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Policies & Procedures
Download the parent handbook here, or review the policies and procedures below.
 Vision
The vision of Central Baptist Church Preschool is to impact Eastern Wake County through our ministries to preschoolers with the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a manner that will both glorify God and transform our communities for generations to come.
Mission
At Central Baptist Church, we exist to EXALT the Lord Jesus Christ, ENCOURAGE Spiritual Maturity and EXPRESS the Love of Jesus Christ. The main mission of Central Baptist Preschool is to assist families by providing Christian childcare in order to “train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6). It is Central’s desire to partner with parents in their effort to lay strong spiritual foundations in the lives of their young children.
Purpose
Central Baptist Church Preschool (CBC Preschool) is a ministry of Central Baptist Church. We accept the responsibility of offering quality Christian education, both spiritually and academically. The Preschool will be an extension of a Godly and Christian home and therefore we will work with the parents to meet the Christian-based goals they have for their children. It is also to be an arm of the church, leading families into its fellowship throughout our community.
Using Deuteronomy 6:4-7 as a Biblical model, we are to diligently teach our children how to love God with all of their heart, soul and strength. Our desire for each Preschooler is that they:
• learn about Jesus and His love for them
• learn about the Bible
• think of Central Baptist Preschool as a safe and happy place
• realize the importance of family
• make new friends
Chrisitian Philosophy of Education
“Happy is the man that finds wisdom, and the man that gets understanding” (Proverbs 3:13).
At Central Baptist Church Preschool, teaching children about the love of Jesus Christ is our very first priority. We emphasize loving one another the way Jesus loves us and treating one another with respect. This philosophy is woven throughout our curriculum and is demonstrated in our lesson plans, in our discipline, and in our relationships.
We believe that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” and that all knowledge has its foundation in the Word of God. We believe the Bible is God’s inspired Word and will teach it as such, helping children to develop attitudes of love and respect toward it. We train the children to hope in the Lord, to love Him and keep His commandments. We encourage the children to know and obey the will of God as revealed in the Scriptures. We strive to stimulate and enlarge the child’s involvement in the church and its worldwide tasks of witnessing and evangelizing.
As a staff, we strive to be models of Christ in our understanding, patience and love; as such, everything we do and say is in consideration of the children. Because a child develops spiritually, mentally, physically, socially, and emotionally, we are committed to providing biblically based, developmentally appropriate experiences to allow each child to progress in these areas at his or her own level of ability, while enjoying feelings of success. This is done primarily through our curriculum with hands-on-learning activities in learning centers and the positive, Christ-like role modeling of the staff. We view ourselves as partners with parents in the task of teaching and loving the children in our care. The following are some things you can look for while in our classrooms:
• The children will spend most of their time playing and working with materials or other children. They will not wander aimlessly and will not be expected to sit still for long periods of time.
• Children will be taught God’s Word through stories, activities, games and crafts. In addition, God’s principles will be demonstrated through the teacher modeling God’s love and teaching children to follow Jesus’ example of love, respect and honor.
• Children will have access to various activities throughout the day. Some of the activities and materials you will see are assorted building blocks and other construction materials, props for pretend play, picture books, paint and other art materials, science toys, table toys and puzzles.
• The teachers will be working with individual children, small groups and whole groups at different times during the day. The children will not be spending all their time with the whole group.
• The classroom will be decorated with the children’s original artwork, their own writing and with invented spelling and stories dictated by the children to the teachers.
• The children will learn numbers and the alphabet in their everyday experiences. Everything can be created to be a learning experience.
• The children will be engaged in projects, yet still have long periods of time to play and explore.
• The children will have an opportunity to play outside every day, weather permitting.
• The teachers will always have time to read books to the children. Reading will not be limited to only circle time.
• Our teachers recognize that children’s different backgrounds and experiences mean that children do not learn the same thing at the same time, in the same way. Therefore, curriculum will be adapted for each class and each individual child.
Teaching Staff
The faculty and staff of Central Baptist Church Preschool are committed Christians called of God to teach, train and minister to the whole child: spirit, soul and body. We believe our teachers are
important role models and have a tremendous impact on the lives of our children. They will teach and evaluate, plan and prepare, relate and counsel, pray and care. Our staff looks forward to serving the needs of your child(ren). Please pray for them and give them your respect and encouragement.
All Lead Teachers and the Director are required to obtain CPR and first aid training. Prior to hiring each employee must have a criminal records check. Central Baptist Preschool only accepts employees with a commitment to parents and children.
The teachers are employed by Central Baptist Preschool and are accountable to the Director. The Director is also employed by Central Baptist Preschool and is accountable to the Executive Board. The Central Baptist Preschool personnel policies reflect the respect felt for staff as professionals and provide a basis for understanding and meeting the needs of both the Preschool and the families.
