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Your children,
Our focus.
Active learning, loving care.
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Table of Contents
Mission statement
Our philosophy
Welcome
What makes us special
Our Staff
Children’s well-being
EYLF
Introduction
Children’s classes
Organic menu
Meals
Birthdays
General information
Helpful hints
How can you contribute
3
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16-23
24
25
Please note: The Penrith Early Learning Centre has been Referenced
throughout this guide as the ‘Service’.
encourage
MISSION STATEMENT I 3
At Penrith Early Learning
Centre we provide a
safe and welcoming
environment with a joyful
and respectful attitude.
We focus on the
wholesome development
of the individual child
and encourage a love
of active learning in
loving care.
excellence
PHILOSPHY I 5
Our philosophy is to encourage
each child to reach their full
potential by providing excellence in
Early Childhood Education.
1. Our programs are developed to nurture each child in
acquiring a love for learning, through interaction with the
surrounding environment. Our activities allow children to
explore, experiment, imitate and to ask questions to
further develop their thinking and problem solving skills.
2. We believe parents are the primary influence over their
children. It is our responsibility to partner with families
working towards individual goals for their children.
To embrace each family’s expectations and
circumstances by respecting their views regardless of
gender, race and cultural background, religious beliefs
and intellectual or physical ability.
3. To actively teach children in a safe, loving and caring
environment, where children are confident BEING
present and engaged in the moments.
To provide a happy and joyful atmosphere where children
can express themselves freely and show their
individuality, while experiencing a strong sense of
BELONGING.
Educators encourage sustainable practices within our
education and care service and we will encourage
children and families to become advocates for a
sustainable future.
4. To guide children positively to teach them strong social
skills, empowering them in BECOMING confident little
people with their peers and within their wider
communities, as well as confident to try new things.
5. To use/teach creative arts where children are
encouraged to express themselves through music,
dance, drama and visual arts.
6. To participate in the National Quality Standards
Rating Program, maintaining a high quality, learning
environment and to ensure our parents and carers
can access all components of the Government
incentives. Our curriculum is part of the National
Framework known as The Early Years Learning
Framework, referred to as “EYLF”.
7. We actively promote Australia’s multicultural society
through sharing, with the children, aspects of the diverse
cultures and backgrounds of various ethnic groups –
always encouraging family input.
6 I WELCOME
Welcome to
Penrith Early Learning Centre!
At Penrith Early Learning Centre, we provide a secure and
happy environment where children can develop their
intellectual, social, emotional and physical skills to become
competent and confident individuals.
This parent handbook outlines important information you will
need to be aware of while you are a part of our Service
family. It is important that you read over this booklet and
ask questions about matters you do not understand.
We want you, as a parent/guardian, to feel safe in the
knowledge that your child is receiving the best possible
care. We achieve this through:
You will be provided with a form, which you must sign and
return to the Service to indicate that you have read the
information in this booklet.
Providing a welcoming and caring environment
Being respectful
Instilling family values from home
Creating beneficial Child/Educator relationships
Providing open communication
Training staff to their maximum potential
Listening and acting upon parent feedback
We work with families to provide a happy and joyful
atmosphere where children can express themselves freely
and show their individuality, while experiencing a strong
sense of BELONGING.
We look forward to a wonderful and rewarding partnership,
with all families, as we guide your child’s development and
learning during these important years and prepare them for
school.
WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL I 7
What makes us special:
At Penrith Early Learning Centre, we offer a range of
wonderful learning experiences as well as looking after
health and wellbeing.
We provide healthy nutrient dense foods made from
Organic ingredients, we have huge fun ourdoor areas for
active play, our very own little vegetable garden as well as
bunny sanctuary. We offer Yoga as part of our program and
actively encourage the children to participate in our fun
language programs.
INTERACTIVE PARENT PORTAL
We use a program called Kinderloop, this provides a secure
way for child care educators to easily document & share
related information about a child with parents and family
members, through real-time updates. Each Kinderloop is a
private closed loop, updates are only shared with invited
family members.
BENEFITS FOR PARENTS
We are here to partner with you, together we offer more than
35 years experience in Early Childhood Education and Care
and between us we speak five different languages.
Parents receive notification updates via the free app or
email, all in real time. See, learn and experience more of
your child's day!
Our staff are qualified and dedicated to your children to
provide excellent care and education.
Kinderloop helps increase family engagement in each child's
learning, enhancing support and improving educational
outcomes.
Our teachings skills are friendly and fun, we build solid
relationships with children and their families and we
understand how important good communication is.
The children love to engage with us and enjoy the wide
variety of welcoming environments and activities we set up
during the course of the each day.
Additional family members worldwide can be securely invited
to view your child’s Kinderloop, its free and so is the app!
For more information, check out www.Kinderloop.com
We also offer casual and occasional care.
8 I STAFF
Staff at Penrith Early Learning Centre
We recognize that our staff are paramount in the provision
of high quality care and education for all children. Each of
our staff members have knowledge, training, qualifications
and experience in Early Childhood Education and Care.
We actively teach children in a safe, loving and caring
environment where children are confident BEING present
and engaged in the moments.
To ensure our Educators are effective leaders and are
up to date with the current standards and regulations,
we regularly undertake training to update our skills and
qualifications. For example:
National Quality Standards rating programs
Senior First Aid Certificates
Anaphylaxis and Asthma Certificates
EYLF curricular update
Workplace, Health & Safety
The staff work as a team and are committed to making your
child’s day happy, safe and educationally stimulating.
