STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

Brown Bear Children’s Center offers affordable childcare to families in and around the South Shore area. We are open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM, in order to accommodate the working parents’ schedule. Brown Bear Children’s Center strives to create an environment in which children between the ages of 6 weeks to under 6 years can grow socially, physically, emotionally, and cognitively. Our Infant, Pre-Toddler, Toddler, Preschool, and Pre-Kindergarten programs encourage children to discover and explore the world around them through a variety of age appropriate activities and choices offered in each room. Our program provides children with the opportunity to learn at their own pace. We believe that developmentally age appropriate equipment and hands-on activities are the basis of growth and learning in early childhood. We encourage children to exercise self control, to learn through self directed activities, and to become independent and responsible. Children are allowed to make their own choices when discovering and exploring their new and exciting environment. Brown Bear Children’s Center’s staff successfully fosters positive attitudes, which in turn builds self-esteem, self-reliance, and self respect in young children. We provide personal attention to the special requirements of each child and create an atmosphere of genuine love and appreciation. In addition to the safety and well-being of the children, Brown Bear’s staff is committed to the support network between parent and caregiver. Frequent communication between both parties is intrinsic to our program. We are always available and happy to discuss any problems, concerns, ideas, or questions with you concerning your child and/or our program. Brown Bear Children’s Center is licensed by the MA Department of Early Education and Care, Metro Boston Region 6, 1250 Hancock St., Quincy, MA 02169. They may be contacted at 617-472-2881 for our program’s compliance history.

PHILOSOPHY Our program is based on the philosophy that children learn constantly and learn best in an environment where they are given appropriate behavioral limits; then are set free to play and explore in the new and exciting world around them. Our philosophy is based on our commitment to provide quality child are to families among the South Shore Community. We continually strive to provide a safe, nurturing environment in which all children can grow physically, socially, emotionally, and cognitively. All staff members conduct themselves professionally and maintain all child related and family related information in strict confidence. The staff provides proper role models for children. We will make an effort, by proper example, to teach children to be non-prejudicial. We will not promote racism, sexism, or discrimination on account of race, national origin, sexual orientation, disabilities, age, marital status, economic status, religion, political beliefs, or social status. The staff will affirm children’s self-worth through positive verbal guidance. All teachers will be current with the Department of Early Education and Care requirements, and will offer a daily program for children that includes both a routine schedule plus a variety of age appropriate experiences for children. WE BELIEVE freedom of choice, freedom to explore, and the freedom to discover are vital to the development of a child’s self-esteem and that self-esteem is crucial to a child’s well-being. WE BELIEVE children learn through doing; our teachers inspire young children to explore and provide opportunities for growth and learning. WE BELIEVE children should be encouraged to exercise self control and self direction to become independent and responsible, and most importantly, to feel good about themselves. WE BELIEVE our curriculum should provide developmentally appropriate activities and experiences which allow children to enjoy the learning process and progress at their own pace. WE BELIEVE in setting high standards of professionalism for our staff; our teachers are professionals dedicated to enhancing the lives of young children. WE BELIEVE parents and staff should work together in promoting the education and development of children. Open communication is essential and parent input is always welcome. WE BELIEVE that parent involvement is important, and we encourage parents to visit the center while their child is present. Parents are also invited to volunteer in the classroom, and to share a talent or develop a special activity with the children.

WE BELIEVE each child should be accepted as an individual worthy of respect. Children should be comfortable and uninhibited in our center so meaningful growth can take place. We are confident that your child will always feel welcome here.

ENROLLMENT POLICY Prior to enrolling your child at Brown Bear Children’s Center, parents are invited to visit our center, observe the program, and talk with the Director(s). We recommend that your child also visit the center prior to enrollment. This allows us to see if your child is comfortable with his/her surroundings. Brown Bear Children’s Center does not discriminate based on race, religion, cultural heritage, political belief, marital status, disability, age, national origin, sexual orientation, or status as a veteran. Toileting status is not an enrollment criteria; however, it is required for Pre-K children to be toilet trained as we do not have a diapering surface located in the classroom. Newly enrolled Pre-K aged children who are not toilet trained, will have the option of going to our Pre-School classroom if space and availability allow. Openings are granted according to our existing waiting list. Children are enrolled on a first come, first serve basis. If spaces are not available, your name will be placed on the wait list. Brown Bear’s wait list is prioritized as follows:

1. Children of staff members 2. Siblings of children enrolled in the center 3. Date called for wait list

Upon admission, parents will be given an enrollment packet, a parent handbook, and a current monthly newsletter and calendar. Brown Bear Children’s Center requires a written statement from a physician indicating that your child has had a complete physical within one year prior to admission. The physical is valid for one year and must be renewed yearly. We also require a physician’s certificate that your child has been successfully immunized in accordance with the current Department of Public Health’s recommended schedules. In addition, any child over the age of 12 months must furnish documentation of a Lead Screen Test. ALL PAPERWORK MUST BE COMPLETED AND TURNED IN BEFORE THE CHILD WILL BE ACCEPTED INTO CARE! Once your child has been enrolled, we will do all we can to make his or her transition into the program as easy as possible. Our staff appreciates any parent input and any additional information we may need to know about your child. Any changes or happenings in your child’s life can affect their behavior and/or mood. Knowing what is going on at home can help us understand and accommodate your child. Effective parent-teacher communication can provide for continuity between home and the center. Please notify us ASAP if your address, work, home, or cell phone numbers change. If someone other than yourself or those listed on the release form is picking up your child, we are to be notified in advance and in writing of the person’s name and description. In emergency situations you may phone such information. We do require everyone to provide a proper ID upon pick-up. If you wish to terminate your parent contract at any time, we require four weeks written notice.

CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT UPON ENTERING AND EXITING THE BUILDING. CHILDREN ARE REQUIRED TO BE SIGNED IN AND OUT OF THEIR CLASSROOMS EACH DAY.

CHILD GUIDANCE POLICY The purpose of Brown Bear Children’s Center’s Behavior Management Policy is to assist children in learning acceptable modes of behavior and developing self-control. Children must be offered choices and learn to express their feelings and opinions verbally. As they become old enough, they will participate in the development of the rules for their classroom so that they will truly understand them as they develop self-control. The emphasis of our policy, at all times, is on positive discipline rather than punishment.

