EGK Family Handbook

Early Learning Center (EGK) September 2023 Family Handbook East Gate Kids 12120 Copper Ave NE Albuquerque, New Mexico 87123 Executive Director: Gabrielle Wheeler Director: Laura Orozco Administrative Assistant: Kimberly Moyao Office Administrator: Yamilet Sanchez

Table of Contents I Vision & Mission Welcome to Our EGK Family.................................................................…........Pg. 01 EGK Statements....................................................................................................Pg. 02 East Gate Kids Services................................................................................…..Pg. 02 Section 4: Health & Safety....................................................................Section 04 Security Protocol..............................................................................................Section 03 Introduction.............................................................................................................Section 01 Admissions & Policies..................................................................................Section 02 Enrollment and Registration Fees....................................................................... Waiting List.................................................................................................................... Tuition & ECECD Childcare assistance............................................................. Additional Fees............................................................................................................ Non-Discrimination Statement............................................................................ Inclusion.......................................................................................................................... Americans with Disabilities Act............................................................................ Holidays/Vacation..................................................................................................... School Closure/Yearly Schedule......................................................................... Disenrollment............................................................................................................... Confidentiality Policy................................................................................................ Guidance Policy.......................................................................................................... Discipline Policy........................................................................................................... Biting Policy................................................................................................................... 03 03 04 05 06 06 06 06 06 07 07 08 08 08 Main Door Access....................................................................................................... Open Door Policy......................................................................................................... Signing Your Child In and Out............................................................................... Release Authorization............................................................................................... Drop-Off and Pick-Up Procedures..................................................................... Children left after closing....................................................................................... Right to Refuse Child Release.............................................................................. Child Custody and Visitation................................................................................. Transportation.............................................................................................................. Smoke, Drug, and Weapon-Free Zone............................................................. Publicity........................................................................................................................... Personal Item Disclaimer........................................................................................ 09 09 09 09 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Illness/Sick Child Policy........................................................................................... Medication..................................................................................................................... Immunization................................................................................................................ Cleanliness.................................................................................................................... Pet Visits......................................................................................................................... Accidents and Injuries............................................................................................. Cameras Purpose...................................................................................................... 10 a.m. Drop-Off Policy............................................................................................ CACFP Family Nutrition............................................................................................ Food from Home......................................................................................................... Allergies & Dietary Restrictions............................................................................ Infant and Breastfeeding........................................................................................ Outline of Meals........................................................................................................... 11 12 12 12 12 13 13 13 13 13 13 14 14

Table of contents II Section 9: Our Leadership Team Environment as The Third Teacher...................................................................... Outdoor Playgrounds................................................................................................. Outdoor Playtime......................................................................................................... Daily Schedule ............................................................................................................. Ratios & Room Capacity.......................................................................................... Section 6: Learning Environment Section 10: Emergency Procedures Equal Opportunity........................................................................................................ Report Child Abuse and/or Neglect................................................................... Off-Hour Services........................................................................................................ State Requirements for Emergency.................................................................... Emergency Evaluation & Preparedness Plan.................................................. Emergency Procedure............................................................................................... Section 7: Grow together for Success Section 8: Family/Community Engagement Get Ready For The First Day.................................................................................... Toilet Learning................................................................................................................ Rest/Naptime................................................................................................................... Positive Guidance and Redirection...................................................................... Mental Health and Wellness.................................................................................... Incident/Injuries Reports.......................................................................................... Bring A Change of Clothing.................................................................................... Personal Items.............................................................................................................. Birthday Celebrations................................................................................................ Nature Based Learning.............................................................................................. Reggio Emilia Approach........................................................................................... Additional Support of Curriculum Learning..................................................... Section 5: Philosophy & Curriculum Families Involvement.................................................................................................. Community Partnership............................................................................................ Parent/Teacher Conferences................................................................................ Family Code of Conduct.......................................................................................... Parent Conflict Resolution....................................................................................... If A Child is Missing..................................................................................................... Enrollment Annual Requirements FH Acknowledgement & First Day Checklist ..........................................Section 05 .................................................Section 06 ......................................Section 07 ...................Section 08 ..................................................Section 09 ............................................Section 10 17 17 18 18 18 15 15 16 19 20 20 20 21 21 21 21 21 22 22 23 23 23 23 Chain of Command...........................................................................................Pg. 26 Our Core Values..................................................................................................Pg. 27 24 24 24 25 26 26

Vision & Mission Vision Mission Our vision is to instill in our future leaders a strong sense of purpose, integrity, and a commitment to lifelong learning by developing leaders who can inspire and motivate others, drive positive change, and shape a better future for all. We strive to be a place where children feel safe, supported, and empowered to explore, learn, and grow at their own pace. Through engaging activities, ageappropriate curriculum, and qualified and caring educators, we aim to foster children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. We believe that by partnering with families and the community, we can provide a solid foundation for each child's lifelong love of learning, as well as their personal and academic success. “East Gate Kids exists to make quantitative and qualitative differences in the lives of children and families of New Mexico”. East Gate Kids is a non-profit childcare center licensed by the State of New Mexico and adheres to all State rules and regulations governing childcare.

Welcome to our EGK family! We are honored for choosing our program as your trusted partner! We are thrilled to have you join our community. As a business, we take immense pride in the fact that we have been serving families for over 25 years. Throughout our journey, we have built a strong foundation based on trust, commitment, and unparalleled service. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you and your loved ones exceptional care, support, and resources. We understand that every family is unique, and we strive to create an inclusive and nurturing environment where your children can thrive and reach their full potential. We are excited to embark on this journey with you, nurturing and guiding your little ones through their crucial years. East Gate Kids was formerly known as Kids Alive Learning and Development Center, located at 1015 Chelwood Park Blvd. N.E. In 1995, Kids Alive was birthed by the Senior Pastor to serve the community and the Church by providing quality and affordable daycare services for children ages six weeks to 12 years. In March of 2000, Kids Alive moved from their facility located on Chelwood Park Blvd. to the new facility we are currently in. Not only did we move into a bigger and nicer facility, but we also added service for 6th graders and changed our name to East Gate Kids to coincide with the change of the church name from Chelwood Park Foursquare Church to East Gate Church of the Foursquare Gospel. Welcome To Our EGK Family 01 Our History Section 01

E a s t G a t e K i d s EGK Statements S t a t e m e n t s We believe the Holy Bible, both Old and New Testaments, are the inspired Word of God. We believe in the Trinity: God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We believe that man was created in the image of God, but because of his disobedience, he fell from perfection. We believe in the deity of Christ, His virgin birth, and his sinless life. We believe that while we were sinners, Christ died for us, signing the pardon through His sacrificial and atoning death for all who believe in Him. East Gate Kids serves children ages six weeks through 12 years of age. East Gate Kids is unique in its approach to classroom ages, separating children by age rather than combining age groups. Children are generally separated into the following classrooms: Infants (6 Weeks-12 Months Old) Pre-toddlers (12 Months Old-18 Months Old) Toddlers (18 Months Old-24 Months Old) Young Twos (24 Months Old-30 Months Old) Older Twos (30 Months Old-36 Months Old) Young Threes (36 Months Old-42 Months Old) Older Threes (42 Months Old-48 Months Old) Mix NM Pre-K (3 Years Old-5 Years Old) NM Pre-K (4 Years Old-5 Years Old) and School Age (Kindergarten through 3rd Grade) Youth Room (4th Grade thru 7th grade) East Gate Kids is committed to making quantitative and qualitative differences in the lives of children by providing a developmentally appropriate, stimulating, academically advanced, Christcentered learning environment for a diverse population of young children and youth while maintaining the highest standards of excellence in the areas of childcare, education, personnel and facilities utilizing input from families and community members. East Gate Kids believes children are a gift from God and that every child can learn if given the opportunity, encouragement, and a stimulating environment. (Proverbs 22:6) We feel it is our responsibility, in conjunction with parents and guardians, to help train children to learn responsibility and that there are consequences for their choices. As each child brings his/her own perspective to the childcare/preschool experience, we recognize that each child is an individual with his/her own strengths, experiences, and cultural differences. Children need to develop a positive sense of self, and it is our commitment to assist children in their journey to self-awareness. 02 EGK Services Faith Statement Mission Statement Philosophy Statement East Gate Kids believes that children learn through play. By providing activities and experiences that promote and enhance children's social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and spiritual development, children can feel comfortable in their surroundings, build positive self-esteem, become confident explorers and learners and develop skills and abilities as they grow into responsible individuals. Curriculum Statement Our operating hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for certain holidays listed in the yearly schedule. Section 01

