Discovery Day Camp - Parent Handbook - 3Yrs

Family Handbook 3 Year Old Program

June 2016

Letter to Parents………………………………………………………………………………………………….....1 Mission Statement…………………………………………………………………………………………………..2 Vision Statement……………………………………………………………………………………………………2 TMS Discovery Day Camp Program Statement……...………………………………………………………2 Our School’s Origins………………………………………………………………………………………………..5 The TMS Ideals……………………………………………………………………………………………….………6 School Governance……………………………………………………………………………………………….6 Services Offered and the Age Categories Served……….………………………………………………….7 3 Year Old Program (Purple Group)…………………………………………….………………………………………………………………….7 Program Hours………….………………….………………………………………………………………………..7 Extended Care Program………………………………………………………...………………………………..7 Holidays and School Closures…………………………………………………………………………..…….…8 TERMS OF ADMISSION for Toddler and Children’s House…………………………………………………..8 Terms of Payment………………………………………………………………………………………………….8 The Home-School Partnership and Two Way Communication…………………………………………..9 Communicating with Faculty and Staff……………………………………………………….………………9 TMS Traffic Safety Policy…………………………………….……………………………………………………10 Drop-Off and Pick-Up Procedures Bayview Campus……………...………………………………………10 Parking-Bayview Campus……………………………………………….………………………………………11 Transportation………………………………………………..……………………………………………………11 No Smoking Policy………………………………………………………………...………………………………11 Lateness and Absences…………………………………………………………………………………………11 Unavoidable Lateness and Absences…………………………………………………..………….12 Leaving School Early……………………………………………………………………………………12 Illness…………………………………………………………………………………….…………………12 Communicable Diseases……………………………………………………………………….……………….13

Student Medication……………………………………………………………………………….……………..13 Medical Forms…………………………………………………………………………………………..…………13 Allergies………………………………………………………………………………………………….………….13 Life Threatening Allergy Alert………………………………………………………………………….13 Nut Safe School………………………………………………………………………………………….14 EpiPens…………………………………………………………………………………….………………14 Accidents at School……………………………………………………………………………….……………..14 Fire Drills and Lockdown…………………………………………………………………………………………14 Visitors…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………14 Lunches………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……15 Culture Celebrations/ Birthdays………………………………………………………….…………………….15 Dress Code and Student Uniforms…………………………………………………………………………….15 Recess and Outdoor Activities…………………………………………………………………………………15 Inclement Weather and Outdoor Activities…………………………………………………………..……..15 Lost and Found………………………………………………………………………………………..…………..16 TMS Code of Conduct………………………………………………………………………………….………..16 TMS Ideals………………………………………………………………………………………..………..16 Standards of Behaviour……………………………………………………………………...…………16 Respect, Civility, and Responsible Citizenship……………………………………………..………16 Biting and Injurious Behaviours in Toddler and Children’s House……………………………..…………17 Serious Occurrences Reporting………………………………………………………………………………..18 Optimism and TMS………………………………………………………………………………………….…….18

Dear TMS School Parent, We are committed to ongoing improvement and are working in all areas to move towards the attainment of our Mission a quest for self-discovery with endless opportunities for exploration in a world of creativity, culture and socialization. Discovery Day Camp strives to creates a sense of wonder and joy through activities that have meaning and purpose and will contribute to the development of your child’s character, who in turn will make a positive contribution to our global community.. In our work with you as a partner we recognize that we are preparing your child for a complex, competitive and ever-changing world.

This handbook is one way in which we work to keep you informed and assist you to fully and effectively participate in all aspects of your child’s experience. It provides a considerable amount of information that will assist you to team with us to make your child’s journey through TMS Discovery Day Camp the best it can be. It is also intended to make it easier for you and your family to be informed and involved in Camp life at TMS. We encourage you to communicate and to work closely with your child’s classroom instructors to stay abreast of what is happening in the program daily and each week.

Finally, if you have questions we are always more than happy to hear from you by phone (Bayview Campus 905 889 6882 and Elgin Mills Campus 905 780 1002), e-mail (camp@tmsschool.ca) or in person. We are keen and well-prepared to work closely with you to ensure your child is inspired, challenged and supported to discover and go beyond.

Sincerely,

Blaine Seamone Camp Director Discovery Day Camp

Mission Statement Discovery Day Camp offers your child a hero’s journey - a quest for self-discovery with endless opportunities for exploration in a world of creativity, culture and socialization. Discovery Day Camp creates a sense of wonder and joy through activities that have meaning and purpose and will contribute to the development of your child’s character, who in turn will make a positive contribution to our global community.

