Maple Leaf Children's Center - Handbook
Table of Contents

THE 12 MOST IMPORTANT THINGS
to remember when your child attends Maple Leaf Children's Center

  1. PARENTS ARE WELCOME TO VISIT OR CALL AT ANYTIME.
  2. MAKE SURE WE CAN ALWAYS CONTACT AT LEAST ONE PARENT SOMEWHERE AT ALL TIMES.
  3. PLEASE DON'T BE LATE AT THE END OF THE DAY; IF IT'S UNAVOIDABLE, CALL SO WE CAN REASSURE YOUR CHILD.
  4. DO NOT ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO BECOME TOO DEPENDENT ON ONE TEACHER OR FRIEND, SINCE THAT PERSON MIGHT NOT ALWAYS BE AVAILABLE.
  5. IF YOUR CHILD IS ILL, PLEASE STAY HOME WITH HIM.
  6. ALWAYS LET US KNOW WHEN YOU DROP OFF OR PICK UP YOUR CHILD. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT. WE PANIC EASILY.
  7. PLEASE BE SURE TO TELL US IF ANYTHING UNUSUAL HAS HAPPENED PRIOR TO ARRIVAL THAT MIGHT AFFECT YOUR CHILD'S BEHAVIOR WHILE AT MAPLE LEAF.
  8. IF WE NEGLECT TO TELL YOU, PLEASE ASK US HOW YOUR CHILD'S DAY WENT.
  9. PLEASE PROVIDE PROPER CLOTHING FOR ALL POSSIBLE WEATHER CONDITIONS ON ANY GIVEN DAY.
  10. YOUR CHILD'S BEHAVIOR AND WHEREABOUTS ARE YOUR RESPONSIBILITY WHEN YOU ARE PRESENT AT MAPLE LEAF, UNLESS OTHER ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE WITH THE STAFF.
  11. PLEASE TRY TO ARRIVE BY 8:45 IF YOUR CHILD ATTENDS MORNINGS. AND ALWAYS SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR CHILD BEFORE LEAVING.
  12. 12. BE VERY EXPLICIT WHEN YOU NOTIFY US THAT SOMEONE ELSE WILL BE PICKING UP YOUR CHILD. IT SHOULD ALWAYS BE SOMEONE YOUR CHILD KNOWS AND WE RECOGNIZE. OTHERWISE WE WILL ASK FOR POSITIVE IDENTIFICATION.

History and Description

Maple Leaf Children's Center, Inc., is a non-profit, tax exempt corporation that opened its doors to young children in January , 1976. It was started by Joan Crosson and Mary Rodriguez in the Thetford Hill Fire Station and moved to its present location in the First Congregational Church in February, 1977. We have no religious affiliation with the church. Our Center occupies two large sunny rooms in the church and is licensed by the Vermont Agency of Human Services to provide care for a maximum of 18 children at a time . Each year we serve about 40 families, and the children usually range in age from 2 to 7 years. The overall operation of Maple Leaf is the responsibility of a Board of Directors, consisting of up to five parents, one community member, and two staff members, including the Director. The staff is comprised of the director, who is in charge of the day-to-day operation of the Center, and three teachers who are responsible for curriculum planning and implementation.

Maple Leaf Children's Center is actually a community of many people working together to create a rich, nurturing environment for our children. We hope that parents will take every opportunity to get know the staff and the other families at Maple Leaf, to help with the volunteer activities that are so critical to the well-being of our Center, and to join the fun at our four family gatherings scheduled each year: a pizza party (with pot-luck dessert) in September, a winter solstice celebration in December, a sledding party in February and an end-of-the-year picnic in June.

Philosophy

At Maple Leaf our primary goal is to meet the social and emotional needs of young children, which we feel are so critical to their future happiness and success. We strive to create a vital play-based setting in which the children feel safe, challenged, and appreciated as individuals. All young children, regardless of gender or race, deserve to know the full range of possibilities open to them in life. We view creative play as key to all the growth and learning that takes place during the early childhood years. A well-planned playspace provides for a wide variety of experiences reflecting the child's natural interests and abilities. Pre-school children learn best through repeated, concrete experiences involving as many of their senses as possible. We offer structured activities for the children , but we also stress the importance of self-directed, independent play, aways remaining available to offer assistance and foster basic problem-solving skills.