Admissions & Policies Enrollment and Registration Waiting List Returning all requisite forms and paying the required fees completes the admissions process. The Parental Agreement and the Family Handbook govern the contractual relationship between your family and East Gate Kids. If you have any questions after completing all required paperwork, don't hesitate to contact the director to explain or clarify any policies or procedures. A non-refundable registration fee is due at enrollment; it is charged per child and applies to all classes. Registration fees are renewed every September. All tuition payments are to be made in advance or on the starting day of services. Your Enrollment Agreement of Services, costs, and Financial Information form provides further information on the payment due date. You are responsible for timely payments in order to avoid late fees. Availability is limited in each classroom and is determined by our licensing requirements from the Children, Youth, and Families Department of the State of New Mexico. If we cannot immediately accommodate your child when you apply, we will place your child on our waiting list with a nonrefundable holding fee. This fee may be applied to the tuition/registration fee. We will take into consideration the following when placing your child on the waiting list: Sibling of a child already enrolled Readiness of another child to move from one age group to another depending on age, time of year, and availability in the next classroom New children referred by families with children already enrolled, based on the date of the completed application and holding fee New children based on dates of the completed application and holding fee. Please be aware that if you decline an enrollment opportunity, we will extend that offer to another child on the waiting list. Your holding fee is non-refundable. 03 Section 01 A registration fee of $90.00 must be paid at the time of enrollment to guarantee the child's space in a particular classroom. This is a non-refundable fee. A "holding fee" of $150.00 must be paid in advance to hold a space for a child in a classroom for up to two weeks in advance. The holding fee is included in the registration fee of $90.00 and is non-refundable. A child's space in a classroom cannot be held for more than two weeks in advance. Once the time limit of 2 weeks has expired, the waiting list is activated. Registration fees are to be paid yearly and are due at the time of enrollment. Continuing enrollment from year to year will be charged a yearly enrollment fee in September of each year. - $60.00 for 1st child - $50.00 for 2nd child - $40.00 for 3rd child Registration Fees

East Gate Kids is pleased to provide Full-Time & Part-Time in order to meet the childcare needs of parents. Full-Time enrollment (Up to 50 hours per week) Part-Time enrollment (Up to 25-hours per week). Tuition & ECECD Childcare Assistance East Gate Kids tuition contracts verifying a parent's choice of tuition payment must be completed in full and returned prior to the first day of attendance. Arrangements made in the tuition contract must be maintained and kept current at all times. It is the responsibility of the parent to notify East Gate Kids of any change in tuition status as it occurs. All tuition payments are the sole responsibility of the person listed as responsible for payment. Any changes in tuition payments should be discussed and approved by the Director or Administrative Assistant prior to the change. The person listed in the tuition contract as the "responsible party" is the only person allowed to make changes in tuition with the approval of the Director or Administrative Assistant. 1. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian listed as the "responsible person for payment" to pay tuition, which is due by the 5th of each month and is to be kept current at all times. A $20.00 late fee charge will be applied to the account if payment is made after the 5th. 2. Late payment fees >>>>Additional fee of $20.00 will be added to the invoice for every additional day a payment has not been received. 3. If tuition is not paid by the 14th of the month, the child(ren) will be dis-enrolled until payment and late fees are paid in full. If on contract, ECECD will be notified of non-payment. Private Pay ECECD Child Care Assistance 1. ECECD Child Care Assistance contracts must be received prior to the first day of attendance to verify tuition of childcare assistance. A Smart Tuition Management tuition contract is not necessary for childcare assistance through the State of New Mexico. All childcare assistance contracts will be handled and monitored through ECECD in cooperation with East Gate Kids. 2. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian listed as the "responsible person for payment" to pay all copayments assigned by ECECD. These co-payments are due by the 5th of each month and are to be kept current at all times. 3. It is the responsibility of East Gate Kids to notify ECECD if payments are delinquent after the 10th day of the month. 4. It is the parent/guardian's responsibility to notify ECECD of any change in employment, salary increase/decrease, school schedule, etc. when the conditions set between the parent and ECECD have changed. 5. If the contract expires it is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to provide a valid contract by the 10th of the month. EGK will notify families about disenrollment after the 10th. Additional Fees 04 All tuition and ECECD contracts are subject to the following fees: LATE PICK-UP FEES A $10.00 late fee for the 1st minute and $1.00 for every minute thereafter will be charged for parents arriving after closing at 6:00 p.m. without prior approval from the Director or Admin Team. 2. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact East Gate Kids if late arrival is unavoidable. A simple phone call can result in a waiver of late pick-up fees when approved by the Director. 3. Any child remaining at East Gate Kids after 6:30 p.m. will be charged $40.00 for the 1st minute and $5.00 for every minute thereafter. 4. If no contact has been made with the parent between 6:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., licensing requires East Gate Kids to contact Child Protective Services if a child has not been picked up. 5. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact East Gate Kids when emergency situations arise that would prevent a child from being picked up at a closing time. 6. East Gate Kids maintains documentation to support these additional charges. Section 01