1. Eliminate the potential for certain forms of behavior by providing a safe and age appropriate environment.

2. Communicate positive direction, rather than directive words such as “no” or “don’t.”

3. Explain to children how their actions may affect themselves or others.

4. Establish reasonable and positive expectations for each child. 5. Encourage each child to respect themselves as well as others. 6. Act as a role model for children always. Do not hesitate to

acknowledge mistakes when you make them. 7. Reward and praise positive behavior. 8. Separate less than desirable behaviors from the child; remain non-

judgmental when addressing inappropriate behaviors. 9. Reassure, express pride, and take interest in each child; self

esteem is top priority. 10. Trust each child to succeed; give him or her the opportunity to

correct behaviors independently. 11. Provide each child with the opportunity and motivation to:

Make choices, solve problems, function independently, respect the needs and rights of others, learn social skills through gentle guidance, adapt to daily routines and simple rules, become a responsible member of a group and learn to share and cooperate, feel secure, loved, nurtured, and in control of him or her self.

In extreme situations, separation from the group may be appropriate and benefit the child and/or group. When such “time out” is necessary the following steps must be followed:

1. The child should be encouraged to remove themselves from the group. This should be done in a calm and quiet manner with care taken to ensure his or her self-esteem remains intact.

2. The inappropriate nature of the behavior will be explained to the child.

3. The child will be removed to a safe location where they can calm down; one staff member will remain with the child.

4. No child will be placed in “corners” or other humiliating situations.

5. The duration of the “calm down” period will not exceed one minute per chronological age (ex. A three-year-old will sit for up to three minutes).

Brown Bear Children’s Center will never under any circumstances punish or humiliate a child. The following examples of punishment WILL NOT be tolerated:

1. Corporal punishment (including spanking) of any kind. 2. No child will be force-fed snack or lunch. 3. No child shall be subjected to cruel severe punishment, humiliation,

or verbal abuse. 4. No child will be restrained for any reason. 5. No child shall be denied food as a form of punishment. 6. No child shall be punished for soiling, wetting or not using the toilet.

Prohibitions also include:

1. Any type of physical hitting inflicted in any manner upon the body, shaking, threats, or derogatory remarks;

2. Depriving children of outdoor time, meals or snacks, force feeding or otherwise making them eat against their will, or in any way using food as a consequence

3. Confining a child to a swing, highchair, playpen or any piece of equipment for an extended period of time in lieu of supervision

Violation of any of these behavior management guidelines by staff will result in dismissal.

OUR STAFF

Brown Bear Children’s Center’s staff members are warm and nurturing people with the number one goal of providing quality childcare to the families at the center. Staff members are professionals in the field of early childhood who understand child development, who can apply their knowledge in the classroom, and who respect each child as an individual. Teachers value working as a team with parents and colleagues to benefit the welfare of each child at the center. Please feel free to come to us with any questions and/or concerns you may have.

PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Brown Bear Children’s Center welcomes family involvement and input into our policies, procedures, and curriculum. We hope family members will drop in to visit their child’s classrooms often.

1. All information in your child’s file is considered privileged and confidential. Information will not be released to anyone who is not directly related to implementing the program plan for your child without written permission by you. Upon request, you have the right to access your child’s records and copies of information in your child’s records are available. We will keep a log listing anyone to whom information has been given. Parents will be notified if their child’s records have been subpoenaed. Brown Bear Children’s Center will charge a reasonable fee for copies requested by the parent.

2. Parents have the right to add information, comments, data, or any other materials to their child’s record. Parents also have the right to request deletion or amendment of any information contained on their child’s records.

3. When a child is no longer in care at Brown Bear Children’s Center, their records will be transferred to anyone if designated by the parent in a written request.

4. The Children’s Center shall not authorize any activities unrelated to the direct care of children or to any other contracts without the written consent of the parents or guardian. Activities may include, but are not limited to, fund raisers and publicity, including photos and participation in mass media.

5. Upon request of the Department of Early Education and Care we will make our records available to authorized EEC employees. Such employees may not remove identifying materials from the center and shall maintain the confidentiality of the records.

6. Brown Bear Children’s Center shall not conduct research, experimentation, or unusual treatment involving children without written and informed consent of the parent or guardian.

7. Major routine housekeeping duties such as vacuuming, floor washing, etc., shall not be carried out while children actively occupy the room.

The Department of Early Education and Care is our licensing authority. A copy of 102 CMR 7.00: Standards for Licensure or Approval of Group Day Care and School Age Child Care Programs, is on the premises of the center and is available to any person upon request. If you have a question about any regulations, please ask a staff member to show them to you.

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

1. Parents are encouraged to visit the center and the room that your child is currently attending. Brown bear Children’s Center has an open-door policy and you are welcome to drop by anytime.

2. Parental input regarding center procedures or the program itself is always welcome. All suggestions and comments are taken into consideration as program changes are made. Parents will receive an explanation regarding suggestions that have not been implemented into the program.

3. A progress report for each child will be completed and filed every six months. At this time, you may have the opportunity to discuss the report with your child’s main caregiver. Infants’ and children with disabilities progress reports are competed and filed every three months. Progress reports address the development and growth of the child including but not limited to the developmental domains of Cognitive, Social/Emotional, Language and Fine and Gross Motor and Life Skills. Any significant development or special needs regarding your child will be discussed with you as soon as possible.

4. You may request a conference with teachers for any reason at any time. We will accommodate such requests as quickly as possible.

5. If you would like to send in a special treat to help celebrate your child’s birthday, we are more than happy to serve it. Cupcakes, Hoodsies, brownies, and cookies are just some suggestions.

6. Brown Bear Children’s Center hosts a few holiday parties for the children during the year. If you would like to volunteer to bring goodies, napkins, juice, cups, etc., please let us know!

