Children Learn What They Live
If a child lives with criticism
He learns to condemn
If a child lives with hostility
He learns to fight
If a child lives with ridicule
She learns to be shy
If a child lives with shame
She learns to feel guilty
If a child lives with tolerance
He learns to be patient
If a child lives with encouragement
She learns to be confident
If a child lives with praise
He learns to appreciate
If a child lives with fairness
She learns justice
If a child lives with security
He learns to have faith
If a child lives with approval
She learns to like herself
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship
He learns to find love in the world.
Dorothy Law Nolte, Ph.D.
1972
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
Mission Statement.............................................................................................................................2
Center Philosophy.............................................................................................................................2
Daily Schedule (School Year Program) ............................................................................................2
Daily Schedule (Summer Program) ..................................................................................................3
Services Offered ............................................................................................................................. 4
Payment/Tuition/Fees ..................................................................................................................... 4
Holiday Closings ............................................................................................................................. 4
Parent Involvement ......................................................................................................................... 5
Student Arrival and Dismissal ......................................................................................................... 5
Discipline Philosophy ...................................................................................................................... 5
Termination of Care by Parent ........................................................................................................ 6
Termination of Care by Program ..................................................................................................... 6
Things to Bring On the First Day ..................................................................................................... 7
Sunscreen/Insect Repellent... ......................................................................................................... 7
Health/Illness. ................................................................................................................................. 7
Medication ...................................................................................................................................... 8
Communicable Disease Policy ........................................................................................................ 9
Data Privacy ................................................................................................................................. 10
Injury Reports ............................................................................................................................... 10
Emergency Evacuations/Closings ................................................................................................. 11
Policy on Abuse/Neglect/Sex Abuse ..............................................................................................11
State Licensing Requirements .......................................................................................................11
Field Trips ......................................................................................................................................12
Feedback/Suggestions ..................................................................................................................12
Enrollment Policies & Regulations. ................................................................................................13
Sample Forms Section
Club Choices..................................................................................................................................15
Medication Regulations ............................................................................................................. ….18
Lunchbox Suggestions ...................................................................................................................19
Handbook Contract ........................................................................................................................20
Withdrawal Notification Form .........................................................................................................21
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ESLC’S MISSION AND PURPOSE
Our mission is to provide a safe, healthy environment for children to explore, grow and develop
to their maximum potential. We provide a balanced, structured program comprised of educational and
creative experiences as well as physical activities in which staff guide the children in gaining
confidence in themselves and the world in which they live.
CENTER PHILOSOPHY
East Side Learning Center provides a warm, inviting and stimulating program within which the
needs of each child can be met. We understand that each child is a distinct being, different from others
in some ways, yet sharing many of the same basic needs. Our program is designed in such a way that
we can respond to the needs, interests, and maturity level of each child.
Our environment provides extensive opportunities for children to fully explore their surroundings
and to grow and develop to their maximum individual potential at their own rate. Our unique and
innovative approach incorporates learning in a “club” based environment comprised of distinct learning
disciplines/topics.
East Side Learning Center believes that in order to ensure a child’s success at her Center,
Parents must share all information regarding any child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) prior to
admission. By sharing this information, the Center can assist the parent with ensuring the necessary
supports are in place to better ensure the child’s success. However, in order to keep rates as low as
possible, the Center maintains ratios that do not allow extraordinary or one-on-one care. Accordingly, if
the child needs supervision greater than the State mandated ratios, Parents(s) may be asked to
coordinate such services privately or through the local education agency (LEA). The Center reserves
the right to prohibit enrollment of any child, or discharge a child from the program, if parents withhold
information pertaining to the child, or if the child is excessively disruptive or represents a danger to
themselves, other children or staff.
We realize that you as parents are your children's primary role models and hope that we can
support you in your very important efforts.
6:30-
2:303:103:154:45-
9:009:159:4511:0011:1512:30-
School-Age Daily Schedule (School Year Program)
7:35 AM
Before School Care Provided-Busing times vary yearly.
After School Program
3:10PM
Attendance/transition group
3:15PM
Daily Announcements
4:45PM
Club Choices
5:30PM
Clean Up/Free Choices
Kindergarten Schedule (School Year Program)
9:15 AM
Snack
9:45 AM
Circle Time
11:00 AM
Centers/Small groups
11:15AM
Lunch
12:30PM
Indoor/Outdoor Play
1:00PM
Circle/Quiet Time
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1:001:452:152:303:154:45-
6:309:009:309:4511:3012:003:003:30-
1:45PM
2:15PM
2:30PM
3:15PM
4:45PM
5:30PM
Centers/Small groups
Learning Centers
Snack
Group Activities/Free Play
Club Choices
Clean Up/Free Choices
School-Age Daily Schedule {Summer Program)
9:00 AM
Free Choice
9:30 AM
Group Meeting
9:45 AM
Snack
11:30 AM
Indoor/Outdoor Activities
12:00 PM
Lunch
3:00 PM
Swim Lessons/Field Trips
3:30 PM
Snack
5:30 PM
Free Swim/Indoor or Outdoor Activities
SERVICES OFFERED:

Child care starting at 6:30 AM and ending at 5:30 PM (Monday to Friday) during school days,
vacation weeks and summer vacation.