At Maple Leaf we hope the children will begin to gain a sense of personal responsibility and to learn the sutle nuances of behavior in a group setting. Several times throughout the year we sit at circle with the children and discuss together the best ways to act --- the need to treat others the way we want them to treat us, how we should take good care of the things we use (and clean up after we are done), and how to protect ourselves from injury. If the children forget, we first give them a quick, simple reminder. If that does not work we will talk things over in more depth. If they are still having trouble we will remove them from a situation until they are able to handle things more creatively. We feel that being clear about our expectations and consistent in our responses helps the children feel more secure and conveys to them how much we care.

The question often arises as to what Maple Leaf actually is -- a day care center, a nursery school, or a pre-school. In the past decade, as research has confirmed the importance of the early childhood experience, the differences in these three types of programs have become much less distinct. While we do not expect the children at Maple Leaf to learn to read or require that they complete work sheets or an art project to be sent home every day, our program, particularly during the morning, includes a wide variety of early math, science, and language activities. We play games that develop memory and problem-solving skills. There are materials and equipment available to promote all aspects of large and small muscle coordination. Although our main emphasis is on social and emotional growth--- teaching the children to respect and listen to others, helping them to share and take turns, and validating all the many feelings they experience during their day--- your child's intellectual, physical, and creative life is considered seriously and nurtured in ways we feel are developmentally appropriate.

We strive, therefore, to provide a supportive, loving environment for the children, to encourage their growth in all areas, and to be a transition between the early years at home with family and the years ahead in school.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors manages the affairs of Maple Leaf Children's Center , Inc. An annual meeting of the members of the Corporation (all parents of children presently enrolled) is held each fall for the purpose of electing new Board members, who will serve for a period of two years. The Board consists of up to eight positions, and terms of office are staggered so that no more than 60% of the members will be elected in one year. Regular meetings are held once a month for the purpose of establishing policy and receiving a report from the Director. The Board may appoint committees to assist in the supervision, management, and control of the affairs of the Center, such as Fundraising, Long Range Planning, Personnel, and Grants.

In the fall all families will receive a list of current Board Members. The By-laws call for all parents to maintain active participation on all levels of the functioning of the Center, and Board Members will call several times during the year to solicit your help and suggestions.

Staff

The staff at Maple Leaf is hired by the Board of Directors with great care and consideration. The Director and the teachers come to the Center with a varied background of experience and training, which is augmented by attendance at workshops and training sessions several times a year. A staff member is always present who is trained in Infant and Child First Aid and CPR. At staff meetings an ongoing assessment of our program takes place, and our relationships with the children, their parents, and each other is constantly scrutinized. In addition, all staff members undergo a yearly review by members of the Board.

Parents and others in the community with a special sensitivity to the needs of young children are always in demand to serve as substitutes when members of the staff are unable to work, and we ask that you notify the Director of anyone who might be both interested and qualified. It should be noted that in the rare instance that several staff members become ill or are unable to work on the same day, the Director, in consultation with the Board Chair, may deem it in the best interest of the children's safety and welfare to close Maple Leaf with very little notice.

The Board is committed to maintaining the highest quality care at Maple Leaf. In order to attract and retain qualified caregivers, and in so doing, create a stable, secure and rich learning environment for our children, we seek to provide wages and benefits comparable to other child care centers in the area. We look to demonstrate in other ways, as well, our appreciation to the staff for their dependability and devotion to our children, and hope that all parents will treat the staff with the utmost respect and consideration.

Operation

Maple Leaf offers two separate programs, one that coincides with the regular school year at Thetford Elementary and another that runs for eight or nine weeks during summer vacation. A calendar with important dates for the year is provided at the start of our regular program in the fall, and monthly calendars are distributed with birthdays, snack assignments, and important dates. Due to adjustments that must be made at Thetford Elementary for snow days, the exact date in June when our regular year ends is announced each year by May 1. The dates for our summer program, and for the start of our regular year the following fall, are also determined at this time. Our regular hours are as follows:

All Day        8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
School Day        8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Mornings        8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Children in school may also be enrolled for these times:

After School        3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Fridays after Kindergarten        11:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Children attending after school will either take the bus or be met by a staff member and walk back to Maple Leaf. On Fridays, a staff member will meet the kindergarteners and stay with them at Latham Library until 2:00 PM. An early drop-off time of 7:30 AM is available by special arrangement with the Director. Otherwise, if you arrive early we ask that you remain with your child until 8:00 AM so that teachers may prepare for the day.

