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Keepers of the Circle Parent Handbook
Program Statement
Keepers of the Circle Aboriginal Family Learning Centre Child Care Facility offers a strong and vibrant environment for Native families and the community. They do this by supporting the balance in each other and the world around them, according to the teachings of the medicine wheel and the document “How does Learning Happen? Keepers of the Circle Aboriginal Family Learning Centre Child Care Facility is dedicated to the provision of safe, well-managed childcare services for children, provided by competent, trained staff, and visiting elders. Our blended curriculum will enhance a positive sense of identity and understanding of the Indigenous Heritage. Indigenous programming will include and provide for the physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental nourishment of the children. Their spiritual growth, self-esteem, personal validation and identity will be met at our centre. We will view the child as being competent, capable, curious and rich in potential through our childcare program.
GOALS
Our goals in meeting and supporting the childcare needs of all families are:
• Recognizing the needs of all children to receive culturally and community
relevant teachings and care
• Develop programs that are family centred; educational and community based;
culturally appropriate and sufficiently funded to meet the need.
• Provide ongoing and continuous care for the children in our care.
• Provide parent involvement through parent advisory committee, parent groups,
activity nights, healthy activities and volunteerism.
• Provide families with cultural learning opportunities which will align with the
document “How Does Learning Happen?”
“Culture is learned through language, ceremonies, gatherings, stories, music, games, arts and crafts, as well as land-based experiences. It is important for service providers and the community to have a good understanding of their own cultural beliefs and to respect the diversity of cultural beliefs of the children and families they are working with.
Elders and other resource people are considered the most important means of cultural knowledge to be transmitted to children and families. “(Journey Together document)
HDLH components: BELONGING, WELL-BEING, ENGAGEMENT, EXPRESSION
Children are competent, capable, curious and rich in potential. Children are the central piece to a family and community, and they hold the future in their minds, bodies, and spirits. We embrace each child’s spirit, and recognize they bring their own individual gifts. Families/elders include individuals who are competent, capable, curious and rich
in experience and knowledge. Families/Elders nurture and teach children to become who they are meant to be. We embrace each family and all the elders and support them in their role as they are the most important people in a child’s life. Educators are competent, capable, curious and rich in potential. Educators bring a wide variety of professional experiences and life experiences as well. Both will enrich the life and experiences of children and families in their care. What we do today will stay with them in the future and enhance for a better tomorrow. BELONGING GOAL: When working with families, it is important that we can understand Indigenous history, culture, and social context. All these factors impact a child’s sense of belonging and their sense of identity. Parents/guardians feel a sense of belonging when they are connected to one another. In our program we will cultivate authentic, caring relationships and connections to create a sense of belonging among and between children, parents, elders, staff and the community. We will do this by: →Promoting and celebrating Indigenous culture and language → Encouraging children and their families to be proud of their culture. → Our learning environments will provide safe spaces for cultural teachings and elders to visit. → We as staff will engage elders and community members to teach and show traditional skills to not only the children but also to the families. → Incorporating traditional play items, and natural learning environment into the classroom. →We model the 7 grandfather teachings to the children and the families.
→We will model respect to our visiting elders. → We share culture and language resources with the parents. → Support positive and responsive interactions among the children, families, elders, educators and staff. → Build trusting relationships with families by creating welcoming classroom environments. → Welcoming all children regardless of their cultural diversity WELL-BEING GOAL: Every child is able to develop a sense of self, health, and well-being. The family also
needs to have a sense of health and well-being in order to care for their children. It is important culturally that the whole family is involved in the well-being of the child. Family, community, and child will have access to health and wellness services. We will nurture child’s healthy development and support their growing sense of self. Recognize that family health and wellness impacts the health and well-being of the child. We will do this by: →Promote health, safety and well-being of the child. → We develop and follow policies and procedure to ensure health and safety of everyone. →We will work with the local Health unit in order to serve traditional foods ex: moose, fish →We will pay attention to the physical and emotional states of each child and their family and respond in a warm and sensitive manner. --> incorporate indoor and outdoor play as well as active play, rest, and quite time into our day but also give consideration to the individual needs of the children and their families. → We will promote and encourage children to use natural materials to extend the knowledge of culture. → We will plan indoor and outdoor traditional ceremonies or feast for the children and their families to participate in to extend their cultural knowledge. → We will provide time of rest and quiet play and activities during indoor and outdoor play. → Support families and staff in accessing health and wellness support services → We will access children with Nippissing screening tool. →We will work together with families and other professionals to support children’s learning and developmental needs → We will connect families and staff to other community resources for referrals. → Foster and develop self-care and self-regulation for children and their families. →Promote self-regulation through guidance of the staff.