We strive to positively teach children strong social skills,
empowering them in BECOMING confident children with
their peers and within the wider communities, as well as
confident to try new things.
All our staff members are screened through a Working with
Children Check carried out by the NSW Commission for
Young Children and Young People.
We look after our staff well, which in turn provides you with
the best care and education for your children.
EDUCATION I 9
Children’s well-being:
We provide a fun and friendly welcoming environment where
children feel secure and free to explore the wonderful world
around them.
Our programs include Yoga and Meditation and we have a
variety of outdoor stimulation to ensure children are offered
all the benefits of exercise as part of Health our Wellness
program.
Children are born into a world of technology. This world
provides an overload of cognitive stimulation, and has
created an environment where children are less and less
inclined to engage in physical activity. Keeping the body
active is fundamental to healthy living. Children need time to
play.
Our parents and carers take comfort in knowing that their
children are happy, learning and growing in safe, joyful and
nurturing environment.
Our service provides Individualised programming and
interest based learning, with developmental evaluation.
We offer educational in house excursions, specialised
language lessons and the school readiness program.
The Early Years Learning Framework is implemented across
all that we do and our Centre is Sun Smart providing every
child with sunscreen.
Dalai Lama said
“ If every eight year old in the world is taught
meditation, we will eliminate violence from the world
within one generation.”
We say “Let’s teach our children now”
10 I EYLF
Early Years Learning Framework
(EYLF)
Learning Outcomes:
Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity
Children
Children
Children
Children
feel safe, secure and supported.
develop their emerging autonomy, inter-dependence, resilience and sense of agency.
develop knowledgeable and confident self-identities.
learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy and respect.
Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world
Children develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities and an understanding of the reciprocal rights and
responsibilities necessary for active community participation.
Children respond to diversity with respect.
Children become aware of fairness.
Children become socially responsible and show respect for the environment.
Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
Children become strong in their social and emotional wellbeing.
Children take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical wellbeing.
Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners
Children develop dispositions for learning such as curiosity, cooperation, confidence, creativity, commitment, enthusiasm,
persistence, imagination and reflexivity.
Children develop a range of skills and processes such as problem solving, enquiry, experimentation, hypothesizing,
researching and investigating.
Children transfer and adapt what they have learned from one context to another.
Children resource their own learning through connecting with people, place, technologies and natural and
processed materials.
Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators
Children interact verbally and non-verbally with others for a range of purposes.
Children engage with a range of texts and gain meaning from these texts.
Children express ideas and make meaning using a range of media.
Children begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work.
Children use information and communication technologies to access information, investigate ideas and represent
their thinking.
INTRODUCTION I 11
Introduction
CATERPILLARS:
CHILDREN’S ROOMS
0 to 2 years
Penrith Early Learning Centre has two rooms that
promote a spacious, warm and inviting environment for all of
our children.
In a bright and fun filled homely environment our Educators
love and care for our children. Our teaching techniques are
inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy.
BUTTERFLIES
BUTTERFLIES:
Caterpillars
0 – 2yrs
Junior 2 1/2 to 3 years
Watch in joy as your child’s language, social, physical and
cognitive skills flourish – Teaching children during this
exciting age of discovery is so rewarding especially seeing
children develop socially in preparation for pre-school.
Butterflies
2 ½ - 5yrs
The daily routines and programs are displayed in each room.
BUTTERFLIES SENIORS
Pre-schoolers:
Our discovery-based school readiness program offers
opportunities for children to become confident learners and
communicators, making choices about their learning whilst
developing strong social skills. We welcome and encourage
family input.
Our staff to children ratios are:
1:4 in the Caterpillars
1:8 in the Butterflies
12 I CHILDREN CLASSES
What to bring?
Caterpillars 0 – 2 years
All items must be clearly named.
Three changes of clothing to suit the weather. Please read the clothing guide for more details.
Comfortable, enclosed slip proof shoes.
6 nappies for each day they are in care.
Any barrier or nappy rash cream needs to have a medication form filled out.
A comfort item for rest time (if required).
Sheet sets. (If your child is in a cot, we provide the sheets).
Your child’s bottles with the right amount of sterilized water.
The formula stored in a separate container.
If required, dummies – no dummy chains.
Butterflies 2 ½ - 5 years
All items must be clearly named.
Three changes of clothing to suit the weather. Please read the clothing guide for more details.
Comfortable, enclosed slip proof shoes.
6 nappies for each day they are in care.
Any barrier or nappy rash cream needs to have a medication form filled out.
A comfort item for rest time (if required).
Sheet sets
If required, dummies – no dummy chains.
ORGANIC MENU* I 13
Organic Menu*
We believe it should be fresh,
nutritious, taste, smell and look
fantastic!
Penrith Early Learning Centre serves ORGANIC nutritious,
well-balanced wholesome meals that are all prepared in our
kitchen by a qualified Cook. We follow the “Food for health
dietary guidelines for children and adolescents in Australia”.
We encourage and support breast-feeding.
Children need sufficient nutritious foods to grow and
develop normally. We have a separate information brochure
for breast-fed babies. Please ask one of our helpful staff for
a copy.
Our menus are carefully planned to make sure children enjoy
a wide range of nutritious foods. We serve:
Milks, yoghurts, cheeses and/or alternatives. We use
whole fresh milk. Reduced-fat milks are not suitable
for children under two years because of their high
energy needs.
