Licensing Requirements

Sweet feet Child Care is licensed and complies with all applicable licensing regulations and standards. These standards relate to our home, staff, health, safety procedures, nutrition, caregiver to child ratios and record keeping. We believe that these standards are in the best interest of the children. Our facility is subject to inspection by interior health, fire inspectors, and licensing officials.

Ages Accepted

At Sweet Feet Child Care, we specialize in childcare for children ages 18 months to five years old. We use a preschool curriculum specifically geared toward children ages 2 - 5. This allows us to focus on the younger age group of children we have in our care, and therefore betters the childcare experience for all involved.

Child Care Hours

Sweet Feet Child Care will operate Monday to Friday

18mths – 5yrs 7:30am to 4:00pm, maximum 8 hours/day

After school care for 5yrs – 12yrs 3:30pm – 8:00pm

Extended care fee $15.00 for up to 1 hour

Note: The childcare regular business hours are Infant/toddlers - Monday through Friday 7:30am – 4:00pm School age - Monday through Friday 7:30am – 8:30am / 4:30pm – 8:00pm. However, these hours are not the hours that a client is allotted to bring their child, hours for care will be discussed and a schedule will be set, and this will become the child’s “scheduled hours”. Care will only be provided for children during their contracted scheduled hours.

During the winter months, if the highway or local schools are closed, Sweet Feet Child Care will also be closed. In the event of a power outage, temperatures of -30 or below, or icy road conditions, Sweet Feet Child Care will also be closed. I will text or e-mail parents by 7:00 AM in the event of an unexpected closure.

Parents are responsible for providing back-up care in the event of a closure.

Holidays        Closed all Statutory Holidays

Good Friday, Easter Monday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, B.C Day, National Day for Truth, and Reconciliation, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Remembrance Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, Family Day.

We will also be closed: All EDO Fridays

April 24th ,2023, May 8th, 2023, June 19th, 2023, October 23rd, 2023, November 20th, 2023, December 22nd, 2023 January 29th, 2024, February 12th, 2024, March 1st, 2024

Christmas break - December 20th, 2023 - January 5th ,2024

Spring break - March 15th, 2023 – March 28th, 2023

Closed for summer break - June 23rd, 2023 - September 4th, 2023.

Note: if the holiday falls on a Saturday childcare will be closed the Friday before. If the holiday falls on a Sunday childcare will be closed the Monday after.

Sick/Personal days

As strong as our immune systems have become over the years, we unfortunately still get sick from time to time. Because of this we allot ourselves 10 sick/personal days per year. We also use these days for continuing education classes (CPR, etc..) to keep our childcare license in good standing. Of course, we will give you as much advance notice as possible.

Note: parents are required to have backup care for their children during provider vacations, holidays, unexpected closures, sick/personal days resulting in the childcare closing, as well as you and your child’s sick days, your vacation days, and your personal days.

Trial Period

All new children will be cared for on a 1-month trial period beginning on your child’s first actual day of care. During that time the parent or provider may terminate the childcare arrangement with 24 hours' notice. No prepaid fees will be credited upon termination during the trial period. After the trial period, a one month written notice is required by either party to terminate the agreement (see Termination Policy).

Initial

Wait list

A wait list will be formed when full enrollment (7 children) has been reached at Sweet Feet Child Care.

• Children are accepted into care on a first come first serve basis.

• The child's name is entered according to the date of the online application.

• When an opening for childcare occurs, I will contact the parents or Guardians of the first child on the waiting list by e-mail. If I don’t receive a response within 1 week I will go on to the next family on the waitlist.

• I will remove all applications after 1 year unless otherwise informed by email, call, or text.

Admission Policy

Admission to Sweet Feet Child Care is open to all children, regardless of race, gender, colour, religion, political persuasion, national origin, handicap, ancestry, or sexual orientation. I recommend that parents visit any childcare centre they are considering prior to enrolling. It is almost impossible to tell if a program is right for your child without seeing it in person.

Confidentiality Policy

It is the policy of Sweet Feet Child Care that any information or records held regarding your family and child will be kept confidential. They only release of information or records would be for a legal matter that is requested or required by law. It is also expected that any information you become aware of regarding other families, all fee and contract information are to be kept confidential and not to be discussed with other clients (past, current, potential) or anyone other than Sweet Feet Child Care.

Preschool Program

I provide a preschool program from September through June for children ages 2 through 5 at no additional cost to you. I am currently using the preschool palace curriculum. Some of the activities include arts & crafts, food, music, math, science, stories, games as well as letter, shape, colour, number recognition in a monthly theme format. I will encourage all children to participate in all activities, however, children do not have to participate, I will not force a child to participate.