All tuition contracts are subject to the following fees: Due to banking requirements and additional charges assessed, there is a $20.00 returned check fee assessed for any returned check to East Gate Kids. Additional charges incurred as a result of a returned check are the responsibility of the tuition contract participant. If more than three (3) checks have been returned, East Gate Kids is unable to continue receiving checks from the contract participant, and tuition fees are due and payable in the form of a money order, debit card, credit card, or ACH. If a returned check is unable to be collected, the child can be immediately disenrolled from our program as a result of lack of payment. When a child has attended East Gate Kids in excess of the agreed-upon tuition contract, the parent will be assessed additional charges. The hourly rate of $15.00 will be charged for children attending over 25 hours or 50 hours per week. These charges also apply to ECECD Childcare Assistance Contracts. The parent is responsible for payment of these services, not ECECD (After 10 minutes, time counts as an hour). All late tuition payments will be assessed a $20.00 late charge per day when payment is not received by the guaranteed agreed-upon date stated in the tuition contract. Non-payment of tuition services exceeding 10-14 days past due will result in disenrollment of the child from our program until payment is made in full. East Gate Kids has contracted with an outside collection agency to collect all unpaid, outstanding tuition payments. All collection fees are the responsibility of the person being collected from. Parents are encouraged to communicate with the Director when payment of services will be delayed for any reason. Smart Tuition Management Services does not negotiate payments on behalf of East Gate Kids without the expressed authorization from the Director. Tuition begins on the first day of attendance and continues until East Gate Kids has been notified of disenrollment and a completed "disenrollment form" is completed, dated, and signed. Services can be paid for by either check or money order or through our ProCare App, using a Debit or Credit card with a 3.0% Fee payment or ACH no fees (Cash payments will not be accepted). All tuition contracts are based on a monthly fee determined by the child's enrollment status of full-time or part-time only. All tuition payments are due monthly in order to avoid late payment fees. 05 Only families that enrolled at least one child before December 31, 2022, qualified to receive a sibling discount. If the family disenroll all her children and would like to come back after January 1, 2023, this discount will not be applied to the family. Military Discount: 10% per family, not per child Fees for extra (spare) diapers and wipes - $3.00 per diaper after 3 days of the 1st reminder - $2.00 per day for using EGK wipes after the 5th of the month. (Parents needs to bring 3 big packs of wipes per month, if the packs of wipes are small you may need to bring 6 packs of wipes per month). (Fees will be added to monthly invoice. Fees will occur when parents fail to bring in their own diapers/wipes after being given 1st Parent Reminder!) These fees relate only to the parents of our school age children enrolled into our before/after school program. Each of our van drivers drop off and/or pick up an average of six (6) elementary and/or middle schools each day. We require our drivers to be at each school on time and to wait for a minimum of ten (10) minutes and up to fifteen (15) minutes for each child if their van run allows. Our drivers are told that if a child does not show up to the van in ten (10) minutes, they are to call the center to see if a parent has called in. If the parent has not called in, they are to check with the school on the status of the child. If the school and East Gate Kids do not know where the child is, the driver is to notify the childcare they are leaving the school without the child and the childcare will then notify the parents. In addition, the yellow buses are used as a guide for the drivers as well as the children. If the yellow buses are leaving, our van drivers ARE able to leave. The yellow buses wait for approximately ten minutes to load children to take them home. a child is sick or has not attended school or is not going to be attending East Gate Kids for the day, parents MUST notify EGK of the child's absence. Notification avoids sending the van for pick-up of a child that did not attend school or will not be riding the van. Clear communication between the parent and East Gate Kids is necessary for the safety of all concerned. A $5.00 charge will be assessed when a parent fails to notify East Gate Kids that a child will not be riding the van after the 1st warning. These fees are enforced as a part of our safety program. We take our responsibility seriously and if a child does not arrive for a van pick up from school, we will take measures to determine where the child is. Our van drivers must hold up van runs to check on the status of missing children. This results in delays in picking up other children from other schools. Please remember to call us sometime before 12:00 noon to advise us of non-attendance, after 12pm charges will apply. Returned Check Fees Full & Part Time Status Excess Charges Late Payment Fees Collection Fees Payment of Services Section 01 Discounts Miscellaneous Fees LACK OF NOTIFICATION FEES (SCHOOL AGE ONLY)

East Gate Kids is committed to providing a Christcentered environment in which Christian morals and values are present. As part of this commitment, the following holidays are observed and/or celebrated: In observance of the above holidays, East Gate Kids will be closed. All closures are posted throughout the facility, on social media, and on the ProCare application to remind parents of upcoming closings. While we recognize the value of family vacations, the center does not provide credit for vacations, holidays, or illness days. Celebrations of the above holidays and others not mentioned (such as Valentine's Day) do not necessarily mean that East Gate Kids will be closed. However, the teachers/staff may celebrate the holiday with a party or other celebration. Parents are notified by their child's teacher when holiday celebrations and/or other celebrations will be conducted in their classrooms. E a s t G a t e Non-Discrimination Statement HOLIDAYS K i d s At East Gate Kids Early Learning Center, equal educational opportunities are available for all children, without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, gender, age, ethnicity, religion, disability, parent/provider political beliefs, marital status, sexual orientation or special needs, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state or local laws. Educational programs are designed to meet the varying needs of all students. 06 Inclusion East Gate Kids believes that children of all ability levels are entitled to the same opportunities for participation, acceptance, and belonging in childcare. We will make every reasonable accommodation to encourage full and active participation of all children in our program based on his/her individual capabilities and needs. Americans with Disabilites Act East Gate Kids provides services for children with disabilities whose limitations can be reasonably accommodated. We require open and honest communication with administration and classroom staff regarding any physical or developmental concerns pertaining to your child. With your cooperation and, if needed, the assistance of healthcare professionals. Our program is designed to help meet children’s individual needs on a reasonable basis. Our goal is to provide excellence for your child, which can only be achieved through working together and open communicaton. East Gate Kids understands and appreciates that you trust us to take care of your children, even in severe weather conditions. Rest assured, we always strive to remain open during such circumstances. However, we kindly request you to stay informed about any closure notifications by watching your local news as we follow the APS closures. In the unfortunate event of a localized disaster or state of emergency, we may need to close. In such cases, EGK will do our best to communicate with you through a predetermined form of communication (i.e., ProCare, Facebook, or Constant Contact). If an emergency arises while your children are in our care, we will immediately contact you. Please note that regardless of any closures, there will be no reduction in your tuition. School Closure/Yearly Schedule Section 01

Disenrollment By Parent Consistent late pick-up Consistent late payments Lack of respect for the child’s teacher and/or Administration Threatening behavior Use of foul language Failure to comply with your ECECD contract stipulations Failure to comply with health and safety policies Director reserves the right to dis-enroll a student for the following reasons: At East Gate Kids, we are aware that disenrollment of a child from our center can occur for many reasons. Since enrollment is based on a financial obligation, the following procedures for disenrollment are applicable to avoid unnecessary charges. These procedures should be followed when a child's parent wishes to withdraw from East Gate Kids for any reason. Reasons for withdrawal from our program can range from various aspects, including moving, medical reasons, expulsion, financial or special needs. Step 1: Notify the Administration desk and/or Director, NOT THE TEACHER, of the exact date of withdrawal and the reasons thereof. Step 2: Complete a Disenrollment Form, which can be obtained from the Administration desk. Step 3: Parents MUST give East Gate Kids a two (2) week disenrollment notice in the form of a Disenrollment Form. Tuition is due and payable throughout this two (2) week period and is the parent's responsibility. This time period enables us to schedule a new student's arrival from new registration or the waiting list. Childcare services may be obtained during this two (2) week disenrollment period. Step 4: All financial arrangements must be met, and any outstanding balances are to be paid in full by the end of the two (2) week period. If a child has disenrolled and a balance remains, the uncollected amount will be immediately sent to a collection agency for collection. In cases of childcare assistance, the CYFD caseworker will be immediately notified of any outstanding balance. Disenrollment By Director If we feel we cannot meet the needs or requests of parents, we have the right to dis-enroll a student. If your child does not attend for ten (10) consecutive days without notice, the child will automatically be disenrolled, and the parent/guardian will receive a statement for the amount due. “AT WILL” Disenrollment East Gate Kids (EGK) staff members are required to respect the privacy of other staff, families, and children. Without written consent from authorized adults, EGK staff are not allowed to discuss sensitive information about other staff, families, and/or children unless required by law. Similarly, EGK employees cannot disclose any details about your child, including their enrollment status and attendance, unless you have provided written authorization for that specific person to receive such information. If you have concerns about another child enrolled in our school, EGK staff members cannot discuss them without obtaining consent from their parents or guardians. Parents are also prohibited from spreading gossip among the teachers to prevent conflicts within the staff. Violation of this policy may result in immediate disenrollment of the family. Confidentiality Policy 07 Section 01

