THE SECRET GARDEN PRESCHOOL POLICIES
Philosophy and Goals
Through our literature based curriculum we nurture the child’s development with emphasis on communication and celebration of life by exploring the wonders of the world and its many cultures and traditions. We focus on the whole child and provide opportunity for growth through exploration, instruction and experience. Our daily emphasis is on the child’s developmental stages and encouragement of age appropriate activities and social interaction. Our goal is to provide a safe and stimulating atmosphere while meeting the individual needs of each child. Kindergarten readiness is a primary goal of our program and is achieved through our daily activities and curriculum. Our students are prepared emotionally, socially and cognitively for advancement to elementary school.
Admission Policies
We invite parents and children to come visit our school, take a guided tour of the school and meet with our members of staff. After a tour of the facility we will answer any questions that the parents may have regarding their child’s enrollment in to The Secret Garden Preschool.
The following forms must be completed and returned prior to your child’s enrollment at the Secret Garden Preschool:
Notification of Parents’ Rights Form (LIC 995)
Personal Rights Form (LIC613A)
Identification & emergency information (LIC700)
Consent for Emergency information (LIC627)
Child’s Preadmission Health History-Parents Report (LIC 702)
Physician’s Report-Child Care Centers(LIC 701)
Immunization requirements
Compatibility Determination
Prior to admission the director/administrator may meet with parents to discuss the program and the child’s needs to determine if the program meets the child’s needs.
Staffing Ratio
The state requires a 1 : 12 ratio of teachers to preschoolers. The Secret Garden’s ratio is 1 : 6
Programs Offered
The Secret Garden offers a Preschool Program for children two years through five years old. No optional outside services are offered.
Updating Emergency Information
Please notify us if any of your contact information changes, including your address, so that we may update our records.
Sign In/Out Procedure
Parents are required by law to sign their child in and out, recording the time, with a FULL signature (initials are not permissible), in ink. Please notify staff if someone other than a parent will be picking up your child and verify they are listed on the Emergency Information Form (LIC 700).
Schedule Changes, Absences, and Termination of Services
As a courtesy to staff and your child’s well being, if your child will be absent due to illness or vacation we require notification. Any request for changes to the scheduled days or termination of services must be submitted in writing one month in advance. Changes are dependent on availability of space due to state licensing criteria.
Payment Policy
Payment for services must be paid in advance. Tuition for the current month is due on the 1st day of the month. A late fee of $50 is due after the 10th, $75 after the 15th, and $100 after the 25th. Non payment after the 25th may result in termination of services. Statements for monthly services as well as end of the year tax statements can be downloaded directly from Procare.
Late Pick Up Fee
We recommend picking your child up before our 5:30 pm closing time. Our staff has families and commitments and cannot stay past 5:30 pm. Should a child be picked up after 5:30 pm, a per minute fee as indicated on the Fee Schedule will be charged. Please be respectful of our staff and pick your child up on time. For your child’s well being, our policy is that a “full day” is limited to nine hours of care.
Refunds or Credits
Refunds or credits are not issued for days missed due to illness, holidays, vacation, the two weeks the school is closed, or other reasons.
Holidays
The Secret Garden is closed on the following national holidays:
New Years’ Day Martin Luther King’s Birthday
President’s Day Easter Monday
Memorial Day Juneteenth
Labor Day July Fourth
Thanksgiving and Friday Veteran’s Day
Christmas Day
A teacher workday may be scheduled with advance notification to parents.
Closures
The Secret Garden is closed between Christmas and New Year's Day.
Extra Hours and Drop-in Care
Extra hours and drop-in care must be arranged and approved by the director and is limited to availability of space. This time is due and payable on the date of service. Please do not ask staff to provide babysitting services outside of The Secret Garden, as that is against our policy.
Naps
Naps or rest time is provided after lunch. Cots are provided and sheets. Parents must provide a blanket and may include a favorite doll or cuddle toy.
Meals and Snacks
A mid-morning snack is provided for children attending mornings. For those who stay for lunch a hot lunch is provided. A mid-afternoon snack is provided for children attending afternoons. All food is prepared by a member of our staff on site from organic local produce whenever possible. Please inform us of any dietary/allergy needs your child may have. Food may not be brought into school.