Water as a preferred drink. We have our very own
purification system built in to ensure the children are drinking
healthy water
Our cook ensures that foods are fresh and free of nasty
ingredients that hinder our health and wellbeing. Our beef is
grass fed. We use antibiotic and preservative free
chickens, too. We also:
Choose foods low in salt. We use an organic herbal salt
called Herbamare from Switzerland.
Consume low amounts of sugars and limit foods
containing added sugars.
We respect all religious, cultural and family values and
customs, including those related to food and eating.
Plenty of vegetables, legumes and fruits
Grass fed meat, fish, poultry and/or alternatives.
A variety of cereals, such as rice, pasta, noodles and
breads
When a child has particular needs related to eating, for
whatever reason, we discuss with the family the best
way to offer food for the child. This may involve the family
providing food from home, or agreeing on specific foods
that can be included or avoided.
Penrith Early Learning Centre is nut free and allergy friendly.
Penrith Early Learning Centre is nut free and allergy freindly.
14 I MEALS
DAILY MEAL TIMES
Our cook is fantastic. She is dedicated to the well being
of each and every child attending the Centre. Everything
is cooked fresh on the day, using organic ingredients with
the emphasis being on “home-made from scratch is best”.
Our menus provide a delicious and varied selection of
foods. Please see our menu displayed in the foyer and
in the children’s rooms. The menus are changed and or
rotated every six weeks.
Breakfast - 7:00am - 7:45am
The children are offered a nutritious variety of cereals,
served with whole fresh milk and or wholemeal toast with
vegemite or raisin toast. Water and milk are offered to drink.
Morning Tea: 9.00am – 9.30am
Morning Tea consists of fresh fruit, Water or milk is served
with morning tea.
Lunch
Lunch is served at different times according to the age
groups. Water is served at lunch time. The caterpillars are
served at 11.15am to 11.30am and the Butterflies are
served at 12.00pm to 12.30pm
Afternoon Tea: 2.30pm – 3.00pm
Flexible, depending on wake up time. Served with milk or
water to drink.
Late Snacks: 5.00pm – 5.30pm
Late snacks are served with milk or water to drink
DRINKS AND FORMULA
Babies under 6 months, who are not exclusively breast-fed,
are offered cooled boiled water. From 6 to 12 months,
cooled boiled water can supplement breast milk or formula.
For children 1 to 5 years, water and cow’s milk are the main
drinks offered.
We have a special water device fitted so that all the water is
conditioned into a cohesive, living water structure that has
life-affirming effects on soil, biology, plants, animals and
humans. The devices use magnetism to energise and
activate the water into a natural structure that is aligned to
the health of living cells (coherence). The devices have been
designed to embed and sustain a negative (-) millivolts
charge in the water passing through the device.
Research and other scientific studies since about the
1930's have confirmed the beneficial effects of negatively
charged water on all living systems.
Water and biological coherence are fundamental to our
energy systems and to optimise health, vitality and longevity.
Energised water is structured water that has been activated
to permanently hold a negative charge and water structuring
occurs in nature when water is allowed to move in a natural
flow of vortexes.
Children have access to this wonderful drinking water at all
times during the day. Plain milk is also offered at times
throughout the day. Individual children’s dietary
requirements are always adhered to.
MAKING MEALTIMES POSITIVE
Meal and snack times provide an opportunity for children
to develop good eating behaviours, enjoy eating and learn
about nutrition and different varieties of foods. They are also
a good time for social interaction.
Our Educators and carers use these times to talk with the
children, to encourage them to talk with each other, and to
share information about nutrition and healthy eating.
We set the scene for a positive mealtime. Children always
sit down to eat at meal and snack times. We encourage
children to help pack away play materials and set the table
and also help by scrapping their plates and putting their
cups into the right containers.
A little mess is to be expected at meal and snack times.
This is normal, however, playing with food, for example
throwing or spitting it, is not allowed. Young children are
allowed to eat with their fingers, especially if they are still
learning to use utensils.
Children are encouraged to try foods in a positive manner,
but are never forced or pressured to eat.
HAND WASHING
Strict hand washing rules are adhered to. You will notice
hand sanitizers at the door of each room, outside, as well as
in the bathrooms. Please always use this when entering the
rooms to drop off or pick up your children.
Everybody attending the Service washes their hands before
all meals. The children are carefully monitored by our caring
Educators.
*Organic food when available
BIRTHDAYS I 15
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Birthdays
General Information
We believe each child’s birthday is a very special time. We
celebrate this day by giving your child a little birthday present
to open.
Penrith Early Learning Centre is a private, family owned 44
place Long Day Care Service. We are licensed and
registered with the Government’s Department of Education
and Communities (DEC) and we work within the
requirements of the new National Quality Framework (NQF)
and National Quality Standards (NQS).
Our Cook makes some of her delicious healthy muffins,
decorated with fresh cream for that special touch. Fellow
children and staff sing Happy Birthday! Your child has the
opportunity to blow the candles out, too!
Please remember to tell us about any special cultural or
traditional ways you celebrate birthdays. We will do our
best to accommodate these.
We love parents and carers to join us, but we understand
that life is very busy and this is sometimes not possible. We
prepare an A3 poster for you with photos and stories from
the day.
Penrith Early Learning Centre is also guided by the
Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority
(ACECQA). ACECQA oversee how the National quality
Standard is applied across the country and ensure that
services are meeting the new requirements.