CENTER OPERATIONS

PAYMENTS & HOLIDAYS

Tuition is charged for 51 weeks each year including holidays, snow days, and when your child is absent due to vacation or illness. If your child is dismissed early, you will be charged for your regularly scheduled day. If your child is out more than three consecutive weeks due to a planned maternity leave, half the tuition must be paid to reserve a child’s placement. These arrangements must be made four weeks in advance, with a written note to the Director. Tuition payments are due on a weekly basis, by Friday, prior to childcare services beginning the next Monday. Tuition received later than Friday will be charged a $10/day late fee and childcare services may be stopped if this becomes a problem. When signing up for the program, a $100/child registration fee is required to hold your child’s spot, along with four weeks tuition. We will hold two re-enrollment periods throughout the year, one for summer enrollment and another for fall enrollment. A $50/child summer registration fee is due when we hold summer registration, along with the first week of summer tuition. A $50/child fall registration fee is due at the time of fall registration, along with the first week of fall tuition. Registration fees and the weeks tuitions are non-refundable. Proceeds from registration fees are used to update equipment and toys, host special visitors and host extracurriculars at the center. There will be a $30 charge for returned checks from the bank. If this should occur more than two times, tuition will need to be paid by cash or money order. Brown Bear Children’s Center is closed for the following holidays:

New Year’s Day Martin Luther King Day

President’s Day Good Friday Patriots Day

Memorial Day Independence Day

Labor Day Columbus Day Veteran’s Day

Thanksgiving Day Day after Thanksgiving

If a holiday falls on a Saturday, the Friday before will be considered the holiday. Likewise, if a holiday falls on a Sunday, the Monday after will be considered the holiday. A complete list of holidays with current dates will be handed out to the parents each year.

Brown Bear is also closed two weeks per year to allow for staff vacations as well as improvements and maintenance to the center. We are closed the last week in August and the week of Christmas. Tuition is NOT DUE for summer vacation in August. However, tuition IS DUE for Christmas vacation in December, as well as for the above listed holidays.

AVOIDANCE OF TERMINATION

Brown Bear makes every effort to avoid termination of a child from our program due to challenging behavior. The procedures to avoid suspension and termination include:

1. We will provide an opportunity to meet with parents to discuss options other than suspension or termination.

2. We will offer referrals to parents for evaluation, diagnostic or therapeutic services.

3. We will pursue options for supportive services to the program, including consultation and educator training.

4. We will help develop a plan for behavioral intervention at home and in the program.

• If we choose to suspend or terminate a child for any reason, we will provide written documentation to the parents of the specific reasons for the proposed suspension or termination of the child, and the circumstances under which the child may return, if any.

SOCIAL SERVICES REFERRAL PLAN Brown Bear Children’s Center shall implement the following procedures for referring parents to appropriate social, mental health, educational and medical services, including vision, dental and hearing, for their child. Should the center staff feel that an assessment for such services is necessary to the child’s well-being, the parent will be notified in writing. REFERRAL PROCESS: All staff concerns regarding the development, behavior, or well-being of any child will be reviewed by the designated administrator. Upon the administrator’s request, a teacher may be required to complete an observational log and review the child’s records prior to making a referral. The administrator will maintain a list of current referral resources in the community for children in need of social, mental health, educational or medical services. This list shall include Early Intervention Program referrals and Chapter 766. PARENT REFERRAL MEETINGS: The administrator will schedule a meeting with parents to notify them of the center’s concern and prepare a list of possible referral resources. At the meeting, the administrator will provide the parent with a written statement including the reasons for recommending a referral for additional services, a brief summary of the center’s observations related to the referral and any efforts the center may have made to accommodate the child’s needs. The administrator will offer assistance to the parents in making the referral. Parents will be encouraged to call and request an evaluation of the child. Parents may request in writing that the center contact the referral agency for them. If the child is at least 2 years 6 months, the administrator will inform the parents of the availability of services and their rights, including the right to appeal, under Chapter 766. If a child is under the age of 2 years 6 months, the administrator will inform the parents of the availability of services provided by Early Intervention programs. FOLLOW-UPS AND RECORDS: The administrator will, with parental permission, contact the agency or service provider who evaluated the child for consultation. If it is determined that the child is not in need of services from said agency, or is ineligible to receive services, the center shall review the child’s progress every three months to determine if another referral is necessary. The administrator will maintain a written record of any referrals, including the parent conference and results of all action taken. A referral checklist will be kept in the child’s file.

TERMINATION: Brown Bear Children’s Center will do all we can to make your experience within our center a positive one. We will do our best to be sensitive and

accommodating to all families’ needs; however, there are some conditions that do call for termination and suspension from our program. Enrollment at Brown Bear Children’s Center may be terminated or suspended due to the following circumstances:

1. The health and safety of your child can no longer be assured 2. Your child’s developmental needs can no longer be met 3. The health and safety of other children at the center can no longer

be assured (i.e. biting or violent behavior) 4. Chronic lateness or non-payment of tuition fees 5. Chronic lateness for pick-up after 6 PM 6. Failure to treat teachers with respect and/or professionalism 7. Failure to follow Brown Bear’s procedures, policies and regulations 8. Parents’ failure to cooperate with a referral.

Behavior that is becoming an issue will be documented in a notebook by

the child’s teacher. Parents will be informed of behaviors and, after the third inappropriate behavior, a meeting will be held to create a plan of action. If a referral is appropriate at that time, one will be provided. Two to three weeks after the meeting is held, another meeting will be held to re-visit the problem. If, despite our best efforts to resolve the issue, we cannot accommodate your child’s needs, enrollment will be terminated If at any time you wish to terminate your Parent Contract, we require four weeks written notice to be given to the Director. CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS: The above procedures apply to all children with special needs who are part of the Brown Bear program. We will make special exceptions for those individuals who require additional help and support for them to get the most out of our program. The center’s staff will complete written progress reports for children with special needs every three months. These reports will evaluate the child’s developmental progress in all areas of learning. All children with special needs will be enrolled on a 30-day trial basis. Upon enrolling a child with special needs into the program, the administrator will, with parental consent and as appropriate, request any and all information related to the child’s ability to effectively participate in Brown Bear’s program. This information may be obtained through the Local Education Agency, Early Intervention Program, or other health or service providers. This information will be used to determine if the child will benefit from what the center offers. Based upon all available information the center will, with the parent’s input, identify the specific accommodations, if any, required to meet the needs of the child while in care at Brown Bear.

If the center determines that the accommodations required to serve the child would cause an undue burden to the center and staff, the administrator will provide the parents in writing with the reasons leading to this decision. In addition, this notification will inform the parents of their right to contact the MA Department of Early Education and Care and request that they determine if the center is in compliance with State regulations. The center will maintain a copy of this notification in its records. Factors used in determining whether the accommodations required are reasonable or would cause an undue burden to the center are as follows:

1. The nature and cost of the accommodations required to provide effective care to the child.

2. The ability to secure funding or services from other sources. 3. The overall financial resources at the center. 4. The number of persons employed at the center. 5. The special training of the staff. 6. The effect on expenses and resources, or the impact otherwise of

such action upon the center.