Pets

Please be aware, sweet feet childcare is pet friendly, as there is a small elderly dog.

Communication 

Communication is very important to me. When I accept a new family into my business, I like to be sure that we can share openly any questions or concerns that may arise. I welcome questions, feedback, or discussions of any kind that are oriented towards a positive outcome for the child(ren).  

Sensitive issues will be discussed in private outside of regular childcare hours either by telephone or consultation. Consultation  

will not be scheduled as a routine part of your child's care; however, should you like to have a consultation, you may request one at any time. 

I publish a monthly Calendar that will explain some of the activities we are doing, our current curriculum themes, events that will be happening during that month, my days off, and any other pertinent or fun information that may be of interest to you.  

Parents of infants will receive a daily note. Some typical things you may find on this paper would be feedings, diaper changes, schedule, temperament, and things to remember.  

Parents of toddlers will only receive a daily note if requested. Some typical things you would find on this paper would be things to remember, rest schedule, activities, temperament, and meals.  

Parents of preschoolers or older will not receive a daily note unless there is an unusual reminder or a situation, I need to make you aware of.  

You are encouraged to call me at any time Monday – Friday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. If you call during the day, please be aware that I may be busy with the children and may not be able to answer the phone. If you would leave a message on my voice mail, I will call you back as soon as possible during regular business hours. The best time to call during the day is during our daily quiet time. Please limit communication to my business hours. I will no longer accept calls texts or emails while I am on my personal time, vacation days, sick days etc.

Any parents concerned with the care of their child, or any incidents are encouraged to speak with Sweet Feet Child Care. 

Do Not Bring

No Diaper bags, backpacks, toys, candy, food, or drinks will be allowed. If your child is eating, please wait until they are finished, and they have been cleaned up before entering.

Initial

Clothing 

Each child must have a complete change of seasonal clothing (no onesies, or button up pants) Pants with an elastic waist would be preferred for diaper changing and potty training. Include well-fitting running shoes (no open toed shoes, loose fitting shoes, ETC.) and socks. In sunny months they should have a hat, sunglasses and a supply of sunscreen and bug spray. In colder months they should have a toque, warm gloves and a snow suit kept at the center.

Sweet feet Child Care will supply diapers and wipes. If you prefer to supply your own diapers and wipes your fee will stay the same you will not receive a discount for supplying your own.  

House Rules  

The following rules are enforced for the safety and well-being of everyone: 

• Encourage all children to use manners and respect every day. I ask as a parent; you work with me to continue to stress these standards of conduct to your child. 

• There is no running in the house.  

• There is no hitting, pushing, biting, grabbing, kicking, pinching the other children or myself. 

• Children are not permitted in the kitchen area while the stove is on. 

• Obscene language is not allowed either by children or adults.  

• Children are not allowed to walk around the house with cups, bottles, or food, all children must be seated to eat any food or drink.  

• Respectful treatment of other children and all property, toys, books, and furniture is expected.  

If willful destruction of property occurs, you will be liable for 100% of the replacement costs. 

Outdoor Policy 

Children will be outside for a minimum of 1 hour everyday between 10:00am – 11:30am (Exceptions- Thunder/Lightning, Excessive rain, -10 or below ETC..). Children are required to have all necessary clothing for the season. Including mitts, hats, coat, and boots in fall/winter – well-fitting running shoes and a hat in the spring/summer to remain at the center. 

No Smoking Policy 

Smoking and the use of smokeless tobacco is prohibited in buildings, within the Child Care fenced area or in transportation vehicles during operating Child Care hours.

Potty Training Policies 

I will strive to support your efforts of potty training at home right through the day here at Child Care. However, there are some key signs to look for before I can help you train your child at Child Care. The key signs of readiness for potty training include: 

• The child can pull down and up their pants and underwear/pull-ups on their own with little or no assistance. 

• The child can communicate to you when they need to go to the bathroom. 

• The child’s diaper is dry after nap times and for long periods during the day. 

• The child can hold their bowels and bladder until they get to the potty once they realize that they need to go. 

If all these signs are not present, your child is not ready to potty train at Child Care, as I cannot have a potty in each room for them to use. 

Nap / Rest Policy 

Nap/rest time is required of all children in childcare who are in attendance for 4 or more hours. If your child has outgrown naps, they have outgrown my care. Your child is provided with an individual resting place. It is important that parents understand that all children need to rest. Infants and toddlers all come with their individual sleeping patterns. Children between the ages of one and 4 1/2 years are very active and need rest, but they show their autonomy by objecting or delaying when it is time to sleep. Adults cannot make children sleep, but they can be matter of fact in requiring restful breaks in children’s activity. I will try to meet their patterns while getting them into the routine of childcare. Each day after lunch will be rest time. The length of naps depends on the individual child. Blankets, Teddy Bears, and other comfort items may be brought from home to be used at nap time to help a child adjust. I also ask parents not to pick up children without prior notice during this period as it has proven to be very disruptive to the other children. 