Parent Participation
We recognize the importance of the parent-teacher/family-school relationship and therefore encourage participation in the classroom and at special events. You are always welcome and encouraged to visit at any time. Parents are invited to make suggestions and to share their special talents in the classroom. Children are proud when their parents come to the school. Participating in your child’s class can be an enriching experience for you, your child and the entire class. We ask only that you report your presence to the office before proceeding to your child’s class. This is a precautionary measure for the safety of the children.
Cooperation Expectations
All children attending Central Baptist Church Preschool should be a result of the parent’s desire to have their child educated in accordance with our educational philosophy. In order for this program to be effective, parental cooperation is essential. Parents who find themselves in disagreement with the program and philosophy at Central Baptist Church Preschool retain the right to remove their child. Likewise, the Administration of Central Baptist Church Preschool retains the right to dismiss anyone from the program who, in the sole judgment of the administration, is considered to be uncooperative with the program.
Parent Communication
Central Baptist Preschool understands the importance of communication between our preschool and our parents. CBC Preschool will provide multiple methods of communication throughout the year. Families are encouraged to suggest additional means of communication. Our communication methods are as follows:
• Communication Folders: these folders are located in each classroom and each child will have a folder labeled with his or her name. This folder contains their artwork and crafts, important fliers and reminders, a daily behavior log, and the teacher notes and a place for parents to place notes for teachers. Parents should check their child’s folder every day.
• Newsletter: A CBC Preschool Newsletter will be distributed each month. This will keep you informed of upcoming events, activities and projects at the Preschool, as well as topics related to early childhood development and education.
• Website: Please visit our website, www.cbcpreschool.org. You will find overall information about the Preschool and each classroom, special events and programs, a monthly calendar, information on our staff and policies.
• Conferences/Evaluations: Parent/teacher conferences will be offered two times a year, one conference in January and one in June, to discuss your child’s progress. We may also offer periodic assessments, which would be discussed during these meetings. Your child’s teacher is also available to meet with you throughout the year. The purpose of these conferences is for sharing information and ideas about your child’s growth and development.
• Informal Conversations and Notes: Each day, teachers may talk informally with parents as you drop off or pick up your child. Please share any pertinent information about your child, such as a recent emotional upset or interrupted sleep pattern the previous night.
Hours of Operation
Operating hours are Monday through Friday from 7:00 am until 6:00pm, September through August. No children will be admitted into the building before 6:55 am. Transferring of responsibility will not occur before 7:00am. Late fees of $1.00 per minute per child will be charged to the account of any child who has not been picked up by 6:00pm. The fee will be assessed to your next week’s tuition. The clock in the foyer of the preschool wing will be the official time device. We ask that we be notified of any late arrivals so that we may properly prepare for lunch. We begin the process of ordering lunches everyday at 9:00 am. If your child will be attending class after 9:00am, and you have not called the Preschool of your child’s late arrival, you must make arrangements for his/her lunch off campus. We ask that you plan your arrival before noon so that naptime will not be disturbed.
Enrollment Procedures
All families wishing to enroll your child(ren) should submit the following prior to your start date:
• Initial Enrollment Form
• Experience Record
• Children’s Medical Report
• Immunization Record
• Safe Sleep Policy (for infants up to 12 months)
• Discipline Policy
• Summary of NC Laws Statement
• Signed Copy of the Parent Handbook (included in this manual).
On each application, we require that you submit any phone numbers where you may possibly be reached in case of emergency. Please notify us immediately if any phone number or address changes. We want to ensure that we are able to reach you at all times to ensure proper care of each child.
A. Parents may secure childcare applications from the center during regular office hours (7am to 6pm).
B. The application must be returned to the center at least a week before the requested first day of attendance
C. Parents are required to submit a medical examination report and current immunization report on their child no later than the first day of enrollment
D. Parents are encouraged to visit the center before their child is enrolled and should bring their child with them. This will give the parents and child an opportunity to meet the teachers and other children before the first full day of attendance.
E. Parents are required to either attend an orientation meeting or have a pre-enrollment conference with the Director prior to the child’s first day of enrollment. During this meeting, parents are encouraged to share information about their child, discuss expectations and ask any questions they may have.
F. Parents must agree to comply with the policies as described within this handbook prior to the first day of enrollment.
G. CBC Preschool will hold an early enrollment period prior to the general public enrollment period for existing children and siblings of current students for the following year.
H. At the time of enrollment, parents are required to sign a tuition agreement, an annual registration fee of $100.00 and one week tuition in advance per child. THE REGISTRATION FEE IS NONREFUNDABLE. The registration fee/tuition will also serve as a deposit to secure your child’s space for a minimum of one week. At the end of the week, the child will need to have started the program and another week of tuition will be due. The space is forfeited when financial obligation is not met.
