Delaware County Intermediate Unit Early Head Start/Head Start Program (Center Based/Home Based Program Services)

Every child deserves a Head Start

Parent Handbook 2020-2021

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Table of Contents Table of Contents Welcome Program Location EHS/HS Program Team Program Governance DCIU Mission Statement Policy Council Policy Council Structure DCIU EHS/HS Policy Council Parent Committees Parent /Community Concern Procedure Parent/Community Concern Request Form Center Arrival and Departure Policy Program Closing Information Student Safety Active Supervision/Video Surveillance Parent Responsibilities Parent / Family Opportunities Volunteers Parent/Volunteer Code of Conduct Failure to Comply Code of Conduct The Creative Curriculum

Home Visits and Parent/Teacher Conferences Discipline Policy Transition Activities Bridge Crossing Family Engagement and Services Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Prevention and Early Intervention Health Information to Remember Guidelines Due to COVID-19 School Requirements for COVID -19 Incidents / Illness Exclusion from School Exclusion from School Criteria (short list) Suspected Child Abuse / Neglect Reporting Family Support for Mental Health Care Plan for Sensitive Medical Conditions Safety Practices

2 3 4 5 6 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 15 16 17 18 19 20 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28-29 30 31 32 33 34 35 35 36 36

DCIU EHS/HS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Also, as in accordance to 45 CFR 1302.90(b)(6), current and former EHS and HS parents receives preference for employment vacancies for which they are qualified. Application instructions and postings for all positions are located on the DCIU Website, www.dciu.org, under Employment Information/Job Opportunities. All Applicants must complete the application on the DCIU Talent ED Recruit and Hire, https://dciu.cloud.talentedk12.com/hire/index.aspx, and attach/upload the required documents to your account within the designated posting period.

Approved May 10, 2019 by Katherine Meehan, Esq. for Michael Puppio DCIU Solicitor DCIU Board Approved June 5, 2019

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Welcome Dear Families,

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the DCIU Early Head Start / Home Based/ Head Start family. As parents, you are your child’s first and primary teacher. We at EHS/HB/HS simply help you along that journey by providing rich and rewarding experiences for both you and your child. Our program strongly encourages parent participation in all the activities we offer since we realize that parent involvement is fundamental to your child’s overall success. During the current COVID-19 pandemic, we have had to change how some of this participation will occur. Our ultimate goal is to keep our students, families, and staff safe. With that in mind, the DCIU has developed a Health and Safety Plan which can be found on the DCIU website (www.dciu.org) by clicking on the DCIU-DCTS Health and Safety Plan. During the current COVID event, parents may not enter the buildings to drop off or pick up their children or volunteer in our classrooms due to health and safety reasons. This procedure will be in effect until further notice. There are still, however, opportunities for parents to participate and to earn volunteer hours in other ways. These include attending a workshop and/or Parent Committee Meeting (which may be virtual), completing SPARCS take-home activities with your child, and working on the successful completion of family goals with your FSW. DCIU EHS/HS/HB will be offering workshops, trainings, activities, and special events for families during this program year (some of which will be virtual.) You will be notified of these events through email, flyers, parent newsletters, and Parent Committee meetings. We hope to resume in-class volunteer hours for parents and community partners when it is safe to do so. At that point in time, our goal is to ask Head Start and Early Head Start families to volunteer 4 hours each month. Your volunteer effort helps EHS/HB/HS reach its Non-federal share dollar amount needed to sustain our program. This Parent Handbook was developed as a resource to ensure that you and your child have the information needed to have a successful experience in our program. If you have additional questions, please reach out using the contact information included in this handbook.

Once again, we WELCOME YOU to another great year at DCIU Early Head Start, Home Based & Head Start!!

Sincerely, DCIU EHS/HS/HB Administration and Staff

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Program Locations Head Start/Early Head Start

• Aston Early Childhood Center Madison Regional

100 Crozerville Road 200 East 5th Street Aston, PA 19014 Chester, PA 19013 610-938-9000 x 2575 610-938-9399 x 6801

• Chester Township Regional Sharon Hill 2730 Bethel Road 1016 School Street Chester, PA 19013 Sharon Hill, PA 19079

610-494-0467 610-938-2845 ext. 6350

• CTE Folcroft 701 Henderson Road Folcroft, PA 19032 610-583-7620 x 3455 Early Head Start Partnership Programs

• Apple Pie Christian Academy The Children’s Garden 18 East 8th Street 600 MacDade Blvd. Chester, PA 19013 Collingdale, PA 19023

610-447-1222 ext. 308 610-461-2303

• Smart From the Start CTE Folcroft 4 Rockbourne Road 701 Henderson Road Clifton Heights, PA 19018 Folcroft, PA 19032 484-461-4664 610-583-7620 x 3455 Pre-K Counts Program

• Aston Early Childhood Center Evans Elementary School 100 Crozerville Road 900 Bailey Road Aston, PA 19014 Yeadon, PA 19050 610-938-9000 x 2575 610-938-2845 x6355

• Southeast Delco Kindergarten Center Delco Early Learning Center 1 School Lane 352 Childs Avenue Glenolden, PA 19036 Drexel Hill, PA 19026 610-938-2845 x6355 610-622-0990

• Easterseals 468 North Middletown Road Media, PA 19063 610-565-2353

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Early Head Start/Head Start/Home Based Program Team

Administrative/Management Team

Ms. Maryanne Regan - Interim Director of Early Head Start/Head Start Ms. Justine Pascal – Assistant Director PFCE Vacant – Assistant Director Education, Ages 3-5 Ms. Brittany Gibson - Assistant Director Education, Ages birth-3 Mr. Barry Colgan – Fiscal Officer Mr. Kenneth Calloway – Operations Coordinator

Supervisory Team

Vacant – Health Manager Vacant– Disabilities and Mental Health Manager

Aston

Ms. Bri Shulski – Education Manager Mr. Michael Hohenadel – Education Specialist

Chester Township Regional

Ms. Talia Bradley-Cook – Education Manager

Ms. Johanna Keehn – Education Specialist

Folcroft

Ms. Kianah Pena – Education Manager Ms. Simone Dodson – Education Specialist

Madison

Ms. Melissa Bubb – Education Manager Ms. Nyfisa Rabb – Education Specialist

Sharon Hill

Vacant – Education Manager

Mr. Anthony Stewart – Education Specialist

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Program Governance Delaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU)

The Delaware County Intermediate Unit is the grantee for the EHS/HB/HS programs and maintains the legal and fiscal responsibility for the program. The DCIU Board of Directors, which is the governing body of EHS/HS reviews and approves all items presented to them by Policy Council. DCIU Mission: The mission of the Delaware County Intermediate Unit, a regional educational service agency, is to provide leadership in the development and delivery of quality, cost-effective programs and services to school communities. OUR Beliefs We believe in our commitment to provide diverse and flexible educational programs and services within a safe environment by fostering the development of learning communities of integrity and excellence. We pledge to promote forward thinking, creativity, partnerships, and to encourage positive change. We will seek to maintain our entrepreneurial spirit while developing meaningful goals that indicate the success of our mission. OUR Vision DCIU empowers partnerships that Drive, Create, Inspire, and Understand excellence in education.