OPEN DOOR POLICY
We have an “open door” policy at Penrith Early Learning
Centre. Parents may visit their children in our facilities any
time they wish. We do ask parents who plan to visit their
children frequently to follow the children’s routine. We also
ask that you make an appointment if you wish to meet with
the Centre Management or a staff member.
Parents, family members and others, at the discretion of the
staff, are welcome to stay and join in the program with the
children.
16 I GENERAL INFORMATION
The staff must ensure that the needs of individual children
and the service are of paramount concerns at all times.
During an arranged visit, parents are to maintain the usual
behaviour management practices of the centre. Should this
not occur the staff will insist the standards of the centre are
maintained.
Details of any court orders affecting the custody of the child
of which the staff is aware, must be taken into account.
CENTRE PRIORITY OF ACCESS
The guidelines only apply to approved child care. They are
used when there is a waiting list for a child care service or
when a number of parents are applying for a limited number
of vacant places.
Every approved child care service has to abide by the
guidelines and tell you about them when you enrol your child
into care.
are notified when your child first entered care that your
service follows this policy
are given at least 14 days notice of the need for your child
to vacate.
Service address
120 Woodriff Street, Penrith NSW 2750
Telephone number: 02 4721 4651
Mobile number: 0468 997 478
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.penrithchildcare.com.au
Service Numbers
Service ABN number:
30130503838
Service Approval number: SE-00008692
NSW Early Childhood Education and Care
Nominated Supervisory contact information:
Priorities
Priority 1—a child at risk of serious abuse or neglect.
Priority 2—a child of a parent (or both parents if you
have a partner) who satisfies the Government’s work,
training, study test (for the purposes of the priority of
access guidelines)*.
Priority 3—any other child.
Within these main categories priority should also be given
to:
children in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families
children in families which include a disabled person
children in families from a non-English speaking
background
children in socially isolated families
children of single parents.
*Note: To satisfy the work, training, study test for the
purposes of the priority of access guidelines, both you and
your partner (if you have one) must have work, training or
study-related activities at some time during the week or have
an exemption. No minimum number of hours is required.
More information is available in Fact Sheet 7.
A child care service may require a Priority 3 child to vacate a
place to make room for a child with a higher priority. They
can only do so if you:
Locked Bag 4028 Ashfield NSW 2131
02 9716 2100
www.det.nsw.edu.au
[email protected]
OPEN DOOR POLICY
We have an “open door” policy at Penrith Early Learning
Centre. Parents may visit their children in our facilities any
time they wish. We do ask parents who plan to visit their
children frequently to follow the children’s routine. We also
ask that you make an appointment if you wish to meet with
the Centre Management or a staff member.
Parents, family members and others, at the discretion of the
Management, are welcome to stay and join in the program
with the children.
The Management must ensure that the needs of individual
children and the service are of paramount concerns at all
times. During an arranged visit, parents are to maintain the
usual behaviour management practices of the centre.
Should this not occur the Management will insist the
standards of the centre are maintained.
Details of any court orders affecting the custody of the child
of which the Management is aware, must be taken into
account.
GENERAL INFORMATION I 17
HOURS OF OPERATION
CHANGES TO DAYS/ WITHDRAWING OF DAYS
Penrith Early Learning Centre is opened for 11 hours per
day, 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday 52 weeks per year
and caters for children from birth to 6 years of age. We are
not open on public holidays.
Please fill in the change of day/withdrawing form located
at the centre, once completed please give your form to
the supervisor in charge at the centre.
FEES
CHANGE OF CONTACT DETAILS/CHANGE OF
AUTHORISED PEOPLE TO COLLECT YOUR
CHILD
$82 per day including all meals, sunscreen and
programmed learning experiences. Remember that Child
Care Rebate covers 50% of out of pocket child care
expenses* this means that you could pay as little as $41 per
day or maybe even less. To find out what you are eligible for
and how to bring this down even further, please call us
today or contact Centrelink on 136 150 of for more
information visit their website:
http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/centre
link/child-care-rebate
CHILD CARE BENEFITS
A family subsidy (Child Care Benefit) is available from the
Family Assistance Office (FAO). The Family Assistance
Office will assess parents’ taxable income and a scale
will be used to determine the amount of assistance each
family will receive. Please arrange with the Family Assistance
Office to have your Child Care Rebate paid to the Service.
It is essential that we are kept informed of any changes to
your contact details E.G. changes in work place and phone
numbers, changes of address, changes to those people
who you will allow to collect your child from care. Changes
to Contact Details form can be obtained from the authorised
supervisor.
NOTE:
Only those persons nominated on the Enrolment Form will
be able to collect children.
If court orders prevent a parent from collecting your child
you must provide this information with your enrolment
form.
If an emergency requires someone unlisted to pick up
your child you will need to give verbal permission to TWO
staff members of the unauthorised collector’s license
details which will be checked on pick up,
BOND
At Penrith Early Learning Centre we require a 2 week full fee
security bond for each family, this is refunded at the end of
your time at the centre. This bond is a one off payment
unless you enrol another child in the service or make
changes to your booking.
FEE POLICY AND PAYMENT METHOD
We understand that this may be hard for some families,
therefore we offer a payment plan that can be set up for
your convenience.
THE FORTNIGHTLY CHARGING CYCLE
CHANGES TO YOUR ENROLMENT
If you need to change your enrolment at any time during
the year you are required to give to full weeks notice. This
notice starts once the correct form is filled in completely; it
is supplied at the Centre for your convenience. Emails and
physical letters are not accepted as appropriate notice
given.