→Give opportunities to practise independence →Plan cultural programs and activities with the whole family involving also the elders. → We will model healthy lifestyles ENGAGMENT GOAL: In our program we will provide environments and cultural experiences that will engage the whole family in active, creative and meaningful exploration. During this we will encourage families to participate in their child’s learning and play. To help us out, we
will reach out to the community partners to engage them into our cultural program to enrich meaningful experiences. We will do this by: → In our routine, there will be uninterrupted play time, where the children will be able to engage in many different classroom activities and be able to learn through their play →our curriculum will be following the medicine wheel, each part of the child’s spiritual, mental, physical and emotional needs will be met through our programming. →We foster the children’s interests and their connections to the environment → We take an active role in play with the children →We recognize that children learn from observation and through experiences. →We involve local community partners in our programs and in supporting children, families and staff. → We work with families, elders and community partners to enhance our program →We promote an open-door policy to our families and guests →We have and continue to build partnerships with a wide variety of service agencies in our community. →We integrate children in the preschool program to school by having school visits to the school that the child is attending. → We encourage an open communication with all our families, each child has a communication book that the parent can look at daily. →We encourage family involvement in all of our activities and ceremonies. →We foster a strong sense of belonging and connection to the community. →We foster a strong sense of connection to the natural environment, including the outdoors to inside the classroom. Ex. Plants, animals, furs, trees -> We provide a minimum of an hour visit for each child upon starting childcare, so that the child and family are families with the classroom. →We engage in ongoing communication with the families → We document the child’s progress within the classrooms for the families to see and ask questions. → We provide professional development for all our staff on a regular basis. →We support the involvements of students in our programs, our role is as mentors.
EXPRESSION GOAL: To foster communication in all forms within the family, children and the staff. It is very important that children are able to express themselves freely without discrimination. We will have an open communication with the whole family, which also includes the elders. We are going to do this by: →We will practise active listening with the family.
→ We will communicate with families using a wide variety of communications, such as monthly newsletters, emails, in person and also communication books. → We will encourage families to share their feedback and viewpoints to help support the children in our care. → We will include an elder communication when then family needs it. → We will practise and learn the language to the best of our ability and incorporate it into the classroom in steps. → We support children’s different cues and ways of communicating. → We foster children’s creativity in the classroom and outdoors. → We provide space, materials and encourage children to expression through creative experiences. → We advocate for the rights of the indigenous children and their families. → We all work together to set goals and make plans for the future → We discuss programs and issues at team meetings and make decisions as a team and propose solutions as a group. → We show respect to other opinions and perspectives. → We show respect for others work duties and responsibilities in our working environment → We encourage staff and families to problem solve together for the best interest of their child → We include elders in discussions that we might need assistance with. → We teach according to the 7 grandfather teachings, and we encourage children and families to respect these teachings → We all work together to one common goal, in the best interest of the child.
THIS IS A LIVING DOCUMENT
Parent Fees
Hourly rate- Please note that
an hourly fee applies to
parents picking their children
up from the full day program
after the centre has closed.
$5.00 for the first 15 minutes
$1.00 for every minute after.
*Shepherdson Drive site offers care for children 18 mths to 12years. This site offers extended hours, 6am to 9pm. *Both the Scott Street location and the Kirkland Lake locations operate from 7am to 6pm.
Ratio of employees to children at our Scott Street and Kirkland Lake locations. Infant Younger than 18 months 3:1 (1 Educator for every 3 children) Toddler 18 months or older but younger than 30 months 1:5 (1 educator for every 5 children. Preschool 30 months or older but younger than 6 years 1:8 (1 educator for every 8 children) Kindergarten 44 months or older but younger than 7 years 1:13 ( 1 educator for every 13 children) Primary/Junior School Age 68 months or older but younger than 13 years 1:15 (1 educator for every 15 children)
Junior School Age 9 years or older but younger than 13 years 1:20 (1 educator for every 20 children) *Our Shepherdson Drive location follows a family grouping. Family age groups allow the placement of children of different ages in the same group in the same play activity room. The following staff to children ratio are as follows for family grouping: 12 months or older but younger than 24 months 1 to 4 (1 educator for every 4 children). 24 months or older but younger than 13 years 1 to 8 (1 educator for every 8 children).
Admission and Discharge Admission 1. The chlld must fall underthe age category. Keepers of the Circle Aboriginal Famlly Learning celtre child care's services chlldren ages 2 week to 12 years of age. 2. Keepers of the Circle Aborlginal Famlly Leaming Centre Chlld Care ls licensed to cover 66 children. Fulltime children will fill spaces first, than parttlme children. A walilng tist will be established once allspaces have been fllted. 3. All admlttance and medical forms must be filled out and all consent forms must be
signed by a parent/guardian before a chlld can be admitted.
4. Payment or a holdlng fee must be recelved according to the fee schedule and payment arrangement. Timely payments will retain a chlld’s space.