East Gate Kids is committed to each student’s success in learning within a caring, responsive, and safe environment that is free of discrimination, violence, and bullying. Our center works to ensure that all students have the opportunity and support to develop to their fullest potential and share a personal and meaningful bond with people in the school community. Thoughtful direction and planning ahead are used to prevent problems and encourage appropriate behavior. Communicating consistent, clear rules and involving children in problem-solving help children develop their ability to become self-disciplined. We encourage children to be fair, respect other people and property, and learn to understand the results of their actions. A copy of the Guidance Policy is included in your enrollment package for you to review and sign. We have created a discipline policy that reflects our philosophy of positive guidance with children. Challenging Behavior Children are guided to treat each other and adults with self-control and kindness. Each student at East Gate Kids has a right to: • Learn in a safe and friendly place • Be treated with respect • Receive the help and support of caring adults when a child becomes verbally or physically aggressive; we intervene immediately to protect all of the children. Our usual approach to helping children with challenging behaviors is to show them how to solve problems using appropriate interactions. When discipline is necessary, it is clear, consistent, and understandable to the child. We maintain a zero tolerance to bullying. If you have any concerns about this at any time, please report it to the Director of the Center. Physical Restraint Physical restraint is not used or permitted for discipline. There are rare instances when we need to ensure a child’s safety or that of others and we may restrain a child by gently holding her or him only for as long as is necessary for control of the situation. Notification of Behavioral Issues to Families If a child’s behavior/circumstance is of concern, communication will begin with the parents as the first step to understanding the child’s individual needs and challenges. We will work together to evaluate these needs in the context of our program. On rare occasions, a child’s behavior may warrant the need to find a more suitable care setting. Examples of such instances include: • A child appears to be a danger to others. • Continued care could be harmful to or not in the child's best interest as determined by medical, psychological, or social service personnel. • Undue burden on our resources and finances for the child’s accommodations for success and participation. Guidance 08 Discipline Policy Policy Section 01 Children biting other children is an unavoidable situation in group childcare, especially with toddlers. It is a common occurrence in any childcare program. When it happens and sometimes continues, it can be scary, and very frustrating, and very stressful for children, parents, and staff. Every child in the Infant and Toddler classrooms is a potential biter or will potentially be a bit. It is important to understand that because a child bites, it does not mean that the child is "mean" or "bad," or that the parents of the child who bites are "bad" parents, or they are not doing their job as parents to make this stop happening. Biting is purely a sign of the developmental age of the child. It Is a developmental phenomenon - it often happens at predictable times for predictable reasons tied to children's ages and stages. As per our policy, if a child bites another child twice in a week, parents will be notified about the incident and asked for assistance. If the child bites again three times in a week, they will be suspended for the remainder of the day and the following day, and a parent conference will be scheduled to discuss the possibility of a one-week suspension in the future. If the child continues to bite three times a week, they will be suspended for one week. During this time, administrators and parents will work with a specialist who can provide support to both parents and teachers in finding diverse activities or experiences for the child. If no progress is made, the child may be disenrolled. It is important for parents to be willing to help and support their children throughout this process. Bitting Policy Prohibited discipline practices include: Physical punishment of any type, including shaking, biting, hitting, or putting anything in the child's mouth. Withdrawal of food, rest, bathroom access, or outdoor activities (a short "time-out" may be given while outside if needed) Abusive or profane language, which includes yelling directly at a child, any form of public or private humiliation, which includes any type of threat of physical punishment Unsupervised isolation of a child Any other type of punishment that is hazardous to the physical or mental health of a child. Acceptable forms of discipline include: Re-direction of the child's Positive guidance, which includes an explanation of the proper behavior versus the incorrect behavior, an Explanation of the rules and why they are in place, an Explanation of how the child's behavior affected others, "Refocus" period, which is set at 1-minute intervals not to exceed the child's age (EX: A 2 minute refocus period is the maximum time for a 2 year old)

Security Protocol Main Door Access Open Door Policy East Gate Kids has adopted security measures that either provide you with an access code to release the locks on the entrance doors or single-person monitored access (i.e., secured entry with doorbell access). Every authorized adult dropping or picking up your child must have their own access code where applicable. Please do not give your personal entrance code to anyone. We ask that you do not allow unauthorized individuals to enter the building. We understand that holding a door open for a person following you is polite; however, that person may not be authorized to be in our center. Be mindful of our secure entrance procedures so we can remain diligent in our security measures. Any suspicious person or any activity observed regarding the main doors access or any concerns regarding code security should be reported to the administration office immediately. Note: This policy is in place to ensure the safety and security of all children and staff at our center. By following these guidelines, we can maintain a secure environment for all involved. We are delighted to have family members participate in our program. Parents/Guardians are welcome to visit the program any time during regular program hours. The infant room welcomes parents/guardians to nurse or feed their infants. Open Door Policy does not mean the doors will be unlocked. For the safety and protection of the children, external doors will be kept locked at all times. Our team will always do their best to speak with parents/guardians. Since staff days are devoted to caring for children, it is usually not feasible to have a long discussion during regular program hours. If a situation requires a longer discussion, kindly arrange for an appointment. 09 Section 02 East Gate Kids utilizes a reliable and encrypted computerized platform to facilitate the sign-in and sign-out process for children. Upon enrollment, each parent or guardian will be given a unique personal identification number (PIN) that must be used on a daily basis when signing their child in or out. In the unlikely event that the computer system is unavailable, parents are required to use their mobile phones to digitally clock in or out their children. For the safety and security of the children, we strictly adhere to a policy of releasing children only to adults who are 18 years of age or older and have been authorized by the family/guardians. To ensure proper authorization, EGK requests the submission of appropriate documentation as outlined below. Signing Your Child In and Out EGK enrollment Application ensures that only authorized individuals can pick up your child/ren, and any changes to the list must be provided in writing. We prioritize the safety and security of your child and will not release them to anyone who is not authorized by a parent or guardian. For individuals without a PIN, we require a government-issued photo ID for verification. Our staff members are also authorized to ask for the same. In situations where a teacher is not familiar with the person picking up a student, they will request verification. It is important to note that once signed out, the parent/guardian is fully responsible for the child. Additionally, all authorized personnel must be at least 18 years old. Authorized and Unauthorized Pick-Up

East Gate Kids Drop-Off and Pick-Up Procedures We request that you accompany your child into the building each day. This is an essential safety measure that supports your child's transition into their academic day. Once inside the classroom, please ensure that both you and your child wash your hands. Additionally, assist your child in storing their personal belongings, which helps create a smooth shift from your care to the learning environment. If your child is feeling anxious, rest assured that the classroom teacher is trained in comforting and assisting them as you depart. At the end of the day, please greet your child in their classroom and acknowledge the teacher. As a precautionary measure, we kindly ask that you not permit your child to leave their teacher's presence without permission, thus helping maintain a safe environment. During drop off and pick up, we request that you refrain from using your cell phone. This time is important for you to interact with your child's teacher, exchange information, and build a sense of school family. If there are any changes to your pick up or drop off schedule, or if there is a different person designated for pick up, kindly notify the front desk in advance. Child Custody and Visitation Without a court document, both parents/guardians have equal rights to custody. We are legally bound to respect the wishes of the parent/guardian with legal custody based on a copy of the most recent court order, active restraining order, or court-ordered visitation schedule. We will not accept the responsibility of deciding which parent/guardian has legal custody where there is no court documentation. We will file your documentation in your child’s file and will treat them as strictly confidential. We will honor all legal parental rights when appropriate court orders are not provided. All legal guardians can add and/or remove authorized adults from the child’s Registration Application. Children Left After Closing If your child has not been picked up by closing time, the onduty supervisor will attempt to contact you. If no contact is made within 15 minutes, the supervisor will attempt to contact all emergency contacts on your child's enrollment form. If no one is reached who is authorized to pick up your child within 30 minutes after closing, we will contact Child Protective Services and the Police. Occasionally, photos will be taken of the children at the center for use within the center or on our website. Written permission will be obtained prior to the use of photographs. East Gate Kids uses photos and videos of children for research, documentation, print materials, social media, and portfolios and also takes class photos at the end of the year. Parents will have two options to choose from: 1. YES Photographed 2. NO Photographed, if you choose to NOT ALLOW your child to be photographed, they will not be included in ANY photos/videos during their time at East Gate Kids, including class photos, social media, ProCare app, etc. Publicity If East Gate Kids staff, in good faith and based on their training, believes that an adult picking up a child may be under the influence, the staff reserves the right to postpone the pick-up. Our front desk staff will then reach out to other custodial parents in an effort to resolve the situation. It is important to note that, according to the law, we cannot deny a custodial parent immediate access to their child, even if impairment is suspected. However, we will take every possible measure to ensure the safety of the child, including contacting the Albuquerque Police Department and/or Child Protective Services. If any other authorized person who appears to be impaired attempts to pick up a child, they will be denied access. In such cases, our staff will promptly contact the child's immediate family for further instructions and assistance. Right to Refuse Child Release East Gate Kids Early Learning Center prioritizes the safety and wellbeing of families, children, and staff by maintaining a smoke-free environment. Smoking, including the use of vape pens, is strictly prohibited. We also prohibit the use, possession, and sale of drugs or alcohol on our premises. Any violation of this policy may lead to the dismissal of your child(ren). The possession of firearms or any weapons is only allowed for authorized law enforcement officers. East Gate Kids provides transportation services for school-aged children to and from local public schools and field trips. We use vehicles or leased vehicles as needed. To ensure the safety and well-being of your child, please fill out the Transportation Permission Form and EGK Van Transportation Form. These forms are necessary, and we cannot transport your child without them on file. It is important that school-aged children arrive at the center before their designated departure times. If they do not, it will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian to provide transportation. All children are transported by qualified staff on EGK vehicles. Attendance is recorded at the time of departure and pick up. If there are any changes to your or your child's schedule, please inform the front desk staff immediately. We cannot assume that your child will be absent in the afternoon if they are not present in the morning. It is your responsibility to communicate absences directly to the front desk staff or School Age Director. By following our transportation procedures, you help us ensure the safety of your child. Smoke, Drug & Weapon-Free ZoneTransportation East Gate Kids cannot be held responsible for any theft or loss of personal items. To ensure the safety of your child/ren, please remember to always turn off your car, securely lock it, and remove any valuable belongings when picking up or dropping off. Personal Items Disclaimer 10 Section 02