Drive – strategic forward movement Create – dynamic innovative solutions

Inspire – limitless possibilities Understand – challenges and aspirations

DCIU Head Start Mission Statement "The mission of the Delaware County Intermediate Unit Head Start Program is to provide families with tools to become self-sufficient; to prepare children who are ready, willing and able to learn; to empower and develop capable and highly qualified staff and to produce leaders committed to excellence for the promise and vision of a brighter future."

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Policy Council Policy Council is responsible for approving and submitting plans to the DCIU Board and overseeing the direction of the program. This relationship between the DCIU Board of Directors and Policy Council is viewed as a collaborative “working partnership.” Through this working partnership, Policy Council members, the DCIU Board, and key program management staff review and approve the following:

1. Parent Engagement Plans 2. ERSEA Plan 3. Grant Applications 4. Program Budget 5. Personnel Policies to include hiring/termination of program staff 6. Bylaws for Policy Council 7. Standards of Conducts for staff, volunteers, and contractors 8. All other responsibilities assigned or designated by EHS/HS management

Policy Council also serves as a link to the Parent Committees and the communities they serve. Policy Council assists Parent Committees in communicating with parents of students enrolled in the program to ensure that they understand their rights, responsibilities, and opportunities in the Early Head Start/Head Start/Home Based program. Policy Council also encourages parents to actively participate in the program and the shared decision-making process.

Policy Council Representatives and Alternates are elected in September of each year by their peers at the Parent Committee level. Representatives and alternates serve one year, January to December. A Policy Council member can currently serve no more than 5 years in a lifetime. Term of service is subject to change per EHS/HS Standards. All members must be re-elected each year.

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Policy Council Structure Early Head Start / Head Start Performance Standards 1301.3(b)

Parent Committee Number of Classrooms

Number of Policy Council

Representatives

Number of Policy Council

Alternates Aston 7 2 1

Chester Township Regional 7 2 1 CTE Folcroft 12 4 1

Madison 8 3 1 Sharon Hill ECLC 9 3 1

Pre-K Counts/HSSAP Rep N/A 1 N/A EHS Home Based N/A 2 N/A

EHS CC Partnership 3 centers 3 3 Total 43 classrooms+

3 Partners 20 8

Policy Council Representatives and their Alternates must be elected by majority vote of their respective Parent Committees. 51% of Policy Council members must be parents of currently enrolled children.

o Centers will have one Policy Council Representative for every 3 classrooms o There will be 1 Alternate Representative for each center. o Partnership sites will elect 1 Representative for each site o One Pre-K Counts/HSSAP Rep elected by Council based on letter submissions

from Parents at centers who host Pre-K Counts/HSSAP classrooms. o EHS Home Based will elect 2 Representatives o Eight Community Representatives – approved by elected Policy Council members o Policy Count Alternate Representatives are required to attend all Policy Council

Meetings and will receive all Policy Council communications. The Alternate will not have voting rights unless the elected Representative from the same Parent Committee is unable to attend the Policy Council Meeting. In the event that an elected representative must resign from the Council, the alternate will automatically assume the representative’s position. The Parent Committee would then elect a new Alternate Policy Council Representative.

o In order to constitute a quorum, one-third of the seated members must be in attendance; of these, 51% must be parents of currently enrolled children.

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DCIU Early Head Start / Head Start Policy Council

Stephane Tchanque, President Nathanial Lee, Vice President

Tanea Pratt-Hart, Treasurer, Community Representative Valerie Simone-Spera, Secretary

Taneka Sharp, DCIU Board Representative Serrai Alexander – Representative Ogechi Anusiem, Representative

Winnifred Massaley Barbu – Representative Jennifer Bishop, Community Representative

Jennifer Brooks – Representative Tenillia Bruton, Representative

Lynette Greene, Community Representative S Maureen Loughery – Representative

Jordan Mankin -Representative Markeysha Mosley – Representative

Amy Lynn Naill – Representative Melissa Plasco – Representative

Stephen Rosembert, Community Representative Genay Scott - Representative

*Please note that elections take place for Policy Council in September of every year.

Term commitments run from January to December. Member info listed is subject to change. Policy Council conducts meetings on the first Tuesday of each month. Council meetings are held during day and, on occasion, in the evening. All meetings will adhere to set calendar. During the current COVID event, meetings may be virtual. In-person meetings will Delaware County Intermediate Early Head Start/ Head Start Educational Service Center, 200 Yale Ave., Morton, PA 19070

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Parent Committees

Parent Committees provide every parent/guardian of an enrolled child the opportunity to assist in the development of activities at their center. All parents of enrolled children are automatically members of a Parent Committee and each center has a committee. The Parent Committee is an opportunity for parents to develop programs designed to empower one another toward the path of self-sufficiency. Each center-based and home-based Parent Committee will establish goals around: Community, Center, or Children. The purpose of setting these goals is to create lasting community relationships, improve our Centers and support our Early Head Start / Head Start families. Parent Committee responsibilities include:

• Advise staff in developing and implementing program policies, activities, and services • Participate in the recruitment and screening of staff • Elect Policy Council Representatives and Alternates to represent their centers.

The first EHS/HS Parent Committee Meeting will be held vir tually in September. P a r e n t s w i l l b e i n f o r m e d o f t h e d a t e a n d t i m e o f t h e m e e t i n g b y t h e i r F a m i l y S e r v i c e W o r k e r . At this first meeting, dates and times for future meetings will be chosen. During this meeting, the parents at each center will elect the Parent Committee President, Vice President, Secretary & Treasurer. Each officer will be required to attend a mandatory virtual orientation training in October. Only parents/legal guardians of actively enrolled students qualify to serve as officers. Parent Committee serves from September to June.

Each Parent Committee elects a Policy Council Representative(s) and an Alternate. It is important to note that DCIU HS/EHS Policy Council is a completely different governing body. The Policy Council is the parent decision making board for EHS/HS and shares program governance with the Delaware County Intermediate Unit Board of Directors. Parent Committee will be informed of the center’s budget for the upcoming year based on the funded enrollment at each center. Therefore, the attendance of all parents at this meeting is vital to the success of both the Parent Committee and Policy Council.

During the October meeting, Parent Committee will begin the planning process for workshops and trainings they would like to schedule over the course of the year. Planning for these events will need to start early so committees can develop a budget prior to the deadline (last Friday in October) so that the budget can be approved by Policy Council at their November meeting. Once the Parent Committee budget has been approved by Policy Council, the Parent Committees can then use funds for all the activities that have been planned.

