Muskoka Home Child Care Agency Family Handbook

Program Philosophy

We see children through a lens of being rich in potential as they navigate their first years of life. Children often surprise the world with how capable and competent they are, and we like to propel these talents by giving them rich experiences and space to play to allow their natural curiosities to take flight.

We believe deeply in supporting our team to discover their maximum potential. Doing this requires meeting our providers, families and children where they are on their learning path in order to support their needs and enhance their understandings. Open, respectful and strength-based communication is key to our successful collaboration. 

The Child Care and Early Years Act and the document How Does Learning Happen? guide our philosophy in all of our interactions with children, families, Providers and staff.

Meet the Team

Children:

The children in our care are the heart and soul of the Agency. As part of our team, we feel that a child-led approach to learning is essential. When children feel they are creators of their experiences and worlds, they become lifelong learners.

Providers:

Our Providers bring creativity, zest and exceptionality to the Agency. Each one is unique with their own set of expertise, beliefs and skills. They are independent business owners who have agreed and signed a Service Agreement with our Agency to deliver quality care guided by our Policies and Procedures.

Families:

You've joined a community when you signed up with the MHCCA. We value your input and want to always keep the lines of communication open and flowing. Share your families’ unique needs and interests. Let us work together collaboratively and courteously.

Community:

When children feel a sense of community, they thrive now and in later life. Building these connections at an early age can shape their sense of self. We welcome connections with community members and the natural world around us.

Home Visitors:

The Home Visitors are Early Childhood Educators who help to guide and support the Provider’s on their learning journey. They offer assistance to families and practice their skills by considering all they do is in the best interest of the children.  

Manager:

The MHCCA Manager is an inspirational leader. The manager oversees the entirety of the programming and offers guidance, support and expertise.

Case Aide:

The Case Aide assists with child registrations, technology needs, administrative matters, and odds and ends jobs.

Environment:

The environment is the third teacher. This means that with intentional planning, the set up of an environment, in this case the Provider’s Homes, acts as an engaging place to follow ones interest in order to make the learning meaningful and authentic. 

Our Why

It is important to know what you do and how you do it, but to feel fulfilled, passionate and like your life is on a meaningful trajectory, why you do what you do must be at the forefront of your thoughts. We asked our Providers “What is Your Why?” and this wordle shows their response.

As you can see, providing caring environments that support and encourage a connection to our natural world is important to our Providers. Research shows how significant it is for physical, spiritual and mental health to not only get outdoors, but to enjoy and embrace the experience. This helps our young citizens learn to be stewards of nature; our Providers value and embrace this knowledge.

As a home away from home, our Providers want your child to feel safe, loved and joyful. Our Providers feel it is important to allow children to grow and flourish in an environment that is child-led, explorative and enriched.

Their passion to help others and create a better world is what elevates this team to go above and beyond.

There’s no greater thing you can do with your life and your work than follow your passions – in a way that serves the world and you. ~ Richard Branson

What Does Quality Mean to MHCCA?

At the MHCCA, we have come to understand that quality is beyond something that can be described, defined and measured; it is something that must be felt and experienced.

When you choose the child care home and Provider that is right for you, your family and your child, a sense of contentment, comfort and community should flood over you.

Every child needs to be loved in gigantic quantities and with unbelievable quality. ~ Daniel Mackler

As an Agency, we are entrusted to find the right people to join the team. It takes time and commitment to see the process out and an ongoing desire to learn is essential to future success. The Early Childhood Education field is a growing body of science based in brain development and therefore learning about best practices and new research is what we aim to deliver.

What Does Quality Feel Like?
When we asked our Providers what quality feels like, they provided the response found in the wordle.

Following are a list of requirements set out by our Agency:

• Initial Interview
• Overview of responsibilities associated with becoming an Independent Business Owner
• Completion of a Health and Safety Inspection (annually)
• Reference Checks conducted
• Collecting: CAS checks, Criminal Reference Checks with a Vulnerable Sector Screening, medical certificates, immunizations records, valid home and car insurance, rabies vaccines for necessary pets
• Fire Inspection completed and floor plan posted
• Clear or good standing status of registered bodies: The College of Early Childhood Educators, the Ontario College of Teachers, and the Registry of Child Care Violations
• Ensuring that First Aid Training is up-to-date and that first aid kits are fully equipped
• Policies and Procedures reviewed (annually)
• How Does Learning Happen? training
• Commitment to a set amount of professional learning trainings
• Posted menu plans and schedules for families

Collection of necessary documents above for Back-Up Providers, Residence of the Home over 18, Volunteers and Students. 

Having the Agency requirements are important to help ensure that children’s safety and well-being are at the forefront of our thoughts, but we want to go beyond these measures to ensure that we are meeting the holistic needs of our Providers, families and children. Let us introduce you to some of the ways we do so.

The most valuable resource that all teachers have is each other. Without collaboration our growth is limited to our own perspective. ~ Robert John Meehan

A mind when stretched by a new idea never regains its original dimensions.  ~ Anonymous

How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years: How Does Learning Happen? (HDLH) helps to drive our vision of child care. It recognizes children, families and educators as essential to the role of developing positive learning outcomes. It focuses on the four foundations of learning: Belonging, Engagement, Expression and Well-Being. When these foundations are valued and fostered, children thrive.