When a child is enrolled, parents should become familiar with the daily schedule of activities for their child’s class. Information, including the specific topic for the week, is posted in each classroom. Important information-such as notices of meetings or events, requests for information from parents, and notes from teachers-will be placed in a child’s folder, and may be posted online as well. In addition, teachers sometimes post in the classroom a list of special items needed for the class, or items needed that week for “Show and Tell”. Please stay informed of daily activities and read any notices posted so your child can fully participate in and benefit from the services offered. Also, please talk with your child about what happens at school and what he/she is learning.
All children entering the three-and four-year-old classrooms MUST be completely potty-trained. A child who is potty-trained no longer wears diapers or pull-ups, and keeps his/her underwear clean and dry on a regular basis. Accidents may happen occasionally, but not frequently. For children who are of potty-training age, we STRONGLY encourage the use of underwear or training pants rather than pull-ups. In our experience, pull-ups are not the most effective method for potty-training children. As a team, the parents and teachers need to take into consideration the child’s readiness before beginning the process of potty-training.
In accordance with State regulations, soiled clothing and bedding will be placed in a plastic bag that will be sealed and placed on top of your child’s cubby for you to retrieve that afternoon. We are NOT allowed to launder soiled clothing or bedding in ANY way. Please be aware of this, as you will need to handle the contents of the plastic bag accordingly.
Enrollment may be terminated at any time and for any reason by either the parents or the Administration with a two-week written notice. The Administration reserves the right to terminate enrollment immediately if necessary for the protection of the staff or other children at the Preschool. Tuition must be paid in full whether or not the child attends during the last two weeks and regardless of which party initiates the termination.
Withdrawal
A written two-week notice is required to terminate your place with Central Baptist Church Preschool. Payment is due for the notice period whether or not the child attends CBC Preschool during that time. Any outstanding fees must be paid on or before the child’s last day of school.
• There will be no refund for early withdrawals.
• We will give you a two-week notice if it becomes necessary to terminate a child’s place with us. We do, however, reserve the right to terminate a child’s enrollment immediately if circumstances demand we do so.
• All fees are subject to change. Tuition charges will be reevaluated annually.
Drop Off and Picking Up
a child is dropped off and picked up, an adult’s signature and the time must be recorded on the Sign In/Sign Out sheet. The Sign In/Sign Out sheet will be kept with the teacher wherever the children go in the facility and is turned in to the Administration at the end of each day. We request that parents not enter their child’s classroom while talking on their cellular phone.
We feel that during drop-off and pick-up, parents and teachers should be communicating about the children. When dropping off or picking up your child, please be sure to make contact with one of the teachers in the room, acknowledging transfer of responsibility for the child. Children will not be permitted to sign themselves in or out of class. Children are not to be let off by themselves outside the building-they must be escorted to and from their classrooms by an adult. Children may only be released to adults authorized by the child’s enrollment form. If the adult picking up the child is unfamiliar to the staff, the child’s enrollment form will be checked for the adult’s name and a picture ID will be required before the child can be released. Licensing prohibits a child-care provider from releasing children to a parent/guardian or any other person who is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. If we have reason to believe that anyone picking up a child is under the influence of any substances, we will not release the child into his/her custody, and the proper authorities will be called immediately. No one under the age of 18 will be allowed to pick up a child. This includes siblings, other relatives, and babysitters. For their protection, children are not allowed to run in the hallways, leave the care of an adult or open doors by themselves. Please do not allow your child to do these things while in your care. We strongly encourage you to have your child in class each morning before the classroom’s scheduled group time begins so your child benefits from the biblical and academic lessons that are taught. When children arrive during or after this time, they are not only missing their focused learning time, but are also depriving the other children of that child’s contribution. Also, please do not bring your child into the classroom during nap time, as it is especially difficult for your child to transition at this time, and is disruptive to the other children.
Clothing
In order for your child to enjoy his/her time at preschool, we advise you to dress them in play clothes suitable to the weather and normal daily activities. Socks and shoes with non-slip soles are also required. Socks must be worn even when children are wearing sandals. No flip flops are allowed-all shoes must have a back of some fashion that secures the child’s heel. Tennis shoes work best. An extra set of weather-appropriate clothing (including shoes) should be kept in the child’s cubby at all times. If your child is potty-training, it would be wise to include several extra pairs of underwear, pants/shorts, and socks, and one extra pair of shoes. Please mark clothing with your child’s name to insure that clothing is not misplaced. Parents should check their child’s cubby should be checked daily for soiled clothing. In accordance with State regulations, soiled clothing and bedding will be placed in a plastic bag that will be sealed and placed on top of your child’s cubby for you to retrieve that afternoon. We are NOT allowed to launder soiled clothing with solid waste or bedding in ANY way. Please be aware of this, as you will need to handle the contents of the plastic bag accordingly. Please remember that CBC Preschool does not allow clothing with pictures of super heroes or any other violent play figures. If your child comes to school wearing inappropriate clothing, you will be asked to change your child’s clothes or they will be changed for you by the teacher. If a change of clothing is not available within the Center, you will be asked to take your child home and return him/her with suitable attire.