Before and after school care for Eastman, Dame, Beaver Meadow and Broken Ground Schools
as well as other schools in which parents provide their own transportation.

Transportation to and from Dame (grades 1-2 and PM kindergarten) and Beaver Meadow
Schools (grades 1-5 and PM kindergarten).

Transportation to and from Eastman School provided by Concord School District.

Before and after kindergarten care.

Summer program for children entering grades K-6.

Nutritious morning and afternoon snack for kindergarten students.

A nutritious afternoon snack is served to students in grades 1-5 after school. During school
vacations morning and afternoon snack is served to all students.

Swimming lessons during June, July, & August with American Red Cross certified instructors.
PAYMENT:
Payment Policy: One account will be set up per family. Payments must be made weekly or biweekly. Checks may be placed in the mailbox next to the check in computer and made out to ESLC.
Cash and money orders are accepted. Please state on your check the week(s) paid for. If more than
two weeks tuition is due your child will not be allowed to return to the center until the account is paid in
full.
A bounced check will be returned, not re-deposited. The amount of the check plus a $10.00
returned check fee must then be paid by money order or cash within three (3) business days. After the
second offense personal checks will no longer be accepted. Money orders or cash will then be required
for future payments. If an account shows an unpaid balance at the end of one program, childcare will
not be provided until the account is paid in full.
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We also accept state reimbursement for those who are eligible. Parents must obtain and
complete the required forms from the state prior to the child’s first day at the center. Parents are
expected to pay their co-payment weekly or bi-weekly
.
TUITION /LATE CHARGES:
The hours of the center are 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM. If your child is picked up after 5:30 PM there will be an
additional charge of $1.00 for every minute, payable immediately, if possible, to the staff person in charge.
Excessive lateness could lead to termination from the program.
FEES
Full-time care
$160 per week
Before / after kindergarten care
$30 per day
Before & after school care
$18 per day
After school only (grades 1-5)
$15 per day
Full day (vacation, snow days, etc.)
$35 Kindergarten
Full day (vacation, snow days, etc.)
$32 per day, grades 1-5
Family Discount
$5 per child, per week
(For 2 or more children attending 5 days per week)
Registration and supply fee
$50 yearly
Summer Recreation Fee
$50 per summer
Late tuition payment
$5 per week
Late pick-ups
$1 per minute after 5:30 PM
TUITION ASSISTANCE:
For information regarding tuition assistance requirements and eligibility please contact:
Quality Early Learning Opportunity Initiative-Southern New Hampshire Services, Inc.
603-668-8010 or 800-322-1073
OR
NH Department of Health and Human Services, Family Assistance Division
603- 271-6201 or 800-322-9191
HOLIDAY CLOSINGS :
East Side Learning Center is open from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday, 52 weeks a
year. We will be closed in observance of the following holidays:
New Year's Eve (3 PM closing)
New Year's Day
Memorial Day
4th of July
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Labor Day
Veteran's Day
Thanksgiving Day
Day after Thanksgiving
Christmas Eve (1 PM closing)
Christmas Day
We will be closed for Staff Professional Development on Martin Luther King Jr, Day and
Columbus Day.
In order to prepare for program transition, we will also be closed on the first week day following
the last day of school for Concord School District and the last week day before CSD begins in the fall.
On school vacations and floating holidays, parents are asked to sign up their children in
advance, for staffing purposes.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT:
Our center encourages parents to be an active part of our program. We do not prohibit parents
from unannounced access to their child during all hours of operation.
Parents' help is encouraged and valued especially for clubs, enrichment clubs, field trips,
holiday parties, spring fling and special events. We rely on your support, suggestions and volunteer
hours to make these activities a success.
Parent orientation nights are held prior to each program change in the spring and fall. Dates
and times of the orientation/information nights will be posted on the “Upcoming Events” board.
Parent information is posted daily on the “Upcoming Events” board, in monthly newsletters,
and through email. Parents are encouraged to take time each day to view these items. A staff person
is usually available during regular business hours, either by telephone or in person, to address any
questions or concerns that may arise.
STUDENT ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL:
All parents and guardians are required to enter and exit the building using the main
entrance only, for safety and security reasons.
As a security feature and to provide accurate attendance records for billing purposes, we have
a “sign-in” computer located next to the office. Parents or designated authorized pick-up persons must
sign their child(ren) in and out each day. Children arriving after school will be signed in by a staff
member.
All authorized pick-up persons must furnish an identification code (four characters only) that will
be linked to your child(ren). You may use letters or numbers, or a combination of the two. Also, you
must indicate whether or not you would like each person to have access to your account balance, your
child’s schedule and immunization records.
If it is necessary for someone who does not have an identification code to pick up your child,
please call the office prior to pick-up and a staff member will sign your child out at the time of pick-up.
Please do not share your identification code.
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DISCIPLINE PHILOSOPHY:
Our belief is that discipline is the process by which children learn self control. Discipline is not
punishment. Discipline is redirecting, teaching, and guiding using the philosophy of natural, logical
consequences. There is an emphasis placed on what is socially acceptable in our society.
The New Hampshire Bureau of Child Care Standards and Licensing includes the following rules
for discipline in its operating standards for New Hampshire Child Care Facilities, of which we follow:
1. Discipline practices shall support the child's behavior with positive guidance as well as
the setting of clear cut limits which foster the child's own ability to be self disciplined.