The dates when Maple Leaf is CLOSED are as follows:

Labor Day
Staff Conference Day (date announced at start of regular year)
Thanksgiving (Thursday and Friday)
December 24-31
New Year's Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
The week following our summer session

Maple Leaf is OPEN during the Winter and Spring vacations at Thetford Elementary.

General Policies and Information

  1. Everyone who works with young children in Vermont is mandated by state law to report all cases of suspected abuse or neglect within 72 hours to local law enforcement officials or the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services.
  2. Arrival time in the morning should be by 8:45 am to allow your child time to separate, greet friends and play for a while before project. If you arrive later, be prepared to stay with your child until a staff member is free. Please do not try to leave your child with a staff member who is involved with a group activity or who is preparing snack.
  3. Maple Leaf has an answering machine which is used only when we are out or unable to answer the phone immediately. If your call is not urgent, please try to reach us between 11:00-11:45 am or 1:15-2:00 pm.
  4. Please be certain to let a staff member know when you pick up or drop off your child at Maple Leaf. This is particularly important if someone else is bringing your child, so be sure to remind that person to come into the room with your child and have a staff member help your child get settled.
  5. It is extremely important that each child have the proper clothing and footwear while at Maple Leaf. Layered outerwear for days when the temperature varies widely (most days!); boots when it's raining, when it might rain, or when the dew is heavy (again, most days!); sneakers or sturdy shoes that fasten securely, with non-slippery soles for running, climbing, and long walks (no slippers, jellies, sandals or party shoes); and water-proof mittens in the winter that fit snugly and will keep hands dry (no knit gloves, please, except in the fall or spring).
  6. We attempt to take the children outdoors every morning and afternoon, unless it is raining hard or is extremely cold. Since tolerance to the cold varies, all children will be dressed to go out on cold days but will be allowed to come in to warm up whenever they become uncomfortable.
  7. To try to cut down on the influx of toys from home and the problems that result from difficulty in sharing, breakage, and loss, Maple Leaf has a Magic Bag that each child gets to take home on a rotating basis. This bag may be filled with special things from home that the child wants to show the other children at circle time. This includes toys, but also things such as pictures, books, or souvenirs that have special meaning to the child and will stimulate her to talk to the group about what she has brought. Please, no weapons, real or pretend! Books and natural treasures, such as rocks, feathers or cocoons, which a child has discovered outdoors, may be brought in at any time. The children may test you on this policy but we have found that if we stick to it firmly they end up much happier.
  8. Starting at 1:00 pm, all children rest quietly on their mats for at least an hour. We play music or story tapes, and the children can have books and stuffed animals. At 2:00 pm the children who are awake can get up and play at quiet activities in the main room or go outside.
  9. All play with weapons, real or imaginary, is strongly discouraged. We try to help the children understand that even pretending to hurt another person is not okay, and that pointing fingers, sticks or toys close to another child's face could really hurt them.
  10. When a child is ready to be toilet trained the staff will work closely with the family to assist in the process. We are eager to promote a child's success and realize there are bound to be a few accidents along the way.
  11. Maple Leaf has a computer which the children can use with the various educational pre-school programs we have available. Children can use the computer for up to ten minutes at a time, generally during freeplay, and the staff keeps a log to monitor its use. While some parents welcome the opportunity for their child to become more familiar with computers, others prefer that their child pursue other activities while at Maple Leaf. Please be sure to let the staff know if you would like more information about how we use this technology, or if you would rather your child not use it at all.
  12. Please include a spoon or fork with your child's lunch as necessary. Leftover food will be returned so parents know what's been eaten. We don't allow the children to share food, and we strongly discourage artificially sweetened and chocolate-covered treats that distract the children from eating more nourishing items. Candy, gum, and soda should not be brought into Maple Leaf.
  13. Before pulling out of the church parking lot, please try to move as far to the right as possible to allow more room for others to pull in and to give yourself more time to avoid cars approaching from the left on Rt. 113. Also, in mud season half of the parking lot may be roped off for use as a temporary playground, so enter with caution. Always enter with caution!
  14. Almost all cubbies are shared by children who don't attend at the same time. Please take home all personal belongings at the end of your child's day. Let the staff know if there is no room at your child's cubby.
  15. Wish lists will appear occasionally with items we need that someone might have to donate. Watch for your chance to help!
  16. A form authorizing the staff to take your child on field trips and walks must be signed at the time of enrollment. We try to give at least one week advanced notice of field trips taken by car, and all children under 5 years of age must be in approved car seats. We take walks without prior notice but always leave a note on the door to let parents know where to find us.
  17. For birthdays, parents may bring in special treats for all the children, to be enjoyed after regular snack is over in the morning. We have candles and everyone sings . If parents want to organize more of a celebration they should talk with the staff beforehand.
  18. Order forms from the Firefly Book Club will appear from time to time in your hall pocket. These are mainly for your convenience (the prices are great!) and though we do earn credits toward free books, please don't feel the need to order each time.
  19. Maple Leaf has access to a television which we use on a very limited basis. A teacher is always present and children always have the option of pursuing another activity. If parents have questions about the types of programs we watch or just do not want their child to watch TV at Maple Leaf, please be sure to let the staff know.
  20. Please label your child's clothing, especially boots. Our lost and found box is under the easel at the bottom of the steps. After it's been full for a week or two, we recycle!
  21. We mark a child's last day by giving small gifts, a personalized card and singing our farewell song. Please be sure to let us know exactly which day will be your child's last at Maple Leaf.
  22. After a child's first month at Maple Leaf, parents and staff will meet to discuss how well he or she is adjusting and to decide together if attendance should continue. Otherwise, three weeks notice is requested to withdraw or change your child's hours.