Requirement to report suspected abuse or neglect 

As a Child Care professional, I am required to report any suspicion of child neglect or abuse to the ministry of children and family development. I will report any abuse I suspect, or that a child discloses to me or that a third-party discloses to me. It is not my responsibility to investigate or question the circumstances of the suspected abuse. I will not inform you or anyone else of my suspicions and subsequent report to the ministry. It is the ministry’s responsibility to investigate any report and to inform all those involved of their investigation. The health and well-being of the children is my first concern. 

Missing child policy 

I anticipate no such incidents, but as a precaution I have instituted the following procedures: As soon as I realized that a child in my care is missing from the group, I will secure the other children with a responsible adult and begin a search of the immediate area. After 2 minutes I will expand the search area. If we are in a public building, I will have the child paged if possible. I will get as many people involved as I can in the search. After 10 minutes I will call the police and inform them of the child’s name, age, weight, height, clothing and footwear and record the file number that the police will give me. Then I will call the parents to inform of what has happened, what is being done, and then I will call them back in a few minutes to update them. When the child is found I will contact the parent/guardian, alert everyone else involved, and hold a debriefing as soon as possible. As a follow-up: I would assess the situation and make changes, if necessary, to avoid the risk of a similar incident. As well, I would further educate the children in my care about the importance of staying with the group. 

Prescription Medication 

All medications are always kept out of children’s reach. 

• Prescription medication will only be administered if it has been prescribed by a qualified medical practitioner, it is in its original container with instructions from your doctor on how to administer it. Label must clearly show the following information: Child’s name, Name of medication, Dosage, Route (oral, nasal, rectal, eye, ear, or injection), Physician’s name, Care of medication (shake well, refrigerate), Date to end the administration of medication and I have an Authorization for the Administration of Medication form completed by the parent and provider. 

• A “medical consent” form must be filled out by a parent for each medication required. 

• Sweet Feet Child Care will not administer non-prescription medication at any time.  

Meals 

All food will be provided at no additional charge (excluding a special diet, formula, baby food). This includes morning snack-10am, lunch-12pm, and afternoon snack-3pm. Meals will follow the Canadian Food Guide. Lunch will consist of 2-3 vegetable servings cooked or raw and a healthy protein or carbohydrate. Food does more than just satisfy hunger. It is the building material and energy provider for our bodies. Good nutrition is especially important for young bodies that are growing and developing. Variety is fundamental in nutrition since no food can supply all the necessary nutrients. Each day's meals and snacks will include selections from all four food groups to ensure the daily intake or required nutrients. 

Snacks are an important part of a small child’s diet, because their stomachs are small and may not be able to hold enough food for a four- or five-hour interval. Snacks consist of Milk or juice, cereal, yogurt, toast, fruit, crackers, vegetables, and nutritious cookies. Water will always be available to the children throughout the day and be served with snacks and lunch. I will supply a labeled water bottle for each child. At no time will food or drink be used as a form of reward or punishment for the children. Parents are responsible for feeding their child before arrival at childcare. Please do not send any food, drink, or candy with your child unless your child is on a special diet. If your child requires a special diet, you will need to provide snacks (2/day) and lunch (1/day). Providing food, does not affect your tuition fee in any way. Lunch menus for the week are posted at the front door. Parents may look at full daily menus at any time.

Authorization for pick-up 

The safety of children is of paramount concern at Sweet Feet Child Care. When children are being picked up from Child Care, Leanne will ensure that the person doing the pickup is authorized to do so and does not appear to be unwell or intoxicated. If, in an emergency, you need to send someone else to pick up your child, please call-in advance with the name and description of the person who will be coming. I will require photo identification. The person should then be added to the list of people authorized to pick up your child. If a child is not picked up at the agreed-upon time, the authorized alternate will be called. If you or an authorized alternate cannot be contacted and 1 hour has passed, I will consider the child abandoned and call the appropriate Ministry. If someone whom I deem incapable of providing safe care arrives to pick up a child, they will be refused, and you or your authorized alternate will be called to pick up your child. If an alternative cannot be reached within a reasonable length of time, the ministry of Children and Family Development will be called. If it appears that you are incapable of providing safe care, I will suggest we call an authorized alternate to pick up your child. If you insist on taking the child(ren), I will release them to your care and call the RCMP.  