Program Statement

Children are at the core of why we do what we do and how we feel about quality.  Our program statement is our Agency's guiding light. It vibrates with enthusiasm and highlights our core values and best practices. We invite you to review the full document in Appendix A. 

MHCCA Waitlist

What to Discuss with your Provider

Here are some suggestions we have for you and your Provider to discuss in order to devise a plan that works for you and your child as well as the Provider and her/his program.

• Transition schedule. Consider making an integration schedule with your Provider. A slower transition can give your child more confidence and comfort.
• Nap Routine. Consider timing of naps, noise machines, comfort items, soothing techniques.
• Meal Routines. Consider variety of foods, texture, colour and taste. Discuss what meal times look like in terms of physical space and interactions.
• Toileting Routines. Consistency is best with many things and this is no different. Try to get on the same routine.
• Soothing Techniques. Does your child practice any self-regulation skills? Do they have an item of comfort?
• Likes and Dislikes. What does your child enjoy? Do they have a favourite character, song or game?

What to Bring to Care

Ensuring that your child has everything they will need for care will help to unburden your mind and ease any ambiguity.

We recommend the following to be packed and left at your Provider’s home. Please remember to label all items brought into the home.  

• Play clothes. Consider the season and ensure that there is at least two changes of appropriate clothing.
• Diapers, diaper cream, wipes. At least enough for 2 weeks.
• A light blanket to be used for naptime.
• In the Spring/Summer: sunscreen, bug spray, a sunhat and if possible, a bug jacket.
• In the Fall/Winter: extra toque, mitts, socks and if possible: jacket, snow pants and boots.

We understand that outdoor play is essential to children’s connection with nature, spirituality and overall well-being. When leaving your home for the day, please do your best to ensure that your child is dressed for the weather.

What a mess...yes! We want children to feel fully engrossed in their learning, which means they will get messy and dirty. They are exploring different textures, smells, sounds and sights. Being hands on helps to build their brains and strengthen their understandings. Please be prepared to have your child coming home messy, fulfilled and developing new skills. 

Let them explore in the mud and build dens with boxes. Let them experiment with paint and imagine all day, for a child learns the most when they are allowed to play. ~ Twinklcares

Consider a Transition Schedule

If possible, try to work out a transition schedule with your Provider. The intention is to establish a sense of belonging and comfort for your child as they get to know the program, their peers and their new caregiver. It will also help you and your Provider get to know each other and you will be able to practice your new routine. It will look considerably different for each unique child, family and Provider but the benefits of a planned transition can certainly have a positive impact. 

How to Prepare Your Child

Prior to the First Day:

1. Have confidence in your decision and always speak positively and enthusiastically about your Provider and the Program when your child is present.
2. Remind your child about things they enjoyed (or you believe they would enjoy) when they went for the interview or tour.
3. Start practicing successful strategies for your child at home. For example, try to have them eat snack at the table, encourage them to walk instead of being held, and have them practice self-soothing techniques to fall asleep. Chat with your Provider, to see if there are any specific strategies that they can suggest.

Discuss a plan with your Provider for the first day. If your child really enjoys playdoh, mention this to them. Our Providers want to make this transition as successful as possible too and they could ensure that playdoh is available and displayed in an inviting way upon entering the home.

Coming to Care

1. Children notice parent’s emotional cues. Try your best to keep smiling and be positive.
2. Inform your Provider of your child’s evening and morning. For example, they had little sleep but they ate well this morning.
3. Remind your child what time of the day you will pick them up. (After everyone is finished eating lunch, after outdoor time, etc.) It is very important to follow through with this as well.
4. Be confident and calm when you go to leave. Give them a hug and kiss and leave. Lingering for that last two, three or four hugs can extend the upset. Also, no sneaking out. Keeping your child’s trust is crucial.
5. Be consistent.

Communication and Changes

Children are unique, which makes you the expert on your child and their individual needs. Having a relationship that is built on trust and mutual respect creates a foundation for open and authentic communication and collaboration.

Building relationships in not about transactions – it’s about connections. ~ Michelle Tilis Lederman

We encourage you to make the time to chat with your Provider daily. Topics may include:

• How your child slept, what they ate and their current emotional state. This will give your Provider some perspective of their interactions and needs.
• If there are any new things, events or circumstances in their lives (a move, a pet, a separation, etc.). Incorporating your changing circumstances in the program can assist your child with understanding their situation and the feelings associated with it. For example, if your child is going to be a big brother, our Provider’s may add a doll and cradle to the playroom to assist your child with their upcoming role, allowing them time to play and act out their feelings, desires and understandings of the approaching situation.   
• Things you’re working on at home, both successes and challenges such as potty training, dressing independently or talking. Designing a plan with your Provider can create a smoother and more consistent approach, which ultimately will help your child feel more comfortable and confident as they tackle these big tasks.

Please remember to update your Provider and the Agency if any changes occur, in relation to your child’s Registration Package. Specifically:

• Allergies
• Special Needs or Exceptions
• Medical Conditions
• Moving to a new address
• Separation (specifically as it relates to custody arrangements and payments)
• Phone number change

Twice a year, you will be asked to participate in a Family Survey. We value your advice and insights and ask that you share your constructive feedback with us. These findings could directly affect the trajectory of the Muskoka Home Child Care Agency.