Discharge A child may be discharged from the Keepers of the Circle Family Learning Centre for the following reasons. 1. Withdrawal by a parent provided that the parent has given two weeks notice. 2. Non-receipt of fees or non-adherence to payment arrangements. Thls includes
excessive or contlnued lateness of payment. The parent/guardian will be glven three chances to pay their fees. They will receive a verbal notice, a written notice, and then a flnal written notlce whcih wlll clearly deflne why the child is belng discharged, the date of the chlld's dlscharge and the outstanding monies owed. At this time the
Supervisor or Executlve Director has the right to grant a repayrnent schedule. Parents/Guardians will have to clear any past debts wlth the "Keepers of the Circle” Family Leaming Centre Chlld Care before thelr child (ren) can be re- admitted
3. Excesslve unexplalned absences of a chlld. This could result in loss of subsidy and/or the child’s discharge from the program.
4. Failure to fill in monthly contracts (calendars) could result in loss of childcare space for the days required. Minimum of 2 weeks is required, ful month is recommended.
5. Serious behavioural problems that have not been adequately resolved by following
the Behaviour Management policy, the supervisor or designate has the right to request that the child be referred to Community Living Resource Program for Behaviour Support, and social and emotional development.
Hours of Operation Keepers of the Circle is opened at 7:00 am and closed at 6pm. Sleep time for all chlldren (excluding Infants) is 12:00pm to 2:00pm. There will be no pick ups and drop offs between 11:00am and 2:00pm. Exceptions include appointments which have been discussed with educators. 2 weeks notice is required to make changes to the monthly contracts. ALL OTHER ABSENCES WILL BE CHARGED TO THE PARENT.
Holidays the Centre is Closed
NewYear’s Day
Family Day
Good Frlday
Victoria Day
Canada Day
Civic Monday
Labour Day
Thankgiving
Two weeks off for Chrlstmas (unless there is a need for the child care to be open)
Vacation-
Parents are responsible for bringing all items their child(ren) need for the day such as: -Diapers
-Indoor shoes
-Change ofclothes
-Proper outer dress wear (hat, mitts, coat, boots, ski pants, scarf) We go outside in all types of weather please ensure your child has what he/she needs to play comfortably outside.
General Guidelines
1.Don't hesitate to tell the teacher anything you think she/he should know. (Example-your child slept poorly. You have given him/her medication etc.)
2.Bring your child directly to the teacher. He/she cannot be responsible for a child he/she does not know arrived.
3.When you pick up your child, be sure he/she says good bye to the teacher so that he/she knows the child has been plcked up.
4.Please sign in and out your child daily. These records are kept on file. lf someone else is picking up your child, they will need identification; as well you will need to phone prior to this person picking up your child.
5.When picking up your child, please allow him/her a few minutes to tidy up whatever he/she was using.
6.lf your child has an accident/incident report, please allow time to listen to the explanation,
and sign the report.
7. Please phone in when your child will not be attending chlld care. lf your child has an illness,
please inform the person you are speaklng with of the illness.
. lf your child's teacher has lnforrned you of issues that have arose within the child care
regardlng behaviour, please remember that your chlld has already been spoken to about the behavlour.
9. lf your child insists on bringing a toy from home, it must be labelled wlth your child's name on it. Toys are allowed in the child care centre; however, if the toy causes a conflict, lt will be placed in the child's cubby and not be allowed out until home time. 10. Please bring in a blanket or a stuffed animal for your child durlng sleep time. A comfort
from home is the best thing to help your chlld relax and go to sleep.
Staff The staff consist of a Supervisor, qualified staff, assistants and a cook. All qualified Early Childhood Educators will be registered with the College of Early Childhood Educators in order to be recognlzed as an Early Childhood Educator. All staff are certified in First Aid/CPR includlng child and infant. They provide a warm and relaxed atmosphere for learnlng. Through knowledge and awareness of children's needs, they provide a culturally planned program of indoor and outdoor actlvities designed so that each child achieves success. The staff rotate as needed, so each has the opportunity to share their individual skills wlth each age group. We offer lnfant, toddler, preschool, and school age programs. The staff has varlous educational backgrounds to provlde the chlldren wlth a wlde spectrum of learning. The staffs are fully committed to learning all aspects of the aboriglnal culture, and other cultures' to help the children realize that today's society is a multicultural society. On occasion we do have student/volunteers. At no time are they left alone with the
children and are not included in the staff ratlos.
Parent Concerns
Parents/guardians are encouraged to take an active role in our child care centre and regularly discuss what their child(ren) are experiencing within our program. As supported by our program statement, we support positive and responsive interactions among the children, parents/guardlans, child care providers and staff. We foster the engagement of and ongolng communication with parents/guardians about the program and their children. Our staff are available to engage parents/guardians in conversations and support a positive experience during every interaction. All issues and concerns raised by parents/guardians are taken seriously by the Supervisor and will be addressed. Every effort will be made to address and resolve issues and concerns to the satisfactlon of all parties and as quickly as possible.