Late Pick-up Policy

Parents are expected to pick up their child no later than the time agreed upon in their billing contract, preferably arriving at least five minutes early so parents can talk with the staff about their child's day and leave without rushing. At 1 PM and 3 PM, the staff member assigned to stay with the children who are leaving needs to be able to move on to other duties, and at 5 pm the teachers depend on being able to leave on time and make plans accordingly (to meet friends for dinner, to attend a class, to pick up their own children...). They have probably spent the last nine hours with up to 18 young children and are undoubtedly ready for a break. Even more importantly, children become very anxious when they are the last one left and fear they may have been forgotten. Please be sure to call ahead if you are unavoidably delayed, or to notify the staff that someone your child is well aquainted with will be coming instead.

As a preventative measure, the Board of Directors has established the following policy regarding late pick-ups. At the first occurance, staff will ask to make sure parents are aware of Maple Leaf's policy. The second time, a fee of $1.00 per minute will be assessed, payable to the teacher who must stay late (after 1 PM or 3 PM, the extra charge will be added to your next month's tuition statement). After the third occurance, the late fee will be assessed as before, the Board will be notified and a letter will be sent out by the Director seeking ways to resolve the problem, detailing what options remain. After the fourth occurance the Board will decide what further action to take. This policy also applies if someone other than a parent is scheduled to pick up your child.
Remember, though this policy may seem somewhat harsh, it is meant to be preventative rather than punitive. The last thing the staff or the Board wants to do is have this be an issue requiring our attention.

Parent Involvement at Maple Leaf

  1. Parents are welcome to visit Maple Leaf at any time and have unlimited access without delay to their children and the staff during our normal hours of operation.
  2. Any problems or grievances relating to Maple Leaf Children's Center should be discussed immediately with the Director . Parents should also feel free to contact members of the Board if they have not received a satisfactory response by other means. In order to avoid simple misunderstandings and to preserve the integrity and trust so critical to our business, we strongly urge parents to come to us first with their questions or concerns.
  3. Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled twice a year, in the fall and spring, and whenever else parents or staff feel it is important to meet.
  4. We ask that parents let the staff know of any distress or changes your child may be experiencing at home --- special visitors, a missing pet, even if he slept poorly or didn't eat breakfast. These factors can have a big impact on his behavior and require greater sensitivity to his needs.
  5. Please call Maple Leaf if your child will be late or absent.
  6. All newsletters and other important communication will be left in your pocket on the wall in the entrance hall. Other notices will be posted on the easel in the hall or on the bulletin board. Please read these carefully.
  7. Parent volunteer work-days are scheduled on Saturday mornings in September and May to do necessary cleaning and maintanence of our rooms, equipment and playground. We need everyone's help!
  8. Maple Leaf likes to take the children on field trips and we sometimes need parent volunteers to help drive. We also need parents to help cover during staff meetings and conferences, and occasionally to substitute when a staff member is sick. Please let us know if you can help.
  9. We schedule four family gatherings during the year: a pizza party (with pot-luck dessert) in September, a winter solstice celebration in December, a sledding party in February, and an end- of-the-year picnic in June.
  10. We encourage parents to come in and share a special activity with the children. Telling stories, cooking a favorite dish, playing music, demonstrating a craft, or talking about your travels are just some of the possibilities. Let the staff know if you would like to visit.

