Parent Handbook Policies

[Unregistered]

Hi,
I am a former Head Start teacher who wants to start my own child care business. I want to start out as a large child care home before jumping into center. I am in the process of creating a parent handbook. I am trying to think of every possible issue that may come up (these boards have helped me add policies!) So far my handbook is 10 pages long. Is that too much? I would like parents to initial by important policies. Will that annoy them? I just want to avoid problems (as much as possible). I am looking for experienced providers (or ex-providers!) who wouldn't mind reviewing my handbook and giving their opinions or suggestions. Thank you!

[tymaboy]

My policy 11 or 12 pages. The last page is where they sign saying they have read it then they give it to me along with my contract. I will then make copies of both of them & give back to the parents for their records. My contract is pretty much an outline of the policy (important parts) That way they have signed 2 documents saying that they understand the rules.

[originalkat]

Long Handbook

My Handbook is 17 pages long. I have never had anyone think it was overwhelming. I think they appreciate having it for reference. It shows parents you are organized and take your business seriously. Not to say that if you only have a 2-page policy you arent professional...different providers have different styles. But for me, I like to have everything outlined in writing so I don't feel like Im making things up as circumstances arise (which is how I felt before). I recently added a few things. Here is a list of my table of contents:

Welcome……………………………………………………………………………………..3
Mission………………………………………………………………………………………..3
Philosophy……………………………………………………………………………….…..3
Curriculum……………………………………………………………………………………4
Learning Goals………………………………………………………………………….…..5
Admission……………………………………………………………………………………6
Prospective Families.……………………………………………………………………...6
Reservations………………………………………………………………………………...6
Tuition……...………………………………………………………………………………...7
Receipts……………………………………………………………………………………...7
Enrollment…………………………………………………………………………………...7
Trial Period…………………………………………………………………………………..8
Withdrawal…………………………………………………………………………………...8
Annual Renewal…………………………………………………………………………….8
Personal Information………………………………………………………………………8
Arrival………………………………………………………………………………………...9
Departure…………………………………………………………………………………….9
Open Door Policy…………………………………………………………………………..9
Back Up Care………………………………………………………………………………..9
Holidays…………………………………………………………………………………….10
Vacations…………………………………………………………………………………...10
Personal Leave…………………………………………………………………………….10
Inclement Weather………………………………………………………………………..11
Substitutes…………………………………………………………………………………11
Dress for Play……………………………………………………………………………...11
Child Cubbies/Mailboxes……………………..…………………………………………12
Toys from Home…………………………………………………………………………..12
Newsletters………………………………………………………………………………...12
Parent Board……………………………………………………………………………….12
Online Resource Area……………………………………………………………………12
Holiday Celebrations……………………………………………………………………..12
Meals and Snacks…………………………………………………………………………13
Water Cups…………………………………………………………………………………13
Quiet Times/Naps…………………………………………………………………………13
Toilet Training……………………………………………………………………………..14
Television Viewing………………………………………………………………………..14
Field Trips…………………………………………………………………………………..14
Birthdays……………………………………………………………………………………14
Health………………………………………………………………………………………..15
Injury………………………………………………………………………………………...16
Medication………………………………………………………………………………….16
Emergency Procedures………………………………………………………………….16
Child Abuse and Neglect………………………………………………………………...16
Behavior…………………………………………………………………………………….17
Pets………………………………………………………………………………………….17

[gbcc]

I cover many of the same topics in mine. You have a few added ones that may be helpful. Would you be willing to share yours? Mine is listed on my website. I don't mind if people copy it but I know some are protective of theirs.