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Parent/Community Concern Procedure We want to ensure that you have an opportunity to question and discuss issues regarding the program that concerns you. Our goal is to address the concern and work together to remedy the situation. This Concern Procedure is a problem-solving tool to help resolve issues at the lowest level of authority, with the least possible amount of program disturbance. A concern or grievance is a written complaint alleging that EHS/HS Regulations, Program Policies, Program Procedures, etc. were not followed or the Parent/Community member has a legitimate concern that they would like to be logged due to unfair or unequal treatment

In the event that you have a grievance regarding staff or a parent, take the following steps, in the order listed below. If you are not satisfied with the results of the first step, the subsequent steps are taken.

First Step: Discuss the issue with the person directly involved. Parent may request an FSW to sit in

as a mediator* if the conflict can be described as a parent-to-parent concern. If the concern is focused upon a DCIU EHS/HS staff person, the Education Manager at the center will serve as a mediator. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, please move to step 2.

Second Step: If unable to resolve the issue at the center level, discuss the issue with one of the Assistant

Directors. If you are not satisfied with the outcome move to step 3.

Third Step: If unable to resolve at this juncture, directly address the grievance with the Program Director. If you are not satisfied with the outcome move to step 4.

Fourth Step: Request a meeting with Policy Council. A final mutual decision will be made with the

governing body (Policy Council and the DCIU Board of Directors). All new program policies that effect families are approved by Policy Council and the DCIU Board of Directors prior to implementation. In the event that you have an issue with Program Policy, please take the following steps:

First Step: Bring the grievance before the Policy Council

Second Step: The Policy Council reviews the grievance to ensure compliance with the program’s

policy. a. Should the Policy Council decide that the program policy was properly

followed, the process ends, and an explanation is given to the parents who initiated the issue.

b. Should the Policy Council decide that the program policy concerned was not properly followed, Policy Council will discuss the issue with the Program Director and the appropriate Supervisor. The Program Director and all Supervisors are responsible for correcting the non-compliance regarding program policy.

*Please utilize a Concern Request Form to schedule a meeting with a mediator and the interested party to attempt to resolve the matter at the lowest level possible, without disrupting program operations.

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DCIU Early Head Start / Head Start Parent/Community Concern Request Form

Date:

Name of Person submitting request

Address

Phone/Cell Number

Email Address Interested Party to meet with

Check One: Parent/Family Staff Person

Mediator Requested? Select one YES NO

*If Mediator Requested - If it is a concern with a Parent/Family, FW/FSW will serve as the mediator. If concern is with a Staff Person, Education Manager will serve as the mediator.

Nature of Concern:

(Please provide any supporting documentation)

Was the matter resolved? (Select one) YES NO

Does the concern need to move to the next step? (Select one) YES NO

Are both parties satisfied with the outcome of this meeting? YES NO

Signatures

Signatures

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Center Arrival and Departure Policy

One of the major goals of Delaware County Intermediate Unit Early Head Start / Head Start/Partnership programs is to assist you in developing your child to their fullest potential by partnering with EHS/HS staff on a consistent basis. Due to COVID-19, the hours of operation for student’s participating in-person instruction will be 8:30 to 12:00, Monday through Friday. Parents are currently not permitted to enter the center. Parents will drop off and pick up their child at the center’s designated location outside of the building. The children will be received by center staff and escorted to their classroom. • Upon arrival and departure, you will be asked to sign your child in and out of the program. Please

remember to write you full first and last name on the signature sheet as it is important that we have a record of the actual person signing the child in and out.

• If you cannot pick up your child for any reason, please remember that only those individuals, 16 years of age or older, who are listed on your emergency contact sheet can pick up the child with a photo ID.

• It is important that you keep your contact and emergency contact information up to date. If the address or phone number of you or your emergency contact changes, please notify your child’s teacher.

• If you are a working parent or are enrolled in school and need to make special arrangements for an earlier arrival (not before 8 AM,) please bring documentation from your employer/school and provide it to your Family Service Worker who will make arrangements with your instructor.

For students participating in virtual sessions, hours of operation will be 12:30 to 3 PM. You will be contacted by your child’s teacher with specific virtual meeting times.

Attendance: Regular attendance is an important part of your child’s growth and development. Parents will need to contact the center each day your child is absent or late for school. By arriving at 8:30 AM every day, you child will begin the day with the entire class and not miss any of the wonderful learning experiences that EHS/HS/Partnership offers.

It is also important to be on time to pick up your child, as they will be missing you by the end of the day. We ask for your cooperation to be prompt in this matter. Please keep in mind that you are late if your child is still in the building at 12:00 p.m. or later.

The following procedures have been implemented for late children:

1st Infraction - The parent/guardian will receive a letter of reminder referencing the end of the school day.

2nd Infraction - The F a m i l y W o r k e r / Family Service Worker will meet with the parent/guardian to remind them of procedure and what further infractions will entail.

3rd Infraction - Meeting with F W / FSW and Education Manager to review policy and discuss possible

alternatives.

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Program Closing Information

Inclement Weather

In case of severe weather conditions, you will receive an automated phone call providing information on how to respond to the weather-related emergency. Information will be posted on our official Facebook page. You also have the option of listening to KYW radio 1060 for one of the local news broadcasts. Our school number is #3239. Follow the instructions given. IF THE DELAWARE COUNTY INTERMEDIATE UNIT IS ON A 2-HOUR DELAY DCIU EHS\HS WILL HOST A FIVE-HOUR DAY BEGINNING AT 10:00 AM AND ENDING AT 3:00 PM. For questions regarding emergencies, please call your child’s center and ask to speak with the Emergency Team Leader or the Incident Commander. If your child attends a school district site (Madison, Chester Township Regional Center (CTR) you will follow the district schedule. If DCIU closes, all centers are closed regardless of district decisions,

Please remember to keep your child’s contact information up-to-date,

so that we can reach you in the event of an emergency.

#3239

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Student Safety

Video Surveillance

DCIU has a responsibility to maintain order and discipline on DCIU property and in buildings operated by DCIU/DCTS. DCIU recognizes the value of video surveillance for monitoring activities on DCIU/DCTS operated properties and uses video surveillance to monitor activities to assist in protecting the health, welfare, and safety of students and staff and to safeguard DCIU buildings, facilities, equipment, buses and property. Accordingly, video surveillance may occur at any time in any DCIU building, facility, buses, and property.

Active Supervision

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Early Head Start / Head Start PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES

1. You are encouraged to participate in decision making both at your child’s Center and at the program level by attending your monthly Parent Committee meeting and/or by serving on Policy Council.

2. You must work cooperatively with Early Head Start/Head Start as we assist you and your family in meeting your goals.

3. It is your responsibility to take part in your child’s classroom as an observer and volunteer and to contribute your services in whatever way you can toward enrichment of the total program.

