Curiosity Corner Child Care Center - Family Handbook of Policies and Procedures - 3100 St. James Rd., Belmont, CA 94002 Tele/Fax: 650-592-7664 ...
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Curiosity Corner
Child Care Center
3100 St. James Rd., Belmont, CA 94002
Tele/Fax: 650-592-7664
e-mail: curiositycornerinc@gmail.com
www.curiositycornerkids.com
Family Handbook of
Policies and Procedures
(rev. 9/2021)
Table Of Contents
Page
Welcome to Curiosity Corner 4
Mission Statement
Program Goals and Philosophy
Admission and Enrollment Policy
Changes or Cancellation 5
Waiting List
Required Registration Forms
Tuition Policy 6
Payment Options
Delinquent Fees
Returned Checks or Declined Funds
Community Agency Tuition Payments
Tuition Changes/ Refunds
School Breaks, Holidays, Extended Days & Summer Camp 7
Hours of Operation
Closure Calendar
Program Activities & Homework Club 8
Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures 9
Health/Illness Protocols 10
Health Screening Questionnaire 11
Contagious Illnesses 12
Conjunctivitis (Pink-eye)
Strep Throat
Head Lice
Sunscreen 13
Incidental Medical Services Plan of Operation 14
Medication
Storage
Minor Injury
Medical or Dental Emergency
Student Accident Insurance
Cleaning/Disinfecting 15
Face Coverings 16
Physical Distancing
Stable Groups
Staff:Student Ratios
2
COVID-19 Staff Vaccination/Testing 17
Ventilation
Air Quality 18
COVID-19 Exposure at School 19
Vaccinated Close Contacts (flowchart)
Revised Protocols for Before/After School Care
COVID-19 Unvaccinated Close Contact (flowchart) 20
Extracurricular and Athletic Activities 21
Notification Protocols
Travel Recommendations and Requirements 22
Domestic & International Travel
Late Pick-up Policy 23
Drop-In Policy
Attendance
Licensing Information
Staffing Requirements
Custody Orders 24
Toys, Electronic Devices, Internet Use
Confidentiality 25
Discipline
Standards of Behavior
Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation 26
Suspected Neglect and/or Child Abuse
Clothing
Snacks/Lunch 27
Parent Visitation and Tours
State of California Inspection
Changes in Policies
Parent/Guardian Input
3
Curiosity Corner Child Care Center
Welcome to Curiosity Corner
This handbook contains information regarding the before and after school child care program
at Fox Elementary School. It is very important that you read this handbook and keep it handy
as long as your child is enrolled in the program. It will answer many of the questions you have
about Curiosity Corner’s policies and procedures.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide safe, affordable, high-quality child care in an atmosphere of respect,
cooperation, self-discipline, and creativity.
Program Goals And Philosophy
Curiosity Corner is a fully licensed child care center designed to meet the needs of the
neighborhood community. In doing so, we support families and the ability for parents to work
outside of the home, allowing them to feel secure knowing that their children have a
supportive and nurturing place to attend before and after school. We recognize the
importance of providing a balanced program that promotes opportunities for mental, physical
and emotional growth through a variety of creative experiences with a focus on social
interactions.
Admission & Enrollment Policy
Enrollment in Fox Elementary School is a prerequisite for enrollment in the TK-5th grade
Before and After School Child Care program offered at Curiosity Corner. The office at Fox
School must clear all applicants to our program.
Admission to Curiosity Corner is open to all students of Fox Elementary School without regard
to a child’s race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, or disability*; without regard to
a parent or guardian’s race, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, gender or disability.
*We will make every effort to include children with special needs into our program on an
individual basis. Our director will meet with the child’s parent or guardian prior to admission
to determine if our program meets the needs of the child.
Fall enrollment will be based on the following considerations:
1. Date and time completed registration forms and registration fees are received.
2. The availability of space at each grade level.
Parents/Guardians can apply for enrollment of their child by completing the Enrollment
Application and remittance of the $75.00 registration fee. If the application is for additional
siblings in the same household, the registration fee is $50.00 for each additional child (i.e. first
child $75.00, 2nd child $50.00, etc.) The registration fee is non-refundable unless space for the
requested time slot is unavailable.
4Changes or Cancellation of child care: A change in enrollment is subject to availability.
A 30-day written notice is required for any cancellation or reduction in the number of hours
enrolled.
Waiting List:
Enrollment at Curiosity Corner is on a first-come/first-served basis. If requested space is not
available in our program, interested families may place their child on our waiting list. Families
will be called when space becomes available in the program. You will have 2 business days to
accept or deny the space offered, otherwise we will move to the next student on our waiting
list. No fee will be charged unless we are able to confirm placement.
Required Registration Forms
Curiosity Corner and the State of California Department of Social Services/Community Care
Licensing require the following forms be completed and on file by the student’s first day of
child care. A student’s file is to be made available for review by Community Care Licensing at
any time without parent or guardian notification.
It is extremely important that any changes be updated immediately as we must be able to
contact you in the event of emergency.
The following forms will be available on our website www.curiositycornerkids.com or at
Curiosity Corner in hard copy form:
• Current School Year Application
• Signed Admission Agreement
• Identification & Emergency Information (LIC 700/modified)
• Consent for Emergency Medical Treatment (LIC 627)
• Parent Rights (LIC995)
• Personal Rights (LIC613A)
• Sunscreen, Media Form, Homework Club
• COVID-19 Liability Waiver
• Tuition Express Form
• Tuition Express Electronic Funds Transfer Authorization for Bank Account and Credit Card
Transactions.
