Staff: General Policies & Procedures

POLICIES & PROCEDURES ORIENTATION PACKET

DO YOU KNOW OUR

VISION AND VALUES? Cultivate Mankato Main Street and Infant Development Center are Child Development & Resource Centers located in Mankato, MN. At both our locations, we seek to create opportunities for children to engage with their community and create meaningful relationships that cultivate a sense of belonging. Cultivate Mankato provides opportunities for children to learn about the world through hands-on, reflective learning and healthy dialogue. Through this framework, our goal is to provide an environment for children to build relationships of mutual caring and respect while exploring the world around them through play-based learning.

VISION Our vision is to cultivate an inclusive community working together to create a safe & stimulating environment of love & learning for all children.

Cultivate Mankato is rooted in developing strong, consistent, loving and respectful relationships with children, families, and care providers. We do this by nurturing children, making intentional efforts to grow communities, and empowering parents with the tools and resources they need.

VALUES LOVE Cultivating and nurturing children as individuals and providing a loving and safe environment.

Cultivating love in others.

AUTHENTICITY RELATIONSHIPS Being the best and truest form of yourself at all times.

COMMUNITY

Engaging with our Ensuring that community to everyone belongs, promote inclusiveness feels loved and is and provide provided opportunity engaging for growth. experiences for children.

CENTER-WIDE TRAINING

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Before you begin, make sure you watch this video

TIPS TO TAKE THE QUIZ

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BEHAVIOR GUIDANCE General Requirements/ Classroom Guidance Policy Persistent Unacceptable Behavior Prohibited Actions

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Separation from the Group

Seperation Report Children with Developmental Disabilities Behavior Guidance Overview video

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EMERGENCY & ACCIDENT POLICIES & RECORDS Administering First Aid & CPR

Missing Child Procedure

Accident Preventions & Safety Rules

Authorized to Pick Up Children

Daily Inspection of Potential Hazards

Emergency Medical Care Sources

Outdoor Activity Area/ Playground Safety

Recording of Accidents, Injuries, & Incidents

Fire Prevention & Safety

Annual Review of Accident, Injury & Incident Records

Emergency Shelters Emergency Preparedness & Response Plan

Children' s Records How to Access Child Files

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ALLERGY PROTOCOL Children Allergy Procedures

Epipens

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Prevention & Response tion

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HANDLING AND DISPOSAL OF BODILY FLUIDS Overview

Method of Compliance

Program Administration

Bloodborne Pathogen Information

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Explanation of Terms tion

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HEALTH POLICIES Administering First Aid & CPR

Child Health Records

First Aid Kit

Exclusion of Sick Children

Accident Prevention & Safety Rules Diapering

Children Who Become Sick at the Center

Toileting

Medications

Sanitation Procedures & Practices

Pets

(food not prepared by or provided by the center)

Sanitary Procedures & Practices

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(to prepare, handle, and store food for infants)

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MN DHS REQUIRED VIDEOS

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RISK REDUCTION

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PROGRAM DRUG & ALCOHOL POLICY

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PROGRAM ADMINSTRATIVE RECORDS

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CHILD CARE PROGRAM PLAN Ages Served, Hours of Operation Center Contact Information Center Licensed Capacity Center Philosophy Anti-Bias Awareness

Description of Specific Activities Conferences Program Plan Goals & Objectives

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Supervision of Children tion

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NAP & REST POLICY

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Preschoolers & Toddlers

Infants

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13 MALTREATMENT OF MINORS MANDATED REPORTING Who Should Report Child Abuse & Neglect Where to Report What to Report Failure to Report Retaliation Prohibited

for DHS licensed programs

Primary & Secondary Person or Position to Ensure Internal Reviews are Completed Documentation of the Internal Review Corrective Action Plan Staff Training

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Internal Review tion

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CLASSROOM POLICIES & PROCEDURES Active Supervision

What is a Study?

When a Child Runs

Pyramid Model

ProCare Guidelines

Community Room Expectations

Visual Rings

Room Binders

Circle Time Basics

Room Devices

Parent Communication

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BEHAVIOR GUIDANCE

General Requirements/Classroom Guidance Policy The Center’s daily schedule, curriculum plans, classroom arrangements, and staffing patterns are designed to promote safe, positive and enjoyable learning experiences, including respectful and trusting relationships among adults and children. These routines and limits are frequently discussed and defined with the children. Consistency, or knowing what to expect throughout the day, helps children develop a sense of trust and understanding in their environment. Positive, guiding communication with each child is our primary practice to help children develop a sense of independence, confidence, and competence in their own abilities to get along with peers and adults and to involve themselves positively in classroom activities. Teachers “model” language and appropriate ways for children to express their feelings and emotions. Our efforts in guiding children will focus on showing children appropriate behavior by ensuring the following points are carried out: 1. Ensure that each child is provided with a positive model of acceptable behavior; 2. Be tailored to the developmentally appropriate level of the children that the center is licensed to serve; 3. Redirect children and groups away from problems toward constructive activity in order to reduce conflict; 4. Teach children how to use acceptable alternatives to problem behavior in order to reduce conflict; 5. Protect the safety of children and staff persons; and 6. Provide immediate and directly related consequences for a child’s unacceptable behavior.

A child’s age, intellectual development, emotional make up, and past experiences will be considered in guidance, and consistency will be maintained in setting rules and limits for children.

The following is a list of some general (not age specific) child guiding techniques staff members’ use: Tell the child what she/he CAN do; Establish eye contact when speaking with the child; Give choices whenever possible, but only when the child really has a choice; Redirect a child to another activity; Help children learn how to join play.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Infant Guidance

QUIZ SECTION 2

Cultivate Mankato teachers, support staff, directors/managers will follow one or more of the following procedures: Staff will use distraction as a technique.

Staff will redirect child to another constructive activity.

Staff will remove child from a situation to protect the safety of that child and the other children.

Staff will remove the object from child saying in a positive way what you’re doing.

Immediate action works better than giving directions verbally. Staff should also be down on the floor close to the babies and move as the babies move. It’s expected that teachers and support staff in the infant classrooms will develop the ability to watch the entire room.

Toddler and Preschool Guidance In the toddler and preschool rooms, the staff are trained to follow the procedures listed below to help toddlers in conflictive situations and to help the room operate more positively: Staff will create an environment that is surrounded by positive remarks and is consistent so that conflicts between children are less.

Staff will have face-to-face interaction when setting limits, rather than talking from across the room.

Staff will provide children with what they can do versus what they cannot do (ex: say “walking feet inside” instead of “Don’t run or no running”).

Staff will limit the use of negative words such as “Don’t, Can’t, Won’t, and No. Staff will praise the toddlers as much as possible and will make intentional efforts to praise positive behavior.

Staff will give choices to children if they are refusing to do something. The choices that staff will give need to have the same outcome. (ex. Child does not want to wash hands. The staff can say, “do you want to put the soap on your hands or should I?” either way the desired outcome will happen).

Staff will help children resolve conflict between toys by helping to find another one of the same toy and give it to the child who wanted it.

Staff will teach children to talk instead of hurting. Some words include: Move, My turn, Help.

Staff will redirect children when you see a conflict that might take place.

Staff will give simple directions (2-3 words) (ex. Please walk or wash hands please) Staff will give children time to comply with requests and limits (about 10 sec) Staff will acknowledge the child’s feelings and desires as legitimate even if you cannot give them what they want.

Staff will document consistent unacceptable behavior. The staff are instructed to write such details as time, place, which child was hurt and how the staff handled the situation. The lead teacher shares this information with the parent at pick up.

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BEHAVIOR GUIDANCE

Persistent Unacceptable Behavior Cultivate Mankato is rooted in our core values of love, authenticity, relationship and community. These values are core to establishing a positive environment where children and staff are able to thrive. However, we realize that children are learning how to handle emotions and require some extra help in this area from teachers and staff. Our center does not tolerate profane or biased language or abuse to self or others.

Procedures for staff observation and recording of the child’s unacceptable behavior and response to the behavior are indicated below: The teacher will record the child’s unacceptable behavior on his/her daily record hosted on ProCare.

If a teacher has had to separate a child because the child’s behavior was threatening their own well-being or the well-being of other children, the teacher must record the separation in the Separation Report. Leadership must be informed ad called for assistance.

In extreme cases where a child’s unacceptable behavior persists, the teacher, support staff, and/or director will call the child’s legal guardian (or emergency contact if legal guardian cannot be reached) and ask that the child is picked up from the center.

The director will schedule a meeting between the parent/legal guardian and teacher as soon as possible to create an action plan.

Procedures for developing a plan to address the behavior documented in item A in consultation with the child’s parent and with other staff persons and professionals when appropriate are indicated below: Director, teacher, and parent will meet to put together a measurable plan for addressing and correcting the child’s unacceptable behavior. We will agree to the plan, set a timeline, and set measurable indicators of success.

The teacher will be required to maintain documentation that supports the plan and communicate progress toward the plan to the parent/legal guardian on a daily basis.

Outside professional consultation or evaluation may be necessary.

Occasionally a child does not adjust to the center environment or a child’s repeated behavior interferes with the daily activities of the center. In such cases the center reserves the right to request the child leave the program when there is no improvement in the child’s behavior subsequent to the implementation of the plan agreed upon by the parent, teacher and director.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Prohibited Actions

QUIZ SECTION 2

The Cultivate Mankato director may immediately reassign and/or terminate personnel at the center if the action is necessary to insure the safety, health, and/or welfare of the children, parents, and/or other staff. The following actions are prohibited by the center and are subject to immediate termination: Subjection of a child to corporal punishment, which includes but is not limited to: Rough handling Shoving Hair pulling Ear Pulling Shaking Spanking

Slapping Kicking Biting Pinching Hitting

Subjection of a child to emotional stress, which includes but is not limited to: Name calling Ostracism Shaming Making derogatory remarks about a child or the child’s family Using language that threatens, humiliates, or frightens the child

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BEHAVIOR GUIDANCE

Separation from the Group Separation of a child from the group except within rule requirements (see “Separation from the Group”).

Punishments for lapses in toileting.

Withholding food, light, warmth, clothing, or medical care as a punishment for unacceptable behavior.

The use of physical restraint other than to physically hold a child when containment is necessary to protect a child or others from harm.

The use of mechanical restraints, such as tying.

If any staff member of Cultivate Mankato is found out of compliance with the prohibited actions listed in this policy, the Director will immediately and without further notice terminate the staff member from employment at Cultivate Mankato. The Director will immediately report this behavior to DHS. The Director will notify parents/legal guardians accordingly.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Separation Report

QUIZ SECTION 2

All separations from a group must be noted on a daily separation report. Teachers must inform leadership and call for assistance. The lead teacher will log a separation on the Separation Report that includes items a-f: 1. The Child’s Name; 2. The Staff Person’s Name; 3. Time; 4. Date; 5. Information indicating what less intrusive methods were used to guide the child’s behavior; 6. How the child’s behavior continued to threaten the well-being of the child or other children in care

The lead teacher will notify the parent upon pick up of their child of the separation report. If a child is separated from the group three or more times in one day, the Lead Teacher, Program Lead, or Director shall notify the child’s parent/legal guardian and the notation of the parent notification will be indicated in the child’s daily report on Kinderlime. If a child is separated five or more times in one week, eight times or more in two weeks, the procedures in the Persistent Unacceptable Behavior policy will be followed.

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BEHAVIOR GUIDANCE

Children with Developmental Disabilities For children six weeks old but younger than 13 years old who qualifies as a “Child with special needs” as defined in 9503.0065, subpart 1, Cultivate Mankato must ensure that an individual child care program plan is developed to meet the child’s individual needs. A Child with special needs is defined below: 1. has developmental disabilities or is otherwise eligible for case management as specified in parts 9525.0004 to 9525.0036 and has an individual service plan specifying child care to be provided by the center; 2. has been identified by the local school district as a child with a disability as specified in Minnesota Statutes, section 125A.02, subdivision 1, and has an individualized education program specifying child care to be provided by the center according to Minnesota Statutes, section 125A.05; or 3. has been determined by a licensed physician, psychiatrist, licensed psychologist, or licensed consulting psychologist as having a special need relating to physical, social, or emotional development.

The individual child care program plan must be in writing and specify methods of implementation and be reviewed and followed by all staff who interact with the child. If the child has developmental disabilities or is otherwise eligible for case management as specified in subpart 1, item A, then the individual child care plan must be coordinated with the child's individual service plan developed under parts 9525.0004 to 9525.0036.

If the child has a disability as specified in subpart 1, item B, then the individual child care plan must be coordinated with the child's individualized education program developed under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 125A. If the child has a special need determined under subpart 1, item C, the individual child care plan must be coordinated with reports from the licensed Health Care Provider, licensed psychiatrist, licensed psychologist, or licensed consulting psychologist. The individual child care plan must be evaluated at least annually by the licensed Health Care Provider, licensed psychiatrist, licensed psychologist, or licensed consulting psychologist and with the child's parent to determine if the needs of the child are being met. The parent and center director will also meet annually to ensure the child’s needs are being met.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Behavior Guidance Overview Video

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QUIZ SECTION 2

Quiz TAKE THE Section 2 QUIZ Back to Table of Contents

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EMERGENCY/ACCIDENT POLICIES & RECORDS

Administering First Aid & CPR Staff is trained on emergency and accident policies as well as the center’s risk reduction plan at hire/orientation and then annually. Documentation of this training is kept on file as the Orientation Checklist at the center.