Navigating through an awkward topic or challenging conversation can be difficult. Ideally, we hope to have established a foundation of respect and trust where all parties can feel safe to voice their needs and concerns. The Home Visitor team is happy to assist families in co-constructing solutions with the Agency or Providers. 

Appendix B is our Policy and Procedure on Parent Issues and Concerns. 

Children are individually unique with their own perspectives, ideas and thoughts. We understand that when we set children up for success they are capable and competent. Creating this basis involves assembling a medley of information to meet the best outcomes.

1. Providers work to establish a positive and authentic relationship with your child. This takes time, consistency and a view of the child as uniquely wonderful.
2. Families are the experts on their children, so we look to you to provide insights into what works for your child at home and the different ideas you’ve tried.
3. Then we turn to the best practices in the field of Early Childhood Education. There has been a great deal of research on the topic of successful interactions based in science as it relates to the brain. 
4. Considering all the factors, we work as a team to develop the best plan for your child’s unique needs and circumstances.

Some of the ideas that we suggest are found in Appendix C, Best Practices for Successful Interactions.

Behaviour is a function of communication. It’s not good or bad. ~ Unknown

Financial Arrangements

As of November 1, 2022, the Muskoka Home Child Care Agency has opted in, to implement the Canada Wide Early Learning Child Care Plan, making quality child care more affordable, accessible and inclusive. Please see the District of Muskoka website for more information.

As an Agency-Placed Family, all financial arrangements are communicated to and from the Agency. If you have an invoice question or concern, we encourage you to reach out to the finance department. Receipts will be provided to every family who has paid for Child Care services through the year in February of each year for the previous year. The Rates are found in Appendix D.

As part of the Agency, we require that families consent to a pre-authorized debit format to align with our financial program capabilities. Payments will be made on a bi-weekly schedule.

A deposit equal to two weeks of care is required and will be held in trust. The deposit will then be applied to the final bill.

The Family Contract will be completed during the registration process and should be updated to reflect any changes to the schedule that occur over time.

Hardships and financial strain can happen to anyone. If you have accumulated overdue payments, we ask that you connect with the financial department in order to develop a plan. When a family is behind more than 15 days, a past due notice will be sent. When a plan has not been devised and agreed upon, fees that remain unpaid by 30 days after receipt of invoice will be referred to collections and the child will be discharged from care. 

Two Weeks Written Notice

We understand that circumstances change and there will come a time when you will no longer need care for your child. As this time approaches, we ask that you reach out to the Agency with two weeks written notice homechildcare@muskoka.on.ca. This time will help your Provider prepare your child for the departure. It also allows the Agency inform the finance department to apply your deposit and it will give your Provider some time to fill the vacant space.  

In the event that no notice was provided, the family will continue to be billed as per the current Family Contract until two weeks has passed from the last day of care to assist in supporting our Providers. 

Fee Subsidy

If eligible for the Fee Subsidy Program, you may be able to have a portion or all of your child care fees paid for by the District Municipality of Muskoka. Subsidy is based on a few factors including income levels and can be accessed when families are working, attending school or have special family circumstances as identified by a third party agency. We encourage all families to visit the website to do a quick pre-eligibility calculation using the Child Care Subsidy Calculator.

Statutory Holidays

The following statutory holidays do not required payment unless your child attends care:

• New Years
• Family Day
• Good Friday
• Easter Monday
• Victoria Day
• Canada Day
• Civic Holiday
• Labour Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas
• Boxing Day

As independent business owners, our Providers have the option to open or close during these days and we recommend that you communicate with them if you require care on these dates.

One exceptionality to the above is during our extended District administration office closure between Christmas and New Years.  These dates will be provided to families by November 1st of each year.  Families are required to notify the Agency prior to December 1st and confirm they require care during this closure. This will allow the Agency to assign staff coverage in case of a serious occurrence or other emergency.  Unless approval has been granted prior to December 1st all Providers will be closed during the closure.

Attendance

Ensuring your child’s safe arrival and departure is vital. Everyday your child will be signed into the program by either yourself or your child care provider. You have the opportunity to review your child’s arrival and departure time to ensure accuracy. If you disagree with the attendance records, please discuss with your Provider and/or Home Visitor. 

Allotment Days

Becoming a family with the Agency has many perks and one is that you are allotted a certain number of days to be away throughout the year as you see fit. We welcome you to calculate your allotment days by using the information from your Family Contract and the chart in Appendix E. Allotment days will automatically be billed for any sick days, vacation or time away unless otherwise specified. Please remember that once you run out of allotment days, you will be invoiced at your usual rate.  The allotment days renew every January.

Continue to communicate clearly with your Provider about when your child will not be present. Your Provider cares about you and your family and they may become concerned if you don’t arrive for a scheduled day. Our Providers also put a lot of time and energy into preparing for their day including consumable materials and menu items. When possible, letting them know in advance of days your child will be away will help them plan accordingly.

The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place. ~ George Bernard Shaw

In the event that a child consecutively misses days without the Provider being informed, all attempts will be made by the Provider and Home Visitors to ensure that the child and family is ok. If 10 consecutive days pass without any contact, termination of the child care space will unfortunately occur.

Out of Reach

All flammable materials, medical supplies, bleach, detergents, insecticides, plastic bags, firearms, and all other hazardous materials are stored out of reach of children. 

