A

Parent Handbook 2014

3 Spring Ave, Springfield Lakes 4300 Phone: 073288 5600 Fax: 073288 5611

Email: thelakeselc@gmail.com

Contents Listing
Index Welcome About our Centre Centre Policies & Procedures Settling into the Centre Priority of Access Cultural Diversity Child Care Benefit (CCB) Child Care Tax Rebate Updating Your Details Centre Fees Payment of Fees Outstanding Accounts/Late Collection Fee National Quality Framework Emergency and Evacuation Emergency Care Exclusion of Children Programs and Curriculum Arrivals and Departures Meals Nutrition Nappies Lost Property Absences, Holidays & Withdrawals Rest time Incidents/ Accidents and Trauma Sun Safety Positive Behavior Shows / Special Visitors and Community Participation Working together to increase confidence & Learning Service Support Structure Parent and Visitor Conduct Centre Newsletters Parent Meetings Team Member Recruitment, Selection and Retention Team Member Training and Development Students and Visitors Health and Hygiene Sustainable Practices Immunisation Medication Management of Asthma/Anaphylaxis Unwell Children Illness Exclusion Periods Illness Exclusion Periods Illness Exclusion Periods Conclusion Handbook Sourcing and retrieval Useful Websites Disclaimer

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Welcome
Our team members and management would like to welcome you to The Lakes Early Learning Centre! We trust that your childs experience will feel like an extension of your home. By working together we will provide an environment that promotes quality care and education for your child, a place where they will be accepted for who they are, and a place where laughter and play are cherished and where childrens innate curiosity is captured and given a chance to grow. You are welcome to visit our Centre at any time and we encourage you to spend time talking with your childs teachers. We encourage our families to participate in our curriculum, allowing them to have an insight into their childs day activities. Our child Care centre operate with a strong focus on family values and are designed to be a place where families can form friendships, gain support and advice from parenting experts and link with other services within the community. We will work towards making the transition to our Centre as smooth as possible so both you and your child feel a part of this fantastic learning journey. Thank you once again for choosing us to care for your child, we look forward to a long and happy association with your family.

About our Centre

Our Centre is a privately owned Long Day Care Centre with a two fully qualified Centre Directors who will be on hand to deal with any questions, which may arise, with families and to ensure that the Centre is running to its full potential. We are committed to a holistic approach to learning and this is fostered in an environment that promotes and supports all aspects of a childs development. We aim to provide children in our care with a safe happy and healthy environment, which recognizes the special needs and talents of individual children through the employment of caring, qualified educators and to ensure that all aspects of each childs developmental needs form the basis of our programs. Our Centre is licensed and must comply with the Education and Care Services National law and National Regulations, please note copies of these are available at our Centre at all times. A license for a Centre based service authorizes the approved provider to conduct a child care service at the premises stated in the license. As specified in the National Regulations there are minimum team levels for each group of children and these are as follows:
Room 1: Pink Room 0 15 months: 2 Team Members to a maximum of 8 children 2 Team Members to 12 children

Room 2: Navy Room 24mths 36mths:

Room 3: Lilac Room 30mths - 36mths: 3 Team Members to maximum of 24 children Room 5: Kindergarten 42mths School age: 3 Team Members to a maximum of 30 children Room 6: Purple Room - 42mths 54mths: 2 Team members to 24 Children Room 7: Fuchsia Room 36mths 48mths: 2 Team Members to 16 children Room 8: Orange Room 15 30 months: 3 Team Members to a maximum of 15 children Room 4: School Children: 5yrs 12yrs: 2 Team Member to a maximum of 24 children

Team Members During Rest Periods As per the National Regulations and National Law the following team members arrangements will be made during the hours of 12:00pm and 2:00pm/12.30pm and 1.30pm each day. Children aged 0 2 years = 2 qualified Team Members present at all times, including rest periods. Children aged 2 5 years = 2 qualified Team Members at all times excluding rest periods. During rest periods there will be 1 qualified Team Member in the room and the other Team Member available to be called into the room as required. Our Centre is open 52 weeks per calendar year and is only closed for Gazetted Public Holidays. Our Centre is approved by the Federal Government for the payment of Childcare Benefit Subsidy. The Centre is also registered with the National Quality Framework Process.

Centre Policies and Procedures

The Centres policies and procedures encompass legislative requirements imposed by governing bodies that ensure the approved provider meets the requirements to operate a childrens service. Our policies and procedures are reviewed annually to ensure current trends and legislation are incorporated in the high quality management of the service. Our policy, procedure and team handbooks are also available for your perusal at any time.