5Tuition Policy
Monthly tuition payment is due on or before the 5th of each month or first business day
thereafter. This payment is considered late as of the 6th of the month and a $20.00 late fee
will be assessed. Curiosity Corner considers parents jointly and singularly responsible for
tuition payments regardless of custody arrangements. Non-payment of fees may cause
termination of child care.
Students are registered for specific time slots and hours/days may not be substituted.
There will be no fee reduction due to student’s absence for illness, vacations, or holidays.
Payment Options: Establishment of a Tuition Express account using Credit Card (Visa or
MasterCard only accepted) or Electronic Funds transfer from Checking or Savings Account is
our preferred method for automatic billing. If you prefer to pay by personal check or Money
Order, a $15.00 service fee will apply for each payment.
Discounts: Families enrolling more than one child residing at the same address will receive a
5% reduction of the monthly tuition for additional child(ren) only. This discount will be taken
from the lowest rate and proof of residence will be required.
Children of teachers employed in the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District (BRSSD) will
receive a 10% discount. Proof of employment will be required.
Delinquent Fees: Curiosity Corner may terminate care for any child when payment is not
received by the last working day of the month and your account may be sent to a collections
agency. Non- payment of fees by one parent can jeopardize enrollment in our program.
Returned Checks or Declined Funds: A $35.00 fee will be charged for any returned check. A
$15.00 fee will be charged for declined credit or debit card transactions, or if funds are not
available at time of deduction. Cash, credit or debit card, or Money Order must replace any
returned checks. If more than two returned checks are received within the school year, future
payments must be made by Money Order or credit/debit card and checks will no longer be
accepted.
Community Agency Tuition Payments: Curiosity Corner accepts tuition payment from the Child
Care Coordinating Council of San Mateo County (4C’s) and other Community Agency programs.
The contracting parent/guardian is responsible to make sure the contract is correct. All
contracting forms must be correctly submitted to Curiosity Corner prior to child care services.
The contracting parent/guardian understands they assume financial responsibility if fees are
not paid through the Community Service Agency program and responsible for any additional
family fee or co-payments that may not be covered by the provided contract. These fees are
due by the 5th of each month and failure to pay in a timely manner will be cause for
termination of services.
Tuition Changes: If an adjustment is necessary during the school year, parents will be notified
at least 30 days in advance.
Refunds: There are no tuition refunds for absences of any kind. Tuition will not be refunded in
cases of unanticipated program closure, including but not limited to weather, school closure,
teacher strike, pandemic, or local emergency.
6School Breaks, Holidays & Extended Days:
Curiosity Corner will offer child care at no additional charge on some school holidays and
extended in-service days in keeping with the student’s existing schedule for that day of the
week.
We will offer a 25% reduction in tuition for scheduled school breaks during the school year
calendar if there are less than 18 days of normal operation. The tuition for June will be
reduced according to the number of school days and all payments for June will be due by the
5th of the month. Payments received on/after June 6th will incur a $20.00 late charge.
Curiosity Corner will offer limited care during Winter, Mid-winter, and Spring breaks with an
additional fee. Families with two or more children will be given a $20.00 reduction for the
additional child(ren) living in the same household. Information and enrollment applications
will be available online and at the center at least 3 weeks prior. For Staffing purposes, each
application lists a registration deadline. Child care during these periods may be subject to a
minimum/maximum number of participants.
SUMMER CAMP: Curiosity Corner’s Summer Camp program is open to students aged 4.9-12
yrs. Campers do not need to be Fox School students. This is an ideal transition for incoming
TK/kindergarteners or students new to Fox School. We also offer a Counselor-In-Training (CIT)
program for students aged 12+ or entering 7th grade. Please call for details.
Hours of Operation (during the regular school year)
7:00am – until school begins After school until 6:00pm
Closure Calendar
Curiosity Corner will be closed on the following days:
New Year’s Day Memorial Day Thanksgiving and the day after
Martin Luther King, Jr. July 4th Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Holiday
President’s Day Labor Day 2-4 Cleaning/Decorating Days*
* These days will vary depending on the first day of school and the last day of school.
7Program Activities
Curiosity Corner’s program consists of thoughtfully planned activities that are interesting,
challenging, and stimulating to the child’s growth and development.
Students participate in:
Arts and crafts: unlimited in scope, include painting, clay sculpture, collages, yarn art, tie-
dyeing, ceramics, themed craft projects and many more experiences. Students explore their
creative side while using fine motor skills.
Science: projects and activities help kids discover their abilities in critical thinking and problem
solving skills when they are taught principles of logic, hypothesis testing, and other methods
of reasoning. Topics include, but are not limited to: animals, biology, chemistry, physics, space
and weather.
Cooking Projects: Organized small group cooking activities allow our students to practice
measuring and mixing ingredients, cutting fruits and vegetables, assembly, decorating, taste
testing and proper food handling. A few examples of these cooking activities include
preparing: fruit kabobs, yogurt parfaits, and banana brownies. All students will wear gloves
during cooking projects.
Indoor/Outdoor Activities and Games: Activities are designed to promote good
sportsmanship and improve socialization skills, assist with developing and maintaining a
positive self-image, problem solving strategies, and cooperation with peers. Perceptual motor
development plays a major role in our afternoon program.