At Penrith Early Learning Centre we require each family to
pay via Direct Debit as a condition of enrolment.
Our system is automated therefore; every parent will be
direct debited on the same day. Each Family will receive an
invoice the week before the direct debit comes out of your
account, to alert you of how much will be taken, if you have
a casual day in the cycle please remember that you will be
charged for that day on in the next closest direct debit.
Once you receive your statement please check it carefully, if
there are any questions or concerns that you have please
contact us as soon as possible via email
[email protected].
18 I GENERAL INFORMATION
ABSENCES
In making a permanent booking you are committing to each
of the days you have chosen, including public holidays
therefore if your child is away you will still be charged for the
day as we must still provide staffing, food and resources.
However, if you would like to permanently change days or
withdraw from the centre, you must complete the
changing/withdrawing form located in the office two full
weeks before your last day or you will be charged in lieu of
this notice.
WAITING LIST
When our rooms have full enrolments, children’s names
will be put onto a waiting list. Once a position is vacant,
parents are then contacted about placement. When
parents wish to change days to other days, this can be
effective immediately provided the group enrolment is not
full. If it is full the child’s name will be placed on an internal
waiting list. Once a position is available your days will
then be adjusted. Our waiting list gives priority to working
parents as per Priority of Access Guidelines.
HOLIDAYS
If you are taking your children on holidays we require the
withdrawing form to be completed two weeks prior to your
last day. Once you have returned from your holiday you may
re-enrol according to the available days at the centre, a new
enrolment form will not need to be completed, unless you
are returning in a new year.
Penrith Early Learning Centre is closed all Public Holidays
but open 52 weeks a year.
ENROLMENT
To enrol in the service we legally require certain information
and as a business we also require other information that is
listed below and in our policies and procedures manual.
Information required to enrol your centre include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
A Completed Enrolment Form
Birth Certificate
Immunisation History
Completed Direct Debit Form.
Penrith Early Learning Centre aims to provide a quality,
caring and safe Program for your child/ren. We seek your
cooperation by complying with the conditions set out below.
Your signature on the Enrolment Form indicates your
acceptance of the following conditions.
ALLOWABLE ABSENCES
Refer to DEEWR for allowable absences. It is VERY
IMPORTANT that all families who are receiving government
payments are aware of this system. 42 allowable absences
are given to each family for each child in a financial year.
Should you go over your allowable absences without
appropriate documentation your CCB, JET, SCCB or
GCCB payments may cease.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE
For safety and security reasons ALL children must be signed
in on arrival, and signed out on departure. The times must
be noted. No child will be allowed to leave our Service with
a person who is not stated on the enrolment form, unless
prior arrangements are made with a nominated Supervisor.
Signatures and times are important; if no signatures or times
are entered it may be deducted from your tax return at the
end of the financial year, at full fees.
It is a condition that you advise us in advance of your arrival
and departure times so that we can ensure we have the
correct number of staff at any given time Whenever possible
we like to speak with parents and carers of the children after
the day ends to communicate what happened throughout
the day. We suggest family members arrive at least 10
minutes prior to closing time.
GENERAL INFORMATION I 19
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
CLOTHING
Our policies and procedures are available in the foyer for all
parents.
Parents are advised to send their children to the Service in
comfortable, inexpensive clothing. The children need to be
able to move around during their play period and should be
unimpaired by clothing. While certain items will come out
in the wash, accidents do happen so it is best to send the
children along in their “less than good clothes”. Young
children
enjoy and need “messy” play with paint, clay, sand, water
and mud. Please ask our staff about our own good quality
valuable preschool shirts.
VOLUNTEERS AND INCURSIONS
Volunteers
Volunteers are welcome at the Service. The Nominated
Supervisor ensure their suitability prior to their placement.
If you would like to come to the Service as a volunteer
please talk to the Nominated Supervisor.
Incursions
The Service organises visitors such as musicians,
storytellers and animal displays. These incursions occur
once every eight weeks. There is a small fee per child,
usually ranging between $10 and $15 each. We aim to
keep this as low as possible. The children love these
special fun filled educational events.
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Penrith Early Learning Centre is involved in the new
National Quality Standard (NQS) assessment process. This
process is managed by the Department of Education and
Communities (DEC). More information about assessments
and ratings can be found at www.acecqa.gov.au
Please mark your child’s clothing and replace name
tags if they fade in the wash. Ensure clothing is weather
appropriate. Ensure toddlers have about three complete
changes of clothing and plenty of training pants.
Please do not dress your child in clothing with cords e.g.
shorts, hats etc. These have the potential to become caught
on equipment and may cause serious harm to your child.
Please ensure that your child is not coming to the Service
with any accessories that may pose a risk to your child
and other children attending. These include: bracelets,
necklaces, broaches, and dangling earrings. Studs are
acceptable, or very tiny sleepers.
BELONGINGS
We are continually examining our practices and seeking
to improve the service we provide to children and families.
We are a great team of Early Childhood Professionals
and we put every effort into running a service that is up
to date with all modern studies and government policies
and procedures. Wherever possible, we attend training
sessions that are either held in house or externally to
further improve our practices. We believe you never stop
learning. If you have ideas for improvements you would like
to see implemented please talk to the Director or staff.
Please ensure all belongings are clearly labeled such as
dummies, clothes etc. Lost property is placed in the lost
property labeled drawer in the foyer area. Parent cooperation
in labeling assists the Service in keeping your
child’s belongings together.