Settling Into the Centre

The transition to childcare for the first time or starting at a new childcare Centre can sometimes be very emotional for both the child and their families. All of our Team Members and particularly your childs teachers look forward to supporting your child and their family so they can look forward to coming to our Centre each day. If possible prior visits with your child are a great way to assist your child to become familiar with the Centre, their room and the teachers who will care for them as well as reducing some of the anxiety around separating from parents on their first day. Please speak with your Centre Director to discuss when would be most suitable for you and your child to visit. Please note you are required to stay on Centre premises during the visit, a coffee and a read through our Centre information is available at the Parent Resource Area. On your childs first day it is a good idea to allow plenty of time to settle your child. On arrival, please put away your childs bags, nappies and any other items you bring to the centre where appropriate (if not sure, please ask any Team Member to assist you). If your child is able please assist them to do this themselves, this is a great opportunity to foster their self-help skills. If time permits sit with your child and assist them to transition to the Centre and engage in an activity. Please see any of our Team Members to pass on any messages or instructions for the day as well as giving them an approximate time for you to return to the Centre. When it is time for you to leave, we encourage you to say goodbye to your child and let them know when you will be back, even if your child is upset, say goodbye and please feel free to contact the centre for reassurance regarding your childs day. This will help build trust between you and your child. We discourage parents and families from prolonging their departure as this can be very stressful for your child and often for you too. One of our Team Members can assist by reassuring your child and engage them in another experience as you leave. They will continue to support your child and encourage them to participate in the fun and exciting experiences programmed for the day. Please do not hesitate to phone our Centre to see how your child has settled as many times as you need. It is important that you return when you have said you would, if you are going to be late, please let the Centre know and we will explain this to your child. Separation Anxiety is normal during early childhood and occurs when a child becomes upset when separated from a parent / guardian. Separation anxiety usually occurs from six to eight months of age and can last until about four and a half years of age although it can last longer if the child has had painful separations in their early years. Separation anxiety reflects the childs attempts to hold on to what is safe in a very scary world and it will settle down as the child grows older and more confident.

Priority of Access (For more information www.dest.gov.au)

The Australian Government has Priority of Access Guidelines for allocating places in a long day care Centre. They set out the following three (3) levels of priority: PRIORITY 1 a child at risk of serious abuse or neglect PRIORITY 2 a child of a single parent who satisfies or of parents who both satisfy the work / study / training test PRIORITY 3 any other child

Cultural Diversity
As Australian is a culturally and linguistically diverse nation, we recognize the diversity of all cultures and provide opportunities for all children to develop an understanding of Multiculturalism. Therefore, we aim to help foster in each child an awareness and acceptance of other cultures through integrating multiculturalism in our programs. It is important to understand cultural awareness is not tokenism, but it is incorporated into our program on a daily basis. This can be achieved through providing and offering a range of books, music, cooking, crafts, singing, clothing, play equipment and other subtle means. Where possible, all parent information can be translated into required languages advised by families upon enrolment. The centre will provide the interpretation contact number for families to access if needed.

Child Care Benefit (CCB) and Child Care Tax Rebate (CCR)
Child Care Benefit (CCB) is a payment made by the Commonwealth Government to help families with the cost of quality childcare. A familys eligibility is subject to an income test, which is administered by the Family Assistance Office (FAO).

Most families are also entitled to Child Care Tax Rebate (CCR), which can be paid directly to the centre to further reduce your fees. CCR is paid to families or guardians who are working, studying or training. It is not income tested and the Australian Government will make a payment of 50% for out of pocket childcare costs up to $7,500 a year for each child. It is the responsibility of the parent to register fo CCB. Information forms can be accessed from the Family Assistance Office or cal 13 61 50. With the introduction of the Governments Child Care Management System (CCMS), families will receive a CCB fee reduction only if they have registered with Centrelink, are eligible for CCB, have a formal enrolment at the centre and the centre has received confirmation from the Government pertaining to the percentage of CCB they are eligible. If parents are not eligible for CCB, FULL fees must be paid.

Updating Your Details

It is extremely important for the welfare of each child that the Centre maintain current enrolment details. For this reason parents are requested to fill out new enrolment forms at the commencement of each calendar year. In addition to this it is important that changes such as contact details, workplace, marital status, and people authorised to collect your child, allergies, immunization, medical management plans etc, be PROMPTLY advised to the Centre Director in writing. This is of the utmost importance to all families within our Centre.

Centre Fees
Enrolment Confirmation Fee: $40.00per child (non-refundable)
Deposit: From the beginning of the first week, fees are payable one week in advance.

FEE STRUCTURE - As of 6th Jan 2014

Room Standard cost per day/per child Cost per day/per child via direct deposit

All Children 0-3 years All children over 3 years After School Care only Before School Care only Attending Before AND After School Care Vacation Care

$77 $73 $23.00 $16.50

$75 $71 NA NA

Before School: $ 13.50 After School: $ 20.00 Total per day : $ 33.50 $50.00

Payment of Fees
Payment of your child care fees are required two weeks in advance and MUST be paid by the FIRST DAY of the week your child attends. Our Centre provides all meals to the children in our care as an inclusion in the fees. Our service is a cashless Centre. Therefore our preferred payment methods are Direct Deposit or Eftpos. If you choose to pay using our convenient Direct Deposit method, fees can be paid on a weekly or fortnightly basis from your nominated bank account and credited to your child/rens account when received into the Centres bank account. Payments via Direct Deposit or Eftpos will need to be arranged with the Centre Director. Receipts will be issued on a weekly basis reflecting the current outstanding amount in accordance with our Centres fee policy. Centre Bank Details are:

National Australia Bank.