Issues/concerns may be brought forward verbally or in writing. Responses and outcomes will be provided verbally, or in writing upon request. The level of detail provided to the
parent/guardlan wlll respect and maintain the confidentaility of all parties involved. An initial response to an issue or concern will be provided to parents/guardians within 5 business day(s). The person who raised the issue/concern will be kept informed throughout the resolution process.
lnvestigations of issues and concerns will be fair, impartial and respectful to all parties involved.
Parents/guardians are encouraged to take an active role in our childcare centre and regularly discuss what their child(ren) are experiencing with our program. As supported by our program statement, we support positive and responsive interactions among the children, parents/guardians, childcare providers and staff, and foster the engagement of and ongoing communication with parents/guardians about the program and their children. Our staff are available to engage parents/guardians in conversations and support a positive experience during every interaction.
All issues and concerns raised by parents/guardians are taken seriously by Keepers of the Circle staff and management and will be addressed. Every effort will be made to address and resolve issues and concerns to the satisfaction of all parties and as quickly as possible.
Issues/concerns may be brought forward verbally or in writing. Responses and outcomes will be provided verbally, or in writing upon request. The level of detail provided to the parent/guardian will respect and maintain the confidentiality of all parties involved.
An initial response to an issue or concern will be provided to parents/guardians within five business day(s). The person who raised the issue/concern will be kept informed throughout the resolution process.
Investigations of issues and concerns will be fair, impartial and respectful to parties involved.
Confidentiality
Every issue and concern will be treated confidentially and every effort will be made to protect the privacy of parents/guardians, children, staff, students and volunteers, except when information must be disclosed for legal reasons (e.g. to the Ministry of Education, College of Early Childhood Educators, law enforcement authorities or NEOFACS). Conduct
Our centre maintains high standards for positive interaction, communication and role-modelling for children. Harassment and discrimination will therefore not be tolerated from any party.
If at any point a parent/guardian, provider or staff feels uncomfortable, threatened, abused or belittled, they may immediately end the conversation and report the situation to the supervisor and/or licensee.
Concerns about the Suspected Abuse or Neglect of a child
Everyone, including members of the public and professionals who work closely with children, is required by law to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect.
If a parent/guardian expresses concerns that a child is being abused or neglected, the parent will be advised to contact the local Children’s Aid Society (NEOFACS) directly.
Persons who become aware of such concerns are also responsible for reporting this information to CAS as per the “Duty to Report” requirement under the Child and Family Services Act.
For more information, visit http://www.children.gov.on.ca/htdocs/English/childrensaid/reportingabuse/index.aspx
Procedures Nature of Issue
or Concern Steps for Parent and/or
Guardian to Report Issue/Concern:
Steps for Staff and/or Licensee in responding to issue/concern:
Program Room-Related
E.g.: schedule, sleep arrangements, toilet training, indoor/outdoor program activities, feeding arrangements, etc.
Raise the issue or concern to - the classroom staff directly or - the supervisor or licensee.
- Address the issue/concern at the time it is raised
or - arrange for a meeting with the
parent/guardian within 5 business days.
Document the issues/concerns in detail. Documentation should include: - the date and time the issue/concern
was received. - the name of the person who received
the issue/concern. - the name of the person reporting the
issue/concern. - the details of the issue/concern; and - any steps taken to resolve the
issue/concern and/or information given to the parent/guardian regarding next steps or referral.
Provide contact information for the appropriate person if the person being notified is unable to address the matter.
Ensure the investigation of the issue/concern is initiated by the appropriate party within [insert number] business days or as soon as reasonably possible thereafter. Document reasons for delays in writing.
Provide a resolution or outcome to the parent(s)/guardian(s) who raised the issue/concern.
General, Centre- or Operations-Related
E.g.: childcare fees, hours of operation, staffing, waiting lists, menus, etc.
Raise the issue or concern to - the supervisor or licensee.
Staff-, Duty parent-, Supervisor-, and/or Licensee-Related
Raise the issue or concern to - the individual directly or - the supervisor or licensee. All issues or concerns about the conduct of staff, duty parents, etc. that puts a child’s health, safety and well-being at risk should be reported to the supervisor as soon as parents/guardians become aware of the situation.
Student- / Volunteer-Related
Raise the issue or concern to - the staff responsible for
supervising the volunteer or student
or - the supervisor and/or licensee. - All issues or concerns about the conduct of students and/or volunteers that puts a child’s health, safety and well-being at risk should be reported to the supervisor as soon as
Nature of Issue or Concern
Steps for Parent and/or Guardian to Report
Issue/Concern:
Steps for Staff and/or Licensee in responding to issue/concern:
parents/guardians become aware of the situation.