First aid is the immediate care provided to an injured or suddenly ill person, as soon as possible after an accident or sudden illness to preserve life, prevent the condition worsening and/or to promote recovery. While some first-aid situations will be minor (cuts, scrapes, bumps, bites, etc), we do need to prepare for more serious incidents. First aid does not take the place of professional medical treatment. Cultivate Mankato will ensure that at least one staff person is present during the hours of operation who has satisfactorily completed pediatric First Aid training and infant and child CPR training. This includes while on field trips and when transporting children in care, when all teachers and assistant teachers are in their first 90 days of work.

All teachers and assistant teachers and at least one staff person during field trips and when transporting children in care, will satisfactorily complete pediatric First Aid training within 90 days of the start of work unless the training has been completed within the previous two years.

The pediatric First Aid training will be repeated at least every two years. The training must be documented in the employee’s personnel record indicated on the Staff In-Service Training Record, as well as on the center’s Summary of Personnel Information Chart and be provided by an individual approved as a First Aid instructor.

All teachers and assistant teachers and at least one staff person during field trips and when transporting children in care, will satisfactorily complete training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) that includes CPR techniques for infants and children and in the treatment of obstructed airways. The CPR training must be completed within 90 days of the start of work, unless training has been completed within the previous two years. The CPR training must have been provided by an individual approved to provide CPR instruction, must be repeated at least once every two years. The training will be documented in the employee’s personnel records.

At least one teacher or assistant teacher who has satisfactorily completed CPR training must be present at all times in the center, during field trips, and when transporting children in care.

Persons providing CPR training must use CPR training that has been developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross and incorporates hands-on learning skills and testing to support the instruction; or using nationally recognized, evidence-based guidelines for CPR and incorporates hands-on learning skills and testing to support the instruction.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING In situations where First Aid is required, the first staff person certified on QUIZ SECTION 3 site that is certified in First Aid will deliver First Aid. The second staff person will remain with the other children. If additional help is needed, the director or additional staff person will be called. All accidents and injuries will be documented detailing the First Aid procedures used and will be kept on file at the center using ProCare.

Where the administration of first aid is required, only certified first aid and CPR staff will administer first aid.

Assess the situation; If necessary, and where possible, move others from any immediate danger or away from the incident Administer first aid; If necessary, call 9-11 and answer any questions to the best of your ability.

Notify the Director; Notify the parents and record all attempts at notifying If First Aid is required (even for a minor incident such as a scrape, bug bite, etc.), staff must complete an Accident and Injury Form.

Accident and Injury Forms are located in each of the classrooms. The staff member must give an accurate description of what happened, and what he or she did via First Aid (washed with warm soapy water, ice pack, etc.).

Give the child hugs and sympathy as they are important parts of treatment as well and can be noted.

Staff should make sure the date, time, and place of accident are reported.

Parents will get a copy of the report the same day.

If an incident involves another child, it is important to not identify that child by name. It is confidential.

Cultivate Mankato will ensure an adequate number of first aid kits are readily available at the center to meet the needs of the number of children present. First aid kits will be inaccessible to children (or locked) while remaining readily accessible to staff. First aid kits will be checked weekly to ensure they are fully stocked and contain no expired products.

The First Aid kits will have at least the following items: First Aid Quick Guide Manual Sterile Bandages Band-Aids in assorted sizes

Scissors Ice Bag or Cold Pack Sterile Compresses

Adhesive Tape Thermometer Epi-Pen

Gloves Plastic Bags

Other Required Items located in each classroom: Gloves Protective Eyewear

Sharps Container CPR Barrier

Flashlight Battery Operated Radio

Each classroom will be equipped with a First Aid Kit and First Aid Manual. Each classroom will also have one First Aid backpack that should be carried with on field trips and while outside during outside play.

First Aid Kits and First Aid backpacks will be checked on a weekly basis by the lead teacher in each room and stocked according to the First Aid Checklist.

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EMERGENCY/ACCIDENT POLICIES & RECORDS

Accident Preventions & Safety Rules Cultivate Mankato’s classrooms, playground, and common areas are arranged to be safe for children, staff, and parents. We’ve put in place safety rules to follow in order to avoid injuries, burns, suffocation, pedestrian accidents, poisoning, choking, and traffic accidents. All infants and children are within sight and sound of staff persons at all times. The following rules are in place to ensure accidents are avoided to the best of our ability:

Injury Prevention Outside doors and windows used for ventilation are screened to protect from insects.

Rugs will have non-skid backing or be firmly fastened to the floor.

Solid step stools (washable) are used for children to access the sinks.

Children will wear closed toe shoes while outside.

Safety gates are in place where needed to protect children from hazards.

Spills will be wiped up immediately.

Doors will have slow closing devices or door guards to prevent fingers from pinching.

Children are supervised in the bathroom and the bathroom door is kept closed when not in use.

Scissors (excluding age-appropriate scissors used under supervision), knives, and sharp objects will be kept out of reach of children.

Staff purses and bags are stored inaccessible to children.

Fans are inaccessible to children.

All electrical outlets are equipped with safety plugs.

Wading pools are not allowed.

Children will not be allowed to climb on furnishings other than designated climbers.

Children do not carry bottles, sippy cups, or disposable cups with them while crawling or walking.

All water play is carefully supervised at all times.

Infant walkers will not be used.

Safety buckles on high chairs and infant seats and equipment will be in place and used when children are using the equipment.

All staff persons and volunteers assisting in the care of infants receive training on reducing the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID). This training will be at least one-half hour in length and will be completed at least once every year. At a minimum, the training will address the factors related to SUID, means of reducing the risk of SUID, and license holder communication with parents reducing the risk of SUID. All staff persons and volunteers assisting in the care of children under school age will have Abusive Head Trauma Training (AHT) before they care for infants and children under school age and then annually. The training will address the risk of abusive head trauma from shaking infants and young children. AHT training will be at least one-half hour in length and, at a minimum will address, the risk factors related to shaking infants and young children, the means to reduce the risk of AHT in child care, and license holder communication with parents regarding reducing the risk of AHT.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Burn Prevention

QUIZ

Water temperature will not be set to exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit. No water SECTION 3 in the center may be any warmer than 120 degrees Fahrenheit maximum.

Hazardous and potentially toxic substances will be locked and kept out of the reach of children.

The kitchen is inaccessible to children.

Microwaves are not used by children.

Microwaves will not be used to warm infant food or bottles.

The center is smoke free and smoking is not allowed on the premises.

Staff will check outdoor equipment and make sure that it’s not too hot just prior to children using.

All electrical outlets are equipped with safety plugs.

Electrical cords will be out of the reach of children.

Staff will not have or drink hot liquids around children. This includes covered mugs.

Food will be allowed to cool before serving to children. Food will be served warm, not hot.

Overexposure to the sun is prevented by the use of protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen.

Sunscreen will be used and requires written permission from parents/legal guardians. Aerosols are not used at the center. Sunscreen is applied by staff wearing gloves and gloves are changed between each child to prevent cross contamination.

Suffocation Prevention

Infants and toddlers do not have bottles while in a crib or bed and do not eat from propped bottles at anytime.

Infants may only have a tight fitting sheet inside the crib.

All plastic bags/material will be kept out of reach of children unless children are directly supervised by an adult and the plastic bags/material is used for a learning activity.

Traffic and Pedestrian Accidents Prevention

The playground is fenced in.

Children will only cross the street with a parent or with a staff person(s) present.

A staff person will be at the front of the line with another staff person at the end of the line.

Children will be counted when leaving, returning and several times in between.

Traffic area and sidewalks are designated as high priority for snow and ice removal.

Staircases and elevators will be inaccessible to children unless an adult is present.

Field Trip Prevention

Written parental permission will be obtained from each child’s parent before taking a field trip either off site or on walking field trips (including any time we leave the facility for non-emergency and recreational activities). Parents will be informed of the hours, mode of transportation (including walking), and the purpose and destination of the field trip. Staff will take a First Aid backpack (including a First Aid manual), two-way radio, and child emergency cards on all field trips.

Poisoning Prevention

The Poison Control Center phone number is listed as an emergency number by all center phones and in every classroom.

All hazardous and poisonous substances are inaccessible to children.

All hazardous and poisonous substances are stored in their original container with the label intact.

All hazardous and poisonous substances are stored away from food.

Lead paint will not be used on walls, equipment, or toys.

Aerosol sprays will not be used in the center.

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EMERGENCY/ACCIDENT POLICIES & RECORDS

Daily Inspection of Potential Hazards Upon arrival, each classrooms’ opening staff will conduct a daily inspection of potential hazards within their designated classrooms.

The Daily Inspection Checklist will be completed and initialed by the staff conducting the inspection.

It will then be picked up by the Program Lead and scanned to a file.

Prior to children playing on the playground a staff member will conduct similar inspections to the outdoor area.

The Director inspects the facility periodically for potential hazards and corrections.

Twice a year the Accident and Injury Log is evaluated for hazardous areas.

Outdoor Activity Area/Playground Safety A daily inspection is completed to observe for potential hazards of the entire outdoor activity area.

An annual maintenance check is done at the beginning of each Spring on outdoor equipment to assess the need for repair.

Staff will check equipment to make sure it’s not too hot just prior to children using.

The playground is free of litter, rubbish, toxic materials, water hazards, machinery, animal waste, and sewage contaminants.

Any broken equipment or equipment in need of repair is removed and either disposed of or not used until it has been repaired and in safe working condition.

Children will only play on equipment appropriate for their age and size and be taught how to correctly and safely use playground equipment.

Staff will position themselves so that they may see all children on all areas of the playground. Staff are expected to join the children in play while maintaining sight of all children.

The playground is enclosed inside a fence.

Play equipment is installed over proper material with recommended fill depth and fall zones.

Preschoolers ages 3+ only

Preschoolers ages 5+ only Applies only to the top of the slide

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Fire Prevention & Safety

QUIZ SECTION 3

All staff are trained upon hire in procedures for fire prevention and procedures to carry out in the event of a fire. Fire extinguishers are inspected by an actively licensed fire extinguisher company and the required inspection record tag will remain affixed to the extinguishers indicating inspection dates.

Fire Drills

Fire drills are held every month. Fire drills are recorded in the Fire Drill Log that includes the date, the time of the drills, the number of staff and children present and the length of time to evacuate.

Posted Information

Primary and secondary fire exit routes are designated on the facility’s floor plan which is posted within the center at all exit doors.

Building evacuation routes are posted.

The telephone number of the fire department is posted.

Instructions of how to use a fire extinguisher are posted.

A relocation site posted at the center.

Using a Fire Extinguisher

All staff are trained on where the fire extinguishers are located within the center and how to use a fire extinguisher:

1. Pull the pin.

2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. Hitting the tops of the flame with the extinguisher will not be effective.

3. Squeeze the trigger. In a controlled manner, squeeze the trigger to release the agent.

4. Sweep from side to side.

Fire Evacuation Procedures

The first adult to come across the fire will pull the fire alarm and call 911.

The lead teacher in each classroom will evacuate children and make a head count. After evacuating the premise, teacher will take another head count. The teachers will take the First Aid Backpack and child care emergency cards.

The Assistant Teacher or support staff will close off the fire. If a teacher is alone he or she will close off the fire.

The staff and children will meet at the designated place of: Main Street Location: Carnegie Center for the Arts. Attendance and a count of children will be made.

Infant Development Center: Mt Olive Lutheran Church and School.

No one will return to the building until the Director and/or Program Lead have given permission and have been cleared by the fire department to do so.

The fire will be reported to DHS at (651) 431-6500 within 48 hours of a fire that requires the fire department.

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EMERGENCY/ACCIDENT POLICIES & RECORDS

Emergency Shelters If emergency shelter is needed outside of the building, staff and children will go to the designated relocation sites. Cultivate Mankato has procedures in place that outline the emergency shelters (shelter-in-place) for children and staff in the event of a blizzard, tornado, or other natural disaster pursuant to DHS regulations.

Blizzard

Cultivate Mankato and the Infant Development Center will attempt to stay open as often as possible within our licensed operational hours. If we need to close due to extreme weather, we will contact parents as soon as possible. We do not follow ISD 77 Public School District closings. The Director is the designated person to assume authority to close due to weather and, if the Director is not onsite, the Leadership Team and/or Site Supervisors will have authority. If the center closes in the middle of the day, Staff will remain with children until all children are picked up. Parents will have one hour to pick up their child if we close.

Tornado

Tornado shelter routes are posted on all of the doorways and have diagrams indicating which area of the center uses which in place shelter.

Main Street Process: - Ground Floor Infants on the ground floor in Infant Rooms 1, 2, and 3 will be carried or placed in cribs and each crib will be rolled into the Infant 2 room as close to the crib room as possible. Infants on the ground floor in Infant Rooms 4 and 5 will be carried or placed in the cribs and each crib will be rolled into the hallway. (note to self: also IDC process).

Toddlers on the ground floor will assemble in the hallway on the ground floor and assume a tucked position and cover their heads with their arms. Staff will do a headcount to make sure all children are accounted for.

- Second Floor Toddlers and preschool children on the second floor, will evacuate their classrooms according to the shelter route and will assemble in the hallways on the first floor in a tucked position and cover their heads with their arms. Staff will do a headcount to make sure all children are accounted for.

When weather is threatening, we will keep children away from the windows. Monthly tornado drills are conducted April to September and will be recorded in a Tornado Drill Log showing the time and date the drills were held.

IDC Process: All children and teachers will go into the hallway away from all windows and doors. Child care services will resume once it is safe to do so and damage has been assessed.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING QUIZ SECTION 3 The Director is the designated person to assume authority, and if the director is not onsite, the Leadership Team/Site Supervisors will have authority. Teachers will take the First Aid backpacks and Emergency Child Contact Cards. No one will be able to leave the shelter area until the all clear is given.

Other Natural Disasters Power Failure: In the event of a prolonged loss of power that the center would need to close, parents will be called to pick up their children. Battery operated flashlights and battery operated radios will be available for use. Staff will know where the fuse boxes are located.