TMS: Discovery Day Camp Program Statement In keeping with TMS School’s philosophy, Discovery Day Camp offers programming consistent with Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years as described in How Does Learning Happen? We support Ontario’s commitment to strengthening the quality of early years programs and the statement that “children are competent, capable of complex thinking, curious and rich in potential” (p.6). At TMS, we recognize that the first six years of a child’s life are the most formative as the child’s physical, mental and emotional development begin and form strong connections. In fact, Discovery Day Camp’s mission is to provide the child with the opportunity for self-discovery through exploration in a world of creativity, culture and socialization. Discovery Day Camp creates a sense of wonder and joy through activities that have meaning and purpose, fostering engagement and promoting expression. Further, the cooperative environment supports belonging and well-being and sense of community.

The Program Statement and Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years, How Does Learning Happen? will be reviewed annually with all faculty, staff and volunteers in the 3 year old program (Purple Group) prior to interacting with children. If an amendment is made to either of these documents, faculty, staff and volunteers will be notified immediately and an additional review will be required. Reviewing these documents will enable us to echo a shared understanding of the needs of young children.

The goals that guide the program at TMS Discovery Day Camp include, but are not limited to, the following: • To promote the health, safety, nutrition and well-being of the children. At Discovery Day Camp we work diligently to meet all of the requirements of Ontario Regulation 137/15. At Discovery Day Camp classrooms are spacious and are in keeping with all health and safety regulations. The needs of the young child during the exceedingly important formative period of development are met in an environment that provides the routine, order and encouragement necessary to be happy and thrive. Each student explores in a calm and inviting environment that is prepared to meet the cognitive, physical, social and emotional needs of 3 year old children.

The outdoor environments provide spacious and safe areas for the children to develop their gross motor skills, including swimming and outdoor play. The daily schedule provides a secure routine. The children receive nutritious meals and snacks daily from an outside registered source. Children are provided with rest

opportunities on appropriately designed cots. Station activities for play and inquiry offer experiences that support learning and interaction with their world.

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We support positive and responsive interactions among the children, parents, faculty and staff. The Parent/Child/Staff relationship is paramount in ensuring that children thrive and develop positively. We recognize “the unique and diverse characteristics of the children’s families and the communities in which they live.” (p. 18) At Discovery Day Camp, we encourage learning from peers. We continue to foster the Montessori concept of grace and courtesy and expect all members of the camp community to be polite and courteous to others. Adults should always be positive role models for the students in our camp. These expectations are communicated in staff training and our Staff Handbooks.

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We encourage the children to interact and communicate in a positive way and support their ability to self-regulate. Discovery Day Camp follows the TMS Ideals which are: Respect yourself and others through graceful and courteous conduct; Strive for your best in all areas: academics, arts, athletics and citizenship; and Make Good Choices that have positive effects and productive outcomes. At Discovery Day Camp we “foster communication and expression in all forms” (p.

13). Developing relationships with adults and children outside of his/her own family, assists the child in developing social skills, independence and self-expression. Our children’s communities are based on a foundation of trust and respect where there is an atmosphere of positive self-guided discipline. To facilitate this we incorporate the “Stop” program in which counselors lead the children through the process of: stop; talk; options; and plan.

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We foster the children’s exploration, play and inquiry by having stimulating centres and activities and well equipped outdoor engaging environments. The activities provide the children with opportunities to increase their independence; foster physical activity – fine and large; enhance their senses; motivate curiosity; and build knowledge of the world in which we live through the cultural arts and crafts materials. The Discovery Day Camp curriculum is creative and hands-on.

We “provide environments and experiences to engage children in active, creative and meaningful exploration, play and inquiry” (p. 13).

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We provide child-initiated and adult-supported experiences. The camp counsellor is an advocate for the child. Our staff is composed primarily of trained teachers and university students. Practicing artists and other professionals will also be on site to lead some of our specialized workshops. Our staff undergoes an extensive training program that kicks off with our pre-camp meetings and continues all summer long. Trained lifeguards and swim instructors supervise our Red Cross instructional swimming program and recreational swims.

Our exceptional counsellors make every effort to fulfill each child’s natural desire to learn and are sensitive to the individual needs of the child. Children receive individual and small group lessons from their teachers to introduce them to concepts that are appropriate to their age and stage. Our staff uses their “knowledge, gained through observing and discussing with others, and their

professional judgment to create contexts to support children’s learning, development, health and well-being” (p. 19).