Accommodations related to the toileting needs of a child with a disability shall not be considered an undue burden. Brown Bear will, with parental permission, participate in the development and review of the child’s Individual Education Plan in cooperation with the local Education Agency, Early Intervention Program and/or other health and service providers. Brown Bear agrees to ensure the center’s compliance with the requirements of the American’s with Disabilities Act and its regulations and guidelines. LOCAL RESOURCES:

o Community Care for Kids, Quincy 617-471-6473 o Department of Social Services, Weymouth 781-682-0800 o South Bay Mental Health 781-331-7866 o MA Department of Early Ed. & Care, Quincy 617-471-6473 o Health Care Consultant

o Leah Ricci 781-626-0587 o MA Department of Education 781-388-3300 o Dental Referral Service 800-511-8663 o South Shore Hearing Center 781-337-6860 o Family Ties, Early Intervention Coordinator 800-905-8437 o Child-at-Risk Hotline 800-792-5200

LOCK-DOWN POLICY In the event of a potential threat from an intruder inside or outside the program the director or any staff member will call emergency personnel and communicate the emergency information over the phone either via our landline phone or a personal cell phone. In addition to communicating the emergency, police presence will be requested at the center immediately. The director will notify each classroom to begin lock-down procedures. Children will remain in their individual classrooms (or if outdoors, immediately brought into their classrooms if safe to do so). All classroom doors will always remain locked, as usual. Classroom windows and doors will be covered, and lights will be turned off. Children will be directed to an area away from the doors/windows and asked to sit quietly with the teachers. Teachers will try to keep children calm and entertained with quiet activities during this procedure. Depending on the proximity of the situation, children may be directed into closet spaces, bathrooms, or the office, locking doors behind the group and keeping teachers in front of children for protection Teachers will bring attendance sheets with them to account for all children before, during, and after the emergency. Teachers will notify parents of the lock-down by phone, email, text, or social media. Lock-down will end only once we are notified by the Police and Fire Department, and all parents will be notified at this time as well.

SNOW & EMERGENCY CLOSINGS In the interest of children, parents, and staff at Brown Bear Children’s Center, hazardous weather conditions may indicate a delayed opening, early closing, or complete closing of the center. Brown Bear will close for storms with the Cohasset Public Schools on the first day of a storm. If Cohasset closes for a second day, we will make our own decision regarding whether we are able to open and at what time. Our delays or cancellations will be posted on our Facebook page as well as WHDH.com. Regular tuition payments are required for these days. In the event of loss of water, heat, power or any other emergency situation that impacts the running of the center we will make the call to close the center on a case by case basis. As always, we do our best to keep the center open, but the safety of children, families, and staff come first. These closings or delays will be posted on our Facebook page, Cohasset Brown Bear. If the closing is due to circumstances out of our control, regular tuition payments are required for these days.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES In the event of loss of water, heat or power within the center, while we are

open, the administrator will be informed. If the problem cannot be rectified within two hours, parents will be notified, and the center will close until repairs can be made. In the event of a fire or building evacuation, children will be removed from the center and brought to Cohasset High School, located on Pond Street. Parents will be notified of any evacuation as soon as possible. In the event of a natural disaster and/or an area evacuation, all Brown Bear children will be evacuated to the Cohasset High School by public school bus. The Cohasset Fire Department offers shelter only in the event of a natural disaster or state of emergency. If Cohasset High School is unavailable for any reason, the director will follow the instructions for evacuation from the local emergency management authorities. The children will be evacuated according to posted escape routes and will exit by following lit exit signs in each classroom. During and after evacuation, the director, along with the teachers, will do a head count according to daily attendance sheets to ensure that no child was left behind. The director will keep in contact with the fire department and other authorities via cell phone. The director will also make phone calls to parents from her cell phone with parent phone numbers listed on emergency release forms located in the attendance binders. If possible, teachers will help make these phone calls to parents. All attempts will be made to contact parents and keep them informed of their children’s whereabouts. Teachers and the director will stay with the children in the event of an evacuation until such time that their parents can pick them up.

To help in preparation for an emergency, monthly evacuation drills will be held during different times of the program day, using alternative exits. The director will document the date, time, exit route used, number of children evacuated and effectiveness of each drill in a log. Infants will be evacuated according to plan in evacuation cribs which will be inspected to be sure that they are safe for evacuation, that they are easily movable, and to be sure that they will fit through all exit doors.

PROCEDURE FOR EVACUATION In case of emergency and the center needs to be evacuated, each group will follow evacuation instructions in each classroom. Teachers will evacuate the children through Brown Bear’s exterior doors. They will walk along the walkway into the fenced in play area and await further instructions from the Director(s). The crib marked “emergency” will be used to evacuate the infants, and any others who require assistance. Teachers will take with them the attendance sheet with the recorded time of arrival and departure of each child. Monthly fire drills will be held to help prepare for an emergency situation. Drills will be held at different times of the program day and will use alternative exits. The drills will be documented including the date, time, exit route used, number of children evacuated, and effectiveness of each drill.

TRANSPORTATION PLAN Brown Bear Children’s Center does not provide transportation to or from the center. Children at Brown Bear do not walk to or from the center. Completed transportation forms with parents’ signatures confirm children’s modes of transportation to and from the center and are located in each child’s file. In an emergency at Brown Bear, children will be transported by police cars or ambulances and/or town school busses. Children must be accompanied by an adult when entering and exiting the building. A parent/guardian must bring their child into the child’s appropriate classroom and sign them in and out each day. Teachers are not responsible for children until the parent physically leaves the classroom.

REST PERIOD Brown Bear has a scheduled nap time each day. Infants sleep as needed, according to their schedule.

HEALTH

SICK POLICY Brown Bear Children’s Center is committed to providing a safe, healthy environment for all children, families, and staff members here at our center. In accordance with state regulation we have implemented documentation of illnesses that will warrant temporary exclusion from our program. We understand that we are not medical professionals and cannot diagnose any illnesses or behaviors that warrant exclusion from our program. Staff members will use our sick policy as a guideline for decisions concerning exclusion. Please remember that all decisions are made to assure the welfare of your child as well as the others at the center. Exclusion symptoms include, but are not limited to the following:

FEVER A fever of 100.4 or higher

DIARRHEA Three or more watery stools within four hours. Two or more watery stools, if accompanied by other symptoms of illness or cannot be contained by diapers or controlled by toilet use, or if stool contains blood or mucus, or if accompanied by a fever

VOMITING One or more episodes of vomiting

COLD Breathing difficulties, severe cough and/or other obvious symptoms of a respiratory illness

EAR INFECTION Extreme pain in ear, redness in and/or discharge from ear

CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE)

Symptoms include swollen, irritated, red, oozing eyes, which may become encrusted during sleep

SKIN CONDITIONS Impetigo, Ringworm, Scabies, and Unknown Rashes

HEAD LICE This applies to lice and/or nits

VACCINE PREVENTABLE ILLNESSES

Measles, German measles, Mumps, Rubella, Chicken Pox, etc.

