2016 - 2017 Preschool Enrollment and Information Packet

PRESCHOOL ENROLLMENT and INFORMATION 2016-2017
2016-2017 Enrollment Packet (for all registered students)
Directors’ cover letter
Enrollment Forms Checklist
Emergency Contact Information
Child’s Personal History
Parent Handbook
Certificate of Health Examination (medical form)
New Student Forms
DCFS Licensing Booklet
Additional Student Forms and Information
Room Parent Volunteers
September 2016 Calendar
All Year School Calendar 2016 - 2017
Meet & Greet Open House
Medical/Allergy Forms
Medication Distribution forms (for children requiring medication)
Spring 2016
Dear Preschool Parents,
We would like to welcome our new and returning families to the Deerfield Park District Preschool
2016-2017 school year! We are very excited to begin (or continue) this wonderful journey with you and
your child.
Enclosed please find a number of enrollment forms that will need to be completed and returned to the
Deerfield Park District Registration Office. Many of these forms are licensing requirements by the Illinois
Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Any information you provide to us concerning your
child is confidential.
Enrollment forms need to be completed and returned by July 1.
All Students
o
o
o
o
o
Enrollment Forms Checklist
Emergency Contact Information
Child’s Personal History
Parent Handbook executed back page
Certificate of Child Health Examination (medical form)
New Students Only
o
o
DCFS Licensing Standards Booklet executed back page
Certified Copy of Birth Certificate
All Students - Optional Forms
o
o
Room Parent Volunteers
Medical Distribution forms (available online)
In late August/early September, your child’s teacher will be calling to introduce herself and set up your 15
minute pre-conference appointment. Pre-conferences will be held at school during your child’s regular
school hours on either Tuesday, September 6th or Wednesday, September 7th. (See September Calendar)
If you are interested, there will be opportunities to extend your child’s day of learning. Information about
lunch bunch, fall enrichment, and ‘Extend the Day Play’ programs will be available mid-summer.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. During the summer when
Preschool is not in session the best way to reach us is by email.
Looking forward to seeing you and your child in the fall! See you at the Meet and Greet!
Warmly,
Cindy Wolf
Lynn Braun
Preschool Co-Director
Preschool Co-Director
cindy@deerfieldparks.org
lynn@deerfieldparks.org
Enclosures to keep:
o
o
o
o
o
September 2016 Calendar
All Year School Calendar
Parent Handbook 2016 – 2017
Meet & Greet Open House
DCFS Licensing Standards Booklet - NEW STUDENTS ONLY
Deerfield Park District Preschool
ENROLLMENT FORMS CHECKLIST
2016 – 2017
Child’s Last Name ______________________________________ First Name ___________________________________
Please check age group:
___ LITTLE LEARNERS (3 years old by 4/1)
___ 3 YEAR OLDS (3 years old by 9/1)
___ Pre-K 4 (4 years old by 9/1)
Return this checklist along with your completed forms and July tuition payments (if applicable) to:
Deerfield Park District Registration Office, 836 Jewett Park Drive, Deerfield, IL 60015 Attn: Preschool Enrollment
*** Enrollment forms are due on or before JULY 1 ***
Please check the completed enrollment forms you are enclosing:
All Students
______Emergency Contact Information
______Child’s Personal History
______Preschool Parent Handbook (executed back page)
______Certificate of Child Health Examination (medical form)
New Students Only
______DCFS Licensing Standards Booklet (executed back page)
______ A Certified Copy of your Child’s Birth Certificate
Optional Forms – All Students
______Room Parent Volunteer
______Medication Distribution Forms *
*Medication Distribution forms must be completed for those children requiring medication during the school day, i.e.:
Epi-pen, Benadryl, inhaler, etc. These forms are not enclosed, but if needed, may be downloaded from the Preschool
page of the Deerfield Park District website. www.deerfieldparks.org
Deerfield Park District Preschool
EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION
2016 - 2017
PLEASE PRINT
Child’s Last Name __________________________________________ Child’s First Name ___________________________
Please check: __ LITTLE LEARNERS (3 years by 4/1)
__ 3 YEAR OLDS (3 years old by 9/1)
Date of Birth __ / __ / ________ Check: __ Male __ Female
__ PRE-K 4’s (4 years old by 9/1)
Primary Email ___________________________________
Address _______________________________________________________________ City ____________________________
PARENT
GUARDIAN
NAME
CELL PHONE #
HOME PHONE #
WORK PHONE #
Mother
Father
(If applicable)
Caregiver’s Name ____________________________ Caregiver’s Cell # __________________________________________
MUST LIST TWO (2) persons to contact in case of emergency if parents are unavailable (other than parents or caregiver).
The two (2) persons listed may pick up my child if necessary. ** Emergency persons must live within a 10-15 minute drive from school **.
1. Name ______________________________________________________ Relationship to Child __________________________
Address _________________________________________________________ City ________________________________
Home Phone ________________________________________ Cell # ____________________________________________
2. Name ______________________________________________________ Relationship to Child __________________________
Address _________________________________________________________ City ________________________________
Home Phone ________________________________________ Cell # ____________________________________________
List health concerns: i.e.: allergies, medications, seizures, diabetes, etc. (for Preschool office for emergency use)
My child will not be released to anyone, but his/her parents, the above persons, or persons listed on ‘Authorization For Pick Up’ form*.
The Deerfield Park District Preschool must have WRITTEN PERMISSION to release your child to any other person. In case of illness or
emergency, I authorize the Deerfield Park District Preschool to provide any emergency care deemed necessary for my child, including
CPR, administering first aid, and transporting my child to the nearest emergency facility.
Date ____ / _____ / _________
Parent/Guardian Signature ________________________________________________
* Authorization For Pick-Up forms (car pools, etc.) will be available at your child’s pre-conference in September.
Deerfield Park District Preschool
CHILD’S PERSONAL HISTORY 2016-2017
(Please Print)
Child’s Last Name ___________________________________________ First Name _______________________________
Child’s Nickname (if applicable) ______________________________ Birthdate ____ / ____ / ________ Circle: Male Female
Check:
__ LITTLE LEARNERS (3 years old by 4/ 1)
__ 3 YEAR OLDS (3 years old by 9/1)
__ PRE-K 4’s (4 years old by 9/1)
FAMILY / HOME
Parent/Guardian Name _________________________________________
Occupation ______________________________
Business Name/Address _________________________________________________________________________________
Business Phone ____________________________Work Hours Mon _______ Tue_______ Wed_______ Thu_______ Fri _______
Do you travel for business? _____ If yes, how often?_________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name _________________________________________
Occupation ______________________________
Business Name/Address _________________________________________________________________________________
Business Phone ____________________________Work Hours Mon _______ Tue_______ Wed_______ Thu_______ Fri _______
Do you travel for business? _____ If yes, how often?_________________________________________________________
Parent’s Marital Status: Single ___ Married ___
Separated ___
Divorced ___
Other: ____________________
If divorced or separated, which parent does your child reside with? ____________________________________________
How often does child see other parent? __________________________________________________________________
Name of Sibling
M/F
Date of Birth
Preschool Attended
(include year)
if applicable)
Current School / Grade
(if applicable)
_____________________
___
________________
____________________
____________________
_____________________
___
________________
____________________
____________________
_____________________
___
________________
____________________
____________________
Does anyone else live in your home? YES
NO If yes, name/relationship to child: ________________________________
Is ENGLISH your child’s primary language? YES NO
If no, what language does your child speak? ____________________
Are any other languages spoken in the home? YES NO
If yes, what language? __________________________________
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SCHOOL / GROUP EXPERIENCE
Is your family NEW to our Preschool? YES
NO
Is this your child’s first school experience by themself?
Name(s) of schools child attended by themself: (if applicable)
Day/hours attended:
YES
NO
Dates attended:
1. ____________________________________________________
___________________________
_____________________
2.____________________________________________________
___________________________
_____________________
MEDICAL / PERSONAL HISTORY
Does your child currently receive (or has received in the past) outside services or therapies? (i.e.: Speech, OT, PT)
If yes, please explain:
Has your child had any injuries, surgeries or recent personal family traumas?