Supplies
Parents are required to supply those items which are necessary for the proper care of their child:
• Extra set of weather-appropriate clothing (See above section for details.)
• Crib-size sheet and blanket for naptime
• Box of tissues (to be used by entire class)
• Wipes (for all classes) Diapers, if applicable. We do not promote the use of pull-ups for potty-training children, as we do not believe they are the most effective method of training a child.
• Bottles with prepared formula or breast milk, labeled with child’s name and the date (infant room only).
• Jarred baby food (infant room only).
• Bibs may be provided by parent if desired, Preschool will have bibs on hand (infant room only).
Bringing Toys From Home
Unless it is designated Show-and-Tell day, please do not allow your child to bring any of his/her toys or costume jewelry from home, as the toys can become misplaced or broken. No forms of “violent” toys are permitted at CBC Preschool. We make every attempt to get along with one another and discourage “power” or aggressive play. In light of this principal, we ask that no action figures (including but not limited to Batman, Power Rangers, Pokémon, Superman, Power Puff Girls, Spiderman, G.I. Joe, etc.) be brought to the Preschool. We also respectfully ask that no regalia such as backpacks, sheets, pillows, shirts, shoes, underwear, etc. be brought or worn. In a similar spirit, we also discourage the promotion of Halloween. Therefore, we respectfully ask that no costumes such as witches, ghost, or other potentially frightening characters be brought into the classroom.
Visiting Your Child During Preschool hours
We have an “open door” policy. Parents have free access at all times to all areas used by children. If you are coming to observe your child, we ask that you observe them through the observation window located at each classroom. If you plan to enter the classroom during your visit, please be sensitive to your child’s expectations. Children often mistake a visit as an early pick-up and become upset when they discover they are not leaving with their parent.
Parking
We ask that you please park in the designated parking area for our Preschool. Please do not park in the circle drive when picking up or dropping off your child. Do not leave the engine running or a younger sibling in the vehicle at arrival or departure. The entrance is very busy and can be very dangerous. Please use caution when entering and exiting the center. For everyone’s safety, we ask that you refrain from fast driving through the parking lot and never exceed 5 MPH on Preschool property.
Calendar
Inclement Weather
Should it become necessary to dismiss school due to inclement weather or other reasons, CBC will make every attempt to notify parents as soon as possible by means of announcements on the following local television stations:
Channel 11, WTVD and Channel 5, WRAL
Our inclement weather school dismissal will coincide with that of the Wake County Public Schools announced on local television stations.
Please also call the Preschool. We will update our voicemail with closing or delayed opening messages for the day. In addition, updates will be posted on our Preschool website and parents will be sent an email notification.
Photographs
Individual and group pictures will be taken in the fall of each year. Parents will be notified of the date and cost.
Photographs of the children participating in our program may be taken from time to time. Any such photography will be done under the supervision of the Director and staff. These photos may appear on the bulletin board, in newsletters, in brochures, on our website or in other publicity materials. Permission to use photos including your child or his/her work (artwork, crafts, projects, etc) must be first granted by the child’s parent via the Release form for Media Recording, which is included in the Parent Handbook.
Birthdays
Birthdays are an important time for your children. Please make arrangements with your child’s teacher prior to the special day and discuss any food allergies of other children. Due to state health codes, all food items must be made in a commercially licensed facility, such as a grocery store or bakery. The refreshments may be shared with the class during lunch. No invitations for parties outside of school will be distributed at school unless all classmates are invited.
Meals and Snacks
Since food and nutrition are important components of a child’s development, we emphasize good eating habits. Well-balanced mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks are served. Lunch and snack menus run on a four-week, rotating schedule and are posted in the front hall, in the kitchen, and in each classroom.
Lunch is ordered each morning at 9:00am based on the number of children that are in attendance that day. If your child is not here by 9:00 but will be here for lunch, you are expected to call the Preschool and ask us to order a plate for your child’s lunch. Please do not assume that we will order lunch for your child if you do not call. When children come after 9:00 and we are not aware they will be here for lunch, we run the risk of not having enough food for all the children.
We have planned snack and lunch times; therefore, extra food should not be brought from home. No child will be fed breakfast in the classroom under any circumstances. If your child needs to eat breakfast at the Preschool, you may eat with your child in the lunchroom before entering the classroom. According to State regulations, children who have food allergies or for other excusable reasons not eat the food provided by the Preschool, parents must provide a food of equal substitution. For example, if the child does not eat meat, a qualified meat substitute must be provided; if a child does not drink whole milk, a milk substitute must be provided-water is not an option for substitution. Extra portions of other foods may NOT be served to replace the item not eaten. All substitutes must meet the nutritional requirements of the original food provided. This rule applies to all components of a meal-meat, vegetable, fruit, bread, and milk. Copies of the four-week rotation are available from the Administration upon request and can be downloaded from our website.