A soft toy or comfort item is acceptable for rest time. The
Service discourages toys from home and we will not hold
any responsibility for any personal belongings.
20 I GENERAL INFORMATION
LOCKERS
Each child is allocated a locker. Please place bags etc in
your child’s locker. If your child attends less then five days
per week, they will share their locker with another child.
Please ensure all items are removed at the end of each day.
If you require further information on this policy please ask a
staff member and/or refer to the policy book. Please note
our room rules and discuss these with your child.
REST AND SLEEP
We are a Sun Safe Centre, please ensure your child arrives
at the centre with sun screen applied. Our Educators re
apply sun screen before going outside. Please see the
policy folder in the foyer for further information on our Sun
Safety Policy.
Rest time routine varies according to individual needs.
We aim to make rest time a relaxed, pleasant time for all
children. We provide cots and stretcher beds for children
for 0- 3 years old and sleep mats for our 3- 5 years old.
Your child may wish to bring a comfort item or blanket to
have at rest time. Please feel free to discuss your child’s
rest needs with Educators.
GUIDANCE AND DISCIPLINE
COMMUNICATION
Educators follow a Behaviour Guidance Management
Policy which extends across the whole service giving
consistency of expectation in all rooms. This policy allows
children to develop self- discipline, a respect for others and
for property, and respect for self. The policy aims are:-
Staff or parents may organise parent meetings. We believe
the best way to work with you and your child is by building a
partnership of care. Open communication, a flow of
information about what is happening, and parent
feedback all contribute to a successful partnership.
SUNSCREEN AND SUN PROTECTION
To give all children the opportunity to expand their
experiences of life in a productive safe environment
that allows individuals the right to safety, tolerance,
self- expression, cultural identify, dignity and the worth
of the individual, along with honesty in dealing with
peers and care givers.
To be taught to respect the rights and needs of others
by foreseeing the outcome of their behaviour and the
consequences of their behaviour.
What is the best way to communicate with you?
Everybody has a different communication style and time
for communication. We try to accommodate your needs
by allowing time to discuss the day with Educators upon
arrival and pick-up of your child. For longer discussions
please make an appointment.
Ways we will be communicating the events of the service:
To encourage the individual social development of
each child.
Face to face verbal interactions at arrival and
departure times.
The centre uses positive reinforcement behaviour
management practices.
Kinderloop interactive application
Children who are putting themselves or others in danger
may be placed in a thinking spot and parents may be
contacted or asked to have a friendly ‘working together’
meeting with the room leader.
Invoicing and accounts are sent via email. Hard
copies available at reception upon request.
Regular newsletters which will be sent home via email.
Hard copies available upon request at reception.
Parent diaries in our rooms.
A notice board where various messages and notices
are displayed advertising current issues and up
coming events.
Parent meetings are held where parents
can raise any issues or topics they feel relevant and
contribute to decision making.
GENERAL INFORMATION I 21
A communication box is located in the Service. Parents
are able to leave more detailed written messages, for the
purpose of expressing concerns, positive or evaluative
input that they feel they need to let Educators know
about. These can be anonymous if so desired.
Short surveys in order to maintain up to date records and
seek parent feedback on various topics.
Policies and procedures will be regularly reviewed in a
variety of ways. During this time a notice will be placed
in the foyer inviting parent input.
CONFIDENTIALITY AND DISCRETION
Information received through written and spoken
communication with families will be treated with discretion.
At any time if you require a private discussion with our
Educators, please inform us. This can happen face to face
or by phone.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM EDUCATORS
Educators will make every effort to communicate effectively
with families.
Educators will inform families promptly and sensitively
of any out of the ordinary incidents affecting their child.
Educators will share with children’s families some of
the specific interactions they had with the children
during the day.
Information on children’s eating and sleeping patterns
at the Service will be provided to families through
verbal communication and/or daily information sheets
displayed in the room.
When families and Educators make a joint decision that
affect children’s progress, interest and experience, a
record will be kept in the appropriate form. (These may
include new events like toilet training.) Please feel free
at anytime in person, by phone or email to discuss your
child’s progress, relationship, interest and experiences.
Professional Conduct as outlined in our code of ethics
please feel free to read our code of ethics in the policies
and procedures manual
GRIEVANCES, COMPLAINTS AND FEEDBACK
If for any reason you are not happy with our level of care
or care environment, we want to know immediately. If
you have any concerns, please see your child’s Educator,
Nominated Supervisor or write a formal letter. We have a
Grievance Policy and Procedure if you would like to formally
raise any concerns. All service policies are made available
to parents. Positive feedback is most welcome and much
appreciated.
COURT ORDERS
Parents must notify the Service if there are any court orders
affecting residency of their children and a copy is required
for the Service. Without a court order we cannot stop a
parent collecting his or her child.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT
This is vital to ensure maintenance of a quality Service. Your
contribution of ideas, experiences and skills are welcomed
and greatly valued.
Parents are welcome to visit or call the Service at any
time. If you have any talents or hobbies, we welcome and
encourage you to please share them with the children.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
In accordance with our illness exclusion policy the Service
provides a healthy and safe environment for
children, Educators and families to grow and develop
in. The Service has a Health, Safety and Hygiene Policy
regarding illnesses and medications. Children with
contagious illnesses are required to be kept at home
and a Doctor’s certificate must be presented to show
that the infection cannot be passed on when the child
returns to the Service. Children who have not been
immunised will also excluded if there is a reported case of
excludable illness has been reported at the centre.