If yes, please explain:
YES
YES
NO
NO
Is your child prone to certain illnesses or have any conditions we should be aware of?
If yes, please explain:
YES
NO
Are there any toileting or use of bathroom concerns that may affect your child at school?
Does your child take any medication regularly?
If yes, please list and explain:
YES
Will your child need to take medications while at school?
NO
YES *
NO
*If yes, must complete Medical Distribution Form
If yes, please list and explain:
Are school snacks a potential concern?
If yes, please explain:
YES
NO
ALLERGIES: Complete below if your child has allergies
Allergy to
Contact or Ingestion
Symptoms
Medication Needed
Life Threatening?
____________________
__________
_________________________
_________________
______
____________________
__________
_________________________
_________________
______
____________________
__________
_________________________
_________________
______
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SOCIAL EMOTIONAL HISTORY
How would you describe your child’s temperament/personality?
How does your child handle separation?
Are there specific situations in which your child tends to become upset, angry, scared, or withdrawn?
Describe your child’s attitude toward other adults? (i.e.: friendly, outgoing, cautious, etc.)
How would you describe your child’s play? (i.e.: self-initiated, plays alone, prefers to play with others, active, quiet, etc.)
YOUR INPUT
What are your goals for your child at Preschool?
Is there any other information that you would like to share with the staff (directors or teachers)?
Date: ____ / _____ / _____________ Parent/Guardian Signature ______________________________________________
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Deerfield Park District
Preschool
836 Jewett Park Drive
Deerfield, IL. 60015
(847) 572-2634
www.deerfieldparks.org
PARENT HANDBOOK
2016 - 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME TO PRESCHOOL
p. 3-4
COMMUNICATION
About our School
Philosophy
Preschool Staff
School Hours
BEGINNING SCHOOL
FOOD AND SNACKS
p. 4-5
SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS
p. 5-6
p. 13
Room Parents / Classroom Volunteers
Field Trips / Walking Trips
Arrival
Drop Off Circle
BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT
p. 7
p. 13-14
Discipline Policy
Meeting Each Child’s Needs
Dismissal
Late Pick-Up Policy
SAFETY AND SECURITY
HEALTH AND SAFETY
p. 12
Special Days
Birthdays
PARENT VOLUNTEERS
DISMISSAL
p. 11-12
Snacks
Food Policy
Meet and Greet
Pre-Conferences
Class Placement
Separation and Transition
Toileting
ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL
p. 11
Parent / Teacher Team
Annual Surveys
p. 8
p. 14
Security
School Emergency Procedures
Pest Control Procedures
Radon Testing
Absences / Illnesses
Vision and Hearing Screening
WHAT TO BRING / WHAT TO WEAR p. 8-9
Everyday Clothing
Backpacks
School T-shirts
Cold Weather Clothing
Items from Home
CURRICULUM
PROGRAM INFORMATION AND POLICIES p. 15-16
Emergency School Closings
Registration / Enrollment
Birth Certificate Policy
School Directory / Photos
Withdrawal from Program
p. 9-11
SIGNATURE PAGE
About Our Curriculum
A Typical Day at Preschool
Extending Your Child’s Day
2
p. 17
WELCOME TO PRESCHOOL
Dear Preschool Families,
Welcome to the Deerfield Park District Preschool! Entering preschool is an important milestone in the lives of children
and their parents. It is a time when children move from home to a classroom, from a small group of friends to a larger
community of peers, from loving parents to other adults who care for them in new ways. Our mission is to provide a
secure environment of mutual trust in which your child can learn and grow in confidence and self-esteem. Children are
encouraged to explore and develop one’s own particular capacities and talents while building a sense of community and
cooperation with classmates and teachers.
Throughout the year, parents are invited to participate in many special activities. You are also welcome to visit at any
time, and staff is always available to answer questions.
We want your child to have the best possible preschool experience. If you have any questions or concerns, please do
not hesitate to let us know. Our door is always open.
Thank you for sharing your child with us.
Warmly,
Cindy
Cindy Wolf
Co-Director
cindy@deerfieldparks.org
Lynn
Lynn Braun
Co-Director
lynn@deerfieldparks.org
About Our School
Deerfield Park District Preschool is a not-for-profit early childhood program that is licensed by the Illinois Department of
Children and Family Services (DCFS) and is designed to meet or exceed licensing standards. Located in a secured area on
the second level of the Jewett Park Community Center, we offer part-time enrollment for children 2 ½ years through 5
years of age. Deerfield Park District Preschool is open from the day after Labor Day through the week before Memorial
Day. Our school generally follows the Deerfield School District 109 calendar for vacations, etc.
Philosophy
We are a developmental program designed so that children learn to play and play to learn. We believe that through
play and problem solving, children learn the basic skills necessary to achieve – socially, emotionally, intellectually,
physically, and creatively. Our programs are planned to reflect the changing developmental needs of children in each
age group through individual and group activities.
Our goal is to provide a warm, nurturing quality preschool environment, recognizing that each child has her/his own
unique style of growth and learning. We believe parents and teachers are partners in children’s care and education
helping children grow in confidence and self-esteem.
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Preschool Staff
Our dedicated, caring, experienced teachers are early childhood educators committed to helping children develop to
their fullest potential. We are proud of maintaining a low student/teacher ratio. The staff is always available to answer
questions or address your concerns.
Throughout the year, the staff participates in numerous early childhood conferences, workshops, and in-service trainings
in order to remain informed of current trends and research in the field.
Our volunteer intergenerational program, ‘Growing Together’ provides a welcome addition to many of our classrooms.
School Hours
Little Learners
3 Year Olds
Pre-K 4’s
Tue / Thu
Mon / Wed / Fri
Mon – Fri
9:00am – 11:15am
8:45am - 11:15am
8:45am – 11:15am
3 years old by April 1
3 years old by Sept. 1
4 years old by Sept. 1
BEGINNING SCHOOL
Meet and Greet
The school year begins with our MEET and GREET Open House. This Open House gives families the opportunity to visit
school, meet the teachers as well as meet other families in their child’s classroom.
Pre-Conferences
Prior to the start of school, your child’s teacher will call you to arrange a 15 minute pre-conference time. This visit will
allow you and your child the opportunity to meet the teachers, find your child’s cubby and go over important school
information.
Class Placement
Deerfield Park District Preschool reserves the right to determine the appropriate class placement of children. If
you have any concerns regarding your child, please contact the Directors by July 1.
Separation and Transition
It is important for parents and teachers to give children sufficient time and support to help them move from the primary
relationship with parents to a trusting, secondary relationship with teachers. Therefore, we request that
parents/caregivers plan to remain available during the first couple of weeks of school in the event your child needs you.
Please be assured that we recognize that this kind of separation is often as difficult for parents as it is for children.
Here are a few suggestions that will help make your child’s transition to school a bit easier:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Arrive on time. Pick up on time.
Be sure to say goodbye.
Reassure your child that you will return when school is over.
Once you say goodbye, don’t prolong it – otherwise your child will feel your hesitation.
4
5. If your child needs a reminder of home, such as a family photo or security blanket, speak to his or her teacher to
make a plan. We will encourage your child to leave the item in his or her backpack where he or she can ‘check’
on it.
Don’t worry if your child is having trouble adjusting, we will get through it together. Be confident that your child is in
good hands and that we will call you if necessary. You are welcome to call us to check on your child anytime.
Toileting
Children in our 3 Year Old and Pre-K 4’s programs should be toilet-trained before the start of the school year. Each
classroom is equipped with a child-sized bathroom to encourage independence. We understand that toilet-training is a
developmental process and not all children may be fully toilet-trained by September when school begins. If your child
has any toileting difficulties, please speak to your child’s teacher.
*A parent or caregiver should be available during school hours if a child should have a bowel movement during the
school day and needs to be changed.