Gas Leaks: In the event of a gas leak, the gas leak is treated the same way as a fire and the center will be evacuated following the fire evacuation procedures.

Hazardous Materials: 911 will be called as soon as a hazardous materials accident, spill or leak occurs. Staff and children will stay away from the incident and will evacuate the building per the fire evacuation procedures if necessary.

Pandemic Outbreak: The program will follow local and government agencies such as The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on pandemic planning and management.

Lockdown/Violent Incidents: If staff are threatened with situations such as a bomb threat nearby, a robbery, or a situation where an individual within the center is a target or is threatened, all staff and teachers will avoid confrontation and proceed to go into lockdown.

Main Street: Each classroom on the top floor will be used for lockdown. The lockdown shelters on the bottom floor are located in each infant crib room, the nursing room, and the employee bathroom. The shelters will be locked down by means of locking all of the doors, covering the windows (if it is safe to do so), turning the lights down and keeping everyone away from windows. 911 will be called and instructions will be followed. Staff will try to keep the children as quiet and calm as possible. Staff will wait for an all clear.

Parents/guardians of the children will be contacted as soon as danger has passed.

IDC: Infants in classroom #1 will lock all doors entering into the hallway. Teachers will have all infants move to either side of the room away from all windows and doors or into the crib room based on the shelter in place needs. All window shades will be drawn and lights will be shut off. Infants in classroom #2 will move to the teacher resource room if available or the crib room located at the East end of the classroom. All doors will be locked and shades will be closed.

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EMERGENCY/ACCIDENT POLICIES & RECORDS

Emergency Preparedness & Response Plan Cultivate Mankato has a written emergency plan for emergencies that require evacuation, sheltering, or other protection of a child, such as fire, natural disaster, intruder, or other threatening situation that may pose a health or safety hazard to a child. This plan is written on a Child Care Emergency Plan developed by the commissioner.

Staff persons are trained on the emergency plan at orientation, when changes are made to the plan, and at least once each calendar year. Training is documented in each staff person’s personnel file.

The program reviews and updates the emergency plan annually. Documentation of the annual emergency plan review is maintained in the program’s administrative records.

The plan is included in the program’s policy and procedures and is provided in either physical or electronic copy to a child’s parent or legal guardian upon enrollment and available upon request. The relocation site and evacuation route is posted in a visible place.

The Emergency Plan includes: Procedures for evacuation, relocation, shelter-in-place, or lockdown A designated relocation site and evacuation route Procedures for notifying a child’s parent or legal guardian of the evacuation, relocation, shelter-in-place, or lockdown, including procedures for reunification with families Accomodations for a child with a disability or a chronic medical condition Procedures for storing a child’s medically necessary medicine that facilitates easy removal during an evacuation or relocation Procedures for continuing operations in the period during and after a crisis Procedures for communicating with local emergency management officials, law enforcement officials, or other appropriate state or local authorities.

Emergency Plan for Main Street

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Emergency Plan for Infant Development Center

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Emer gency Pr epar edness & Res ponse Plan Evacuating Main Street

QUIZ SECTION 3 In an evacuation, teachers should grab the red backpack and iPad. Head to the relocation site by following the sidewalk leading out of the building following the evacuation map in the classroom.

The example to the left shows exiting the front and heading West on Main Street for the alleyway. For Classrooms exiting to the back of the Carnegie, follow the sidewalk to the alley and head South on the alley toward the back of the Carnegie Arts Center located at 120 S Broad St, Mankato, MN 56001

In an evacuation, teachers should grab the red backpack and iPad. Head to the relocation site by following the evacuation map posted in the classrooms (example to the left is exiting the building on Broad Street and relocating to the front of the Carnegie). For Classrooms exiting to the front of the Carnegie, follow the sidewalk on Broad Street and head South to the front lawn of the Carnegie Arts Center located at 120 S Broad St, Mankato, MN 56001

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EMERGENCY/ACCIDENT POLICIES & RECORDS Emer gency Pr epar edness & Res ponse Plan - Evacuating IDC

In an evacuation, teachers should grab the red backpack and iPad. Head to the relocation site by following the evacuation map posted in the classrooms. For Infant Rooms 1 and 2, please exit out of the East entrance, head through the parking lot to the sidewalk, and then travel North to Mt. Olive. located at 1123 Marsh Street, Mankato, MN 56001

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ALL STAFF TRAINING QUIZ SECTION 3

A person who is suspected of abuse attempts to pick up a child If a person suspected of abuse attempts to pick up a child, the following procedures should be followed. Staff should: Staff should call the Child Protection intake line at (507) 304-4444. The child protection staff can help you decide if a report should be made based on the information you provide.

If you have witnessed abuse attempts and the child is in immediate danger, call 911 immediately and report what you witnessed.

If you suspect that abuse is happening, but the child is not in immediate danger, staff can contact Blue Earth County Human Services by phone at (507) 304-4444.

Inform the director immediately of the suspected abuse attempts.

No one comes to pick up a child Parents sign a Contract for Care that designate specific hours of attendance. When a child is not picked up within contracted hours as outlined in the Contract for Care: Parents will be called immediately unless prior approval has been granted.

If parents cannot be reached staff will attempt to contact emergency contacts.

If parents or emergency contacts are unreachable staff must call Child Protection at (507) 3044222 or call 911, and request an officer to come and take the child.

The center closes at 5:00 p.m.

If children are picked up after 5:15 p.m. a $50.00 late fee will be applied per child.

After 5:30 p.m. an additional $100.00 will be applied.

The staff person in charge must fill out a Late Pick-Up form and the form must be signed by the parent when they arrive.

When parents are late, staff will begin calling their telephone numbers immediately.

If parents cannot be reached, staff will call the authorized persons to have them come and assume responsibility for the child.

If by 5:30 p.m. children have not been picked-up, staff must call Child Protection at (507) 3044222 or call 911, and request an officer to come and take the child.

After doing so, staff must inform the director of the situation.

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EMERGENCY/ACCIDENT POLICIES & RECORDS

Missing Child Procedure Knowing where children are at all times is expected. Lead teachers and support staff will be responsible for maintaining accurate head count of all children and know where they are in location of the classroom at all times.

1. If a child is missing, the person who identified the child as missing will immediately notify Cultivate Mankato’s Director. If the Director is not available or onsite, the Program Lead will assume authority. If both Director and Program Lead are unavailable or offsite, the Lead Teacher of the classroom will assume authority.

2. The Director or Program Lead will get initial information regarding the child (clothing, etc).

3. The Director or Program Lead will direct the Support Staff and Assistants to search for the child.

4. The Director or Program Lead and the Support Staff/Assistants will go in search of the child.

5. If the child is not found in 10 minutes, the Mankato Police Department will be notified by the Program Lead or Director. The Program Lead or Director will also notify the parent within 10 minutes of a child not found.

Emergency Medical Care Sources In the event of a medical emergency and 911 is called, a child would be transported to the nearest available hospital as determined by emergency responders. In the event emergency medical care is required, the Staff Person, Director, Teacher, or leadership team will call 911 from the closest available phone. Staff will remain on the phone with 911 as directed. The Director will report to DHS within 24 hours of the use of any emergency medical service by a child while in care.

The following are sources of emergency medical care: 911

Mankato Public Safety Center - (507) 387-8700

Annual Review of Accident, Injury and Incident Records

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Children’s Records

QUIZ SECTION 3

Children’s records will be filled out at enrollment and updated as needed with any changes of the information. Parents are responsible for keeping this information current. Children’s records will contain:

How to Access Child Files

The child’s full name, birth date, and current home address.

The name, address, and telephone number of the child’s parent/guardian.

Instructions on how the parent can be reached when the child is attending the center.

The names and telephone numbers of any persons authorized to take the child from the center.

The names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the child’s source of regular medical and dental care and the source of medical and dental care to be used in case of an emergency The names, addresses, and telephone numbers of two persons to be contacted if a parent cannot be reached in an emergency or when there is an injury requiring medical attention.

The health form and immunization information required Written authorization for the license holder to act in an emergency, or when a parent cannot be reached or is delayed The hours and days of the week the child will attend the center For children age six weeks to 36 months, a description of the child’s eating, sleeping, toileting, and communication habits, and effective methods for comforting the child Documentation of any individual child care program needs for the child The date of parent conferences and summary of the information provided to the parent at the conference

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EMERGENCY/ACCIDENT POLICIES & RECORDS

Recording of Accidents, Injuries, Incidents The following information will be recorded on an Accident and Injury Form in ProCare: The name and age of the child The date of the accident, incident or injury Place of the accident, incident, or injury To whom the accident, incident or injury was reported

Action taken by staff person Type of injury

The report forms will be reviewed with the parents the same day of the incident and the parent will acknowledge the incident. Parents will receive a copy of the form. The form will also be kept on file and logged in the Accident & Injury Log. If a serious injury or death occurs Cultivate Mankato is required to report the incident to DHS within 24 hours of being notified of the incident on the Serious Injury/Death Report. The report will be submitted electronically to DHS on the Child Care Serious Injury & Death Reporting form.

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ALLERGY PROTOCOL

Children Allergy Procedures

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QUIZ SECTION 4

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ALLERGY PROTOCOL

Allergy Prevention & Response The allergy prevention and response policies and procedures must be provided to parents of all children at the time of enrollment in the child care program and be made available upon request.

Cultivate Mankato will obtain documentation of any known allergy from a child’s parent or legal guardian or the child’s source of medical care prior to admitting the child for care. As part of the Child Intake Form, parents will be asked to disclose any known allergy.

If an allergy is known, Cultivate Mankato will develop an individual child care program plan to meet the child's individual needs. The individual child care program plan will be in writing and on file as the Allergy Action Plan. The following information will be included in the form and specify methods of implementation and is reviewed and followed by all staff who interact with the child.

Description of allergy Specific Triggers Avoidance Techniques Symptoms of an allergic reaction Procedures for responding to an allergic reaction including type of medication required, dosages and doctor’s contact information. If medication is required, a Medication Authorization Form will be on file.

All staff are required to review and sign the Allergy Action Plan.

If the child's allergy is a food allergy, information about the child and the allergy will be posted in the food preparation area and in the eating areas of the facility the child uses so it is a visual reminder to all those who interact with the child during the program day. We will also have each child’s food allergy in a binder in the First Aid backpacks that are taken on the playground or on off-site field trips.

Once a year, or following any changes made to allergy-related information, updates to the child’s record and Allergy Action Plan will be made. Each staff person who is responsible for carrying out the individual child care program plan will be made of the change and asked to sign that they’ve read and understood the updated plan. This review will be kept on file.

If a child has been exposed or an allergic reaction that requires medication or medical intervention occurs, parents will be contacted as soon as possible (but no later than 15 minutes within the incident) by a staff person. Each staff member will be trained in the use of Epi-pens at the beginning of each year. When epinephrine is administered to a child within the care of Cultivate Mankato, the director, teacher, or staff persons will call 911.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING How to Use Epipens

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QUIZ SECTION 4

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HANDLING & DISPOSAL OF BODILY FLUIDS

Handling/Disposal of Bodily Fluids Overview Many contagious diseases spread through blood and other body fluids, so it’s important to take precautions to prevent unnecessary exposure to them. The Exposure Control Plan (ECP) describes how to eliminate or minimize occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens and bodily fluids.

Cultivate Mankato is dedicated to providing a safe and healthy environment for the children and the staff. In this pursuit, we have created an Exposure Control Plan (ECP) that includes the following elements: Explanation of terms Determination of employee exposure Implementation of various methods of exposure control, including: Universal precautions Engineering and work practice controls Personal protective equipment Housekeeping Hepatitis B vaccination Post-exposure evaluation and follow-up Communication of hazards to employees and training Record keeping Procedures for evaluating circumstances surrounding exposure incident

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Program Administration

QUIZ SECTION 5

The director at Cultivate Mankato is responsible for the implementation of the ECP. The director will maintain, review, and update the ECP at least annually, and whenever necessary to include new or modified tasks and procedures.

Employees who are determined to have occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) must read, understand, and comply with the procedures and work practices outlined in this ECP. This will be documented on the Blood Borne Pathogen Acknowledgement Form.

The director will maintain and provide all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), engineering controls, and labels as required by the standard. The director will ensure that adequate PPE supplies are available in the appropriate sizes to meet the needs of all employees.

The director will be responsible for ensuring that all health-related actions required are performed and that appropriate employee health records are maintained. The director will be responsible for training, documentation of training, and making the written ECP available to all employees and parents.

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HANDLING & DISPOSAL OF BODILY FLUIDS

Explanation of Terms Blood: means human blood, human blood components, and products made from human blood.

Bloodborne Pathogens: means pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

Body Fluids that are Other Potentially Infectious Materials (OPIM): semen, vaginal secretions, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, pericardial fluid, amniotic fluid, saliva in dental procedures, body fluids that are visibly contaminated with blood, and all body fluids in situations where it is difficult or impossible to differentiate between body fluids.

Cleaning: is the physical removal of dirt and debris by scrubbing with soap and water.

Contaminated: means the presence or the reasonably anticipated presence of blood or other potentially infectious materials on an item or surface.

Contaminated Laundry: means laundry which has been soiled with blood or other potentially infectious materials.

Decontamination: means the use of physical or chemical means to remove, inactivate, or destroy bloodborne pathogens on a surface or item to the point where they are no longer capable of transmitting infectious particles and the surface or item is rendered safe for handling, use, or disposal.

Disinfection: is the elimination of germs that may be present, but can’t be seen.

Exposed: is an individual who has contact with the blood or other body fluids of another person.