Homework Club:
Curiosity Corner understands the importance of getting homework, at least started,
during after school hours. To support the student’s daily assignments, Curiosity Corner will
provide homework time for grades 1-5, Monday-Thursday, 4:00PM-5:15PM in the Fox School
Library. Staff members are available for homework assistance, but are not to be considered
tutors. Basic school supplies will be provided. Students are expected to bring their
assignments and materials. It is the child and parent’s responsibility to make sure assignments
are completed.
8Drop-off/Pick-up Procedures
• Curiosity Corner uses an electronic touchless system called ProCare Connect. Parents and
authorized persons can check-in and/or check-out students using smartphone or tablet
technology to access a QR code. We also provide a written sign-in/out attendance log
that is available at our main building’s front entrance.
• Staff will request to see proof of identity for any pick up person unfamiliar to them, even if
they are a parent, guardian, or an authorized pick up person.
• Parents and authorized persons are asked to wear a face covering and use social
distancing of 6 feet when arriving/departing.
• Parents and authorized persons will be asked to say “hello” and “good-bye” to the
student and staff from the front check-in area of Curiosity Corner.
• Only in case of emergency will a vaccinated parent or authorized person will be allowed
to enter Curiosity Corner or campus area. They will be required to wear a face covering,
have a temperature check, use hand sanitizer, and properly allow for physical distancing.
This visit should be as brief as possible.
• Persons signing out a child in our care must be 16 years or older unless we have written
authorization on file. This person must use the paper attendance log to sign-out the
student if they are not signed up to use ProCare Connect.
• Persons with serious underlying medical conditions or those more at risk for severe illness
should not pick-up or drop-off students.
• Students departing Curiosity Corner from before school care will be checked out by a staff
member.
• Students arriving independently to Curiosity Corner after school will be checked-in by a
staff member.
• Parents must complete a Liability Waiver if they wish their student to walk home or leave
Curiosity Corner independently.
• Curiosity Corner is not responsible for children once they have been picked up or
checked-out of our program.
9Health & Illness Protocols
The health of our staff and students is a matter of major importance to us all. We can only accept
healthy persons into Curiosity Corner. It is the family’s responsibility to self assess each day
before coming to school and to advise Curiosity Corner and the Belmont/Redwood Shores School
District (BRSSD) immediately if their student exhibits symptoms of a contagious illness or tests
positive for COVID-19.
Please keep Curiosity Corner up-to–date on all pertinent information such as emergency contacts,
e-mail addresses, and phone numbers. A new emergency form is required each school year.
Health and Hygiene: The COVID-19 circumstances can be understandably scary and confusing
for everyone and especially children. Please prepare your student for the “new normal” of
seeing others in face coverings, having reduced physical contact with their friends, keeping their
distance from others, and helping them adjust to a different schedule. It’s also helpful for
families to teach children good health habits, i.e. proper hand washing and how to properly
cover nose and mouth with a face covering.
For the health and safety of all, we have implemented the following protocols:
• All staff and students will wash hands for 20 seconds with soap, rubbing thoroughly after
application, and use paper towels to dry hands thoroughly. Properly dispose of paper towels in
receptacles provided. If soap and water are not available, staff and students will be provided with
hand sanitizer.
• Good hand washing habits will be reinforced for staff and students after bathroom use, before
and after eating, and after outside play.
• Students will be taught to avoid contact with one’s eyes, nose, and mouth, use a tissue to wipe
their nose and wash hands afterwards.
• Students will be issued a cubby or personal storage area for backpack and personal items.
• Any personal items, i.e.: sunscreen or clothing brought into the facility, must be labeled and kept
inside the assigned cubby or backpack.
• As the use of water fountains inside CC and on the school campus will be suspended, students are
encouraged to bring a personal reusable and labeled water bottle.
Upon admittance into Curiosity Corner, all students and staff will:
• Use hand sanitizer (if student is sensitive to hand sanitizer, we ask parents to provide an
alternative or we will send the student to wash hands with soap/water upon entering)
• Must have a non-contact Temporal Thermometer reading less than 100.4*F. (“Normal”
baseline temperature is 98.6*F (+/-).
• Wash hands with soap and water.
In case of illness while attending Fox School:
• Curiosity Corner cannot accept a student who becomes ill while attending normal school hours.
The student must be picked up from the school office at Fox School.
In case of illness while at Curiosity Corner:
§ We will provide the child a comfortable, isolated, and supervised area to rest and await pick- up.
§ We will attempt to contact parents/guardians or persons listed on the child’s emergency contact
list. The parent/guardian or authorized representative must pick-up the child within 30 minutes.
10HEALTH SCREENING
Prior to arriving at the school site, the BRSSD is requiring students and staff to self assess their
health status according to the COVID-19 Health Screening Questionnaire. Individuals MUST stay at
home when they are exhibiting symptoms.
Anyone arriving at the school site is assumed to have answered “NO” to all of the questions below:
11Contagious Illnesses
Children sent home with a contagious illness must not return to the program the following
day. They must remain home until symptom free or fever free without fever reducing
medication for 24hrs. If returning to Curiosity Corner after quarantine, the student must show
proof of negative COVID-19 test.