Non-Custodial Parents 

Parents must provide a copy of any custody order and a photo of non-custodial parent. If the non-custodial parent insists that the child be released to them. Sweet Feet Child Care will: 

• calmly state the release of a child policy  

• ensure the child is safe.  

• contact custodial parent. 

• call RCMP if the parent tries to leave with the child. 

Drop off and Pick Up Policy 

• Drop-off and Pick-up should be brief limited to 5 Minutes.

• Only one family is to be dropping off and picking up at a time. Please, park in the driveway for drop-off and pick-up. If another family is dropping off or picking up, please wait in your car until the driveway is clear and pull into the driveway for your turn. 

• You can only come at your scheduled hours. ex: if you are scheduled for 8am-4:00pm you cannot come before 8am and must pick up and be off the property no later than 4:00pm. Early/Late fees will be strictly enforced. Please have your payment at or before drop-off the next day. 

• Absolutely no food, drinks or candy is permitted at drop-off. If your child is eating, please remain in your vehicle until they are finished, and they have been cleaned up. 

• There is NO drop-off or pick-up during nap time. Between 12:45pm and 3:15pm (without prior notice).

• If you drop-off 30 minutes after your scheduled drop-off time I will refuse your Child(ren) care for that day. 

• Children will not be accepted into care after 8:30am

• Parents are NOT to enter the main house for any reason. 

• There is no lingering or playing in the childcare yard, it is private property. If we are in the yard, you are not to stay and let your child(ren) play at any time. 

• If you are not at your usual contact site, please inform Sweet Feet Child Care. I must be able to contact you in the event of an emergency. 

• If your child has an appointment, it is expected that the appointment time will be made so that there will only, be one drop off and pick up. Late day appointments are encouraged.  

• If you have other children with you, they are YOUR RESPONSIBILTY and they are NOT to enter the Child Care area or to play in the backyard. Please remember while you are present, you oversee your child(ren) please keep them under control. 

Early/Late Policy 

A parent/guardian who picks up their child after the scheduled pick-up time or drop-off before scheduled drop-off time, will be charged a fee. Transportation to and from care is the responsibility of each parent. If a child has not been picked up on time Sweet Feet Child Care will make all attempts to call the contact numbers including emergency contact numbers. If Sweet Feet Child Care is not successful in contacting anyone authorized to pick-up, after 1-hour late, Sweet Feet Child Care will call the Ministry of Children and Family Development and the child will be released to the Ministry. If parents pick up their child(ren) late on 3 or more occasions, Sweet Feet Child Care will ask you to find alternative care for your child(ren). Childcare will be suspended until payment is made. You will be charged up to the minute you leave (not when you arrive). This fee also applies if you are at the childcare with your child after your scheduled pick-up time. Make sure you are here in time to get your child ready and ask any questions you might have. My time is very valuable to me, as is yours to you and I expect that you follow your schedule. 

Initial

Late pick-up Policy 

It is your responsibility to pick your child up on time. When parents are late to pick up their children, it causes hardship. Because I am unable to leave at the end of my scheduled shift. I have classes, a family, and regular personal commitments for which I am responsible. It can also be distressing for children to be left at the center after hours. Late pickup is not a program option. Please allow enough time at the end of the day to arrive at the center, pick up your child(ren) and leave by your scheduled pick-up time as per your contract and rate agreement. I have a strict pick-up policy and closing time in my home childcare. I understand that emergencies arise. I also understand that traffic (weather, etc.) can be challenging or hectic. However, I expect all children to be picked up on time. Any issues do not excuse the late fee that will be charged. When your child is picked up late, I am required to remain working, therefore, unable to keep my commitments.  

Families are required to sign the late fee acknowledgement when the child(ren) is picked up after your scheduled pick-up time. 

Families will be charged for late pick-up/early drop-off as follows: 

$10 per child for the first 5 minutes or less, and $25 per child for every additional 10 minutes or less thereafter, will be charged to any family who has not collected their child(ren) from the center by their scheduled pick-up time.  

Late fees are due at or before drop-off the following day or care will not be provided.  

 

Late Fee Charged Per Child 

1 to 5 minutes $10 

6 to 15 minutes $35 

16 to 25 minutes $60 

26 to 35 minutes $85 

Late fees will continue to accumulate at an additional $25 for each subsequent 10-minute period or part of. 

Late charges will be assessed at the time of pick up. Sweet Feet Child Care will not serve families who cannot pick up their children on time on a regular basis. Repeated tardiness (3 or more) in picking up a child after their scheduled pick-up time will result in the dismissal from the program. 

Tuition Policy   

At Sweet Feet Child Care, you are paying for a specific spot, NOT per hour or per day. If your child does not attend for whatever reason, or if the childcare is closed for any reason, payment is still expected in full. NO adjustments are made if your child doesn't come to care, this includes parent holidays, vacation (excluding July and August), weather closures, emergencies, and exclusion due to illness. Tuition for months where there is a closure is the same as for months when there are no closures. Full tuition is charged regardless of attendance. 