Birthdays
Children may celebrate their birthday during a preapproved circle time. Snacks may be provided by parents. Only nut free store bought items please.
Dress Code and Change of Clothing
Children should come to school dressed for play. Shoes should protect their feet and be easy to remove and put on, but should not easily slip off. Shoes with Velcro closures are preferred. Sandals and flip flops are hard to run and climb in and are discouraged. Please provide a change of play clothes which will stay in their cubby. We encourage sand and water play when the weather permits, digging in sand every day, and some art projects can be messy. A good day at school can mean very dirty clothes going home!
Diapers and Toilet Readiness
Parents will provide diapers and wipes. It is our philosophy that toilet readiness is a developmental stage and is not required for admission
Field Trips
Parents will be notified prior to any field trip and permission for said trip obtained in writing. All parents are welcome and encouraged to attend field trips. Children will be transported by private cars and must be in car seats. Examples of field trips are trips to Natural Bridges to see the Monarchs, Point Lobos, a pumpkin patch, or local museums.
Photographs and website
Pictures may be taken of activities and field trips which may be posted to our website. Most posts are password protected to protect the privacy of our families. If you prefer your child’s photograph not be used, please let us know.
Insurance
The Secret Garden provides liability and accident insurance for staff and accidental medical coverage for the children.
Non Discrimination
The Secret garden does not discriminate against anyone due to race, religion, or disability.
Optional Outside Services
The Secret Garden does not offer any optional outside services. We do not use any consultants or special services, or provide supplementary services at this time.
Transportation
The Secret Garden does not offer any type of transportation to or from the preschool.
Special Needs
A needs and service plan for children with special needs will be developed with parents.
Discipline Procedure
It is our policy to use verbal communication with a child when a behavior is unacceptable. Corporal punishment is not permitted or any violation of a child’s personal rights. If the behavior continues, the child will be moved to another space with a teacher where such behavior shall be allowed until the child is able to rejoin the other children. If the child is a danger to him/herself, another child or staff member, the parent will be contacted for a conference. If a child remains a concern or presents a danger to self and or others, care may be discontinued and services terminated. We reserve the right to refuse service on the grounds of safety.
Confidentiality
All information and records obtained from, or regarding to children will be confidential.
Pre-Admission Health History, ID & Emergency Information, Consent for medical Treatment, Physical Exam, Admission Agreement
These required forms are included in this packet and upon completion by parent will be kept in each child’s file.
Parent’s Rights LIC995 and Personal Rights LIC 613A
A copy of each notification is included in this packet and acknowledgment of said notifications shall be kept in each child’s file.
Provisions of Law Regarding Complaints
The local state licensing office for day care or preschool licensing is Community Care Licensing, Department of Social Services, State of California, 2580 N. First St. #300, San Jose CA 95113, Phone: 408-324-2148.
Communicable Diseases
Parents will be notified if children have been exposed to any infectious or communicable diseases. We require parents notify us if a child contracts any infectious or communicable disease. If a child becomes ill at school they will be isolated from other children, a parent notified and expected to pick the child up immediately.
Medical or Dental Emergencies
In the event of an accident the director will evaluate the severity of the injury and determine if 911 should be called. The child’s parents will be notified and informed as to steps taken. All accidents will be documented in writing, describing the type of accident, injury, steps taken and follow up.
Return From Illness and Doctor’s Release Statement
Every child MUST remain at home for at least 24 hours after cessation of the symptoms listed on our Sickness Policy, except in the case of a cold, when he or she must remain home the first two days he or she displays symptoms. If your child contracts a communicable disease a Doctor’s Release Statement is required before returning to school.
Check-Up Requirement
It is a state law that your child has a health check-up prior to enrollment in preschool and within 12 months of attending Kindergarten. It is also required your child be current on required immunizations as stated in the California Health and Safety Code, provided herein.