Children in our Little Learners program may be working on toilet-training at the start of the school year. Toilet training is
a very important milestone for a child, so we want to work together on this skill. Here are some helpful hints for when a
child is ready to wear underwear to school:
o
o
o
o
o
o
Can follow simple directions
Able to stay dry for two or more hours at a time
Can communicate when they need to go potty
Expresses the desire to wear underpants
Has limited accidents and makes you aware that they had an accident
Is able to pull pants up and down independently
ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL
Arrival
Our school entrance is on the NORTHEAST side of the Jewett Park Community Center. Upon arrival at school, all children
and adults should enter through the double glass doors by the east circle driveway. A teacher or staff member will be
there to let you in.
During the first week of school, please walk your child into their classroom. For children in our 3 Year Old and Pre-K 4’s
programs, DROP OFF in the circle driveway will begin the second week of school (for those children who are ready).
Late Arrival: For a smoother transition to school, please arrive on time. Once class begins, our entry doors are locked.
If you arrive late and a staff member is not available to open the doors, please bring your child to the park district
registration office and we will be notified to let you in.
Drop Off Circle
For those children in our 3 Year Old and Pre-K 4 programs, your child may participate in ‘drop off’ in the circle driveway
on the NORTHEAST side of the Jewett Park Community Center. Our staff will be outside waiting to take your child out of
their car and direct them into their classroom. Drop-off encourages your child’s independence. However, if your child is
5
not ready, you may walk them into their classroom. Drop-off is NOT available for children in the Little Learners
program.
Please follow the directions listed below to drop off your child in the circle driveway:

Morning drop-off begins at 8:40am (concludes at approximately 8:50am)
•
Enter the drop off line from the LIBRARY ENTRANCE on Waukegan Road.
•
Travel through the library parking lot, drive behind the police station in a line closest to the park, and turn right
into the circle driveway. Please do not block anyone wishing to back out of the parking spaces in these areas.
Pull ALL THE WAY UP in the circle driveway, to the end of the turnaround to allow more cars to enter.
•
Put your car in PARK and leave your child in their seatbelt. (Please try to have their car seat on the curbside)
The driver should remain in the car.
•
A staff member will come up to your car and open the car door, assist your child with their seatbelt and getting
out of the car.
•
As you exit the circle driveway, please turn right and watch for pedestrians in the crosswalk. N0 LEFT TURN out
of the circle is permitted.
CELL PHONES: The state of Illinois prohibits use of a hand-held cell phone while operating a vehicle in a SCHOOL
ZONE area. Please help keep our children and adults safe while also obeying this law by refraining to use your cell
phone for the few minutes you are in the drop-off circle.
*We ask that you share drop-off procedure information with your designated drivers such as nannies, relatives, and
neighbors before they drop off or pick up your child. For the safety of children and adults, we encourage you to drive
slowly and use caution in the parking lot and drop-off areas which can be quite congested at arrival and dismissal times.
Drop Off Circle Diagram
6
DISMISSAL
Dismissal
It is important to pick up your child on time. Children tend to get upset or worried if all the other children have been
picked up and they are still waiting.
Please wait behind the SOLID DOUBLE DOORS inside the community center (by the treehouse) until a staff member
opens the doors at dismissal time. All children must be picked up and signed out in their classrooms by an authorized
adult. Children will be seated and ready with their coats on. After entering the classroom, please sign out your child
first before taking your child by their hand. After signing your child out, please leave the classroom holding your child’s
hand through the hallway and until you arrive safely at your car. If you are carpooling or have more than one child,
please keep your group together.
If your child is going home with someone other than their regular carpool, please send a written note at the beginning of
the school day. Your written note must include the date, your child’s name, name of adult picking up, and parent
signature. VERBAL OR PHONE REQUESTS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
We will NOT release your child to anyone who is not on your Authorization For Pick Up form or Emergency Contact
Information form without a written note from you. Identification may be requested.
Please do not leave your car unattended in the circle driveway while you pick up your child.
EARLY PICK-UP: Due to security reasons, if you need to pick up your child early, PLEASE CALL AHEAD to the
Preschool Office @ 847-572-2634. When you arrive, please ring the bell at the DOUBLE GLASS DOORS on the
NORTHEAST side entrance where we can see you through the glass.
During the school year, please inform the Preschool Office of any changes to cell phone numbers, home numbers or
changes in persons authorized to pick up your child.
Late Pick-Up Policy
If a parent, guardian or person authorized to pick up is over five (5) minutes late to pick up a child, we will attempt to
reach an emergency contact listed on a child’s Emergency Contact Information form. A late fee may be incurred if a child
is picked up late continually.
If after forty five (45) minutes, we have been unable to reach an authorized person, we will contact the Deerfield Police
Department for assistance. A Deerfield Park District employee shall be responsible for the child’s protection and wellbeing until the parent, guardian, or person authorized to pick up the child arrives or the authorities arrive. We will do
our best to keep the child comfortable and calm until the situation is resolved. This issue shall not hold the child
responsible for the situation and that discussion of this issue will only be with the parent or guardian and never with the
child.
Due to the above late pick-up policy, it is imperative to have up-to-date emergency contact information on file with
the Preschool office.
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HEALTH AND SAFETY
Absences / Illness
IF YOUR CHILD IS ILL OR WILL BE ABSENT FROM SCHOOL FOR ANY REASON, PLEASE CALL THE PRESCHOOL
OFFICE @ (847) 572-2634. If the phone line is in use, your call will go directly to voice mail. If this occurs, please leave a
message and we will call you back if necessary. In your message, please notify us as to the reason for your child’s
absence – if they are ill and what symptoms your child is experiencing. Due to public health codes, the Preschool office
must be notified if your child has any communicable illness, i.e.: strep throat, conjunctivitis, head lice, fifth disease, etc.
Our goal is to create a safe and healthy environment for all children. To reduce the spreading of germs, we require
children and adults to wash their hands upon arrival, before snack, and after bathroom use.
If your child should become sick or if an emergency occurs while at school, we will call you to pick up your child. If we
are unable to reach you, we will contact one of the authorized adults listed on your Emergency Contact Information
Form or Authorization for Pick Up Form. A PARENT, GUARDIAN OR AUTHORIZED ADULT SHOULD BE REACHABLE AT ALL
TIMES DURING THE HOURS YOUR CHILD IS AT SCHOOL.
PLEASE keep your child home if he or she has any of the following symptoms:
* yellow or green nasal discharge
* temperature 99.0 or above
* discharge from the eyes or ears
* any contagious disease
* sore throat and/or persistent cough
* stomach ache, diarrhea and/or vomiting
* Lethargy or inability to participate
* any unusual rash
Your child must be free of any of the above symptoms for at least 24 hours before returning to school.
Vision and Hearing Screening
In the spring, a certified technician from the Lake County Health Department will be providing hearing and vision
screening for children enrolled in the 3 Year Old and Pre-K 4’s programs. Families will be notified in advance of the date.
Vision screening is not a substitute for a complete eye and vision evaluation by an eye doctor. Your child is not required
to undergo a vision screening if an optometrist or ophthalmologist completes and signs a report form indicating that an
examination has been administered with in the previous 12 months. If applicable, please provide the Preschool Office
with a copy of your child’s eye exam report prior to the screening date.
WHAT TO BRING / WHAT TO WEAR
Everyday Clothing
We suggest play clothes that are comfortable and easy for a child to manage. Some projects may stain or be messy.
Although smocks are provided, they do not cover everything. Check weather daily so your child is dressed appropriately
for outdoor play. Weather permitting, we go outside EVERYDAY. Label each item with your child’s full name in
permanent marker.
8
Please send your child to school in gym shoes - not sandals, crocs or dress shoes - so they will be safe for indoor and
outdoor activities. In the winter, send your child to school in boots with gym shoes in their backpack. To encourage
your child’s independence, gym shoes with Velcro are recommended.