CONTAGIOUS ILLNESSES Strep throat, chicken pox, RSV, etc.

If your child should exhibit any of the previously stated symptoms while in our care, you will be called by a staff member and asked to pick them up. We are sympathetic to the inconvenience of being called away from work; however, our job is to prevent the spread of illness within the center.

Return criteria is as follows:

FEVER Must be fever free without the assistance of medication for at least 24 hours

DIARRHEA Must be diarrhea free for at least 24 hours

VOMITING Must be vomit free for at least 24 hours

NOROVIRUS Must be symptom (vomiting, diarrhea, fever, etc.) free for at least 48 hours

EAR INFECTION Free of symptoms that require excessive individual attention

CONJUNCTIVITIS Must be medically treated for at least 24 hours and a minimum of 2 dosages of eye medication

SKIN CONDITIONS Any rash must have a written statement of non-contagion from a physician.

HEAD LICE Must be medically treated along with any siblings that attend Brown Bear Children’s Center. All children must be nit/lice free.

VACCINE PREVENTABLE ILLNESSES

Must have a written statement of non-contagion from a physician

STREP THROAT May return 24 hours after treatment begins AND child has had a normal temperature for 24 hours

CHICKEN POX All lesions must be scabbed over (usually 7 days after initial breakout)

CONTAGIOUS ILLNESSES May return with a written statement of non-contagion from a physician.

*If your child exhibits any of these symptoms while in our care and is sent home sick, they must be out of school for a full day before returning. This means that if your child is sent home at 10 AM on Tuesday, they may not return until Thursday. You will receive the following set of return guidelines when you come to pick up your child. We provide these guidelines to further explain to you the temporary exclusion from our program and when your child may return to the center. These guidelines have been developed in conjunction with our Health Care Consultant and MA State Regulations. You will be asked to sign the guidelines at pick-up to prevent any misunderstandings. If a parent cannot be reached, emergency contacts will be contacted.

*If your child returns with a statement from a physician yet requires one-on-one care or seems excessively uncomfortable, we reserve the right to send them home again.

RETURN GUIDELINES Child’s Name:_____________________________________________________ Date & Time:______________________________________________________ Your child is being sent home for the following reason(s): *Please note-Per the recommendation of the Board of Health, your child must be out for a full school day before returning to childcare unless accompanied by a note from his/her pediatrician. This applies to all the following: According to our sick policy your child may return: _____ After being fever free, without the assistance of medication, for at least 24 hours. _____ After being diarrhea free for at least 24 hours. _____ After being vomit free for at least 24 hours. _____ After being free of all Norovirus symptoms (if diagnosed) for 48 hours. _____ After being medically treated for at least 24 hours. _____ Other— A statement from your physician is required upon return: yes_____ no_____ I have read and understand these return guidelines for my child. ____________________________________________ __________________ Parent Signature Date

PROCEDURE FOR ILLNESS Children who have already been admitted into the center for the day that manifest symptoms requiring exclusion from the program will be isolated away from the other children until their parents/guardians arrive. Children will be provided with a covered mat, blanket, pillow, and book or toy. Individual needs for food, drink, rest, play materials, etc., will be provided by a staff member. When the child has been picked up, the area of occupancy will be washed and disinfected. Symptoms for exclusion have been listed in Brown Bear’s Sick Policy.

EMERGENCY HEALTH CARE PROCEDURE

When a situation arises and a child needs immediate medical attention, 911 is called by a staff member requesting ambulance assistance. The staff member will provide information regarding the nature of the situation, the age of the child, and the address of the center. The staff member will stay on the line until needed. While the fire department is being called another trained staff member will administer first aid or CPR as needed. A staff member will notify parents and inform them that their child is being transported to South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, MA. If the parents cannot be reached, an emergency contact person will be notified, and the child will be transported to South Shore Hospital via ambulance, accompanied by a staff member. The staff member will take with them the child’s file with the medical release form, to the hospital. Our policy requires teachers to carry medical release forms for all the children attending that day. In case of emergency, the teacher will stay with the child until parents or ambulance arrives. If offsite, each child will carry on his/her person the name, address and telephone number of Brown Bear. If an emergency is to occur offsite, a staff member will call 911 to address the situation. Once settled, the staff member will contact the center for back-up help if necessary. Either the staff member or someone at the center will contact the child’s parents and the above emergency procedures will take place. All staff members are trained and certified in First Aid and CPR.

MEDICATION

Any person who administers prescription or non-prescription medication at

Brown Bear must be trained to verify and to document that the right child receives the proper dosage of the correct medication designated for that particular child and given at the correct time(s), and by the proper method. All staff members will have training in medication administration will be present at any and all times while children are in care. Each person who administers any medication, other than oral or topical medications and epinephrine auto-injectors, must be trained by a licensed health care practitioner and must demonstrate annually to the satisfaction of the trainer, competency in the administration of such medications. Every staff member, including those not trained to administer medication, will receive training in recognizing common side effects of specific medications being administered in the program.

Brown Bear will only administer prescription medication when an authorization for medication form is filled out and signed by the parent of the child in question. If your child is prescribed an epi pen, they are required to have and Individual Health Care Plan (IHCP) on file. The IHCP must be filled out by your child’s physician and signed by them and you. Without up to date IHCP’s on file your child will not be accepted into care. Prescription medication forms include the name of the child, the name of the medication, amount to administer, time to administer, the date, and the parent’s signature. The staff member administering the medication will log the date, time and amount onto the form and then sign their full name. medication authorization forms, when completed, are kept in the child’s file. Parents must initially sign in medication by filling out and signing the necessary form. The medication is required to be in its original container with the child’s name, date, name of medication, physician’s name, amount and administering and storing instructions. Medication will only be administered according to the directions on the original container unless authorized in writing by the child’s licensed health care practitioner. Non-prescription medication such as Tylenol or cough medicine will only be administered to a child if it is authorized by a physician. Parents may sign a standing order to administer non-prescription medication. All standing orders must also be signed by a doctor and must be updated yearly. Any non-prescription medication that is not listed on the standing order form must be accompanied by a note from the child’s physician as well as an authorization form. The child’s parents will be notified by phone before administering any non-prescription medication. Brown Bear will not administer the first dose of any medication to a child. All unused or expired medication will be returned to the parents. If return to the parent is not possible or practical, medications will be destroyed and the destruction recorded by the director in accordance with the policies of the licensee and the Department of Public Health, Drug Control Program.