Account Name: MCJEJ Pty Ltd

BSB: 084 209

Account: 824 421 086

Outstanding Accounts/Late Collection Fee

It is a condition of enrolment at our centre that fees are paid up to date. Fees that are not paid up to date will occur a late payment fee of $5.00 per week. The centre reserves the right to terminate a child's position should fees fall into arrears. If you are experiencing financial difficulties please consult the director and she will endeavor to assist you. If you are experiencing financial difficulties please consult your Centre Director to assist you.

A late fee of $1 per minute per child and Team Member payable after the first 5 minutes or part thereof incurred for parents who do not collect their children by the Centres closing time. Should this happen you must pay the calculated amount either before leaving the Centre on that day or before your child attends their next enrolled day.

National Quality Framework

The National Quality Framework is a Government initiative which will set a new National Quality Standard creating greater consistency for early Childhood education and care services across Australia. This initiative will improve educator to child ratios in services, increased skills and qualifications, new regulations and quality rating system which will help you to make informed choices about the education and care you choose for your child. Our Centres aim is to exceed the National Quality Standard across all areas of our service and our Quality Improvement plan is in place to show what is happening in our centre to achieve this. This will look at areas such as educational programs and practice, childrens health and safety, physical environment, staffing arrangements, relationships with children and collaborative partnerships with families and communities. To find out more information in regard to National Quality Framework please access the website: www.acecqa.gov.au

Emergency and Evacuation

Emergency evacuation drills are held on a monthly basis at our Centre to ensure a thorough understanding of emergency procedures and to demonstrate how safety procedures may be applied in an emergency situation. Our drills cover such possibilities as fire, bomb threats, floods/storms, blackouts, smog episodes and disgruntled persons attack. It is important that team member use teaching opportunities and discuss emergencies and evacuations with the children in both a formal and informal manner. Children's safety is paramount. This Centre has strict policies dealing with children's safety. ALL EXTERNAL gates and doors are locked. The sandpit is covered each night and raked each morning and the outdoor equipment is checked daily. Children are expected to follow basic rules for safety in and around the Centre. We would appreciate parents assistance in ensuring children's clothes are chosen with safety in mind. Our Centre has up to date emergency plans in place and ensures that all of our Centre team member are trained in what to do when there is an emergency. Fire extinguishers and fire blankets are placed strategically throughout the Centre. Each child is identified during an evacuation and an attendance record is taken. This highlights why it is so important your child is signed in and out every day so we can ensure your childs safety in the event of an evacuation. All persons on the premises during an evacuation must participate in the evacuation and must follow the direction given by our Centre team member.

Emergency Care
If an emergency occurs and the center experiences more children than the maximum number of children prescribed for the group, emergency care provisions will be executed. This will occur only if the Centre is providing Emergency Care. Should this occur a notice will be clearly displayed and should you have any further questions, please see our Centre Director.

Exclusion of Children
The Centre reserves the right to exclude a child or family from the Centre to protect the Team Members, Children and Families enrolled at the service. Child/ren or families will be excluded from the Centre under the following circumstances: Failure to pay outstanding fees after two weeks. The child had an infectious illness that is within the exclusion periods listed below. Non-Immunised children are advised to be excluded from the Centre when an infectious disease occurs. Inappropriate or abusive behaviour from a parent toward children or a Team Member in the Centre or a child toward team or other families and children within the Centre. The Director reserves the right to ask a parent and child to vacate the premises when excessive negative behaviour (verbal or physical) is displayed when in attendance at the Centre. This policy applies to Team Members who display this behavior with cliental and other members of the team. Excessive deformation of the children, Team Members, the Licensee and the Centre. Excessive inappropriate, aggressive, abusive or humiliating behavior from a child toward children and Team Members at the Centre. Our aim as early childhood professionals is to offer a caring, educational and safe environment for all children. In the

event of a child with extreme behavioral difficulties, where other children and Team Members are continually at risk the following procedures will be followed prior to exclusion as the last resort. Observations are taken. Open discussions between parents and relevant Team Members. Behaviour Guidance program initiated. Observe and evaluate the Behaviour Guidance program for the individual child over a reasonable time frame. Further discussions with parents. If progress is not being made contact the Office of Early Childhood Care and Education for advice.