Backpacks
Your child will receive a backpack to bring to school each day. Attached to your child’s backpack will be a plastic
note holder to be used for communication between home and school. PLEASE USE THE SCHOOL-PROVIDED
BACKPACK EACH DAY.
Keep inside the backpack in a gallon zip-lock bag the following items * (labeled with your child’s name):
 Shirt and/or sweatshirt
• pants (shorts in warm weather)
• underwear
• socks
* Please change the clothing in your child’s backpack as the seasons change.
School T-Shirts
At the beginning of the school year, each child will receive a Preschool t-shirt. We encourage you to send your child to
school wearing the t-shirt anytime, but especially when going on walking trips or field trips.
Cold Weather Clothing
Our experience tells us that the children feel proud of their accomplishments when they can dress themselves
independently to go out and play. To encourage your child’s independence, we recommend mittens instead of gloves,
and boots with Velcro closures rather than laces. This type of snow gear allows your child to dress themselves more
easily. For safety, loose scarves are not encouraged.
Upon arrival of cold weather, each child must bring to school EVERYDAY:
• warm coat
• snow pants
• winter hat
• mittens
• snow boots (pull on or Velcro)
• extra shoes for indoors (when children take off their snow boots)
Items from Home
With the exception of a security item for young children on the first days of school, please leave all toys and playthings
either in the car or at home. Items from home often become the subject of arguments, aggressive behavior and hurt
feelings. Our Preschool provides a wide variety of materials designated to help your child learn and grow and many
opportunities to work on sharing at school. If your child brings toys to school, the toys will be placed in your child’s
backpack. Weapons and war toys are never welcome.
CURRICULUM
About Our Curriculum
Young children construct their understanding of the world through active exploration. Our well-rounded curriculum
includes opportunities in math, science and nature, literacy, language and listening, dramatic play, and daily outdoor
9
play. Our teachers strive to create the best possible learning environment for each child. Art and music/movement
teachers enhance the daily program.
Activities change as the year progresses and as children develop new skills and perspectives. Teachers work as
providers, facilitators, listeners, advisors, disciplinarians, mediators, helpers, and warm, nurturing people. Learning
occurs as children interact with other children, with teachers, and with materials. These activities are the foundation
for future formal learning. The children are working with others to solve problems, express feelings, and generate
ideas. The Preschool is a happy and challenging environment for children as they explore their expanding world.
Our classrooms are set up in centers offering exciting learning areas: blocks, writing, reading, manipulatives, science
and nature, dramatic play, etc. Our art teachers offer a variety of materials that the child can examine, touch, and
experiment with, using color, textures, and design. The groups gather for music and movement each day as well as
stories and discussion. Weather permitting, the children play outdoors daily on the adjacent fenced preschool
playground.
The curriculum exposes children to a variety of cultural experiences that encourage the development of values such as
respect for diversity, giving, sharing and learning to be good friends. Older children learn about responsibility and taking
turns by holding small jobs in the classroom such as snack helpers, table washers, door holder, line leader, line caboose,
meteorologist, etc.
A Typical Day at Preschool
A Day in the Little Learners Program
9:00am
Arrival and welcome, handwashing
9:05am – 10:15am
Group circle, learning centers, art table, music/movement
10:15am – 10:30am
Clean up, storytime
10:30am – 10:50am
Handwashing, snack, dress for outdoor play
10:50am – 11:10am
Outdoor play
11:10am – 11:15am
Review of the day
11:15am
Dismissal
A Day in the 3 Year Old Program
8:45am
Arrival and welcome, handwashing
8:50am – 10:20am
Group circle, learning centers, art table, music/movement
10:20am – 10:35am
Clean up, storytime
10:35am – 10:50am
Handwashing, snack, dress for outdoor play
10:50am – 11:10am
Outdoor play
11:10am – 11:15am
Review of the day
11:15am
Dismissal
A Day in the Pre-K 4’s Program
8:45am
Arrival and welcome, student check in, handwashing
8:50am - 9:55am
Group circle, learning centers, art table
9:55am - 10:35am
Music/movement, learning centers, art table, clean up, storytime
10:35am – 10:50am
Handwashing, snack, dress for outdoor play
10:50am – 11:10am
Outdoor play
11:10am – 11:15am
Review of the day
11:15am
Dismissal
10
Extending Your Child’s Day
A child’s day at Preschool may be extended through Lunch Bunch, Preschool Enrichment or other park district early
childhood classes. Our teachers provide a smooth transition to these programs.
COMMUNICATION
Parent – Teacher Team
Parent-Teacher communication is key to your child’s success at Preschool. Your observations of your child at home
are as important as the teacher’s observations at school. We hope you will feel free to share these with your child’s
teacher. Your insights into your own child are useful in helping the teacher work with your child. If there is an area
of difficulty at school, communication and understanding between you and the teacher is an important step in
helping your child.
Attached to your child’s backpack will be a plastic note holder to be used for communication between home and
school. Please check the note holder on a daily basis and we will, too. We urge you to contact us at any time if you
want clarification about a program, to make suggestions, or to discuss your child’s experience. We would
appreciate you keeping us informed of anything unusual that has happened or is about to happen in your family life
(e.g. illness, parents away, death in the family, family visits, birth of a sibling, etc.). We would like to be able to
support you as much as possible when you are in need.
We feel regular parent-teacher communication is important. A late fall phone conference with parent and teacher
is scheduled for all children. In March, we will hold evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for children in our 3 Year
Old and Pre-K 4’s programs. In April, a second phone conference is held children in our Little Learners program. A
meeting or phone call may be scheduled whenever parents or teachers have a concern they wish to share.
In order to best serve the children, parents and teachers must strive to keep lines of communication open at all
times. We are always available to talk to you about any issues and/or concerns that you might have. It is important
that these kinds of conversations take place outside of the classroom. When the teachers are in the classroom, they
are responsible for all of the children that are in their care. This will also ensure that you receive our undivided
attention. Please do not hesitate to call us to set up a time to address any concerns that you might have about your
child.
Annual Surveys
In the spring, we will send parents a survey on our Preschool program. We encourage you to complete and return
these surveys, as your feedback really helps us grow and learn. However, please never hesitate to approach us with
feedback throughout the school year through daily conversations, conferences, or by phone or email. We are
always open to hearing your concerns and/or recommendations.
FOOD AND SNACKS
Snacks
Everyday a snack is served at school. Typically, we serve snacks such as pretzels, various crackers, goldfish, or vanilla
wafers. Foods such as peanuts, popcorn, or whole marshmallows are never served.
11
Parents are occasionally asked to provide a fresh fruit snack for their child’s classroom. A note will be sent home from
your child’s teacher to inform you of your fresh fruit snack date.
Allergies: Your child’s health is most important to us. If your child can not eat snacks that are served or a special treat
that is brought in, we ask that you provide snacks to be left at school for your child. Be sure to discuss your child’s
specific food allergies with their teacher.
Food Policy
All food or fruit items that are brought in for birthdays, special days, etc. must follow the guidelines listed below (small
portions or mini-sized snacks are best for young children):




Food items must be store-bought in their original packaging with the nutritional label intact. Please read the
labels carefully for nut-free products. If the package has any statements such as: contains peanut or tree nuts,
may contain peanuts or tree nuts, processed on shared equipment with peanuts or tree nuts, or processed in a
plant that also processes peanuts or tree nuts, we will NOT be able to serve the snack.
Home-baked items and unlabeled bakery items are NOT allowed.
Fresh fruit items must be WHOLE (such as apples, clementines, oranges, or bananas). Whole fruit must be cut
at school by staff.
Packaged, store-bought, unopened fresh fruit (such as pre-sliced apples) as well as low sugar fruit cups (such as
applesauce, pears or peaches) are allowed in their original packaging.
For daily snack or classroom parties, all food served will meet the same guidelines as stated above.
Please do not have your child, a sibling or accompanying adult bring in any food items or hot drinks such as coffee
into the classroom due to safety and allergies. Have your child finish breakfast in the car before coming into school.