Health East Gate Kids understands that a healthy environment is a key criterion for quality care and education. Whether it be handwashing policies, nutrition education, and/or ensuring all East Gate Kids staff are trained in CPR and first aid, we recognize that health and safety procedures are a priority. We adhere to New Mexico state regulations and accreditation standards regarding our Sick Child Policy. We have fully equipped kitchens and a trained Nutrition and Safety Coordinator on staff so that we can assure the service of nutritious and well-balanced meals. Our Direcror will provide you with applicable Child Health Services when needed, as well as support for your family. East Gate Kids, in compliance with state regulations, will exclude from care any child who exhibits the signs and symptoms of illness. If your child becomes ill a parent or authorized contact person will be called to pick up the child immediately from our program. While your child waits for pick up, they will rest quietly, separated from the other children. & Safety Illness/Sick Child Policy We ask that you help us maintain the healthiest environment for all children by keeping your child/ren home when they are sick. Please refrain from bringing your child to school when they exhibit the following: 11 Section 03 We are required by law to report any suspected case of notifiable communicable diseases to the local health department. It is the parent’s responsibility to inform us of a notifiable communicable disease their child or children may have been exposed to. If your child is exposed to a notifiable communicable disease, our center will notify the appropriate parents/guardians that their child may have been exposed as well and recommend proper action be taken. Notifiable Communicable Diseases

Child's name Description of medication Dosage Time(s) to be administered Medication directions in the original medication Parent's signature and initials East Gate Kids cannot administer any medication, including vitamins, over-the-counter medications, and sunscreen, without written permission from a parent or guardian. Medication slips are available at the reception desk and in each classroom. Medication slips must be completed on a daily basis and left with the child's teacher along with the medication. NEVER LEAVE MEDICINE OR MEDICINE SLIPS IN DIAPER BAGS, TOTE BAGS, ETC., OR IN A CHILD'S CUBBY. Medication slips must be completed in their entirety to include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. MEDICATIONS MUST ALWAYS REMAIN INACCESSIBLE TO ALL CHILDREN. Medications must be in the original container, as prescribed by a physician, for the individual child. Children cannot share medications. Medications requiring special handling or procedures must be explained thoroughly to the child's teacher before administering. East Gate Kids reserves the right to refuse to give medication and is not responsible for any ill effects arising from the administering of medications at the parent's request or instructions. Non-prescription medications, such as ibuprofen, cough syrup, etc. will be dispensed in accordance with state regulations and must be stored in their original containers. Lotions, sunscreens, and/or diaper creams will only be applied with parental written permission. Prior notice and written notification will be provided before allowing any outside pets to visit the school. If parents/guardians wish to bring a special guest (pet) to their child's classroom, they must inform the Director beforehand. East Gate Kids strictly prohibits the entry of any pets or animals that are wild, hazardous, unvaccinated, or known to exhibit aggression. Furthermore, all pets must be adequately sheltered, fed, and ethically maintained. It is mandatory to adhere to handwashing procedures when handling and caring for all pets and animals. We will post and notify parents in writing before outside pets visit their children’s classroom to avoid allergies. Cleanliness Medication Pet Visits Children enrolled at East Gate Kids must maintain a current immunization record. The State of New Mexico requires us to have on file a current, up-to-date immunization record for each child enrolled at East Gate Kids. Children will not be allowed to attend East Gate Kids after the 2nd warning without a current immunization record or appropriate waiver on file. Parents and/or guardians of children under the age of 18 are responsible for keeping immunization records current as the child has been administered additional immunizations. 3. Changing tables are disinfected after every diaper change, and Infant/Toddler beds are immediately changed and disinfected if soiled. 4. Sheets and mat covers are washed or sent home weekly, and mats are disinfected daily. Diaper pails and trash cans are emptied to prevent spillage or odor. Dishes are washed in a timely manner by kitchen staff. 5. Bathrooms are cleaned and sanitized nightly and throughout the day. 6. Classrooms are kept tidy and free of clutter to ensure a safe learning environment. In case of accidents involving urine, fecal matter, vomit, or blood, the area is immediately cleaned and disinfected, and children may be temporarily moved to another classroom for drying time. Toys are wash with a mild bleach solution according to State regulations. Hand-washing is practiced according to the State Health Department Regulations, including washing hands with soap after diaper changes or assisting with bathroom activities, before serving food, and after using the bathroom. We enforce a policy that includes thorough sanitation procedures to prevent the spread of germs and illnesses. Hand washing is mandatory for all staff and teachers before serving food and after handling diaper changes or bathroom activities. If this requirement is not met, please inform the Director. Our sanitation procedures consist of disinfecting all areas, including; 1. 2. Immunization 12 Section 03