Sick Policy
For the benefit of other children enrolled, please keep your child at home if he or she appears ill in the morning before you leave your home. Your child must be able to participate in daily activities in order to attend. If he exhibits any of the following symptoms, he is considered contagious and should not be at school: fever, vomiting, two or more episodes of diarrhea, red eyes or any unusual discharge from the eyes, and undetermined rashes.
Should a child become sick during the day, the parents will be notified immediately and must pick up the child immediately. The child will be made as comfortable as possible until a parent arrives. If the parent cannot be contacted within a reasonable amount of time, we will call the emergency contacts to pick up the child. The parent will receive a note stating the condition of your child and the day he/she was sent home. The date the child may return to the center will also be on the note.
A child who displays one or more of the following symptoms must be sent home. This is for the protection of every child in the Preschool. Please note that there are more exclusions symptoms than those listed below. You may see the Administrator for a complete list.
• Fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. (May return 24 hours after being fever-free with no medications.)
• Diarrhea-Two or more soft or watery stools within a 24-hour period. (May return after 24 hours of last diarrhea episode.)
• Vomiting on two or more occasions during the past 24 hours. (May return 24 hours after last vomiting.)
• Chicken Pox (May return after blisters dry.)
• Eye discharge or Pinkeye (May return 24 hours after treatment begins.)
• Lice or Nits (May return 24 hours after treatment begins and free of nits)
• Too tired or ill to participate in normal activities.
• Measles (May return 5 days after rash appears.)
• Ringworm (May return 24 hours after treatment begins.)
• Strep Throat (May return 24 hours after treatment begins.)
• Impetigo - May return after treated for 24 hours and covered when returning
Central Baptist Church Preschool reserves the right to require a note from the child’s pediatrician to clear the child before re-admittance after an illness. If a child develops a contagious disease, such as strep throat, pink eye or chicken pox, the Director should be notified immediately. The Director may notify other parents or post notifications for parents within the classroom. Confidentiality will be honored in all situations.
Major and Minor Accidents
Minor Accidents:
If a child gets a scrape, scratch, bite that does not break the skin, bruise, bloody nose or bump on the head, it will be considered a minor accident. An employee will complete an accident report for the parent to sign as described under Health and Safety Practices.
Major Accidents:
If a child has an accident that requires medical attention, the teacher or administrator will notify the parents and either the parent will take the child to the doctor or the Administrator will accompany the child to the nearest hospital. The Preschool will assume no financial responsibility for child’s treatment in the event the child must be transported to the hospital by a staff member. In an emergency situation, 911 will be called first, then the parent. All accidents that require medical attention must be recorded on an Incident Report and signed by the parent, the Administrator and a staff member. One copy of this report will remain in the Preschool and one copy will be forwarded to our state consultant.
Should your child have any allergies (food or otherwise) please notify your child’s teachers and the Director verbally and in writing immediately. A physician’s note is also very helpful.
Medications
With the exception of asthma maintenance/prevention medications and diaper cream CBC Preschool does not administer medications to children. No medications may be brought into the Preschool without the proper authorization. This includes Chap Stick, eye drops, lotions and acetaminophen. If you have any questions regarding this policy or if you believe your child has a special situation that needs to be addressed, please see the Administrator.
1. Consent:
Written parental consent is required to administer ANY medication.
2. Prescription Medication:
With the exception of asthma maintenance/prevention medications, prescription medications will only be dispensed by the Administration. The teaching staff will NOT be allowed to dispense such medications, and these medications may NOT be brought into the classroom. Prescription medication may ONLY be administered to the child whose name appears on the label. The prescription medication must be in its original container and be properly labeled with the child’s full name, the date the prescription was filled, the medication’s expiration date, and legible instructions for its administration, such as the manufacturer’s instructions, prescription label, or the child’s doctor’s written instructions.
3. Non-Prescription Medication:
The ONLY non-prescription medications we will administer is diaper cream. Proper written parent authorization is required before medication can be applied.
4. Unused Mediation:
Unused mediation must be picked up promptly after the time to be administered. Any medications left at the Preschool after that time will be properly discarded.
Discipline
In order to provide suitable educational opportunities for all children in the classroom and to
enhance the effective moral training of the children, Central Baptist Church Preschool adheres to the following philosophies:
The responsibility and authority to discipline comes from God (Ephesians 6:1-4). A
teacher stands in the parent’s stead. He or she has the same God-given authority as they;
however, corporal punishment will not be administered by Central Baptist Church Preschool faculty or staff.
Christian love should be at the heart of all discipline. One side of love is correction and
chastening, an essential part of the firmness of love. Firmness without love becomes harsh, whereas love without firmness is a sentimentality (Proverbs 3:11-12).
The school seeks to assist in developing the following characteristics in our children:
• Cheerful obedience to authority.
• Responsibility in doing assigned or expected tasks.