Programs and Curriculum

Our experienced educators are dedicated professionals who pride themselves on their ability to guide each childrens individual learning journey in accordance with the early Years Learning Framework Guidelines, allowing each child the best start for their future. A Curriculum is displayed in each room for you to view, please take time to discuss this with your childs Lead Educator. Our programs reflect planned experiences from observations of children and also child initiated experiences. Our programs are flexible and adaptable to meet the individual and group interests, talents and abilities. Our qualified educators plan experiences which develop childrens skills in all developmental areas and are part of the Early Years Learning Framework. This framework puts childrens learning at the core and comprises of three inter -related elements: Principles, Practice and Learning Outcomes. All three elements are fundamental to early childhood pedagogy and curriculum decision-making. Fundamental to the Federal Governments framework is a view of childrens lives as characteristics by Belonging, Being and Becoming. The framework conveys the highest expectations for all childrens learning from birth to five years and through the transitions to school. It communicates these expectations through the following five Learning Outcomes: Children have a strong identity Children are well connected with and contribute to their world Children have a strong sense of well being Children are confident and involved learners Children are effective communicators

Play activities planned by our educators allow children to naturally develop and have the opportunity to guide their own learning. Activity outcomes and individual observations on your child are documented in your childrens files to assist in extending their skills and abilities. Children have the opportunity for both indoor and outdoor play as part of each groups routin e. The outdoor area is an essential part of the learning environment for children. All age groups utilise our specifically designed playgrounds to test their co-ordination, balance, skills and strength. Working in partnership with families, our educator s use the learning outcomes to guide their planning for childrens learning. In order to engage children actively in learning, our educators identify the childrens strengths and interests, choose appropriate teaching strategies and design the learning environment. Children have the opportunity for both indoor and outdoor play as part of each rooms routine. Routines allow time for individual, small and large group play. Childrens language and literacy skills are further developed during this time wit h social interactions that involves children in storytelling, drama, poems and games. Music also plays a large part in these sessions as children are able to experiment with dancing, singing and exercising their bodies.

Arrivals and Departures

Each child must be signed in and out of the centre everyday that they attend. This is a legal requirement that we, must follow. These records are used in case of emergencies and the calculation of the Child Care Benefit (CCB). If a child is away, ill or on holidays the corresponding days must be signed by the parents/ guardians. Please notify the Director, Lead Educator or Assistant Educator of your arrival. You are encouraged to stay and play with your child. Most children go through a stage of 'Separation Anxiety', when they will become somewhat distressed at your leaving. We understand that this can be a heart wrenching time; however experience has shown that children settle quite quickly after parents depart. May we suggest that you always say goodbye, tell them you are coming back, and leave promptly. If your child does not settle, we will contact you via telephone. You are welcome to call the Centre for reassurance, any time as often as you like. We expect an authorized person to collect your child each day. Only when prior arrangements have been made with the Director will children be allowed to go home with another person. Children must be signed out daily. Please check notice boards and your child's information pocket for important notices. Photo identification will be requested if the person or persons collecting your child is not known to the employees of the Centre. In the event that child has not been collected 15minutes after closing time then the parents / guardians will be contacted on the emergency telephone numbers provided. If the child has still not been collected 30 minutes after closing time the staff will follow the Department of Communities Abandoned Child Procedures including contact the Child Protection and Crisis Centre 24hour service.

Meals
All meals are included in the fees charged. The Centre will provide nutritional meals. Children will be provided Morning Tea, Lunch & Afternoon Tea. Weekly menus are posted on the notice board in the front reception area. If your child has intolerance to any particular foods or cultural requirements, please ensure you have stated this in your childs enrolment form and consulted the Director and Lead Educator. Our menus are evaluated and reviewed on a regular basis and ensure they meet the requirements for the childrens recommended daily intake. Preparation of all food is in accordance with the hygiene requirements of the Logan City Council Community Health Branch.

Nutrition
We believe that good nutrition is a way of life. A childs diet should contain a balance of all the food groups. It is important that we are meeting the nutritional, social, cultural and educational needs of the children in our care. We ask that, where possible, treat food be left at home. Nut allergies are an extremely common food allergy in children. To ensure the safety of all children in our care we have implemented a nut reduced zone at our Centre. We ask that you keep foods containing any type of nuts (including peanut butter, nutella, nuts etc) for home only. If you are concerned about what foods your child is encouraged to bring to our Centre, please see one of our Team Members who will be happy to discuss this with you. We also have information available in our Parent Resource Area

which you are welcome to peruse. Dont forget that water is an ideal drink for children and is available during inside and outside time. You may also wish to send a water bottle along with your child each day.

Nappies
Parents are required to provide sufficient disposable nappies for each day for all children who are not toilet trained.

Lost Property
The Centre will aim to take every precaution to prevent lost property. Unfortunately items can go missing from time to time. The Centre will keep any lost property together and make it available at the Centre for families to search for any missing items. If items are still uncollected after a period they will be donated to a local charity.

