MEDICATION

First Step will administer prescription medication to your child under the following conditions:

Prescription medication is in the original container with the child's name on it.

Our medication authorization form must be completed each day with date, dosage, route, times, and parent signature. Parents need to also sign this same form at the end of each day acknowledging the medication was administered.

Over the counter medications will be administered provided the child's physician completes the following information in writing: your child's name, the date, the medication to be given and for what symptoms or illness, correct dose and route, frequency to be given and the length of time the above information is in effect.

Parents must hand deliver all medications and forms to a staff person to be placed in a secure place out of the child's reach. Medications are not to be left in lunch boxes, backpacks, or diaper bags by parents.

You need to present any health or medical concerns to the nurse. She will also contact you with any questions or concerns.

NUTRITION

We serve a nutritious mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack. Parents are asked to provide a balanced lunch, which should include:

1 portion from the bread group (ex. 2 slices of whole wheat bread)

1 serving from the protein group (meat, poultry, fish, cheese, eggs, or peanut butter)

1 serving from the vegetable and fruit group

1 cup of milk

We are happy to microwave any heated dishes for your child’s lunch. We do provide refrigerators in each room. However, if your child's lunch will stay chilled with a cold pack, please store his lunch box in his cubby. It will be more accessible to him.

We insist that chocolate, candy, or any other sweets be omitted from your child's lunch.

OUTSIDE PLAY

Outside play is a regular and important part of your child's day at First Step. Children are expected ' to participate in outside play and need to bring appropriate clothing to school for the weather. Please do not ask us to exclude your child from outside play due to illness. All children attending our center must feel fit enough to participate in all aspects of the program.

DISENROLLMENT CLAUSE

Should the staff at First Step feel that the needs of your child cannot be properly met without risking the quality of care provided to other children , the parent may be asked to withdraw the child from our program. We would be in close communication with parents during this period; this right will be exercised only after all other options have been explored.

WALKING FIELD TRIPS

Our physical location offers many opportunities to explore. Ourteachers will, on occasion, bring the preschoolers (3-5 year olds) on walks and special outings beyond our playground area, particularly in the nice weather.

VISITING

Our center encourages parents to visit during the day if it is feasible during work hours to do so. This makes the child feel special and facilitates communication between the school and home. We do ask, as a courtesy to our teachers, that if you plan to come at a busy activity or circle time, to be mindful of possible disruptions to the group should your child disengage from the routine. Your child’s teacher would be happy to suggest times of the day which would be optimal for a visit. Parents are also warmly welcome to inquire about their child's day by telephone. Sometimes it can be comforting to hear about a child's morning, especially if it started in e hectic manner.

INCLEMENT WEATHER CLOSINGS

In case of severe weather, you will be notified of school cancellation through radio stations WPRO am 630 and WPRO fm 92.3. Announcements are made throughout the morning. Depending on when we can get through to the station.