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We plan for and create positive learning environments and experiences in which each child’s learning and development will be supported. The Discovery Day Camp develops learning environments, both indoor and outdoor, that invite children to imagine, investigate, create, and solve problems. Through open-ended and enticing materials, children are provided opportunities to explore and experience in meaningful ways. The day is scheduled and reviewed to allow for three blocks of uninterrupted play. The spaces, indoor and outdoor, are designed for young children and have furniture and equipment that are proportional to the children’s physical size and needs. The camp is a child-centered community, designed to facilitate maximum independent learning and exploration by the child.

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We incorporate indoor and outdoor play, as well as active play, rest and quiet time, into the day and give consideration to the individual needs of the children.

Our schedules provide campers the opportunity for activities indoor and out, rest and quiet time. Young children are in the sensitive period for movement and our environments encourage movement while completing many of the tasks.

Children are afforded the opportunity to choose their own activities and balance their days with active and quiet play. The development of coordination, balance and strength are important components to our programs. Swimming and the outdoor playgrounds invite children to explore and learn while developing control of their bodies.

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We foster the engagement of and ongoing communication with parents about the program and their children. At TMS generally and Discovery Day Camp specifically, communication with parents is essential. “Fostering good relationships with children and their families” is a priority at TMS and essential for a successful program (p. 24). At drop-off and pick-up parents have the opportunity to speak with the counsellors. When required, the Camp Director will communicate through telephone conversations and emails. We invite parents and their children to attend the annual Open House prior to the summer. This affords caregivers and their children to meet the counsellors and ask questions about what to expect. In addition, new campers and their families receive a phone call prior to attending their camping session. Parents are welcome to make an appointment in order to observe their child and witness their camping experience. It is imperative that each staff member has a connection with their students and their families. “A significant body of research indicates that positive, caring and respectful relationships are the foundation for optimal learning, development, health and well-being.” (p. 24)

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We involve local community partners and allow those partners to support the children, their families and staff. Discovery Day Camp is open to all members of the Richmond Hill community and not limited to the TMS School children and their families. It is a chance to part of the local community and make connections.

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We support our staff and others who interact with the children in relation to continuous professional learning. Camp begins for our staff well before the children attend. During this time preparations occur for the summer, including set up and training to ensure Ontario Regulation 137/15. Observation and evaluation of staff is done at least every three weeks over the summer, with feedback provided.

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We document and review the impact of the strategies set out in clauses (a) to (j) on the children and their families”. We are continuously assessing our program and ensuring that we are following Ontario Camps Association guidelines and the strategies from Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years through observations, reflections, and feedback from our Program Advisor.

The foundational conditions of belonging, well-being, engagement and expression that create How Does Learning Happen? are well established at TMS and Discovery Day Camp. “These foundations, or ways of being, are a vision for all children’s future potential and a view of what they should experience each and every day. These four foundations apply regardless of age, ability, culture, language, geography or setting” (p. 7). Discovery Day Camp allows children to creatively explore providing an excellent foundation for them to become confident, thoughtful and independent as they continue their journey towards becoming capable, lifelong learners. We strive for optimal learning AND care for each child!

Ministry of Education, Ontario, 2014, How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years

Our School’s Origins to Today

TMS School was established in 1961 as Toronto Montessori Schools by Mrs. Helma Trass with an initial enrolment of 12 students. In 1964, TMS moved from a rented basement in Don Mills to Richmond Hill and opened our Bayview Campus with two Children’s House classes and one Lower Elementary class. From these modest beginnings, TMS School has grown to an enrolment of nearly 800 students and now has a Toddler Program (18 months to 3 years), a Children’s House Program (3 to 6 years), an Elementary Program (Grades 1 to 6) and a College Program (Grades 7-12) which is located at our Elgin Mills Campus.

TMS School seamlessly combines our flagship Montessori program (18 months to Grade 6) with our welcoming International Baccalaureate Programme from Grade 7-12.

Toronto Montessori Institute (TMI), our teacher training institute, is also an integral part of TMS allowing us to function as a model school for the benefit of all our students.

TMS School is committed to ongoing improvement as a means to realizing our Vision. We regularly survey TMS families, faculty and staff to assist us in this effort. A number of accrediting bodies provide outside eyes, standards and expertise that assist us to continue to improve as well. We are accredited by the: • Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS) formerly the Canadian Educational Standards Institute (CESI) and the Canadian Association of

Independent Schools (CAIS) • Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators (CCMA) • International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) • Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE) • Ontario Ministry of Education TMS School is also an active member of the Conference of Independent Schools of Ontario (CIS).

The TMS Ideals

Respect yourself and others through graceful and courteous conduct.

Strive for your best in all areas: Academics, Arts, Athletics and Citizenship.

Make Good Choices that have positive effects and productive outcomes.

School Governance

TMS School is an independent school. It was incorporated as a non-denominational, non-profit organization in 1962 governed by a Board of Trustees which serves without remuneration. It is recognized as a private school by the Ontario Ministry of Education.