Medication Policy/LIC 9221
If a child requires prescription medication be administered by staff California LIC Form 9221 must be completed and signed by the parent/legal guardian and administration instructions should be provided. Staff will ensure to follow the aforementioned procedure to create a routing and referral for a Care Plan to be in place prior to admittance into the facility and/or returning to school. All medication must be kept in their original containers, bearing the original prescription label with legible information. Remember to take the medication home daily/weekly, or alternatively, have the pharmacist fill the prescription in two separate containers, one for school and one for home.
IMS Plan: (Chronic condition-long lasting)
Should a child be identified with the following medical needs: Blood-Glucose Monitoring for Diabetic Children, Glucagon Administration, Gastrostomy Tube Care, Emptying an Ileostomy Bag; the incidental medical services procedure will be updated and filed in accordance with California Child Care Licensing regulations. All center staff will receive intermittent health care training on incidental medical services provided. Whenever possible, Center staff will include the child’s family IMS-PO (Incidental Medical Services Plan of Operation) and/or other medical personnel including but not limited to SOP Health/Nutrition/Safe Environments unit, to provide additional support for training.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
The Secret Garden Preschool regards a physically and emotionally safe environment as its highest priority.
HERE IS WHAT THE STAFF WILL DO:
1.Participate in ongoing FIRST AID and CPR training and certification.
2.Provide regular fire and earthquake drills for students.
3.Provide regular opportunities for students to discuss feelings.
HERE IS WHAT THE PARENTS CAN DO:
Provide us with updated and accurate emergency contact information and a complete change of clothing to be kept in your child’s cubbie.
Notification of California State Licensing Rights Section 101200 of the Health Code
(a) The Department pas the inspection authority specified in Health and Safety Code Sections 1596.852 and 1596.853.
HANDBOOK BEGINS HERE
(1) Health and Safety Code Section 1596.852 provides in part:
Any duly authorized officer, employee, or agent of the department may, upon presentation of proper identification, enter and inspect any place providing personal care, supervision, and services at any time, with or without advance notice, to secure compliance with, or to prevent a violation of this act, or the regulations adopted by the department pursuant to this act.
(2) Health and Safety Code Section 1596.853 provides in part:
(A) Any person may request an inspection of any child day care facility in accordance with the California Child Day Care Facilities Act by transmitting to the department notice of an alleged violation of applicable requirements prescribed by the statutes or regulations of this state. A complaint may be made either orally or in writing.
(B) The substance of the complaint shall be provided to the licensee no earlier than at the time of the inspection. Unless the complainant specifically requests otherwise, neither the substance of the complaint provided the licensee nor any copy of the complaint or any record published, released, or otherwise made available to the licensee shall disclose the name of any person mentioned in the complaint, except the name of any duly authorized officer, employee, or agent of the department conducting the investigation or inspection pursuant to this chapter.
I Upon receipt of a complaint, the department shall make a preliminary review and, unless the department determines that the complaint is willfully intended to harass a licensee or is without any reasonable basis, the department shall –make an onsite inspection within 10 days after receiving the complaint, where the visit would adversely affect the licensing investigation or he investigation of other agencies, including, but not limited to, law enforcement agencies. In either event, the complainant shall be promptly informed of the department’s proposed course of action.
(D) Upon issuance of a license for a child day care facility or upon revocation, or temporary has occurred, the department shall notify the resource and referral agency funded under section 8210 of the Education Code that jurisdiction.
The resource and referral agency shall be notified of the final resolution.
(2) With the exception of parents seeking local day care service, any other entity specified in subdivision (b) of Section 1596.86 may request that the department provide the notification described in paragraph (1).
(E) When the department substantiates an allegation which it deems to be serious, in a facility funded by the Child Development Division of the State Department of Education pursuant to Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 8200) of Part 6 of the Education Code it shall notify the Child Development Division.
HANDBOOK ENDS HERE
(b) The Department has the authority to interview children or staff, and to inspect and audit child or child care center records, without prior consent.
(1) The licensee shall make provisions for private interviews with any child(ren) or staff member; and for the examination of all records relating to the operation of the child care center.
I The Department has the authority to observe the physical condition of the child(ren), including conditions that could indicate abuse, neglect or inappropriate placement.
NOTE: Authority cited: Section 1596.81, Health and Safety Code. Reference: Sections 1596.72, 1596.73, 1596.81, 1596.852 and 1596.853, Health and Safety Code.