Capacity

Home capacity is a serious issue that must be followed in accordance with the Child Care and Early Years Act guidelines. No more than six (6) children may be in care at any one time, including the Provider’s own children under the age of four. After September 1 in a calendar year, any of the Provider’s own children who will turn the age of four in that year do not have to be counted in the total number of children at a premise.  Of the total number of children in care, including the Provider’s own children, no more than three (3) children may be under the age of two (2).

Smoking and Vaping

Smoking and vaping any substances or having paraphernal accessible to children during hours of operation is strictly prohibited. This includes during pick up and drop off for Providers and families alike.

Standing Bodies of Water

Drowning can be a silent and quick tragedy. The Ministry of Education has clear rules indicating that no child is to have access to any standing or recreational bodies of water on the property during child care hours which we enforce diligently. This includes swimming pools, kiddie pools, hot tubs, lakes, beaches, ponds, etc. Only children over the age of 6 may be able to go to public beaches or regulated pools with a Provider under specific circumstances. Please feel free to contact your Provider or a Home Visitor for any clarification.

Water Play

We encourage children to engage in water play activities including the use of splash pads, sprinklers, hoses and water tables under the close supervision of the Home Child Care Provider. During this time, children are able to develop gross and fine-motor skills, exercise their problem solving abilities, further their language development, engage in social-emotional learning and enhance their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematic) learning.

Anaphylactic Allergies - For all Families

As a parent of a child with life threatening allergies, sending your child to care, can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety. As parents of children who don’t have life threatening allergies, we can help ease that concern by being respectful, considerate and mindful of the known allergy. If there is a child or adult in your child care program with a severe allergy, please make the following a priority:

• Be mindful not to bring the known allergy into the home at any time.
• Avoid exposure to the known allergy prior to drop off.
• Maintain good hygienic practices prior to care such as handwashing.
• Be proactive and read labels. If you have a celebration and you would like to provide something, read the labels carefully including whether or not it says “Processed in a factory” or “May contain.” Ideally, if there is a symbol such as “peanut free” that’s the best choice. Avoid homemade foods due to the possibility of cross contamination.

Talk with your child about allergies. Help them to understand what it is and how your child can be a thoughtful friend.

Individual Support Plans

We want to ensure that every child has equal opportunity to participate in the program in a meaningful way to them. This means that sometimes, an Individual Support Plan (ISP) is needed. A special need is defined as any condition, diagnosis or special circumstance that may affect a child’s ability to fully participate in a program (i.e.: speech delays, feeding tubes, broken arm, etc.). If your child requires a plan, we will need to have this in place before they begin care or upon the situation being known. 

You will be provided with a form to be completed in conjunction with the child (if appropriate) and any professionals working with your child (Occupational Therapist, Physician, Resource Teacher, etc.). The plan will identify any supports required for your child and how the Provider is to use those supports to meet the child’s needs in order to fully integrate them into the program. Any questions regarding completing the ISP can be directed to the Home Visitors. A consent form will be provided to share information with community partners.

When your Child is Ill

It is not uncommon for children to be sick while enrolled in a child care program. Colds and ear infections are frequent as well as other common childhood illnesses. Beyond diligent disinfecting practices and handwashing, children are still susceptible to illnesses. Children are becoming exposed to more people and inadvertently more germs. They are building their immune systems and the good news is that they will likely have less illnesses in the early years of school, as opposed to their peers who didn’t attend a child care program.

Although children are frequently ill, we want to do our part as caregivers to reduce the spread as best as possible. Remember to think of your Provider as a teacher and not a nurse. Although they often wear many hats, it’s important to understand that they are here to care for your child and help them grow and learn. They are not equipped to provide health care to your child.

If your child is experiencing the following, please keep them home until they have been symptom free for 24 hours:

• a fever (38⁰ C or 100.4⁰F or higher)
• Diarrhea (2 or more loose or liquid stools)
• An unexplained rash

Additionally, the following chart outlines other common childhood illnesses or concerns and the length of time exclusion is required. 

It’s important to understand that if your child is not well enough to participate in the adventures of the day without modification, they should remain home. Remember that you do have absent days for each year.

If your child becomes ill over the course of the day, your Provider will contact you to arrange for an immediate pick-up. We understand that working in Muskoka can entail being hours from your Providers home. In these circumstances, we suggest contacting your Emergency Contact person for assistance.

If your child is moderately ill, (e.g. headache, mild cough/cold, recuperating from surgery, etc.) and you would like them to attend care, it is important to have an open dialogue with your Provider. Please respect your Provider’s choice whether or not to provide care, after considering your child’s symptoms and ability to participate in the program.

Accident/Injury and Incident Report

As children develop gross and fine motor abilities and begin to explore their limits and environment in a healthy way, sometimes accidents, injuries and incidences happen. It is important to monitor and track these occurrences to maintain a running record of the health, safety and well-being of each child. Please note, that if your child has an accident/injury or incident, you will be notified and asked to sign an acknowledgement page of the situation. 

Emergency Treatment

At the MHCCA, we do our best to ensure your child’s safety. In the event of an emergency, your Provider will inform you immediately. If your child has been injured, your Provider may opt to enlist the aid of Emergency Services. Any cost arising from this (e.g. ambulance fee) will be directed to the family.