The purpose of the corporation is entirely educational: to operate a Montessori/International Baccalaureate school for students and to provide opportunities for the development of the whole student.

As a not-for-profit independent school, TMS is not supported by government funding.

Tuition pays for the basic costs of operating the school. Fundraising activities such as Galas and Capital Campaigns support improvements and other capital projects.

Annual Giving provides for desired enhancements which make a TMS education the best possible experience for each student.

The TMS Board of Trustees welcomes experienced and committed parents and others from the community to assist as members of advisory committees. Our current committees include the following: Advancement, Communications, Construction and Finance. Committee membership is yet another avenue for parents to contribute meaningfully to the success of our School. It may also provide interested individuals with a path to Board membership. Those who wish to share their talents and time to assist TMS by serving on a committee of the Board are encouraged to contact the TMS Board Chair or the Head of School to discuss their interest.

The TMS Board is an arm’s length board. The operation of the School is the responsibility of the Head of School, Mr. David Young, who, with the support of the School’s administrative team, oversees the daily operation, sets the pedagogical direction and implements TMS Board policies.

Services Offered and the Age Categories Served

TMS Discovery Day Camp offers programming for students aged 3 years to 3.8 years of age.

Purple Group (3 Year Old Program): The Purple Group program establishes an excellent foundation for students to become confident, thoughtful and independent as they continue their journey towards becoming capable, lifelong learners.

Current educational research and over 100 years of Montessori instruction demonstrates that 3 to 6 year old children possess an extraordinary capacity to absorb information from their surroundings and an innate desire to learn. Following in line with this belief the Purple Group program is equipped with various materials and activities that engage their natural desire to explore. Each camper experiences these activities in a calm and orderly environment that is prepared to meet the physical, social and emotional needs of children from 3 to 6 years of age.

The Purple group program includes instructional swimming lesson using the Red Cross Swim program. These lesson ae taught by qualified Red Cross swim instructors. All swim instructors also have current National Life Saving society life guard credentials. During Swim time the Purple group instructors are also on deck with the students.

Program Hours

Before School Care – Bayview Campus 7:30 – 8:30 am (Extended Care, fee for service) Purple Group Program (Half day) 8:30 – 11:50 am Staggered entry 8:30 – 9:00 am Purple Group Program (Full day) 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Staggered entry 8:30 – 9:00 am Staggered Dismissal 4:00-4:30

Extended Care Program

TMS offers fee-for-service before school care from 7:30 – 8:30 am, and after school care from 4:00 - 6:00 pm for students in the Purple Group.

To ensure each student’s safety and the orderly running of the School, all students who arrive before or stay after regular school hours in their division must be enrolled in the Extended Care Program. For more information please call the Camp Director at 905-889-6882 Ext. 2237or visit our web site at www.discoveryday.ca under the tab PARENT INFORMATION.

Holidays and Camp Closures TMS is closed on all Statutory Holidays.

Canada Day: July 1, 2016 Civic Holiday: August 1, 2016 Last day of Camp: August 19, 2016

Weather Closures

TMS Discovery Day Camp will remain open during all but the most severe winter weather. If the decision is made to close the Camp, information will be recorded on the school telephone 905-889-6882 ‘press ‘7’, the Home page of our Camp web site at www.discoveryday.ca , radio stations 680 AM and CHFI 98.1 FM and social media.

Camp closures are then listed on the Storm Centre of 680news.com.

Please note we will be listed as Discovery Day Camp.

TERMS OF ADMISSION – 3 Year Old Program 1. Children are accepted into the Purple Group are accepted into the Program at age three and must be toilet trained.

2. Discovery Day Camp (TMS School) reserves the right to accept or reject this application and also to request the withdrawal of any child if, in the opinion of the Instructor or Director, this action is for the benefit of the child or for the benefit of the group as a whole. The acceptance of the camper for one week does not indicate automatic acceptance into succeeding weeks.

3. Discovery Day Camp reserves the right to make such rules and regulations in the operation of the Camp as it deems appropriate, and it is a condition of attendance that these rules and regulations be observed.

TERMS OF PAYMENT – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY Registration is completed online at www.discoveryday.ca. The weekly fee for the 3 year old program half day is $ 225.00 and full day program is $ 400.00.

1. Each application must be submitted with a Birth Certificate or Passport and a $100

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deposit fee per week of registration. These documents must be submitted prior to the child entering the camp.

All cancellation requests must be received in writing by the Camp Office. Requests submitted prior to May 6, 2016 will be refunded minus a $100 administration fee.

Refunds will not be issued for cancellation requests received after May 6, 2016.