2. Corporal punishment shall not be used.
3. Child care agencies shall not use forms of punishment which are humiliating, shaming,
frightening, or otherwise damaging to children.
Any staff person who sees or hears another staff person dealing with a child in a way that is
inappropriate or harmful is responsible for speaking to that person and if necessary, bringing it to the
attention of the On-Site Supervisor. We are all responsible for the physical and emotional well being of
every child at this center.
TIMES OF PHYSICAL CONTACT:
It is our philosophy, belief and practice that children require physical contact for their care and
healthy development. The contact can be described in three ways:
Nurturing: This includes hugs and non-intimate kisses, hand-holding, gentle tickling, carrying,
cuddling, and back rubbing. This type of contact is never made against the expressed wishes of the
child.
Safety and Guidance: This includes restraining children from harmful situations, separating conflicting
children, guiding children by gently leading them, and administering first aid to injuries.
Hygiene: This includes face and hand washing, assisting with toileting, examining rashes or unusual
marks, nose blowing, and conducting necessary clothing changes.
TERMINATION OF CARE BY THE PARENT:
When parents decide to terminate this child care arrangement, a one week’s written notice to
the Director is required. In the great majority of cases, termination of care by the parent is due to
reasons such as relocation, child entering school, etc. However, we also recognize that not every
situation is appropriate for every child. If for any reason, this program is found to be unsatisfactory for
any particular child, we will make every effort to discuss this with the parents in order to determine the
cause. Sometimes, we can help the child make the adjustment. If this is not possible, the parent and/or
program may choose to terminate the arrangement on a time-line that is in the child's best interest.
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TERMINATION OF CARE BY THE PROGRAM:
As stated above, the child's adjustment to the program and the appropriateness of this
particular care arrangement for an individual child may cause concern for the child's well-being. If the
program staff does not feel that it is meeting the child's needs, we reserve the right to terminate the
care arrangement on a time-line that is in the child's best interest. Other reasons which may result in
the termination of a specific arrangement are as follows:
1.
Non-payment for child care services and/or lack of adherence to our tuition payment policies.
2.
Lack of cooperation from parents with the program's efforts to resolve differences and/ or to meet
the child's needs through parent/ staff meetings or conferences.
3.
Abusive behaviors and/ or verbal threats by parents toward program staff or other parents.
(Immediate Termination)
4.
Parents disciplining, in any way, children other than their own while at the program.
5.
Child exhibits special needs or has special needs related to a serious illness that are not possible
to meet at the program. In this case, the program staff will make every effort to involve parents,
and possibly other resource persons (as appropriate), in order to decide together on the best
course of action for this child, prior to any termination.
6.
Refer to "No Violence Policy".
7.
Staff feels that a child is endangering another child / children in the program.
THINGS TO BRING FOR THE FIRST DAY:
Please label all items brought in to avoid any mix-ups!
CLOTHING:
Winter: Children will have the option of outside play, weather permitting. If temperature is less
than 20° F, they will only be outside for fifteen minute periods. Each child is expected to have a labeled
hat, mittens, boots, and snow pants.
Summer: Hats and/or sun visors are recommended for hot days. Sneakers are recommended
for outdoor play and field trips (excluding lakes/pools trips). Sandals/slip-on shoes are required for the
pool and lakes. Your child needs to have a towel, bathing suit and water bottle each day of summer at
the center. All clothing, swim items, games, etc. should be marked with your child's name on it.
SUNSCREEN /INSECT REPELLENT:
Permission forms must be signed in order for the center to apply sunscreen and/or insect
repellent to your child. ESLC will provide the sunscreen and insect repellent. Sunscreen is applied
during our summer program only
HEALTH/ILLNESS:
All children ages 2 1/2 - 5 (at the time of exam) are required to have a physical prior to entering
the center and every year thereafter until the age of 6. Children ages 6 and older (at the time of exam)
are required to have a physical exam every two years. Health and immunization forms are required by
the NH Dept. of Health and are to be on file at the center on or before your child's starting date. Any
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significant medical facts should be made clear to the center, including ALLERGIES (such as sinus,
insect stings, etc.), ASTHMA, ADA, ADHD, etc.
The center is not set up to care for ill children. IF A CHILD IS WELL ENOUGH TO ATTEND
THE CENTER, HE/SHE IS WELL ENOUGH TO PLAY OUTSIDE. If the temperature is less than 20°F,
the children will go outside for 15 minute periods. If your child becomes ill while at the center, you will
be contacted and asked to pick up your child immediately. There is a cot available for the ill child to
rest on while waiting to be picked up.
Your child should stay home if he/ she is feverish or contagious or has head lice. Illnesses such
as diarrhea, vomiting, conjunctivitis, etc., are very easily spread from one child to another.
If your child shows signs of illness at the center, you will be called and asked to come and get
him/ her. Children do become ill and it would be wise to plan ahead for such occasions. If you cannot
take time off from work when your child is ill, then you must find someone (perhaps a relative or friend)
who can care for your child when he / she is ill.
If for some reason your child will not be in (due to illness, school activities, outings with friends,
etc.), please notify the center. When a child does not arrive as expected, we worry.