& Injuries The CACFP program is essential to East Gate Kids' curriculum, and because we participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program, we DO NOT ALLOW outside food or drink to be brought into the center without a doctor's note. We discourage any outside food from being brought from home. If a child arrives at school with food, they will be required to sit with their parent until the food is consumed or disposed of. For our 10 am Drop off Policy, parents are kindly requested to drop off their children before 10am. This ensures that children have sufficient time to settle in and engage in learning activities. If parents need to drop off their child after 10am, they must present a valid and documented reason for the late arrival. If parents anticipate a late arrival and are unable to provide documentation, we kindly request that you notify us at least one hour before 10am. This will allow us to make the necessary arrangements to ensure minimal disruption to the learning activities in progress and teacher’s schedules. Keep in mind that we track the time, if you arrive at 10:01 am at the main doors, we wouldn’t be able to accept your child. Although East Gate Kids provides trainings to all staff on the proper supervision and care of young children, there may still be occasions when your child might sustain injuries or dental injuries. It is common for children in group care to experience minor bumps and bruises. In such cases, the staff will provide basic first aid. However, if further care is required, we will advise you to consult your physician or seek emergency medical or dental assistance. All accidents and incidents will be immediately reported to the administrative staff, and an accident/incident report will be completed. These reports will be available for your review and necessitate your signature during pick-up. They will also be placed in your child's file. If you have any concerns regarding an incident involving your child, you may request a conference to discuss them with the appropriate staff. Family Nutrition We acknowledge the prevalence of food allergies and dietary restrictions in young children. A doctor's note will be necessary to outline any special dietary requirements. Our front desk team will collaborate with you to review our menu and ensure appropriate accommodations are made in accordance with CACFP guidelines. We do not serve any peanut products due to the high number of children with peanut allergies. In the case of religious or cultural preferences, written information is required to inform our front desk staff to provide substitute food options. Camera viewing is specifically for the use of management for quality assurance, observation, and staff accountability. The administration daily observes the cameras to make sure our standards of care are being met. Due to legal reasons and to protect the privacy of other children in the program, we do not allow viewing unless legally obligated. If an incident of a serious nature occurs, we can provide documentation of any occurrence. Under the current policy, parents and teachers have the option to fill out a camera footage review form. Once the form is submitted, an administrator will review the requested footage. After the review is complete, the parties involved will be notified about the observations made from the camera footage. East Gate Kids participates in the Federal Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We offer nutritious and home-cooked meals prepared by our own cooks on a daily basis. Our teachers strive to create a friendly and ” family style” for your child, with an emphasis on teaching them table manners, social skills, and independence. Through the use of childsized utensils, bowls, and pitchers, we encourage your child(ren) to serve themselves, promoting the development of their motor and self-help skills. Our dedicated teachers ensure that every dining experience is a positive one, centered around nutrition and wellness. Additionally, we provide a monthly nutrition education curriculum. Accidents Cameras Purpose 10 A.M. Drop Off Policy CACFP Food From Home Allergies & Dietary Restrictions 13 Section 03

Our center participates in the Child and Adult Care Food Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. According to ECECD regulations, children must be provided a meal every 3 hours in accordance with the USDA Food Program. Children must be served nutritious, portion-appropriate servings in a family dining style. Due to the size of our facility and the number of children served on a daily basis, our meal times are scheduled in shifts and are adhered to strictly. Breakfast is served between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 9:15 a.m. (School-age breakfast is served from 7:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.). Breakfast times will vary from classroom to classroom and are posted in the classroom's daily schedule. Lunch is served between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Lunch times will also vary from classroom to classroom and will be served family style. All meals are served in the children's classrooms. Afternoon snack is served between the hours of 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Children arriving after the scheduled mealtime may be offered food if the child appears hungry. Please notify your child's teacher if your child has already eaten prior to attendance that day. If a child is scheduled to arrive after a meal, such as lunch, parents are encouraged to call the center and notify the teacher so that a meal can be saved to feed the child upon arrival. In all cases, children will eat in a familystyle format. They will sit down in chairs at tables, pass the food from one child to another, and serve themselves. Children as young as 15 months old learn by doing. All food and drink are served in child-friendly containers so the children can learn more quickly. All eating and drinking take place at a table. In the case of bottle-feeding an infant, the child will be held if the child is unable to hold their cup/bottle themselves. Children are not allowed to walk around a classroom with bottles or sippy cups. Infants will not be laid down to sleep with a bottle. Meals Our center will provide breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack. Milk or juice is served with all the meals and snacks, and water is offered throughout the day. The meals and snacks for each week constantly vary to ensure the children receive a wellbalanced diet. The children are offered the food, but they will not be forced to eat. It is our goal to offer nutritious meals and snacks to the children in our care, as nutrition is a vital part of a child's health. Children should not bring food except in case of allergies or special diets prescribed by a physician. A doctor’s note is required for all food brought from home, including special milk and snacks. Food allergies can be life-threatening, and each child with a food allergy should have an action plan for emergency care completed by the family physician. Monthly menus are posted on the Program board and are available at the beginning of every week on ProCare. All food products are purchased weekly, biweekly, or monthly. The perishable products are bought fresh weekly. Our mealtimes are as follows: Breakfast: 7:00 AM – 9:15 AM (Including School Age) Lunch: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Snack: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Children who are dropped off at the center after 9:15 a.m. should have already eaten breakfast. If attending for the day, all children must be here by 10:00 AM. (Exception: Doctor or dental appointment with an advance notice and Dr. excuse when arriving at the center.) Our infant care policy focuses on accommodating your infant's feeding schedule. We provide personalized attention during feeding times by holding, talking, and singing to the infants. For bottle-fed infants, we request you to provide properly labeled bottles with your child's name. At East Gate Kids, we strongly encourage and support breastfeeding. You are welcome to visit during the day to breastfeed your child. To ensure the safety and freshness of breast milk, please label and date it and note that it can only be stored for a maximum of 48 hours. If you have any questions or concerns regarding infant feeding or your child's development, our experts are readily available to provide guidance and assistance. Infants & Breastfeeding Outline of 14 Section 03

Philosophy & Curriculum Nature Based Learning Reggio Emilia Approach Recognizing the benefits of nature for promoting whole-child development and environmental literacy, nature is at the heart of the curriculum in a nature-based preschool. Learning opportunities are place-based, seasonal, and authentic experiences that emerge from children’s interactions and evolving relationships with the natural world. The following practices help programs put nature at the heart of the curriculum. Practices 1. Teachers familiarize children with the plants, animals, and natural features and phenomena in their surroundings. 2. Teachers support and encourage children’s play and investigations with natural materials. 3. Classroom activities cross boundaries between indoor and outdoor learning environments and between different types of outdoor environments 4. Teachers promote learning from season to season, supporting children’s understanding of patterns and changes through the seasons. 5. Teachers model care and concern for nature and the environment. 6. Human communities are considered part of, and dependent upon, the natural environment. 7. The entire learning community engages in environmentally friendly practices. The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational philosophy focusing on preschool and primary education. It was created after WWII by a teacher in Reggio Emilia, Italy, where the approach gets its name. After the war, educators and families believed that children needed new ways of learning to cultivate young minds as an investment in the future. The Reggio Emilia approach was developed to help children learn in this new framework. The basics of the Reggio Emilia approach Using a self-guided curriculum, children are allowed to express themselves in different ways as they develop their personality. Activities such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and drama are encouraged, as these are all seen as “languages” children use. By allowing children to engage in meaningful learning experiences, the Reggio Emilia approach helps to instill a love of learning, enhances early education, and prepares children for the transition into school. The Philosophy Under the Reggio Emilia approach, children are viewed as active, capable, and valuable community members. They are encouraged to explore, question, and interpret the world during the first five years of life, as creating a solid foundation of experiences during these early years helps each child reach their full potential. Educators using the Reggio Emilia approach believe children should have some control over their learning. Children have many languages in art, music, and drama, and they should be encouraged to learn through experiences like listening, moving, touching and observing. 15 Section 05

