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IntroductionWe welcome you and your family to Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre. We are looking forward to a positive and productive year with you.

Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre is a two unit centre offering a 5 day fortnight program in Kindergarten (4 -5 year olds) and a 2 day program in Pre-Kindy (3-4 year olds).

Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre has a varied history with beginnings dated approximately 20 years ago. Due to various government funding models across the years, the Kindergarten maintained a positive and supportive relationship with the Caloundra Christian College. However from 2012 Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre is now a service under the Approved Provider of Caloundra Christian College Ltd; trading

as Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre from January 1st 2015. The Kindy is part of the Caloundra Christian College Early Childhood Unit (P-K-Yr2) which operates under a Play-Based curriculum, incorporating current research on whole-brain learning.

Our Kindergarten maintains an open enrolment policy, with places available to all families. We provide an educational, play based curriculum drawn from the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines.

The building, grounds and equipment meet the high standards set by The Office for Early Childhood Education and Care.

From 2012 our service will be quality rated and assessed by the OECEC against the National Quality Standards and Framework for all Early Childhood Services. A Compliance History Log Book is maintained and kept on the premises and parents and guardians

have the right to inspect this document upon request to the Director.

CALOUNDRA CHRISTIAN COLLEGE EARLY

LEARNING CENTRE

Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre is proudly funded and supported by the Queensland Government.

Key Contact Information

Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre

Kindy: 5436 6797 Pre-Kindy/OKHC/Vac Care:

5436 6798 fax: 5491 5103

email:kindy@calcc.qld.edu.au

Office for Early Childhood Education and Care Ph: 137 468 ECIS

Ph: 5352 9910 Regional Dept Direct: 13 74 68

Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre is licensed by the Office for Early Childhood Education and Care under the Education and CareServices National Regulations and the Education and Care services National Law (Queensland) Act 2011. The centre must meet the requirements about activities, experiences and programs, numbers of staff members and children, and staff members’ qualifications according to the legislation and funding criteria.

2018

TEACHING AND LEARNING

At Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre, we view the Kindergarten year and the Pre- Kindergarten year as important stepping-stones for future educational experiences. We seek to create life-long learners who are curious, ask questions, take learning risks and learn from their mistakes as well as their successes. Each child’s unique perspective and learning needs are considered as we recognise that each child joins us with their own personal and cultural experiences. We acknowledge the value and importance of the partnership we have with families in fostering each child’s personal growth. We offer a play-based curriculum. Research has shown play is the best "exercise for the brain" because it provides the most appropriate stimulus for brain development. Children in all cultures are pre-programmed to learn about the world through play. It is the natural way for them to discover, create and learn to become critical, independent thinkers while experiencing all the joy and delights of childhood. With this in mind, we aim to provide lengthy blocks of time and a wide range of resources, to play, create and explore safely. The “Early Years Study” commissioned by the Government of Ontario, Canada, concluded: "Play-based problem-solving with other children and an adult is an early learning strategy that has a crucial effect on early brain development and should be the format for children entering the school system.” Play-based, learning environments offer diverse opportunities to explore, discover and create. It fosters qualities such as curiosity, perseverance and risk taking, to name a few. It is believed that these qualities motivate lifelong learners but are difficult to invoke if not self-discovered when young.

QUALITY LEARNING EXPERIENCES We believe children are active, capable and competent learners, making discoveries through interactions with people, objects, symbols and ideas. Our educators and teachers set up the learning environment, giving careful consideration to space and resources. We provide appropriate blocks of time; play activities and learning experiences, designed for ultimate learning to occur. A high level of attention is given to the quality of teacher interactions, as we understand the significant impact that quality interactions have on children’s levels of involvement in their learning experiences and learning outcomes. We recognize that through quality interactions, such as thoughtful questioning and posing of ideas, teachers and children jointly construct learning as they collaboratively investigate, explore and build on ideas and thinking. These purposeful interactions provide opportunity for teachers to build connections between the here and now, to children’s prior, and future learning. These discoveries become meaningful and relevant and meet each child at their own stage and level of understanding.

When interacting with children, our educators focus on: •responding to and building on children’s interests, ideas and intentions •inviting children to wonder, imagine and enquire •building the intellectual quality of learning experiences •promoting children’s learning and development progress •extending their own and others’ understanding of local cultural practices and ways of knowing, being and learning to build continuity in learning •educating children surrounding sustainable practices •negotiating learning pathways with children that are culturally and contextually relevant •collaboratively planning and reflecting on learning with children •building children’s positive dispositions towards learning. •facilitating access and participation for all learners.