The New Hampshire Child Care Agency Licensing Rules states in Section He-C 4002.15 Child
Health Requirements part (1) that the identity of any individual with HIV infection shall be held
confidential in accordance with RSA 141:F:8.
MEDICATION:
If medication is required, a signed note from the doctor and parent with amount of doses, dates
and times to be administered must be submitted. All medicine must be in the original container with the
pharmacist's label. A "permission to dispense medication" form is to be filled out for all medication and
signed by the parent(s). The first dose of any medication must have been administered prior to bringing
the child to the center. Medication is stored in an area accessible to staff only.
GUIDELINES FOR EXCLUSION FROM THE PROGRAM:
Certain symptoms in children may suggest the presence of a communicable disease. Children
who have the following symptoms should be excluded from the child care setting until: 1) a physician
has certified the symptoms are not associated with an infectious agent or they are no longer a threat to
the health of other children at the program, or 2) the symptoms have subsided.
Fever: Axillary or oral temperature: 101 degrees or higher especially if accompanied by other
symptoms such as vomiting, sore throat, diarrhea, headache, stiff neck or undiagnosed rash.
Respiratory Symptoms: Difficult or rapid breathing or severe coughing. Child makes high-pitched
croupy or whooping sound after he coughs, and child is unable to lie comfortably due to continuous
cough.
Diarrhea: An increased number of abnormally loose stools in the previous 24 hours. Observe the child
for other symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, or vomiting.
Vomiting: Two or more episodes of vomiting within the previous 24 hours.
Eye/Nose Drainage: Thick mucus or pus draining from the eye or nose.
Sore Throat: Sore throat, especially when fever or swollen glands in the neck are present.
Skin Problems: Rash: skin rashes, undiagnosed or contagious. Infected sores: sores with crusty,
8
yellow or green drainage which cannot be covered by clothing or bandages.
Itching: Persistent itching (or scratching) of body or scalp.
Appearance/Behavior: Child looks or acts differently, unusually tired, pale, lacking appetite, confused,
irritable, and difficult to awaken.
Unusual Color: The following symptoms can be found in hepatitis and should be evaluated by a
physician.
Eyes or skin: yellow (jaundice)
Stool: grey or white, Urine: dark, tea colored
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE POLICY:
Parents are asked to notify the program within 24 hours if their child has been exposed to any
communicable disease.
The program will notify all parents in writing when the children in the program have been
exposed to a communicable disease. Further, the program will notify the Commissioner of Health when
any illness or condition specified by law or regulation is present in the program within 24 hours of the
program's awareness of this situation. Parents are notified of symptoms, and program policy is
followed with regard to posting a notice.
When a staff person feels a physician's opinion is needed, the lead staff person will discuss the
symptoms with the On-Site Supervisor or her designate and bring the matter to the parent's attention.
Oral Herpes (Cold Sores): No exclusion necessary.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough): Exclude until treatment begins.
Pinworms: Exclude until child has been treated by a physician and examination of the perianal area is
negative for pinworm eggs for three consecutive studies. Exclude until 5 to 7 days after antibiotic.
Respiratory Illness (Febrile): Exclude until child is without fever for 24 hours and is well enough to
participate in normal daily activities.
Ringworm: Scalp: exclude until 24 hours after treatment begins.
Body: exclude until after treatment begins.
Roseola: No exclusion is necessary.
Rubella (German Measles): Exclude until 5 days after rash appears.
Scabies: Exclude until 24 hours after treatment begins.
Streptococcal Sore Throat. Scarlet Fever: Exclude until at least 24 hours after treatment begins and
child is without fever for 24 hours.
Yeast Infection (Thrush): No exclusion is necessary unless an unusual number of children are
infected.
Consult your local or state health department or child's physician for exclusion guidelines for
hepatitis A, meningitis, or other infections not described here. Special exclusion guidelines may be
9
recommended in the event of an outbreak of an infectious disease in a child care setting. Consult your
local or state health department when there is more than one case of communicable disease.
Inadequately immunized children: If a case of measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis or polio occurs in
the child care setting, children who are inadequately or incompletely immunized will be excluded for the
communicable period of the disease. This exclusion is necessary because these children may become
infected and contribute to further disease spread. This exclusion also applies to children who have not
been immunized for religious reasons.
GUIDELINES FOR READMITTING:
AIDS: Exclude infected child if he exhibits biting behavior, is not in control of his body fluids, or has
open sores which cannot be covered.
Chicken Pox: Exclude until all the blisters have dried into scabs; about 6 days after rash onset.
Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye): Exclude until 24 hours after treatment.
Diarrhea (Infectious): Generally, exclude until stool returns to normal form. Each specific disease
situation needs to be evaluated on an individual basis.
Fifth Disease: No exclusion necessary.
Giardiasis: For those with diarrhea only; exclude until the child has started treatment and diarrhea is
no longer present.
Hand. Foot. and Mouth Disease: Exclude until fever is gone and child is well enough to participate in
normal daily activities (sores may still be present).
Hepatitis B: No exclusion necessary unless infected child exhibits biting behavior or has open wounds
that cannot be covered.
Impetigo: Exclude until sores are healed or can be covered with bandages, or until child has been
treated with antibiotics for at least a full 24 hours.