Tuition is to be paid monthly, by means of electric money transfer (E.M.T.) by 9:00am on or before the 1st of every month.                                                                                                                    

Late Tuition Fees 

Tuition Fees are due by 9:00am on or before the 1st day of each month. Tuition fees that are not paid in full by 9:00am on or before the 1st day of each month are considered past due, and a charge of $25.00 per day, including weekends, will be assessed to your account until fees are paid in full. If fees are outstanding your child(ren) will not be accepted at childcare. until all fees (including late tuition fees) are paid in full.                

Non-Refundable Enrollment Fee 

Admission to Sweet Feet Child Care requires a Non-Refundable Enrollment Fee equivalent to 2 weeks fees (to be used towards the final 2 weeks of care only after one (1) year of consistent care). This fee is due one (1) week prior to the accepted enrollment date. This fee is non-refundable and will be forfeited if your child has not been in consistent care for the required one (1) year from the original contract date, the child is not brought for care, if parents do not give proper one (1) months' notice following the required one (1) year contract, or if the provider terminates the contract effective immediately. (See Termination Policy)          

Non-Refundable Material fee 

An annual Non-Refundable Material fee of $150.00 per child will be charged yearly on September 1st, of every year. This fee is non-refundable and will be used to enhance the learning environment with equipment and materials provided for your child throughout the year.                                                                                      

Initial

Non-Refundable Holding Fee 

When I agree to hold an opening, I give up the right to fill that position with another child who would be paying full tuition. For this reason, a Non-Refundable Holding fee is required to hold an opening. Beginning on the date that the opening becomes available, and due for each month that the opening is to be held. This fee will consist of one month's full tuition and will be due on or before the 1st   of every month that the opening is to be held. If the payment is not received by 9:00am on or before the 1st of the month the opening will no longer be held. All fees paid will be forfeited. 

Extended Care Fee

If a family is requiring care before or after the regular 8 hours of care (pre-approved only). The rate of extended care is $15.00 for up to 1 hour of extended care. Extended care fees will be billed monthly (before the month of care). Hours and dates must be pre-arranged before the fees are due for that month.

Methods of payment 

Payment is to be made by Electronic Money Transfer (E.M.T.). Sorry Cheques and Cash will not be accepted.

All E.M.T.’s must be received by 9:00am on or before the 1st of the month.

Please send to: sweetfeetchildcare@hotmail.com

Taxes 

I will supply you with a year-end summary of all Child Care fees paid during the year for tax purposes. This will be given to you in February each year or when services are terminated. If any other copies or a replacement of the receipt are needed there is an administration fee of $20 per receipt. The client is responsible to provide the Child Care in writing of any changes to their address. 

The B.C. Government is offering a rebate to parents of children who attend approve centers and will pay up to $600/month for full time infant and toddler contracts and up to $500/month for full time 3-5-year-old contracts.

The Affordable Childcare Benefit 

Anyone seeking financial assistance with Child Care fees can access information and apply by visiting Affordable Child Care Benefit - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)

Child Care Subsidy policy 

Child Care Subsidy, administered by the ministry of Children and Family development BC Provincial Government, is a monthly payment that helps eligible British Columbian families with the cost of Child Care. Families fill out an application and provide supporting documents to apply. Once the family is approved and authorization is established the provider receives an authorization number and billing forms. 

Child Care cannot start until authorization and billing forms are received unless the parent agrees to pay the regular fee. 

Providers can only bill for the maximum number of the days that the family is qualified for, If the child actually attends. If the child is booked to attend but does not, the provider can only bill subsidy for that day if the parent informs the provider that the child or their parents was Ill or on holidays. It is up to the parent to ensure that the provider is informed If the child is away because of illness or vacation. If the provider is not informed, the parent will be responsible for the regular fee. The fee for missed days that are not covered by subsidy is to be paid before the end of the month. 

Parents are responsible for any fees over and above what subsidy pays on behalf of the family. The parent portion is due on or before the 1st of the month. 

Supervision Policy and Procedures 

At Sweet Feet Child Care, Sweet Feet Child Care must always provide effective supervision that ensures the safety, well-being, and development of the children. I believe that effective supervision is more than just watching children; it is about using strategies that promote effective supervision practices and create safe environments for the children I care for. These strategies reduce the risk of harm to children by preventing injuries and accidents. They also promote positive, responsive, and intentional learning environments for children.  