4. You have an obligation to participate as an active partner in developing an early childhood education plan for your child including helping the child to complete any assignments sent home by the teacher.

5. You must commit to continuous improvement of the DCIU Early Head Start / Head

Start program.

6. You are encouraged to participate in training opportunities that will help you reach your goals.

7. As a good citizen, you need to become active in your community.

8. You are required to adhere to and support the Head Start Program Performance Standards.

9. Follow Professionalism Practice and Positive Behavior Support Rules.

10. Adhere to Parent/Community Concern Procedure.

11. Adhere to Arrival and Departure Policy for dropping off and picking up your child.

12. Be an active volunteer in your child’s Center or by completing SPARC take home activities.

13. Respond to contact requests by DCIU EHS/HS to have family meetings around child behaviors or classroom safety concerns.

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Parent/Family Opportunities Throughout the program year there will be many opportunities for you to participate in adult educational experiences and special events for your benefit. Due to COVID, some of these events may be virtual to einsure the health and safety of our staff, families, and students. You will be notified of these events, through the Parent Newsletter, flyers sent home with your child, and via email. For more information or to pre- register for any of these events please contact the FW/FSW/HV at your Center.

Volunteers Although in-person volunteer opportunities are temporarily suspended due to COVID, there are other ways that parents can volunteer and contribute to the program. Each family is asked to provide volunteer service at a minimum of 4 hours a month for an Early Head Start / Head Start classroom. This can be achieved by completing SPARC take home activities given by the instructor or assisting with any instructor-designated take home activity. Volunteer hours can also be earned by participating in virtual Parent Committee meetings, Self-Assessment, Menu meetings, interview teams (if trained) or workshop activities. When it is safe to resume in-person volunteering, activities can include: assisting in the classroom (reading a story, monitoring/supporting children during mealtimes) and reinforcing positive behavior strategies. Once in-person volunteer opportunities return, parents will be required to obtain Criminal Background and child abuse clearances before volunteering. Volunteers may be refused if they have a history of conviction(s) for crimes against children, including felony drug conviction, among others. Background checks are held as confidential and are used only for the purpose of ascertaining that volunteers may be in direct contact or control of children, as required by Pennsylvania law. The clearances are designed to inform educational organizations of prior criminal activity and charges of child abuse. Cost of the clearances will be covered by DCIU EHS/HS. Two clearances are available free of charge on-line from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (Criminal Record and Child Abuse). Fingerprint check will cost $25.95 (free to all EHS/HS volunteers) and is available by appointment at the DCIU. An appointment must be set with your Family Service Worker, Family Worker or Home Visitor to complete volunteer clearances. At the end of the school year, there is a Successful Parent / Volunteer Training event. Parents and community volunteers who qualify based on volunteer service are invited to this training which recognizes the valuable contributions you have made to the DCIU EHS/HS Program.

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PARENT/FAMILY VOLUNTEER’S CODE OF CONDUCT Courteous and respectful behavior between and among all program participants, volunteers and Early Head Start/ Head Start staff is essential for DCIU EHS/HS to achieve its mission, help ensure a positive environment, and promote the safety and security of children, families and staff. Achieving an ideal environment is not only the responsibility of the employees of DCIU EHS/HS, but is also the responsibility of each and every parent/family/volunteer that enters an EHS/HS Center.

We ask that all volunteers follow this Code of Conduct:

1. All DCIU EHS/HS parents/volunteers will respect and promote the unique identity of each child and family and refrain from stereotyping on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, culture, religion, or disability.

2. DCIU EHS/HS parents/volunteers will follow program confidentiality policies concerning information

about children, their families, other staff members, or the program by way of Policy Council meetings.

3. DCIU EHS/HS children will not be left alone or unsupervised while under the care of a parent/ volunteer.

4. DCIU EHS/HS parents/volunteers will use positive methods of child guidance and will not engage in

corporal punishment, emotional or physical abuse, or humiliation. In addition, they will not employ methods of discipline that involve isolation, the use of food as a punishment or reward, or the denial of basic needs. This also includes when Parents/Volunteers are addressing their own children at an EHS/HS Center.

5. DCIU EHS/HS parents/volunteers and staff will refrain from smoking, having, using, or being under the

influence of any drug, alcohol or other substance while on EHS/HS property.

6. DCIU EHS/HS parents/volunteers will respect all EHS/HS property and Staff, and all DCIU EHS/HS Staff will respect all Parents/Families/Volunteers.

7. Volunteers are to work collaboratively with the program and within program parameters as set forth by the

Director and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively upon the program’s reputation and the children and families the program serves.

8. DCIU EHS/HS parents/volunteers will refrain from using profane language while on EHS/HS premises.

9. DCIU EHS/HS parents/volunteers will refrain from verbal and/or physical altercations with adults,

children or staff and will not engage in threats or acts of violence or aggression.

10. DCIU EHS/HS parents/volunteers will refrain from cell phone usage, including but not limited to talking, texting, and Internet use while dropping off & picking up children or while volunteering in the Center/Classroom.

11. No outside food, drinks, toys or money should be brought into the Center/Classroom for children.

12. Families must work collaboratively with DCIU EHS/HS to address child behaviors, safety concerns and

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discipline strategies for children.

13. Families must pursue avenues necessary to provide additional supports for children who may need additional help navigating the classroom. Failure to attend meetings, return communications or follow up on best practice suggestions can be considered as neglect and will be reported to CYS.

FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS CODE OF CONDUCT MAY RESULT IN:

o Restriction to program classrooms & related center activities o Contact the Department of Children and Youth Services o Contact the local police department o Civil or criminal action o Removal of parent/family/volunteer from any leadership position o Removal and/or expulsion of parent/volunteer from the premises and/or program

As a program designed to support and engage parents in a positive manner, DCIU EHS/HS does not intend to remove anyone from this program as a first resort unless a situation occurs in which the EHS/HS program cannot ensure the health, safety and well-being (either physical or emotional) of children, families, employees or property. DCIU EHS/HS seeks to engage anyone who violates any standard found in the Code of Conduct to a process that provides support to address the unwanted behavior. We will offer options to assist our fellow EHS/HS community members to consider the importance of respecting everyone’s right to open access of all components of our program without fear of reprisal, insult or injury. At the end of any investigation regarding a violation of the Code of Conduct, the Program Director can invite the offending individual to an eight-week improvement program that will include monitoring, training and social supports to address inappropriate center behavior and encourage pro-active choices in the future. The plan will constitute:

o Identifying problematic behavior o Guidelines to prevent repeating the problematic behavior in the future o Strategies to limit or avoid triggers to inappropriate behavior, which could include limiting access to a

Head Start center o Goals and timelines for improving conduct o Consequences for meeting or not reaching goals

If the person completing this program successfully completes all five steps of the program, the Director or his/her designee will determine a plan to remove all barriers to the parent under the improvement program to the Early Head Start/Head Start center.