Absences, Holidays & Withdrawals

Families receiving Child Care Benefit are eligible to take up to 42 days absences per financial year. Any days taken after this period will be charged at the full daily fee as Child Care Benefit does not apply. Families are still required to make payment on all booked days regardless of attendance status, this encompasses the following- public holidays, sick days, rostered days off etc. Two week's written notice is required if you intend to terminate your childs enrolment. If you are unable to provide the Centre with this, two week's fees will be charged to your final account.

Rest Time
We provide quiet time for our children to regroup after a busy morning of fun and learning. This is a requirement as per National Quality Standards for all programs in appropriate circumstances, to allow for supervised rest periods for all children. If our children do not sleep, they will be supplied with quiet activities for them to use on their beds.

Incidents/Accidents and Trauma

The Centre aims to provide a safe and secure environment. In the unlikely event an accident/incident, trauma or emergency involving a child, the Centre will immediately attempt to contact the parents. Failing this, persons recorded on the enrolment form for emergency contact will be notified. In the event that none of these people are available or prove to be not possible, the Centre reserves the right to call a doctor or ambulance for treatment. ALL COSTS INCURRED IN EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT WILL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PARENTS.

Sun Safety
It is a requirement of your childs enrolment to provide a shady hat for your child and to ensure you have applied sunscreen before bringing your child to the Centre. Our Team Members are cautious about allowing children to play in the sun for long periods of time. Our programs are arranged so that outdoor play will occur as much as possible in the sheltered area and the cooler parts of the day. Sunscreen is reapplied at various times t hroughout your childs day to ensure your child is well protected from the sun. FOR YOUR CHILD TO PLAY IN THE OUTDOOR AREA A HAT IS A REQUIREMENT.

Positive Behaviour Guidance

Communication between Team Members and parents is vital in the continued emotional, educational and physical development of each child. As such it is imperative that any changes in behaviour be discussed and documented. (Refer to positive behaviour guidance policy). Appropriate behaviour is positively reinforced and role modeled by Team Members. Inappropriate behaviour will be discussed with each child and causes of inappropriate behaviour will be acknowledged. All childrens feelings of anger, frustration and jealousy will be acknowledged and accepted. Children need to be encouraged to empathize with others. Children are encouraged to use language to discuss ideas, activities, difficulties and problems; to work within a group to develop appropriate social skills. Childrens opinions are valued.

Thinking time will be discussed with the Director and inappropriate behaviours include biting (See biting procedure) will be addressed. Biting incidents will be monitored and the Centre will act in the prevention. The Centre exclusion policy may be enforced.

Shows, Special Visitors and Community Participation

We have a number of special shows / visitors that come to our Centre each year. These include police, dentists, magicians, reptiles etc. Any planned shows are outlined in the Parent Newsletter for you prior to the day. Our Centre also encourages participation from local schools and training organisations. If a special visit to the Centre is required by a health care professional (speech therapist, inclusion support therapist, health care worker etc) during the year, discussion and permission will be sought from the childs parent / guardian. Should you have any concerns about your child, please see the Team Members in your childs room. All shows and visitors are under constant Team Member and Centre Director supervision.

Working together to increase confidence and Learning

Children are encouraged to develop social skills that will allow them to resolve conflicts and meet their needs without the use of aggressive or destructive behaviours. Children are encouraged to respect themselves and others. When educators guide a childs behaviour they aim to provide the child with clear guidelines as to why a particular behaviour is unacceptable. Children are given realistic limits to follow while they are in care. Children at times run into a roadblock or two. This is where communication is vital to solving these problems. Our educators are here to ensure that your child is happy and healthy in their care. If there is a problem that arises that you feel you need to resolve with our educators, then please let us know. All grievances will be taken seriously and our best effort will always be forth coming. All outcomes will be discussed with the parent who is concerned. Our grievance policy is displayed in the centre foyer. EDUCATORS APPRECIATE IT WHEN PARENTS: Help their children understand that learning is important Set expectations for learning, by taking into account their childs ability Show an interest in what their child is learning and what is happening at the centre Remember that at this age, playing is learning too! Read the memos and information sheets that are sent home with their child Take note of important dates on the calendar

If you have any concerns regarding the care of your child, please discuss them with your child's Lead Educator or the Director. In the unlikely event that you have a complaint or concern with regard to a Team Member or the Centre, please advise the Director and the Director will address the matter promptly.

Service Support Structure

We welcome feedback from our families on the standard of care provided at our Centre. Should you have any concerns or require and assistance, please follow our support structure below. Partnerships between team member and families are crucial for positive outcomes for our children. We will always try to do our best, and with your help we can work as partners to provide the best possible care for your child. Room Lead Educator If you would like further information or you would like the matter taken further, please contact our Centre Director. Centre Director If you would like further information or you would like the matter taken further, please contact The Lakes Early Learning Centre, Centre Director.