A LEARNING COMMUNITY It is believed that an old African proverb states that; “it takes a village to raise a child”. It is our belief that we are a community of learners, gathering information and resources from all available sources in our local community, including local professionals, and emergency services. For example; in the past

we have had visits from the local council, health professionals, fire and rescue services, ambulance and police officers to name a few. Of course one of our most valuable resources are our families, parents and grandparents. Families can enhance our understanding of other cultures and ways of being and doing, simply by sharing recipes and cooking experiences, and relevant stories of home life and/or other cultures and languages. Our aim is that each child and family will feel valued and respected in the life of our community. We will take every action and pre-caution in order that every

child in our care feels safe, valued, listened to and respected during all interactions with staff, visitors and families. As a part of Caloundra Christian College we have access to facilities and a chain of management that we value. Principal, Mark Hodges and Julie Lockyer, Head of Primary, along with Beryl Hastie, Business Manager must work closely with the Director and staff at our Kindy to ensure a positive relationship that enhances continual improvement and the smooth running of our service for all stakeholders. CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT In order to reflect this policy in practice we maintain the following strategies to ensure continuous improvement takes place: •Parent consultation via surveys and family/child info pages and parent/staff conversations. •Staff reflective practices via staff meetings, professional development, everyday reflective discussions and scheduled professional dialogue. •Child consultation via whole group, small group and individual learning conversations.

At Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre we offer a Christ-Centered curriculum, building on our approved curriculum – The Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines. Representing the Christian community, our Christian staff, look for opportunities throughout our learning and sharing experiences to share God’s love and assist children to discover the wonderful earth that God created for us to enjoy.

Statement of Philosophy

It is our aim that each child leaves our centre with a genuine desire to learn and work with others to achieve shared goals. We encourage each child to be a life-long learner, recognising that we never stop learning and finding out new things, even as adults. It is our prayer that each family we have the privilege of sharing our Kindy journey with, will experience God’s love and grace.

Curriculum As an approved Kindergarten Program Provider, we employ the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines. The Queensland Kindergarten learning guideline supports Kindergarten teachers’ professional practice in a range of contexts across Queensland. The guideline is based on the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia (EYLF) and embraces the inclusive vision that “all children experience learning that is engaging and builds success for life”.

Throughout the Kindergarten Year, children’s right to experience the joy of childhood is fundamental and learning is promoted through play, and emergent and planned learning experiences and interactions.

The guideline recognises that parents are children’s first educators and values the vital role parents, carers and family members play in children’s lives and their ongoing learning. The term “families”, throughout the guideline, recognises the range of people who take on parenting roles and build close and supportive relationships with children in their home environments.

Teachers create a quality Kindergarten program when they draw together advice in the guideline with their professional knowledge and understanding about children’s interests, ideas and intentions, and parent, family and community priorities and contexts.

The Engaged Child Children are active learners who make sense of their world and themselves when they have opportunities to investigate and explore materials and ideas through play and interactions with people. Learning occurs as part of the social and cultural interactions between children and teachers, parents, families, community members and others.

The engaged child is empowered to express ideas and make choices about their learning. As learners, they are:

•competent, capable and creative •secure, connected and respectful •happy, playful and curious •confident, motivated and involved •a questioner, problem-poser and problem-solver. (From - Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guideline Queensland Studies Authority 2010)

It is our aim that each child leaves our centre with a genuine desire to learn and work with others to achieve shared goals. We encourage each child to be a life-long learner, recognising that we never stop learning and finding out new things, even as adults.

A Christian Perspective A further key aim of our service is for children to develop the understanding that they are each created unique and special by God. As an integral part of our learning community, we read simple Bible stories and sing songs that teach about how God created our most marvelous universe. These stories often lead to investigations where we further explore God’s creation during our regular daily discussions and learning experiences.

As we represent the Christian Community we take pleasure in teaching the children God’s love and often pray for those in our families and communities who are sick and facing challenges. We sing songs to say thank you to God at shared meal times. These times help to instill in the children a sense of community and care. Our hope is that each child will leave our Kindy knowing they are loved and special.

Special Books and Records At the start of the year each child will be given a folder, which we refer to as a Special Book. Special Books are used to collect evidence of your child’s learning in the form of stories, photos, artwork and other items you, your child or your child’s teachers consider valuable. There will be specific opportunities for families to contribute to the special books throughout the year and you are encouraged to add items or personal notes that you consider applicable at any time throughout the course of the year. The books are accessible at all times and children will be encouraged to share new additions with their families during the course of the year.

The Special Book is the property of the child and at the end of term four, or upon leaving our service, the Special Book will be prepared by your child’s teacher to take home. Your child’s teacher records observations and information on your child’s progress and learning throughout the course of the year. If you wish to discuss your child’s progress at any time, please make an appointment with your child’s teacher at a mutually convenient

time.

Why Kindergarten?