Immunizations

Immunizations should be in line with the Canadian Immunization Guide. In the event that a family does not vaccinate their child for any reason, a signed affidavit of Conscience or Religious Belief is required. As your child receives new vaccinations, please provide the Home Visitor with a copy of the new record as soon as your child’s immunization record has been updated.

Medication

You are encouraged to administer drugs or medications to your children at home if this can be done without affecting your child’s treatment schedule. In the event that medication needs to be administered while your child is in care please consider the following:

• Each medication requires an Authorization for Drug/Medication Administration form to be completed and approved prior to administration.
• Under the counter medication must be in the original pharmacy container showing the physician’s name, date of issue, dosage and instructions.
• All medication must be in the original container, labelled with your child’s name and must show the dosage instructions and expiry date.
• Medications will be followed only by the manufacturer’s written instructions unless accompanied by a physician’s note.
• Daily use creams such as sunscreen, insect repellent, diaper creams, lotions, lip balms and hand sanitizer may be used without an Authorization for Drug/Medication Administration as long as its use has been approved in the registration package.

Nutrition

It is our hope that your child plays whole-heartedly while in care, using his body and mind to learn. All this energy gets burned up quickly, so when we refuel the tank, we want to be mindful of filling it with the most nutritional choices. Our Providers meet the recommendations for healthy eating as outlined by the Ministry of Education, amended from time to time. For children in care for 6 hours or more, 2 snacks and a lunch is provided daily. A wide variety of fruits and vegetables are offered, along with protein and whole grains. We encourage different colours and textures and suggest offering a variety of options on the plate. We discourage foods that are highly processed and are high in sodium and sugars.

When your child is on a specialized diet because of food allergies, restrictions or cultural beliefs you may wish to make special dietary arrangements in order to meet your child’s unique needs. This may include an arrangement where you supply meals and/or snacks for your child, or you provide substitutions for your Provider to make meals and snacks (i.e. vegan butter, egg substitute, etc). In this circumstance, a Special Dietary and Feeding Arrangements form will need to be completed, which we will be happy to assist you with.

Outdoor Time and Risky Play

When children have the opportunity to play outside daily, the benefits are indisputable. Oodles of research tells us that not only does this help children’s physical well-being, but it also invokes a sense of wonder and curiosity and a deeper level of engagement and connection with the world around them.

Children in care for 6 hours or more are required to spend a minimum of 2 hours per day outdoors. This gives lots of opportunity for children to explore their senses as they manipulate mud and snow, go for walks while listening to the birds chirping, and guess what the sweet smell in the air might be.

Nature is a tool to get children to experience not just the wider world, but themselves. ~ Stephen Moss

Outdoor time is also a great space to engage in physically exuberant activities. Children can test their bodies limitations as they walk on different terrain, climb on trees and try to run as fast as their older friends. When we encourage children to engage in these riskier activities, we are building their confidence and knowledge. Children begin to learn how to complete a “risk assessment” of their surroundings. They begin to understand that ice is slippery, rocks can slide and falling can create a skinned knee. Children make observations of their environment and take calculated risks. Research tell us, that engaging in risky play sets the foundation for a skillset that will be used well into adulthood and is one of the most preventative strategies in keeping children safe. 

Trampolines

Some providers may have trampolines for enriching gross-motor play in their yards. Children are permitted to use trampolines if written permission is provided. It should only be used one at a time with shoes off and only if it is fully enclosed by netting and the door zips closed.

Sleep/Rest

Nap or Quiet time is important for children to feel well rested and ready to learn and engage successfully. It is important for their ability to self-regulate, focus and have the energy to see out the day. Although some children need less time than others to rejuvenate, the timelines for nap/rest times as well as the health and safety measures surrounding it are guided by the Ministry of Education.

• Children 18 months and younger will sleep in a crib or playpen 
• Children over 18 months will sleep on a cot or bed 
• Naps cannot exceed 2 hours in length at a time
• Children will be offered a rest period daily
• Your Provider will perform sleep checks daily 

These procedures and protocols are devised by the Ministry of Education to maximize children’s safety and basic needs but they don’t take into account your individual child. In your registration package you are asked questions about your child’s sleep schedule and routine, but we request that you continue this dialogue often with your Provider.

If you are in need of overnight care, we recommend speaking with a Home Visitor as there are different needs and requirements. Not all our homes are approved for overnight care.

Under 12 months:

The health and safety of your child is of utmost importance to all of us. The Joint Statement on Safe Sleep: Preventing Infant Deaths in Canada is what helps guide our practices regarding sleep for your infant. They are the experts on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and their research has guided these practices:

1. Infants under 12 months will be placed on their backs to sleep.
2. Infants will be placed on a firm surface and no pillows, comforters, quilts of bumper pads will be used.
3. Children will be placed in their own individual playpen or crib to nap. 

Release of Child

We want you to always be comfortable knowing that your child is in care safe and sound and will be there until you return. Know that your Provider can only release your child to the guardians noted in the Registration package unless a legal custody agreement has been supplied, or to the people indicated on your Emergency Child Care Pick Up list. When someone who the provider hasn’t met before comes to pick up your child, they will need photo identification.

If someone arrives to pick up your child and it is probable that they may place the child’s safety at risk, the Provider has the right to deny releasing the child to that person. The Provider will call alternative contacts for your child. Your child’s safety will always be the top priority.