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Creative Curriculum The Creative Curriculum is used by the DCIU Early Head Start and Head Start programs. It has become the go-to curriculum for many early child -care and preschool programs in the Delaware County area, as well as across the country. The authors have used the latest research and theory about how children learn as the foundation, always considering what is developmentally appropriate.

In our Early Head Start (EHS) Infant/Toddler classrooms, your child’s day is enriched with many opportunities for interactive experiences. Research tells us the single biggest predictor of future student success is building positive relationships. We focus on creating a loving environment that centers on building positive relationships. Child directed learning takes place throughout the day over many individualized experiences. Activities provided for preschoolers are: Blocks, Dramatic Play, Toys and Games, Art, Library, Discovery, Sand and Water, Music and Movement, Computers, and Outdoors. Parents will see these areas in every classroom as they observe their child or volunteer in the classroom. You will see children making choices. This is how children pursue their own interests and take charge of their own learning. Teachers plan the activities to engage a wide range of children’s interests and abilities. Children stick with the activity for as long as they choose, they may modify the activity as they are learning and thinking, and they may also abandon the activity. Children move at their own pace to different activities.

Home Visits and Parent/Teacher Conferences

Home visits and parent conferences take place two times a year. Due to COVID 19, these events will take place virtually until further notice. Teacher-parent/guardian conferences are held to discuss the many ways your child is growing and developing within the program. Items discussed during the conferences include: assessment/screening results, developmental progress, and transition to kindergarten.

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Discipline Policy

The DCIU Head Start program emphasizes the use of positive behavioral supports and guidance with its students. Teachers facilitate the development of self-control in children by using positive guidance techniques such as modeling and encouraging expected behavior, redirecting children to a more acceptable activity and setting clear limits. Children are provided many opportunities to develop social skills such as cooperation and respect for the feelings of others. Instructors encourage and facilitate the development of these positive social skills at all times. Children are praised for their smallest accomplishments and encouraged to feel increasingly competent and in control of themselves. The schedule and the classroom environment will be arranged to meet the individual needs of children. There will be a variety of activities, materials and equipment to help minimize conflict. Children learn self-control when adults treat them with dignity and use discipline techniques that include:

• Valuing mistakes as learning opportunities • Redirecting children to more acceptable behavior • Listening when children talk about their feelings and frustrations • Guiding children to resolve conflicts and modeling skills that help children solve problems • Patiently reminding children of rules and their rationale as needed • Independently allowing them to explore and learn through their environment • Allow children time to work through their emotions in a designated peace area.

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Transition Activities

Transitions are part of life and happen all during the course of a child’s life, change is inevitable. Families move, siblings are born, and school begins. The goal of Early Head Start and Head Start transition activities is to have a positive effect on children and families. Collaboration and planning areis key to effective transition. Transitioning to a new environment can be exciting and interesting, but also challenging and stressful. Collaborating with families to create well-planned, respectful practices can help make transition a positive experience for our children and families, as well as the staff who work with them. Early Head Start, Head Start, and child care teachers, Home Visitors, Family Workers, Family Service Workers and Health Technicians — support children and families transitioning into and out of early education settings. Transitions happen between program options (home-based to center-based, to Child Care Partners), between rooms (infant room to toddler room), or between programs (Head Start to child care, Head Start to kindergarten-Bridge Crossing).

EARLY HEAD START

Parents of children who are aging out of Early Head Start (EHS) should complete a transition packet with their Family Worker by the time their child turns 30 months. This transition packet will help to support parents as they consider the next educational placement for their child; be it Head Start, a partnership site, or a community pre-school placement.

HEAD START

Parents of children who will be entering Kindergarten will receive an exit survey during the final teacher conference. The information gathered will be compiled by the Center Leader whose area focus is on transition. Information is collected for age eligible children from each site and shared with administration for the purposes of future program planning and improving the families overall Early Head Start / Head Start experience.

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Bridge Crossing In June each program year, DCIU EHS/HS holds its annual Bridge Crossing Ceremony. Bridge Crossing is a symbolic event. It commemorates a child’s transition from Head Start to the world of formal education. Children demonstrate skills they have acquired during their years as a Head Start student then cross over a handmade bridge which recognizes their transition from preschool to kindergarten. The dads, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, community and male staff members designed and built the bridge during two “I’m A Bridge Builder” conferences during the 2010-11 program year. The bridge was built to symbolize the unity of the men and to encourage the males to take a positive and active role in the educational lives of the children. The bridge also symbolizes transitioning from one place to the next. Children crossing the bridge will be leaving the Head Start environment and entering the next stage of their educational journey. As the children start their journey across the bridge their Head Start instructor will be there to guide them just as they have all along their Head Start experience. As the children reach the other side of the bridge a representative from their school district will be there to welcome them in to the public-school system. It is important to remember that Bridge Crossing is NOT a graduation, but rather a symbolic life transition for our Head Start children. The day is planned entirely by the Head Start staff. Parents/Families are strongly encouraged to attend and celebrate this wonderful accomplishment.

It is necessary that all families supporting children at Bridge Crossing remain in their seats so all in attendance can hear and witness the event. Additional photographs of your child up close can be completed outside on the event grounds. Only 1 designated family member is needed to drop off and pick up the child that is bridge crossing. Please honor this request.

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DELAWARE COUNTY INTERMEDIATE UNIT

EARLY HEAD START AND HEAD START

Family Engagement and Services The goal of Early Head Start/Head Start/Home Based Family Services is to support each family in building on their individual strengths and needs to become self-sufficient. Family Service Workers partner with you to develop a Family Partnership Agreement (FPA). The FPA is a process that will help identify your family’s strengths and assist you in setting self-identified and realistic goals that will prepare your family for the future. During the year, you will have continued support to meet these goals during regular contact with your Family Service Worker. In addition, your assigned Family Service Worker can provide you with links to community resources, information on adult education (GED, college), emergency assistance or crisis intervention, and assistance with the Medicaid, CHIP, and SNAP application process. Your Family Service Worker will also provide information to you about special program and center events, Parent Committee Meetings, and parent trainings and workshops. Your Family Service Worker looks forward to partnering with you and your family for a successful school year!