Exposure Incident: a specific eye, mouth, other mucous membrane, non-intact skin, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that results from the performance of an employee’s duties.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING HBV: means Hepatitis B Virus HCV: means Hepatitis C Virus

QUIZ SECTION 5

HIV: means Human Immunodeficiency Virus Occupational Exposure: reasonably anticipated skin, eye, mucous membrane, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that may result from the performance of an employee’s duties.

Standard Precautions: The CDC recommends standard precautions regardless of a diagnosis or presumed infection status. Standard Precautions apply to blood, all body fluids, secretions, and excretions (except sweat), non-intact skin, mucous membranes and these are all regardless of if they contain visible blood or not. Standard precautions are designed to reduce the risk of transmission of microorganisms from both recognized and unrecognized sources of infection. Standard precautions include the use of hand washing, appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, gowns, masks, whenever touching or exposure to body fluids is anticipated, cleaning and disinfections of contaminated surfaces.

Universal Precautions: an approach to infection control to treat all human blood and certain human body fluids as if they were known to be infectious for HIV, HBV, and other bloodborne pathogens. Employees observe Universal Precautions to prevent contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials. Under circumstances in which differentiation between body fluid types is difficult or impossible, all body fluids shall be considered potentially infectious materials. Treat all blood and other potentially infectious materials with appropriate precautions such as the use of gloves, gowns, masks, or protective eyewear if blood or other potentially infectious materials exposure is anticipated. Use engineering and workplace controls to limit exposure. Per MN Statutes 245A. 41, Subd. 2, child care center license holders must ensure that each staff person is trained on universal precautions to reduce the risk of spreading infectious disease. A staff person’s completion of the training must be documented in the staff person’s personnel record.

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HANDLING & DISPOSAL OF BODILY FLUIDS

Employee Exposure Determination The following is a list of all job classifications at our child care center in which the employees may have occupational exposure: Director Program Lead Teachers Assistant Teachers Student Teachers Aides Volunteers The following is a list of job tasks or procedures in which employees at our establishment may have an occupational exposure: Administering First Aid Assisting a child with a bloody nose Handling body fluids that may contain blood Handling breast milk with open cuts/sores: the CDC does not advise that teachers/caregivers who have openings in their skin, such as cracked skin or hangnails, should prevent contact of the breast milk with their hands by covering with disposable gloves or waterproof bandages.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Methods of Compliance

QUIZ SECTION 5

Disposal Bags: blood contaminated material must be disposed of in a plastic bag with a secure tie.

Eye Protection: the program will have eye protection on site to be worn when handling potentially infectious body fluids such as blood and vomit.

Handwashing: handwashing is the single most important way to reduce the spread of germs and avoid getting sick. Handwashing procedures are posted at all handwashing sinks. Posted handwashing procedures will be adhered to. Staff will monitor and assist a child who needs help. Hands will be washed with soap and water for a minimum of twenty (20) seconds.

Gloves: gloves that are made of vinyl or nitrile are provided in each room and in all first aid kits. Gloves must be properly discarded in plastic lined trash containers and replaced if torn, punctured, contaminated, or otherwise damaged. Hands need to be washed immediately or as soon as feasible after removal of gloves. Gloves will be changed between individuals. Gloves will be provided to employees at no cost to them.

Gloves are worn when: Exposure to blood or bodily fluids is reasonably anticipated Handling or touching contaminated surfaces or items Changing diapers (not required, but recommended) Changing diapers when blood is anticipated Changing diapers when loose stools and/or diarrhea are anticipated Open cuts/sores are present on self or child Needles, Syringes, and other “sharps”: All licensed child care centers are required to have a sharps container. Sharp items used for a child with special care needs will be disposed of in a sharps container which will be stored out of reach of children.

Sharps disposal containers are easily accessible to staff and as close as feasible to the immediate area where sharps are used while still being inaccessible to children at all times. Contaminated sharps are discarded immediately in containers that are closable, puncture-resistant, leakproof on all sides and bottoms.

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HANDLING & DISPOSAL OF BODILY FLUIDS

Methods of Compliance Continued Resuscitation Mouthpiece: Single use resuscitation mouthpieces will be available for use in the first aid kits.

Cleaning and Decontamination of Spills: Surfaces that come into contact with potentially infectious bodily fluids including blood and vomit must be cleaned and disinfected according to MN Rules, part 9503.005, subpart 11.

Gloves are worn while cleaning and disinfecting.

Paper towels are used.

Objects and surfaces contaminated with blood and body fluids are cleaned immediately.

Cloudy, airtight spray bottles will be used. Spray bottles will be labeled with the contents and area they are intended for.

The steps for cleaning and disinfecting shall be followed: First, soap and water will be used to clean the surface Second, rinse the surface with plain water Third, use a bleach solution to disinfect. The bleach solution must air dry on the surface for at least two minutes.

Disposable paper towels and gloves will be thrown in a plastic lined trash container. If they are soiled with blood they will be thrown in a plastic bag, double bagged and tied closed in a knot and taken out to the trash.

Close attention will be made to the percentage of bleach that is used to ensure proper dilution is used.

All bleach solutions must be made daily as they lose potency over time.

Clothing Contamination: Clothing or other personal items which are soiled with blood or body fluids will be handled with gloved hands and put directly into a single use plastic bag, double bagged, and sent home for laundering.

Linens soiled with blood or body fluids is handled with gloved hands and put directly into a single use plastic bag, double bagged, and washed at or by a commercial laundry or sent with paramedics.

If bloody or body fluids has soiled the employee’s skin surface the area will be washed as soon as clothing is removed.

Aprons, smocks, or gowns should be worn if contamination of clothing is anticipated.

All clothing worn by staff or children that is contaminated with blood will be changed. Extra clothing will be kept on site and if extra clothing is not available, staff will be allowed enough time to go home and change their clothes.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING QUIZ SECTION 5

Methods of Compliance Continued

Hepatitis B Vaccine The Hepatitis B vaccination is offered to employees within ten days of employment or post exposure within 24 hours per OSHA. If an employees declines the Hepatitis B vaccination series, the employee must sign a declination form that will be kept on file. Employees who decline may request and obtain a vaccination at a later date. Documentation of refusal may be done on the Hepatitis B Vaccination Declination Form.

Post Exposure Procedure 1. Should an exposure incident occur, employees are to contact the director.

2. Cleanse the area of exposure to minimize the chance of infection. Wash wound and skin sites with soap and water. Eyes and mucous membrane exposure will be flushed with plain water for at least 15 minutes.

3. Complete the Accident and Injury Report for immediately (or at least prior to the end of the working day).

4. Complete the Employee Post Exposure Report Form.

5. Receive a medical evaluation due to exposure by a healthcare professional as needed.

Bloodborne Pathogen Information All employees covered by the bloodborne pathogens standard receive an explanation of the ECP during their initial job orientation training session. It is also reviewed at the center’s annual training refresher.

All employees have the opportunity to review this plan at any time during their work shifts by contacting the director.

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HEALTH POLICIES

Administering First Aid & CPR First aid is the immediate care provided to an injured or suddenly ill person, as soon as possible after an accident or sudden illness to preserve life, prevent the condition worsening and/or to promote recovery. While some first-aid situations will be minor (cuts, scrapes, bumps, bites, etc), we do need to prepare for more serious incidents. First aid does not take the place of professional medical treatment. Cultivate Mankato will ensure that at least one teacher or assistant teacher is present during the hours of operation who has satisfactorily completed pediatric First Aid training and infant and child CPR training. This includes while on field trips and when transporting children in care, when all teachers and assistant teachers are in their first 90 days of work.

In situations where First Aid is required, the first staff person certified on site that is certified in First Aid will deliver First Aid. The second staff person will remain with the other children. If additional help is needed, the director or additional staff person will be called. All accidents and injuries will be documented detailing the First Aid procedures used and will be kept on file at the center using the Accident and Injury Form and the Accident and Injury Log. Where the administration of first aid is required, only certified first aid and CPR staff will administer first aid.

1. Assess the situation; 2. If necessary, and where possible, move others from any immediate danger or away from the incident 3. Administer First Aid; 4. If necessary, call 9-11 and answer any questions to the best of your ability.

5. Notify the Director; 6. Notify the parents and record all attempts at notifying 7. If First Aid is required (even for a minor incident such as a scrape, bug bite, etc.), staff must complete an Accident and Injury Form. a. Accident and Injury Forms are located in each of the classrooms. The staff member must give an accurate description of what happened, and what he or she did via First Aid (washed with warm soapy water, ice pack, etc.). b. Give the child hugs and sympathy as they are important parts of treatment as well and can be noted. c. Staff should make sure the date, time, and place of accident are reported. d. Parents will get a copy of the report the same day. e. If an incident involves another child, it is important to not identify that child by name. It is confidential.

Cultivate Mankato will ensure an adequate number of first aid kits are readily available at the center to meet the needs of the number of children present. First aid kits will be inaccessible to children (or locked) while remaining readily accessible to staff. First aid kits will be checked regularly to ensure they are fully stocked and contain no expired products.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING QUIZ SECTION 6

First Aid Kit The First Aid kits will have at least the following items: 1. First Aid Quick Guide Manual 2. Sterile Bandages 3. Band-Aids in assorted sizes 4. Sterile Compresses 5. Scissors 6. Ice Bag or Cold Pack 7. Adhesive Tape 8. Thermometer

Other Required Items located in each classroom: Gloves Protective Eyewear Plastic Bags Sharps Container CPR Barrier Flashlight Battery Operated Radio

Each classroom will be equipped with a First Aid Kit and First Aid Manual. Each classroom will also have one First Aid backpack that should be carried with on field trips and while outside during outside play.

First Aid Kits and First Aid backpacks will be checked on a weekly basis by the lead teacher in each room and stocked according to the First Aid Checklist.

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HEALTH POLICIES

Accident Prevention & Safety Cultivate Mankato’s classrooms, playground, and common areas are arranged to be safe for children, staff, and parents. We’ve put in place safety rules to follow in order to avoid injuries, burns, suffocation, pedestrian accidents, poisoning, choking, and traffic accidents. All infants and children are within sight and sound of staff persons at all times. The following rules are in place to ensure accidents are avoided to the best of our ability:

Injury Prevention

Outside doors and windows used for ventilation are screened to protect from insects.

Rugs will have non-skid backing or be firmly fastened to the floor.

Solid step stools (washable) are used for children to access the sinks.

Children will wear closed toe shoes while outside.

Safety gates are in place where needed to protect children from hazards.

Spills will be wiped up immediately.

Doors will have slow closing devices or door guards to prevent fingers from pinching.

Children are supervised in the bathroom and the bathroom door is kept closed when not in use.

Scissors (excluding age-appropriate scissors used under supervision), knives, and sharp objects will be kept out of reach of children.

Staff purses and bags are stored inaccessible to children.

Fans are inaccessible to children.

All electrical outlets are equipped with safety plugs.

Wading pools are not allowed.

Children will not be allowed to climb on furnishings other than designated climbers.

Children do not carry bottles, sippy cups, or disposable cups with them while crawling or walking.

All water play is carefully supervised at all times.

Infant walkers will not be used.

Safety buckles on high chairs and infant seats and equipment will be in place and used when children are using the equipment.

All staff persons and volunteers assisting in the care of infants receive training on reducing the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID). This training will be at least one-half hour in length and will be completed at least once every year. At a minimum, the training will address the factors related to SUID, means of reducing the risk of SUID, and license holder communication with parents reducing the risk of SUID. All staff persons and volunteers assisting in the care of children under school age will have Abusive Head Trauma Training (AHT) before they care for infants and children under school age and then annually. The training will address the risk of abusive head trauma from shaking infants and young children. AHT training will be at least one-half hour in length and, at a minimum will address, the risk factors related to shaking infants and young children, the means to reduce the risk of AHT in child care, and license holder communication with parents regarding reducing the risk of AHT.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Burn Prevention

QUIZ SECTION 6

Water temperature will not be set to exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit. No water in the center may be any warmer than 120 degrees Fahrenheit maximum.

Hazardous and potentially toxic substances will be locked and kept out of the reach of children.

The kitchen is inaccessible to children.

Microwaves are not used by children.

Microwaves will not be used to warm infant food or bottles.

The center is smoke free and smoking is not allowed on the premises.

Staff will check outdoor play equipment and make sure that it’s not too hot just prior to children using.

All electrical outlets are equipped with safety plugs.

Electrical cords will be out of the reach of children.

Staff will not have or drink hot liquids around children. This includes covered mugs.

Food will be allowed to cool before serving to children. Food will be served warm, not hot.

Overexposure to the sun is prevented by the use of protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen. Sunscreen will be used and requires written permission from parents/legal guardians. Aerosols are not used at the center. Sunscreen is applied by staff wearing gloves and gloves are changed between each child to prevent cross contamination.

Suffocation Prevention

Infants and toddlers do not have bottles while in a crib or bed and do not eat from propped bottles at anytime.

Infants may only have a tight fitting sheet inside the crib.

All plastic bags/material will be kept out of reach of children unless children are directly supervised by an adult and the plastic bags/material is used for a learning activity.

Traffic and Pedestrian Accidents Prevention

The playground is fenced in.

Children will only cross the street with a parent or with a staff person(s) present.

A staff person will be at the front of the line with another staff person at the end of the line.

Children will be counted when leaving, returning and several times in between.

Traffic area and sidewalks are designated as high priority for snow and ice removal.

Staircases and elevators will be inaccessible to children unless an adult is present.

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HEALTH POLICIES

Accident Prevention & Safety Continued Field Trip Prevention

Written parental permission will be obtained from each child’s parent before taking a field trip either off site or on walking field trips (including any time we leave the facility for nonemergency and recreational activities). Parents will be informed of the hours, mode of transportation (including walking), and the purpose and destination of the field trip. Staff will take a First Aid backpack (including a First Aid manual), two-way radio, and child emergency cards on all field trips.