Escalation of Issues or Concerns: Where parents/guardians are not satisfied with the response or outcome of an issue or concern, they may escalate the issue or concern verbally or in writing to the Executive Director. Issues/concerns related to compliance with requirements set out in the Child Care and Early Years Act., 2014 and Ontario Regulation 137/15 should be reported to the Ministry of Education’s Child Care Quality Assurance and Licensing Branch. Issues/concerns may also be reported to other relevant regulatory bodies (e.g. local public health department, police department, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Labour, fire department, College of Early Childhood Educators, Ontario College of Teachers, College of Social Workers etc.) where appropriate.
Contacts:
Early Learning Childcare Manager/Home Childcare Supervisor-Lisa Sloan (New Liskeard Site) [email protected] 1-855-647-7874 Ext.4080
Hunter Lemay Site Supervisor (Kirkland Lake Site) [email protected]
1-855-647-7874 Ext.2200
Ashlyn Ellerton Site Supervisor (Scott Street Site NL) [email protected]
1-855-647-7874Larissa Aitchison Site Supervisor (Shepherdson Rd. New Liskeard Site)
1-855-647-7874 Ext.3140
Executive Director: Arlene Hache (W) 1-855-647-7874
FIRE DEPARTMENT 911
POLICE 911
AMBULANCE 911
POSION CONTROL 1-800-268-9017
TEMISKAMING SHORES HOSPITAL 705-647-8121
KIRKLAND LAKE HOSPITAL 705-567-5215
Ministry of Education, Licensed Child Care Help Desk: 1-877-510-5333 or [email protected]
Communication Keepers of the Circle will communicate on a daily basis with the parent/caregivers through a communication book. The communication book wlll update the parent/careglver on their child's day, and any changes in the child's behavior or health. Providing the center with your email will also open up communication.
Parents’caregivers are encouraged to participate in the program and visit your child in your free time. All of the staff shall develop and maintain good relationships with the parents of the children. lf there are any concerns or questions please feel free to approach any staff at any tirne. For parents to be more aware of what is happening in the center, all serious occurrences are posted for the parents to view for 10 days from the date of the incident. Wait Lists A waitlist will be formed when the center reaches full capacity of enrollment. Children will be accepted lnto the program on a first come first served basis when spots become available in the required age group. Priority is established by the date of the application, however siblings of children currently enrolled in our program will be given priority status. ln order to have your child added to our waitlng llst, parent and child must first have a tour of the center to ensure the center is a 'good fit' for the family. There is no fee to have your chlld placed on our waiting list.
Emergency Management Keepers of the Circle have an Emergency Management Plan. Emergencies can consist of Lockdown, Hold & Secure, Bomb Threats, Disaster needing evacuatlon, Environmental Threats and Natural Disasters. ln the case of an Emergency, parents will be contacted by phone immediately. Please ensure all phone numbers are kept up to date.
Special Events Throughout the year, the staff will take the children out of the centre on field trips. The parent(s) will be lnformed in advance of all information concerning the outing. The parent(s) must complete a written authorizatlon form. lf there ls a cost included, the parent(s) will be asked to contribute. Parents are encouraged to joln thelr child (ren) on the outing or become involved in the child care centre. Child care services wlll be offered for chlldren who cannot participate in the outings when possible.
Activities There is a daily time table, which is followed througout the day, as we feel that routine for
children helps them cope with new situations that arise. However, this routlne may vary from tirne to time to fit the changlng needs of children. Children, who receive 6 hours or more of care in the centre, must spend at least 2 hours each day outside, weather permiting.
Through play, children will learn to explore and discover the culture and world around them.
Structured activities such as snack, lunch, art, circle and cultural teachings provide the
consistency durlng the day that the children need.
Certain activities such as finger play, water play, and play dough, which are difficult to provide at home, become fascinating opportunities for enrlched learnlng.
Music and rhythm, which are part of the program, offer children an avenue for self-expression and encourage the development of music and language skllls.
Cultural activities will be planned to help the children become rnore diverse in their own life and famlly unit. We will attempt to enhance the cultural backgrounds and language of the
children enrolled in the prograrn by lnvolvlng community elders.
Emphasis will be placed on cultural and tradltional teaching of the First Nation, Metis and Inuit.
Dancing and drumming will be incorporated in the physical activity program.
Science activities, filed trips, storytelling, book, CD,s and tapes extend opportunities of
learning. Outdoor play is an important part of the day for the children. Climbers, slides, bikes, wagons,scooters, balls, sand and water toys are all part of our outdoor play.
A variety of activities keep the children busy, active, challenged and happy.