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Program Wide Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports for Parents/Families DCIU Early Head Start /Head Start Center’s Rules

Areas: Rules: Soft Touch, Kind Words, Listening Ears, Taking Turns And Walking Feet

Classroom

Hallway &

Transportation

Playground or in the Office

Center/Staff or Volunteer Restroom

Expectations:

Be Respectful

• I use my inside voice

• I listen to and follow directions

• I am courteous • I use kind words

• I speak quietly • I listen to and

follow directions • I WILL NOT be

on my cell phone

• I use my listening ears

• I will encourage the students to take turns

• I will assist in maintaining the correct traffic pattern

• I use soft touch

• I use the restroom in a timely manner

• I give personal space and privacy to others

• I speak quietly • I will refrain from

lewd or profane language

Be Responsible

• I help keep the classroom clean and orderly

• I use kind words and good manners

• I assist h

• I walk on the right side of the wall

• I arrive by 8:30 for child drop off and by 2:30 for child pick up

• I wash my child’s hands upon arrival

• I ask permission to use equipment

• I will not access or handle confidential information

• I will dress properly when volunteering

• I wash my hands • I put trash in the

trash can • I dispose of items

properly • I will not smoke in

the Center or in the restrooms

Be Safe • I move around

the classroom slowly

• I use materials carefully and correctly

• I use walking feet • I use the railing

when on the steps

• I will adhere to DCIU Early Head Start / Head Start Policy & Procedures

• I will adhere to the Parent/

Community Concern Procedure • I will adhere to the

Parent Code of Conduct

• I will follow the Conflict Resolution Guidelines

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Prevention and Early Intervention

The DCIU Early Head Start and Head Start is an inclusive educational environment. We welcome children with disabilities and/or medical conditions.

Developmental Delays

The early years are critical to a child’s development and future success. Head Start will screen all enrolled children to look for areas of development that aren’t progressing as quickly as we would expect. From this, we may, with your permission, refer your child for an in-depth evaluation to Elwyn SEEDS in Chester or DCIU Early Intervention. The evaluation is free. If your child is eligible, support services will be provided in specific areas. Often these services are provided in the child’s classroom and are free of charge. DCIU Head Start works closely with Chester SEEDS and Early Intervention to ensure that the child is supported so he can make the most of the learning opportunities.

If your child has an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) we encourage you to share it with us. We will be able to ensure that your child receives the services recommended. Head Start teachers will be able to work with Early Intervention and SEEDS staff to provide the most effective intervention program possible. Any medical issues that might affect t your child’s progress and well-being should be shared so we can work together to ensure that there is no interference with your child’s ability to learn.

Mental Health Consultation

Social/Emotional and Pro-Social Behavior are also developmental areas that may be of concern. The Disabilities and Mental Health Manager in collaboration with the Mental Health Consultant will work with families, teachers and service providers to problem solve classroom-based challenges. They will engage in classroom observations of the children and discussions with parents and teachers. Services are indirect, featuring referrals, suggested strategies, environmental modifications and curriculum accommodations that may help the child develop more positive behavioral interactions. Care is taken to be attentive and responsive to cultural differences between and among staff and families.

Families are provided assistance navigating the Behavioral Health system, including coordination of multiple agencies providing services to a child or a family. Through a combination of planned activities and spontaneous interventions, the Disabilities and Mental Health and Mental Health Consultant will assist staff and parents to help children practice skills that foster mentally healthy development. Additionally, the Disabilities and Mental Health Manager is available to discuss with parents and staff strategies to foster development in those children who exhibit atypical development and present with unfamiliar behavior.

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HEALTH Our DCIU Early Head Start, Head Start, and Home -Based health staff are ready and available to serve you, your child and your family in the area of health and safety during this school year. Our Health team consists of a Head Start Assistant Director, a Health Manager, Health Specialist, and Licensed Practical Nurses. The Health team works closely with each other, other DCIU Head Start teams and YOU. As a team, we can continue to raise the standard of care for your child. Please stay in touch with your health staff and let us know if there are any changes in your child’s information. During the year, you will receive several requests by members of the Health team to obtain and/or update your child’s health information. In addition, they will also contact you regarding opportunities to participate in health education experiences through center, program, and community events. Due to the recent COVID event, some of these opportunities may be virtual.

Health Services Advisory (HSAC) Committee

The Health Services Advisory Team is committed to facilitating access to services for children by collaborating with parents, caregivers, Head Start staff and administrators, community partners and the community at large for the purpose of improving the health, safety and wellness of the children and families (Early Head Start /Head Start communities/ people we serve).

Community Partnerships

Community Partnerships are an important part of the HS program. Our collaboration with various organizations, health facilities, and educational facilities assists us in providing services for your child. Some of our current partnerships are with Delaware County Technical School LPN Program, Widener University Nursing Program and Kids Smiles Dental Service Program. Our most important partnership, however, is YOU—parents and guardians of the children and families we serve.

English Translation Services Translation Services are available to translate the Health Parent Handbook and Health Screening results by way of Language Services Associates For more information about this service contact 610-938-9000 ext. 2208.

Tobacco/Nicotine-Free School and Workplace In accordance with Act 145 of 1996 and Act 93 of 2019 with a concern for the overall health and welfare of students and staff, the Delaware County Intermediate Unit Board of Directors prohibits the use of tobacco products in school buildings, on school buses, on school sponsored trips and on school property owned by leased by, or under the control of the Intermediate Unit. “Tobacco products” is defined by Board Policy to include: a lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar and pipe; other lighted smoking product; and smokeless tobacco in any form. This also applies to electronic cigarettes and vaporizers.

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Information to Remember

As indicated in the Head Start Performance Standards (1302.4) your child must be up to date for (annual Physical Exams and Dental Exams (due every 6 months) as required by PA Early Periodic Screening Diagnostic and Treatment schedule. Your child’s immunizations must be up-to-date as required by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, PA Immunizations Regulations for Children in Child Care groups, and the DCIU EHS/HS Health Service Advisory Committee. Please remember, whenever your child receives a shot, or visits the Health care provider(physician/dentist) take the information to the Health team at your center. If your child receives WIC, please have WIC write the re-certification results from their tests for you and give them to your Health Technician. (Any child under the age of 5 years, who is in Head Start, should qualify for WIC.)

Please feel free to contact your Health Technician at your center with any questions or concerns

SCREENINGS

The Health team, along with our community partners, conducts well-child health screenings which include hearing, vision, height, and weight. Some screenings are performed for children based on individual need and may need to be repeated or done at a later date if there are concerns. You will receive notice when the initial health screenings will be completed. You will also be notified as to whether your child passed the screening or is being referred for further testing. It is very important that you let us know if your child has any physical conditions that would affect the screenings such as tubes in the ears or if glasses are worn.

HEALTH AND DENTAL It is important that you follow-up on your child’s health and dental problems immediately. A child in good health is a happier child and a much better learner. Each time your child visits the doctor or another health provider for something other than physical or dental exam, please have the doctor complete the Health Care Provider (Physician) Report Follow-Up Form. You can get the form from your Health Technician. Make sure the doctor writes the diagnosis and any needed follow-up on the form. This information needs to be on any note you obtain from the doctor. Give the completed form to your Health Technician or Family Service Worker. A note stating the child was seen at the clinic or office is not enough information. All information is kept confidential.