Refunds will not be issued for camp days missed for any reason.

Please allow four to six weeks for processing of refunds.

Program changes can be accommodated at any time, if space is available, by contacting the Camp Office, or by completing the Program Change Form with the Camp Director. Additional costs will be charged to your account where applicable.

For changes submitted after May 6, 2016, fee refunds resulting from program changes will be credited to your account, as there are no cash refunds. There will be $50 fee charge for any additional changes made to registration after June 10, 2016.

Programs may be cancelled.

Below are the online payment options that parents have when registering for the program. These options are only available for the dates as set out in the schedule.

The Home-Camp Partnership and Two Way Communication

At Discovery Day Camp we recognize the paramount importance of an effective home-camp partnership. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time in person, by telephone, by e-mail or with a note. We much prefer to hear about issues or address concerns immediately. It is our belief that a successful partnership depends on good communication between the family and the Camp.

Communication Policy & Channels of Communication

Your child’s Instructor and Counsellors is the first person to contact if you have questions about any situation concerning your child. If your question is not answered to your satisfaction, please see the Camp Director. When parents want to discuss an area of concern or have recommendations about an issue, they should contact the appropriate person via e-mail or voice mail to schedule a meeting.

Camp Matters such as: Camp Policy, Staff, Camp Activities, Camper Progress, Parent Concerns Contact (in this order): 1. The Appropriate Instructor 2. Camp Director Blaine Seamone – Director

bseamone@tmsschool.ca Bayview Campus: 905-889-6882 Ext. 2237 Admissions: Records, Student Placement Paula HoSing – Registrar phosing@tmsschool.ca Bayview Campus: 905-889-6882 Ext. 2226

Communicating with Faculty and Staff

Members of the Discovery Day Camp team and staff are readily accessible by written notes or in person. We strive to respond within one business day when we are contacted by parents.

Please note that immediately prior to the start of class, instructors are preparing to give their best effort to their campers and cannot take time to meet with parents in a fulsome fashion. Similarly, during dismissal they are concerned with the well-being of all the students preparing to leave for the day.

Discovery Day Camp staff are more than happy to schedule times for face-to-face meetings or telephone calls at times of the day when they are not focused on their campers. As professionals, the Discovery Day Camp staff will not undertake communication about student achievement, behaviour, or well-being via e-mail. We recognize the importance of a true conversation via telephone or face-to-face when working together with parents to discuss serious issues and concerns.

TMS Discovery Day Camp Traffic Safety Policy

Student safety is the first and foremost consideration in determining how students are dropped off and picked up at our campus. The TMS community must ensure that these guidelines are followed by all students, parents and staff with no exception to the rules.

Drop-Off and Pick-Up Procedures Bayview Campus

Drop-Off  Students in Purple Group must be escorted to their classes  Prior to 8:30 am students at the Bayview Campus may be signed in for Extended Care in Room 116 Drop-Off Zone  Please do not leave vehicles unattended in the “Drop-Off Zone” (Kiss and Go area) or in the “No Parking Zone”. This zone is a fire route and parked vehicles are subject to being tagged or towed  Please do stop in the marked pedestrian crossing  Do not park or stop in left lane next to the “Drop-Off Zone” Circle and stop when a spot becomes available Pick-Up

 Purple group students must be picked up at their classrooms Pedestrian Crossing  Please yield to pedestrians at the designated crossing  Cross only at the designated pedestrian crossing Signage, Lane Marking and Traffic Calming  Read and obey the traffic signs and respect the lane markings  Maximum speed is posted at 20 km/h

Parking – Bayview Campus

Parent Parking  All campers must be accompanied by an adult when in the parking lot  Please do not park in fire routes, handicapped spaces or expectant mothers’ spaces. Violators may be tagged or towed  Please do not double park or park in unmarked spaces  The northern most lot (with the basketball nets) must not have cars parked under the nets between 12:00 and 1:15 pm during dry days Parking and Traffic Enforcement  Parking is available only in designated areas  Vehicles parked in No Parking zones (including fire routes), the Drop-Off Zone/Kiss and Go area, or Handicapped spaces without a permit may be ticketed and/or towed by the Town of Richmond Hill which enforces municipal by-laws  Discovery Day Camp cannot prevent the Town of Richmond Hill from enforcing the by-Laws and issuing tickets, nor will TMS pay for tickets which have been issued

Transportation •

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Discovery Day Camp does not provide bus service between home and Camp. If you want this service, arrangements may be made directly by parents with private carriers, such as Kids Limo at 905-771-9678 or e-mail info@kidslimo.com.

Discovery Day Camp does not accept any liability for the use of a private carrier.