Gum and candy are not permitted as they are choking hazards.
SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS
Special Days
Parents of children in our 3 Year Old and Pre-K 4’s programs are invited to spend the day at school with their child on
their birthday or “special day.” A “special day” can take the place of a birthday occurring over the summer or during a
vacation period, or if a celebration otherwise can’t occur close to a child’s birthday. Your child’s teacher will send a note
home to let you know which day your visit is scheduled.
On your visiting day, we encourage parents to bring simple SMALL or MINI-SIZED treats for each child in the class. These
treats must meet our food policy guidelines which are stated in this handbook.
When you visit for a birthday or special day, please leave siblings home with a sitter, relative, friend, or another parent.
Your child will appreciate your individual attention and that will make the visit truly special. We welcome you to our
school and hope you enjoy your visit.
Birthdays
When inviting your child’s classmates to celebrate a birthday outside of school, parents should consider inviting all
classmates so that no child feels excluded. In order to prevent confusion and/or loss of invitations, birthday party
invitations may NOT be distributed at school. Thank you for your cooperation.
12
PARENT VOLUNTEERS
Room Parents / Classroom Volunteers
Room Parents serve as the liaison between parents and teachers and help to create a community within each
classroom. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to; coordinating classroom events, reaching out to other parents
who would like to volunteer and assisting classroom teachers as needed. Many room parents organize social events
that help parents get to know each other (i.e. coffees and play dates at the playground). Most classrooms will have two
room parents that work together to coordinate activities.
In addition to Room Parents, we frequently ask parents to volunteer in the classroom as a guest reader, project helper
and/or assist with classroom activities. Your child’s teacher will notify you for sign-up.
We encourage all parents to sign up to volunteer in their child’s class at least one time during the school year. This
opportunity allows you to be part of your child’s learning and to see your child in action in their classroom. All children
in our 3 Year Old and Pre-K 4’s programs have one ‘Special Day’ when a parent will spend the entire day at school.
Field Trips / Walking Trips
The Preschool incorporates the outdoor environment and the community into many aspects of our program.
Occasionally, we will take the children on local walks to the library, police station, or nearby store. WE WILL NOTIFY
YOU IN ADVANCE OF THESE TRIPS.
Periodically, we take the children in our Pre-K 4’s on bus trips. We often ask for parent volunteers to assist with their
child’s class. Unfortunately, we cannot take siblings on these trips. A signed permission slip is required prior to any bus
field trip.
BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT
Our goal is to provide a safe environment for all children. If a child experiences difficulties in our program, the
directors, teachers and families will meet to establish a plan with mutual goals for the child.
We follow the program participant conduct plan stated in the general information of the seasonal park district
brochure.
Discipline Policy
It is our goal to create an environment that allows each child to develop self-management skills and inner control.
The children are provided with consistent, realistic limits and routines and helped to follow them through positive
reinforcement methods only. Children are encouraged to use words, rather than physical means, to resolve
conflicts, and are helped to be in tune with their own feelings and the feelings of other children.
The Preschool staff will communicate their behavioral expectations in a language that children are able to
understand in order to redirect inappropriate behavior. Removal from a scene of conflict will be used in order to
help the child to regain self-control, and is accomplished either through talking with the teacher or moving to a
quieter play area. Positive discipline teaches children about limits, how to maintain control over their bodies and
how to problem solve in the event of conflict. Under no circumstances is corporal punishment or verbal abuse used.
13
Meeting Each Child’s Needs
We recognize the need for and support early intervention for young children when necessary. We work closely with
Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association (NSSRA) to provide additional support to our students and staff. We
can work together to achieve agreed upon goals.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Security
The security of the children and staff in our program is a top priority. We are in a secured area of the building – all doors
are locked during the school day. The outside double glass doors on the NE side of school are closed and locked
immediately after drop off is concluded.
School Emergency Procedures
In the event of the necessity to evacuate the building due to an emergency, the children will be evacuated through the
designated exit and will be escorted to a safe area away from the building. Children will remain outside of the building
until we are informed by the proper authorities that it is safe to reenter.
In the case of a tornado, the emergency tornado procedures will be put in place. The staff and children will remain in
“safe” areas in the building until weather conditions clear.
Safety drills are conducted regularly and are recorded as required for our DCFS licensing review.
Pest Control Procedures
The Jewett Park Preschool Playground is maintained by the Deerfield Park District. Recognizing the importance of
providing safe, as well as attractive park areas, the Park District engages in a supervised program of pesticide
application. Using the most up to date and safest chemicals available, the Park District hopes to control undesirable
insects and plants, etc.
Application is typically done twice, usually in the fall and early spring of the year. When a park/school facility is being
sprayed such as the Jewett Park Preschool Playground, the school directors will be notified in advance. When school is
in session, spraying of ground will be conducted after 4:00pm or on a Saturday.
More detailed information is available upon request.
Radon Testing
The State of Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) requires that all licensed child care facilities hire
an Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) Licensed Radon Measurement Professional to test the radon level in
the building. This testing must be completed every three years and is posted next to our DCFS license.
14
PROGRAM INFORMATION AND POLICIES
Emergency School Closings
The Deerfield Park District Preschool follows the same snow cancellation policy as Deerfield School District 109. If
District 109 has cancelled school due to snow, our Preschool will be closed. If the District has a late start or cancels
school due to cold, we will make every attempt to keep school open. There are no make-up days for emergency closings.
The following sites/numbers will be updated by 7:30am:
Websites: www.dfpd.org or www.emergencyclosing.com
Weather Hotline: (847) 317-2555
Registration / Enrollment
Fall registration for new students is held in early January. Current students are given priority to register before the
general public. ALL REGISTRATIONS AND PAYMENTS ARE HANDLED THROUGH THE DEERFIELD PARK DISTRICT
REGISTRATION DESK AT THE JEWETT PARK COMMUITY CENTER.
Birth Certificate Policy
In order to comply with The Missing Children’s Records Act, The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
(DCFS) requires that we have a certified copy of each child’s birth certificate on file within 30 days of enrollment. We
are required by The Missing Children’s Records Act, to notify the Illinois State Police or local law enforcement agency if a
parent or guardian fails to submit proof of the child’s identity within the 30 day time frame.
School Directory / Photos
A school directory will be distributed shortly after the school year begins. This directory is for the personal use of
Preschool families only and may not be used for any other purpose. In addition, photos may be taken throughout the
school year to create books, display in the classroom or hallway, or used in promotion of park district programs.
If you do not wish for your child’s name to be listed in the school directory, or photos of your child to be used in park
district publicity, please notify the Preschool office by JULY 1.
Every student will receive a class photo taken by a professional photographer in the late fall. Unfortunately, we are
unable to take individual photos at that time.
Throughout the year, many photos are taken of children by the teachers. At the end of the year, many of those photos
will be available to you.
Withdrawal From Program
Please give the Directors at least TWO weeks written notice if you plan to withdraw your child from school.
Unfortunately, there can be no adjustments, make-ups, or refunds when children are absent or on vacation, or if snow
or emergency days occur.
15
16
Deerfield Park District Preschool
Parent Handbook 2016-2017
Please return this page along with your enrollment forms
Date ____ / ______ / _________
Child’s Full Name (please print) _________________________________________________________________
Check age group:
___ LITTLE LEARNERS (3 years by 4/1)
___3 YEAR OLDS (3 years by 9/1)
___PRE-K 4’s (4 years old by 9/1)
I have read the Deerfield Park District Preschool Parent Handbook including the discipline policy as well as the
policies and procedures of the Deerfield Park District Preschool.