Conjunctivitis (pink-eye) is very contagious and may be caused by bacteria or virus. Eyes may
appear unusually red (bloodshot) and crusty. Children may not return to the program until 24-
hours after antibiotic treatment has begun. Eyes must be clear and free of discharge to re-
enter the program.
Strep Throat is a contagious bacterial infection that may cause a sore, scratchy throat and can
be spread from person-to-person. It is usually transmitted by close contact with the saliva or
nasal secretions from an infected individual, typically in the form of airborne respiratory
droplets. For this reason, it is frequently seen in situations where individuals are in close
proximity to each other, as in schools and day care centers. Individuals with a sore throat,
especially if accompanied by fever or other associated symptoms, should consider consulting
a healthcare professional. For more info: www.emedicinehealth.com
Head Lice: Per the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations: Students diagnosed
with live head lice do not need to be sent home early from school; they can go home at the end
of the day, be treated, and return to class after appropriate treatment has begun. Nits may
persist after treatment, but successful treatment should kill crawling lice. Head lice can be a
nuisance but they have not been shown to spread disease. Personal hygiene or cleanliness in
the home or school has nothing to do with getting head lice.
Head lice are tiny, wingless parasitic insects that live among human hairs and feeds on tiny
amounts of blood drawn from the scalp. Though they can't fly or jump, these tiny parasites
have specially adapted claws that let them crawl and cling firmly to hair. For most people,
itching is the most common symptom of head lice.
Steps for managing head lice:
§ Inspect every member of the household for head lice and nits. Nits are the lice eggs that
affix to the hair and do not flake off like dandruff. Nits can look like tiny sesame seeds. Live
adult lice are tiny and brown and move around the head.
§ Treat those infected with a head-lice product, remove nits (using a nit comb), clean the
home (including fabric furniture and car seats) and wash all pillows and bedding then use a
hot dryer. Tightly bag all stuffed animals for at least 3 days.
§ It is critical to remove every single nit from the head, since even one living nit can lead to
re- infestation.
12Sunscreen
We recognize that too much sunlight may increase your child’s risk of getting skin cancer in
the future. We ask that parent’s apply a sunscreen product before coming to Curiosity
Corner. Curiosity Corner’s policy is to re-apply a sunscreen product of SPF 50 or higher to
exposed skin, i.e.: face, neck, shoulders, arms and legs when needed and with proper
authorization. Parents may also supply their own sunscreen for the child’s use to be kept in
their assigned cubby or backpack.
The American Cancer Association Recommends:
• Avoid direct exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Teach children the shadow rule: if your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s rays
are at their strongest.
• Seek shade, especially in the middle of the day when the sun’s rays are strongest.
• Follow the Slip! Slop! Slap! and Wrap! ® rules:
ü Slip on a shirt: Cover up with protective clothing to guard as much skin as
possible when you are out in the sun.
ü Slop on sunscreen: Use sunscreen and lip balm with broad-spectrum protection
and a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Apply a generous amount of
sunscreen (about a palmful) to unprotected skin at least 30 minutes before outdoor
activities. Reapply every two hours and after swimming, toweling dry, or sweating.
Use sunscreen even on hazy or overcast days.
ü Slap on a hat: Cover your head with a wide-brimmed hat, shading your face,
ears, and neck. If you choose a baseball cap, remember to protect your ears and
neck with sunscreen.
ü Wrap on sunglasses: Wear sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB absorption to
provide optimal protection for the eyes and the surrounding skin.
Source: American Cancer Association http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancercauses/sunanduvexposure/skin-cancer-facts
13Incidental Medical Services Plan of Operation
Administrative procedures vary among medical personnel and medical facilities with regard to
provision of medical care for a child in the absence of the parent. The exact procedure required
by the physician or hospital to be used in emergencies should be verified in advance with your
doctor.
Medication: Non-prescriptive medication, i.e. Tylenol, nose drops, etc., as well as prescription
medication including Epi-pens, will only be administered when a PARENT CONSENT FOR
ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATIONS AND MEDICATION CHART form (LIC 9221) has been
completed by the parent or authorized representative of the child. The parent must provide all
medications. All medication must state the appropriate dosage for the child’s weight or age. If
not, a doctor’s note stating proper dosage will be required before we can administer medication.
Prescription medication must be in the original container and labeled with the child’s name and
dosage required. Auto-injector (Epi-pen), inhaler-bronchodilator, and over- the-counter
medications must be kept up-to-date (i.e. not expired).
Storage: All medications, equipment, and supplies will be safely stored in transportable
containers inside a cabinet marked “First Aid” located in the Director’s office. Please inform a staff
member if your child’s medication requires refrigeration.
Minor Injury: Every consideration will be taken to ensure the safety of your child while in our
care. Should a minor injury occur, standard first-aid will be administered and a FIRST AID REPORT
will be completed by the staff member attending to your child. A copy of this report will be sent
home.
In Case of Medical or Dental Emergency the following steps will be taken:
If a child sustains an injury needing attention beyond standard first aid, the staff will contact the
parent or authorized representative. If unable to reach the parent or authorized representative,
we will attempt to reach the next emergency contact on the student’s emergency contact list.
• If instructed by the parent or authorized representative, we will then contact the local emergency
number/911 for assistance. When 911 is called an ambulance/Paramedic will be dispatched.
• Only authorization of a parent/authorized representative can cancel an ambulance.