Effective Supervision Strategies and Procedures:  

Effective caregivers must always:  

1. Be aware of the physical environment:  

• Conduct regular safety checks of the program premises and equipment to remove hazards 

• Position equipment and arranging the environment to allow a clear view of the children. 

• Know which individuals are authorized to pick-up a child from the program in place of a parent.  

• Be aware when children arrive and leave the Center, ensuring that both the arrival and departure times are accurately recorded.  

• Use a consistent system during headcounts (counts should be done during all transitions, including when children leave or return to the classroom or playground, during regular play activities as well as leaving for and returning from school. Sweet Feet Child Care must always, have a current and up to date checklist of children in her care to ensure all children are present and accounted for.  

• Know where emergency medications, first aid kits, and emergency contact numbers are kept.  

• Establish simple rules for children (for example: “When we are indoors, we walk” or “Walking for safety”,).   

• Always monitor children.  

2. Observe children’s play and behavior by:  

• Directing and closely monitoring children when carrying out activities that may involve some risk, such as playing near water, near doorways or transition times when children may gather in larger groups.  

• Observing play and anticipating what may happen next in order to assist children and intervene in the event of potential danger.  

• Positioning herself to allow for the supervision of the entire group of children.  

• Monitoring children’s health to identify early signs of fever, illness, or unusual behavior. 

• Napping children under 36 months sleep in a separate sleeping area and will be monitored by a video baby monitor as well as periodic visual checks.  

• Watching and participating in children’s play to ensure that children are playing in a safe manner. 

Effective supervision is one of the most important tasks caregivers must perform throughout the day. I am caring for the most precious treasures – children! 

Guidance and Treatment of Children 

Activities within the program will be monitored and adjusted accordingly, in consultation with parents to promote ongoing development.   

Positive guidance techniques will be used to encourage appropriate behavior. They include:  

• Establishing clear, consistent, and simple limits  

• Stating limits in a positive way 

• Focusing on the behavior, rather than on the child 

• Stating what is expected, rather than pose questions. 

• Providing real choices 

• Allowing time for children to respond to expectations. 

• Reinforce appropriate behavior, with both words and gestures. 

• Encourage children to use me as a resource when they cannot resolve issues on their own. 

Inevitably there will be occurrences of inappropriate behavior. It is at these times that there may be a need to intervene. The following intervention strategies, or combination of the strategies, will be used to help ensure that guidance is supportive, rather than punitive.   

• Gain attention in a respectful way 

• Remind children of more appropriate behavior 

• Acknowledge feelings before setting limits 

• Redirect or divert when appropriate 

• Model problem-solving skills 

• Offer appropriate choices 

• Use natural and logical consequences 

• Provide opportunities for children to make amends. Rather than demand a superficial apology, encourage genuine opportunities for children to restore relationships after an incident of hurt or harm.  

Any serious concerns will be discussed with the family so that we might work together to encourage appropriate behavior. If all interventions have been exhausted and no improvement in behavior has occurred, Sweet Feet Child Care will inform parents that their child will be removed from the Child Care. 

Termination Policy 

• One (1) month written notice is required and MUST be given on or before the first day of the month. 

• If termination is done within the first 52 weeks [one (1) year] of consistent care (original contract start date), you forfeit your non-refundable enrollment fee. You will still need to pay the full tuition fee for your child’s last month of care. The tuition fee must be paid in full before your child’s final month of care. 

• If the non-refundable enrollment fee is greater than the amount owed for the two weeks of care the remainder will go towards other expenses. 

• If termination is done immediately (with or without notice), or with less than one (1) month notice all of the non-refundable enrolment fee will go towards other expenses. You are still responsible for paying your full tuition fees in lieu of the month notice. The payment must be paid in full within four (4) weeks of your child’s last day of care. 

• If you terminate within one (1) month before, or during the providers scheduled days off (not including Stat.’s), you forfeit your non-refundable enrollment fee. The non-refundable enrollment fee will go towards other expenses. You will still need to pay the tuition fee for your child`s last month of care. The tuition fee must be paid in full within four (4) weeks of your child’s last day of care. 

• If you or the provider terminates with notice and you decide to leave before the end of the notice period you forfeit all fees paid (enrollment fees, tuition fee, etc.) and the remainder of the notice period of care. Payment is still due for the duration of the notice period. 

• If you terminate care before physical care has started you forfeit all fees paid. Such as, but not limited to; tuition fees, holding fees, enrollment fee, material fees etc. 

• If you terminate care and then wish to return at a later date you will need to sign a new contract, pay new increase fees, pay another Non-Refundable Enrollment Fee and Non-Refundable Material Fee. You are not guaranteed a spot unless a non-refundable enrollment fee and non-refundable material fee have been paid. 