Parent /Guardian Name (please print) ____________________________________________________________
Parent /Guardian Signature __________________________________________________________________
17
FOR USE IN DCFS LICENSED CHILD CARE FACILITIES
CFS 600
Rev 5/2006
STATE OF ILLINOIS
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
CERTIFICATE OF CHILD HEALTH EXAMINATION
Please Print
Student’s Name
Address
Last
First
Street
Birth Date
Middle
City
Sex
Grade Level
Parent/
Guardian
ZIP code
ID#
Telephone #
Home
Work
IMMUNIZATIONS: To be completed by health care provider. Note the mo/da/yr for every dose administered. The day and month is required if you cannot determine if
the vaccine was given after the minimum interval or age. If a specific vaccine is medically contraindicated, a separate written statement must be attached explaining
the medical reason for the contraindication.
VACCINE/DOSE
Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis
(DTP or DTaP)
1
DA
MO
YR
MO
2
DA
YR
MO
3
DA
YR
MO
4
DA
YR
MO
5
DA
YR
MO
6
DA
YR
Diphtheria and Tetanus (Pediatric DT or Td)
Inactivated Polio (IPV)
Oral Polio (OPV)
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
Hepatitis B (HB)
Comments
Varicella (Chickenpox)
Combined Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
Measles (Rubeola)
Rubella (3-day measles)
Mumps
Pneumococcal (not required for school entry)
Check specific type (PCV7, PPV23)
…PCV7 …PPV23
…PCV7 …PPV23
…PCV7 …PPV23
…PCV7 …PPV23
…PCV7 …PPV23
…PCV7 …PPV23
Date
Other (Specify hepatitis A, meningococcal, etc.)
Health care provider (MD, DO, APN, PA, school health professional, health official) verifying above immunization history must sign below.
Signature
Title
Date
Title
Date
Title
Date
Signature
(If adding dates to the above immunization history section, put your initials by date(s) and sign here.)
Signature
(If adding dates to the above immunization history section, put your initials by date(s) and sign here.)
ALTERNATIVE PROOF OF IMMUNITY
1.
Clinical diagnosis is acceptable if verified by physician.
*(All measles cases diagnosed on or after July 1, 2002, must be confirmed by laboratory evidence.)
*MEASLES (Rubeola) MO DA YR
MUMPS MO DA YR
VARICELLA MO DA YR
Physician’s Signature
2.
History of varicella (chickenpox) disease is acceptable if verified by health care provider, school health professional or health official.
Person signing below is verifying that the parent/guardian’s description of varicella disease history is indicative of past infection and is accepting such history as documentation of disease.
Date of Disease
3.
Signature
Title
… Measles
Laboratory confirmation (check one)
Lab Results
Date
… Mumps
MO
DA
… Rubella
Date
… Hepatitis B
… Varicella
(Attach copy of lab report, if available.)
YR
VISION AND HEARING SCREENING DATA
Pre-school – annually beginning at age 3; School age – during school year at required grade levels
Date
Age/Grade
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
R
Vision
Hearing
Printed by Authority of the State of Illinois
(Complete Both Sides)
IL444-4737 (R-01-05)
L
R
L
R
L
R
L
Code:
P = Pass
F = Fail
U = Unable to
test
R = Referred
G/C = Glasses/
Contacts
Last
Sex
Birth Date
Student’s Name
First
Middle
School
Grade Level/ ID #
Month/Day/ Year
HEALTH HISTORY
TO BE COMPLETED AND SIGNED BY PARENT/GUARDIAN AND VERIFIED BY HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
ALLERGIES (Food, drug, insect, other)
MEDICATION (List all prescribed or taken on a regular basis.)
Yes
Diagnosis of asthma?
Child wakes during the night coughing? Yes
No
No
Birth complications/prematurity?
Yes
No
Developmental delay?
Blood disorders? Hemophilia,
Sickle Cell, Other? Explain.
Diabetes?
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Surgery? (List all.)
When? What for?
Serious injury or illness?
Head injury/Concussion/Passed out?
Yes
No
TB skin test positive (past/present)?
Yes*
Seizures? What are they like?
Yes
No
TB disease (past or present)?
No
Tobacco use (type, frequency)?
Heart problem/Shortness of breath?
Yes
Indicate Severity
Yes
No
Heart murmur/High blood pressure?
Dizziness or chest pain with
Yes
No
exercise?
Eye/Vision problems? _____ Glasses … Contacts … Last exam by eye doctor _______
Other concerns? (crossed eye, drooping lids, squinting, difficulty reading)
Ear/Hearing problems?
Bone/Joint problem/injury/scoliosis?
Yes
No
Yes
No
Loss of function of one of paired
organs? (eye/ear/kidney/testicle)
Yes
No
Hospitalizations?
When? What for?
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
Yes*
No
No *If yes, refer to local health
department.
No
Alcohol/Drug use?
Yes
Yes
No
No
Family history of sudden death
before age 50? (Cause?)
Yes
No
Dental
… Braces
Other concerns?
… Bridge … Plate Other
Information may be shared with appropriate personnel for health and educational purposes.
Parent/Guardian
Signature
Date
Entire section below to be completed by MD/DO/APN/PA
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS
HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE
HEIGHT
WEIGHT
BMI
B/P
DIABETES SCREENING (Not required for daycare.) BMI>85% age/sex Yes… No… And any two of the following: Family History Yes …
No …
Ethnic Minority Yes… No … Signs of Insulin Resistance (hypertension, dyslipidemia, polycystic ovarian syndrome, acanthosis nigricans) Yes… No … At Risk Yes … No …
LEAD RISK QUESTIONAIRE Required for children age 6 months through 6 years enrolled in licensed or public school operated day care, preschool, nursery school and/or kindergarten.
Questionairre Administered? Yes … No … Blood Test Indicated? Yes … No …
Blood Test Date
Blood Test Result
.
(If child resides in Chicago, blood test is required.)
TB SKIN TEST Recommended only for children in high-risk groups including children who are immunosuppressed due to HIV infection or other conditions, recent immigrants from high
/
/
Result
mm
prevalence countries, or those exposed to adults in high-risk categories. See CDC guidelines. … No Test Needed … Test performed Date Read
Date
Results
Date
Results
LAB TESTS (Recommended)
Hemoglobin or Hematocrit
Sickle Cell (when indicated)
Urinalysis
SYSTEM REVIEW Normal
Developmental Screening Tool
Comments/Follow-up/Needs
Normal
Skin
Endocrine
Ears
Gastrointestinal
Eyes
Normal
Yes… No…
Amblyopia Yes… No…
Objective screening Yes… No… Result______________
Referred to Opthalmologist/Optometrist Yes… No…
Comments/Follow-up/Needs
Genito-Urinary
LMP
Neurological
Nose
Musculoskeletal
Throat
Spinal examination
Mouth/Dental
Nutritional status
Cardiovascular/HTN
Mental Health
Respiratory
NEEDS/MODIFICATIONS required in the school setting
DIETARY Needs/Restrictions
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS/DEVICES e.g. safety glasses, glass eye, chest protector for arrhythmia, pacemaker, prosthetic device, dental bridge, false teeth, athletic support/cup
MENTAL HEALTH/OTHER
Is there anything else the school should know about this student?
If you would like to discuss this student’s health with school or school health personnel, check title: … Nurse
… Teacher … Counselor … Principal
EMERGENCY ACTION needed while at school due to child’s health condition (e.g. ,seizures, asthma, insect sting, food, peanut allergy, bleeding problem, diabetes, heart problem)?
Yes … No …
If yes, please describe.
On the basis of the examination on this day, I approve this child’s participation in
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Yes …
No …
Modified …
(If No or Modified,please attach explanation.)
INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS (for one year)
Yes …
Physician/Advanced Practice Nurse/Physician Assistant performing examination
Print Name
Address
Signature
Date
Phone
(Complete both sides)
No …
Limited …
SUMMARY OF
LICENSING
STANDARDS
FOR
DAY CARE
CENTERS
Introduction
The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is responsible
for licensing day care centers. When a day care center is licensed, it means
that a DCFS licensing representative has inspected the facility and the
facility was found to meet the minimum licensing requirements. A license
is valid for three years. The day care center’s license must be posted. It
will indicate the maximum number of children allowed in the facility and
the areas where children may receive care.