• The determination for transportation may be left up to the responding emergency personnel
depending on the seriousness of the injury and the availability of the parent/authorized
representative.
• If a child is transported to a local hospital facility, a staff member will remain with the child until a
parent/authorized representative arrives.
Student Accident Insurance: Curiosity Corner does not carry individual medical insurance that will
cover your child in case of emergency. All children registered at Curiosity Corner are insured
under a Group Accident Insurance Policy. This plan may reimburse claimants for eligible expenses
not payable by your healthcare plan or any other insurance plan providing reimbursement for
medical expenses. The injury or loss must occur while taking part in activities scheduled and
supervised by Curiosity Corner.
14Cleaning & Disinfecting
Regular cleaning and disinfection of child care and school settings are an important part of preventing
and minimizing the spread of pathogens. Pathogens are microbes that can cause disease and/or
infection. Pathogenic microbes may found be in the form of bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.
• Site cleaning and disinfecting, other than the regular cleaning throughout the day, will be
completed after program hours.
• Our cleaning products have been carefully chosen from the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) approved list “N” and are approved for use against COVID-19. These products reduce
the risk of asthma related to disinfecting with asthma safer ingredients (hydrogen peroxide,
citric acid, or lactic acid).
• Our disinfectants are effective against emerging viral pathogens when used according to label
directions and proper dilution rates. Employees are provided training on manufacturers
directions, on Cal/OSHA requirements for safe use, and as required by the Healthy Schools Act
training in a child care center.
• Employees shall wear gloves when using cleaning wipes and disinfectants.
• Curiosity Corner will clean and disinfect equipment and high-touch surfaces, i.e. sink knobs,
toilet seats, toilet handles, light switches, tables, chairs, doors and door handles, tile flooring
and vacuuming carpeted areas using a HEPA filter-equipped vacuum.
• All cleaning products are kept in a locked cabinet or out of the reach of children.
• We will provide toys and sports equipment that are easy to clean and disinfect before being
introduced back into the child care environment.
The differences between cleaning, disinfection and sanitizing:
Cleaning- Removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces or objects. Cleaning works by using soap
(or detergent) and water to physically remove germs from surfaces. This process does not necessarily
kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.
Disinfecting - Disinfecting kills viruses and bacteria on surfaces using chemicals.
Sanitizing - Lowers the number of germs on surfaces or objects to a safe level, as judged by public
health standards or requirements. This process works by either cleaning or disinfecting surfaces or
objects to lower the risk of spreading infection (CDC, 2016). Since sanitizing is based on quantitative
number of microbes killed, it is most often used by a regulatory agency to certify the effectiveness of
a product.
15Face Coverings (Masks)
As of August 2, 2021 and until further notice, the County Department of Public Health (CDPH) has
issued an order requiring masks to be worn regardless of vaccination status in all indoor public
settings, venues, gatherings, and workplaces, including schools. The order exempts people from
wearing masks when working alone in a closed office or room, or when actively eating and/or
drinking. Universal masking inside schools addresses concerns about variants and provides extra
protection for students who are not vaccinated. It also makes possible for CDPH to lift physical
distancing requirements.
To ensure the safest environment possible, Curiosity Corner staff and students from transitional
kindergarten through 5th grade, are required to wear a face covering in all common indoor and
outdoor areas on campus.
A “Face Covering” means a covering made of cloth, fabric, or other soft or permeable material,
without holes, that covers only the nose and mouth and surrounding areas of the lower face. A face
covering may include a scarf or bandana or a homemade covering made from a t-shirt, sweatshirt, or
towel, held on with rubber bands, elastic bands or ties. A face covering should not be medical-grade
or use a valve device. A face covering should be considered essential clothing that is laundered at
home by hand or machine washed and worn to school each day. Curiosity Corner will provide a
disposable face mask should the staff member or student require one.
For instructional purposes, staff members may work with students side-by-side as necessary, as long
as both student and staff member are wearing a face covering.
A Face Covering shall not be placed on anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious,
incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the face covering without assistance. People with
autism or other sensory processing disorders may not be able to safely wear a face covering and will
be exempt.
Physical Distancing:
The CDPH does not include any recommendations concerning physical distancing in schools as long as
other mitigation strategies (e.g., masking) are implemented.
When eating and/or drinking indoors, and not wearing a face covering, Curiosity Corner will use the
maximum physical distancing per space allocations. We will use outdoor space for lunch/snack as
much as is feasible. We will take into consideration air quality, weather conditions, and any other
factors when outdoors.
Stable Groups:
Curiosity Corner will continue to use the stable group model with the same groups of staff and
students each day as is feasible.
Staff to Student Ratios:
Curiosity Corner maintains a minimum staff to child ratio of 1:14 to ensure safety and individual
attention. Our child ratios are at or below the California State requirement for School-Age Child Care
Center.
16COVID-19: Staff Vaccination/Testing
Licensed Child care centers must verify the vaccination status of all staff and volunteers who are on-
site at a school campus supporting school functions. All staff as of August 2021, have received COVID-
19 vaccinations and are outside the 14 day waiting period. This information has been verified via the
following methods and proof of vaccination is kept in the employee’s file:
§ COVID-19 vaccination card (issued by the Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention or WHO Yellow Card) which includes name of
person vaccinated, type of vaccine provided and date last dose administered); or
§ a photo of a Vaccination Record Card as a separate document; or
§ a photo of the employee’s Vaccination Record Card stored on a phone or
electronic device; or
§ documentation of COVID-19 vaccination from a health care provider; or
§ digital record that includes a QR code that when scanned by a SMART Health Card reader
displays to the reader client name, date of birth, vaccine dates and vaccine type; or
§ documentation of vaccination from other contracted employers who follow these
vaccination records guidelines and standards.