Field Trips and Criminal Record Checks

When possible, we love to get together as a team and share in a day of adventure and fun. Field Trips have included parks, dance studios, gymnasiums, zoo to you experiences, etc. As a parent you may want to join and we would love the volunteers! Just as you would at the school, you will need to complete a Criminal Record Check with a Vulnerable Sector Screening. We supply the letter and because you’re a volunteer it’s free! Please be aware however, that these checks can take some time to complete so if you think you may want to volunteer in the future, please reach out right away.

Community Adventures

When your child establishes a sense of community and belonging it cultivates authentic connections and helps them to define a clearer sense of who they are. We encourage our Providers to use their judgement to foster these relationships by going on community walks, enjoying the neighbourhood parks, and utilizing programs such as the EarlyON and Story Time at the Library.

Many of our Providers also feel a strong relationship to nature and are often hiking on nearby trails or on backyard loops.

Transporting Children

With respect to transporting children, the Provider is diligent in taking all possible precautions in attempt to keep your child safe. Providers will only transport children whose family has signed the permission to transport section of the registration package.

Every child must be transported in an appropriate seat, child safety seat or booster seat as required by the Ministry of Transportation at all times. As the child’s age and weight change, ensure that you notify the Provider of any new transporting requirements. The family and Provider will determine who will provide the restraint system for each child. The Agency does not provide restraint systems for children or inspect installation of car seats.

Driving in Muskoka, specifically in the winter can be a challenge. In the event of inclement weather (e.g. heavy snowfall, freezing rain, etc.), Providers are not permitted to transport children in their vehicles. If your child attends school and the busses are cancelled, the Provider may not be able to walk your child to school. If the Provider has space available and you decide to have your child remain at the Provider’s home for the day, you are required to notify your Fee Subsidy Case Manager, if applicable.

Pets

Part of the charm of Home Child Care, is that there are often pets who are actively involved in the program. This is a great opportunity for children to learn how to treat animals with respect and kindness, especially if you don’t have any at home. We encourage our families to have discussions with their children about the following:

• Treating animals gently and calmly.
• Never hurting, teasing, frightening, chasing, surprising or cornering an animal.
• Avoiding chasing and kissing animals.
• Being mindful not to disturb an animal that is eating or sleeping.

Prohibited Practices

Although we would never suspect the following from our Providers, there is a list of Prohibited Practices that are outlined by the Ministry of Education and are to be included in all Family Handbooks. This policy specifies that no provider, back-up provider, staff, students or other persons normally resident in the home shall, at any time:

• Use corporal punishment on a child
• Physically restrain a child, such as confining the child to a high chair, car seat, stroller or other device for the purposes of discipline or in lieu of supervision, unless the physical restraint is for the purpose of preventing a child from hurting himself, herself or someone else and is only used as a last resort and only until the risk of injury is no longer imminent.
• Lock the exits of the home Child Care premises for the purpose of confining the child, or confining the child in an area or room without adult supervision, unless such confinement occurs during an emergency.
• Use harsh or degrading measures or threats or use derogatory language directed at or used in the presence of a child that would humiliate, shame or frighten the child or undermine his or her self-respect, dignity or self-worth.
• Deprive the child of basic needs including food, drink, shelter, sleep, toilet use, clothing or bedding.

Inflict any bodily harm on children including making children eat or drink against their will.

Serious Occurrences

If a Serious Occurrence (as defined by the Ministry of Education) has occurred in your Provider’s home (such as an injury, missing child, COVID-19 outbreak, fire, or disaster) it will be reported to the Ministry of Education by the Home Child Care Agency. A notice of the occurrence will be posted at your Provider’s home and at the Agency office. Any questions or concerns regarding Serious Occurrences should be directed to the Agency.

As independent business owners, our Providers are able to have Back Up Providers, Volunteers and Students in their homes, but not all do. In order to do so, the person must go through similar screening processes as our Providers do, including attaining a Criminal Record Checks with a Vulnerable Sector Screening. 

Back-up Care, Volunteers and Students

Back up Providers may be active in the following ways:

• Independently caring for the children, in the event that the Provider is unavailable due to emergency circumstances or a schedule time off.
• Dependently, working alongside the Provider in whatever capacity is needed.

Back Up Providers are:

• Trained by the Provider and the Agency
• Are familiar with Individual Support Plans and routines of the home
• Are only able to provide care in the Providers approved home, during field trips or while on community walks.
• Parents are notified in advance if a Back Up Provider will be used. This will allow families to make the decision to place their child in care during that time or make alternate arrangements. Whenever possible, families and children should meet the Back Up Provider, prior to an emergency situation. 

  Back-up Plan, Professional Training Days and Vacations

  Although our Providers may have a Back Up Provider, not all do. Just like everyone, your Provider may need time off now and then due to illness, a family emergency or a scheduled appointment. As much as the Agency would love to assist with a temporary placement, that isn’t always possible and it is why we highly recommend arranging an independent back up plan such as a friend or family member. When your Provider goes on vacation, they will provide you with a minimum of two weeks written notice. The same courtesy is appreciated, when you choose to go on vacation. Our Provider’s often commit to Professional Learning workshops, trainings and meetings outside of their scheduled program hours. We are very grateful to them for their level of commitment and dedication and we know that their time is precious.  On occasion throughout the year, we will host PD days with our Providers during the work week to support a better work life balance. You will be notified of these days 4 weeks in advance and you will not be charged for the day. We appreciate your support and understanding.