22 I GENERAL INFORMATION
FOOD ALLERGIES
Penrith Early Learning Centre is a nut free centre, please
ensure your children who have consumed food containing
nut eg. Peanut butter, nutella, etc. are clean and clothing is
free of nut containing foods. We are an allergy aware Service.
Only fruit is permitted tobe brought from home at anytime.
We have a fully serviced kitchen that provides all food for
children at the Service. Please ensure you do not have any
food in your child’s bag as this can be accessible to another
child. Please inform the Nominated Supervisor if your child
has any allergy and arrange a meeting with the Cook.
ILLNESS
Penrith Early Learning Centre has very strict policies in
regard to illness of children whilst at the Service.
In your child’s first year of Early Childhood Education and
Care your child will be exposed to many germs within the
natural environment. It is very normal for the child in their
first year to pick up an average of 10- 12 viruses within a
child care setting.
The Service disinfects and sanitises all equipment and
resources daily. All oral toys used by our children (mouthing
toys) are disinfected immediately. These procedures are to
assist in minimising infectious outbreaks. We require all of
our families to assist in keeping our Service and children
healthy, therefore we will expect that if your child presents
as unwell you will not bring them to the Service.
Staff will use the most up-to-date version of the “Staying
Healthy, Preventing infection disease in early childhood
education and care services” to determine if your child is
able to be at the Service.
If your child is not well enough to participate in the general
program of the day and are requiring 1:1 care they will be
determined as unable to stay due to staff/child ratios. As
per our policy, should your child develop an illness whilst at
the Service including:
Temperature over 38oC
Vomiting x 2
Diarrhoea x 2
Head lice
Conjunctivitis
Your child will be sent home. See full Exclusion Guide.
NO CHILD will be admitted with obvious signs of any
highly contagious infection or illness. Our policy states
the incubation period, symptoms and exclusion periods
of such diseases. Children who are not immunised will
be required to remain absent from the Service during any
exclusion period.
WHEN CHILDREN PRESENT WITH TEMPERATURES
Penrith Early Learning Centre follows the guidelines of the
National Regulatory Framework under “Staying Healthy,
Preventing infection disease in early childhood education
and care services” these guidelines clearly require that
any child who presents with a temperature of 38oC cannot
remain at the Service. At all times staff are aware that young
children running a high fever are at increased risk of having a
Febrile Convulsion which is a “fit” or seizure.
Please note: If we have given your child Panadol at the
Service whilst we await for your child to be collected, and
your child’s temperature drops to a normal range, your
child will still be required to go home. As your child has
been given Panadol your child will naturally be feeling better
and may appear well, they are however not allowed to
stay at the Service. We do understand that you have work
and other commitments, if you arrive and see your child
appears to be well please be patient with the Educators.
The Law requires us to follow these rules to reduce the
spread of infectious diseases. It may appear frustrating,
however these rules are here to protect us all.
If we are unable to reach any emergency contacts on your
child’s enrolment form, including the parent; for permission
to give Panadol, and you have NOT allowed the Service
to administer Panadol on the enrolment form, the Service
is required to call an ambulance. An ambulance will also
be called if your child is awaiting collection and their
temperature raises to 39oC.
The persons who enrolled the child are responsible for any
ambulance costs.
GENERAL INFORMATION I 23
MEDICATION
Educators will be able to administer medication to
children who are recovering from illness. A medication
form must be completed and signed by parents before
any medication will be given. All prescription medication
must be prescribed for your child and not another family
member- unless stated otherwise by a Doctor’s certificate.
Medication must be in date and in it’s original packaging.
The medication must be handed to a Educator to store
in a locked container in the fridge. Please DO NOT leave
medication in your child’s bag.
Any child who has commenced antibiotics must not attend
the Service for 24 hours from commencement.
USING THE SERVICE SAFELY
Never leave children unattended in cars while collecting
children from the Service.
Cars parks are dangerous places for children, always hold
children’s hands when arriving and leaving the Service.
Obey the 5km per hour speed limits in the car park.
Never leave a door or gate open.
Never leave your children unattended in a room.
Children are not permitted into the kitchen and laundry
areas. Please use the hand sanitizer upon entry to each
of the rooms.
WORK PLACE HEALTH & SAFETY FEEDBACK
ASTHMA
The Service aims to provide a safe environment for children
who have asthma. It is the Service Policy that an “Asthma
Record Plan” be completed by parents/guardians in
consultation with the family Doctor. It is also a requirement
that the record plan be reviewed by your family Doctor
annually or as circumstances change. This must be
completed and returned before enrolment commences.
These will be available at the time of enrolment.
SUNSCREEN AND SUN PROTECTION
Our Service’s policy is “no hat, we need to be in the shade”.
We provide all children with their own hat that stays at the
centre. Please refer to our Sun Safety Policy which is located
in the foyer.
ACCIDENTS
In case of an accident or illness occurring at the Service,
the Nominated Supervisor will contact parents if deemed
necessary. As a matter of extreme importance parents
must ensure that the Service has up to date emergency
contact numbers. An incident report will be filled out,
outlining the accident and signed by the Educators
who observed and administered first aid, as well as any
witnesses. The Nominated Supervisor’s and parent’s
signature will also be required. Any injuries above the
shoulders no matter how minor will result in a call to the
parents.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
Throughout the year the Service will hold emergency drills
which occur at any given time throughout the day. These
are carried out in a well- organised and orderly manner.