School Closings

When Thetford Schools are closed (or opening late) due to snow or ice, Maple Leaf will open at 9:00 AM, as long as at least two staff members are able to make it in to work. Listen to WTSL, 92.3 FM or 1400 AM, for notification. Please do not drop your child off, or leave him with another parent, before 9:00 AM, and do not leave if only one staff member is present.
Serious icing is the most common reason for school to be closed.

We may also decide to close early if travel becomes hazardous in the afternoon. We will try to contact parents by phone, but ask that you also call us whenever there is a major storm during the day.

On rare occasions it may be necessary to close Maple Leaf if two or more of our regular teachers are unable to work. Parents will be notified as soon as possible by the Director or members of the Board. Please remember to let us know if you would be willing to substitute under such circumstances.

Your Child's First Day

  1. Please bring in all necessary enrollment forms.
  2. In a backpack or sturdy bag please bring a change of clothes, proper outerwear for the day, a plastic bag for wet or soiled clothing, and any other necessary personal items, all labeled clearly with your child's name. This will be kept at your child's cubby in the hallway and should be taken home daily for inspection and renewal!
  3. Bring lunch, a drink, and enough extra food for snack if your child attends in the afternoon. PLEASE, no candy, gum, soda or other "junk" food. We strongly encourage children to eat, but if they are not hungry we do not force the issue. Uneaten food will be returned. Morning snack is provided by each family on a rotating basis.
  4. Any special instructions or information about your child should be communicated directly to a staff member.
  5. SEPARATION. This is a very critical part of your child's day and often requires special attention. If you anticipate difficulty when you leave your child, please discuss with us beforehand the best way to handle this situation. For the first few days it's usually good to allow plenty of extra time to help your child get comfortable. Read your child a story, try to get her involved in an activity, or find a teacher who is free to sit with her when you leave. We recommend, though, that you don't encourage your child to become too dependent on one particular teacher or friend, since that person might not always be available. MOST IMPORTANTLY, ALWAYS REMEMBER TO SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR CHILD. No matter how difficult it may seem at the time, a child has even greater difficulty moving on with her day if a parent does not let her know he is going. We will ALWAYS contact you if your child is inconsolable, or anytime you want us to call to let you know how things are going. We have several excellent articles on separation available for parents to read and are always ready to discuss this issue further with you.
  6. At pick-up time we suggest that your first interaction be with your child. Try to wait until after you have greeted your child to speak with staff or visit with friends. Occasionally children will "act out" as soon as their parents arrive or when their attention is diverted. Your child's behavior and whereabouts are your responsibility as long as you are present, unless other arrangements have been made with the staff.
  7. Try to arrive at least five minutes before pick-up time so we can let you know about your child's day. If we are busy or forget, please do not hesitate to ask. And check the board on the door to the main room for a brief account of our day.
  8. Whenever you have questions or concerns about your child's health, welfare or behavior at Maple Leaf, the staff encourages you to speak to us immediately. If it is not convenient to talk with us during the day, or an issue arises after we close, feel free to call us at home before 9:00 PM. In an emergency, contact us at anytime. Please save financial and scheduling questions (or other matters of a less critical nature) until regular business hours. The best time to call is between 11:00-11:45 am and 1:15-2:00 pm.
  9. Please don't allow your child to run around in the parking lot or climb on the trash container next to the porch. Parents often find pick-up time to be a good opportunity to visit, but the potential for tragedy is very great.

Daily Schedule and Activities

8 AM - 9 AM: ARRIVAL AND FREEPLAY

After hanging up backpacks in the hall and putting lunches in the refrigerator, the children are free to choose whatever activity around the room appeals to them. The tables will be set up with three different types of learning opportunities, and the dress-up area, block rug, and book corner are open as well. This is also a time when some parents enjoy staying to play with the children, to talk with teachers or other parents, or to watch the children at play.
Please try to arrive by 8:45 to ensure a smooth transition for your child. It is generally much easier to say goodbye and begin the day during free-play than during clean-up, project or snack time. If you do arrive later, please speak with a teacher not involved in a group activity if you want to leave a message, have a question, or need help with separation. We appreci- ate your understanding of how important this can be to the other children and to the staff.