Poisoning Prevention

The Poison Control Center phone number is listed as an emergency number by all center phones and in every classroom.

All hazardous and poisonous substances are inaccessible to children.

All hazardous and poisonous substances are stored in their original container with the label intact.

All hazardous and poisonous substances are stored away from food.

Lead paint will not be used on walls, equipment, or toys.

Aerosol sprays will not be used in the center.

Pills cannot be kept loosely in a pocket, purse, or bag while on Cultivate Property and all medications must be in their original bottle and out of the reach of children. If a staff member is found to be carrying any form of loose medicine, it will be grounds for termination and will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

Choking Prevention

Infants and toddlers do not have bottles while in a crib or bed and do not eat from propped bottles at anytime.

Infants and children sit while eating and are closely supervised.

Staff will be trained in keeping size of toys age appropriate.

Staff will prohibit children from putting small objects in the mouth.

Staff cut foods into pieces no larger than 1/4-inch square for infants and 1/2-inch square for toddlers, or less according to each child's chewing and swallowing capability.

Infants and children will be given age-appropriate food.

Plastic bags are stored out of reach of children.

Latex balloons will not be used at the center at anytime. Mylar balloons may be used outside of center hours for birthday parties or events.

All infants are held for bottle-feeding, as we believe that is the most safe and nurturing for the infants.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Daily Inspection of Potential Hazards

QUIZ SECTION 6

Upon arrival, each classrooms’ opening staff will conduct a daily inspection of potential hazards within their designated classrooms.

The Daily Inspection Checklist will be completed and initialed by the staff conducting the inspection. It will then be picked up by the Program Lead and scanned to a file.

Prior to children playing on the playground a staff member will conduct similar inspections to the outdoor area.

The Director inspects the facility periodically for potential hazards and corrections.

Twice a year the Accident and Injury Log is evaluated for hazardous areas.

Outdoor Activity Area/Playground Safety

A daily inspection is completed to observe for potential hazards of the entire outdoor activity area.

An annual maintenance check is done at the beginning of each Spring on outdoor equipment to assess the need for repair.

Staff will check equipment to make sure it’s not too hot just prior to children using.

The playground is free of litter, rubbish, toxic materials, water hazards, machinery, animal waste, and sewage contaminants.

Any broken equipment or equipment in need of repair is removed and either disposed of or not used until it has been repaired and in safe working condition.

Children will only play on equipment appropriate for their age and size and be taught how to correctly and safely use playground equipment.

Staff will position themselves so that they may see all children on all areas of the playground. Staff are expected to join the children in play while maintaining sight of all children.

The playground is enclosed inside a fence.

Play equipment is installed over proper material with recommended fill depth and fall zones.

Preschoolers ages 3+ only

Preschoolers ages 5+ only Applies only to the top of the slide

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Diapering The diapering procedures and practices have been developed in consultation with our health consultant and have been approved by our health consultant.

The diapering procedures are posted in each diapering area and are followed.

Diapers are only changed in the diaper changing areas.

Gloves are worn at diaper changes and disposed of after every diaper change.

The diaper changing area is separate from areas used for food storage, food preparation and eating.

At least one changing table for every group of 8 infants and at least one changing table for every group of 14 toddlers is present in the program.

The diapering areas have hand sinks equipped with hot and cold running water within three feet of the diaper changing surface, a smooth nonabsorbent diaper changing surface and floor coverings, and a sanitary container for soiled and wet diapers.

Disposable, individual diaper table paper or paper towels will be available for each diaper change.

Disposable diapers for infants will be provided by the center unless otherwise brought in by families. Parents will need to provide diapers for toddlers that will be used by the center.

Upon parents’ requests, cloth diapers can be used as long as provided by the parent. Cloth diapers will be changed the same as disposable diapers, but will be placed and sealed in a wet bag provided by the parents. Wet bags must be taken home each night and a fresh one brought back each day. If we do not have a wet bag onsite, we will not be able to use cloth diapers that day. We will not clean cloth diapers. These instructions will be posted in all areas where cloth diapers are used.

One hand will be kept on the child at all time while diapering and staff will never step away from the diapering table.

Center provided wipes will be used at every diaper change unless otherwise provided by parents.

Diapering ointments and creams will be labeled with the childs’ first and last name and only used for that child whose name is written on the label. These must be stored out of the reach of children.

Diapering ointments and creams will not be accessible to children.

Products to control or prevent diaper rash, commercial wipes, diaper ointments and creams are stored according to the manufacturer’s directions, in the original container and in a child’s individual compartment.

Parents are to supply creams and ointments and will need to provide written authorization for use of the non-prescription diapering product.

Diapering powders will not be used due to inhalation risks.

Toys, pacifiers, bibs and other items will not be allowed onto the diapering table with the child due to contamination risk.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING QUIZ SECTION 6

Toileting Toilet learning occurs when the child shows readiness for using the toilet and the child’s family is ready to support the child’s involvement in doing so.

Children who are toilet learning are offered frequent opportunities to use the toilet.

Children who are toilet learning and are wearing pull ups will only be changed in the bathroom. The procedures for Changing Diapers/Pull-ups as Standing Procedure will be posted in the bathroom.

Toilet training chairs will only be located in bathrooms and will be emptied into the toilet, washed with soap and water, rinsed and disinfected after each use.

Bathrooms are cleaned at least daily. Toilet seats are washed with soap and water and disinfected when soiled at least daily.

Toilet paper, liquid hand soap, facial tissues, and single use paper towels are provided and accessible to children.

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Sanitation Procedures & Practices (food not prepared by or provided by the center)

Sanitation procedures and practices for food not prepared by or provided by the center.

If the food is prepared off site or if food service is provided according to a contract with a food service provider, the program will ensure that food is prepared in compliance with chapter 4626.

We will provide refrigeration for dairy products and other perishable foods, whether supplied by the program or supplied by the parent. The refrigeration must have a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or less. A thermometer will be in every refrigerator and a daily log will be kept for all refrigerators.

Cultivate Mankato has partnered with River Rock Co. to provide catering services and a copy of their current license is on file and posted at the program.

A monthly menu will be provided to the program by the catering company. The menu will be posted in prominent places and parents will have access to the menu.

Our program will ensure that meals and supplemental snacks are available and that each meal will provide ⅓ of the child’s daily nutritional needs as specified by the USDA. Food Related Policies & Procedures Procedures for preparing, handling, and serving food, and washing food, utensils, and equipment will comply with the requirements for food and beverage establishments in chapter 4626.

Our program will ensure that meals and supplemental snacks are available.

Each meal will provide one-third of the child’s daily nutritional needs as specified by the USDA. Meals and snacks will comply with the nutritional requirements of the United States Department of Agriculture, Food, and Nutrition Service, Code of Federal Regulations, title 7, section 226.20.

Our program will provide or ensure the availability of: A snack for a child in attendance for more than two hours, but fewer than five hours.

One meal and two snacks or two meals and one snack for a child in attendance five to ten hours unless four or more of these hours are spent in sleep.

Minimum of two meals and two snacks for a child in attendance more than ten hours unless four or more of these hours are spent in sleep.

Children and staff will wash their hands before handling food or eating.

Staff will be seated with children during meal and snack times.

Menus will be posted in a conspicuous place and available to parents.

The center will comply with a child’s dietary needs prescribed by a child’s source of medical care or that require the parent to provide the prescribed diet items that are not part of the menu plan. This diet plan must be kept in the child’s record and reviewed by each staff member.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Whole milk is served for ages 12 months to two years of age.

QUIZ SECTION 6 Milk served is unflavored and low-fat (1%) or non-fat (skim) for children ages 2 years through 5 years.

If fruit or vegetable juice is served, it will be full-strength, 100% juice and will be limited to once per day and no more than four ounces per child.

Drinking water will be available to children throughout the hours of operation and offered at frequent intervals. Drinking water for children will be provided in single service drinking cups or children may bring in a water bottle from home that is labeled with the child’s first and last name. Water bottles will be left at the center and washed daily.

Any food brought from home in the form of a birthday treat or snack will be commercially prepared.

Staff lunches and all staff food will be stored in a separate refrigerator than refrigerated food that will be consumed by children at the program.

Procedures Hand Washing

Handwashing procedures are posted at all handwashing sinks. Posted handwashing procedures will be adhered to. Staff will monitor and assist a child who needs help.

Hands will be washed with soap and water for a minimum of twenty (20) seconds.

Children’s hands are washed with soap and water at a minimum: After a diaper change After the use of a toilet or toilet training chair Before and after eating a meal or snack After coughing, sneezing, blowing nose Before and after using a water sensory table or playdough After playing outdoors After feeding or touching pets or other animals/bugs Any time hands look or smell dirty Staff will wash their hands with soap and water at a minimum: Upon arrival to the program and when moving from one child care group to another After changing a child’s diaper or helping a child in the bathroom After using toilet facilities Before and after handling food or eating Before and after preparing and giving medication After coughing, sneezing, blowing nose, wiping noses, mouths, sores, or cuts Before and after administering First Aid After handling bodily fluids After handling a sick child After feeding or touching pets or other animals/bugs After touching garbage Any time hands look or smell dirty Before going home

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Maintaining Hot and Cold Food Temperatures at Safe Levels

When the catering company transports hot food to the center, they will ensure that the temperature of the food is maintained at 135 degrees Fahrenheit.

If the food is brought at meal time, the staff will check the temperature of the food before serving the food to ensure it has been maintained at 135 degrees Fahrenheit or above. If food is below 135 degrees Fahrenheit it is discarded and an alternative meal must be served.

Food is cooled to 110 degrees Fahrenheit before distributing to the children so the food will not cause burn.

When the catering company transports food that needs to be kept cold, cold food will be maintained at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or below. The food will be placed in the refrigerator once it arrives at the center.

When parents provide bag lunches to the center, the bag lunch will be labeled with the child’s first and last name. The bag lunch will be placed in the refrigerator kept at 41 degrees Fahrenheit upon arrival at the center. If parents bring in any form of birthday or celebration snack or treat, it will need to be commercially prepared and kept warmed or cooled appropriately.

Washing of food, utensils, and equipment

Food will be prepared on surfaces that have been washed and sanitized before use. All food that is prepared in the food service area is away from diapering areas.

Any food that needs to be washed will be done in a clean, food preparation sink. Raw fruits and vegetables shall be thoroughly washed in water to remove soil and other contaminants before being cut, combined with other ingredients, cooked, served, or offered for human consumption.

Any utensils and equipment that need washing will run through a NSF dishwasher.

Serving food

Staff will be free from illness when serving and/or preparing food. Staff will have washed their hands and put on food service gloves when directly touching and serving foods. A food employee experiencing persistent sneezing, coughing, or a runny nose that causes discharges from the eyes, nose, or mouth shall not work with food, clean equipment, utensils, and linens, or unwrapped single-service or single-use articles.

All food will be prepared in the food service area, away from diapering areas. Tables and high chair trays will be washed with soap and water and sanitized before and after each use. All floors in the meal service areas will be promptly swept and spot cleaned with soapy water mixture and sanitizer after use.

The director is required to record all reports of diarrhea or vomiting in employees that prepare and serve food and have these records available to the licensing health department upon request. The director is also required to notify the local health department or MDH if any employees that prepare and serve food are known to be infected with Salmonella, Shigella, E. Coli, Hepatitis A Virus, or other pathogen that can be transmitted through food. The Minnesota Foodborne Illness Hotline should be posted: 1-877-FOOD-ILL (1-877-366-3455) .

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Sanitation Procedures & Practices

QUIZ SECTION 6

(to prepare, handle, and store food for infants)

Preparation of formula, Milk, Breast Milk, Solid Foods & Supplements Our program will ensure that sanitary procedures and practices are used to prepare, handle, and store formula, milk, breast milk, solid foods, and supplements. Procedures must be reviewed and certified by our health consultant.

Bottles prepared at home must be transported in an insulated bag with an ice pack and placed immediately in the refrigerator upon arrival to the center.

All bottles are labeled with the infant’s first and last name.

Each child will have their own tray in the refrigerator, labeled with their first and last name, where bottles are placed. All refrigerators must have a thermometer in them and must be maintained at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. A temperature log of the infant refrigerator will be kept.

BPA free bottles are recommended. Glass bottles are not allowed.

If formula bottles are made at home by the parents, the center will have a backup supply of formula for unforeseen circumstances.

When bottles are made at the center the formula will come in a factory sealed container and be prepared according to instructions on the product label.

No solids will be fed by bottle. No foods are mixed with formula or breast milk in the bottle unless the child’s health care provider provides written documentation of a medical need for this practice.

Staff will wash their hands prior to infant food and/or formula/breast milk preparation.

The counter will be washed and sanitized prior to use.

Bottles and infant foods can be served cold from the refrigerator and do not have to be warmed. If parents request bottles to be warmed, we will: Warm under running tap water or put in a container of water no warmer than 120 degrees Fahrenheit for no more than 5 minutes. Cups used for warming should be emptied, cleaned, and sanitized daily.

Warm using a cordless Kindle Kozii Bottle warmer. Staff shall use the instructions on this warmer.

Infant foods, formula, milk and breast milk will never be warmed in a microwave.

Staff will not hold an infant while removing a bottle or infant food from the container of warm water or while preparing a bottle or stirring infant food that has been warmed.

Infant foods should be stirred carefully to distribute warmth evenly.