National Reforms:Driving national reforms in QLD

The Department of Education and Training through the Office for Early Childhood Education and Care is working with all Australian Governments to deliver national reforms and joint initiatives aimed at providing all children with the best start for life and learning. Actions are being taken as part of a national early childhood reform agenda being progressed through the Council of Australian Governments (COAG). These national initiatives focus on early childhood development and link with the COAG Indigenous and health reforms. The national agenda for early childhood development aims to provide all children with the best start for life and learning including the provision of high-quality, accessible and affordable early childhood education and child care services. This agenda is articulated in the National Early Childhood Development Strategy. A key commitment is that by 2013 all children in the year before formal schooling will have access to 15 hours per week of a quality early childhood education program, for at least 40 weeks per year, delivered by university-trained early childhood teachers in public, private and community-based preschools and child care. There are also specific targets for Indigenous children living in remote locations and socio-economically disadvantaged children. The agenda is targeted at reform of long day care , family day care , outside school hours care and kindergarten services. It has a strong emphasis on connecting with schools to ensure all Australian children can make a smooth transition from early childhood education and care to schooling. (From the Office for Early Childhood Education and Care website)

Our Staff Our centre is staffed by fully qualified professionals who hold Senior First Aid Certificates and Blue Cards. Our staff members are Supported to undertake appropriate professional development and teachers are required to participate in a minimum of 20 hours of professional development each year.

Name Qualification Position

Kindergarten 8.30 to 2.30 5 day rotational fortnight

Nerida Fraser Bachelor of Learning Management Early Childhood

Nominated Supervisor /Director/Teacher/Educational Leader

Kathy Curtis Diploma Childcare and Education

Assistant/Certified Supervisor

Pre-Kindergarten 8.30 to 2.00 Mon/Tue or Th/Fri

Elizabeth Douglas (formerly Lawler)

Diploma Children’s Services

Group Leader/Certified Supervisor

Heather Jones (M/T) Reesha Strudwick(T/F)

Bachelor of Education (EC) USC enrolled

Assistant/Certified Supervisor

......

Family Group (W) 8.00 to 4.00

Heather Jones Diploma Childcare and Education

Group Leader/Certified Supervisor

Diana Davis Diploma Childcare and Education

Assistant/Certified Supervisor

......

After Kindergarten Hours Care

2.00 - 4.00 Pre-Kindy 2.30 - 4.00 Kindy/Family

Vacation Care operates from 8 - 4 during the school holidays, excluding 4 weeks over the Christmas/January period.

As rostered:

Heather Jones Kathy Curtis Elizabeth Douglas

Diploma C and E

Diploma C and E

Diploma C S

Group Leader/Assistant

Staff Roles and Responsibilities. Nominated Supervisor: It is the Nominated Supervisor’s responsibility to ensure that all the appropriate regulations are adhered to in all areas. The Nominated Supervisor is in charge of all the day-to-day operations of the kindergarten. The Nominated Supervisor will supervise and mentor other staff at the centre, and oversee the program design and delivery in the role of Educational Leader. All questions about the centre; it’s programs and policies should be taken to the Nominated Supervisor.

Teacher/Group Leader: The Teacher/Group Leader is responsible for planning, preparation and delivery of the educational program. The teacher is accountable directly to parents and to the Educational Leader/Nominated Supervisor. The teacher/Group Leader will ensure that children’s individual needs are catered for in the program and will design and implement all necessary curriculum items. All questions relating to your child should be addressed to the Teacher/Group Leader first and then to the Nominated Supervisor if necessary/applicable.

Assistant: The Educator is to support and follow the lead of the Teacher/Group Leader at all times. They are responsible for ensuring materials are available and the space is clean and presentable. The assistant will work with the children under the guidance of the teacher/Group Leader.

Hours of Operation

Our centre hours are 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday. Hour of attendance will depend on your child’s enrolment.

Late Pick Up’s Our centre CLOSES at 4.00pm. Please be considerate to staff and ensure you are ready to leave the centre with your child by 4.00pm. Pick-ups after this time will be charged at a rate of $45 every 15 minutes or part there-of. If you are unexpectedly delayed and know you will be late, please let staff know as soon as possible so that they might assist you in contacting an alternate pick-up person and you can avoid these fees.

Children who are enrolled in our short day program and not collected by 2.30pm will be placed in our After Hours of Care Program until collected. Extended hours fee of $10 will be charged.

Kindergarten Program

Children must be 4 years of age by the 31st of July in their Kindy year. Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre operates, a university qualified teacher delivered, educational program between 8.30am and 2:30pm Monday to Friday during school terms. Your child will attend in a set 5-day fortnight pattern to provide consistency. These hours are designed to be the optimal day length of an educational program for children aged 4-5 years. Care available on alternate Wednesdays. Please make enquiries to the enrolment officer.

Pre-Kindy Program

Children must be 3 years of age to attend. Children must be 3 by the 31st of July in their pre-kindy year.

Our Pre-Kindy program will be delivered by a qualified Group Leader, offering a quality educational program between 8.30am and 2.00pm every Monday and Tuesday or every Thursday and Friday during school terms. These hours are designed to be the optimal day length of an educational program for children aged 3-4 years. Care may also be available on Wednesdays. Please make enquiries to the Director.

Outside Kindergarten Hours of Care and Vacation Care

Care provided outside the educational program (i.e.,8 - 8.30 and 2.30 – 4) including vacation care will be delivered by a Group Leader and an Assistant. Additional hours of care are available to all children who are currently enrolled in the kindergarten/pre-kindy program.