Nutrition Good nutrition is important for every child. All children attending Keepers of the Circle Ab Family Learning centre wlll receive lunch and two nutritionally balanced snacks. Menus are planned in accordance with the Canadlan Food Guide and posted in all rooms for parent/caregivers to view. Parents are asked not to send food or candies to the program, except if the child is on a special diet and that food is not easy to obtainable, or during special occasions.
We are a PEANUT FREE centre.
Sleep Time Under the requirements of the Child Care and Early Years Act, toddlers and children up to 5 years of age must have a rest period up to two (2) hours a day. Children that do sleep may engage in qulet activities. Children less than 12 months must be placed on their backs to sleep in a manner consistent with recommendations set out in the Joint Statement of Safe Sleep, unless a child's physician states otherwise in wrltlng. Staff will record and document direct visual checks for each infant every 15 minutes.
Elder Involvement and Cultural Teachings Keepers of the Circle programming is intended to address the holistic development of children. As such, Elders play a vital role in our program. Elders will be involved as much as possible in the classroom. They will facilitate teachings, opening prayers and smudging. They will provide guidance for the children and staff. They will do this with songs and stories through drummlng and dancing. We feel that culture and language is critlcally important. We will incorporate language and culture by teaching the language, promoting drummlng, singing, arts & crafts, storytelllng and encounging children and their families to participate in community celebrations and gatherlngs. We will also incorporate visits to the daycare by community elders.
Smudging Smudging is the common name given for a powerful cleansing technique from the Anishnabe people. The burning of different medicines (herbs) is to purify one's self, emotionally mentally, physlcally and spiritually. It is a way to cleanse a person, place or an object of negative energies or influences. It is an effective method for energizing a person, place or object. The four sacred medicines are used in everyday life and in ceremonles. All of them can be used to smudge with, though sage, cedar and sweet grass also have many other uses. We create a smoke then take the smoke in one's hands and rub or brush it over the body. lt can look dlfferent depending on the user and the reason it is being used. Many First Nation people choose to smudge for a variety of reasons including: prayer, starting out the day, giving thanks, clearing your mlnd, cleansing physically and spiritually, asking for guidance or any reason the individual chooses. Elders say that the spirits like the aroma produced when we burn tobacco and the other sacred medicines. Smudging will be part of our daily routine. Smudging and pnyer will happen at Keepers of the circle each morning. Children, families and staff will have the choice to participate.
Behaviour Management The following methods of behaviour management are practiced within the "Keepers of the Circle" Aboriginal Family Learning Centre: General discipline practices for staff will be
a. Timely
b.Consistent
c. Predictable
Physical contact is always
a. Respectful
b. Gentle
c. Safe
d. Used only when required
Position and body language is:
a. At the child's level
b. Conductive to encourage use of direct eye contact
c. Enables staff to reward good behaviour
d. Allows staff to accurately interpret response
Words used when disciplining are:
a. Age appropriate
b. Positive
c. ln native language, if appropriate
lnstructions being provided to chlldren should be:
a. Clear
b. Concise
c. Positive
d. Directly related to the behaviour
The voice including the tone and pitch used with children needs to be:
a. Positive
b. Courteous
c. Respectful
Disciplinary measures can include:
a. Use of redirection
b. Time In (according to of the child's age) We do not use time out at our centre. c. Removal from the room or situation to allow the child to calm down d. Exclusion from an outing/activity The following are prohibited practices with in the centre: 1) Corporal punishment of a child; 2) Physical restraint of a child, such as confining the child to a highchair, care seat, stroller or other devices for the purpose of discipline or in lieu of supervision, unless the physical restraint is for the purpose of preventing a child from hurting himself/herself or someone else, and is used only as a last resort and only until the risk of injury in no longer imminent. 3) Locking the exits of the childcare centre for the purpose of confining a child, or confining the child in an area without supervision, unless such confinement occurs during an emergency and is required as for of the emergency management poilcies and procedures. 4) Use of harsh or degrading measures or threats or use of derogatory language directed at or used ln the presence of a child that would humiliate, shame or frighten a chlld or undermlne his or her self-respect, dignity or self-worth. 5) Depriving the child of basic needs including food, drink, shelter, sleep, toilet use, clothing or bedding. 6) lnflicting any bodily harm on children including making children eat or drink against their will. Safe Classroom Policy
The staff at Keepers of the Circle provide a warm and relaxed atmosphere for learning. Each child is viewed as an individual and respected as his/her own person. Within this environment every child is to feel safe and secure. Actions which place the safety of students or staff at risk will have consequences. Such actions may include; throwing objects, biting scratching, kicking or self-abusive behaviours that are serious enough that the environment is no longer perceived as safe or secure. The child's age and developmental level will be considered and the Behaviour Management policy will be followed. A child that is using inappropriate words or which are violent or threatening (to themselves or others) in nature and imply that the safety of children or staff are at risk will be dealt with immediately. The staff will work with the child to understand the reason for the inappropriate language and try to extinguish it. Depending on the seriousness of the threat other agency may need to be involved.