MEDICATION

Please contact your Health Technician/School Nurse immediately if you think your child will need medication during school hours. Medications are a very special issue and must be discussed with us. We encourage administration of medication outside of the program day. However, if your physician orders that your child must receive a medication during the program day, the doctor’s order and specific directions must be provided to the program. It is important to note that medical marijuana in any form cannot be administered on school property or by staff, even when there is a prescription. It is recommended the first dose(s) of mediation be administered at home.

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Health Staff or Family Service Workers can give you forms to take to your physician. When the information from the physician is obtained, please contact the Health Technician at your center. When all appropriate forms are signed and reviewed, the medication will be given as needed. Until the forms are signed you must administer the medication. No medication will be administered by any staff member until all forms have been completed, signed, and training of medication administration is given to staff. The Medication Procedures below offers specifics about medication brought to the program:

• Medication is to be given to the Health Technician • Medication should be in the original pharmaceutical child-proof container or bottle with the child’s name,

medication, dosage, time on the prescription label on the container. • If necessary, pills must be split prior to bringing the medication to the program. Request the pharmacist to split the pills. • Medication is to remain in the center. It is not to be transported from home to school or vice versa. • The child is not to have access to the medication.

If your child’s medication changes in any way, you will need to get a new form completed by the doctor. Please contact your Health Technician if you have questions.

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Guidelines Due to COVID-19 DCIU EHS/HS has created a Health & Safety Plan to serve as a guideline for all programs and services to reopen safely. This program can be viewed in greater detail on the DCIU website (www.dciu.org) and by clicking on the DCIU-DCTS Health and Safety Plan on the website. This plan is routinely updated as new health and safety information becomes available. Guidance on exclusion from school due to confirmed or suspected Coronavirus is included in the chart below. Coronavirus [COVID-19]: COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2 and commonly causes mild to severe upper-respiratory tract illness. The CDC reports that people with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19: Fever or chills, cough, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose Symptom Monitoring: Delaware County is served by the Chester County Health Department. DCIU and DCTS will implement their guidance for symptom monitoring. DCIU requires all staff, students, and parents to follow this process for self-screening:

o Take temperature daily. Any student with an elevated fever of 99.5°F must stay home. o A student must stay home if he/she has 1 or more symptom(s) in Group A or 2 or more symptoms

in Group B

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The Chester County Department of Health put out Guidelines for Exclusion From and Return to School Requirements for COVID-19 as follows:

Scenario Exclude From

School Return to School After....

#1 - No Symptoms No Not Applicable #2 – COVID 19 Symptoms

Yes Individual should be tested for COVID-19. • If test result is negative, return to school 3

days after symptoms no longer present • If test result is positive, follow return to

school guidance for scenario #3 #3 - Positive COVID 19 PCR test with symptoms

Yes • 3 days with no fever and • Improvement in symptoms and • 10 days since symptoms first appeared

#4 - Positive COVID –19 PCR Test without symptoms

Yes 10 days after PCR test was collected • If symptoms develop during 10 days, follow

return guidance for scenario #3 #5 - Close Contact with symptoms

Yes Individual should be tested for COVID-19 • If test result is negative return to school 14

days after last exposure to the person with COVID – 19 and symptoms

• If test result is positive, follow return to school for scenario #3

#6 – Close contact of COVID-19 without symptoms

Yes 14 days after the date of last exposure to the person with COVID-19

• If symptoms develop during the 14 days, follow return to school guidance for scenario #5

Additional health and safety guidelines that have been put into place due to Coronavirus are as follows:

• Parents will take their child’s temperature before coming to school. If the child shows any influenza symptoms, signs of possible COVID, or has a temperature above 99.5 they need to stay home.

• Increased frequency of cleaning and sanitizing classrooms, equipment, and bathrooms. • The program will increase space between children as much as possible and arrange seating during

table work with increased spacing. • All staff in the building must wear PPE and maintain social distance of 6 feet. • All children ages 2 and up are to wear masks. • Children will be served prepackaged meals to minimize food handling and will space out

accordingly during meals. • No cloth toys, blankets, pillows, etc. will be permitted in the classroom; all toys will be nonporous

and will be washed and sanitized daily. • Numerous hand sanitizer stations have been setup throughout all sites. Nonalcoholic hand sanitizer

is used for children.

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Incidents /Illness

You will be notified if your child has an incident and/or any time your child does not feel well.

• A return to school note may be required from your physician • If you are not available to pick up your child from school, we will contact someone on your emergency

contact list. Please keep all emergency contact information up to date. This includes your own address and phone number and also the name and phone number of who we should call if we cannot reach you. This is extremely important.

• Children are required to be picked up if they become ill or suspected of having a contagious condition within a reasonable amount of time (within 2 hours of being called.)

• For non-emergency communication, the Health Technician will leave a message if they cannot reach you. Due to HIPAA law, we will not leave a detailed message on your voice mail or with an unauthorized person of your household. If you would like to be contacted on your cell or at your work, please let us know.

• You will be notified if your child has been exposed to a contagious disease while in school. • Your Health Technician needs to be notified within 24 hours if your child is diagnosed with

anything that could be considered contagious. Certain medical conditions will require your child to stay out of school for a certain amount of time. Please help us by following the rules necessary to help your child get well. This includes, but is not limited to, handing in the paperwork that is requested and/or keeping your child at home. Keeping staff updated about health issues and maintaining good records allows us to better care for your child. Keeping your child home will allow your child a get- well period and allows us to protect the other children and staff.

• Please do NOT bring your child to school if he/she appears ill as they would be unable to participate in the regular school setting.

• Follow the “Exclusion from School” information (Appendix) when deciding if your child should be in school. If you are not sure, contact your Health Technician before you bring your child to school.

• If your child is ill, contact the Health Technician/School, Family Service Worker or Instructor to let him/her know about the illness. If your child appears ill to the Instructor, you may be asked to remain at the school until contact is made with the Health Technician. If your child is bused, you may be called to pick up your child.

There may be times when the Health designee may need to check your child, because of suspected health problems. It is not always possible to notify you before the screening/check of your child. However, we will notify you of any suspected health problems.

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EXCLUSION FROM SCHOOL

The following information serves as a guide for determining exclusion (requiring the child stay home) from school. Individual cases may require other treatment options or documentation requirements (such as notes) as specified by the health care provider and/or the Health Staff. References from national authorities may also be consulted. The recommendations below for this Exclusion Policy are based on Managing Infectious Diseases in Child Care and Schools; A Quick Reference Guide (QRG), 4th Edition, American Academy of Pediatrics (2017.) (See original publication for clarifications.) Health staff have determined a note from the child's health care provider is required for the indicated illnesses to verify compliance with treatment recommendations. Notes may be required on an individual basis regarding circumstances deemed necessary by the Health staff If your child is out of school for three days and you have consulted with, or your child has been seen by a health care provider, a note from the health care provider is required. If you manage your child’s illness at home (such as for a cold), please consult the Chester County Health Department chart above. If the child is without one symptom from Column A or two symptoms from Column B you yourself may write the note on return to the program.