Vacation care will be available to all children currently enrolled in the program outside term time. Care must be pre-booked and preference will be given to those booking in their usual pattern of care. Short notice care may be available depending on numbers. Vacation care will be available at all mid year breaks and for 1 or 2 weeks after the end of term 4. Our centre will close for 4 weeks over the Christmas and New Year period.

5

Term Dates 2018 `

Term 1 10 weeks Mon- Jan 22 Thur- March 29

Term 2 11 weeks Mon- April 16 Fri- Jun 29

Term 3 10 weeks Mon -July 16 Fri- Sep 21

Term 4 10 weeks Mon -Oct 8 Fri- Dec 14

Fees & Levies Fees and levies from 1st January 2018

These figures represent the standard fees before CCB adjustments.

Program Hours Fees per day

Kindy Short day 8.30 to 2.30 Long day 8.00 to 4.00

$58

$68

Pre-Kindy Short day 8.30 to 2.00 Long day 8.00 to 4.00

$50

$63

Vacation Care & Family Group

8.00 to 4.00$63

Fee Payments

Fees are charged fortnightly and should be paid promptly by the due date. Caloundra Christian College accounts department manages invoicing and fee payments. Please see centre staff for further information on making payments. We encourage families to contact the College to discuss financial arrangements where difficulty is met.

Refunds

A minimum of two weeks term time notice or two weeks in lieu is required whereby children are leaving the Kindergarten. Tuition fees beyond the two weeks may be refunded at the Business Managers discretion. Enrolment Processing Fees are not refundable.

Overdue Fees Policy

It is the policy of this centre that children with fees outstanding of over two weeks will not be able to attend the centre until fees are up to date. Failure to pay, could result in the child’s place being forfeited and offered to another family. If you have trouble paying fees at any stage, please contact our accounts office before fees become overdue as this can save extra administration costs and embarrassment.

N:B Notice must be given in term time not vacation care.

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Enrolments and Withdrawals

Children must have turned three in order to commence Pre-Kindergarten and four(by the 30th June) to commence Kindergarten. Entry is in order as per a waiting list. Preference will, however, be given to children who are of Kindergarten age. Preference is also given to College families. Children enrolled in our Pre-Kindy program will be offered a place for the Kindy year before other people on the waiting list are contacted.

Once enrolled, it is essential to inform the Director or your child’s teacher of any changes in your contact details. Including, but not limited to: your child’s or your residential address or telephone number, work address and telephone numbers, child’s doctor or emergency contacts. Our records must be kept up to date in order to comply with children’s services regulations.

Should you need to withdraw your child’s enrolment, perhaps for transfer or relocation reasons, you are required to give two weeks notice in term time in writing to the director. Pro-rata fees will apply. Any fees paid in advance may be refunded at the discretion of the committee.

When you continue enrolment into term 4 you are committing to enrolment for the entire term, up to and including, the last week of the term. (not vacation care) This is due to the fact that at this late date in the Kindy year we are not able to refill your child’s position with us, yet we still have the same running costs to maintain. Of course if you and your family have extenuating circumstances we encourage you to discuss this with the Director with an aim to come to a mutual agreement. Please note that CCB cannot be applied if your child does not attend in the notice period.

Attendance Patterns/Minimum enrolments. (Kindy Only) Our centre values the consistency that is created by children attending in a set pattern. We therefore require children to attend in the 5-day fortnight pattern. We understand that 3 days in a row can sometimes be exhausting for children when they begin at Kindy. You are welcome to keep your child home or collect them early if you feel they are tired, but we cannot enrol children for less than the 5-day fortnight.

Arrivals and Departures. It is recommended that your child be delivered and collected by a responsible adult of at least 18 years of age, who is known to both the child and the teacher. We understand that there are instances when someone other than yourself must collect your child. Please note that any person who might collect your child should be listed as an emergency contact. If someone who is not listed, needs to collect your child we ask that you notify your child’s teacher of the change as soon as possible, and advise the collection person that they will require photo ID to collect a child from our care.

Please ensure that your child’s arrival and departure are acknowledged by a staff member so that we are aware of who is in our care at all times, this information is vital if the centre

requires evacuation at any time. Please be punctual when collecting your child as they quickly become concerned when you are late.

It is a legal requirement that your child is signed in and out of the centre. The sign-in register is located at the door of your child’s classroom. Children must be brought into the classroom by an adult. Supervision before 8:00am and after 4:00pm is strictly the responsibility of the parent or caregiver. These measures help to ensure your child’s safety at all times.

Staff have many tasks to complete at either side of the program times, preparation, evaluation, staff conferences, record keeping and curriculum planning all have to happen in the limited times before and after kindergarten. Your child will receive the benefits of this in the form of a well-designed and implemented program that meets their individual needs. Parent’s cooperation is sought in abiding closely to the session times.

Absences and Holidays Please notify centre staff as soon as you know your child will not be at Kindy. An absence of more than two weeks without notice will result in your child’s enrolment being cancelled and the forfeiture of any fees paid.