Lice (Head): Exclude until first treatment has been completed and no live lice are seen.
Measles: Exclude until 4 days after the rash appears.
Mumps: Exclude until swelling subsides, usually 5 days but may be as long as 9 days after swelling
begins.
DATA PRIVACY:
Records concerning your child: enrollment forms, health records, observation records and
written parent-teacher conference reports and all other information about your child is confidential
information and will only be accessible to you, our ESLC Staff, your child's teacher, and a person
designated by the state licensing department to review our records for licensing purposes.
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INJURY REPORTS:
If a child sustains an injury, other than a minor scrape or bruise, while in the care of the center
the attending staff member, after administering first aid to the child, will complete an injury report form
and sign it. This form must also be signed by the parent on that day. The On Site Supervisor will review
and sign the injury report form.
Parents will be notified either by telephone, inter-office email, or in person if their child has an injury
report.
EMERGENCY EVACUATION/CLOSING:
If an emergency arises (power outage, severe weather, etc.) we will remain open unless or until
we determine that the center has become unsafe. If the emergency requires us to evacuate the
building, all staff and children are to meet at the edge of the parking lot next to the buses. If we must
leave the property, all students will then be transported to Broken Ground School on Portsmouth
Street. In the event that the entire neighborhood is evacuated all students will be transported to Shaker
Road School. Emergency closings and evacuations will be posted on WMUR TV and radio station
105.5 if possible.
POLICY ON ABUSE /NEGLECT /SEX ABUSE:
PART 1
The State of New Hampshire requires anyone who knows of abuse--physical, sexual,
emotional, or any other combination thereof--must report the incidences to authorities. Anyone
withholding information can be held liable for the child's safety.
PART 2
"No Violence Policy" -In order to stay in tune with the changes taking place in society and
school systems, ESLC has taken a serious approach to bullying and peer victimization. Although
children forgive easily and seem to quickly get over bullying, it can manifest itself in later years and
should be stopped early.
For the welfare of each child at the center, we will either place a child in seclusion or ask them
to leave the center when they hurt someone else or touch someone's body inappropriately while in our
care.
STATE LICENSING REQUIREMENTS:
The following items are required of child care centers which are licensed by the State of New
Hampshire:
Fire drills must be conducted once per month, at least nine times per year, at varying times of the day.
A fire drill log must be kept of the date, time, name of person conducting the drill, number of children
and adults present, exits used, problems encountered, and a plan for correcting those problems. The
log must be available for review by the fire inspector and by the licensing specialist.
Children's immunization records must be on file before a child's admission.
A physical examination record must be on file for each child within 60 days of enrollment. Health
forms must be updated according to the following schedule: for children younger than 6 years of age
(AT THE TIME OF THE EXAM), no later than 1 year and 60 days from the date of the previous
physical exam*
OR
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for children ages 6 and older (AT THE TIME OF THE EXAM), no more than 2 years and 60
days after the date of the previous physical exam*
A child care registration and emergency information form with the required information must be on
file for each child before admission.
Child care agencies shall keep a record of injuries to children, and of first aid provided. They shall
inform parents of all injuries to their child.
Written authorization from parents and from a licensed health practitioner shall be obtained prior to
administering any prescription or non-prescription medication. For prescription medication the
prescription label will serve as the health practitioner's authorization. Medications must be in their
original container, labeled with the name of the medication, dosage, name of the child, and if a
prescription, the prescription label.
The child care agency shall obtain written permission for each child for each field trip.
The state requires all children to be signed in and out each day.
FIELD TRIPS:
Field trips are planned on a regular basis. We will provide extra supervision for these excursions.
Parents are notified in advance and required to sign a permission form located on the “Upcoming
Events” board. All field trips will be announced in advance either by a memo, monthly newsletter, or by
a notice on the “Upcoming Events” board. If your schedule allows, we welcome your participation on
such trips. An extra fee may be charged for these trips.
Transportation is provided either by bus or van. Some field trips are within walking distance such as the
Conservation Center and the Two-Mile Walk.
FEEDBACK/SUGGESTIONS:
Our staff welcomes comments and suggestions to improve the quality of care of your child.
When areas of concern arise, the problem should be brought to the attention of the teacher who will
hear your suggestion and/or grievance and attempt to work through any concern. If additional
communication is necessary, the concern can be taken to the On-Site Supervisor.
Parent/family orientations are held twice per year to familiarize families with current policies and
procedures. Newsletters and parent evenings are also to keep families informed of upcoming events
and program news, including any procedure or policy changes that may be implemented. We value
and encourage input from all families.
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ENROLLMENT POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
1. Payments must be paid weekly or bi-weekly. A $5.00 fee will be added to your account for late
payments. Anyone falling two (2) weeks behind on tuition payments will not be allowed to have their
child return until payment and late fees are received, and then, only if that opening is still available.
2. If too many late charges accumulate, it will be necessary to terminate the child from the center.
3. A $50.00 mandatory, non-refundable registration is required per program (school year/summer).
4. A bounced check will be returned, not re-deposited. The amount of the check plus a $10.00 returned
check fee must then be paid by money order or cash within three (3) business days. Errors
occasionally happen; however, after the second offense, personal checks will no longer be accepted.
Money orders or cash will then be required for future payments.