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The temperature of bottles will be tested before feeding to the infant by swirling the bottle and then placing the bottle on the Milkchecker temperature pad and wait for the light to turn green. Do not offer an infant a “hot” bottle. (According to the American Academy of Pediatrics in Caring for Our Children, the risk of transmission of infection to caregivers who are feeding expressed human milk is very low. Wearing of gloves to feed expressed human milk is unnecessary, but caregivers with open cuts on their hands should avoid getting expressed human milk on their hands, especially if they have any open skin or sores on their hands.)

When preparing the child’s bottle, ensure the labeling on the bottle match’s the child’s profile on ProCare. Create a new “Name to Face” activity in ProCare and write in the description box “bottle check - Name of Child.”

Before feeding the child, staff will double check the name on the bottle to the baby’s face before feeding.

After the child has been fed, indicate how many ounces were finished on the child’s profile in ProCare.

Any breast milk left in a bottle for 2 hours from which the feeding began is discarded.

Any formula left in a bottle for 1 hour from which the feeding began is discarded.

Unused, prepared bottles of formula will either be sent home at the end of the day or discarded within 24 hours of refrigeration.

Freshly expressed or pumped breast milk may stay in the refrigerator at the center for up to 4 days. At the end of that period, staff will send the leftover milk home with the parent.

Thawed or previously frozen breast milk may stay in the refrigerator at the center for up to 24 hours. At the end of that period, staff will send the leftover milk home with the parent.

After breast milk or formula have been discarded, remove the nipple from the bottle, rinse it with warm water under the sink and place it in the child’s mesh bag hanging on the wall next to the sink and place the child’s bottle in the sink to be ran through the dishwasher. All nipples will be rinsed with warm water and then each child’s mesh bag will be ran through the dishwasher.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Infant Feeding

QUIZ SECTION 6

The diet of an infant must be determined by the infant’s parents. This information must be available in the infants’ classroom.

Our center will obtain written dietary instructions from the parent of the child.

Our center will have the infant’s feeding schedule available in the food preparation area.

Our center will offer the child formula or milk and nutritionally adequate solid foods in prescribed quantities at specified time intervals.

Our center will label each child’s bottle with the child’s first and last name.

Infants will be held while bottle feeding. Bottles will never be propped.

Infants will never be put in their crib with a bottle.

Mobile infants will not be allowed to walk around with a bottle.

Solid food is started when developmentally appropriate as determined by the infant’s parent. Infants will be fed food while sitting up in a high chair.

Baby food brought from home will be labeled with the child’s first and last name.

Baby food will be served with a spoon from a bowl and not directly from the baby food container or pouch. The opened container of baby food may be dated and put back in the refrigerator, used the same day and then disposed of or provided back to the parents at the end of the day.

Parents will be informed as to how much their child has consumed each day.

Solid Foods for Infants A plan to introduce age-appropriate solid foods to infants will be made in consultation with the child’s parent/guardian. Age-appropriate solid foods may be introduced no-sooner than when the child has reached the age of six months and as indicated by the individual child’s nutritional and developmental needs and the child’s parent/guardian. For breastfed infants, gradual introduction of iron-fortified foods may occur at six-months, in consultation with the child’s parent/guardian to complement breast milk. Modification of basic food patterns will be provided in writing by the child’s primary care provider. First solid foods will be single ingredient foods and will be introduced one at a time at two-to seven day intervals at the infants’ home first. Parents will inform staff once their infant has tried a new food in the form of writing. When an infant is able to hold his/her head steady, open his/her mouth, lean forward in anticipation of food offered, close the lips around a spoon, and transfer from front of the tongue to the back and swallow, he/she is ready to eat semi-solid foods. Communication will be kept with the child’s parent/guardian around the introduction of solid foods.

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Solid foods are always fed from a spoon. Solid foods in the form of commercially prepared baby food provided by parents/guardians or by the facility should come in a factory-sealed container. Food brought by the parents that has been made at home will be labeled with the infant’s first and last name and dated. Commercially prepared infant food will be stored on a shelf in a cabinet in the infant classroom. For perishable infant foods, these will be labeled with the infant’s first and last name, dated, and stored in the infant classroom refrigerator, in a bin labeled with the infant’s first and last name. A thermometer will be kept in this refrigerator and maintained at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Any food or bottles left in the refrigerator at the end of the day, will be sent home with the infants’ parent/guardian.

Before opening infant food, the date will be checked on the container to check for expiration.

Staff hands will be washed with soap and water prior to handling infant food. Infant food will be poured into a bowl and fed from the bowl rather than the original container. Any food remaining in the baby food container will be covered, dated, and placed back in the refrigerator and used the same day or disposed of or sent home with the parent/guardian.

The infant food preparation area of the classroom will be separate from eating, play, laundry, and diapering areas. Infant food preparation areas will have a specified counter area separate from areas the infants use for activities unrelated to food. The facility will check with local health authorities about any additional regulations that apply and will adhere to these regulations. The infant counter will be washed with soap and water, rinsed and sanitized before handling or preparation of infant foods. Only staff free of illness will handle food. Food Service gloves will be worn when directly touching infant food such as crackers.

In consultation with the infant’s parent/guardian, infants will eventually start table food/finger food and food from the school menu. School menu food will be brought covered from the kitchen to the infant room and allowed to cool prior to being served. Microwaves will not be used to warm infant food. Any infant food not eaten within one hour will be disposed of.

Plates, dishes and utensils will be used and food will not be placed directly on the infant trays.

If staff who handle food must change diapers, a thorough hand washing with a nail brush will be done in between the two activities. This will be avoided when possible. Parents providing food for their child will be requested to prepare and cut up food at home so that staff have minimal contact with the food.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Breast Milk for Infants

QUIZ SECTION 6

Breastmilk Handling Breastfeeding is highly encouraged and should be supported by every staff member. As a center, we hope to support breastfeeding mothers by having a nursing room that can be used during the hours of operation.

Although human milk is a fluid, it is not necessary to wear gloves when feeding or handling human milk, unless an employee has open sores or cracked skin or unless there is visible blood in the milk. The CDC does advise that teachers/caregivers who have openings in their skin, such as cracked skin or hangnails, cover their hands with disposable gloves or waterproof bandages to prevent those susceptible areas from having direct contact with breast milk.

Breast milk is not included in the list of other potentially infectious materials, therefore contact with breast milk does not constitute an “occupational exposure.”

Preparing and Storing Breastmilk Parents should transport breast milk to the childcare center in a cooler bag with ice or ice packs.

Non-frozen breast milk should be transported in containers used to feed the infant.

The bottles are stored in the refrigerator upon arrival to the facility. The refrigerator will have a thermometer in it and be maintained at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.

Frozen breast milk can be stored in single-use plastic breast milk storage bags and placed in the freezer. Bags must be labeled with the child’s first and last name and date the milk was expressed.

Bottled expressed breast milk is stored in a container inside the refrigerator or freezer labeled with the child’s first and last name.

Each bottle will be clearly labeled with the child’s first and last name and the date the milk was expressed.

Only clean and sanitized bottles and nipples are used for feeding.

Fresh and frozen breast milk are never mixed.

Families are encouraged to bring breast milk in volumes appropriate for a single feeding, and, in addition, in some small quantities that can be used if the baby seems to want more after finishing the usual amount.

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Safe Handling, Preparing, Warming, and Feeding Breast Milk

These guidelines are provided for safe handling and storage techniques to maintain the high quality of expressed breast milk for the health of the infant. For basic Storage Locations and Temperatures of breast milk, we will use the recommendations provided by the CDC in the following chart:

Chart Adapted from “ABM Clinical Protocol #8: Human Milk Storage Information for Home Use for Full-Term Infants,” Revised 2017.

Use the oldest dated milk first.

Breast milk in the child care setting, when refrigerated after expression, should be used within 96 hours (4 days).

Breast milk that was frozen and has been thawed will not be re-frozen and must be used within 48 hours.

Thaw frozen breast milk in the refrigerator or under warm running water.

Thawed breast milk will not be re-frozen.

Breast milk that has been in a freezer, referring to a freezer at the top, bottom, or side of a refrigerator with a separate door, at 0 degrees Fahrenheit may be used up to 6 months. At the end of the 6 month period, staff will send the leftover milk home with the parent.

A microwave is never used to warm or thaw bottles of expressed breast milk.

Excessive heat can also destroy the nutrient quality of breast milk and the bottle could explode when exposed to excess heat.

Each child’s identity will be confirmed before feeding to prevent potential exposure to another mother’s breast milk. This check will be done for every bottle.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING QUIZ SECTION 6

Accidental Feeding of Breast Milk to the Wrong Infant No infant is fed the expressed breast milk of another infant’s mother. If breast milk is accidentally fed to the wrong infant, the potential exposure to Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV, or other infectious diseases, should be treated the same way as an exposure to any other body fluid. Staff shall: 1. Inform the parent of the child who was given the wrong bottle that their child was given another child’s bottle of expressed breast milk. The risk of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV transmission is believed to be low. The parent/guardian should contact their health care provider to discuss the exposure and any tests that may need to be done.

2. Inform the mother who expressed the breast milk that her breast milk was fed to the wrong baby. She should also contact her own health care provider to discuss.

3. Report to DHS. Feeding the wrong bottle to the wrong infant is a failure to follow written dietary instructions from the infant’s parent and failure to ensure appropriate procedures and practices were used to handle breast milk.

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Child Health Records Children’s health records will be kept confidential and not be released to anyone without written parent permission unless otherwise required by law.

Child care providers must ensure that all children have received certain vaccinations or have filed appropriate exemptions as allowed by Minnesota Law (MN Statutes, section 121A.15).

Immunization Records Children’s health records will be kept confidential and not be released to anyone without written permission from parents unless otherwise required by law.

Children are required to have all immunizations required by state law as appropriate for the child’s age OR the parent/guardian provides a medical or conscientious exemption that has been signed by the child’s physician or legally notarized. Each child will need to have a completed Child Care Immunization Form or Exemption form on file before the first date of attendance at the center. Children without this one of these files cannot be admitted into the program.

Health Care Summary Per Department of Human Services regulations, Cultivate Mankato is required to have on file a record of a recent health examination signed by the child’s source of medical care. A Health Care Summary form must be completed by the child’s Health Care Provider and returned to us within 30 days of enrollment. Every item on the form needs to be completed.

An updated Health Care Summary signed by the child’s Health Care Provider is required annually for children under 24 months of age, and whenever a child 24 months of age or older advances to an older age category.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Exclusion of Sick Children

QUIZ SECTION 6

Cultivate Mankato is not licensed to provide care for sick children. We understand that it can be an inconvenience for parents and encourage parents/guardians to have a backup source of care for a child in case of illness.

For the health of other children in our care, we will exclude children from the larger group when they present the following conditions: A reportable communicable illness or other contagious disease which has not had sufficient treatment to reduce the health risk to other children Chicken Pox (Varicella) Vomited (defined as two or more time since arrival at the center) Infant Program: two or more times since arrival at the center Toddler/Preschool Program: one or more times since arrival at the center Diarrhea (defined as three or more abnormally loose stools since arrival at the center) Contagious Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) or pus draining from the eye Bacterial Infection such as “Strep Throat” or Impetigo which has not had 24 hours of antibiotic therapy Unexplained lethargy (unusually inactive or listless) or paleness Untreated lice, scabies or ringworm Signs of abdominal pain or headache Temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit axillary (taken on the forehead or higher prior to fever reducing medication being administered.

Signs of significant respiratory distress An undiagnosed rash or rash which is caused by a communicable disease Requires more care than the program staff can provide without risking the health and safety of other children In some cases, the center Director may need to speak with the child’s Health Care Provider to better understand the child’s illness and how it affects her/his ability to be in the center.

We ask if this becomes the case that parents/guardians provide written permission to do this.

If a child has been hospitalized or requires special care per under the direction of a physician, we may ask for a written permission form from the child’s Health Care Provider before the child may return to the center.

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Children Who Become Sick at the Center If a child becomes ill at the center, the parent/guardian will be notified immediately. We will ask that the parent/guardian or someone on the Authorized Pick Up list pick up the child within 1 hour so that she/he can get the proper care and attention at home. Until the parent/guardian or another person authorized to pick up the child arrives, we will provide the child with a cot and blanket and continue to offer the child water every 15 minutes. Being sick is often a scary experience for children, and we will do our best to ensure the child feels loved, nurtured, and safe while in our care. While the child will be separated from the group, the teacher and/or staff will always be able to see and hear the child.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING QUIZ SECTION 6

Medications

Medications can be crucial to the health and wellness of children. When possible, parents and Health Care Providers should try to minimize the need for medications while in child care; however, this is inevitable in some situations. In these situations, parents must fill out a separate Medication Authorization Form for each prescription or non-prescription medication to be administered by Cultivate Mankato to your child.

Any medication container having a detached, illegible, or damaged label shall be returned to the parent for a new label from the issuing pharmacy. Unused portions of the medication will be returned to the parent. Medicines with expiration dates will not be used after the date of expiration. Medicines will always be stored in a secure area, out of the reach of children. These requirements are for both non-prescription and prescription medications.

Anytime a non-prescription or prescription medication is given to a child, staff will document on the child’s Medication Administration Record. This record will be kept in the child’s file and made available to the parent/guardian. The Medication Administration Record will include: Name of the child Name of the medication Date Time Dosage Name and signature of the person who dispensed the medicine

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Non-Prescription Medications Non-prescription medications must be administered according to the manufacturer’s directions listed on the bottle unless there are written instructions for their use provided by a licensed physician or dentist.

Non-prescription diapering products, sunscreen lotions, insect repellants, and essential oils are required to have written permission from the parent/guardian before administration.

Aerosols are not permitted at the center due to inhalation risks.