All medication is kept in a locked closet or refrigerated if necessary, yet in either case is kept out of the reach of the children. The only exception to this is

epi-pens which are kept out of the reach of children but are readily available to teachers in an emergency. Brown Bear will also apply topical non-prescription medications such as sunscreen, petroleum jelly, or other ointments only when accompanied by a standing order signed by parents. This authorization form is valid for one year. If we become aware of certain symptoms which appear to be spreading throughout the center, we will notify all parents. All parents will be notified in writing when their child has been directly exposed to any contagious diseases; all other parents will be informed of the presence of contagious illnesses by postings. Brown Bear reserves the right to alter this policy to control the spread of illness.

If we become aware of certain symptoms that appear to be spreading

throughout the center, we will notify all parents. Brown Bear Children’s Center reserves the right to alter this policy in any attempt to control the spread of illness. Any condition that warrants continuous individualized attention, to the extent that it interferes with normal classroom routine and/or activities will mandate exclusion from the program.

INDIVIDUAL HEALTH CARE PLAN (IHCP)

Brown Bear will maintain as a part of each child’s record, an individual health care plan for each child with a chronic medical condition, which has been diagnosed by a licensed health care practitioner. The plan will describe the chronic condition, it’s symptoms, any medical treatment that may be necessary while that child is in care, the potential side effects of that treatment, and the potential consequences to the child’s health if the treatment is not administered.

Brown Bear may administer routine, scheduled medication or treatment to the child with a chronic medical condition in accordance with written parental consent and licensed health care practitioner authorization.

o The staff member administering the medication/treatment must have successfully completed medical training that specifically addresses the child’s medical condition, medication, and other treatment needs.

o In addition to the normal requirements for administering medication, if any unanticipated administration of medication or unanticipated treatment for a non-life-threatening condition is necessary, the staff member to administer such medication must make a reasonable attempt to contact the parent(s) prior to administering that medication. If the parent(s) cannot be reached in advance, the staff member will reach the parent(s) as soon as possible after administration.

o The staff member must document all medication or treatment administration, whether scheduled or unanticipated, in the child’s medication and treatment log.

o The written parental consent and the licensed health care practitioner authorization is valid for one year, unless withdrawn sooner. Such

consent and authorization must be renewed annually for administration of medication and/or treatment to continue.

TOILETING

1. Regular toileting times will be made available within each group at

transition times such as meals and snacks, outdoor play, and before and after nap.

2. In addition, any child may request to use the bathroom at any time. The child will be supervised.

3. When a toileting accident occurs, the child will be assisted with cleaning him or herself and dressed in a set of dry clothing. Soiled clothes will be double bagged and put in the child’s cubby, set apart from other items to be taken home. Staff members will notify parents if another set of extra clothes is needed in the child’s cubby.

4. We understand that children in the process of potty training need extra reminders and attention throughout the day. Staff members are always willing and ready to work with you to help introduce toileting to your child. Children should have several changes of clothes because accidents will occur.

5. Children and staff wash hands with liquid soap and running water, before and after meals, and after contact with bodily fluid. Individual paper towels are available to dry hands.

6. No child will ever be verbally abused, punished, or humiliated for soiling, wetting, or not using the toilet.

7. Our Pre-K program does not provide a diapering surface. Therefore, to move to this classroom they must be potty trained. If they are not trained, they will be able to remain in the Pre-School room. If they are new to the center, we will offer a spot in Pre-School if spacing allows.

DIAPERING

1. Parents must always keep a daily supply of diapers and wipes at Brown Bear . Staff will notify parents when their child’s supply is low.

2. Steps for Diapering: a. Staff will wash hands with liquid soap and running water,

then apply gloves b. Staff will place a clean protective covering on the diaper

surface. The diapering surface will be smooth, intact, waterproof, and cushioned.

c. Staff will prepare all items for diapering such as diapers, wipes, and creams or medicines designated by parents.

d. Staff will change each child with their own diapers, wipes, creams, or medicines that have been designated by parents.

e. Staff will not use a child’s lotions or wipes on another child. f. While changing the child, staff will keep one hand on the

child to prevent him or her from falling. Staff will use this time to interact with the child.

g. Following diapering, staff will dispose of the soiled diaper and covering in a covered, lined diaper bucket.

h. After changing, staff will wash and dry each child’s hands. i. Staff will wash hands thoroughly with liquid soap and

running water. j. The changing surface will be cleaned with a disinfectant

solution after each use. The solution is made fresh daily. The changing surface will not be used for any other purpose.

3. One staff member of each group will be designated to maintain the changing area.

4. Staff will keep track of diaper changes daily and make parents aware of this information at the end of the day. Diapers will be changed regularly when soiled or wet.

Staff will work in conjunction with parents when their child begins toilet training. Training will be viewed as simply another routine of the day and will be encouraged but not forced upon the child. Staff is asked to remind children to flush the toilet, wash hands, and throw away paper towels in the trash. Staff will also maintain the cleanliness of the bathroom areas as well as keep a stocked supply of paper goods and soap. Soiled clothing from accidents cannot be washed at the center. Clothes will be placed in double plastic bags and set home with the child.

NUTRITION . Meals and snacks are not provided by the center. All Pre-Toddlers, Toddlers, Preschoolers, and Pre-Kindergartners are required to eat breakfast and dinner at home. Infants will be fed in accordance with parent instructions. A nutritious lunch should be brought in each day in a clearly marked bag or lunch box with an icepack enclosed. A morning and afternoon snack should also be brought from home labeled with the child’s name and placed in the appropriate AM & PM buckets in each classroom. Brown Bear is a “peanut free” environment. Due to potential allergies in some children, we cannot allow peanut butter or any peanut butter product in the center. If for some reason you forget your child’s lunch, Brown Bear will do all it can to provide a nutritious lunch for your child. Children are always encouraged to eat their main meal and healthy snack prior to any treats. All staff members are trained in USDA nutritional guidelines. Some suggestions for lunches are as follows: MAIN MEAL: Sliced Lunch Meat Pasta Tuna Fish Grilled Cheese Soup Pizza Chicken Nuggets SNACKS: Fresh/Canned Fruit Apple Sauce Crackers/Pretzels Yogurt Raisins Granola Bars Please minimize candy, cookies, cakes and highly sugared sweets.