Philosophy and Goals
Through our literature based curriculum we nurture the child’s development with emphasis on communication and celebration of life by exploring the wonders of the world and its many cultures and traditions. We focus on the whole child and provide opportunity for growth through exploration, instruction and experience. Our daily emphasis is on the child’s developmental stages and encouragement of age appropriate activities and social interaction. Our goal is to provide a safe and stimulating atmosphere while meeting the individual needs of each child. Kindergarten readiness is a primary goal of our program and is achieved through our daily activities and curriculum. Our students are prepared emotionally, socially and cognitively for advancement to elementary school.
Admission Policies
We invite parents and children to come visit our school, take a guided tour of the school and meet with our members of staff. After a tour of the facility we will answer any questions that the parents may have regarding their child’s enrollment in to The Secret Garden Preschool.
The following forms must be completed and returned prior to your child’s enrollment at the Secret Garden Preschool:
Notification of Parents’ Rights Form (LIC 995)
Personal Rights Form (LIC613A)
Identification & emergency information (LIC700)
Consent for Emergency information (LIC627)
Child’s Preadmission Health History-Parents Report (LIC 702)
Physician’s Report-Child Care Centers(LIC 701)
Immunization requirements
Compatibility Determination
Prior to admission the director/administrator may meet with parents to discuss the program and the child’s needs to determine if the program meets the child’s needs.
Staffing Ratio
The state requires a 1 : 12 ratio of teachers to preschoolers. The Secret Garden’s ratio is 1 : 6
Programs Offered
The Secret Garden offers a Preschool Program for children two years through five years old. No optional outside services are offered.
Updating Emergency Information
Please notify us if any of your contact information changes, including your address, so that we may update our records.
Sign In/Out Procedure
Parents are required by law to sign their child in and out, recording the time, with a FULL signature (initials are not permissible), in ink. Please notify staff if someone other than a parent will be picking up your child and verify they are listed on the Emergency Information Form (LIC 700).
Schedule Changes, Absences, and Termination of Services
As a courtesy to staff and your child’s well being, if your child will be absent due to illness or vacation we require notification. Any request for changes to the scheduled days or termination of services must be submitted in writing one month in advance. Changes are dependent on availability of space due to state licensing criteria.
Payment Policy
Payment for services must be paid in advance. Tuition for the current month is due on the 1st day of the month. A late fee of $50 is due after the 10th, $75 after the 15th, and $100 after the 25th. Non payment after the 25th may result in termination of services. Statements for monthly services as well as end of the year tax statements can be downloaded directly from Procare.
Late Pick Up Fee
We recommend picking your child up before our 5:30 pm closing time. Our staff has families and commitments and cannot stay past 5:30 pm. Should a child be picked up after 5:30 pm, a per minute fee as indicated on the Fee Schedule will be charged. Please be respectful of our staff and pick your child up on time. For your child’s well being, our policy is that a “full day” is limited to nine hours of care.
Refunds or Credits
Refunds or credits are not issued for days missed due to illness, holidays, vacation, the two weeks the school is closed, or other reasons.
Holidays
The Secret Garden is closed on the following national holidays:
New Years’ Day Martin Luther King’s Birthday
President’s Day Easter Monday
Memorial Day Juneteenth
Labor Day July Fourth
Thanksgiving and Friday Veteran’s Day
Christmas Day
A teacher workday may be scheduled with advance notification to parents.
Closures
The Secret Garden is closed between Christmas and New Year's Day.
Extra Hours and Drop-in Care
Extra hours and drop-in care must be arranged and approved by the director and is limited to availability of space. This time is due and payable on the date of service. Please do not ask staff to provide babysitting services outside of The Secret Garden, as that is against our policy.
Naps
Naps or rest time is provided after lunch. Cots are provided and sheets. Parents must provide a blanket and may include a favorite doll or cuddle toy.
Meals and Snacks
A mid-morning snack is provided for children attending mornings. For those who stay for lunch a hot lunch is provided. A mid-afternoon snack is provided for children attending afternoons. All food is prepared by a member of our staff on site from organic local produce whenever possible. Please inform us of any dietary/allergy needs your child may have. Food may not be brought into school.