Prescription Medications A prescription medication can be administered only if it has a current pharmacy label issued to the child with the prescribed dosage, time to be administered, and current date. All medication must be in its original container. The following items are necessary for the center to administer prescription medications: Parent Permission in writing on the Medication Authorization Form Health Care Provider’s permission and direction in writing The medication must be in a labeled pharmacy bottle and state the following: Prescription Number Name of the medication Strength and quantity Expiration date Directions for use Dosage Child’s name Health Care Provider’s name Date of issue Name and address of licensed pharmacy issuing medication, or if a prescribed overthe-counter product is required, it must be in the original labeled container and accompanied by a physician statement.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING QUIZ SECTION 6

Pets

Pets are permitted in the center. Cultivate Mankato will notify the parents of pets at the time of enrollment or should a new pet be purchased. All pets are contained, separated from food prep areas or areas where meals are served, and used for viewing and observing by enrolled children.

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DHS REQUIRED VIDEOS QUIZ SECTION 7

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RISK REDUCTION QUIZ SECTION 8

Child care centers must develop a risk reduction plan that identifies the general risks to children served by the child care center. The license holder must establish specific policies and procedures or refer to existing policies and procedures that minimize identified risks, train staff on the procedures, and annually review the procedures. [Minnesota Statutes, section 245A.66, subdivision 2]. See attached the Risk Reduction Plan.

Risk Reduction Plan for Main Street

Risk Reduction Plan for Infant Development Center

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PROGRAM DRUG & ALCOHOL POLICY

9

QUIZ SECTION 9

Cultivate Mankato’s policy is to inform license holders, employees, subcontractors, and volunteers, when responsible for children served by the program, from abusing prescription medication or being in any manner under the influence of a chemical that impairs the individual’s ability to provide services or care. We train our employees, subcontractors, and volunteers at orientation and then annually on our drug and alcohol policy and require signed documentation that the training has occurred. This documentation will be in each person’s personnel record.

The age, defenselessness, and dependence upon the judgement of caregivers/teachers of the children under our care make the prohibition of the use of tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs, prescribed medication that impairs awareness, and toxic substances an absolute requirement for the safety and well-being of children.

Because safe child care necessitate alert and unimpaired caregivers/teachers, the use of alcohol, illegal drugs and substances any time in proximity of child care is prohibited, including times when children are transported, when playing in outdoor play areas not attached the facility, and during field trips. Off-site use prior to or during work hours, of alcohol, illegal drugs, over the counter (OTC) medications or prescriptions that have not been prescribed for the user, is prohibited.

Adults under the influence of alcohol and other drugs cannot take care of young children and keep them safe. Alcohol and illegal drug use and misuse of prescription or OTC drugs prevent caregivers/teachers from providing appropriate supervision and care.

Due to safety hazards of smoking and health risks to children of second-hand and third-hand smoke exposure, smoking any time in proximity of child care areas or the child care facilities grounds is prohibited. This includes times when children are transported, when playing in outdoor play areas not attached to the facility, and during field trips. Additionally, employees that show up to work smelling of smoke, will be asked to go home. If they choose to shower and change clothes, they may come back and continue their shift.

Pills cannot be kept loosely in a pocket, purse, or bag while on Cultivate Property and all medications must be in their original bottle and out of the reach of children.

If a staff member is found to be carrying any form of loose medicine, it will be grounds for termination and will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

Any employee, subcontractor, or volunteer in violation of this policy will be asked to immediately leave the center and will be terminated from employment.

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PROGRAM ADMINISTRATIVE RECORDS 10

QUIZ SECTION 10

The following Program Administrative Records are on file and can be reviewed by a DHS Licensor anytime upon request: 1. record of the information given to parents 2. personnel records 3. children's records 4. child care program plan 5. accident, injury, emergency, and incident records 6. staff distribution schedule 7. separation reports 8. report by the health consultant Additionally, the following forms can be found in the Policies and Procedures Manual: 1. Monthly Crib Inspection Form 2. Daily Report for Infants and Toddlers 3. Sample Medication Authorization Form 4. Sample Field Trip Form 5. Fire/Tornado Drill Logs 6. Unqualified Substitute Record 7. Experienced Aide Report 8. Mandated Reporting/Maltreatment of Minors Internal Review 9. Risk Reduction Plan

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CHILD CARE PROGRAM PLAN

Main Street Location Ages Served, Hours of Operation Cultivate Mankato provides child care for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years. Care is available Monday through Friday, 7:30am - 5:00pm.

Center Contact Information Address: 227 E. Main Street, Mankato, MN 56001 Phone Number: (507) 330-7700 Email Address: info@cultivatemankato.com Website: www.cultivatemankato.com

Program Plan for Main Street

Center Licensed Capacity Cultivate Mankato is licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services with a maximum enrollment per age group as follows: Infants (6 weeks - 16 months) - Licensed Capacity is 40 Toddler (16 months - 33 months) - Licensed Capacity is 56 Preschool (33 months - 5 years) - Licensed Capacity is 53

Adult to Child Ratios (per MN Rule 3, 9503.0040) Infants 1:4, max group size 8 Toddlers 1:7, max group size 14 Preschoolers 1:10, max group size 20

Center Philosophy Cultivate Mankato is based on socio-cultural and constructivist theories. Through the constructivist approach, Cultivate Mankato encourages self-directed discovery, hands-on learning and experiential learning derived from previous experiences. We are relationship driven and strive to develop connections with children that are meaningful, reflective, and inquiry based. We believe children are entitled to receive loving and nurturing care in a safe and stimulating environment. We are committed to ensuring children’s health and safety, helping children establish trust in their environment, strengthening their self-identity and broaden their understanding of individuals different from themselves.

Program Plan This Child Care Program Plan is available for parents upon request and will be developed and evaluated in writing annually by a staff person qualified as a teacher under Minnesota Rule 9503.0032 Page 68

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Infant Development Center

QUIZ SECTION 11

Ages Served, Hours of Operation Cultivate Mankato provides child care for children ages 6 weeks through 16 months. Care is available Monday through Friday, 7:30am - 5:00pm.

Center Contact Information Address: 222 Pfau Street, Mankato, MN 56001 Phone Number: (507) Email Address: info@cultivatemankato.com Website: www.cultivatemankato.com

Program Plan for Infant Development Center

Center Licensed Capacity Cultivate Mankato is licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services with a maximum enrollment per age group as follows: Infants (6 weeks - 16 months) - Licensed Capacity is ??

Adult to Child Ratios (per MN Rule 3, 9503.0040) Infants 1:4, max group size 8

Center Philosophy Cultivate Mankato is based on socio-cultural and constructivist theories. Through the constructivist approach, Cultivate Mankato encourages self-directed discovery, hands-on learning and experiential learning derived from previous experiences. We are relationship driven and strive to develop connections with children that are meaningful, reflective, and inquiry based. We believe children are entitled to receive loving and nurturing care in a safe and stimulating environment. We are committed to ensuring children’s health and safety, helping children establish trust in their environment, strengthening their self-identity and broaden their understanding of individuals different from themselves.

Program Plan This Child Care Program Plan is available for parents upon request and will be developed and evaluated in writing annually by a staff person qualified as a teacher under Minnesota Rule 9503.0032

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CHILD CARE PROGRAM PLAN

Anti-Bias Awareness We strive to create classrooms that are free of bias as it related to race, creed, gender, culture, age, family type, socio-economic class, abilities, etc. Our goal is to help children recognize the uniqueness of each individual and the diversity of our society. Our approach to accomplishing this is to provide opportunity for conversation and interaction around various materials (books, puzzles, pictures).

Supervision of Children All children enrolled at Cultivate Mankato are supervised at all times of the day. While we will always plan to exceed the minimum ratios for state licensing requirements, teachers will ensure that the appropriate staff-to-child ratios are always maintained.

The teaching staff ensure the daily implementation of this written Child Care Program Plan through planned, age appropriate interactions with the children in their classrooms and on the playground. During the interactions, staff stay in smaller groups with the children, providing both teacher directed and child initiated activities, so that they can be more responsive, reciprocal, and respectful of the children’s developmental needs.

Since health and safety of each child enrolled at the center is our primary concern and responsibility, careful and consistent supervision of children is mandated at all times throughout the facility. Cultivate Mankato requires that all children are within sight and sound of the teaching staff at all times.

Goals and Objectives Our overall goal is to provide children with loving care in a safe environment with an educational experience. Specifically, our goals are to give infants, toddlers, and preschoolers the opportunity to: Develop a healthy self-concept; Develop both socially and emotionally; Develop enjoyment of the creative experience; Develop trust in adults and peers; Develop independence and responsibility for self; Develop security and a feeling of success; Develop skills in the physical, cognitive and language areas.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Description of Specific Activities

QUIZ SECTION 11

Infant Program Children in the infant program follow individualized schedules which are planned cooperatively by the parents and the teaching staff. Each schedule is modified as the child’s development and parents’ desires dictate. The staff’s primary goal is to help infants develop a sense of trust and attachment in relationships with their caregivers, and in their new environment.

The staff to child ratio is 1:4, with a max of 8 infants per infant room. We believe that in order for infants to develop trust, their needs should be responded to quickly, and with sensitivity and respect for their temperament and for their home routines. Infants communicate their needs and feelings through body language, vocalizations, crying, and gestures. It is our job to learn to “read” what they are telling us and be responsive to their communication with us.

It is also important to provide age-appropriate learning opportunities in all areas of development and during routine activities (such as diaper changes). The infant curriculum is guided by The Creative Curriculum, for Infants, Toddlers & Two’s. This curriculum is a comprehensive curriculum which includes goals and objectives for a child’s learning in all areas of development: social/emotional, physical, cognitive, and language. These 4 developmental goals are carried out through caregiving, the environment, and activities in the infant program. Nurturing, responsive, and respectful caregiving are major components of the program. These components build the foundation of trust that children need to be successful throughout life. The environment reflects diversity, inclusiveness, love, and calmness. Activities provided on a daily basis, such as music time, sensory activities, reading books, and outdoor experiences, are appropriate to the developmental stage of the infants.

While we have created a general schedule for infants below, please note that diapers and bottles are done throughout the day based on each child’s needs and parents’ requests.

Please note that diapers will be changed at least every two hours from the time of the last change. Parents will receive real-time daily notifications as well as an emailed report at the end of the day that describes your child’s day.

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Infant Daily Schedule 7:30 – 9:00 Playtime & welcome, breakfast/bottles 9:00 – 9:30 Diaper changes 9:30 – 10:30 Morning activity & playtime 10:30 – 10:50 Morning snack/bottles 10:50 – 11:30 Morning naps as needed, indoor large muscle play 11:00 – 11:30 Diaper vhanges 11:30 – 12:30 Lunch/nottles 12:30 – 1:00 Diaper vhanges 1:00 – 2:40 Afternoon naps/playtime/diaper changes 2:40 – 3:00 Afternoon snack 3:00 – 3:30 Diaper changes 3:30 – 5:00 Afternoon activity & playtime, departures

Specific Activities for Infants may include but are not limited to: Toy grasping Stroller rides Peek-a-boo Cooing/mimicking Animal sounds Textures (soft, fuzzy, rough, scratchy) Who’s in the mirror (ME!) Rolling over

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Crawling Walking Pushing blocks Itsy Bitsy Spider 5 Little Monkeys Clapping Where is your ....? (identifying body parts) Sign Language

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Toddler Program

QUIZ SECTION 11

As your child enters the Toddler program, he or she is trying to become independent while still somewhat unsure of their new role. This is the age where a lot of changes occur as your child becomes a little person. It is a fun but sometimes difficult time in a child’s life.

Our toddler program is familiar with the unique needs of each toddler and their family. Each week, the toddlers will focus on one new idea for the entire week. There will be activities that promote social/emotional, cognitive, language and physical development appropriate to the age of your child and cultural background. Some activities would be but not limited to playing with toys from their cultural background, learning key words in multiple languages, and having events and day themes to many cultures throughout the world. Play will take place both indoors and outdoors, so please remember to bring appropriate outdoor clothing. Parents will receive real-time daily notifications as well as an emailed report at the end of the day that describes your child’s day.

The main objective in our toddler program is to help children identify their roles in the huge world they have entered. We focus on creating authentic connections with toddlers by engaging in play and asking questions. We will focus on community building and manners (please, thank you, sharing, passing) as well as eating from a plate with a spoon or fork, drinking from a cup without a lid, sitting at a table on a chair, washing their hands, recognizing their name, colors, and shapes. We will also work with the children on being able to zip their coats and pants, and know how to use scissors. We encourage each child to be potty trained and/or in the process by the time they move to the Preschool room.

While this is not a requirement, it is something we’d like to support.

Toddler activities include but not limited to:

Quiet Time: Story time, reading books, nap time, putting together puzzles, mirror time, dramatic play and manipulatives.

Active Play: Listening to music, dancing, rolling and catching balls, outside play including running, walking, marching, bean bag throwing, large muscle play.

Teacher Directed Play: Identifying colors and shapes, cleaning up, picking up toys, puppet shows, finger puppets, painting, singing songs, dancing, saying letters, sign language, learning the alphabet.

Child Initiated Play: Imaginative play & pretend, outdoor play, reading, free choice play

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CHILD CARE PROGRAM PLAN

Toddler Daily Schedule 7:30 - 8:30 Free choice play/quiet time & waking up (sensory tables, dramatic play, manipulative equipment, music) 8:30 – 9:00 Breakfast 9:00 – 9:30 Circle time 9:30 - 9:45 Bathroom 9:45 – 10:30 Outside (large muscle play) 10:30 – 10:45 Bathroom 10:45 - 11:15 Teacher lead activity 11:15 - 11:30 Bathroom 11:30 – Noon Lunch Noon – 2:15 Bathroom/nap/rest/quiet activities 2:15 - 2:30 Bathroom 2:30 – 3:00 Snack 3:00 – 5:00 Afternoon Activity/playtime (indoor and outdoor large muscle play), departures

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Preschool Program

QUIZ SECTION 11

Cultivate Mankato’s Preschool Program is designed with activities to challenge young minds to engage with the community through play-based, experiential learning. In our preschool program, your child will learn and have hands-on experience with science, art, music, games, puzzles, books, language and more. Children in the preschool program will take field trips around the community and have special activities year round. Your child will work on age-appropriate and stimulating projects in a loving, respectful, safe, and understanding environment.