5. If an account shows an unpaid tuition balance at the end of one program, your child will not be
allowed to attend another program until this balance is paid in full.
6. Our facility will be closed: New Year's Eve (3 PM closing), New Year's DayDay, Memorial Day, 4th of
July, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving Day, the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve (12 PM
closing), and Christmas Day. We will also be closed on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Columbus Day
for staff professional development training. On school vacations and floating holidays parents are
asked to sign up their children, in advance, for staffing purposes.
7. When Concord public schools are closed, so is our preschool program, however, all-day child care is
provided for those enrolled.
8. If the State of NH closes its offices due to inclement weather, we will also be closed. Closings will be
posted on WMUR.
9. If you know in advance your child will be out for any reason, for staffing purposes, please notify the
center.
10. A minimum of one (1) week's written notice must be given to the center when a child is going to be
withdrawn. A child will be considered withdrawn after three (3) consecutive days of absence if no
contact is made with the center.
11. All children are required to have a physical to attend the center and every year thereafter, for ages
2 1/2 -5 (at the time of exam). Children ages 6 and older (at the time of the exam) are required to have
a physical exam every two years. Immunization forms are required by the New Hampshire Department
of Health and are to be on file at the center on or before your child's starting date. Any significant
medical facts should be made clear to the center when enrolling, such as allergies, asthma, etc.
12. In order for us to administer any medication, a "permission to dispense medication” form is to be
filled out and signed by the parent. All medication must be in the original container.
13. The center is not set up to care for ill children. IF YOUR CHILD IS WELL ENOUGH TO ATTEND
THE CENTER, THEY ARE WELL ENOUGH TO PLAY OUTSIDE, unless we have a doctor's note. If
your child becomes ill while at the center, you (or your emergency contact person) will be contacted
and asked to pick up your child immediately.
14. The hours of the center are 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM. If your child is picked up after 5:30 PM, there will
be an additional charge of $1.00 for every minute after 5:30 PM. Consistent lateness may cause
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termination from the program.
15. If someone other than the person(s) listed as "Alternative Pick-Up" will be picking up your child, it is
mandatory that a written note or phone call be made that day. Otherwise, for the child's safety, he/she
will not be allowed to leave. Persons authorized to pick up your child must be at least 15 years old.
16. Personal toys that the child is responsible for may be brought to the center. Please do not bring
any expensive or valuable toys or items. The center is not responsible for lost, stolen, or broken
personal items. Also please refrain from bringing in toys from home that suggest violence such as
guns, knives, and action figures that encourage fighting.
17. In case of legal separation or divorce, parents must have on file a custodial agreement so that no
harassment can be made concerning the liability of a child's departure and with whom.
18. No staff person will represent or speak on behalf of any parent or child enrolled in the center unless
subpoenaed to the court.
19. "No Violence Policy" -In order to stay in tune with the changes taking place in society and school
systems, ESLC has taken a serious approach to bullying and peer victimization.
Although children forgive easily and seem to quickly get over bullying, it can manifest itself in later
years and should be stopped early.
For the welfare of each child at the center, we will either place a child in seclusion or ask them to leave
the center when they hurt someone else or touch someone's body inappropriately while in our care.
20. All registration forms must be completed and on file before your child’s first day at the center. This
includes Individual Educations Plan’s, Family Education Plan’s, and any other medical or
developmental documents.
21. East Side Learning Center does not discriminate against any individual on the grounds of race,
creed, color, sex, or national origin.
22. ESLC will work with families and children with IEP’s and FEP’s. However, if we are unable to meet
the developmental needs of your child we will recommend alternate care. All children and families
enrolled in the center are subject to a 30 probation period. Please refer to “Termination of Care by the
Program”.
23. Smoking is not allowed anywhere on the premises.
24. Personal cell phone use by students is not permitted.
Please Note:
Some information contained within this handbook was taken from the New Hampshire Child
Care Program Licensing Rules and the NHDHHS Guide to Early Childhood Careers.
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ESLC AFTER SCHOOL CLUB LIST
Art: will encourage self-expression and creativity through drawing, painting, designing and
various forms of artistic media.
Baking: encourages development of math and science skills. Students will bake sweets, treats,
breads, and pastries to eat and/or sell at our school store.
Bankers: this club will help us to keep track of our “East Side” dollars, debits and credits.
It will also encourage and strengthen our math skills.
Bowling: with the cooperation of Boutwell’s Bowling, and depending on the students interest,
each group will have an opportunity to bowl once per week for five weeks.
Brain Teasers: This club offers various types games to challenge your brain. Games include:
Sudoku, Master Mind, Rubik’s cubes.
Builders: encourages cooperation, problem solving and architectural skills using a large variety
of building materials.
Bulletin Board: the after-schoolers will design and create some of the bulletin boards displayed
throughout the center.
Card Sharks: a competitive club that encourages socialization and teaches a number of card
games.
Collectors: this club allows the after-schoolers to share their interests by sharing their
collections with others.
Community Service: students will make a variety of items to be delivered by visiting nurses to
cheer up others in our community.
Cooking: similar to baking club, students will learn about different ingredients and experiment
with new recipes. The food they cook will be sold in the school store.
Drama: the students will be introduced to theater. They will learn how to memorize lines, create
props and costumes and perform a production.