9 AM - 9:30: AM GROUP TIME

Children are separated into two groups according to age and ability. Projects and special activities are planned, following our weekly theme or relating to another interest or need that has arisen. Activities during this time are more structured and more teacher direction is offered.
All children, taking age and ability into consideration, are expected to actively participate in cleaning up and putting away toys at the end of free play and group time.

9:30 AM - 10 AM: CIRCLE

Circle time is for singing, laughing, sharing ideas, playing games, acting out stories, and doing whatever else strikes our fancy. We generally begin with a few songs, then move on to a discussion, which is a "teaching time" for an issue that has come up in the classroom, explores a topic raised by the children, or follows our current theme. We also use this time to act out our favorite stories or play games, such as "What's Missing", "Simon Says", or "Who's Under the Blanket". Circle closes with another song and then we call for snack, with a song using each child's name or a game using something distinctive about each child, such as the road she lives on, her parent's job, or the color of her clothing.

10 AM - 10:30 AM: SNACK AND BATHROOM

Snack is provided on a rotating basis by the parents of children attending in the morning. More information is provided later in the handbook.
The bathroom is available at all times of the day but we especially encourage children to use it after snack and after lunch, since some get so engrossed in play that they forget until it's too late.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM: OUTSIDE/GROSS MOTOR

We attempt to take the children outside every day unless it's dangerously cold or too wet. It affords them time to gain coordination and strength by running, climbing, swinging, and riding bikes. We have a wonderful playhouse, a large sandbox, a zip wire between the trees, and many other outside toys.
Field trips and walks occur during this time also. We often walk up Houghton Hill Road, over to the Green, up to Thetford Academy, or behind the Library to the Elementary School. We leave a sign on the outside door or down in the hallway telling where we are, and you will always know in advance of a trip requiring transportation by car.
If the weather does not permit us to go outside we use the nap room to set up our gross-motor equipment---climber, slide, mini-trampoline, mats, and large blocks.

12:00- 12:20 PM: HAND-WASHING AND CIRCLE

12:20 - 1:00 PM: LUNCH AND DEPARTURE

1:00 - 2:00 PM: REST-TIME

All children stay on their nap mat for an hour. They can have books and stuffed animals, but are expected to lie quietly so others can sleep. At 2 o'clock those still awake get up for quiet activities in the other room or to go outside.

2:00 PM-3:45 PM: FREEPLAY, INDOORS OR OUT

3:00 PM: MORE DEPARTURES

3:15 PM: AFTER-SCHOOL CHILDREN ARRIVE

3:30 - 4:00 PM: SNACK

4:00 - 4:50 PM: STORIES AND GAMES

4:50 - 5 PM: PREPARE FOR DEPARTURE

Morning Snack

As mentioned before, snack is provided on a rotating basis by families whose children attend in the morning. Approximately every six weeks parents will be responsible for bringing in snack for all 18 children . On the monthly calendar each family will be assigned a day and what to bring. The list of menus which we provide includes snacks that do not require any lengthy preparation. However, we encourage substitutions of homemade specialties within the guidelines given. Families may swap days, but please tell the staff. Special treats, such as cupcakes or ice cream, may be brought in on your child's birthday (we provide the candles and music) but are served after and in addition to our regular nutritious snack. There is no need to exchange days with the family scheduled to bring in regular snack on your child's birthday.

Children attending in the afternoon should have enough packed in their lunchbag for afternoon snack.

Annual Fall Enrollment

  1. For children already attending Maple Leaf, forms are distributed at the beginning of April for enrollment the following Fall.
  2. Priority for enrollment is given on the following basis:
        A. Those already enrolled, for the same days and hours
        B. Those already enrolled, for extra spaces as available
        C. Siblings of those already enrolled, depending on age and space restrictions
        D. Those on waiting list
        E. The general public
  3. Forms must be returned by the two-week deadline indicated.
  4. After a child's first month at Maple Leaf, parents and staff will meet to discuss how the process of adjustment is progressing and to decide together whether it is in everyone's best interest for attendance to continue.