Birthdays
Children may celebrate their birthday during a preapproved circle time. Snacks may be provided by parents. Only nut free store bought items please.
Dress Code and Change of Clothing
Children should come to school dressed for play. Shoes should protect their feet and be easy to remove and put on, but should not easily slip off. Shoes with Velcro closures are preferred. Sandals and flip flops are hard to run and climb in and are discouraged. Please provide a change of play clothes which will stay in their cubby. We encourage sand and water play when the weather permits, digging in sand every day, and some art projects can be messy. A good day at school can mean very dirty clothes going home!
Diapers and Toilet Readiness
Parents will provide diapers and wipes. It is our philosophy that toilet readiness is a developmental stage and is not required for admission
Field Trips
Parents will be notified prior to any field trip and permission for said trip obtained in writing. All parents are welcome and encouraged to attend field trips. Children will be transported by private cars and must be in car seats. Examples of field trips are trips to Natural Bridges to see the Monarchs, Point Lobos, a pumpkin patch, or local museums.
Photographs and website
Pictures may be taken of activities and field trips which may be posted to our website. Most posts are password protected to protect the privacy of our families. If you prefer your child’s photograph not be used, please let us know.
Insurance
The Secret Garden provides liability and accident insurance for staff and accidental medical coverage for the children.
Non Discrimination
The Secret garden does not discriminate against anyone due to race, religion, or disability.
Optional Outside Services
The Secret Garden does not offer any optional outside services. We do not use any consultants or special services, or provide supplementary services at this time.
Transportation
The Secret Garden does not offer any type of transportation to or from the preschool.
Special Needs
A needs and service plan for children with special needs will be developed with parents.
Discipline Procedure
It is our policy to use verbal communication with a child when a behavior is unacceptable. Corporal punishment is not permitted or any violation of a child’s personal rights. If the behavior continues, the child will be moved to another space with a teacher where such behavior shall be allowed until the child is able to rejoin the other children. If the child is a danger to him/herself, another child or staff member, the parent will be contacted for a conference. If a child remains a concern or presents a danger to self and or others, care may be discontinued and services terminated. We reserve the right to refuse service on the grounds of safety.
Confidentiality
All information and records obtained from, or regarding to children will be confidential.
Pre-Admission Health History, ID & Emergency Information, Consent for medical Treatment, Physical Exam, Admission Agreement
These required forms are included in this packet and upon completion by parent will be kept in each child’s file.
Parent’s Rights LIC995 and Personal Rights LIC 613A
A copy of each notification is included in this packet and acknowledgment of said notifications shall be kept in each child’s file.
Provisions of Law Regarding Complaints
The local state licensing office for day care or preschool licensing is Community Care Licensing, Department of Social Services, State of California, 2580 N. First St. #300, San Jose CA 95113, Phone: 408-324-2148.
Communicable Diseases
Parents will be notified if children have been exposed to any infectious or communicable diseases. We require parents notify us if a child contracts any infectious or communicable disease. If a child becomes ill at school they will be isolated from other children, a parent notified and expected to pick the child up immediately.
Medical or Dental Emergencies
In the event of an accident the director will evaluate the severity of the injury and determine if 911 should be called. The child’s parents will be notified and informed as to steps taken. All accidents will be documented in writing, describing the type of accident, injury, steps taken and follow up.
Return From Illness and Doctor’s Release Statement
Every child MUST remain at home for at least 24 hours after cessation of the symptoms listed on our Sickness Policy, except in the case of a cold, when he or she must remain home the first two days he or she displays symptoms. If your child contracts a communicable disease a Doctor’s Release Statement is required before returning to school.
Check-Up Requirement
It is a state law that your child has a health check-up prior to enrollment in preschool and within 12 months of attending Kindergarten. It is also required your child be current on required immunizations as stated in the California Health and Safety Code, provided herein.
Medication Policy/LIC 9221
If a child requires prescription medication be administered by staff California LIC Form 9221 must be completed and signed by the parent/legal guardian and administration instructions should be provided. Staff will ensure to follow the aforementioned procedure to create a routing and referral for a Care Plan to be in place prior to admittance into the facility and/or returning to school. All medication must be kept in their original containers, bearing the original prescription label with legible information. Remember to take the medication home daily/weekly, or alternatively, have the pharmacist fill the prescription in two separate containers, one for school and one for home.
