open-ended materials that children can use in many ways. “How Does Learning Happen”

 

•   Educators set up their classrooms to provide many opportunities for children to discover, imagine and create; materials selected for their ability to spark curiosity, investigation and provide challenges to extend learning. Classroom toys are often open ended to encourage self-directed use and foster complex play.

•   Educators will provide activities that are both quiet and active, which will meet the needs of the developing child regardless of the level of need and development.

•   We will, when necessary, make changes to the environment and program to meet the needs of all the children.

 

g) Incorporate indoor and outdoor play, as well as active play, rest and quite time, into the day and consider the individual needs of the children receiving childcare

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare Educators create flexible and unhurried schedules that provide a level of predictable routine, while responding to individual needs

 

•   When possible, our classes are separated into small groups to reduce waiting time through transitions and to accommodate individual interests and needs.

 

•   We recognize the importance of outdoor time to provide an opportunity for active play, but also an opportunity to explore, create and investigate. Educators focus on enhancing outdoor areas through open ended materials and creative art experiences.

•   When weather does not permit for outside activities, we use the gym/gross motor room.

•   Infants’ toddlers and preschoolers nap after lunch and children who do not sleep are offered books and quite activities.

 

h) Foster engagement of and ongoing communication with parents about the program and their children.

 

Respectful communication between parents and staff is essential and acts as the cornerstone of partnership. Communication deepens our understanding of one another’s expectations and attitudes and allows us to build on the strength of collective knowledge by respecting the importance of family ties and traditions, we believe that we must work in partnership with families to strengthen the bond between home and daycare to promote the overall success of each child’s experience.

 

•   We acknowledge that families know their children best.

•   We recognize that our children grow up in families with diverse experiences and cultural perspectives and understand that all families have their own individual strengths and potential.

•   We communicate and share ideas and information in many ways including:       

           

            - daily interactions

            - scheduled meetings

            - center newsletter

            - parent board display

            - Lillio daily

 

•   We invite parents to be involved in ways that reflect their interests and talents, to a degree that suits their personal level of comfort. Opportunities for participation can include:

 

            - classroom visits

            - center functions

            - AGM meeting

            - sharing interests and skills

            - parent workshops

            - volunteering on field trips and outings

 

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare identifies the importance of supporting children and families in the context of their environments and encourages a sense of belonging and connectedness with their local communities.

 

•   Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare works closely with our local schools and their communities to establish positive collaborative relationships.

 

            - involvement with special events assemblies, BBQs, and concerts etc.

             - sharing resources

            - ongoing communication through daily interactions, meetings

 

•   Our programs actively plan for and encourage engagement through experiences such as:

 

            - Walks to local businesses: pet store, local supermarkets, and Home Depot etc.

            - Visits to the Senior Home, Fire Station, and Police Station

            - Local Food Drives

            - Better Beginnings

 

•   Educators value and engage in collaboration with community agencies when children may need extra support. Community agencies that we partner with but are not limited to:

 

            - Toronto Community Living

           

 

j) Support staff, home child-care providers or others who interact with children at a childcare center or home childcare premises in relation to continuous learning

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare educators are knowledgeable, caring, reflective and resourceful professionals who work together to continually develop their understanding of the children and families they work with.

 

•   We offer regular training sessions and workshop opportunities.

•   Our educators participate in regular team meetings and staff meetings.

•   Educators have time off work to attend learning opportunities.

•   We support our R.E.C.E.s through shared resources and informal discussion as they engage in ongoing continuous professional learning (CPL).

 

k) Document and review the impact of the strategies set out in this statement on the children and their families

 

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare recognizes that pedagogical documentation is a powerful reflective tool for educators to understand the children more deeply and to help them make decisions for next steps in their curriculum. By capturing and displaying the children’s discoveries and forms of expression, teachers demonstrate that each child is listened to and that their work is important. Documentation helps make learning visible and allows for meaningful dialogue between parents, educators and children.

 

•   Educators observe children at play to learn how each child finds meaning in his or her experiences of the world around them. Educators use a variety of formats to support the process of pedagogical documentation which includes:

 

•   Children’ Portfolios

•   Photos documentation of learning experiences

•   Digital documentation:  meals, sleep, health, mood, daily activities, toileting, and sleep check records

           

Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare program statement is a living document that will be reviewed annually to ensure that it is aligned with the Minister’s policy statement.