Families taking holidays outside of the normal school breaks (state school calendar) are asked to inform their teacher in advance. Fees will still be payable for these absences in order to ensure your child’s continuing position at the centre. You are permitted 30 CCB funded absences per calendar year. Absences above this will attract full fees. Should your child’s attendance days fall on a public holiday within term times, it is our policy that fees for these days still stand as our running costs remain the same. Public Holidays that fall at the start of the term are not counted in the term.

The centre will be open for vacation care outside term times, however the centre will close for 4 weeks over the Christmas period.

Starting Kindy/Pre-Kindy It is not uncommon for children to have some initial concerns at starting in a new centre. You can reduce these by explaining to your child that Kindy is a place for them to have lots of fun with their friends and learn lots of new and exciting things. Many children are so excited to be starting something new that they run off leaving mum a little apprehensive, while other children are more hesitant and reserved by nature. Here are a few ideas to make the transition easier for both of you:-

• Prepare for Kindy the night before; lay out clothes and shoes and have bags, hats and lunch boxes packed.

• Try to have a calm, unrushed morning, allow time to settle your child at Kindy before leaving.

• When you are ready to go, let one of the staff know so that we can support you and your child

• Tell your child you are going and when you’ll be back (eg.after rest time), then LEAVE - don’t hesitate or linger, even if your child appears to be distressed. We will ensure that your child is comforted and reassured about your return and we WILL let you know if your child remains distressed for any length of time. Most children settle in a matter of moments and go on to enjoy their day.

• If you are concerned please feel free to ring half an hour or so later to check on your child.

How to assist your child to be ready for our Pre-Kindy Program.

Encourage your child to be independent in the following ways: •Toileting, including undressing and dressing themselves, wiping themselves and hand washing. •Feeding themselves •Caring for their own belongings.

Please note: Due to our centre having no nappy changing facilities, all children who attend our program must be fully toilet trained. Please address any concerns you have in relation to your child's’ readiness to commence enrolment with us please speak to your child’s teacher.

Parent Involvement Parents often ask about ways to be involved. Simply staying for an hour or so, one morning is an excellent opportunity for you to see what your child’s Kindergarten experience is like. We find that children love to show their family the centre and really enjoy these special moments. As some children take longer than others to settle into the new environment, we recommend that parents not stay until they are settled.

Parent involvement IS NOT a time for scrubbing beds or disinfecting equipment. We encourage you to spend time with your child, play with them, meet their friends, read a story, do a puzzle or join them at meal and mat times. If you have a special skill that you can show or teach the children this is a great time for it. Ideas include; gardening, pottery, craft, perhaps you have a baby who would be willing to be bathed

and fed, or maybe you play a musical instrument that we could sing along to. We appreciate all of your gifting’s and would love you to share them with us!

We do ask you to assist with tidy up times and pack up times if you are present at these times, as all in together makes it happen more efficiently. Please carefully supervise younger siblings during your stay.

Please let your child’s teacher know if you would like to stay for a while. Regulations require all visitors, other than parents, including Grandparents - to have a working with children suitability card or BLUE CARD. This is in place to protect your children. Forms are available from the Director.

PLEASE NOTE; PARENT INVOLVEMENT IS NOT COMPULSORY. We understand that for many parents, available time to assist is limited. Maybe you can stay for an hour or so.

One special way to contribute is in the role of SOCIAL/FUNDRAISING CO-ORDINATOR - this is the fun part, these people will organise and run fundraisers for the Kindy as well as social events for everyone to get to know each other and have a great time together. Please consider taking on this vital role. Opportunities to volunteer will be presented at a Parent Information Evening early in the new year.

Sun Care Policy

We expect all children and adults in the centre to wear a shady hat (broad brimmed or legionnaire styles are preferred) all year round. Children will not be allowed to play outdoors without an appropriate hat. We request that you apply sunscreen to your child before they leave home, as maximum efficiency is not reached for 15 – 20 minutes after application. Sunscreen for reapplication (or if you forget) will be available at the centre.

Parents will be required to give written approval for application of sunscreen. Sunscreen will be applied (upon approval) at the start of after hours care. If your child has sensitive skin or allergies we request that you provide sunscreen for your child to apply at Kindy.

Front Door and Gate

Please ensure that the front gate and door closes behind you every time you use it, with the road so close this is important for the safety of the children in the centre. Please make sure that only your child exits with you. While we are ever vigilant, occasionally a child will wander into the front yard during pick up time. Children remain safe in this area provided the gate is not opened for them.

PLEASE DO NOT HOLD THE GATE OPEN FOR CHILDREN OTHER THAN YOUR CHILD.

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What to Wear

The Kindergarten is a very active place. Children need to wear comfortable clothes that they can manage by themselves while toileting and which provide appropriate sun protection. (i.e. no singlets or sleeveless tops or dresses.) We would also encourage parents to send children in play clothes – water, paint and sand are part of daily life at kindy and we do not want to see beautiful clothes ruined or children who don’t participate fully for fear of getting their clothes dirty. Girls are encouraged to wear shorts or skorts as dresses can be hazardous for climbing.