Enrichment: These clubs provide the opportunity for more in depth study and learning of new
skills.
Fort: students may build forts in our wooded area using natural found materials.
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Games: includes and endless variety of games. This club includes chess, checkers, mancala, and
many more.
Geography: students will learn about faraway places, people, customs, cultures and languages to
encourage them to become acquainted with the world in which they live
Heritage: students will have the opportunity to learn about each other’s family heritage,
traditions and cultures.
Homework: the after-schoolers can get a head start on homework with extra help from our
staff. Homework club participants will receive East Side dollars that can be redeemed at
our store.
Jewelry: implementing design concepts while making jewelry, using a variety of materials and
tools, to wear or give as gifts.
Lego Mania: students construct with Lego’s and have various Lego sculpting competitions.
Marketing: managing ESLC’s store where our East Side dollars can be spent. The students will
be responsible for ordering, selling and taking inventory of merchandise.
Math Whiz: competitions of “Krypto” and other math challenge games.
Music: listening and learning about different types of music, composers and instruments. This
club will also provide opportunity for school band members to practice their instruments.
Nature: nature walks and scavenger hunts will take place while learning to identify different
types of plants, rocks, and trees.
Newspaper: Students will learn journalism skills while looking for stories and writing about
events occurring at the center.
Puppetry: students create different types of puppets to use in performances.
Puzzle Mania: students will team up and challenge each other in puzzle building competitions.
Quiz Whiz: we will mimic various game shows and test our knowledge of trivia.
Reading: this club will stimulate us to read more and experience new authors and titles.
We will also create story sketches, boxes and portfolios of various types of literature and
authors.
Science: testing and recording results of experiments and inventions.
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Scrapbook: designing and creating individual scrapbooks that reflect student’s interests.
Sculptors: sculpting and creating objects from modeling materials such as clay, dough,
Fimo, and papier mache.
Snack Attack: Make & take snacks designed to be quick to make and fun to eat.
Sports: a physical and competitive club that allows us to learn good sportsmanship skills and
teamwork.
Two mile walk: Students walk to and from the Quality Cash Market. They may bring $1 or $2 to
spend.
Wood working: allows experience with hammers, nails, screw drivers, and other basic hand
tools to construct simple wooden structures. Students learn basic safely skills and how to
use tools properly. Wood working club may include trips to Home Depot or Lowe’s.
Writers: encourages self-expression and creativity as they put their thoughts, feelings and
ideas on paper.
***Each club will give the opportunity to earn ESLC dollars or will have a fee for participating.
Money earned can be saved or spent bi-weekly at the ESLC school-age program store.
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He-C 4002.20 Administration and Storage of Medicine
(a) The department shall not require programs to administer medication.
(b) Child care personnel shall obtain signed dated, written, authorization and instructions for
administration of prescription or non prescription medication from the child’s parent, prior to
administering any medication to a child.
(c) Except as required under (d) below, child care personnel shall administer non prescription
medication in accordance with the printed instructions of the manufacturer.
(d) When no manufacturer’s instructions are available for a specific child’s age, non
prescription medication shall be administered in accordance with:
(1) Signed, dated, written instructions from the child’s parent which includes a statement
that the dosage instructions have been reviewed with the child’s licensed health
practitioner and are consistent with the health practitioner’s recommendations: or
(2) Signed, dated, and written instructions from the child’s licensed health practitioner
regarding the appropriate dosage for that child.
(e) When any child requires maintenance medication(s) which are to be administered on an
ongoing basis, the written parental authorization specified in (b) above shall be updated at
least every 6 months.
(f) Child care personnel shall not administer medication unless it is in the original container.
(g) Child care personnel shall label any non prescription medication provided by a parent for
their child with their child’s first and last name and the date the medication was provided by
parents;
(h) Programs that choose to keep a supply of non prescription medication, including but not
limited to Children’s Tylenol, shall insure that child care personnel administer the medication
in accordance with (b) through (f) above.
(i) Child care personnel shall administer prescription medication, when authorized by parents
in accordance with (b) above, only as prescribed by a licensed health practitioner for that
particular child.
(j) The department shall accept the prescription label, attached to the prescription container as
the written order of a licensed health practitioner.
(k) Child care personnel shall administer prescription medication authorized by parents in
accordance with (b) above, only if the prescription label is attached to the original container.
(l) The center director, family child care provider or his/her designee shall obtain the written
order of a licensed health practitioner prior to administering a sample prescription
medication which does not have a prescription label attached.
(m) Child care personnel shall:
(1) Check the expiration date of all medication to ensure that expired medication is not
administered; and
(2) Return to parents or discard any expired medication.
(n) The family child care provider, center director, or designee shall supervise the
administration, records, and control of all medications.
(o) Child care personnel shall store all medications in accordance with manufacturer or
pharmacist’s instructions for storage and in a location not accessible to children.
(p) The staff person responsible for administering medication shall:
(1) Keep a written record of each dose of medication administered; and
(2) Sign and date the medication administration record.
The center director or designee shall return all medications provided by parents for a specific
child to that child’s parents, when the dates of parental authorization to administer the
medication have expired.