Children have the right to grow and learn in a caring, stimulating, flexible and respectful environment. The Muskoka Home Child Care Agency promotes warm, kind, and safe environments where families are valued and respected.

At the Agency and at Provider homes, children are viewed as competent, capable, curious and rich in potential. The Child Care and Early Years Act and the document How Does Learning Happen? guide our philosophy in all of our interactions with children, families, Providers and staff. With the regulations, principals and pedagogy in these documents, we commit to the following:

• Children shall always feel and be safe and welcomed in their program. Children shall always be valued for who they are and their contributions to their program will be respected and appreciated. Their health, safety, nutrition and well-being in all areas are the first concern of Providers and staff. This will be met through:
  • Constant supervision of children;
  • A mixture of announced and unannounced home visits by our Home Visitor, as required by the Ministry of Education;
  • Nutritious meals and snacks are provided as set out in the Health Canada documents “Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide”, “Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide – First Nations, Inuit and Métis” or “Nutrition for Healthy Term Infants;”
  • A variety of learning experiences based on children’s interest and abilities;
  • Inclusion of children with special needs;
  • All Providers, Back-up Providers and Agency staff trained in standard first aid with infant and child CPR;
  • Warm and caring interaction and;
  • A holistic view of the child that fosters well-being, belonging, expression and engagement.

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• Interactions among children, parents, Providers and Agency staff and students will always be positive and responsive. This will be accomplished by:
  • Using a tone of voice that is calm and nurturing;
  • Listening to each other;
  • Helping children identify their emotions;
  • Encouraging families to participate in the program and;
  • Respecting individual differences.

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• Children shall be encouraged to interact and communicate in a positive way. Children will also be supported in their ability to self-regulate. We will model and encourage positive interactions through:
  • Using positive reinforcement;
  • Guiding children through problem solving;
  • Actively listen to children and model appropriate empathy and;
  • Providing environments that encourage children to express themselves in positive ways.

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• Children’s natural curiosity and development will be fostered through exploration, play and inquiry. This will be accomplished by:
  • Providing a variety of experiences for children through hands-on learning and various types of play (sensory, gross-motor, fine-motor, quiet, loud, social, solitary, etc.);
  • Providing resources based on the children’s interests;
  • Guiding children with open-ended questions to encourage inquiry;
  • Providing flexibility in daily routines and activities to allow children to continue their exploration at their own pace;
  • Focus on process, not product, and;
  • Provider observations and documentation.

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• Providers and Agency staff will provide child-initiated and adult-supported experiences. We shall:
  • Play with the children at their level while maintaining supervision of all children;
  • Engage with the children as co-learners and use the environment as a third teacher;
  • Provide resources for children based on their interests and natural curiosity and;
  • Observe and document children’s interests and create experiences based on those observations.

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• Providers and Agency staff will plan for and create positive learning environments and experiences in which each child’s learning and development will be supported.
  • Providers will be offered support and training to understand children’s individual abilities and appropriate developmental milestones.
  • Homes will have a variety of toys and equipment available to support each child’s needs and interests. Providers will also be encouraged and supported to include resources that show multiculturalism.
  • Individual Support Plans for children with special needs will be developed to ensure they are able to meet their full potential, their individual needs are met and they can engage in each program in a meaningful way.
  • Providers will support children as they engage in manageable levels of risk taking to strengthen their sense of self, competence and development of self-help skills.

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• Indoor and outdoor play, as well as active play, rest and quiet time will be incorporated into the day with consideration given to the individual needs and abilities of the children in care. This will be met through:
  • A minimum of two hours outside play time per day (weather permitting);
  • A minimum sleep, rest or quiet period of one hour per day;
  • Encouraging families to share their knowledge of their children’s needs and interests;
  • A variety of gross and fine motor experiences and;
  • A flexible daily schedule that is enriched with positive learning experiences to meet the children’s developmental and individual needs.

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• Providers and Agency staff will foster the engagement of and ongoing communication with parents about the program and their children. 
• Families will be welcomed into the program every day and consulted regarding their child’s needs, including, but not limited to sleep, food, preferences, etc.
• Families are encouraged to ask questions regarding their children’s care.
• Providers will communicate with families regarding their children’s day in care.
• Providers are encouraged to document children’s experiences and share with families. Some methods of communication encouraged are individual, closed Provider Child Care Facebook pages, using documentation tools such as SeeSaw, taking pictures throughout the day and documenting the children’s learning.

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• Involve local community partners and allow those partners to support the children, their families and staff.
  • Providers are encouraged to have community partners come into their homes to educate the children and/or visit local partners (fire station, local legions, music stores, etc.).
  • Providers are encouraged to visit local Libraries and Ontario EarlyON programs.
  • Agency staff will provide resources and information on local partners to Providers and parents and encourage Providers and children to utilize supports as required, i.e. Speech and language supports, local health unit, etc.
  • Resource teachers will be encouraged to participate in Provider homes as required.

