|
We recognize that family members are a child's
first teachers. One of our goals is to develop a healthy partnership that
includes members of your family, your child and our staff. Together, we
will be able to help your child make a positive connection between home
and school. We encourage family members to participate in our program
through classroom visits, parent meetings and parent child activities.
We also welcome informal involvement in our program.
Please let the Director or Head Teacher know if you or any member of your
family would like to share a talent, read a story to the children, teach
them a song or dance, share a favorite cooking recipe, or volunteer in
any other way.
Parent Meetings and Activities
Every September, the Child Development Center hosts
an informative orientation meeting for families of children enrolled.
Parents and/or guardians have the opportunity to meet and talk with members
of the current staff. The Director and the Head Teacher present an overview
of all Center polices and procedures, review the Family Handbook, explain
and give examples of the curriculum format, activities, and learning outcomes.
Attendance at this important meeting is strongly recommended for both
new and returning families.
Regular parent meetings are held each year. We urge
everyone to attend. These meetings provide families with information about
upcoming Center activities and provide opportunities to meet other parents.
Past topics have included a review of the Family Handbook's policies and
procedures, a schedule of parent/child activities, and a re-creation of
a child's daily routine and schedule, including participation in circle
time and "playing" in our learning centers.
The Child Development Center organizes parent-child
activities on a monthly basis throughout the academic year. Information
is placed in each child's cubby and posted on the parent bulletin board.
Curriculum calendars are placed in each child's cubby before the first
day of each new month. The calendar lists many of the stories, songs,
and cooking activities. In addition, it provides additional information
(date, time and place) regarding the scheduled parent child activity for
the month.
Past parent and child (classroom) activities have included
for our autumn harvest celebration, the county fair, and international
bread day. We have also had classroom visits from a well known children's
author, and a visit with a children's storyteller. Off campus activities
have included a trip to a local children's museum.
Parent Teacher Conferences
Two parent/teacher conferences are scheduled fall
and spring during the academic year regarding the development and progress
of each individual child. Conferences also provide an opportunity for
you to share with about your child's interests and home activities. Fall
conferences are normally held in November/December and Spring conferences
in April/May. A parent or teacher may request additional conferences at
any other time during the year. We feel open, two-way communication is
an essential part of our partnership with you.
Separation Issues
This may be your child's first school experience.
Some children adjust to new situations and environments sooner than other
children do. It is not uncommon for children to feel anxious during their
first days or weeks. When it is time to leave it is very important that
you do not sneak away from your child, but once you say goodbye to your
child, it is best to leave. Feel free to call the Center to see how your
child is doing. Please refer to Appendix 1 for a list of important Center
related phone and fax numbers. The staff is sensitive to the needs of
any children who are experiencing separation anxiety and will give them
lots of "TLC".
Visiting Your Child
Once your child has settled in and understands
both his or her routine and yours, you may stop by and visit the Center
at any time. Please feel free to join us for storytime or at lunchtime
or any time your schedule allows. The Center looks forward to your visits,
and welcomes your company. When dropping off, picking up, or visiting
the classroom, please remember that the staff is not responsible for younger
or older siblings. It is your responsibility to watch them at all times.
Annual Program Evaluation and Concerns
All families are asked to complete a questionnaire
annually. Your fulfillment of this request enables both the faculty and
staff from the Child Development Center and the College of Education to
evaluate and assess the effectiveness of the program, to make improvements
as necessary, and to monitor how efficiently we are meeting departmental
standards. Your cooperation is appreciated. We do read and use the information
you provide to improve our services and monitor how effectively we are
meeting our mission and goals, and your needs. If you are receiving CCAMPIS
grant benefits, you will also be asked to complete an additional questionnaire
each semester.
A parent who wishes to report or discuss a problem or concern regarding
any aspect of the program can speak directly to the Head Teacher. If the
Head Teacher is not able to address the concerns, the parent may request
a meeting with the Director. If at any time the parent does not feel that
the Director has addressed his/her concerns, the parent should contact
the Dean of the College of Education. Please refer to Appendix 1 for a
list of important Center related phone numbers.
Non Discrimination Statement
The Child Development Center does not discriminate
on the basis of race, color, age, sex, religion, creed, national origin,
sexual orientation or disability. University policies and practices are
consistent with federal and state laws pertaining to equal opportunity
in admissions and education policies, and other school administered programs.
Confidentiality
The Child Development Center adheres to the Family
Education Right to Privacy Act. It is your right to have information regarding
your child and family treated in a confidential manner. We will not disclose
or exchange any information regarding your child without your written
authorization.
|