Public Transit stops are located near both campuses

No Smoking Policy

Staff, volunteers, parents and visitors are advised that smoking is prohibited on premises and on the playground area whether children are present or not.

Lateness and Absences •

Lateness may negatively impact the student’s day. Parents are asked, therefore, to organize their family to arrive at Camp in a punctual fashion

Unavoidable Lateness and Absences The reporting of lateness and absences is intended to protect all students. Parents should call the Camp and connect to the Safe Arrival line 905-889-6882 as soon as possible in

the morning to report the reason for a student’s lateness or absence.

In the case of planned lateness or absence, a note or email should be sent to the Camp Director prior to the date.

In the case where a student in Purple Group is not present and parents have not sent a note/e-mail in advance or called the Camp, we will call the parents to confirm the child’s whereabouts Leaving School Early If a student must leave camp early, a note/e-mail or a telephone call from the camper’s parent/guardian is required indicating the time and reason for early dismissal. If providing a note, please see the Instructor at your child’s room and they will ensure the camper is ready for pick up at your requested time.

Illness In the case of a legitimate illness, campers should stay home to convalesce.

The Camp needs to be advised by a parent or guardian if a student is unable to attend classes because of illness. Parents are asked to assist the Camp in preventing the transfer of communicable illnesses by keeping children home when they are ill.

A daily observation of each student is made when receiving the child in order to detect possible signs and symptoms of ill health. When a student appears to be ill during the day, the child is separated from other children and the symptoms of the illness are recorded. The child is isolated from other children in the nurse’s office or the Director’s office until the child is picked up by the designate allowed to pick up the child. Families must follow the Discovery Day Camp Health Policy to determine when a child is permitted to return to school.

The Discovery Day Camp Health Policy: • High Temperature - Your child should remain at home if he/she has a temperature over 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit). Do not bring your child back to Camp until his or her temperature is normal and he/she has been fever-free, without the aid of acetaminophen, for 24 hours • Ear Infection - If your child has an ear infection, do not bring your child back to Camp until he/she has been on antibiotics for 24 hours • Stomach Ache - If your child has a stomach ache, keep your child at home until he/she regains his or her appetite and has normal bowel movements • Vomiting/Diarrhea - Your child may return to Camp when he/she has not vomited or had diarrhea for 24 hours In all circumstances of absence for medical reasons, seek the advice of your child’s doctor to determine an appropriate time for your child to return to Camp.

Communicable Diseases

All students in Purple Group have immunization records and a record of previous communicable diseases on file. These records are received prior to the child attending Discovery Day Camp. If your child contracts a communicable disease (e.g. Chicken Pox, Measles, etc.), you must keep your child at home and immediately report this to the

Main Office at Discovery Day Camp. This will enable staff to watch for symptoms in other students and to inform a student’s parents and the office if symptoms emerge. We will work to keep all students healthy and safe.

An e-mail will be sent to parents when there is a public health requirement to inform regarding an illness in a given group or the Camp.

Student Medication

All prescribed medications administered by Discovery Day Camp must be: • Prescribed by the child’s doctor • In the original labeled container supplied by the pharmacist which indicates the child’s name, the name of the medication, dosage of medication to be administered, date of purchase, instructions for storage and administration • Accompanied by the Medication/Treatment Record form, which must be signed by the parent and indicates instructions Non-prescribed medications can only be administered when accompanied by a Medication/Treatment Record form completed by the child’s parent/guardian. Each non-prescribed medication is labeled with child’s name and classroom number, product name, expiry date, storage requirements, dosage and date of purchase.

All medication is stored in a locked cabinet or lock box in the refrigerator in the Nurse’s office. Long term medications, such as Epi-pens, asthma inhalers, etc. are to be located in the nurse’s office and the classroom. All medications are to be handed directly to a staff member when the child arrives at school. A staff member will return the medication to the parent/guardian at dismissal.

Medications are administered by the School Nurse or her designate.

Medical Forms

It is crucial for each child’s safety that parents provide Discovery Day Camp with a completed medical form prior to the first day of School each year.  This form should be returned to the Main Office  Parents are reminded to contact the Camp to update any information immediately regarding changes to a student’s health, medication, contact numbers or address

Allergies

Life Threatening Allergy Alert Some children and adults at Discovery Day Camp have life threatening allergies to various substances. It is the responsibility of all parents to respond cooperatively to requests from the Camp to eliminate allergens from packed lunches and snacks. Parents are also asked to encourage children to respect anaphylactic children and the school policies.

For any Camper or staff member, all allergies must be listed on the student’s medical form in order to allow the Camp to properly assist him/her. In the case where an individual in a given class has a life threatening allergy to a given substance, parents of

all students in that group will be asked to avoid sending that allergen to the classroom.