Licensed day care facilities are inspected annually by DCFS licensing staff.
If a complaint has been received regarding a violation of the licensing
standards of a day care center, a licensing representative will conduct a
licensing complaint investigation to determine if the alleged violation should
be substantiated or unsubstantiated. Individuals may contact the Day Care
Information Line to learn of substantiated violations.
Day Care Information Line
1-877-746-0829
This statewide toll-free information line provides information to the
public on the past history and record, including substantiated violations,
of licensed day care homes, day care centers, and group day care homes.
This number operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Summary of Licensing Standards for Day Care Centers
The following is a summary of the licensing standards for day care centers.
It has been prepared for you so that you may monitor the care provided
to your child. This is a summary and does not include all of the licensing
standards for a day care center. State licensing standards are minimum
standards. If you observe a violation of any of these standards, you are
encouraged to discuss your concerns with the day care center operator. In
most cases, parents and day care operators are able to resolve the parents’
concerns and issues. If you believe the day care operator is not responding
to your concerns and may not be meeting state licensing standards, you
may make a complaint to the local DCFS Licensing Office or by calling the
Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-2873 and stating that you want to make
a licensing complaint. A DCFS licensing representative will investigate
your complaint and report the results back to you. The day care center is
required to provide a copy of its own written policies regarding the operation of the facility to each staff person and to parents of enrolled children.
Staffing
•
The day care center must have a qualified child care director on site at
all times. The director must be at least 21 years old, have completed
two years of college or have equivalent experience and credentials.
•
Early childhood teachers must be at least 19 years old, have two years
of college or have equivalent experience and credentials.
•
School-age workers must be at least 19 years of age and at least five
years older than the oldest child in their care. They must have completed
one year of college or have the equivalent experience and credentials.
•
Early childhood assistants and school-age assistants must have a high
school diploma or the equivalent and must work under direct supervision
of an early childhood teacher or a school-age worker.
•
Student and youth aides must be at least 14 years of age, at least five
years older than the oldest child in their care, and must work under
direct supervision of an early childhood teacher or a school-age worker.
•
Student and youth aides are not generally counted for purposes of
maintaining staff/child ratios.
•
The director and all child care staff must have 15 hours of in-service
training annually.
•
All staff must have current medical reports on file and are subject to
background checks for any record of criminal conviction or child abuse
and neglect.
•
A person certified in first aid, including CPR and the Heimlich maneuver,
must be present at all times.
Group Size and Staff Requirements:
AGE OF CHILDREN
STAFF/CHILD
RATIO
MAXIMUM
GROUP SIZE
1 to 4
1 to 5
1 to 8
1 to 10
1 to 10
1 to 20
1 to 20
12
15
16
20
20
20
30
Infants (6 weeks through 14 months)
Toddlers (15 through 23 months)
Two years
Three years
Four years
Five years (preschool)
School-age: Kindergartners present
•
Exception: One early childhood teacher and an assistant may supervise
a group of up to 30 children if all of the children are at least five years
of age.
•
Whenever children of different ages are combined, the staff/child ratio
and maximum group size must be based on the age of the youngest
child in the group.
General Program Requirements
•
Parents must be allowed to visit the center without an appointment any
time during normal hours of operation.
•
Staff must demonstrate respect for each child enrolled regardless of
gender, ability, cultural, ethic or religious differences.
•
There must be a balance of active and quiet activity. Daily indoor and
outdoor activities are to be provided for children to make use of both
large and small muscles.
•
In pre-school programs where children receive care for less than three
hours per day, outdoor activity is not required.
•
Children may not be left unattended at any time.
Infants and Toddlers
•
Infants and toddlers must be in separate space away from older children.
•
A refrigerator and sink must be easily accessible.
•
Toys and indoor equipment must be cleaned and disinfected daily. Safe,
durable equipment and play materials must be provided.
•
Either the day care center or the parent may provide food for infants
not consuming table food. Feeding times and amounts consumed must
be documented in writing.
•
No food other than formula, milk, breast milk or water may be placed
in a bottle for infant feeding. Microwaves are not to be used for bottle
warming.
•
Children who cannot turn over alone must be placed on their backs.
•
The facility must have a clearly defined diaper changing area with the
procedures for changing diapers clearly posted. A hand-washing sink
must be accessible for hand washing.
•
Staff changing diapers must wash their hands and the child’s hands
with soap and running water after diapering.
•
Information about feeding, elimination and other important information
must be recorded in writing and made available to parents when the
child is picked up at the end of the day.
•
Only new cribs manufactured on or after June 28, 2011 must be in place
School-Age Children
•
The facility must have a designated area for school-age children so they
do not interfere with the care of younger children.
•
Clear definitions of responsibility and procedures are to be established
among parent, day care center and school when children move to and
from school.
•
A variety of developmentally appropriate activities and materials
must be available for children. Opportunities must be provided to do
homework, if requested.
Evening, Night and Weekend Care
•
Family-like groups of mixed ages are allowed.
•
Staff must be awake at all times and in the sleeping area whenever
children are sleeping.
•
Each child must have an individual cot, bed or crib.
•
An evening meal and a bedtime snack must be served.
•
Breakfast must be served to all children who have been at the facility
throughout the night and are present between 6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.
Enrollment and Discharge
•
Parents must be provided the names, business address and telephone
number of persons legally responsible for the program.
•
Parents must be provided, in writing, information on the program, fees,
arrival and departure policies explaining to the parents and guardians
what actions the caregiver will take if children are not pick up at the
agreed upon time, and the guidance and discipline policies.
•
Parents must complete an enrollment application, which includes, for
first time enrolment, providing a certified copy of their child’s birth
certificate (which will be copied by the center and returned to the parent),
emergency numbers, and persons authorized to pick up their child.
•
A child may only be released to a parent or other responsible person
designated by the parent.
•
Daily arrival and departure logs must be kept by the center.
Guidance and Discipline
•
Parents must be given a copy of the guidance and discipline policy.
•
The following are prohibited:
- corporal punishment
- threatened or actual withdrawal of food, rest or use of the bathroom
- abusive or profane language
- public or private humiliation
- emotional abuse, including shaming, rejecting, terrorizing or
isolating a child
•
“Time-out” is to be limited to one minute per year of age. “Time-out”
may not be used for children less than two years of age.
Transportation
•
•
•
The driver must be 21 years of age and hold a driver’s license that has
been continuously valid for three years.
Children must not be allowed to stand or sit on the floor of the vehicle.
Age appropriate safety restraints must be used when transporting
children in vehicles other than school buses.
The driver must make sure that a responsible person is present to take
charge of a child when delivered to his or her destination.
Health Requirements for Children
•
A medical report indicating that the child has been appropriately
immunized must be on file for each child. Parents are encouraged to be
informed about childhood immunizations by going to the following Web
site: http://www.state.il.us/dcfs/daycare/Childhood_Immunizations.
shtml. A tuberculin skin test is to be included in the initial exam unless
waived by a physician.
•
The medical report is valid for two years for infants and preschool
children. Exams for school-age children are required consistent with
the requirements of the public schools.
•
The center will comply with the Illinois Department of Public Health’s
Hearing and Vision Screening Codes and the Illinois Child Vision and
Hearing Test Act.
•
Children aged one to six years must have either a lead risk assessment
or a lead screening.
•
Water must be freely available to all children.
•
Children’s hands must be washed with soap and water upon arrival at
the center, before and after meals or using the toilet, after wiping or
blowing their noses, after outdoor play and after coming into contact
with any soiled objects.
•
Prescription and non-prescription medication may be accepted only in
its original container. The center must maintain a record of the dates,
times administered, dosages, prescription number (if applicable) and
the name of the person administering the medication.
•
Medication must be kept in locked cabinets or other containers that are
inaccessible to children.
Nutrition and Meals
•
Menus must be posted.
•
Meals and snacks must meet nutritional guidelines.