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• Support staff, Providers, students and others who interact with children at a Provider’s home to engage in continuous professional learning. This will be accomplished by:
  • Encouraging Providers, Back-Up Providers, Students, etc. to attend District of Muskoka offered workshops and training.
  • Throughout the year the Providers will be able to engage in professional learning and appreciation days organized by the MHCCA. 
  • Providing information on training opportunities that occur locally, provincially, web-based, etc.

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• Document and review the impact of the strategies set out in clauses (a) to (j) on the children and their families.
  • The Program Statement and relevant Policies and Procedures will be reviewed annually with Providers, Back-up Providers, persons normally resident or regularly present in the home, staff and students. The Program Statement and Policies will be reviewed with all new Providers, staff, etc. before interacting with children or at any time when the Program Statement or Policies have been modified.
  • The Agency will provide opportunities for families and Providers to give feedback on the Program statement through surveys, conversations, annual training day (Providers), etc.

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• All Home Child Care Providers and District of Muskoka employees will engage in a courteous and kind manner in the home and in public spaces, by conducting themselves to the highest standard of respectful and responsible behaviour. This will be demonstrated by:
  • Respecting and complying with all applicable licencing requirements of the District of Muskoka and the Ministry of Ontario;
  • Demonstrating honesty and integrity in their interactions with children, parents, Providers, Managers, Home Visitors, and all other agencies’ staff and professionals;
  • Respecting differences in people, their ideas, and opinions;
  • Treating all others with dignity and respect at all times, even when disagreeing;
  • By respecting and treating all others equally, regardless of their race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age or disability and;
  • By respecting the rights of others.

Appendix B - Parent Issues and Concerns

The purpose of this policy is to provide a transparent process for parents/guardians, the home child care agency licensee and staff to use when parents/guardians bring forward issues/concerns.

Licensee: The individual or agency licensed by the Ministry of Education responsible for the operation and management of each home child care agency it operates (i.e. the operator).

Home Child Care Provider: The individual with which the home child care agency has established an agreement for the provision of child care in their home premises.

Staff: Individual employed by the licensee (e.g. Manager or Home Visitor).

General: Parents/guardians are encouraged to take an active role in our Muskoka Home Child Care Agency and regularly discuss what their child(ren) are experiencing with our staff and home child care Providers. As supported by our program statement, we support positive and responsive interactions among the children, parents/guardians, child care Providers and staff, and foster the engagement of and ongoing communication with parents/guardians about the program and their children. Our Home Visitors are available to engage parents/guardians in conversations and support a positive experience during every interaction.

All formal issues and concerns raised by parents/guardians are taken seriously by The Muskoka Home Child Care Agency and will be addressed. Every effort will be made to address and resolve issues and concerns to the satisfaction of all parties and as quickly as possible.

Formal issues/concerns may be brought forward verbally or in writing. Responses and outcomes will be provided verbally, or in writing upon request. Home Visitors will be required to make written notes about concerns to be placed in the child’s file at the agency office.  The level of detail provided to the parent/guardian will respect and maintain the confidentiality of all parties involved.

An initial response to an issue or concern will be provided to parents/guardians within two business days. The person who raised the issue/concern will be kept informed throughout the resolution process.

Investigations of issues and concerns will be fair, impartial and respectful to parties involved.

Confidentiality

Every issue and concern will be treated confidentially and every effort will be made to protect the privacy of parents/guardians, children, home child care Providers, other persons in the home child care premises, staff, students and volunteers, except when information must be disclosed for legal reasons (e.g. to the Ministry of Education, College of Early Childhood Educators, law enforcement authorities or a Children’s Aid Society).

Conduct

Our agency maintains high standards for positive interaction, communication and role-modeling for children. Harassment and discrimination will therefore not be tolerated from any party.

If at any point a parent/guardian, home child care Provider and/or staff feels uncomfortable, threatened, abused or belittled, they may immediately end the conversation and report the situation to the Manager.

Concerns about the Suspected Abuse or Neglect of a Child

Everyone, including members of the public and professionals who work closely with children, is required by law to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect. 

If a parent/guardian expresses concerns that a child is being abused or neglected, the parent will be advised to contact the local Children’s Aid Society (CAS) directly.

Persons who become aware of such concerns are also responsible for reporting this information to CAS as per the “Duty to Report” requirement under the Child and Family Services Act.

For more information, visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/report-child-abuse-and-neglect

Escalation of Issues or Concerns: Where parents/guardians are not satisfied with the response or outcome of an issue or concern, they may escalate the issue or concern verbally or in writing to The Muskoka Home Child Care Agency Manager.

Issues/concerns related to compliance with requirements set out in the Child Care and Early Years Act., 2014 and Ontario Regulation 137/15 must be reported to the Ministry of Education’s Child Care Quality Assurance and Licensing Branch.

Issues/concerns may also be reported to other relevant regulatory bodies (e.g. local public health department, police department, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Labour, fire department, College of Early Childhood Educators, Ontario College of Teachers, College of Social Workers etc.) where appropriate.

INSERT PDF CHART OF SCENARIOS

Appendix C - Best Practices for Successful Interactions

Our daily rate of care is in response to the need for affordable quality care in Muskoka. In January of each year, an annual increase of 2% will be applied to the daily rates. Fees for parents will be reduced in accordance with the CWELCC agreement.

Allotment Day Allowance Schedule

Appendix F - Canada Wide Early Learning Child Care Plan - Base Fee