Program Planning

Working with children requires organisation and the planning of programs to ensure that children experience challenging and engaging activities. Effective planning ensures the needs of the children, parents and staff are all considered. Programs are displayed in each room.

The development of the program is based on:

• Observing individual children and recording their interests and developmental stage
• Anecdotal records
• Discussion with parents
• Fully utilising available and appropriate resources
• Developmental checklists
• Developing objectives for individual children and the group and evaluating their achievements

OUR PHILOSOPHY

We aim to

• provide community support by responding to individual and family needs by providing long day care
• work together with families to provide quality care in an educational environment for children, offering an understanding of the individual cultural backgrounds and social needs
• provide reassurance to families, show respect towards each family's child rearing practices, and work with families towards the same goal in the best interests of children. Family members are welcome to become actively involved with the Centre activities and to contribute to the programs
• provide a homely environment where children and family members feel comfortable. We recognize culturally diverse backgrounds and the individual needs of all children and aim to provide an educational program that will encourage children and family members to show respect, extend their knowledge and enhance their learning environment
• provide a developmentally appropriate program based on the observations of individual needs and interests, with the flexibility to react spontaneously to those needs and interests
• provide a stimulating environment that is safe and rich with a variety of materials to encourage children to create, explore and experiment
• foster a positive identity and self-esteem in all children, helping children to realise their full potential
• employ warm, caring staff members who will foster open communication between parents, children and staff members
• operate in accordance within the Child Care Act 2002 and the Child Care Regulation 2003 and within the Accreditation High Quality Guidelines (Copies of these documents are kept at the Centre for your perusal)
• accept field practical placements from students in Early Childhood Studies, and other related disciplines, when that placement is an integral part of their course

Special Events

We like to celebrate the special events in your child’s life so please keep us informed of important occasions such as birthdays, new babies, visits by grandparents, holidays etc.

Birthdays

Everybody loves a birthday and we especially like to celebrate them at the Centre.You might like to provide a cake for your child to share with other children on this special day.

Excursions

Throughout the year the children will participate in excursions outside the school boundaries.The Pre Prep children will also explore our wonderful campus and have community education and cultural shows visit us.Notes will be sent home to notify you of any planned visits or shows so you can join us if possible.

Money collection

Students will be asked at times to bring money to Pre Prep for such purposes as cultural performances, book club, excursions etc.All forms and monies need to be placed in an envelope, clearly labelled with your child's name, purpose of the form and correct money.The envelopes will need to be given to the Director or Administration Assistant or placed in the fees box in the foyer.

Sleep/Rest/Quiet Time

Children are encouraged to rest or sleep according to their needs.

A quiet area and activities are provided for children who require less sleep than others or do not sleep at all.

Please discuss your child's sleeping patterns with staff. Comfort items, e.g. dummies, are welcome.

Please refer to our policy located in the Centre’s Administration building.

Children with Special Needs

Before enrolling your child at the Centre, it is important to discuss with us any special needs that your child may have, and how we can meet them.Planning for children with special needs require careful thought and often the assistance of specialist.It is important to know how the specific needs may or may not affect the child’s learning and activities.This information will help us to meet the needs of the child and seek assistance from specialists and support workers.Please help us provide excellent care for your child by bringing to our attention any special needs or problems your child may have.The Centre will endeavour to include children’s needs into the program.

Equal Opportunity

Equal opportunities to participate in all aspects of the program are given to girls and boys of all races, religions, cultures and physical abilities.

Please refer to our Anti-Bias policy located in the Centre’s Administration building.

Visitors

From time to time you will see new faces at the Centre.Relief staff and volunteers are screened before participating in daily activities and must adhere to the New Leaf Early Learning Centre philosophy.All relief staff and volunteers (other than parents) must hold a current positive Prescribed Notice (Blue Card).At no stage will a volunteer worker be left in charge of a group of children.

Child Care Students/School Based Trainees and Teacher Trainee Participants

Child Care students, School Based Trainees and Trainee Early Childhood Teachers are welcome at the Centre.Their role is expected to be one of full participation in all aspects of the Program.These duties include active input into the Program, assisting with documentation and other daily routines and activities.School Based Trainees, Child Care students and trainee Early Childhood teachers will work under the guidance of trained staff at all times.All students and trainees are required to hold a positive Prescribed Notice (Blue Card) issued by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian and a current Senior First Aid Certificate including CPR.

Baby Sitting

The Directors have no jurisdiction over Centre staff outside of work hours.For this reason the Centre is unable to recommend or support any private arrangements between staff and parents.

Toys and Other Treasures from Home

When purchasing equipment for the Centre, we select toys that foster peace, co-operation and education. Children are encouraged to leave at home those toys that do not meet this criteria, and no responsibility will be taken for toys and items that are brought into the Centre.Cuddly or security items are welcomed, but need to be clearly named.

Publicity

Your written permission is required before any photographs of your child can be taken for publicity purposes. If you do not wish your child to be photographed, please inform the Director.

Lost Property Box

If an item belonging to your child is missing, please check the Lost Property Box in your child's room. Clearly labelling your child's items will assist in locating them if they are missing.