• Cooperation with others within and outside the classroom.
• Courtesy and respect for others.
• Cleanliness in person and property.
• Truthfulness and honesty in work and life.
• Respect for property that belongs to others.
• Punctuality in attendance and assignments.
• Morally good conduct in recreation, social relationships, and language
Any behavior or display of attitude in opposition to the basic principles and purpose of the school or which restrict the spiritual or academic atmosphere of the school is strongly discouraged. A complete list of specific offenses would be impractical in this handbook. The following is a general list of unacceptable behaviors:
• Showing disrespect to the teacher or another person.
• Lying, cheating, theft, profanity, or other immorality will not be tolerated.
• Fighting, excessive noise, disorderly conduct in restrooms, halls, lunchroom, playground, or classroom.
• Tampering with school or church equipment or destroying another individual’s property in any manner.
Parents will be financially responsible for all damages.
The State of North Carolina requires that a written copy of the Center’s discipline policy be given to each parent. A signed statement indicating receipt of, understanding of, and agreement with that policy is kept in the child’s folder. The Center’s policy reflects guidelines required by the State, as well as our philosophy of child guidance. The policy statement is outlined as the following:
Praise and positive reinforcement are effective methods of the behavior management of children. When children receive positive, non-violent, and understanding interactions from adults and others, they develop good self-concepts, problem solving abilities, and self-discipline. Based on this belief of how children learn and develop values, Central Baptist Church Preschool will provide the following discipline management policy:
We:
1. DO praise, reward and encourage the children.
2. DO reason with and set limits for the children.
3. DO model appropriate behavior for the children.
4. DO modify the classroom environment to attempt to prevent problems before they occur.
5. DO listen to children.
6. DO provide alternatives for inappropriate behavior to the children.
7. DO provide the children with natural and logical consequences of their behavior.
8. DO treat the children as people, and respect their needs, desires, and feelings.
9. DO ignore minor misbehaviors.
10. DO explain things to children on their levels.
11. DO use short supervised periods of “time-out”.
12. DO stay consistent in our behavior management program.
We:
1. DO NOT spank, shake, bite, pinch, push, pull, slap or otherwise physically punish the children.
2. DO NOT make fun of, yell at, threaten, make sarcastic remarks about, use profanity or otherwise verbally abuse the children.
3. DO NOT shame or punish the children when bathroom accidents occur.
4. DO NOT deny food or rest as punishment.
5. DO NOT relate discipline to eating, resting or sleeping.
6. DO NOT leave the children alone, unattended or without supervision.
7. DO NOT place the children in locked rooms, closets or boxes as punishment.
8. DO NOT allow discipline of children by children.
9. DO NOT criticize, make fun of or otherwise belittle children’s parents, families or ethnic groups.
Guidance Techniques and Procedures: We believe children learn best in a positive, structured environment. Boundaries are set in each classroom to help guide the children as choices are made based on individual interest. You will receive a copy of your classroom’s rules in your welcome packet; however, Central Baptist Church Preschool has four basic rules that every class incorporates:
• We are kind to our classmates, teachers and friends.
• We use our words to express ourselves.
• We use walking feet inside.
• We use soft voices inside.
In keeping with these rules, when a child is having a difficult time following directions or treating others or equipment with respect, developmentally appropriate guidance techniques is used.
These techniques are as follows:
• Positive reinforcement: The child will be encouraged when he/she is demonstrating acceptable behavior.
• Redirection: The child will be redirected to another activity and given an opportunity to try the original activity again at another time.
• “When…Then” Statements: A statement in which the child is encouraged to make a positive choice. Sample: “If you pick up the blocks, then you can go to the Dramatic Play area.”
• Time Out: The child is separated from the group for a child-regulated period of time. This period will not exceed one (1) minute per year of age. This technique is used only when a child is exhibiting temper-tantrum type behavior or is hurting self, others, or equipment. When the child shows that he/she is ready to demonstrate acceptable behavior, the child is encouraged to join the rest of the group and try again.
1. Working closely with parents and keeping them informed of any behavior changes or problems that are encountered is essential. When necessary, parents are called to come to the Center to discuss incidents with the child at the time of occurrence. Parent follow-up at home in shaping appropriate behavior is also essential.
2. Upon permission of the parent, when behavior disorders become apparent, we will partner with the parents and Project Enlightenment in receiving an evaluation so that appropriate help can be given .
3. Violent or physical TV cartoons or other influences lead to imitative behavior. Kicking, biting, bullying, or similar activities will not be permitted. When this type of behavior expresses itself as a pattern, it will be reported to the parents, and teachers will immediately enact disciplinary measures.
4. If a child continues an unacceptable behavior after the above measures have been taken, the Administrator and the parents will have a conference to discuss the possibility of suspension from school for one or two days, with no reduction in fees.
5. When behavior problems are irresolvable through the above efforts, the child will be permanently dismissed from the Preschool and may not re-apply or re-enroll.
