When looking for the right fit for your childcare needs, parents often ask these types of questions.
COMMUNICATION – HOW DO YOU COMMUNICATE WITH FAMILIES REGARDING UPCOMING EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES?
For children still in diapers, we will send home a daily sheet indicating diaper changes, feedings, and anything special your child did that day. For special events, we will send home a notice to parents informing them of the special activity.
Each preschool age child has a folder with his/her name on it in their cubby. Please be sure to check the folder on your way out daily for any crafts or activities your child may have done throughout the day This is also our best communication method with parents, as we put important letters and other communication forms in there as well.
OUTDOOR PLAY – HOW OFTEN DOES MY CHILD GO OUTSIDE?
Sunshine and fresh air are an important part of our regular routine and schedule at Caring Castle Childcare. As a rule, the children will have an opportunity to play outdoors every day. However, when the temperature is below 35 degrees, the children will not go outdoors. Please make sure that your child has appropriate outerwear: gloves/mittens, hat, scarf, and boots in order to enjoy the outdoor play. During the summer months, the children may play in the water either with a sprinkler or water table.
Our ECO Friendly playground equipment is made from recycled materials, is non-toxic and also complies with the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s playground safety codes. From the raw materials, to the manufacturing process and even the life of the materials after they are done being used, eco-friendly playgrounds safeguard those who make the playground equipment and those who use the equipment.
WHAT SECURITY MEASURES DO YOU PRACTICE TO KEEP CHILDREN SAFE?
Safety of the children at Caring Castle Childcare is of utmost importance. In addition to strict protocols on drop off, pick up and release of your child only to authorized individuals, we have instituted the following measures of security.
- Outside areas, including play areas, are enclosed with cyclone fencing.
- There is a monitor camera outside of the Center and in the main classroom areas.
- Doors to the Center are locked at all times. Access is gained with a key fob provided to each parent upon enrollment of their child into the center.
MEALS/NUTRITION – DO YOU OFFER SNACKS AND MEALS?
Nutritious snacks will be provided for all children after they reach one year of age. Snacks are served at 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. We are requesting our parents to send lunch for their children – it should be clearly labeled with the child’s name, date, and any special instructions. We will provide a drink for their lunch. The children will have lunch approximately 11:45 a.m. daily.
If your child requires a special diet and will not be able to have the snacks we provide, we ask that you supply snacks to fit their diet. We would also like documentation about the specific dietary restrictions.
Caring Castle Childcare participates in the US Department of Agriculture Adult and Child Food Program. Participation in this program ensures that we provide the children with food that meets the USDA nutritional guidelines. Milk, juices, and water are served with meals and snacks. We ask that everyone upon enrollment please fill out the form for enrollment in this program as it benefits the whole Center.
Candy and soda will not be served in the Center. Please do not send them with the children. In the event of a birthday, please discuss with the Center Director prior to bringing treats in.
Infant/Toddler Meals
(a) A written statement for formula and feeding schedule should be submitted by parent.
(b) New foods will be introduced only after consulting with parents.
(c) Infants 6 months and younger will always be held while taking their bottle.
HOW DO I ENROLL MY CHILD AT THE CARING CASTLE?
We require that you visit our facility prior to enrollment, and encourage you to make an appointment to do so. Contact Caring Castle Childcare at 412-965-2032; 412-884-2400 or email [email protected] to schedule your tour. Upon visiting our center, you will be able to meet your child’s teachers, learn about our programs, and see how the other children interact. Should parents wish to proceed, an application, a completed health form, emergency contact sheet and deposit are required to enroll your child.
The first two weeks of care are considered a trial period. During that time, either party may terminate care without notice. This is to ensure that the childcare relationship is as beneficial to both parties as possible. If the parent wishes to terminate childcare services prior to the close of the 2-week probationary period, the fee for this first two weeks must be paid.