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IDEAS FOR THE LUNCH BOX
IT IS IMPORTANT TO OFFER HEALTHY MEALS AND SNACK FOODS TO CHILDREN
SANDWICHES:
TUNA FISH
EGG SALAD
CHICKEN SALAD
HAM AND CHEESE
TURKEY AND CHEESE
PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY
CHEESE SANWICH
HUMUS AND PITA BREAD
SANDWICHES CAN BE MADE WITH WHITE BREAD, WHEAT BREAD, PITA POCKETS, FRENCH BREAD, BAGELS, ENGLISH
MUFFINS, ROLLS OR PLAIN BREAD CUT INTO A SHAPE (HEART, STAR, TRIANGLES…)
SOMETIMES CHILDREN ENJOY HELPING TO MAKE THEIR OWN LUNCH (IF YOU HAVE THE TIME), OR YOU COULD SEND
IN A CONTAINER WITH CRACKERS OR BREAD AND SOME SLICED HAM AND CHEESE. YOUR CHILD COULD ASSEMBLE
IT HIM/HERSELF AT THE LUNCH TABLE, OR EAT IT SEPARATELY. ROLL UP THE SLICED MEATS AND ADD CHUNKS OF
CHEESE. SOME CHILDREN ENJOY HAVING VEGETABLES SUCH AS LETTUCE, TOMATOES OR SPROUTS TO ADD TO
THEIR SANDWICHES.
FRUITS AND VEGETABLES:
FOR A CHANGE, YOU CAN SEND A SMALL CONTAINER OF YOGURT (PLAIN OR FLAVORED), APPLESAUCE, OR PUDDING
FOR DIPPING FRUIT OR INCLUDE COTTAGE CHEESE, SALAD DRESSING OR PREPARED DIP FOR DIPPING
VEGETABLES.
BANANAS
APPLES
ORANGES
TANGERINES
GRAPES (SLICED TO HALF SIZE)
RAISINS AND OTHER DRIED FRUIT
CANTALOUPE
WATERMELON
PINEAPPLE
APPLESAUCE
KIWI
TRY MAKING A SMALL FRUIT
SALAD BY MIXING A FEW
DIFFERENT FRUITS
CARROTS
CUCUMBERS
PEPPERS (YOU’D BE SURPRISED)
TOMATO WEDGES
CELERY WITH CREAM CHEESE/PEANUT BUTTER
TOSSED SALAD
CAULIFLOWER
BROCCOLI
PEA PODS
GREEN BEANS
WARM LUNCH IDEAS:
IF YOUR CHILD CARE PROGRAM HAS A MICROWAVE OR STOVE AND THE TIME TO HEAT FOOD ITEMS FOR CHILDREN,
YOU COULD TRY SENDING AN ICE PACK WITH LAST NIGHT’S LEFTOVERS.
SOUP WITH GOLDFISH OR OYSTER CRACKERS
TACOS, BURRITOS
BAKED BEANS
PIZZA
CHICKEN & RICE WITH GRAVY AND A STUFFING TOPPING
MACARONI & CHEESE (TRY ADDING PEAS, BROCCOLI, OR HAM)
PASTA WITH SAUCE OR MEATBALLS
(SOMETIMES YOU CAN SNEAK A VEGETABLE INTO A SAUCE LIKE PEAS, CORN, SHREDDED CARROTS OR CHICK PEAS)
DESSERTS:
YOU CAN TEACH CHILDREN AT AN EARLY AGE ABOUT HEALTHY CHOICES AND FOODS THAT HELP US GROW.
YOGURT
PUDDING (HOMEMADE)
MUFFINS
COOKIES (LOW SUGAR-LIKE ANIMAL OR GRAHAM CRACKERS, OR OATMEAL WITH RAISINS)
GRANOLA BARS
FRUIT BREADS (BANANA BREAD, APPLE, ZUCCHINI, PUMPKIN, OR SQUASH BREAD)
TRAIL MIXES ARE FUN TO MAKE WITH CHILDREN SCOOPING, POURING, AND MIXING DRY CEREAL, SEEDS, NUTS,
RAISINS, AND PRETZELS OR GOLDFISH OR OYSTER CRACKERS.
BEVERAGES:
MILK (LOW FAT FOR CHILDREN OLDER THAN 2 YEARS)
UNSWEETENED FRUIT JUICES (100% JUICE)
TOMATO OR V8 JUICE
WATER
AVOID PUNCHES, DRINKS, ADES AND NECTARS BECAUSE THY ARE MOSTLY WATER AND SUGAR.
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HANDBOOK CONTRACT
I ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF THE EAST SIDE LEARNING CENTER PARENT
HANDBOOK. I HAVE READ AND COMPLETELY UNDERSTAND ITS CONTENTS AND AGREE TO
ABIDE THEM FULLY.
_____________________
Date
______________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
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EAST SIDE LEARNING CENTER
164 East Side Drive
Concord, NH 03301
eslcoffice@comcast.net
(603)224-2717
WITHDRAWAL NOTIFICATION FORM
____________________________
Name of Student(s)
_____________________________
Date of Request
Please be advised that I/we am/are withdrawing my/our child(ren) from East Side
Learning Center effective ___________________________.
____________________________
Parent/Guardian(s) Signature
___________________________
Date of Request
Approved by: __________________________
On Site Supervisor
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________________________
Approval Date