PROCEDURES
Upon the first instance, the parents/caregiver will be notified. Working with the educators, an action plan will be created to help the child find more effective methods to
deal with difficult situations. After the plan has been put into action, any instance of significantly dangerous behaviour will result in the child being sent home for the remainder of the day and the action plan will be revised. Communication between parent/caregiver, supervisor and educators will be continual to help support the child and family. If the action plan is not showing to be successful at producing significant positive change a second meeting will occur between parent/caregiver, supervisor and educator to discuss other community services that may be of assistant (ex. Community Living Behaviour Support, CMHA etc.)When a child feels safe and secure they are comfortable enough to express themselves which fosters the child's well-being and sense of belonging which encourages engagement and builds strong positive relationships.
Administration of Medication
1) Parent or Care giver must fill out form upon drop off. The person must verbally inform the Supervisor or designate and classroom staff that their child ls to be given medication. The form will indlcate the time, amount, duration of medication, and procedure. 2) The medication packaging must clearly have the child's name and a written procedure as dlrected by a registered nurse or licensed physician for the administration of any drug or medication.
3) Medicine cannot be administred without a form stating specific written instructions and a written schedule. 4) Only a parent or a care giver of a child can provide medicine which must be in the original container, cearly labelled with thelr child's name, date and proper storage
instructlons. Tylenol It is the poilcy of the "Keepers of the Circle" Aboriginal Family Learning Centre that the use of over the counter children's medicatlon such as (Children's Tylenol, Tempera, etc.....) must first be approved by the Supervisor or designate. The parent or care giver will be contacted before the administration of the over the counter medicatlon. The dosage of the medication will be as per the directions on the package. The medication must be in the original packaging with the child's name clearly marked on the bottle and on the box. A medication form will be filled out prior to receiving the package. There must be a parent or a care givers signature and a signature of the Supervisor or designate on the form to administer the over the counter medication. The medication can only be given when the child is ill, there is no 'as needed'. The medicatlon will be sent home if it is no longer needed and when the medication expires. There will be no dlsposal of any medicatlon on Child Care premises.
Parent Advisory Committee The Keepers of the Circle Aboriginal Famliy Learning Centre Child Care Facility encourages parent participation
in all aspects of the Child Care Centre.
lf you are interested in participating in this
- Plus More
I, ________________________________, herby submit my name to the Parent Advisory Committee. I am willing to take some time after my workday to help better the childcare service
Parent Signature_________________________ Date_______________________
Keepers of the Circle Family Registration Form
Name of Child Care Centre: Keepers of the Circle
Location: Scott Street New Liskeard Site
Shepherdson Rd New Liskeard Site
Kirkland Lake Site
For Office Use Only
Date of Admission:
Date of Discharge:
Type of Child Care Required: □ Full-time □ Part-time □ Occasional □ Other:
Age Group Placement at Time of Enrolment:
□ Infant □Toddler □ Preschool □ Kindergarten □Primary/Jr. School Age □Jr. School Age
Hours of Care:
MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT SUN
Child Information
Full Legal Name: Preferred Name:
Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy) Age (years, months):
Home Address(es): *Please include P.O.Box if applicable
Language(s) Spoken at Home:
Other children in the family enrolled in the centre (list names, if applicable):
Parent Information
Full Legal Name: Preferred Name:
Relationship to Child: Primary Phone Number:
Alternate Phone Number: Email address(es):
Home Address:
□ Same as Child
Full Legal Name: Preferred Name:
Relationship to Child: Primary Phone Number:
Alternate Phone Number: Email address(es):
Home Address:
□ Same as Child
Custody Arrangements (if applicable)
Are there custody arrangements pertaining to legal right of access to your child? YES NO
If YES, please provide a copy of the appropriate legal documentation (e.g., court order).
Name(s) of custodial parent(s): ______________________________________________________
Name(s) of individuals prohibited from accessing/picking up your child: _____________________
Emergency Contacts
In the event of an emergency, if a parent cannot be reached, the following individual(s) may be contacted. Please list in
order of preference.
Emergency Contact #1 Emergency Contact #2 Emergency Contact #3
Full Legal Name:
Preferred Name:
Relationship to Child:
Primary Phone Number:
Full Legal Name:
Preferred Name:
Relationship to Child:
Primary Phone Number:
Full Legal Name:
Preferred Name:
Relationship to Child:
Primary Phone Number:
Emergency Contact #1 Emergency Contact #2 Emergency Contact #3
Alternate Phone Number:
Home Address:
□ Authorized to pick-up child
Alternate Phone Number:
Home Address:
□ Authorized to pick-up child
Alternate Phone Number:
Home Address:
□ Authorized to pick-up child
Pick-Up Authorization The following additional individuals are authorized to pick up my child (Photo ID will be required to confirm identify before the child will be released):
Full Legal Name Relationship to Child Primary Phone
Additional Emergency Information
Please provide any special medical or additional information about your child that could be helpful in an emergency (e.g.,
known medical conditions, skin conditions, vision/hearing difficulties):
Health Information
If your child has had any history of communicable diseases (e.g., chicken pox, measles), please list them below:
Does your child have any medical need(s) that requires additional support (e.g., Diabetes)?