KINDY UNIFORM PACKS ARE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT THE KINDERGARTEN. PLEASE ASK STAFF FOR ORDER FORM/PRICING. KINDY T-SHIRTS ARE A GREAT IDEA AND MAY ASSIST IN AVOIDING CONFLICT ABOUT WEARING FAVOURITE CLOTHES THAT MAY BE SOILED BY YOUR ACTIVE KINDY CHILD.

Children need to play in bare feet. It allows them to grip surfaces when climbing and aids the development of a complex reflex system set off by nerve endings in the feet. For safety, growth and sensory experience reasons, we prefer children to wear no shoes while playing. Parents should notify their child’s teacher if there are medical reasons why this cannot happen. Please ensure that your child has a pair of shoes that they can self manage for when we go on excursions to CCC.

What to Bring

Healthy Morning Tea in a small reusable container. Healthy Lunch in a medium sized box. (NO insulated lunch containers please)

Healthy Afternoon Tea in a zip lock or paper bag (if staying after 2.30pm). A Drink Bottle containing WATER only. Pop-tops etc are ideal. Screw-on lids are not suitable. NO poppers, juice bottles, flavoured milk or milk in baby bottles. If you wish to provide your child with plain milk, this will be given to them at lunch time. Sippy cups or tetra packs are suitable.

A shady hat – see sun care policy. At least one spare set of clothes. (including underwear) A bag that will contain all items.

FOR REST TIME

•A fitted cot sheet or flat sheet with elastic across the •corners. •A small top sheet. (or blanket for winter) •A small pillow. (The size of a loaf of bread is perfect) •A favourite soft toy. •A drawstring bag to hold it all. •A photo album of family and special pictures for rest time and to share with friends. •Quiet activities such as drawing, Magnadoodle, or wipe clean activity books.

We find that starting Pre-Kindy is the perfect time to wean children from the use of dummies.

Rest and Sleep Time

The provision of a quiet rest period is required by the government for all centres operating for longer than 4 hours per day. Rest time is a quiet time – sleep is not essential. When body muscles have a chance to relax completely, children’s minds begin to relax too. Rest time is a time for reflection and thought on the day’s activities. Children need to learn to relax in order to recharge their mind and body in these very busy days.

A child who learns to relax will become an adult who is able to cope with the inevitable stresses and strains of life. We use small stretchers, which sit just off the ground. We find that a fitted cot sheet fits well. Should your child have specific rest requirements or instructions please discuss this with relevant staff. Please refer to our Rest and Sleep Policy for further information.

Birthdays

We love to help your child celebrate their birthday. On this special day you may like to send in an iced cake or 20 + (check with your child’s teacher) small cakes to share. Please limit the amount of food colouring and lollies etc on these cakes. If your child is on a restricted diet and unable to eat these shared items; please discuss alternative arrangements with your child’s teacher, to avoid disappointment. Simple alternatives include, supplying your child’s teacher with a few cupcakes to freeze in the class freezer and be readily available on days that birthday cakes are brought in.

Please NO TOYS or FAVOURITE ITEMS FROM HOME!!

These precious things are often the source of problems such as loss or an understandable unwillingness to share.

Nutrition Policy

We encourage all students to eat a healthy and nutritionally, well balanced morning tea and lunch. We believe that good nutrition is essential to your child’s good health, growth and development. PLEASE DO NOT include foods that are high in sugar, salt or fat eg. potato chips, sweet biscuits, cakes, chocolate, roll ups.

These foods can be eaten at home when teeth can be cleaned afterwards. When some children have these foods at Kindy it can undermine the hard work of parents trying to give their children healthy choices. We ask you to respect these requirements during Kindy time.

Children are encouraged to eat healthy food first, before filling up on other items. Please inform the staff of any specific dietary requirements or eating habits that may impact upon your child’s day within the centre.

Another important consideration for packing your child’s lunch is their own ability to manage packaging themselves. As we attempt to minimise our impact on the environment we would ask you to limit the amount of packaging in your child’s lunch.

Please include a water bottle each day as this allows children to sip water as required rather than only at meal times.

Due to Food Handling regulations we are unable to heat food.

Please Note: All food will be refrigerated, and for this reason food handling regulations prevent the use of insulated lunch containers. Food should be stored in reusable plastic containers , always clearly marked with your child’s name. If your child’s meals are not named, they will always be the last to receive their meal due to the necessary process of elimination

Grievance Procedure

It is important to us that both you and your child have an enjoyable experience of Kindy/Pre-Kindy. While we endeavour to ensure that we meet the needs of all of our families, we understand that there are times when you may feel that this is not the case. We are keen to resolve issues quickly and appropriately and would like the opportunity to explain and perhaps even change processes in order to support our families and their children. We are unable to do this when parents/carers gossip or complain in the car park or at gatherings outside Kindy. Should you have a problem, concern, issue or query, PLEASE direct it to an appropriate person who may be able to help or explain.