Withdrawal Policy

If you decide to withdraw your child from Maple Leaf, or to reduce your child's hours, you must give Maple Leaf THREE WEEKS notice. Unless we are able to find another child to fill your space before the three weeks are up you will be charged for the time, whether or not your child attends.

Our Summer Program

Billing and Tuition Information

Maple Leaf has a standard hourly tuition rate and families sign contracts for a set number of hours per week. Families are responsible for that amount whether or not their child actually attends. Statements are placed in hall pockets and tuition is due in advance, on the first of each month. A late fee of $15 is assessed if tuition is not received by the 7th of the month.

A space available list is posted on the refrigerator in the main room so parents can "sell" time if they know their child will not be attending. Once a family has signed up for another child's spot it becomes their responsibility to pay for the time or re-list it. All adjustments to accounts will be reflected on the next month's statement. If families need extra time we ask that they check the space available list on a daily basis or call on the day they need care to see if there is space. It will not be the staff's responsibility to notify you of space and there is no space-needed list.

If you think you may qualify to be charged tuition according to our sliding fee schedule you must complete a financial disclosure form. You will be charged tuition at the standard rate until this form is submitted and a determination made. If approved, tuition will be re-figured retroactive to the date your income changed or your child started at Maple Leaf. Forms must be re-submitted every six months or whenever your income changes substantially.
Because Maple Leaf is a non-profit organization attempting to provide the highest quality child care, we ask that you provide us with the most accurate, up-to-date data possible. The sole purpose of the sliding fee scale is to make child care available to families who might not otherwise be able to afford it.

We do not keep a copy of your income data on file, and you do not need to provide the information if you are above the highest rate. Your monthly rate is figured according to this formula:

MONTHLY RATE = HOURLY RATE X HOURS PER WEEK X WEEKS IN THE YEAR DIVIDED BY TEN MONTHS

The Board of Directors determines the need for increases in tuition and at least two months advance notice is given for any such change. Upon request, a total of tuition paid for a calendar year may be obtained from the Director.
Maple Leaf's federal tax identification number is 03-0263549.

Health Issues

If your child is unable to participate in all of our regularly scheduled activities, including going outside when it is cold, please be sure to keep him at home. We do not have the staff or facilities to care for sick children. If it appears to us that your child's energy level is below normal we will try to contact you to see if you know what might be wrong as well as to forewarn you. However, when you are notified that your child has become ill, it is expected that someone will be available to come immediately to take the child home or to a physician.

The following are conditions for which a child or staff member may be excluded from attending or working at Maple Leaf Children's Center, quoted directly from the CHILDREN'S DAY CARE LICENSING REGULATIONS FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS for the State of Vermont:

Medications

Also from state regulations:

  1. Prior to giving prescription medication to a child, written permission from the parent shall be obtained specifying reason for medication, dosage, content and schedule. Prescription medication shall only be given when:
          A. The prescription is for the child
          B. The medication is clearly labeled as to dosage, content, schedule, is in its original container and the date is current
          C. Dosage does not exceed the recommended dosage on label
  2. Written parental permission shall be acquired for dispensing non-prescription medication. Parents are to be notified in advance when non-prescription medications are to be used. Parents may grant general authorization for topically applied non-prescription medications.

Injury or Illness while at Maple Leaf

  1. The parent(s) of a child who becomes ill or who is injured at the facility shall be notified immediately. Severely injured children shall be moved only with the permission of the parent or by direction of a medical professional unless such are not available and immediate movement is necessitated by an emergency situation.
  2. An ill or injured child shall receive immediate attention from the staff. Clear plans shall be made to notify parent and make plans for the parent(s) or other designated person to pick up the child.
  3. If an accident or injury occurs while a child is in our care, which requires the services of a physician or dentist, a written report shall be placed in the child's file and copies submitted to the parent and the Division of Licensing and Regulation within two working days. For minor injuries parents will be told what happened when they pick up their child.

PLEASE DRIVE SLOWLY
EVERYWHERE ON THETFORD HILL
(and whenever children are likely to appear out of nowhere!)

Corporate By-Laws

ARTICLE 1: NAME AND LOCATION
The name of the corporation shall be Maple Leaf Children's Center, Inc. The corporation shall be located in Thetford, Vermont

ARTICLE II: PURPOSE
The purpose of this non-profit corporation shall be:
to provide quality care for children ages 1-6 in a warm, nurturing supportive atmosphere;
to promote social, emotional, intellectual and physical development of each child.

