Please note that the policies outlined below are just an overview. Each family will receive a comprehensive parent handbook from me, as well as one from the agency, prior to enrolment. I highly encourage all families to take their time reviewing both handbooks thoroughly. If you have any questions or need clarification on anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Taking the time to understand these policies ensures that we establish a strong foundation for the best possible childcare experience and a positive working relationship moving forward.
Childcare Fees
Monthly Fees: The childcare fees listed are per child, per month, and are non-negotiable.
Payment: Fees are collected at the end of each month by my agency.
Deposit: A deposit equal to one month’s fees is required to reserve your child’s spot. This deposit will be applied to your final month’s fees, provided proper notice is given and there are no outstanding fees. If proper notice is not given, or if you choose to withdraw your child after the spot has been reserved, the deposit becomes non-refundable.
Agency Fees: These are in addition to my fees.
Extended Hours: My regular fees are based on a maximum of 10 hours per day. If care is needed for more than 10 hours, an additional fee will apply, depending on my family’s schedule. Please inquire for more details.
Drop-in Care: Drop-in fees are based on a maximum of 9 hours per day. If you need to cancel, 24 hours' notice is required; otherwise, full fees will apply.
Inclusions: Meals, snacks, craft supplies, toys, and other materials used during the day are included in my rates. However, any field trip admission fees (e.g., zoo passes) will be extra, and you will receive plenty of notice in these cases.
Fee Increases: There will be a 3% fee increase once per year, based on your child’s enrollment date. This increase is necessary due to rising costs (e.g., food, insurance, heating). A minimum of 4 weeks' notice will be provided before any fee increases are implemented.
Receipts
Year-End Receipts: Receipts for tax purposes will be issued at the end of the year by my agency.
Child Absences
Non-Refundable Fees: Your fee guarantees your child’s spot, so no deductions, discounts, or refunds will be given if your child does not attend for any reason (e.g., statutory holidays, sick days, or vacations).
Vacation Policy
Paid & Unpaid Vacation: I take 3 weeks of paid vacation and 1 additional week of unpaid vacation each calendar year. One of the paid weeks will be during the Christmas break (Dec 23 - Jan 1). The other weeks will be scheduled throughout the year, with a minimum of 1 month's written notice provided. I generally finalize my vacation dates early in the year.
Working Days: My monthly fees are based on 20 working days, but as there are usually 21-23 working days each month, I work 1-3 days for free each month, which I make up with paid vacation.
Illness Policy
Sick Children: For the health and safety of all, please keep your child home if they are sick. I have the right to refuse sick children, and I will determine when a child is too ill to remain in my care.
Medication: I will only administer medication (both prescription and non-prescription) if the parent completes a medication form.
Arrivals & Departures
Arrival Time: Please ensure your child arrives dressed, fed (if arriving after a meal), and ready for the day. We may leave immediately after your arrival for planned activities.
Authorized Pickups: Your child will only be released to individuals listed on your registration form. If someone else is picking up your child, advance notice is required.
Parent Responsibilities
Appropriate Clothing: Dress your child appropriately for both indoor and outdoor play, as we spend a lot of time outside (weather permitting).
Spare Clothes: Please ensure I always have a spare outfit or two for your child, as clothes may get wet or dirty.
Communication: If you will be late or if your child will be absent, please notify me as soon as possible.
Termination Policy
Trial Period: The first month is considered the "trial period." If either party feels we are not a good fit, 24 hours' notice is required to terminate the contract. You will only be charged for the spot up to that point, plus the 24-hour notice.
Post-Trial Termination: After the trial period, I require a minimum of 1 month's written notice to terminate childcare. If I choose to terminate care after the trial period, I will provide 1 month's written notice. This notice is not guaranteed if policies in the parent handbook are not followed by the parents.
Handbook Revisions
Annual Review: I will conduct an annual review of the Parent Handbook and contracts. Any changes will be shared with parents in an updated copy.
Policy Changes: I reserve the right to make changes to the Parent Handbook as deemed necessary.