All queries and concerns should be first addressed directly with the person or persons concerned. It is imperative for open and honest communication to occur between people in order to achieve resolution.

Queries or concerns regarding the educational program and/or your child’s progress should be directed first to your child’s Teacher, if unresolved then to the Director, and if still

unresolved, to Mark Hodges, Principal at Caloundra Christian College. Please note, our Early Childhood Officer (ECO) from the Office of Early Childhood Education and Care, is Lisa Jensen. (Contact details as per front page)

Queries regarding fees should be directed to the accounts department at Caloundra Christian College. Other matters relating to the management of the centre should be addressed to, in the first instance, the Director.

Behaviour Guidance

Our philosophy is that many behaviour issues can be prevented with careful planning and preparation. We negotiate rules for our classrooms to prevent injury and promote co-operation, compassion and participation. We use positive guidance and reinforcements to encourage appropriate behaviour. Children are taught to “use their words” and aided in the development of negotiation skills. We encourage children to be assertive and employ the phrase “Stop it, I don’t like it” which has a two fold effect of making a clear objection to a situation and alerting staff to the situation. At no time will staff use physical, verbal or emotional punishment. Instead we remind the child of the appropriate behaviour (warning) then we offer the child a choice of adopting the appropriate behaviour or a consequence (usually time out to think about how they can behave in an appropriate manner). Parents will be informed of any serious behaviour issues and an action plan will be developed.

Parent’s Responsibilities

It is the parent’s responsibility to read all the information pertaining to the centre in order to be familiar with policies and requirements.

It is the parent’s responsibility to comply with the relevant health and hygiene policies and to provide the centre with relevant information as requested.

Please read notices and return response slips promptly.

It is the parent’s responsibility to notify the Director/Teacher of any changes in information recorded about your child. E.g. address, emergency contact numbers, custody arrangements.

Communication

Parents are encouraged to speak to the Director/Teacher about their child’s progress or any concerns they may have at any time during the year. Please understand if the Director/Teacher is unable to talk to you immediately, they will be more than happy to make a time to speak to you without the distractions of other children and parents.

Parent/Teacher interviews will be available in term 4.

Fire/Emergency Evacuation & Lock Down Drills.

Fire and lock down drills will be held so that children become familiar with the procedures. In the event of a fire here at Kindy:-

Director to call 222 to let admin know and they will call 000. Otherwise emergency evacuation will be notified via the Fire Alarm. Assistant to collect the roll and emergency back pack. Staff and children will exit by the closest and safest marked exit and cross the road at the pedestrian crossing to the oval then proceed to the Flag Pole oval if deemed safe. Use alternate destination if situation requires. Once at the flag pole the roll will be called. It is most important for the safety of the children that all adults remain calm. If relevant, all parents will be contacted to collect children as soon as possible, using supplied contact details.

Smoke and Alcohol Free Zone

Like all areas for children our centre and all areas around it are 100% smoke and alcohol free at all times.

Lost Property

Unnamed lost property will be displayed in the centre for one term, after this it will be donated to our spare clothes supply or to charity. Named property will be placed in your child’s bag or newsletter pocket.

THINGS FROM HOME TO SHARE – Show and Tell - By Roster sent home by class teacher.

While we encourage children to bring things of interest from the garden, (grasshoppers, lady beetles and the like) we would ask you to keep your child’s precious toys at home. These items can be lost or broken at Kindy, and are often the source of sharing woes, causing unnecessary tears. As a general rule these are suitable items for show and tell. •Something from nature •Something you made •An award, medal or special achievement •A photo or book to share

Don’t throw it in the bin, it could be a rocket jetpack!!

You can help the environment and recycle clean household rubbish by saving items which can be used for craft or dramatic play. Here is a list of some useful items:

cotton reels, bottle tops, wool, soft wood off cuts, paper bags, paper plates, boxes, old/used cards, string, seed pods, hats, dressing up clothes, corks, old jewellery, old x-rays, beads, tops of aerosol containers, plastic containers + lids, wrapping paper, milk lid rings.

This list is certainly not comprehensive; if you’re not sure just ask the teacher or assistant. We are always eager to have a supply of good paper for painting, drawing and collage. Paper can have writing on one side; automatic feed computer paper is great, as are architecture drawings and site plans. If you know anyone who may be able to donate these things to us please let your teacher know.

Prac Teachers/Work Experience Students and Volunteers

This centre recognises the importance of student placements in developing the educators of the future. Children in the centre also benefit from the sharing of ideas and building relationships with new and different people. Please be assured that the children’s needs are our upmost consideration when determining possible placements of any sort.

All volunteers and tertiary/TAFE students will be required to hold a current Blue Card and will work under the supervision and guidance of qualified staff. Students and Volunteers must sign in on the visitors book located in the foyer.