The corporation is not organized for the pecuniary profit of its directors, officers, or members, nor may any of it's net income, after operation expenses of all kinds, inure to the benefit of any director, officer, or member and any balance of money or assets remaining after the full payment of corporate obligations of all and any kind shall be devoted solely to the charitable, educational purposes of this corporation; or in the event of dissolution of this corporation, said remaining money or assets shall be dedicated to charitable or educational institutions.

This corporation shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, either in its hiring of personnel, admissions policies, or in the administration of its scholarship programs and all other rights and privileges accorded to the children enrolled.

ARTICLE III: MEMBERS
Members of the Corporation shall include all parents of children served and all hired staff. A list of members shall be kept by Maple Leaf Children's Center, Inc. and all members shall be informed of their rights, privileges, and responsibilities by reading the current By-Laws of the Corporation.

ARTICLE IV: MEETINGS
An annual meeting of the members shall be held each fall for the purpose of electing Board members and to transact any other business as may come before the meeting. Other general meetings may also be called to consider any issues pertaining to the affairs of the corporation. Meetings will be announced by a posted written notice at Maple Leaf. Each member will be entitled to one vote on each matter that is submitted to vote.
A quorum will consist of seven (7) members of the Corporation.

ARTICLE V: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors shall manage the affairs of the Corporation. Regular meetings of the Board, which are open to all members of the Corporation, will be for the purpose of establishing policies and receiving regular reports from the Director. Notice of meetings of the Board of Directors, including time, date, and place and agenda, are to be placed on a bulletin board at Maple Leaf Children's Center.

The Board of Directors shall consist of up to eight (8) positions- The makeup of the Board shall include five (5) parents, one (1) community member, and up to two (2) staff including the Director. Each representative shall have one vote and a simple majority vote will rule.

A quorum will consist of four (4) members of the Board.

Members of the Board will serve for in period of two (2) years, with the terms of office staggered so that no more than 60% of the Board will be elected in one year. A nominating committee shall propose a slate of new members each year. Nominations will also be accepted from members of the Corporation before the annual meeting or from the floor at the annual meetings.

ARTICLE VI: OFFICERS
The officers of the Board shall consist of a Chairperson, a Secretary and a Treasurer.

A Chairperson - The Chairperson shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors and shall be responsible for setting the time, place and date of meetings.

B Secretary - The Secretary shell keep minutes of meetings and furnish copies. The Secretary shall conduct the correspondence of the corporation as directed.

C Treasurer - The Treasurer shall work with the Director and the Bookkeeper to oversee and maintain correct accounts of the business transactions of the Corporation. The Treasurer will also disburse the funds of the Corporation for proper expenses as directed.

The Board of Directors may appoint committees to assist in the supervision, management, and control of the affairs of the Corporation (e.g. Fundraising, Long Range Planning, Personnel, etc.)

ARTICLE VII: REFERENDA
At any time when the Board of Directors, or any five (5) members of the Corporation so desire, a poll or referendum of the Corporation will be held by written ballot. These polls will not be binding on the Board of Directors, but should be taken into account in decisions made by this body. The elected Board has the final decision after a referendum.

ARTICLE VIII: INDEMNIFICATION
Each Director and Officer of the Corporation now or hereafter serving as such shall be indemnified by the Corporation against any and all claims and liabilities to which s/he has or shall become subject by reason of serving or having served as such Director or Officer, or by reason of any action alleged to have been taken, omitted, or neglected by him/her as such Director or Officer; and the Corporation shall reimburse each such person for all legal expenses reasonably incurred by him /her in connection with any such claim or liability, provided, however, that no such person shall be indemnified against, or be reimbursed for, any expense incurred in connection with any claim or liability arising out of his/her own willful misconduct or gross negligence.

ARTICLE IX: DIRECTOR
The Director shall be responsible for the day-to day operations of the Center. The appointment and dismissal of the Director shall be the responsibility of the Board of Directors.

ARTICLE X: PARENTS
The parents shall be responsible for maintaining active participation on all levels of the functioning of Maple Leaf Children's Center.

ARTICLE XI: FISCAL YEAR
The fiscal year of the Corporation shall begin on the first day of January in each year and end at midnight on the thirty-first day of December of the same year.

ARTICLE XII: CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
All Board members shall be disqualified from voting on issues representing personal conflicts of interest.