 

Immediate termination is available to the provider if 

• A child’s behavior threatens the physical well-being of anyone else in the center. 

• If a parent is verbally, physically abusive or threatening to any persons at the center. 

• Failure to adhere to the Enrollment Handbook and Policies. 

• Contract Violations 

• 3 or more late pick-ups 

• For non-payment. 

• For failure to disclose non-immunization, or medical conditions.

• Violations of the Illness/Covid-19 Policies. 

• For continually allowing your child to stay and play once you have arrived for pick-up.

• For “dosing and dropping” to hide symptoms of illness which would deem a child as needing a minimum of 48hr exclusion.  

In these circumstances a charge of one (1) month fee in lieu of written notice will be applied as it’s wholly avoidable.  

*Fees are due regardless of attendance for the notice period. 

Illness Policy:  

For the protection of all the children in my care as well as the health of your own child and my family, this is my illness policy. To protect the group, I ask that parents assist me by keeping sick children at home (it is not a provider’s responsibility to watch your sick children).

If a child becomes sick while here the family will be notified, and prompt pick-up arrangements will be made. Once a child has become sick while in care a parent/guardian will be given 1 hour for pick-up, if a parent/guardian are longer than 1 hour they will be billed the late pick-up fee of 1-5 mins late $10.00, 6-15 mins late $35.00, 16-25 mins late $60.00.

If your child is sick, please allow 48 hours symptom free with no fever reducing medication. Do not confuse this with the onset of symptoms, meaning 48 hours begins after the child’s symptoms have disappeared. Children with diagnosed communicable diseases are not permitted to attend Child Care. If your child is sick and must stay home, no credit or refund will be given.  

If a child is sick, unable to play outdoors, and/or unable to participate in regular daily activities, alternate arrangements for care must be made. If I am too ill to care for the child(ren), the Child Care program will be closed. I will endeavor to give you as much notice as possible when I cannot provide care. It is your responsibility to make alternative Child Care arrangements. 

It is at the discretion of Sweet Feet Child Care to determine whether a child can attend childcare. If the child is deemed not well enough to attend the child is to be taken home.

Children with infectious illnesses cannot attend. 

When a child may not attend Child Care: 

• COVID-19 - For children and staff who are confirmed ill COVID-19 with respiratory illness symptoms (fever, cough, fatigue and/or muscle aches) to stay home from Child Care for a minimum of 5 days and may return only after 48 hours symptom free with no fever reducing medicine.

• Fever 99.9 degrees and higher 

This includes the night before/morning of childcare ~ No fever for 48 hours without taking fever reducing medication. If you had to give your child medicine the night before then that still means they cannot come to childcare the next morning. 

• Green/yellow discharge from the nose or eyes.

• Severe diaper rash

• Rash ~ Unexplained rash ~ Infected skin or eyes ~ Consult doctor. 

• Pain - any complaints of unexplained or undiagnosed pain. 

• Vomiting or/and Diarrhea ~ diarrhea or loose stool (may or may not be combined with nausea, vomiting or stomach cramps) these symptoms may indicate a bacterial or viral gastrointestinal infection which is very easily passed from one child to another via the fecal-oral route. The child should be kept at home until all symptoms have stopped for 48 hours. 

• Strep Throat ~ Consult doctor. Child must be on antibiotics for 36 hours and be without a fever without medication for it. 

• Headache and stiff neck (should see a physician) 

• Difficulty in breathing - wheezing or a persistent cough. 

• Sore throat or trouble swallowing/coughing colds. 

• Flu/Bronchitis/Pneumonia ~ Consult doctor. This usually takes about 3-4 days before they can come back to Child Care. Must be on antibiotics and no fever for at least 48 hours without taking fever reducing medication. 

• Ear Infection ~ Consult doctor. Child must be on antibiotics and no fever for 48 hours before returning. 

• Conjunctivitis (red eyes with yellow discharge)/Pink Eye ~ Consult doctor. Child must be on eye drops/antibiotics for 36 hours. 

• Mumps, measles, influenza, pertussis (whooping cough), croup, impetigo, tuberculosis, rubella., rosella, etc.

• Anything contagious and transmittable.

• Head Lice ~ Usually takes 24 hours to treat head and house ~ When all nits have been removed. 

• Any ailment that requires fever or pain medication.

• A 48-hour exclusion once a child has been immunized.

• If the child is too tired or fussy to participate in normal activities.

In any case of serious or unexplainable illness, a doctor’s medical clearance will be required prior to admission back into care. If your child is being dropped off and appears ill, Sweet Feet Child Care will ask you to find alternate care and will not allow your child to stay at the childcare that day.   

