SonShine Kids Early Education Parent Handbook

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Vision

SonShine Kids Early Education is dedicated to nurturing a love of learning in a Christ-centered environment. We prepare children for kindergarten by emphasizing social, academic, emotional, and spiritual development. We take pride in being a place where the “Son” shines every day!

Philosophy

We believe that play is essential to a child’s development and that early experiences enrich future growth. Children are given opportunities to play, share, and learn in a safe, loving Christian environment that fosters acceptance, imagination, and exploration. Each child is respected as a unique individual with the capacity to learn in their own way.

Goals

Our program offers a variety of activities that support all areas of development in a home-like setting. We aim to:

• Provide a nurturing and safe environment

• Respect and appreciate each child and family

• Offer age-appropriate materials and engaging learning experiences

• Encourage physical development through indoor/outdoor play

• Foster creativity through music, art, and literature

• Promote language development through stories, games, and conversation

• Partner with parents through regular updates and conferences

• Support wise decision-making by offering choices

• Maintain open communication with families

• Track developmental progress quarterly using ASQ-3 and ASQ:SE-2

• Share community resources and referrals as needed

About My Family

I was born and raised in Michigan and have worked with children since 1987. I’ve taught Sunday School, worked in childcare centers, and have been a licensed home daycare provider since 2008. I have had child care, in my home, since 2006. I hold an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education. My husband, Mark, is a chaplain and often joins us for outings and activities.

Curriculum

Our curriculum is designed to prepare children for kindergarten through developmentally appropriate practices. Activities are tailored to each child’s age and abilities, with a focus on process over product. Prayer is included before meals, and we strive to reflect Christ’s love in all we do.

Hours of Operation

Open Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Closed on weekends and the following holidays:
New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the day after, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Additional closures: Christmas break, one week in June, first Friday and third Monday of each month.
Substitute care is provided by my husband when needed.

Required Forms

Before enrollment, the following forms must be completed:

• Contract

• Child Information Card

• Child In Care Statement

• Food Program Paperwork

• Over-the-Counter Medication Form

• Medication Consent (if needed)

• Handbook Acknowledgement

• Media Release

Waiting List

When enrollment is full, children may be placed on a waiting list. Priority is given to families with currently enrolled children.

Termination of Care

Care may be terminated for:

• Non-payment

• Lack of cooperation

• Abuse or harmful behavior

• Non-compliance with policies

• Providing false information

Families are asked to give a two-week notice and pay for the final period. Expulsion or suspension is a last resort.

Payment and Fees

• $30 per day for full time.  Siblings are $20 each.      
  Full time = 3-5 days weekly 

• Part time/drop in = $6 per hour
  Part time =  1-2 days weekly or less than 4 hours daily

• Absence fee: $20/day ($5 for siblings)

• Returned check fee: $30

• Late payment fee: $20/day
  Payments are due by Friday at 6:00 PM. Families on subsidy are responsible for uncovered co-pay amounts.

Medical Policies

Medications may be administered with proper documentation.
Please avoid bringing Benadryl, Penicillin/Amoxicillin, or Macrolides due to severe allergies.
Over-the-counter medications require written consent updated annually.

Communicable Diseases

Children must be symptom-free for 72 hours before returning.
Symptoms include: fever, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, cough, etc.
Sick children must be picked up within two hours.
Backup care should be arranged in advance.

Reoccurring Medical Issues

Please inform us of any chronic conditions.
Refer to the communicable disease policy for guidance.
Note: Provider has severe allergies to specific medications.

Naps/Rest Period

Children rest after lunch.
Quiet time is one hour, followed by quiet activities.
Comfort items may be brought for rest time.

Field Trips/Car Seats

Car seats must be provided by parents.
Permission slips are required for all field trips.

Clothing

Children should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing.
Provide extra clothes, sunscreen, and proper footwear.
Girls should wear leggings or shorts under dresses.

Toys & Electronics

Toys from home are only allowed on special days or for comfort during rest.
Unapproved items will be stored in cubbies.

Potty Training

We support potty training in partnership with parents.
Easy-to-remove clothing and extra changes are required.

Holidays/Birthdays

We celebrate major holidays (excluding Halloween) and children’s birthdays.
Treats are welcome with allergy checks.
Parents may join activities.

Drop-off/Pick-up

Children are only released to authorized individuals.
ID is required for unfamiliar persons.
If a pickup person appears impaired, alternate arrangements will be made.
Court orders must be provided in writing.

TV & Video Games

Limited screen time is allowed.
School-age children may bring tablets with age-appropriate content.
All usage is monitored.

Meals

We participate in the ACD Food Program and provide balanced meals.
Outside food is not allowed without prior approval.

Pets

We have four bearded dragons.
Children learn pet care and safety under supervision.
Interaction is limited to special days.

Supplies to Be Provided by Parents

• Change of clothes

• Sunscreen

• Swimsuit

• Diapers/Pull-ups

• Wipes

• Bottles

• Pacifiers

• Diaper cream

• Signed medication forms

Contract Notice

The signed contract is a legal agreement.
Please read thoroughly and understand your obligations.
By signing, you accept all terms and responsibilities outlined.