6. These stringent measures are intended to assure the other parents of a safe environment for their children, free from persistent destructive and/or potentially harmful actions by other children in the Preschool.
7. The Preschool’s highest goal is to help children grow in a positive direction; develop the ability to function within the world and to continue in the development of self-discipline.
A. Biting: Biting is not uncommon among young children. During early childhood, children are sensory learners and often explore orally. In addition, immature language skills and imperfect impulse control can lead children to bite as a means of making their needs known. We do realize that biting is a concern to parents, and we strive to minimize biting at the Center. The following strategies help prevent, manage, and/or minimize biting incidents:
1. When a child bites out of frustration or during confrontation, he will be redirected to another activity and will be shown and alternate way to express his needs. We will encourage the child’s use of language in expressing wants and needs.
2. If a child tends to bite frequently, staff member will utilize a more intensive approach that involves careful observations of the child to determine precipitating events. Staff will also maintain a log to help track the behavior. A conference with the child’s parents may be arranged to discuss the child’s actions at home, search for outside resources, and discuss other positive opportunities and guidelines.
3. You will be notified if your child is bitten at the Center; however, to protect the privacy of the families in the Center, you will not be informed of the identity of the biter.
4. When a child bites another child and breaks the child’s skin, State regulations require the bitten child be taken to the doctor for immediate treatment, as human bites transfer more potentially harmful bacteria than do animal bites. If we must send a child to the doctor under these circumstances, we will also require the parents of the biting child to pick up their child immediately and remove them from the Center for the remainder of the school day. This policy is enforced for the protection of the other children in the Center, and is done to help the biting child understand the seriousness of his action.
5. For the safety of all the children, we reserve the right to permanently remove the biting child from the program if all attempts to stop the behavior fail
Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep Policy
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the unexpected death of a seemingly healthy baby for whom no cause of death can be determined based on an autopsy, and investigation of the place where the baby died, and a review of the baby’s clinical history.
Child care providers can maintain safer sleep environments for babies that help lower the chances of SIDS. North Carolina law requires that child care providers caring for children 12 months of age or younger implement a Safe Sleep Policy, share this information with parents and participate in training.
In the belief that proactive steps can be taken to lower the risks of SIDS in child care and that parents and child care providers can work together to keep babies safe while they sleep, Central Baptist Church Preschool will practice the following Safe Sleep Policy:
Safe Sleep Practices
1. All child care staff working in this room, or child care staff who may potentially work in this room, will receive training on our infant Safe Sleep Policy.
2. Infants will always be placed on their backs to sleep.
3. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies are placed on their backs to sleep, but when babies can easily turn over from their backs to their stomachs, they can be allowed to adopt whatever position they prefer for sleep.
4. We will follow this recommendation by the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, child care staff can further discuss with parents how to address circumstances when the baby turns onto his/her stomach or side.
5. Sleeping infants will be checked daily, every 15-20 minutes, by assigned staff. The sleep information will be recorded on a Sleep Chart. The Sleep Chart will be kept on file for one month after the reporting month. We will be especially alert to monitoring a sleeping infant during the first weeks the infant is in our care. We will check to see if the infant’s skin color is normal, watch the rise and fall of the chest to observe breathing and look to see if the infant is sleeping soundly. We will check the infant for signs of overheating, such as flushed skin color and elevated body temperature, by touch and restlessness.
6. Steps will be taken to keep babies from getting too warm or overheating by regulating the room temperature, avoiding excess bedding, and not over-dressing or over-wrapping the babies.
Safe Sleep Environment
1. Room temperature will be kept between 68-75 degrees Fahrenheit , and a thermometer will be kept in the infant room to ensure appropriate temperature.
2. Infants’ heads will not be covered with blankets or beddings. The parent may choose to provide a sleep sack instead of a blanket.
3. No loose bedding, pillows, bumper pads, etc. will be used in cribs. We will tuck any infant blankets in at the foot of the crib and along the sides of the crib mattress.
4. There will be no toys or stuffed animals in the crib when the infant is sleeping. Pacifiers will be allowed in infant’s crib while they sleep.
5. A safety-approved crib with a firm mattress and tight-fitting sheet will be used.
6. Only one infant will be in a crib at a time unless we are evacuating infants in an emergency.
7. No smoking is permitted in the infant room or anywhere else on the Center’s property.
8. All parents/guardians of infants cared for in the infant room will receive a written copy of our Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep Policy before enrollment.
9. To promote healthy development, awake infants will be given supervised “tummy time” for exercise and for play.
Abuse and Neglect
By law, we have the duty to report suspected child abuse and neglect. “Any person or situation which has cause to suspect that any juvenile is abused or neglected shall report the case of that juvenile to the director of the Department of Social Services in the county where the juvenile resides or is found.” (GENERAL STATUTE 7A-543)
This report can be made in person, by phone or in writing. The reporting law only requires that a person have a reasonable suspicion that a child is abused or neglected, not that the person is certain or actually knows that abuse or neglect exists.