Educators will be trained in using the fire extinguishers that
are in the Service. An emergency escape plan is displayed
in every room. Drills are completed every 3 months in
accordance with National Regulations.
We welcome all feedback regarding the safety of our Service.
If you see something that concerns you regarding safe work
practices, the safety of building and equipment or general
WHS, please contact the Nominated Supervisor immediately.
CONTACT INFORMATION
The Service provides families with current information on
child and family resources and services accessible in the
local community. Our Service has a parent library with
resources you may find helpful.
ACECQA is the new national body ensuring early childhood
education & care across Australia is high quality.
Address:
Level 15, 255 Elizabeth Street,
Sydney, NSW, 2000
Postal Address: PO Box A292,
Sydney, NSW 2000
[email protected]
Email:
1800 181 088
Phone:
Family Assistance Office Phone: 13 6150
Australian Childhood Immunisation Register
Phone: 1800 653 809
Emergency Services Police, Fire, Ambulance 000
Informative Websites For Parents Raising Children Network
The Australian parenting website: comprehensive,
practical, expert child health and parenting information and
activities covering children aged 0- 8 years.
www.raisingchildren.net.au
24 I HELPFUL HINTS
Helpful Hints
The following outlines some helpful hints for parents on
settling their child into Early Childhood Education and Care:Make sure you familiarise your child with the
environment and the people in the environment
(children and adults) by coming in for visits before
commencing care (your Orientation Day).
Ease your child into care with short stays to begin with.
Provide a favourite toy, blanket or comforter to support
your child when they are separating from you or settling
to sleep. This can help your child feel more secure.
If your child is unsettled, short visits with you will help
your child to gain trust with an unfamiliar environment.
These visits can be made on a day when your child is
not booked to attend.
Interactions between Educators and parents or
Educators and other children can produce positive role
models and be reassuring. This experience can help to
establish trust in an unfamiliar setting.
Talk at home about Penrith Early Learning Centre. Mention
the names of the Educators and other children. Talk about
the fun things your child will be doing at the Service.
Talk to the Educators about your child, for example,
what they like to do; successful ways of settling them to
sleep; foods they like and dislike and so on. This helps
Educators to get to know your child.
When leaving your child it is best to make sure you say
goodbye and then leave. Reassure your child that
everything is alright and you will return later, this can help
them to settle. Hesitation about leaving having already said
your goodbyes can confuse your child and leave them upset.
It sometimes helps to establish a routine when leaving.
For example, giving your child a cuddle and giving them
to a Educator or sitting down with them for a short play or
reading a book together, then leaving.
At first some children protest strongly while others may
take a day or two to realise that you are leaving them
and begin to protest after several days. Children soon
learn that you do return and in the mean time they are
safe and well cared for.
USEFUL BITS
We are always on the lookout for recyclable items for the
rooms. Empty food containers, ribbons, wrapping paper,
towel tubes (not toilet, egg or milk containers due to
re- hygiene and allergy) paper or anything interesting from
your work is much appreciated.
FAMILY PHOTOS
Our aim is to create a warm, friendly and homely
environment. One way we like to achieve this is by having
family photos displayed. Please bring in a copy of your
family for us to display in the room.
SUGGESTIONS
If you have any other suggestion or idea on how we best
can work together in the Service and together with your
child’s program please let us know.
HOW CAN YOU CONTRIBUTE I 25
How you can contribute
FAMILY SKILLS, INTERESTS AND TALENTS
We welcome all family members to our Service and we
encourage where possible for families to be involved in
their children’s programs. There are many ways for your
family to be involved. We understand that our busy lives
can’t always afford the time, however any contribution, no
matter how big or small, is much appreciated. Here are just
a few ideas.
YOUR OCCUPATION
Your child loves you and when they get to the Service all
they talk about is you. You are the most important person
in their world. We welcome all parents to the Service
to talk about their occupation or hobbies. Everything
parents do interest children and these talks are the best
educational resources you can provide for the Service.
After occupational discussions we use the information in
our programming. The ideas explored from parent talks
can last for weeks.
READING (ESPECIALLY GOOD FOR
GRANDPARENTS)
Children love to be read to. If you or your parents have the
time please contact your room Educators to organise a day
for reading.
USEFUL BITS
We are always on the lookout for recyclable items for the
rooms. Empty food containers, ribbons, wrapping paper,
towel tubes (not toilet, egg or milk containers due to
re- hygiene and allergy) paper or anything interesting from
your work is much appreciated.
FAMILY PHOTOS
Our aim is to create a warm, friendly and homely
environment. One way we like to achieve this is by having
family photos displayed. Please bring in a copy of your
family for us to display in the room.
YOUR HOME CULTURE
SUGGESTIONS
Your home culture is most welcomed in our Service. We
would greatly appreciate it if you were able to share with our
Service aspects of your culture and family life. This would
assist us to enrich the lives of all our families and children.
If you have any other suggestion or idea on how we best
can work together in the Service and together with your
child’s program please let us know.
We look forward to a wonderful
and rewarding partnership with all
families, as we guide your child’s
development and learning during
these important years and prepare
them for school.
Please visit
www.penrithchildcare.com.au
for access to our enrolment
form or phone reception for
more information.
120 Woodriff Street
Penrith NSW 2750
t: 02 4721 4651
e: [email protected]
w. www.penrithchildcare.com.au
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