PROGRAMS

DAILY SCHEDULES Daily schedules are posted in each room. These are used as general guidelines throughout the day. We provide constant care and implement strict standards for cleanliness to ensure the health and safety of your child. We provide children with an experience in arts and crafts, music, large motor activities, fine motor activities, cognitive activities, and free play each and every day. Science activities and multi-cultural experiences are also integrated into the program.

INFANT ROOM Here at Brown Bear Children’s Center, our infant program sets its pace around the needs and unique differences of each child. Routines are the curriculum for an infant’s day and every moment offers an opportunity for learning. Teachers in the infant room help each child to establish trust, tackle motor skills, realize the power of language, and begin to understand their new surroundings. Daily grams are filled out each day and sent home to provide parents with information about your child’s day. WHAT TO BRING FROM HOME:

• Baby food, labeled with child’s name

• Baby bottles, prepared by parents, labeled

• Disposable diapers and wipes, labeled on box

• 2 portable-crib sized sheets, and 1 sleep sack.

• 2 changes of clothing

• 2 pacifiers, if used, labeled

• Completed feeding and sleeping schedules *We do not allow the sleeping of infants in car seats, swings, bouncy seats, etc.

PRE-TODDLER ROOM

The pre-toddler room is a transitional space for children where teachers assist the children in beginning a daily schedule. The teacher in this room prepares age appropriate activities and helps children master some basic skills such as sitting up at a table to eating on their own. Children are also given the opportunity to explore and grow while investigating the world around them. Daily grams are filled out and sent home each day. WHAT TO BRING FROM HOME:

• Sippy cups of milk/juice/water, labeled (cups must have a cover or a straw that is able to be snapped closed)

• Lunch complete with nutritious main meal and snacks, labeled

• AM & PM snacks, labeled

• A nap mat/blanket, labeled

• 2 changes of clothing

• Appropriate clothing for outdoor conditions

• Disposable diapers and wipes, labeled on box

TODDLER ROOM

The toddler years of a child’s life are ones of phenomenal growth; all the senses are brought into full play. Children are continuously investigating their environment by observing, touching, listening, smelling and tasting. Our teachers prepare developmentally appropriate activities to foster positive growth and development in each child. Children are encouraged to work independently, given freedom to repeat activities, and allowed time to be an observer before becoming a participant in any activity. Children are provided with a safe nurturing environment that invites creativity, exploration and new adventures each day. Daily grams are filled out and sent home each day to provide parents with information about their child’s day. WHAT TO BRING FROM HOME:

• Lunch box complete with lunch and drink, labeled

• AM & PM snacks, labeled

• Sippy cup, if needed (cups must have a cover or a straw that is able to be snapped closed)

• 2 changes of clothing

• Appropriate clothing for outdoor conditions

• Disposable diapers or pull-ups and wipes, labeled on box

• A nap mat/blanket, labeled

PRESCHOOL ROOM Brown Bear Children’s Center has developed a preschool program that allows children the opportunity for self-directed activities that encourage choice, decision making, and independence. Our curriculum provides opportunity for free play as well as teacher directed activities that introduce children to letters, numbers, colors and shapes. Teachers in the preschool room strive to teach children acceptable behavior, competence, control, and respect for others while providing a creative and expressive environment for the children to thrive in. WHAT TO BRING FROM HOME:

• Lunch box complete with lunch and drink, labeled

• AM & PM snacks, labeled

• Water cup (cups must have a cover or a straw that is able to be snapped closed)

• Change of clothes, labeled (2 if potty training)

• Disposable diapers or pull-ups and wipes, labeled, if necessary

• Appropriate clothing for outdoor play

• A nap mat/blanket, labeled

PRE-KINDERGARTEN ROOM

At Brown Bear we feel confident that pre-kindergarten program will prepare your child socially, emotionally, and academically for their kindergarten year. Our pre-kindergarten curriculum allows children the opportunity to develop independent learning skills, as well as the opportunity for large group, developmentally appropriate activities that will help your child with their listening, cooperation, and sharing skills. WHAT TO BRING FROM HOME:

• Lunch box complete with lunch and drink, labeled

• AM & PM snacks, labeled

• Water cup (cups must have a cover or a straw that is able to be snapped closed)

• Change of clothes, labeled

• Appropriate clothing for outdoor play

• A nap mat/blanket, labeled

TRANSITIONS

When children reach the age when they are ready to move to the next classroom, parents will receive a transition notice for their child. The notice will list any different supplies needed for the next classroom, along with the new teachers’ names, date that the child will begin their new schedule in the new classroom, and new daily tuition rate for the new room. Children will be introduced to the next classroom and the teachers for a few weeks leading up to their move. They will be able to spend some time getting used to the classroom, new children and teachers each day that they come, starting with a few hours in the morning, extending through lunch, and eventually spending an entire day (or days depending on their comfort level) in their new classroom. If at any time during the transition period, the child wants to return to their normal classroom, they may do so. Parents will have the opportunity to meet the new teachers, view the classroom, and learn about any new activities/schedules for the new room during the transition time. Once the transition time is over, children will begin their new routine on the agreed upon date listed on the transition letter. Teachers and directors will make every effort to ensure a smooth transition for each child. To transition to Pre-School potty training is not required, however due to lack of a changing facility in Pre-K, a child will remain in Pre-School until potty trained.

SAFETY

UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS During staff orientation the Director(s) train(s) all staff members in universal precautions. Disposable gloves are in all rooms. In the Infant, Pre-Toddler, Toddler, and Preschool Rooms, they are located by the changing areas. In the pre-kindergarten room, they are located by the sinks. Whenever a child is bleeding or bodily fluids need to be cleaned, a teacher will wear disposable gloves which are then disposed of in a lined container. Teachers wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after cleaning blood or any other bodily fluids. Bloody or soiled clothes are sealed in a plastic container or bag labeled with the child’s name and returned to parents at the end of the day.