In the case that abuse or neglect is suspected, the Administrator of the Preschool will be informed and Social Services will be contacted. The person reporting will keep documentation of any indicators of that abuse or neglect as record of his/her suspicion, until such time that Social Services calls for the record or notifies the Preschool that no abuse or neglect was found. The record will then go into the child’s file on site. A copy of the North Carolina Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting law is kept in the Administrator’s office.
Non-Discrimination Policy
Central Baptist Church Preschool admits children of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded to or made available to children at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarships and other school-administered programs.
Health and Safety Practices
Hand Washing:
Parents are required to wash their child’s hands upon entering the classroom each morning. Teachers will assist the children in washing their hands before and after snack, before and after lunch, after bathroom use, after nose blowing or wiping, and any other time hand washing is necessary. Teachers will follow the same hand-washing procedures for themselves and will also wash their hands after handling an ill child.
Toys and Equipment:
Toys, equipment and furniture are sterilized daily with a mild bleach solution. Heavy disinfecting cleanings are conducted weekly with a stronger bleach solution.
Fire/Tornado Drills:
Drills are conducted at least once a month and are recorded on forms provided by the Fire Department. Evacuation plans are posted next to exits.
Accidents and Injuries:
First Aid will be administered to a child needing care. Employees will wash the area with soap and water and put a bandage on the wound when necessary. Ice may also be used to treat wounds. No other treatment-including the administration of any medicine-is allowed by staff. Each injury is recorded on an accident report for the parent to sign. The Preschool keeps a copy of the signed report in the child’s file until the child leaves the Preschool, at which time the reports are destroyed. Serious accidents requiring medical attention are recorded on a State-supplied Incident Form and are reported to our licensing consultant. In such circumstances, the parent of the injured child is required to have the child seen by a doctor immediately.
First Aid Training:
All Administration and Lead Teachers are required to maintain current CPR and First Aid certificates.
Release of Children:
Children absolutely will NOT be released to anyone except those authorized on the enrollment form to pick up the child. Picture identification will be required of anyone unfamiliar to staff. In the event you wish another adult to pick up your child, we require that you notify us in advance, either in writing or over the phone. No one under the age of 18 will be allowed to pick up a child, regardless of the person’s relationship to the child. This includes siblings, other relatives, and babysitters.
Emergencies
Fire:
Preschool conforms to all fire regulations as designated by the State Fire Marshall. A fire evacuation plan is posted in each room. The 911 emergency number, the numbers of the local police and fire departments, and the exact address of the building are posted by each telephone.
Fire drills are held monthly. The fire alarm system, emergency power pack lights, and fire extinguishers are checked yearly for proper function. All staff member s are taught how to use fire extinguishers. Fire training is held at the beginning of each school year, with new information presented as needed. All staff is trained in fire procedures as part of their orientation.
In the event of fire, the building will be evacuated immediately. The staff member in charge will phone the fire department. A designated staff member may attempt to extiquish the fire while the building is being evacuated. All other staff members are to remain with the children and see them safely to the designated emergency shelter.
Tornado:
A written tornado shelter plan is posted in each classroom. Tornado drills are held monthly from April through September. A battery operated radio and extra batteries are easily accessible and kept in good repair. In case of an emergency, staff will listen to the Weather Alert Radio in the office for tornado information. WRAL-TV 5’s Desktop Weather is also in use at all times for the monitoring of dangerous weather conditions. In the event of a tornado warning, the children will be evacuated to the designated areas and remain there until the warning is lifted.
Inclement Weather:
In the event of inclement weather, the staff will house the children at the facility until the parents or guardians can pick them up. For the benefit of all children and staff, parents are encouraged to pick up their children as soon as possible in such situations.
Grievance Procedure for Parents
We strongly encourage open communication between parents, staff and Administration at all times. If you should ever have a question, concern or complaint regarding anything related to the Preschool, please do not hesitate to contact the appropriate source. Any classroom issues should first be discussed with the classroom’s Lead Teacher. If the issue is not resolved at this level or if you are uncomfortable speaking with the Lead Teacher, the issue should then be brought to the Administration. If a satisfactory result is not achieved with the Administration, you may contact a member of the Board of Directors.
Anti-Harassment Statement
CBC Preschool will not tolerate the harassment of any personnel, child, family member or any other persons by any individual. Any personnel found guilty of harassment will be subject to suspension without pay and possible termination based on the judgment of the Administration. Children and families will be disenrolled from the program. Other persons will be removed from the premises immediately, and will be permanently banned from the Preschool.
Standard Code of Conduct
Upon enrollment, parents must read and sign the Statement of Responsibility located in this Parent Handbook. This form states that you have read and are in agreement with the policies and procedures of Central Baptist Full Day Preschool.
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