Ventilation
Ventilation is one component of maintaining healthy environments, and is an
important COVID-19 prevention strategy for child care programs. Good ventilation
is another step that can reduce the number of virus particles in the air. Along with
other preventative actions, ventilation can reduce the likelihood of spreading
disease and assists in ensuring a safe and healthy environment for children in our
care.
Curiosity Corner’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC) has
been updated to use MERV 13 air filters and are to be changed by the school
district within every 90 days. MERV 13 air filters improve air quality by trapping
and blocking 98% of airborne particles. They utilize an electrostatic charge to
remove very fine particles from the air, as well as potential allergens like mold, pet
dander, bacteria—even particles that carry viruses. MERV 13 filters work up to 30
times more effectively and last 3 times longer than ordinary fiberglass filters. They
also prevent mold, fungus, and mildew to grow in the home or business.
17Air Quality
Curiosity Corner uses Accu-Weather to check the Air Quality Index (AQI) Scale:
Excellent=0-19: Air quality is ideal for most individuals; enjoy normal outdoor activities.
Fair=20-49: Air quality is generally acceptable for most individuals. However, sensitive groups may
experience minor to moderate symptoms from long-term exposure.
Poor=50-99: Air quality has reached a high level of pollution and is unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Reduce time spent outside if feeling symptoms such as difficulty breathing or throat irritation.
Unhealthy=100-149: Health effects can be immediately felt by sensitive groups.
Healthy individuals may experience difficulty breathing and throat irritation with prolonged
exposure. Limit outdoor activity.
Very Unhealthy=150-249: Health effects will be immediately felt by sensitive groups and should
avoid outdoor activity. Healthy individuals are likely to experience difficulty breathing and throat
irritation. Consider staying indoors and rescheduling outdoor activities.
When outdoor air quality is good, Curiosity Corner will open as many doors and windows as
feasible to bring fresh air into our buildings to help keep virus particles from concentrating inside.
When outdoor air quality is poor, Curiosity Corner will close doors and windows and students will
not be allowed to stay outside more than 15-20 minutes. Curiosity Corner will set the HVAC system
to circulating fan to operate continuously set to “ON” rather than “AUTO”. Once the air quality
improves, even temporarily, we will “air out” rooms/buildings to reduce indoor air pollution.
When outdoor air quality is unhealthy +, students will not be allowed outdoors. Doors and
windows will be closed and Curiosity Corner will set the HVAC system to circulating fan to operate
continuously set to “ON” rather than “AUTO”. Once the air quality improves, even temporarily, we
will “air out” rooms/buildings to reduce indoor air pollution.
Please advise if your student falls into the sensitive group and we will do all possible to
accommodate as needed.
18REVISED (09/02/2021) PROTOCOLS FOR BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROGRAMS: (cdph.ca.gov)
Before/After School programs i.e., Curiosity Corner, may be considered as part of the K-12 school
setting for COVID-19 definitions of close contacts and allowable activities…
1. IF:
a. The before/after school program is located on the school site. ✓
b. The before/after school program follows the CDPH K-12 Public Health Guidance (most
specifically, the indoor mask requirement is enforced). ✓
c. The before/after school program is following the state’s public health order for school staff to
either present proof of vaccination or to be tested once per week (full compliance by October
15, 2021) ✓
2. THEN:
a. (Definition of close-contact) Exposures that occur in such on-site before/after school
programs may be considered “close contacts” that benefitted from the CDPH safety measures,
thus may qualify for “modified quarantine”. (Those in modified quarantine must continue to be
asymptomatic, mask as required, and undergo twice weekly testing during 10-day quarantine)
b. (Recommendations for those in modified quarantine) Students who are in modified
quarantine may continue to attend the on-site before/after school program.
1920
Extracurricular and Athletic Activities
• Students who are not vaccinated may NOT participate in extracurricular and athletic
activities after an exposure.
• Asymptomatic students participating in extracurricular and/or athletic activities who
are not vaccinated and have been exposed MUST quarantine for 10 full days for
school, afterschool care, and activities within the community.
Contact Protocols
CASES AND CONTACT TRACING IN THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY:
In the event of a confirmed COVID-19 positive CASE, all incidents of possible exposure will be
documented, and the following procedures put into action:
• We will immediately e-mail and call parents to notify them of the exposure while
maintaining confidentiality as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• We will communicate with the San Mateo County Health Department, CA
Community Care Licensing, the Belmont/Redwood Shores School District, and
the Fox School Principal that a confirmed case has been identified with a formal
outline of the actions being taken to ensure a safe return to Curiosity Corner.
• We will confirm the infected person is under medical care and a plan to self-
isolate according to the San Mateo County Health’s protocol.
• We will confirm that other members of the household who are also part of the
school community remain at home in self-quarantine per County Health
guidelines.
• We will evaluate whether cleaning and disinfecting measures can be
implemented without temporarily closing the facility and classrooms on campus
or whether temporary closure is necessary. We will also consult with County
Health officials.
