Frequently Asked Questions

ARE PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS AND DAY CARE CENTERS THE SAME?

We have a planned curriculum for both programs, but they are different. Our childcare center houses the after school program for Kindergarten through 3rd Grade, where they enjoy being together as a group. Homework help and fun activities are a part of their day at the center. The preschool curriculum is for 18 months through kindergarten readiness (ages 4/5) that assists children in developing a positive outlook on learning and being a part of an organized group of peers. This helps them to become more curious about their world and comfortable in trying new things. Working together and successfully handling new tests are an integral part of their busy day. 

WHAT IS UNIVERSAL PRE-KINDERGARTEN AND DO YOU OFFER THIS PROGRAM?

Of course! Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) is a program developed by the Clarence Center School District and implemented by some community based early childhood programs throughout the district, including us. All of our preschoolers ages 4/5 participate the year prior to them starting kindergarten. Parents can enter their child into the "lottery" and if selected, you will be awarded 5 hours x 5 days per week complimentary from the district. This is the only difference between the UPK and non-UPK students. We prepare all children for their first year of grade school through our Kindergarten Readiness program.

IS THERE A DAILY ROUTINE OUTLINED BY THE TEACHERS?

Yes! There is a basic schedule that each classroom will follow. Depending on the age of the child will determine the different times for activities throughout the day. This helps the children to transition smoothly between activities and form structure for their day. 

A basic example is as follows: morning greetings, free play, clean up (bathroom + hand washing), snack time, circle time, activities, outdoor play, clean up, lunch, rest, free play- inside and outside (weather permitting) and goodbyes. 

IS REST TIME REQUIRED?

The New York State Office of Child and Family Services, which licenses all centers, requires a rest period for all children. Some children benefit from their and take full advantage of this time to rejuvenate their bodies, while some children will simply lay quietly on their bed during the rest period. Giving children's bodies some inactive time to relax is very important, especially after a full morning of activities. 

ARE THERE OPPORTUNITIES FOR PARENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN ACTIVITIES?

Absolutely! Parents are invited on the field trips and to special presentations throughout the year. We also have informal times of sharing that may include a visit with the child/ren for their birthday, read stories and help in the classroom.

IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO TO HELP MY CHILD AT HOME FOR THEIR TIME AT DAY CARE?

Yes! Be positive about the experiences your child will have here. Foster more independence in your child- dressing themselves, table manners, washing hands, finding things for themselves, etc. Give your child some responsibility at home on a regular basis such as putting away toys, setting the table and clearing away their dishes. These tasks will help them to develop a positive attitude about their accomplishments at school as well as home. 

WHAT IF MY CHILD IS SICK OR HURT AT DAY CARE?

Please be assured that your child will be well cared for in any instance. You will be notified at once about a sick child and may be asked to come and pick him/her up early. If they do not feel well at night or in the morning before school and are not able to participate fully in the program, then they should be kept at home. In the event of a minor injury, there will be a written accident/incident report for parents to sign upon picking up your child. In case of an immediate emergency, 911 will be called first and then we will call the family. Our first concern will always be your child. 

HOW DO YOU ENSURE MY CHILD'S SAFETY WHILE AT THE CENTER?

Both centers have locked doors from 9am until late in the afternoon. There is an intercom system throughout the building so the teachers, director and owner may be in contact with each other. Our staff is required to be Infant, Child and Adult CPR and First Aid certified by the American Red Cross. We are also M. A. T. trained to administer medications. Our children practice fire drills monthly to be prepared in an emergency. The outdoor play area is fully fenced in all around the building and the playground has safe and soft ground cover. The equipment is checked regularly to ensure your child's safety at school.