SHORT TERM EXCLUSION POLICY Temporary exclusion is recommended when:

• The illness prevents the child from participating comfortably in activities. • The illness results in a need for care that is greater than the staff of the program determine they can

provide without compromising the health and safety of other children. • The child’s condition poses a risk of spread of disease to others. The Health Technician may consult

with the Health Manager and/or the local health department if the situation warrants or if there is a question on exclusion.

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EXCLUSION FROM SCHOOL CRITERIA (SHORT LIST)

• BED BUGS: Child may remain in school. Store freshly laundered clothes and backpack in bag when sending child to school to prevent spread to other children. Refer to provider and treat infestation with the assistance of licensed, pest management professional.

• CHICKEN POX: Child must stay home from school a minimum of five days after rash appears and until all blisters are scabbed.

• DIARRHEA: If a child has more than one loose stool (not caused by medications) or is feverish, child must remain out of school until no episodes of diarrhea for 24 hours from the last episode

• ELEVATED TEMPERATURE: Any student with an elevated fever of 99.5°F must stay home.

• HEAD LICE (PEDICULOSIS): Lice is unlikely to be transmitted in classroom setting. Child may stay in classroom until end of day and can return when child has been treated. Recheck in 10 days. When a child has lice, every child in the class should be checked. Removal of all nits is not necessary if treatment has been given. Please provide evidence of lice treatment.

• IMPETIGO: Exclude until at least 24 hours after treatment has begun. Note is needed from doctor. Loosely cover exposed lesions with bandage.

• PINK EYE (CONJUNCTIVITIS): Exclusion from school is only required if caused by bacteria (purulent conjunctivitis) and not allergies. Individuals can be re-admitted into school once antibiotic treatment has been initiated for 24 hours (if determined to be caused by bacteria).

• RINGWORM (TINEA CAPITUS): Child may stay in classroom until end of day. Exclude at end of day. Area should be covered, if possible, while child is in class. Can return once treatment has begun.

• SCABIES: Exclude until 48 hours after treatment has begun and there is no fever without the use of medication for 24 hours. Need a doctor’s note for verification of treatment.

• STREP THROAT: Exclude until 48 hours after treatment has begun and there is no fever without the use of medication for 24 hours. Need a doctor’s note for verification of treatment.

• UNEXPLAINED RASHES: No exclusion necessary unless child is feverish, or rash is infected. Isolate child as much as possible from other children. Child may have to go home until doctor determines rash is not contagious or rash fades.

• VOMITING: Child must be excluded until there has been no vomiting for 24 hours from the last episode of vomiting

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SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE / NEGLECT REPORTING

All employees of DCIU Head Start are mandated reporters of suspected Child Abuse/Neglect. We have a team in place to handle such reports. To work with us, please inform staff of any marks/bruises your child may have sustained at home. The Delaware County Intermediate Unit, Special Programs, Head Start Division (DCIU HS) is concerned with the physical and mental well-being of DCIU EHS/HS children. DCIU EHS/HS will cooperate in the identification and reporting of suspected child abuse in accordance with applicable law and the Performance Standard 1302.47 (4) (k) which contends “established methods for handling cases of suspected or known child abuse and neglect that are in compliance with applicable Federal, State, or Tribal Laws.”

All staff members have a legal responsibility to report whenever they have reasonable cause to suspect that a child in the program is the victim of abuse, abandonment, cruelty or neglect resulting in physical, mental or sexual injury by other than accidental means, at the hands of a parent, other caregiver living in the home, or any other person. All staff receive training during orientation of each program year. In addition, newly hired staff receive training during their orientation. When any staff member suspects or sees child abuse or neglect during employment with Early Head Start/ Head Start:

o The employee will file a report with Child Line, either on the telephone or on line o The employee will contact their direct supervisor after filing a report o The employee will complete a written report within 48 hours o All documentation that may be necessary for an investigation will be gathered and will be

made assessable to any agent of the Department of Children and Youth Services or law enforcement during an investigation

YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY AND WELL-BEING IS IMPORTANT!

FAMILY SUPPORT FOR MENTAL HEALTH

In collaboration with the Instructional Staff and FSWs, the Disabilities and Mental Health Manager will discuss mental health family concerns, diagnostic and treatment procedures, plans for ongoing care and familiarize families with mental health issues upon request. Referrals to Behavioral/Mental Health agencies will be provided. The Disabilities and Mental Health Manager, in collaboration with the Health Manager and FSWs, will provide referral information and follow up with families regarding progress with treatment.

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CARE PLANS FOR SENSITIVE MEDICAL CONDITIONS

Some sensitive medical conditions may consist of, but not be limited to: Severe Asthma, food, medication, environmental and product allergies, seizures/Epilepsy, Hemophilia, tubes in ears, feeding tubes, Spina Bifida, etc. Please make us aware of any condition that could affect your child’s health and safety in the program. A special care plan from the physician is required. The health staff will review the plan with you and incorporate it into a Health Management Plan for your child.

SAFETY PRACTICES

SUNSCREEN/SKIN PROTECTION

It has been recommended that children be protected from the sun by using sun protective clothing (hat, visor, sunglasses) and sunscreen UVV and UVA ray protection of SPF 15 or higher during outdoor play. Outdoor play is a recommended daily activity for Head Start students, weather permitting. To assist us in the protection of your child apply sunscreen prior to your child coming to school.

STRINGS – STRINGS – STRINGS

Strings around the head/neck, wrists, ankles of jackets, shirts and/or pants have been reported to cause strangulation and/or other injuries when caught in mechanical doors, playground equipment and the like. To assist in the prevention of any potential injury, you may want to cut the stings to a length appropriate for tying without excess. Shoestrings, if not tied, can be a potential tripping hazard, either for the child wearing the shoes or someone walking in close proximity. Please make sure your child’s shoestrings are tied at all times. If your child has shoestrings that touch the floor when tied, they are too long and need to be adjusted.

FOOTWEAR

When the warm weather is upon us, safe footwear for the children is always a concern. We recommend that children wear slip-proof and closed-toe footwear during the warmer months. We want your child to fully participate in the program, however; your child may be restricted from certain activities due to unsafe footwear. Open toes, clogs and flip flops can be dangerous. Our concern is your child’s safety and we do not want your child to be injured.

JEWELRY Jewelry, especially necklaces, can be a source of injury to children in a play environment. Necklaces and hair beads/barrettes can be a choking hazard when children are playing. It is recommended your child not wear jewelry or small hair beads to school for safety reasons.

PLASTIC BAGS Plastic bags are a source of strangulation and suffocation. For the safety of the children, when supplying your child’s change of clothes for the classroom, it is recommended you use either a small book bag, shoebox or plastic container with a lid.

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