1. Discipline -

The child will be made aware of what he or she is allowed to do and what things are not permissible. I make use of "time-out" for discipline. A warning is given first. If the child persists in disobeying he is placed in "time-out", one minute per year of age. If the child continues misbehaving and become excessively disruptive, the parent shall be called to discuss further action. I understand that different children are at different stages of development and this will be taken into consideration. This policy will be used unless otherwise agreed upon by the parents and myself and put in writing.

2. Nap time

Smaller children will be given a morning and an afternoon nap or rest time. Older children will have an afternoon rest time. I ask that you provide a small, lightweight blanket and a pillow for your child, to be taken home at the end of each week for cleaning. Be sure to mark these items with your child's name. If your child is an infant, please provide a playpen.

3. Play time

I do not feel that the television makes a good sitter. While at times we may watch some children's programs and videos (feel free to bring your child's favorite), we do participate in other activities in order to help develop your child's mind and skills. Reading, drawing and other activities will be included in your child's day.

4. Drop-off and pick-up times

Children can be dropped off anytime after 6:00 a.m. and must be picked up by 5:30 p.m. A $5.00 fee will be charged for each 15-minute time frame that the child is kept over without notice. If you must stay after work for some reason, please call me. If someone else is to pick up your child, I need to hear from you and will require identification. I would like to meet them first if possible. Please call me if your child will be absent.

5. Payment

I charge a flat weekly rate with payment due in advance. I prefer that payment is made on Friday for the following week.  Payment must be made on Monday morning or an additional $5.00 charge will be assessed. Late payment must be made by the end of the week, and caught up or childcare will be suspended. As your child's space is reserved, no refund will be made for days missed. You will not be charged for family vacations if notice is given at least two weeks in advance. On days that I am not able to provide childcare, you will be refunded or credited for that day. If I am taking a vacation, you will be given at least two weeks advance notice so that you can find a sitter. You will not be charged for the time I am gone. Checks are accepted, however, one bounced check will require that you pay cash for 3 months, with a $15.00 service charge for bounced checks.

6. Sick child

Your sick child will be cared for if:
1. He or she does not have a highly contagious disease;
2. temperature is no higher than a low-grade fever;
3. does not require extra care that would interfere with the care of the other children in my charge. You must provide any medicines needed. Your child will also be isolated as much as possible from the others during this time. As a rule, I will not be able to run child to doctor's appointments. Please try to schedule these at other times.

7. Miscellaneous

Bumps and bruises - It seems bumps and bruises are a part of every child's life, especially if they are playing with other kids! I have tried to make my home a safe environment for your child, but accidents will happen, so please understand that occasional minor injuries may happen. I am trained in infant CPR and first aid. If anything significant happens, I will inform you immediately.

Checking Up - It is natural for parents to be concerned about their child. Feel free to call occasionally.

Rates - You will be charged a weekly rate. I reserve the right to periodically review these rates and adjust if necessary, usually semiannually.

Keeping Informed - I try to spend some time with each parent and discuss his or her child's day. Any special highlights or problems will be discussed. I want you to know how your child's day went, to keep you informed. Feel free to ask questions! There may, from time to time, be some situations come up which may require exceptions to the above policies. I will try to discuss them with you and come up with a reasonable, mutually agreeable solution. I will try to work with you! Please try to work with me.