Nut Safe Camp Peanut/nut products are a common fatal allergen for many individuals. Even the residue of nut oil left on furniture or utensils can cause a life-threatening reaction. As a result, Discovery Day Camp works to be nut safe. No peanut or nut containing products are to be brought to TMS Discovery Day Camp.

EpiPens For children in Purple group the family is asked to provide two EpiPens. One will remain in the student’s instructors and one will be stored in the Main Office.

Accidents at School

Discovery Day Camp works to prevent student injuries by carefully selecting and monitored student activities. Thoughtful and caring attention will be provided for any student injured during school hours. This includes the administration of first aid, contacting 911 if warranted, and informing the Camp nurse.

Every attempt will be made to notify parents at home or work for any child receiving a head injury or other serious injuries requiring further medical attention.

All accidents during Camp activities are reported to the Main Office and kept on file.

Parents may request or decline a copy of the accident report. The Camp Director will review accident reports at the end of day to ensure appropriate preventative measures were in place and the follow up has been handled correctly. Parents with questions about any incident leading to injury are encouraged to contact the Camp Director.

Fire Drills and Lockdown

As part of our commitment to safety, the School has a detailed plan for fire and lockdown procedures. We regularly practice fire drills and lockdown. Parents in the building during either event are asked to follow staff direction.

Visitors

Bayview Campus In accordance with our Safe School Policy and to protect our students:  Parents/Guardians are provided with a TMS identification badge and are asked to wear it at all times on School property  All visitors, including parents without their badges, are required to report to the Main Office to sign in and obtain a visitor badge, which must be worn while in the School  Individuals under the age of 18 years who wish to visit the School must be accompanied by a parent, unless prior arrangements have been made for their visit

Lunches Half Day Students in the 3 year old program receive one snack per day from Rose Reisman Catering. Full Day Students in the 3 year old program receive 2 snacks and lunch from Rose Reisman Catering. Menus are posted outside of the classroom. Drinking water and staying hydrated is important for good health. Campers in the 3 year old program are required to bring their own water bottle clearly labeled with their name.

Birthdays At the Bayview Campus we would like to help celebrate your child’s birthday with a simple celebration that symbolizes your child’s life and accomplishments.

If you wish to bring a small nutritious snack to school to celebrate your child’s birthday in the 3 year old program please discuss the food(s) you wish to contribute with your child’s instructor in advance to ensure that the day is special and acceptable for all students in the class and to complete the Incoming Food Log.

Dress Code

Campers may wear shorts and t-shirts with white socks and running shoes in July and August. This type of footwear gives campers the proper support and footing for indoor and outdoor play.

Recess and Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities and physical education classes are viewed as an important part of the programs day.      

All campers are expected to participate outdoors Campers must have appropriate footwear, outerwear and accessories for the day’s weather conditions for activities taking place outdoors Campers go outside everyday weather permitting for approximately 2 hours Any camper who is too ill to go outside should be considered too ill to attend Camp The Camp provides an excellent ratio of adult to camper supervision and carefully prepared areas for student activity The Lead Instructor regularly counsel and advise their students in advance with regard to safe and respectful play at recess and follow up when issues arise

Inclement Weather and Outdoor Activities

Campers in the 3 year old program will not go outside if the weather is minus ten degrees Celsius or colder (including the wind-chill) or over 30 degrees Celsius with the humidity.

Lost and Found

Parents are strongly encouraged to label all clothing and belongings in order to assist children to find misplaced and lost items without difficulty.  Clothing – the use of iron-on labels or marker on clothing tags is very helpful  Shoes – mark the inside of the tongue in permanent marker

TMS Code of Conduct

All members of the TMS community; students, staff, parents and others have the responsibility to act in a manner that promotes Grace and Courtesy. We promote this by asking all members of the TMS community to follow the TMS Ideals at all times.

TMS Ideals: Respect, Strive and Make Good Choices

1. Respect yourself and others through graceful and courteous conduct.

2. Strive for your best in all areas; Academics, Arts, Athletics and Citizenship.

3. Make good choices that have positive effects and productive outcomes.

Each member of the TMS community must be committed to creating a supportive and caring environment in and out of camp. When a member of the community chooses to act in a manner that contravenes our TMS Ideals, the faculty and administration will work with that individual to provide appropriate consequences. In serious cases, these consequences may include suspension or expulsion of campers, and suspension or dismissal for faculty and staff. The Camp Director is the final arbitrator in the case of all consequences.