Blocks/Transportation: Children develop spatial awareness and problem-solving skills by playing with blocks and transportation toys and learning to collaborate with others. This also fosters their imagination, creativity, self-esteem, and sense of accomplishment. Science/Sensory: Children engage their senses to explore materials, form predictions, and develop their own understanding of scientific concepts. They learn science terms, enjoy the natural world, and engage in both open-ended and teacher-initiated activities. Math: Children explore number concepts, connections between sizes and shapes, sorting, patterns, and numerical correspondence through hands-on activities. Math is integrated into everyday experiences and teacher-child interactions. Dramatic Play: Through role-playing, puppet manipulation, and story dramatization, children learn how to interact with others, build language skills, and develop problem-solving abilities. They also practice self-regulation and conflict resolution. Art: Children express their thoughts and ideas using various art materials. They develop early writing and math skills by drawing familiar shapes lines, and exploring different art tools. Small group: teachers and children work together to support individual learning experiences. Teachers provide materials and instructions that allow children to enhance their learning through direct experiences. We address all developmental and educational learning areas to meet the desired learning outcomes for children. Large Group: Both children and teachers come together as a group to share experiences, discuss play plans, and develop motor skills through music and movement. This promotes a sense of community and positive relationships. We prioritize social and emotional development. During group routines, children gain self-regulation skills and an understanding of their emotions. Positive redirection is integrated into our daily routine to promote problemsolving. Our behavioral strategies focus on helping children identify and label their emotions, cooperate with others, and respect their peers' ideas and suggestions. We refer to these behaviors as "Pro-Social" behaviors. Additional Support of Curriculum Learning Young children can initiate their own learning. Children should take part in creating the curriculum. The classroom environment is a “third teacher.” Children should have time to create and express themselves in a variety of ways. The core ideas of Reggio Emilia are: The teachers The teacher is seen as someone who collaborates with students rather than just instructing them. There is no set curriculum or testing program, and children may stay with one teacher for up to three years to create a consistent learning relationship. Teachers will often plan lessons based on each child’s interest and continuously ask the child questions to further engage them, rather than just assigning an activity and observing. Parents and the community The Reggio Emilia approach emphasizes the collective responsibility of parents and the community in providing education. It values the active involvement of children, parents, and the community in the learning process. Parents are considered partners and the first teachers for their children. Reggio Emilia schools encourage constant communication between teachers and families, and parents are encouraged to volunteer and apply the approach at home. The importance of the environment The Reggio Emilia approach emphasizes the importance of a beautiful and stimulating environment for children. Indoor spaces at Reggio Emilia schools are natureinspired, with plants, natural light, and mirrors to create a sense of space. Open common areas and galleries display student artwork. In our intentionally designed classrooms, we prioritize your child's learning experience. With a variety of accessible and developmentally appropriate materials, we aim to foster hands-on learning. Our classrooms are equipped with learning centers that allow children to work at their own pace, encouraging exploration, problem-solving, and peer interactions. These learning centers offer a range of experiences, providing opportunities for your child to engage with: Language Arts/Writing Areas: Children develop their writing skills in the language arts/writing areas by creating marks and scribbles that resemble letter shapes with the assistance of literacy materials. The development of fine motor skills plays a crucial role in preparing children for pre-writing and early literacy tasks. Reading/Library: Children develop a joy for books. They will build an understanding that print has a meaning that can be shared by engaging in a conversation with the teacher or a peer. 16 Section 05

Learning East Gate Kids has four playgrounds for the children enrolled in our center. The largest playground is for children aged three and up, located on the North side of the building. The two-year-olds have their own playground on the West side, while the toddlers have one outside their classroom. There is also a small grassy playground for the 4-year-olds used mainly for reading groups and small activities. To ensure safety, the children are supervised by teachers at all times, and video surveillance cameras are in place. The playgrounds are locked at night to prevent vandalism and unwelcome visitors. While regular inspections are conducted, there may be instances of trash or other items appearing on the premises. Our staff is dedicated to maintaining a clean and safe playground. If any suspicious visitors are seen, the police will be called. For safety, we use sand as the fall zone material. Grassy areas are available for group sports and water play. However, please be aware that sand can easily make children dirty throughout the day. We recommend not sending your child in clothing that you do not want to get soiled. Environment Environment as The Third Teacher Outdoor Playgrounds A student's classroom environment serves as more than just a backdrop to their learning. Many modern theorists, inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, consider the environment to act as a “third teacher” to the learner. The “first teacher” includes the adults that contribute to the child’s learning. The “second teacher” includes the child’s peers. The “third teacher” includes the space in which one learns. With this approach in mind, it is important to put careful thought into the intentional design of a student learning space. A learning space needs to meet the needs of the students. To maximize its positive impact on learners, the space must be welcoming, flexible, content-rich, and organized. Although these learning space characteristics might seem intuitive, consider the traditional classroom environment: teacher-selected posters lining the painted cement block walls, hard chairs and desks arranged in rows facing the front of the room, a teacher's desk at the front of the room facing the student desks, and a bare linoleum floor. 17 Section 06

Classes FOCUS Licensing Capacity Infant 1:4 1:6 12 Pink 1:4 1:6 12 Teal 1:4 1:6 17 Green 1:6 1:10 17 Yellow 1:6 1:10 13 Purple 1:9 1:12 13 Blue 1:9 1:12 17 Juniper 1:10 1:14 17 Pine Tree 1:10 1:15 28 SA 1:12 1:15 80 Youth 1:12 1:15 35 At East Gate Kids, we believe that children's daily schedules should be consistent but flexible enough to meet the individual child's needs. Daily schedules provide a balance of active and quiet activities throughout the day, as well as fostering opportunities for free choice activities. Daily schedules provide an appropriate amount of time for routine care and activities. Daily schedules should allow children to be able to: • Initiate and engage in their own play • Participate in small group activities • Participate in large group activities • Participate in teacher-directed activities Daily schedules provide for the daily, routine care of a child, including: • Arrival and departure • Toileting and diapering • Hand washing • Mealtimes • Rest time • Clean up times • Special activities Daily Schedule Ratios & Room East Gate Kids adheres to the New Mexico State Licensing Regulations regarding ratios in each of our classrooms. Classroom capacity signs are also located in each classroom. The teacher/child ratios effective March 2016 are as follows: Outdoor Playtime East Gate Kids is a non-smoking facility. Please do not smoke while onpremises for the health and safety of our children and employees. Green Zone Yellow Zone Red Zone Children will play outdoors as the weather permits, in temperatures above 30 degrees and below 100 degrees. It is important for the children to have fresh air, new worlds to explore, and a wider field of play. If a child is too ill to go outside, he/she is too ill to be at the Center. Teacher’s temperature guidelines: HOT WEATHER 1. If the temperature outside exceeds 80°F (27°C), outdoor activities are considered comfortable. 2. When the temperature reaches 90°F (32°C), some individuals may feel uncomfortable. Please be mindful of the students' well-being, especially those sensitive to heat. Consider adjusting the intensity or duration of outdoor activities to ensure their comfort. 3. It is considered dangerous Once the temperature reaches 100°F (38°C). Under no circumstances should children be exposed to these extreme temperatures. COLD WEATHER When the temperature is above 30 degrees, if you properly bundle the children with layers, hats, gloves, and scarves, they will be able to play comfortably outdoors. 20-30 degrees are classified into our Yellow Zone. We recommend reducing their playtime to 5 minutes. Below 20 degrees. Keep the children indoors. These guidelines aim to protect our students from heatrelated risks such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heatstroke. 18 Section 06

Grow together For Success Get Ready for the First Day No matter if it's your child's first day in early care and education or their first day of college, starting a new school always brings anxiety. But don't worry; we're here to make the transition easy for you. We've gathered some useful tips to help you and your child through this journey smoothly: ❏ Communicate Expectations – Talk to your child before the first day of school about what they should expect. Talk about all the fun they will have and how happy their teacher is going to be to have them in their classroom. Review their daily schedule with them so they know they will have meals and will rest while they are at school. Remind them that you will return and will want to know all the exciting things that happened while you were apart. - Communicate expectations with your child’s teacher. We understand that you will be anxious too, and how hard it is to leave your child in a new environment. Share your child’s habits, interests, likes and dislikes. Be assured that we are here for you. Feel free to call and talk to your child’s teacher anytime while you are away. ❏ Be Positive and Encouraging – Children will sense the attitudes of the adults around them. It is important to be positive with your child while they transition into a new environment. Change is hard, but it also can be exciting and filled with new opportunities. Talk about the new friends they will make, the new toys they will play with, and the books they will read. This will help your child be excited to have new experiences and look forward to school. ❏ Spend Time with Us – do not hesitate to spend time in the classroom enjoying all the new experiences with your child. Volunteer and embrace the new community your family is now a part of. ❏ Develop a Drop-Off Ritual – Say goodbye and offer a hug. Separation from a parent is an important event for a young child and can be stressful. It is normal for children to experience anxiety; do not be afraid to ask the staff for assistance. Our staff are experienced and trained to guide your child into their day. Do not sneak away, it is important for your child to have that final assurance that you will be back and it is OK to have a great day. ❏ Bring a Family Poster – Many children find comfort in having something from home as a part of their classroom. A family picture collage provides a reflection of themselves in their school environment and creates a sense of security and continuity between home and school. ❏ Allow Your Child Time to Adjust – Every child will adjust to a new situation differently. It is important to be patient during your child’s transition. Please know that we are always available to work with you and your family. Never hesitate to ask. 19 Section 07