 

All staff, volunteers and students review the program statement prior to interacting with the children.

 

All staff, volunteers and students sign the program statement every year and when the program statement has been modified.

 

 

 

Staff signature: ______________________________        Date: __________________________

PARENT AND CHILD CODE OF CONDUCT

 

As part of your contract with Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare Centres, the Daycare reserves the right to withdraw or deny services if it is believed that the needs of your child or family cannot be appropriately met.

 

The decision for suspension and/or withdrawal will be based on, but not limited to, the following types of incidents:

 

·       Extreme physical acts against other children and/or Educators (hitting, biting, or any other form of physical threat or assault)

·       Non-compliance of Educators direction

·       Verbal attacks on other children and/or Educators, which includes the use of threats, name calling, as well as repeated profane or degrading language.

·       Racial or other discriminatory incidents

·       A child who leaves the centre without permission and/or leaves the care of centre Educators on or offsite.

·       Any verbal or physical abuse by a child or child’s family member.

 

We realize that occurrences and disputes will occur among children, and it is not our intent to exclude children over normal developmental incidents that assist them in acquiring problem-solving skills. However, as individual needs vary in terms of environment and program, some children may not benefit from the program offered in our centre. We will make every effort to meet the needs of your child, which may require the assistance of an outside agency. If the behavior still occur and it is deemed that we are unable to meet the needs of you or your child, then services will be withdrawn, with approval from the Board of Directors.

 

 

Name of Child_____________________________

 

Signature of Child (if possible) ___________________________

 

Signature of Parent___________________________   Date_____________________

 

Children and parents are required to sign and abide by the “Parent and Child Code of Conduct”. The signature form is included in your registration package. Please retain this for your records.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Parent Handbook Agreement Form

 

I have read and clearly understand the Parent Handbook of Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare Centres and agree to abide by the policies and procedures contained within. Any revisions to these policies or new policies created by the daycare will be communicated through email or Himama.

 

I understand that not adhering to Rolph Road/Leaside Daycare policies and procedures may result in services being withdrawn.

 

 

Name of Child/Children ________________________________________________

 

Parent Signature ______________________________________ Date____________

 

 

 

Please retain copy for your records

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEASIDE DAYCARE CENTRES

 

PARENT FEE SCHEDULE

 

EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1^ST 2024

 

LEASIDE DAYCARE LOCATION

 

	MONTHLY	DAILY
INFANTS	$935.55	$43.01
TODDLERS	$836.33	$38.45
PRE-SCHOOL	$649.69	$29.87

 

 

 

The Daycare operates from 7:30 – 6:00 Monday to Friday, excluding Statutory holidays (This includes Easter Monday).

 

 

 

Approved by the Board of Directors

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEASIDE DAYCARE CENRTRES

 

PARENT FEE SCHDULE

 

EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1^ST 2024

 

ROLPH ROAD LOCATION

 

	MONTHLY	DAILY
PRE-SCHOOL	$649.69	$29.87
FDK   AM & PM	$344.93	$15.88
SCHOOL AGE   AM & PM   AM, LUNCH & PM	$640.00   $840.00	$29.42   $38.62
SUMMER CAMP JK-SK     SCHOOL AGE	$189.00 PER WEEK   $420.00	$37.80     $84.00

 

The Daycare operates September to June, from 7:30-6:00 Monday to Friday, excluding Statutory holidays (including Easter Monday).

 

The summer camp operates from 7:30 – 6:00 from July 2^nd,  – August 23^rd, 2024.

 

Approved by the Board of Directors

 

 

LEASIDE DAYCARE CENTRES

 

PARENT FEE SCHEDULE

 

EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1^ST 2024

ST. ANSELM

 

	MONTHLY	DAILY
FDK AM & PM	$344.93	$15.88
SCHOOL AGE AM & PM	$640.00	$29.42
SUMMER CAMP JK/SK   SCHOOL AGE	$189.00   $420.00	$37.80   $84.00

 

The Daycare operates September to June, from 7:15 – 6:00 Monday to Friday, excluding Statutory holidays (This includes Easter Monday).

 

During the summer this site is closed, children transfer to the Rolph Road location.

The summer camp operates from 7:30 – 6:00, July 2^nd, until August 23^rd, 2024.

 

Approved by the Board of Directors