FIRST AID EQUIPMENT

A first aid kit is in each room and clearly labeled for location. All teachers are trained and certified in first aid and CPR. First aid kits are maintained and stocked by the Director(s) and items include: adhesive tape, band-aids, compress bandage, gauze roll bandage, gauze pads, disposable latex gloves, instant cold pack, scissors, tweezers, and thermometer. A monthly check list is completed when all fist aid kids are replenished.

INJURY PREVENTION

Brown Bear Children’s Center conducts safety inspections of all equipment inside the Center and on the playground daily. Broken or damaged equipment is repaired immediately or put away. Hazards are removed immediately. Liquids, foods, and appliances that are or become hot enough to burn a child will be kept out of the reach of children. All toxic substances, cleaning supplies, medications, First Aid supplies, sharp objects, and matches are kept in locked cabinets to be inaccessible to the children. Brown Bear Children’s Center is a non-smoking environment, alcohol and substance free center. This policy is strictly enforced. Brown Bear maintains a central injury log for the center where all injuries are recorded. This is done to monitor Brown Bear’s safety record and also identify problem areas. Staff are also required to fill out incident reports for all injuries. These reports include the child’s name, date, time of incident, type of injury, location of injury, how it occurred, and recommendations or precautions. Accident reports are signed by the staff member who administered first aid/medical care, administrator, and the parent.

In addition, the following items are easily and readily available to staff members at the center and these items are brought along if children leave the center in the care of staff:

• A first aid kit

• Current family contact information

• Information about allergies and known medical conditions

• Emergency or life-saving medications, such as asthma inhalers and epinephrine auto-injectors, for any children for whom they have been prescribed

• Telephone numbers for emergency services

• Authorization for emergency care for each child Staff members will check children’s clothing daily to ensure that it is free from strings, laces and jewelry that could become entangled or wedged in playground equipment and present a strangulation hazard. In addition, staff members will protect children against cold, heat and sun injury with proper clothing, sunscreen, availability of cold fluids, and limiting outside time when necessary.

MANAGEMENT OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE In trying to control infectious disease, staff and children wash their hands frequently during the day, using running water, liquid soap, and disposable towels. Staff and children wash their hands before eating or handling food, after toileting or diapering, after encountering bodily fluids and discharges (runny nose), and after cleaning. The following equipment is washed and disinfected after each use: diapering areas, toys mouthed by children, mops used for cleaning bodily fluids, bibs, thermometers, cribs, and crib sheets. The following equipment is washed and disinfected daily: toilets and toilet seats, containers holding soiled diapers, sinks and faucets, water table, play equipment, play tables, smooth surfaced nonporous floors, mops used for cleaning, wash cloths, and towels. The following equipment is disinfected weekly or more frequently as needed: mats, sheets, blankets, machine washable toys. The center uses a bleach mixtures per state regulations for sanitizing and disinfecting. Disinfectants are kept in spray bottles out of the reach of children.

CHILDREN’S ALLERGIES & MEDICAL CONDITIONS All children’s allergies are posted in each room. Staff members are familiar with all children’s allergies and make sure children do not encounter or eat anything they are allergic to. All children with an allergy must have an updated and complete Individual Health Care Plan on file and re-done yearly in order to be accepted into care. Other serious medical conditions will be posted in each classroom and told to all staff members. This is to ensure the safety of the student while in our care. Some medical conditions do require an Individual Health Care Plan filled out by a physician and kept on file and re-done yearly.

MANDATED REPORTERS All the Brown Bear staff members are mandated reporters of suspected child abuse and/or neglect. We must report if we have reasonable cause to believe that a child is suffering from serious physical or emotional injury resulting from abuse inflicted upon them, including sexual abuse. We are mandated to report if we believe that a child is suffering from neglect, including malnutrition, or if a child is physically dependant upon an addicting drug at birth. Indicators of child neglect are lack of supervision, lack of adequate clothing and/or good hygiene, lack of medical or dental care, lack of adequate education, and lack of adequate shelter. Some physical indicators of child abuse are; bruises and welts, burns, cuts, tears or scrapes, head injuries, and injuries to the stomach area. Once a child has been suspected of neglect and/or abuse, the center will call Social Services at 1-800-423-2338. Reports to DSS must be made within 24 hours with a written report in 48 hours. In the event that the center needs to file a 51A report, or the center learns that a 51A report has been filed alleging abuse or neglect of a child in the care of the center during a related activity, the center shall immediately notify the Department of Early Education and Care. The center shall cooperate in all investigations of abuse or neglect including, identifying parents of children enrolled in the center, providing consent for disclosure to EEC information form, and allowing EEC to disclose information. The Department of Early Education and Care may specify as necessary to prompt investigation of allegations and the protection of children to any person and/or agency. Failure to cooperate may be grounds for suspension, revocation, or refusal to issue or renew the center’s license. Should a staff member be suspected of child abuse or neglect, that staff member will be suspended from their job and will not be permitted to work directly with children until DSS completes the investigation and for such further time as EED requires. Termination of the staff member may occur if it is found there is cause for the allegations.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

LATE FEES Brown Bear Children’s Center is open Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 6 PM. Our hours are designed to fit the working parents’ schedule. However, early drop-off and late pick-up will not be tolerated. We realize that unavoidable situations do occur from time to time, so we ask that if you are running late, please make every effort to call and inform us. A late fee of $1.00 per minute, per child, per teacher will be charged and is due at the time of pick-up to the teachers who stay with your child. Chronic lateness will not be tolerated and may be grounds for termination from the program. Tuition is due by Friday, prior to childcare services beginning the next Monday. Tuition received later than Friday will be charged a $10/day late fee and childcare services may be stopped. A $30 fee will be applied if a check must be returned. Brown Bear Children’s Center reserves the right to change rates and fees at any time in order to thrive as a successful business in a growing competitive market. Brown Bear’s daily rates are as follows:

AGE GROUP 5 days/week 3 & 4 days/week 2 days/week

Infant Room $88 $90 $93

Young Toddler Room $86 $88 $91

Toddler 2 Room $84 $85 $88

Preschool & Pre-Kindergarten Rooms

$78 $80 $83

Full day hours are anywhere between the hours of 7 AM and 6 PM.

CLOSING STATEMENT Brown Bear Children’s Center is a full-service childcare center. We are committed to providing safe, high-quality childcare in an environment where children can develop socially, emotionally, and cognitively to their full potential. We look forward to meeting with you and your child and welcome you to our Brown Bear family.