IMS Plan: (Chronic condition-long lasting)
Should a child be identified with the following medical needs: Blood-Glucose Monitoring for Diabetic Children, Glucagon Administration, Gastrostomy Tube Care, Emptying an Ileostomy Bag; the incidental medical services procedure will be updated and filed in accordance with California Child Care Licensing regulations. All center staff will receive intermittent health care training on incidental medical services provided. Whenever possible, Center staff will include the child’s family IMS-PO (Incidental Medical Services Plan of Operation) and/or other medical personnel including but not limited to SOP Health/Nutrition/Safe Environments unit, to provide additional support for training.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
The Secret Garden Preschool regards a physically and emotionally safe environment as its highest priority.
HERE IS WHAT THE STAFF WILL DO:
1.Participate in ongoing FIRST AID and CPR training and certification.
2.Provide regular fire and earthquake drills for students.
3.Provide regular opportunities for students to discuss feelings.
HERE IS WHAT THE PARENTS CAN DO:
Provide us with updated and accurate emergency contact information and a complete change of clothing to be kept in your child’s cubbie.
Notification of California State Licensing Rights Section 101200 of the Health Code
(a) The Department pas the inspection authority specified in Health and Safety Code Sections 1596.852 and 1596.853.
HANDBOOK BEGINS HERE
(1) Health and Safety Code Section 1596.852 provides in part:
Any duly authorized officer, employee, or agent of the department may, upon presentation of proper identification, enter and inspect any place providing personal care, supervision, and services at any time, with or without advance notice, to secure compliance with, or to prevent a violation of this act, or the regulations adopted by the department pursuant to this act.
(2) Health and Safety Code Section 1596.853 provides in part:
(A) Any person may request an inspection of any child day care facility in accordance with the California Child Day Care Facilities Act by transmitting to the department notice of an alleged violation of applicable requirements prescribed by the statutes or regulations of this state. A complaint may be made either orally or in writing.
(B) The substance of the complaint shall be provided to the licensee no earlier than at the time of the inspection. Unless the complainant specifically requests otherwise, neither the substance of the complaint provided the licensee nor any copy of the complaint or any record published, released, or otherwise made available to the licensee shall disclose the name of any person mentioned in the complaint, except the name of any duly authorized officer, employee, or agent of the department conducting the investigation or inspection pursuant to this chapter.
I Upon receipt of a complaint, the department shall make a preliminary review and, unless the department determines that the complaint is willfully intended to harass a licensee or is without any reasonable basis, the department shall –make an onsite inspection within 10 days after receiving the complaint, where the visit would adversely affect the licensing investigation or he investigation of other agencies, including, but not limited to, law enforcement agencies. In either event, the complainant shall be promptly informed of the department’s proposed course of action.
(D) Upon issuance of a license for a child day care facility or upon revocation, or temporary has occurred, the department shall notify the resource and referral agency funded under section 8210 of the Education Code that jurisdiction.
The resource and referral agency shall be notified of the final resolution.
(2) With the exception of parents seeking local day care service, any other entity specified in subdivision (b) of Section 1596.86 may request that the department provide the notification described in paragraph (1).
(E) When the department substantiates an allegation which it deems to be serious, in a facility funded by the Child Development Division of the State Department of Education pursuant to Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 8200) of Part 6 of the Education Code it shall notify the Child Development Division.
HANDBOOK ENDS HERE
(b) The Department has the authority to interview children or staff, and to inspect and audit child or child care center records, without prior consent.
(1) The licensee shall make provisions for private interviews with any child(ren) or staff member; and for the examination of all records relating to the operation of the child care center.
I The Department has the authority to observe the physical condition of the child(ren), including conditions that could indicate abuse, neglect or inappropriate placement.
NOTE: Authority cited: Section 1596.81, Health and Safety Code. Reference: Sections 1596.72, 1596.73, 1596.81, 1596.852 and 1596.853, Health and Safety Code.