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Centre Approved Provider MCJEJ Pty Ltd If you would like further information or you would like the matter taken further, please contact the Office for Early Childhood Education and Care. Regulatory Authority (please speak to your Centre Director for a phone number)

Parent and Visitor Conduct

It is expected that families using our Centre and associated visitors demonstrate patience and courtesy at all times. Our team member and management endeavour to provide the children with positive behaviour role models. We will not tolerate inappropriate language or behaviour at the Centre at any time. Smoking is not permitted at the Centre or in the car park. The car park is for team member parking and for families dropping off or collecting children. Please be thoughtful, especially during peak times. We have parent, children and team member codes of conduct that must be adhered to at all times.

Centre Newsletters
Every 8 weeks our Centre provides all families with a Centre Newsletter, these will be emailed to all our families, if you do not have email it will be placed in your childs pocket. Our newsletter gives information relating to the Centre, policies etc as well as news and updates to ensure that all families are kept up to date with Centre activities. Each room also provides information on room activities, special events and birthdays. We also provide great food and craft / art recipes for you to try with your child at home.

Parent Committee
Our Centre encourages participation in parent committee meetings where possible. Our Parent Committee Meetings are held once every 16 weeks or so and a suitable time will be established prior to the conclusion of the previous meeting. A meeting agenda will be displayed at the Centre prior to the meeting to facilitate involvement by those families otherwise unable to attend. Our Parent Committee also conducts several fundraisers over the year. These funds go towards subsidising educational shows for the children and funding the childrens End of Year Celebrations.

Team Member Recruitment, Selection and Retention

Children need to develop trusting relationships with team member. When devising the Centres roster we consider the continuity of care for each child. When team member are on leave we endeavor to advise parents/ guardians and children and if possible use team member which are already familiar to our Centre. Team member meetings are conducted regularly and each Team Member is encouraged to attend. We encourage team member to use this forum to discuss any suggestions or to raise any concerns they may have. We promote an environment of respect, value each Team Members input and endeavour to create a dedicated team of early childhood professionals.

Team Member Training and Development

A quality program relies upon Team Members having a thorough knowledge of current theory and practice in early childhood. We continually work toward developing and implementing formal programs for Team Member orientation, training and development, including external training and education as well as in house professional development sessions. Our investment in team member training and development ensures that our current and future skill requirements meet legal obligations and assist individual career development. We ensure that at least one (1) Team Member with the prescribed first aid competency is present at the Centre at all times.

Students and Visitors

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We welcome the opportunity to share our knowledge with students and volunteers and seize the opportunity to learn new skills from them too! All students and volunteers are required to undergo suitability screening by the Commission for Children and Young People (suitability card, which is to be displayed at all times). All students and volunteers will be interviewed and have orientation visits supervised by our Centre. Our students and volunteers will also be asked to sign that they have read, understood and will abide by our Student and Visitors Handbook. All students and volunteers will be supervised by our senior team member and will not be left alone to care for children under any circumstances.

Health and Hygiene

Strict hygiene procedures are implemented at the Centre. Good health and hygiene habits such as washing hands on arrival and departure, before and after play and eating, after toileting, flushing toilets, using tissues and not sharing food and drinks are encouraged, implemented and role modelled by Team Members. Toys, play equipment, toilets and change areas are constantly cleaned. Children's sheets must be placed in a drawstring sheet bag to prevent cross infection. Please wash your children's hats and sheets at least weekly.

Sustainable Practices
At our centre, our educators and children work together to learn about and promote the sustainable use of resources and to develop and implement sustainable practices. Our centre has a environmental startagy which consistently implemented at the centre. This can include recycling, use of recycled resources, energy efficiency, water conservation and many more.

Immunization
This Centre actively encourages all parents to immunize their children. For the health and safety of all children in the Centre we ask that you present your child's immunization schedule upon enrolment and keep their immunisation up to date. Most common childhood diseases are contagious. If an outbreak of an illness should occur, children who are NOT immunised will be excluded from the Centre, until the outbreak has passed.

Medication
Although our Team Members have first aid certificates, they are not medically trained. If it is necessary that a child be given medication during Centre operation, the following procedures are required to be followed: All medications to be administered must be accompanied by a doctor's letter stating the date, child's name, name of drug, time to be given, and the dosage. These details must be provided to the Lead Educator where a medication form must be written out for EACH DAY the medication is to be given. The medications must be given to your child's Lead Educator and they will be kept in a locked cupboard.

