Tricia's Childcare

Clothing:
Please bring a change of clothes (underwear and socks too), although I do try to keep the children clean, accidents do happen ( and playing is hard and dirty work! )

During the winter months, please bring snow pants, hats, mittens, and boots for your child to wear, we do play outdoors during the winter time providing it is not an extreme cold and there is no wind-chill or any other winter storm warning in effect. I check the weather forecast in the morning and use common sense when deciding on how long to stay outside.

During the summer months, please bring a hat, sunscreen, little swimmers diapers (if needed) and a bathing suit, we play a variety of water games outside during the summer. I check the weather every morning for the UV index, humidity, and temperature. I use common sense when deciding on how long to stay outside and at what times during the day.

Toys from home:
The children are free to bring toys here if they wish. However, our rule is "you bring it, you share it". If the toy is delicate or of sentimental value, please do not bring it. I cannot be held responsible for toys that get broken or lost when brought here.

Any toys that pose a choking hazard are not to be brought into my home. I care for younger children who still put toys in their mouths.

Babies/Toddlers:
I provide a playpen and bedding for naps, a highchair, Sippy cups, and bibs  for my littlest friends. I ask that you provide formula/milk, diapers, and wipes. You may leave a box of diapers/wipes with me (I will label them), and let you know when they are running low.

I also provide a daily report for children less than 2 years of age if needed

Safety/Health and Wellness:
Your child's safety is my first priority. All lower cabinets that pose a safety hazard have safety locks (kitchen area). All electrical outlets are covered with child proof safety covers. My front entrance is gated at both the top and bottom stairs.  I also have two smoke detectors that are checked monthly and a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. I'm trained in Emergency First Aid as well as CPR for Adults, children, and Infants.

Sick Children:
As I fully understand that children do get sick, please keep your child home if he/she has any of the following symptoms:

-a tympanic temperature over 100F
-vomiting/diarrhea
-pink eye or head lice
-any unexplained rash
I will call to have your child picked up if any of these symptoms are present. If myself or one of my children have the above symptoms I will call and let you know as soon as possible and it is up to your discretion if you want to send your child or not.

Illness Prevention:
I try my best to prevent illnesses in my home by wiping down commonly touched surfaces nightly, sanitizing booster seats/highchairs at the end of the day, and setting aside any toys that have been put in mouths to be washed at the end of the day.

I wash any bedding that has been used (crib sheets, blankets, etc.) at the end of the week

We wash our hands before and after meals/snacks, and after playing outside.

 Emergencies/Backup:
If for whatever reason, I have an emergency, I have an adult who will come here for a short period of time until you arrive.

Should your child require emergency medical attention, I need written permission to follow any steps necessary for his/her wellbeing. I will notify you at the earliest possible time.
 Appointments:
I do the best I can to schedule my family's appointments around my childcare schedule, however, I will give you as much notice in advance if I am unable to schedule an appointment outside of my childcare schedule.

Pets:
We do have a family cat. He has had all his immunizations and is friendly and good with children.

Craft Supplies:
I welcome any egg cartons, toilet paper/paper towel rolls, cardboard boxes, etc. you may just throw out. I have a variety of crafts/activities I do with the kids using different recycled items (and what's more fun than a cardboard box!)
 Open Door:
My door is always open, you are welcome anytime to walk in while your child is here. Please ring the doorbell or come in, I don't always hear a knock when I'm busy with my little friends!
 Communication:
If you ever have a concern or question, call me! Your concerns and feedback are important to me.