Excursions

We believe excursions are a wonderful way to enhance children’s understanding of a learning experience and offer children a variety of wider learning opportunities around an interest area. Our centre has been carefully designed and is constantly monitored for the safety of your children. As soon as we leave the centre we face risks that cannot be controlled or prevented. This, associated with the high adult-child ratios required for ultimate safety (1 Adult for every two children, including younger siblings) is why many Kindergartens are moving towards centre-based entertainment. If your child’s teacher feels that an experience outside of the centre would be beneficial to the children’s learning, an excursion will be organised in accordance with appropriate regulations. Parents will be notified and asked to sign permission forms and indicate availability to accompany their child. If you do not wish your child to attend an arranged excursion please notify the teacher so that alternative arrangements can be made. Parents are encouraged to share the day’s experience with their child by attending, though parents and siblings may be charged an additional cost. Grandparents or relatives may attend, although they should hold a current Blue Card.

Health Policy

If your child has had a fever, been vomiting, had diarrhoea, head lice or eggs, or has been off colour within 12 – 18 hours prior to their Kindy day, please keep him/her home. While we understand that this can be difficult and inconvenient, it is important to consider other families and limit the spread of possible infections. If the director or teacher considers your child to be unwell they will request parents or other emergency contact persons take the child home.

In such a close environment illness spreads rapidly. We insist that your child remains away from the centre until the infectious period is completely passed. It is simply not fair on other parents (who, find it just as inconvenient as you do to keep their child home), or children if you do not take infections seriously. If you have any doubt as to your child’s ability to attend Kindergarten please seek the advice of a doctor. Children sometimes feel that they will miss out on something vital or interesting if they do not attend, however, children are not to make this important decision. It is the responsibility of the parent to consider other children at the centre, as well as siblings who may not yet be fully immunised, staff, or mothers who may be pregnant.

The Director and Teacher must be notified if any other family member has a contagious illness, (e.g. chicken pox, measles, gastro enteritis etc..) to enable them to keep a close eye on all children for symptoms. If your child has suffered from a contagious illness, a clearance note must be completed by your doctor before your child can be re-admitted to the centre.

Please check with the Director/Teacher or consult your Qld Health baby book or the website for minimum exclusions for infectious diseases. If there is any uncertainty please contact your GP or local health professional for confirmation.

Medication, Illness or Injury

All medication must be handed to the Director/Teacher and will be administered appropriately, accurately and safely in accordance with the following:

Prescribed medication will be administered in accordance with the doctors instructions as set out in a dated letter, or as per instructions on the original pharmacists label attached to the medication and containing the child’s full name and details. Non-prescribed medication can only be administered with a dated letter from the child’s doctor outlining the appropriate use and dose. Paracetamol may be administered in the event of your child developing a sudden high temperature only when parents have given their express permission in writing to the Director. If the Director deems it necessary to deliver a single initial dose of paracetamol, the parents/emergency contact persons will be contacted to take the child to a medical facility for further diagnosis. Paracetamol can only be administered when there is a high temperature present. In the event that neither parents nor emergency contacts can be raised, the Director (a fully qualified first aider) will take whatever steps are deemed necessary to prevent the child’s condition from becoming worse.

The Director has the discretion to assess whether medication can be administered appropriately, accurately and safely and to refuse admittance of a child for the period that medication is required. This will be done only to ensure the health and

safety of your child when the administration requirements cannot be met. Parents are required to complete a medication log for each day the medication is required. This log will then be signed by the staff member who administers the medication; and by a witness (another staff member). It is imperative that the Director has the correct and current contact phone numbers available at all times. Your child may become suddenly and seriously ill at any time during the Kindy day and you will want to be informed as soon as possible.

All of our staff hold current first aid qualifications and in the event of an injury or incident; will follow the current approved course of action. The staff member, in association with the Director, will take the necessary steps to ensure your child’s safety and wellbeing at all times. If necessary, an ambulance will be called prior to notification of parents. Parents or an emergency contact will be contacted as soon as practicable and notified of any action taken by the staff, or relevant authorities.

Immunisation Policy

We strongly encourage the immunisation of children. It not only protects the child, but other vulnerable parties, such as small babies and pregnant mothers.

Parents/guardians are required to provide an Australian Childhood Immunisation Register Immunisation History Statement or officially completed Personal Health Record upon enrolment. Please update at time of 4 year immunisation.

For those parents who choose not to immunise, we will provide you with An Agreement to Withdraw form for both parents to sign and return. In the event of an outbreak of a vaccine preventable disease, you will be required to remove your child from the centre until the risk of infection has passed. This action also applies to children with incomplete immunisation.

Parents/Guardians are required to inform the Director/Teacher if their child or a member of their immediate family contracts a vaccine preventable disease.

Hygiene Policy

Good hygiene practices are followed at the centre and we reinforce these with the children on a daily basis. Correct hand washing is a vital part of infection control. Children are encouraged to wash their hands prior to eating or cooking and after toileting, nose blowing and outside play

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We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for choosing our centre, we feel both honoured and privileged to be entrusted with your children and we look forward to developing close and warm relationships with you and your children.

Caloundra Christian College Early Learning Centre A place of love, laughter and learning.

Revised January 201814