Please promptly inform Sweet Feet Child Care of a serious illness or contagious disease in your household. This permits me to take appropriate actions to protect the health of other children at the Child Care. 

If you have any questions concerning this policy and whether your child should attend, please call Sweet Feet Child Care before bringing your child. 

• PLEASE BE COURTEOUS OF ALL CHILDREN IN MY PROGRAM, AND REFRAIN FROM BRINGING AN ILL CHILD UNTIL 48 HOURS HAVE PASSED SINCE ANY FEVER, VOMITING, DIARRHEA, OR ANY OTHER COMMUNICABLE SYMPTOMS HAVE OCCURRED.                                                                                    

Common Cold Policy 

Children suffering from a common cold will be assessed on an individual basis. 

Factors of consideration include the developmental level of your child in congruence with my ability to limit the spread of germs. The younger your child, the more difficult it is to keep the spread of germs down. For example: hand to face contact, mouthing of toys, thumb sucking, uncontrolled nasal discharge, uncovered sneezing and coughing etc. 

When caring for an ill child, the ability to provide high quality care to all of the other children is jeopardized. 

A child may return when he or she is free from symptoms and no longer infectious. The child should also be well enough to actively participate throughout the day. In any case of serious or unexplainable illness, a doctor’s medical clearance will be required prior to admission back into care. 

If your child is being dropped off and appears ill, Sweet Feet Child Care will ask you to find alternate care and will not allow your child to stay at the childcare that day.   

Please promptly inform Sweet Feet Child Care of a serious illness or contagious disease in your household. This permits us to take appropriate actions to protect the health of other children at the Child Care. 

If you have any questions concerning this policy and whether your child should attend, please call Sweet Feet Child Care before bringing your child. 

PLEASE BE COURTEOUS OF ALL CHILDREN IN MY PROGRAM, AND REFRAIN FROM BRINGING AN ILL CHILD UNTIL 48 HOURS HAVE PASSED SINCE ANY FEVER, VOMITING, DIARRHEA, OR ANY OTHER COMMUNICABLE SYMPTOMS HAVE OCCURRED.   

Emergency plan 

The possible risks that may impact the Child Care are:  

• Severe weather, power outages, gas leak, fire 

Children will be kept safe at my home in emergency situations when it is unsafe to leave and/or in the event parents are unable to pick up their children by keeping them calm by coloring, reading and there will be a supply of water and snacks.  

Sweet Feet Child Care has a valid First Aid and will practice this emergency plan yearly to ensure the safety of the children in the event of an emergency. Yearly Sweet Feet Child Care will walk with the children to our designated relocation place. Sweet Feet Child Care will check the supplies during a monthly fire drill. 

Once all children have been safely evacuated Sweet Feet Child Care will call 911 with the cell phone, then the parents will be notified about the evacuation. Sweet Feet Child Care will limit non-emergency call, with brief calls or text messages. I will also leave a message on the front door. 

The supplies and equipment I will have available are a First aid kit, flashlight, Cell phone, seasonal clothing, emergency contact cards for each child, food, water, and toys to comfort children.

Our safe meeting place in Sparwood Heights will be Sparwood Heights Foods 1290 Ponderosa Dr, B.C. V0B2G2 Phone # 250-425-2535 and in case of a larger Hazard the safe meeting place will be in the Greenwood Mall 113 Red Cedar Dr Sparwood B.C. V0B 2G0 Phone # 250-425-6489.

The children will be transported to the safe meeting place by strollers and walking the older children using a buddy system. In the event of a larger hazard, children will be transported in appropriate car seats and booster seats by bus and when the bus is not available children will be transported in my vehicle to the Greenwood Mall. 

After an emergency Sweet Feet Child Care will talk to parents and children about what has happened as well as what will be done to return to normal. Sweet Feet Child Care will restock emergency supplies including food and water. Make any repairs to the facility if required. Sweet Feet Child Care will also evaluate the emergency plan to fix what did not work and what could be improved to ensure the safety of all children. 

Emergency Evacuation 

There is an emergency evacuation policy that is reviewed, practiced, and recorded monthly. 

Smoke alarms will be tested. A first-aid kit, and attendance record, a pen or pencil, and an emergency information card for each child is kept beside the exit door for quick and easy access. Emergency supplies, including water and food will be kept in an accessible place. The supplies will be checked and rotated. A buddy system will be adopted and practice regardless of the number of children in the facility. Sweet Feet Child Care knows how to work the fire extinguishers, shut off gas lines, Hydro, water, and furnace. Children will be taught what to do in case of a fire, earthquake, and other emergencies. Evacuation drills will be practiced. A simple diagram of exit plan from the building to the meeting place will be posted along with all emergency phone numbers. The designated meeting place outside the building will be assigned.