•
Children in care two to five hours must be served a snack. Children
in care five to 10 hours must be served a meal and two snacks or two
meals and one snack. Children in care more than 10 hours must be
served two meals and two snacks or one meal and three snacks.
Napping and Sleeping
•
Children under six years of age who remain five or more hours must
have the opportunity to rest or nap.
•
Infants must sleep in safe, sturdy, freestanding cribs or portable cribs.
•
Toddlers may use either stacking cots or full-size cribs.
•
A cot or bed must be provided for each toddler or preschool child in
attendance five or more hours. Each cot, bed or crib must be labeled
with the name of the child.
Physical Space
•
Infants and toddlers must be housed and cared for at ground level unless
special approval has been granted from the Department.
•
Indoor space must provide a safe, comfortable environment for the
children. Floors and floor coverings must be washable and free from
drafts and dampness.
•
Toilets and lavatories must be readily accessible to the children.
•
Hot and cold running water must be provided.
•
Hazardous items must be inaccessible to children.
•
Parents must be notified before pesticides are applied, unless in an
emergency
•
Exits must be unlocked and clear of equipment and debris.
•
Drills for fire and tornado must be conducted. A floor plan must be posted
in every room indicating the areas providing the most safety in the case
of a tornado and the primary and secondary exit routes in case of fire.
•
Smoking or the use of tobacco products in any form is prohibited in the
child care center or in the presence of children while on the playground
or on trips away from the center.
•
Play materials must be durable and free from hazardous characteristics.
•
The facility may not use or have on the premises any unsafe children’s
product as described in the Children’s Product Safety Act. Lists of
unsafe children’s products and recalls from 1989 to now are available
at: www.idph.state.il.us/webapp/SRSApp/pages/index.jsp.
•
The facility must be cleaned daily and kept in sanitary condition at all
times.
•
First-aid kits must be maintained and readily available for use.
Outdoor Play Area
•
Play space must be fenced or otherwise enclosed or protected from
traffic and other hazards. There must be a shaded area in summer to
protect children from excessive sun exposure.
•
All areas of the outdoor play space must be visible to staff at all times.
•
Equipment must be free of sharp points or corners, splinters, protruding
nails or bolts, loose or rusty parts, the potential for entrapment and/or
other hazards.
•
Protective surfaces must be provided under equipment from which a
child might fall
•
All swimming pools must be fenced or otherwise inaccessible to
children.
•
During hours of operation and at all times that children are present
there must be a means for parents of enrolled children to have direct
telephone contact with a center staff person.
This summary has been developed to assist parents in monitoring the care
provided by the day care center.
For a complete copy of the Licensing Standards, write or call
Department of Children and Family Services
Office of Child and Family Policy
406 East Monroe Street
Springfield, Illinois 62701
Telephone (217) 524-1983
Licensing Standards for Day Care Centers may also be accessed through
the DCFS website: www.state.il.us/dcfs and following the links to Part
407, Licensing Standards for Day Care Centers. You may also contact your
nearest DCFS office.
Printed by Authority of the State of Illinois
DCFS #89 – August 2012 – 30,000 Copies
CFS 1050-52 – Rev. 8/2012
I/WE, __________________________________________________________________________________
Please Print Name(s)
VERIFICATION OF RECEIPT
State of Illinois
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
_______________________
Date
__________________________________________________________
Signature of Parent
THIS COMPLETED FORM IS TO BE PLACED IN EACH CHILD’S FILE AT THE DAY CARE FACILITY.
_______________________
Date
__________________________________________________________
Signature of Parent
received a copy of a summary of licensing standards printed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
parent(s) of _____________________________________________________________, hereby certify that I/we have
Name(s) of Child(ren)
CFS 581
Rev. 12/2000
Deerfield Park District Preschool
ROOM PARENTS serve as the liaison between parents and teachers and help to create a
community within each classroom. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to;
coordinating classroom events, reaching out to other parents who would like to volunteer, and
assisting classroom teachers as needed. Many room parents organize social events that help
parents get to know each other (i.e. coffees and play dates at the playground).
Most classrooms will have two room parents that work together to coordinate activities.
If you are interested in being your child’s classroom ROOM PARENT, please cut the bottom
portion and return to the Preschool Office with your enrollment forms by JULY 1. Room
Parents will be selected at the beginning of school. Thank you!
__________ _____ __________ _____ _______________
ROOM PARENTS 2016-2017
Date ____ / ____ / ________
Child’s Name (please print) ________________________________________________________
Circle: Little Learners (3 years old by April 1) 3 YEAR OLDS (3 years old by Sept 1) PRE-K 4’S (4 years old by Sept 1)
Parent/Guardian Name (please print) ________________________________________________
Home Phone _____________________________ Cell Phone ___________________________
Deerfield Park District Preschool
September 2016
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
1
Friday
2 Meet & Greet
Open House
(parent and child)
Little Learners
9:00 - 9:45am
3 Year Olds, Pre-K 4’s
10:00 - 11:00am
5
6
7
8
No School
Little Learners
Pre-Conferences*
3 Year Olds
Pre-Conferences*
Labor Day
(parent and child)
(parent and child)
Pre-K 4’s
Pre-Conferences*
Pre-K 4’s
Begin regular hours
8:45 - 11:15am
(parent and child)
9
Little Learners
Shortened hours
9:00 - 10:00am or
10:15 -11:15am
3 Year Olds
Shortened hours
9:00 - 10:00am or
10:15 - 11:15am
(children only, teacher
will assign time)
(children only, teacher
will assign time)
(children only)
12
13
14
15
16
3 Year Olds
Begin regular hours
8:45 -11:15am
Little Learners
Shortened hours
9:00 - 10:30am
Little Learners
Begin regular hours
9:00 - 11:15am
(children only)
(children only)
(children only)
3’s, Pre-K 4’s
Drop Off begins
(if child is ready)
19
20
21
22
23
26
27
28
29
30
Family Night
Little Learners
5:00 - 5:45pm
3 Year Olds, Pre-K 4’s
6:00 - 7:00pm
*Your child’s teacher will assign a specific pre-conference time – a 15 minute meeting held during school hours.
Deerfield Park District Preschool
All Year School Calendar
2016 – 2017
September
January
Fri., Sept. 2
Meet and Greet All Age Groups
Mon., Jan. 2
No School – Legal Holiday
Mon., Sept. 5
No School – Labor Day
Tue., Jan. 3
School Resumes
Tues., Sept. 6
Pre-conferences for Little Learners,
Pre-K (child and parent)
Mon., Jan. 16
No School – MLK Day
Wed., Sept. 7
Pre-conferences for 3 Year Olds
(child and parent)
Fri., Sept. 30
Family Night
Sat. Feb. 4
VIP and Me (morning event)
Mon., Feb. 20 No School – President’s Day
October
Mon., Oct. 3
February
No School – Rosh Hashanah
Mon., Oct. 10 No School – Columbus Day
March
Tues., Oct. 11 No School – Teacher In-service
Mon., Mar. 6
Wed., Oct. 12 No School – Yom Kippur
Thu. , Mar. 16 Evening conferences (3’s, Pre-K’s)
No School – Pulaski Day
Mon., Mar. 27 No School – Spring Break
(through Friday, March 31)
November
Fri. Nov. 11
No School – Veteran’s Day
Tues., Nov. 22 No School – Thanksgiving Break
April
Mon., Apr. 3
School resumes
Mon., Nov. 28 School Resumes
Fri., Apr. 14
No School – Good Friday
December
May
Mon., Dec. 19 No School – Winter Break
Wed., May 24 Last day of school 3 Year Old program
(through Friday, November 25)
(through Monday, January 2)
Thur., May 25 Last day of school Little Learners, Pre-K
Fri., May 26
Teacher In-Service
Edited 04/15/2016
Deerfield Park District Preschool
MEET & GREET
Family Open House
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2nd
Little Learners
9:00-9:45am
3 Year Olds & Pre-K 4’s
10:00-11:00am