YES NO
If yes, an individualized plan for children with medical needs must be developed between the parent and the staff of
Keepers of the Circle Indigenous Learning centre prior to the child’s first day of care.
Allergy Information
Does your child have a life-threatening allergy (e.g., anaphylactic to peanuts or bee stings)?
YES NO
If yes, an individualized plan for an anaphylactic allergy that includes emergency procedures must be developed between
the parent and Keepers of the Circle Indigenous Learning Centre prior to the child’s start date. Does your child have any allergies that are not life-threatening (food or other substance [e.g., latex])?
YES NO
If yes, please provide relevant details, including what your child is allergic to, symptoms of a reaction and treatment
required:
Dietary and Feeding Arrangements
*For children under 12 months, please complete, Appendix A: Supplementary Information for Children Under 12 Months.
Does your child have any special feeding arrangements (e.g., no sippy cups, mashed/pureed food)?
YES NO
If yes, please provide relevant details:
Does your child have any special dietary requirements or restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, kosher, halal)?
YES NO
If yes, please provide relevant details:
Sleep Arrangements
*For children under 12 months, please complete, Appendix A: Supplementary Information for Children Under 12 Months.
How many naps does your child typically have each day? __________________________________________________
At what times does your child typically nap? ____________________________________________________________
How long does your child usually nap? _________________________________________________________________
Does your child have any special sleep requirements (e.g., specific comfort item, soother)?
YES NO
If yes, please provide relevant details below:
Physical Requirements
Does your child use diapers?
YES NO
If no, my child:
□ Uses the washroom independently □ Requires some assistance □ Requires full support
Please provide relevant details:
Does your child require any additional support or accommodation with respect to physical activity?
YES NO
If yes, please provide relevant details:
Additional Information
Please indicate any additional information that is relevant to the care of your child (e.g., prone to colds, frequent shoulder
dislocation, etc.):
Parent Name
Parent Signature Date (dd/mm/yyyy)
Staff Name
Staff Signature Date (dd/mm/yyyy)
Note: ‘Parent’ is defined as a person having lawful custody of a child or person who has demonstrated a
settled intention to treat a child as a child of his or her family and includes legal guardians.
A: Supplementary Information for Children Under 12 Months
Child’s Full Legal Name:
Child’s Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy):
Age (in months):
Feeding Arrangements
My child drinks: □ breast milk □ formula □ breast milk and formula
My child has started eating solid foods YES NO
If YES, food must be: □ pureed □ mashed □ steamed until soft □ other:
My child can self-feed: YES (independently) YES (with support) NO
Please provide any other relevant instructions regarding feeding arrangements for your child (e.g., mealtimes, favourite
foods):
Sleep Arrangements
Note: According to the Joint Statement on Safe Sleep: Preventing Sudden Infant Deaths in Canada, children up to their
first birthday will be placed on their backs for sleep. This has been Health Canada’s recommendation since 1993, as a
means to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).1
The requirement for an infant sleep position may only be waived if a medical doctor/physician recommends differently in
writing.
How many naps does your child typically have each day? _________________________________________
At what times does your child typically nap? ____________________________________________________
How long does your child usually nap? ________________________________________________________
Does your child have any special sleep requirements (e.g., soother, must be rocked to sleep)?
YES NO
If yes, please provide relevant details:
Date (dd/mm/yyyy) Signature of Parent
Appendix B: Authorization for Non-Prescription Skin Products
Child’s Full Legal Name:
Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy):
The following non-prescription items may be applied to my child in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions on the original container (please check off):
□ Sunscreen □ Diaper Creams/Ointment □ Lip balm □ Hand
sanitizers
□ Insect repellent □ Lotions
Keepers of the Circle has agreed to provide:
Parent has agreed to provide:
Baby Wipes (Pampers Sensitive) Diapers
Sunscreen (Coppertone) Extra Clothes
Hand sanitizer Blanket
Soother if applicable
Indoor Shoes
Date Signature of Parent
*The following Immunization questionnaire must be completed and presented to the day care nurse at the Temiskaming Health Unit for confirmation of up to date immunization prior to your child’s first day of care.
If you have chosen not to immunize your child, a Statement of Medical Exemption form or a Statement of
Conscious or Religious Belief form must be completed and provided to the centre. These forms are
available on the Ministry of Education’s website.