• At all times, we will maintain the privacy of health and medical information for all
individuals per the ADA and FERPA laws.
• Once steps of protocol are completed, we may resume operations.
21Travel Recommendations and Requirements:
Not Fully
Domestic Travel
Vaccinated Vaccinated
Get tested 1-3 days before travel ✔
Get tested 3-5 days after travel and self-quarantine for 7 days. Self-
quarantine for 10 days if you don’t get tested. ✔
Self-monitor for symptoms ✔ ✔
Wear a mask and take other precautions during travel ✔ ✔
Not Fully
International Travel
Vaccinated Vaccinated
Get tested 1-3 days before traveling out of the US ✔
Mandatory test required before flying to US ✔ ✔
Get tested 3-5 days after travel ✔ ✔
Self-quarantine after travel for 7 days with a negative test or 10 days
without test ✔
Self-monitor for symptoms ✔ ✔
Wear a mask and take other precautions during travel ✔ ✔
22Late Pick-up Policy
Authorized persons MUST be on time for pick-up by 6:00pm. Our staff will be busy
cleaning and disinfecting the facility for the next day. We will be unable to supervise
children past the assigned pick-up time.
However, we understand that emergencies arise and due to traffic or inclement weather
you may be late on occasion.
In the event you are not able to arrive on time:
• Please call us (650) 592-7664 to let us know your situation and approximate arrival time.
• Try contacting someone on your student’s emergency contact list to pick-up your child
by the designated pick-up time (3:10pm for registered “early birds” in TK & K and
6:00pm for registered full afternoon students)
• You will be charged $15.00 per child for the first 15 minutes that you are past the
designated pick-up time and $1.00 per minute thereafter.
• Late fees are to be paid directly to the staff member that stays late with your child.
• In the event you do not call us, we will make every effort to reach you or persons listed
on your child’s emergency contact list. It is very important to keep this list current.
• If we are unable to reach you or persons listed on your student’s emergency contact list
one-hour after designated pick-up time, we are legally bound to contact the Police.
• There is the possibility your contract will be terminated with continual late pick-ups.
Drop-In Policy
Curiosity Corner does not support daily drop-in or emergency care for unregistered
students.
Subject to availability, the drop-in rate for registered students per child will be:
Before School Care $15 cash to staff on duty
After School Care to be applied to your Tuition Express Account:
Transitional Kindergarten $45/day per student
Kindergarten $40/day per student
Grades 1-3 $35/day per student
Grades 4-5 $30/day per student
Attendance
We take attendance daily. Please notify Curiosity Corner by phone (650) 592-7664 or e-
mail curiositycornerinc@gmail.com if your child is going to be absent. This will save us time
in checking the whereabouts of your child.
Licensing Information
CCKids, Inc. dba: Curiosity Corner is licensed by the State of California, Social Services Division
of Child Care Licensing with Facility # 414004255.
Staffing Requirements: All Curiosity Corner staff members have passed a fingerprint-based
background check. The background check consists of fingerprint-based searches of State and
FBI Criminal History Record Information databases and name index searches of computerized
databases.
23Custody Orders
Certified custody orders must be given to our Director for placement in the child’s file.
Until custody has been established by a court action, one parent may not limit the other from
picking up a child in our care. Curiosity Corner must be notified immediately of any changes
in custody orders. Staff will request to see proof of identity for any pick up person unfamiliar
to them, even if they are a parent, guardian, or an authorized pick up person.
• If the contracting parent or guardian chooses not to list the divorced or separated parent,
pursuant to licensing regulations, we cannot release the child without a court-signed
order.
Staff cannot deny access to a biological parent.
• If the non-custodial, biological parent or other such person arrives to pick up the child,
and they are not listed on the Child Authorization Release Form, and we do not have
information on file, the staff will:
• Contact the contracting parent or guardian for permission to release the child;
• Explain to the non-custodial, biological parent or other person that we cannot release the
child to them without permission from the contracting parent or guardian. Staff will
explain the release procedure;
• If the contracting parent or guardian cannot be reached or permission is not given, staff
may need to call the police for determination of release.
•
Toys, Electronic Devices, Internet use
During COVID-19, toys from home will only be allowed for outdoor individual use. Electronic
devices from home for individual use are permitted at Curiosity Corner on Fridays during the
school year, during school breaks, and summer camp weeks. The use of electronic devices will
be on a monitored and limited basis. Students will not be allowed to share devices. Curiosity
Corner will not be held responsible for lost, misplaced/stolen, and/or broken electronic
devices.
Internet Use: While using electronic devices, students are able to access the Curiosity
Corner Wi-Fi service. Users will not use the Internet to knowingly or recklessly post, transmit
or distribute false or defamatory information about a person or organization, or to harass
another person, or to engage in personal attacks, including prejudicial or discriminatory
attacks. Students are not allowed to post videos or other forms of media of themselves or
other persons on the Internet.
Staff Training
Certified Adult/Child CPR and First Aid training by an approved outside service is provided in-
house every two years for all staff members. This training also includes administration of Epi-
pens using “trainer” pens. Staff will always take safety precautions, i.e. wear protective
gloves, when there is potential exposure to blood or other body fluids and use proper cleanup
and disposal of soiled refuse or instruments. Gloves are also required when serving or
preparing food. Staff is trained for the proper use of all cleaning and disinfecting supplies.