Accordingly, the following are a list of prohibited practices at TMS: • Corporal punishment of the child • Deliberate use of harsh or degrading measures on the child that would humiliate the child or undermine his or her self-respect • Depriving the child of basic needs including food, shelter, clothing or bedding • Locking the exits of the child care centre for the purpose of confining the child • Using a locked or lockable room or structure to confine the child if he or she has been separated from other children

Standards of Behaviour

By enrolling in TMS and the Discovery Day Camp, Campers and families automatically assume the obligation to comply with the provisions of the Code of Conduct. Central to the Code of Conduct is the understanding that each student and family will follow certain standards of behaviour. Self-discipline and a willingness to accept responsibility for one’s actions and conduct are fundamental to the Code of Conduct.

Respect, Civility, and Responsible Citizenship

All members of the school and camp community must:  respect and comply with all applicable federal, provincial, and municipal laws;  demonstrate honesty and integrity;  respect differences in people, their ideas, and their opinions;  treat one another with dignity and respect at all times, and especially when there is disagreement;  respect and treat others fairly, regardless of, race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability etc.;  respect the rights of others;  show proper care and regard for school property and the property of others;

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take appropriate measures to help those in need; seek assistance from a member of the school staff, if necessary, to resolve conflict peacefully; respect all members of the school community, especially persons in positions of authority; respect the need of others to work in an environment that is conducive to learning and teaching; and not to swear at another person.

Biting and Injurious Behaviours in the 3 Year old program 

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When the incident occurs the children will be immediately separated. The “biter” will be isolated with an adult in the classroom for a period of reflection and to ensure that no other children are injured. The focus at this time should be on the “victim”. The injured child will be seen by the nurse and an accident report will be completed A conversation with the “biter” will occur to determine the cause of the biting and to explain that this behaviour is not acceptable The parents of both children will be notified by telephone to inform, explain the situation and apologize. All information regarding the telephone calls will be documented on the accident report The Camp Director will be informed Instructors will monitor children closely and be alert for any indication that this behaviour may be repeated The Camp and parents will work as a team to assist the child and support each other. This may require a meeting with parents, Instructor and the Camp Director to review concerns and develop solutions If the behaviour is habitual (more than 2 occurrences): The “biter” may be shadowed by staff for a period of time. This individual will remain at arm’s length from the child at all times. They will observe, track and intervene if necessary. This individual is not to interact with the child because a 1:1 ratio will be seen as a positive for the child and we do not want to give positive reinforcement for a negative behaviour. The duration of this arrangement will be determined by the Camp Director A child will not necessarily be sent home for this behaviour. The decision will depend on the context of the situation. In some cases the child may be brought to the office of the Camp Director to ensure the safety of his/her classmates In the case of a habitual behaviour, the camp will ask for the child to be removed if the parents do not provide a shadow and work to find a solution together with the Camp

Serious Occurrences Reporting The Safety and well-being of our children at TMS School is the highest priority and we work diligently to provide a safe, creative and nurturing environment for each child. In spite of all the best precautions, serious occurrences can sometimes take place.

The Ontario government has introduced a new policy that requires licensed child care centers and private home day care agencies to post information about serious occurrences that happen at a center of a home location effective November 1, 2011.

To support increased transparency and access to information, a "Serious Occurrence Notification Form" must be posted at the center in a visible area for 10 business days.

A serious occurrence could include: • Serious injury to a child • Fire or other disaster on premises • Complaint about a service standard • Abuse • Missing Child Licensed child care centers are required to report serious occurrences to the Ministry of Education, which is responsible for child care licensing. This new policy requires child care operators to information in the facilities so that parents also have access to it.

This posting will give parents information about the incident and outline follow-up actions taken and the outcomes, while respecting the privacy of the individuals involved.

Longer-term actions taken by the operator will also be included to help prevent similar Incidents in the future, where applicable.

Many factors may lead to a serious occurrence report. A serious occurrence does not necessarily mean that an operator is out of compliance with licensing requirements or that children are at risk in the child care program.

This new policy supports the government' s efforts to increase access to information about licensed child care programs in Ontario. This includes the recent launch of child care licensing inspection findings on the Licensed Child Care Website which is available at: http://www.ontario.ca/ONT/portal61/licensedchildcar

Optimism and TMS

We are fortunate as a Camp and a community to have terrific students, staff, parents and alumni. Together, we make our Camp an exceptional place to learn and work. We share an enormous commitment to achieving our Mission through ongoing effort and improvement. We strive to make each day at TMS Discovery Day Camp a great educational experience for each student. We work in a planned and mindful fashion to ensure each of these days flows together in a seamless manner that enables each student to discover and go beyond. We thank you for choosing TMS Discovery Day Camp and your efforts to make us a better camp.