Management of Asthma/Anaphylaxis
Nebulizers / Volumatics will only be administered with your Doctors written consent. Medications will not be administered more often than 4 hourly. Parents are asked to demonstrate to team member, with the child, the procedure before the initial dose. In the case of a child susceptible to an acute asthma attack, medication may be permanently left at the Centre. We have encouraged parents to speak with their doctor to discuss an asthma management plan, which includes regular review. A Medical Management Plan will be required upon your childs enrolment outl ining the procedure required if your child experiences anaphylaxis. These plans will be reviewed by all team members in the service as part of the risk management assessment of the centre

Unwell Children
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A child who is unwell cannot participate fully in their day. We encourage parents to keep children who are unwell at home as it is more comfortable for your child as well as ensuring that there is little opportunity for other children to become unwell too. If your child does become unwell whilst in our care we will follow the steps below: We will remove your child from the group (to ensure the other children do not become sick if the illness is infectious) We will contact the parent / guardian and request that your child be picked up as soon as possible If we are unable to make contact, our Centre Director will use their discretion in deciding to seek medical attention We will complete an Illness In Care Report for Centre records We will complete a Treating Doctors Report to be provided to the medical practitioner We will request the completed Treating Doctors Report or Medical Clearance Letter be returned prior to your child returning to our Centre Our Centre will, at all times, maintain a clear and concise record of both team member and child illnesses as they occur at our Centre.

Illness Exclusion Periods

Parents must inform the Centre Director if their child has been exposed to any infectious diseases for the safety of children, Team Members and pregnant mothers. Children who are ill will be excluded from the Centre. Centre fees must be paid while children are sick, and fees that are paid indefinitely will hold a child's position. A doctors certificate wi ll be requested for re-admittance, especially if the child has been suffering from a contagious illness or disease. If a child suddenly becomes ill while in attendance at the Centre, he or she will be placed in a calming area of the centre absent from the group and parents or other contact persons will be notified. Recommended minimum exclusion periods for infectious conditions for schools, pre-schools and child care Centres are as follows:
Condition Amobebiasis histolytica) Campylobacter Candidiasis Chickenpox (Varicella) (Entamoeba Exclusion of Case Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 hours Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 hours See Thrush Exclude until all blisters have dried. This is usually at least 5 days after the rash first appeared in unimmunized children and less in immunized children. Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclude until the discharge from the eyes has stopped unless doctor has diagnosed a noninfectious conjunctivitis. Excluded until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 hours. Excluded until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 hours Exclude until medical certificate of recovery is received following at least 2 negative throat swabs, the first swab not less than 24 hours after finishing a course of antibiotics followed by another swab 48 hour later See Rubella Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 hours Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclude until all blisters have dried Exclude until the person has received appropriate antibiotic treatment for at least 4 days Exclusion is NOT necessary if effective treatment is commenced prior to the next day at child care Exclusion of Contacts Not Excluded Not Excluded

CMV (Cytomegalovirus Infection) Conjunctivitis

Any child with an immune deficiency (for example, leukaemia) or receiving chemotherapy should be excluded for their own protection. Otherwise, not excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded

Cryptosporidium Infection Diarrhoea (no organism identified) Diphtheria

Not Excluded Not Excluded Exclude contacts that live in the same house until cleared to return by appropriate health authority

German measles Giardiasis Glandular fever (Mononucleosis, EBV infection) Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) Head Lice (Pediculosis)

Not excluded Not excluded Not excluded Not excluded Not excluded

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Hepatitis A

Hepatitis B Hepatitis C Herpes simplex (cold sores, fever blisters)

Human Immunodeficiency (HIV/AIDS) Hydatid Disease Impetigo (school sores)

Virus

Influenza and influenza-like illness Legionnaires Disease Leprosy Measles

(i.e. the child doesnt need to be sent home immediately if head lice are detected.) Exclude until a medical certificate of recovery is received, but not before seven days after the onset of jaundice Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclusion is not necessary if the person is developmentally capable of maintaining hygiene practices to minimize the risk of transmission. If the person is unable to comply with these practices they should be excluded until the sores are dry. Sores should be covered by a dressing where possible. Exclusion is NOT necessary. If the person is severely immunocompromised, they will be vulnerable to other peoples illnesses. Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclude until appropriate antibiotic treatment has commenced. Any sores on exposed skin should be covered with a watertight dressing. Exclude until well Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclude until approval to return has been given by appropriate health authority Exclude for 4 days after the onset of the rash.

Not excluded

Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded

Not Excluded

Not Excluded Not Excluded

Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded Immunized and immune contacts are not excluded. Non-immunised contacts of a case are to be excluded from child care until 14 days after the first day of the appearance of rash in the last case, unless immunized within 72 hours of first contact during the infectious period with the first case Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded

Meningitis (bacterial) Meningococcal Infection Molluscum contagiosum Mumps Norovirus Parvovirus infection (fifth disease, erythema infectiosum, slapped cheek syndrome) Pertussis Respiratory Syncytial virus Ringworm/tinea Roseola Ross River virus Rotavirus infection

Exclude until well and has received appropriate antibiotics Exclude until appropriate antibiotic treatment has been completed Exclusion is NOT necessary Excluded for nine days after onset of swelling Excluded until there has not been a loose bowel motion or vomiting for 48 hours Exclusion is NOT necessary

Rubella (German Measles) Salmonella Infection Scabies Scarlet fever School Sores

See Whooping Cough Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclude until the day after appropriate antifungal treatment has commenced Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclusion is NOT necessary Children are to be excluded from the Centre until there has not been a loose bowel motion or vomiting for 24 hours Exclude until fully recovered or for at least four days after the onset of the rash Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 hours Exclude until the day after appropriate treatment has commenced See Streptococcal sore throat See Impetigo

Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded

Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded

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Shigella infection Streptococcal sore throat Thrush (candidiasis) Toxoplasmosis Tuberculosis (TB) Typhoid, Paratyphoid Varicella Viral gastroenteritis (viral diarrhea)

Warts Whooping Cough (pertusis)

Exclude until there has not been a loose bowel motion for 24 hours Exclude until the person has received antibiotic treatment for at least 24 hours and feels well Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclude until medical certificate is produced from an appropriate health authority Exclude until medical certificate is produced from appropriate health authority See Chickenpox Children are to be excluded from the Centre until there has not been a loose bowel motion or vomiting for 24 hours Exclusion is NOT necessary Exclude until five days after starting appropriate antibiotic treatment of for 21 days from the onset of coughing

Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded Not Excluded Not excluded unless considered necessary by public health authorities Not excluded unless considered necessary by appropriate health authorities Not Excluded

Worms

Exclusion not necessary if treatment has occurred

Not Excluded Contacts that live in the same house as the case and have received less than three doses of pertussis vaccine are to be excluded from the Centre until they have had five days of an appropriate course of antibiotics. If antibiotics have not been taken, these contacts must be excluded for 21 days after their last exposure to the case while the person was infectious. Not Excluded

Government Approved Kindergarten Program

The Lake Early Learning Centre has always believed in the quality of providing the 4-5 year age group with a qualified four year trained early childhood teacher. We are definitely embracing the Governments commitment to all children in the year prior to Prep having access to programs run by a qualified teacher. Since January 2013, we have been approved by the QLD Government to offer a Kindergarten program delivered by a qualified 4 year trained early childhood teacher for 40 weeks a year, for children in the year prior to Prep. The Lakes Early Learning Centre Kindergarten teacher has a minimum Bachelor of Education. The Lakes Early Learning Centre runs a program that is based on the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines (2009) (QKLG) which caters for learning and development areas of: Identity, Connectedness, Well Being, Active Learning and Communicating. The Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines are based on the Early Years Learning Framework, helps teachers to develop quality learning programs for children in the Kindergarten year (the year prior to Prep). It also helps centres meet the National Quality Standards for educational programs. The Guideline builds connections between what children already know or can do, their learning at Kindergarten and future learning in Prep. For further information visit the Queensland Studies Authority websitewww.qsa.qld.edu.au and see the attached leaflet. The Centre provides a transition statement that is created to build a shared and accurate picture of the childs learning. This involves educators, families and the child to plan focused discussion on the childs learning. A printed copy of the yearly transitional statement is given to families to pass onto the school. The transition statement summarizes a childs learning, recognizing that childrens learning is fluid, particularly as they transition to a new setting, and that each learning and development area describes a range of key focuses and significant learnings. The transition statement: focuses on communicating about childrens motivations, strengths and higher -order skills, understandings and learning dispositions; is recognized as a snapshot in time given that childrens learning is fluid at this age; includes information contributed by and documented with children, parents, carers and educators; is based on information gathered throughout the year in informal and formal ways and in a variety of learning contexts through normal day to day activities, conversations and interactions; includes information about the childs learning in each of the learning and development areas; is written using positive plain language that parents and carers can easily understand;

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describes the level of support the child requires in familiar and/or new situations; includes information about the kindergarten service, teacher and contact information; Includes information about the childs attendance history and relevant family information. Should you require any more information The Queensland Government website has a number of fact sheets available to down load.

Conclusion
We hope you and your child experience the difference and we thank you for allowing The Lakes Early Learning Centre to provide you with highest quality care and education. Please remember that this is your Centre. Your support is vital! Please let us know if there is anything contained in our parent handbook that you have concerns with or if you feel there are any areas that require additional information. We thank you for your support and interest; we look forward to getting to know you and your child during your enrolment in our Centre.

Handbook Sourcing and retrieval

This Parent Handbook has been written in conjunction with Team Member, Family and Management Consultation and Review All items are referenced to the company policies and families are encouraged to review the company policy folder st regularly. Any revision or updates made to the company polices will be reflected in this Parent Handbook. Reviewed 1 January 2012.

Keeping in touch and working together is the best way to ensure a high quality education for your children, and to help ensure their success not only in the centre and the early years, but also life.

Useful Resources
www.careforkids.com.au

www.mychild.gov.au : www.deewr.gov.au : www.centrelink.gov.au :

www.acecqa.gov.au :

DISCLAIMER
Whilst every care has been taken in the preparation of this booklet, the Centre operator, The Lakes Early Learning Centre and all employees thereof, accept no liability for any inaccuracy or omission. The information contained in this Parent Handbook is given in good faith. The Centre owners reserves the right to make alterations to the information contained in this booklet from time to time when deemed appropriate.

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