24Confidentiality
Our staff is trained to respect the confidentiality of information about children and families
enrolled in the center. The use or disclosure of all information pertaining to your child and
his/her family shall be restricted to purposes directly connected with the administration of the
program. No other use of this information will be made without the parent’s prior written
consent.
Discipline
The childcare program at Curiosity Corner provides a safe environment for children to develop
a mutual respect for themselves and others. Our discipline policy helps guide children to
become responsible individuals able to make their own choices and take responsibility for
their behaviors. We will use positive behavior modification techniques, as well as, conflict
resolution between students whenever possible. The use of time-outs or withholding of
privileges is used if inappropriate behavior is continual.
Our staff is required to keep an open line of communication with parents/guardians. There is
a ZERO-TOLERANCE policy at Curiosity Corner for corporal punishment: verbal or physical
violations of personal rights.
Standards of Behavior
Children will:
1. Use appropriate language.
2. Cooperate with the staff and each other.
3. Show respect to the staff and each other.
4. Refrain from any fighting or other harmful behavior.
5. Respect the rights and property of the staff and each other.
If our staff is unable to resolve continual behavioral issues, the following steps are taken:
1. Staff notifies the parent/guardian in writing requesting assistance in the matter. A signed copy
of the parent notification will be retained in the student’s file.
2. If misbehavior continues, staff again notifies the parent/guardian in writing regarding the
incident advising that the behavior continues to require additional attention and
improvement. A signed copy of the parent notification will be retained in the student’s file.
3. Should the misbehavior continue, a parent/guardian, student, Site-director, Teacher/Aide
meeting occurs. At this meeting the behavior will be discussed. The parent/guardian is
informed that if the behavior does not improve the child may be removed from the program.
25Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation
Curiosity Corner has a Zero-Tolerance Policy for any bullying, harassment or intimidation of
students and Staff members.
Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation is defined as exposing a person to abusive actions
repeatedly over time. Bullying becomes a concern when hurtful or aggressive behavior toward an
individual or group appears to be unprovoked, intentional, and (usually) repeated. Bullying is a
form of violence and may be physical (hitting, kicking, spitting, pushing), verbal (taunting,
malicious teasing, name calling, threatening), or emotional (spreading rumors, manipulating
social relationships, extorting, or intimidating). It involves a real or perceived imbalance of
power, with the more powerful child or group attacking those who are less powerful. Bullying can
occur face-to-face or in the online world.
For more information online please go to http://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/ss/se/bullyfaq.asp
Curiosity Corner is committed to providing an environment free of unlawful harassment. This
includes sexual harassment, as well as harassment based on such factors as race, color, creed,
religion, national origin or ancestry, age, medical condition, marital status, physical or mental
disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by federal, state or
local law. All such harassment is unlawful. Curiosity Corner will not tolerate harassment by any
person.
Complaints about sexual and other types of harassment should be reported immediately to the
Director. Sexual harassment complaints will be investigated promptly and all information will be
kept confidential. Curiosity Corner prohibits retaliatory behavior against any person who files a
complaint.
Suspected Neglect and/or Child Abuse
As required under the Child Protective Services Act, Curiosity Corner Staff are mandated to
report any instance of observed or suspected child abuse or neglect of a child. This includes a
parent/guardian or authorized person who appears to be under the influence of alcohol, illegal,
or other controlled substance when picking up a child from Curiosity Corner.
Clothing
Because of the wide range of activities provided at Curiosity Corner, it is recommended that
children be dressed in washable, comfortable clothing. Art, science, cooking activities and the
occasional bathroom accident may necessitate the need for an extra set of clothing be kept in
your child’s cubby at all times. All extra clothing should be marked with the child's name and
placed in a labeled plastic bag. Clothing should include underwear, socks, pants, and shirt. If wet
or dirty clothing is sent home, please return a clean extra set the next day. If borrowed clothing
is used, please wash/dry and return to Curiosity Corner within 2 days.
26Snacks/Lunch
CC will provide a healthy afternoon snack. A monthly list of snacks will be posted on our
Family Board on-site and on our website www.curiositycornerkids.com under the
“Calendars” tab. As a sanitary precaution, each snack will be served as an individual portion.
Children will not be permitted to share food. CC does not provide lunch. Each student must
bring their own lunch and drink. Please note that we will NOT be able to heat up or cook
food. All lunchboxes and reusable food containers must be taken home each day.
All staff will wear gloves when helping open or serving food to students.
Parent Visitation and Tours
During COVID-19, vaccinated parents will only be admitted into the facility or classroom in an
emergency situation with a temporal temperature check, face covering, and use of hand
sanitizer. Tours and visitation are suspended until further notice.
State of California Inspection
Any duly authorized officer, employee, or agent of the California Department of Social
Services (CDSS) may, upon presentation of proper identification, enter and inspect any place
providing personal care, supervision, and services at any time, with or without advance notice,
to secure compliance with, or to prevent a violation of, this act or the regulations adopted by
the department pursuant to the act.
Changes in Policies
The fees, procedures, and policies stated in this handbook are subject to change at the
discretion of State and/or County Officials and Curiosity Corner Administration.
Parent/Guardian Input
We appreciate input regarding program expectations, suggestions, ideas and comments on
ways to improve our service to you and your family. Please direct your input to Ann Karns,
Executive Director.
Thank you for taking the time to read Curiosity Corner’s Parent Handbook.
27You can also read