Each week, there is a weekly idea that is discussed through intentional circle time activities, but also during authentic moments of play or connection. Our hope is that children in the preschool age begin to draw connections about what they are learning and their everyday lives. Most topics are related to things your child will use in their everyday life such as feelings, sharing, kindness, and more. Your child will also learn about the world around them and how they fit into the world.

Preparing children for Kindergarten and having the skills needed to be successful in school is focused on while in the preschool program. However, your child will be encouraged to learn at his/her own pace.

One of our objectives is to help children develop and practice manners, wash their hands, recognize their name, know their colors and shapes, days of the week, months of the year, letters and numbers. We will teach children how to put on their coats, shoes, snow pants, boots, hat, and mittens. Some other objectives include, learning not to talk to strangers and other important lifelong skills. We go on many field trips to enrich your child about the world around them. If a child is not potty trained when they enter the preschool program, that’s no problem! Our dedicated staff will work with the parents on the best way to implement toilet training plans.

We will also have activities designed to promote the intellectual, physical, emotional development of a child in a manner consistent with the child’s cultural background. Some activities would be but not limited to playing with toys from their cultural background, learning key words in multiple languages, and having events and day themes to many cultures throughout the world.

Preschool activities include but not limited to: Inspecting bugs Cutting & gluing Growing plants Collages Nature walks Painting Colored water experiments Cleaning up Animal day Free choice play Petting Zoo visits Pretend play Coloring (markers & crayons) Outdoor play Reading Imaginative play Page 74

Learning about community Taking field trips Writing name Learning letters, numbers, alphabet Singing Dancing

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CHILD CARE PROGRAM PLAN

Preschool Daily Schedule 7:30 - 8:00 Free play/quiet time & waking up (sensory tables, dramatic play, manipulative equipment, music) 8:00 - 8:30 Welcome from the teacher/circle time 8:30 - 9:00 Breakfast/bathroom 9:00 - 9:45 Outside (large muscle play) 9:45 – 10:00 Bathroom 10:00 - 11:15 Teacher lead activity/free play (sensory tables, dramatic play, manipulative equipment, music) 11:15 – 11:30 Bathroom 11:30 – Noon Lunch Noon – 2:00 Bathroom/nap/rest/quiet activities 2:00 – 2:30 Snack 2:30 - 2:45 Bathroom 2:45 – 4:30 Afternoon activity & playtime (indoor and outdoor large muscle play) 4:30 - 5:00 Bathroom, inside free play (sensory tables, dramatic play, manipulative equipment, music), departures

Conferences

A parent may request a conference to meet with the Director at any time that is mutually convenient to discuss their child’s overall development. Staff may also request a meeting with a parent or legal guardian. We hold parent/teacher conference twice annually, usually one in April and one in October. Throughout the course of the year, lead teachers will be assessing each child’s development by observing play, interactions with other children, conversations with teachers and children, and through more formal, one-on-one assessments. At each conference, an assessment of your child’s intellectual, physical, social and emotional development will be made available to the parent/legal guardian and will also be kept on file in your child’s record. We will use The Creative Curriculum Gold assessment as the method to achieve authentic, ongoing, observation-based assessment of each child.

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NAP & REST POLICY QUIZ SECTION 12

The parent/guardian of each child will be informed of the center’s nap and rest policy at the time of enrollment. Young children sleep and rest best at routinely scheduled times. The nap and rest policy is consistent with the developmental level of the children enrolled at the center. At the time of enrollment, Cultivate Mankato’s Director will inform the parent(s) of each child of the center’s policy on naps and rest.

Nap and Rest for Preschoolers and Toddlers

Nap time is a scheduled part of the daily schedule for toddlers and preschoolers. All preschoolers and toddlers are required to lie on a cot to rest or sleep for at least thirty (30) minutes. The environment is darkened, and restful music is played. Staff sit or lie next to children, rub their backs and comfort them to help them fall asleep. Staff will not awake children before they are ready to wake up on their own. Staff will raise the blinds and turn on the lights mid-afternoon.

When children are up, staff attend to cots as directed by the lead teacher.

Confinement Limitation for Preschoolers and Toddlers

Preschoolers and toddlers must rest for at least 30 minutes. A child who has napped or rested quietly for 30 minutes will NOT be required to remain on the cot. Quiet activities are set up at tables until other children get up.

Placement of Equipment for Preschoolers and Toddlers

In the Preschool and Toddler rooms the cots are spread out throughout the rooms while keeping clear aisles for safety. Unimpeded access for both adults and children is maintained on at least one side of the cot. All cots are placed directly on the floor and are not stacked when in use.

Bedding for Preschoolers and Toddlers Separate sheets for each child is provided for each child in care. Bedding is washed weekly and when soiled or wet. Blankets that are brought from home are kept at the center and are washed or dry cleaned weekly and when soiled or wet. The toddler and preschool rooms have individual cots which are disinfected after each use.

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NAP & REST POLICY (note: more specific infant sleep details in the infant packet)

Nap and Rest for Infants

Infants are each provided with a crib and bedding and sleep according to their individual schedules. Multiple naps per day will wean to two naps per day and then wean to one nap per day by the time the infant transitions to the toddler room.

Sleep sacks may be used in the crib. Sleep sacks need to be the correct size on the infant to ensure proper fit and the center must have written approval from a parent/legal guardian on file.

A crib must be provided for each infant for which the center is licensed to provide care.

Cribs must be of safe and sturdy construction that conforms to federal crib standards under Code of Federal Regulations, title 16, part 1219 for full-size baby cribs, or part 1220 for non-full size baby cribs.

Our program will do monthly crib inspection and must be documented on DHS form Monthly Crib Safety Inspection Form for Child Care Centers. On this same form, we will also document an annual certification of the crib by going online to www.cpsc.gov.

We will place each infant in a crib on a firm mattress with a fitted sheet that is appropriate to the mattress size that fits tightly on the mattress, and overlaps the underside of the mattress so it cannot be dislodged by pulling on the corner of the sheet with reasonable effort.

We will place each infant to sleep on the infant’s back, unless the license holder has documentation from the infant’s Health Care Provider directing an alternative sleeping position for the infant. The Health Care Provider directive will be on DHS form Physician Directive for Alternative Infant Sleep Position form and will remain on file at our location.

We will not place anything in the crib with the infant except for the infant’s pacifier. No attachments to the pacifier such as strings, clips, or stuffed toy attachments will be allowed.

An infant who independently rolls onto his/her’s abdomen after being placed to sleep on his/her back may be allowed to remain sleeping on its abdomen if the infant is at least six months of age or the license holder has a signed statement from the parent on the Infant Rolling over Parent Statement for Infant Less Than Six Months Old Form indicating that the infant regularly rolls over at home.

If an infant falls asleep before being placed in a crib, we will move the infant to a crib as soon as practicable, and will keep the infant within sight until the infant is placed in a crib.

When an infant falls asleep while being held, we will consider the supervision needs of other children in care when determining how long to hold the infant before placing the infant in a crib to sleep. The sleeping infant will not be in a position where the airway may be blocked or with anything covering the infant’s face.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING QUIZ SECTION 12 Placing a swaddled infant down to sleep in a licensed setting is not recommended for an infant of any age and is prohibited for any infant who has begun to roll over independently. However, with the written consent of a parent or guardian we may place the infant who has not yet begun to roll over on his/her own down to sleep in a one-piece sleeper equipped with an attached system that fastens securely only across the upper torso, with no constriction of the hips and legs, to create a swaddle. Prior to any use of swaddling for sleep, we will obtain informed written consent for the use of swaddling from the parent or guardian of the infant on DHS form Parental Consent for Swaddling an Infant prepared in partnership with the Minnesota Sudden Infant Death Center.

Cribs are arranged within a partially partitioned sleeping room that is within sight and hearing of the infant. The staff will do frequent, visual checks of the infants.

Cribs are not placed by any exposed heating units.

Cribs are not placed near drapery cords.

Cribs used for fire evacuation will be clearly labeled.

Bib and hair bands are removed from infants before placing them in a crib.

Confinement Limitation for Infants

Infants will nap on their own schedule. At no time will an infant be required to stay in a crib if he/she is not sleeping.

Placement of Equipment for Infants

Cribs are placed to maintain clear aisles for safety and access to all infants. Unimpeded access for both adults and children is maintained on at least one side of the crib.

Bedding for Infants

Separate fitted sheets specific for the crib size are provided for each infant. Bedding is washed weekly and when soiled or wet.

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MALTREATMENT OF MINORS MANDATED REPORTING POLICY FOR DHS LICENSED PROGRAMS

Reporting Who Should Report Child Abuse and Neglect Any person may voluntarily report abuse of neglect.

If you work with children in a licensed facility, you are legally required or mandated to report and cannot shift the responsibility of reporting to your supervisor or to anyone else at your licensed facility. If you know or have reason to believe a child is being or has been neglected or physically or sexually abused within the preceding three years you must immediately (within 24 hours) make a report to an outside agency.

Where to Report If you know or suspect that a child is in immediate danger, call 911.

All reports concerning suspected abuse or neglect of children occurring in a licensed facility should be made to the Department of Human Services, Licensing Division’s Maltreatment Intake line at (651) 431-6600.

Reports regarding incidents of suspected abuse or neglect of children occurring within a family or in a community should be made to the local county social services agency at (507) 304-4319 or local law enforcement at (507) 387-8700 or dial 911.

If your report does not involve possible abuse or neglect, but does involve possible violations of Minnesota Statutes or Rules that govern the facility, you should call the Department of Human Services, Licensing Division at (651) 431-6500.

What to Report Definitions of maltreatment are contained in the Reporting of Maltreatment of Minors Act (Minnesota Statutes, section 626.556) and are attached to this policy. See definitions on pages 53-58).

A report to any of the above agencies should contain enough information to identify the child involved, any persons responsible for the abuse or neglect (if known), and the nature and extent of the maltreatment and/or possible licensing violations. For reports concerning suspected abuse or neglect occurring within a licensed facility, the report should include any actions taken by the facility in response to the incident.

An oral report of suspected abuse or neglect made to one of the above agencies by a mandated reporter must be followed by a written report to the same agency within 72 hours, exclusive of weekends and holidays.

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Retaliation Prohibited

QUIZ SECTION 13

An employer of any mandated reporter shall not retaliate against the mandated reporter for reports made in good faith or against a child with respect to whom the report is made. The Reporting of Maltreatment of Minors Act contains specific provisions regarding civil actions that can be initiated by mandated reporters who believe that retaliation has occurred.

Internal Review

When the facility has reason to know that an internal or external report of alleged or suspected maltreatment has been made, the facility must complete an internal review within 30 days and take corrective action, if necessary, to protect the health and safety of children in care. The internal review must include and evaluation of whether: Related policies and procedures were followed; The policies and procedures were adequate; There is a need for additional staff training; The reported event is similar to past events with the children or the services involved; and There is a need for corrective action by the license holder to protect the health and safety of children in care.

Primary and Secondary Person or Position to Ensure Internal Reviews are Completed

The internal review will be completed by the Director. If this individual is involved in the alleged or suspected maltreatment, the Program Lead will be responsible for completing the internal review.

Documentation of the Internal Review

The facility must document completion of the internal review and make internal reviews accessible to the commissioner immediately upon the commissioner’s request.

Corrective Action Plan

Based on the results of the internal review, the license holder must develop, document, and implement a corrective action plan designed to correct current lapses and prevent future lapses in performance by individuals or the license holder, if any.

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MALTREATMENT OF MINORS MANDATED REPORTING POLICY FOR DHS LICENSED PROGRAMS

Staff Training

The license holder must provide training to all staff related to the mandated reporting responsibilities as specified in the Reporting of Maltreatment of Minors Act (Minnesota Statutes, section 626.556). The license holder must document the provision of this training in individual personnel records, monitor implementation by staff, and ensure the policy is readily available to staff, as specified under Minnesota Statutes, section 245A.04, subdivision 14.

The mandated reporting policy must be provided to parents of all children at the time of enrollment in the child care program and must be made available upon request.

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CLASSROOM POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Active Supervision

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QUIZ SECTION 14

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CLASSROOM POLICIES & PROCEDURES

When a Child Runs

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ALL STAFF TRAINING ProCare Guidelines

QUIZ SECTION 14

Please Note: When entering Activity and the picture of the post, it must be entered under the “learning tab”. This way when we are reviewing ProCare for accountability of this task, we can filter it to just see those. You can only enter one photo at a time into “learning”.

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CLASSROOM POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Visual Rings

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Parent Communication

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CLASSROOM POLICIES & PROCEDURES What is a Study?

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Reporting Accidents & Injuries

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QUIZ SECTION 14

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CLASSROOM POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Pyramid Model

Pyramid Model Overview Practical Strategies for Teaching Social Emotional Skills Where Do I Start? Responding to Challenging Behavior through Responsive Relationships Responding to Behavior: High Quality Supportive Environments Make a Difference Why Isn't It Getting Better Yet? Behavior Intervention using Targeted Social Emotional Supports When It's Still Not Enough: Intensive Behavior Intervention

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Community Room Staff Expectations

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CLASSROOM POLICIES & PROCEDURES Room Binders

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ALL STAFF TRAINING Room Devices

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