E a s t G a t e K i d s Toilet Learning E a rly L e a r nin g C e n t e r At East Gate Kids, we take pride in our important role in helping your child with their toilet learning. Our dedicated teachers and staff will closely collaborate with you to ensure a seamless transition between home and school while maintaining a positive environment for toilet learning. Prior to beginning toilet learning, there are two essential factors that need to be in place for a child: 1.) Physiological Ability – most children develop the ability to control their bowels between the ages of two and three. A typical sign of bladder muscle control is when a child is aware they have soiled their diaper; this can be as simple as separating themselves from group play when wetting or pointing to their diaper. 2.) Desire on the Part of the Child – some signs are the child’s ability to manipulate their own clothing, sitting on the potty without being directed, and/or articulate they have wet themselves. Keep in mind that we will NOT force any child to use the toilet, nor will we punish children for not using the toilet. Attempting to potty train a child before they are ready can be detrimental to their normal growth and development. At East Gate Kids, we understand the importance of daily rest/naptime for your child's development and wellbeing. This designated quiet period allows them to take a break from group care and recharge. To ensure each child's comfort, we provide individual cots labeled with their names. You are welcome to bring a blanket from home. We prioritize a gentle approach toward sleep and never force children to sleep. Instead, we encourage them to rest and be respectful and quiet while their peers rest. For those who prefer not to sleep, we have a variety of individual activities available to engage them. When it comes to infants, we adhere to the Academy of American Pediatrics' 'Safe Sleep' standards. This means implementing safety precautions such as avoiding bumper pads, swaddling bibs, soft toys, pillows, blankets, and pacifiers with strings attached. If you have a medical reason that necessitates a deviation from our safe sleep plan, we kindly ask for a physician's note to ensure your child's specific needs are met and their safety is prioritized. Rest/Nap Time Positive Guidance and Redirection East Gate Kids adhere to the following policies: ❏ Physical punishment in any form is prohibited. ❏ No child will ever be humiliated or frightened. ❏ Verbal abuse is prohibited. Harsh or profane language and threats of any kind will not be used. ❏ No child will ever be denied food, toileting, outside play, or rest privileges as a form of punishment. Our policy focuses on using positive guidance and redirection to help children address unwanted behaviors. Our teachers will support children in managing negative emotions and finding alternatives to challenging social interactions. We will communicate with children using positive yet firm language, establish clear and consistent boundaries, and set appropriate expectations based on their stage of development. We are committed to supporting your child's social skills development by providing opportunities for them to learn pro-social skills. We will recognize and praise children for appropriate and positive behaviors and encourage their self-regulation. Our approach involves emphasizing and reinforcing desired behaviors while minimizing attention given to unwanted interactions. We will incorporate self-calming techniques, breathing exercises, problem-solving strategies, and choices into the daily experiences of young children to foster positive growth. If a child consistently exhibits inappropriate behavior, our director will follow the East Gate Kids Behavior Management Plan. A parent meeting will be required to develop a specific program that all parties agree upon, which will be implemented during daily programming. If these efforts do not lead to improvement or if the inappropriate behavior poses a risk to the health or safety of other children or staff, it may result in the child being disenrolled from our program. 20 Section 07

Personal Items Injury Notification Forms: These forms are sent home when a child is injured in the scope of his/her day. Information is provided on these forms that indicate how the accident/injury occurred and what first aid was performed. These forms are also provided for parents to take to their pediatricians in verification of an injury. These reports are used for minor and major injuries. In cases where a child has sustained an injury from another child, an Injury Notification Form and an Incident Report will be completed. State regulations prohibit us from releasing the name of the other child (ren) involved. In cases where a child has fallen, and no visible sign of injury is present, an Incident Report will be completed to advise the parent to watch for signs of bruising or other signs of injury that may appear later. ECECD Licensing Requirements require us to record and document all injuries, accidents, and incidents involving injury, regardless of severity. Incident Reports: These forms are sent home to inform parents when a child is involved in an incident at the center. Whether it is an accident resulting in injury or a behavioral problem, these forms communicate with the parent what the child was involved in. At no time will we indicate the other child (ren) involved in the incident. This is considered confidential information. However, we are fully aware that your child (ren) can verbally communicate who the other child (ren) was and their actions. We encourage parents to discuss the incident reported with their child. All Incident Reports should be signed and returned to EGK with a copy kept by the parent. A copy of the Incident Report is maintained in the child's file. We strongly encourage that personal items such as toys, jewelry, money, personal video game devices, cellphones, etc., do not come with the children to our center. These items can get lost, stolen, misplaced or damaged. East Gate Kids is not responsible for these items. We also strongly encourage School-Age children to take responsibility for any personal items they may have in their backpacks and/or purses, such as water bottles, school supplies, or any of the above-named items. Again, East Gate Kids is not responsible for lost, misplaced, stolen, or damaged items. You will need to provide a seasonally appropriate change of clothing for your child. We ask that you include a change of socks and underwear and that all clothing be labeled with your child’s name. Accidents do happen, and we do not want to call you while you are at school or work. Please check with your child’s teacher for soiled clothing or to ensure that what is stored is seasonally appropriate. Bring a change of Clothes We recognize the importance of teachers in fostering children's social-emotional development and reaching emotional milestones. We prioritize psychological well-being, as it is crucial for healthy growth. Our curriculum and daily interactions focus on building language skills, enhancing communication, and teaching self-regulation. We help children understand and express their emotions, as well as direct their energy in positive ways. Our goal is to build a safe and nurturing community that guides young children through their emotional development. We promote mental wellness by: ❏ Creating classrooms that are supportive, responsive, respectful, and interactive. ❏ Teaching effective social, communication, and problemsolving skills. ❏ Identifying and referring children who may exhibit signs of emotional and/ or behavioral difficulties such as excessive anger, aggressive behavior, or difficulty making and/or keeping friends. We work collaboratively with families to find appropriate community resources or health consultants. In the event of a mental health emergency, we will call the child’s legal guardian unless their health and well-being are in jeopardy. Mental Health and Wellness Incident/Injuries Reports Birthday Celebrations Parents can send store-bought treats in for the entire childcare group. (Ask the Director or teacher in advance for the number needed.) Do not bring invitations to personal birthday parties to Child Care unless the child's entire class is invited. We are PEANUT FREE Center Due to the extreme nature of allergic reactions to Peanuts and products containing peanuts in some children, Educational Playcare does not serve any products that contain peanuts. We also require that when food is brought in by parents, whether as a "treat or birthday treat" or as an alternative food choice for their child, that they comply with this requirement. 21 Section 07

Family/Community Engagement Family Involvement Community Partnership Volunteer to read to your child’s classroom (great opportunity for grandparents) Introduce or share a special family custom or tradition, craft, and/or talent Volunteer to chaperone on a field trip and/or other special classroom event Participate in playground clean-up days, such as the school garden Be a pet caregiver and help clean the classroom pets’ tank or cage Play a musical instrument, dance/exercise or come sing with your child’s friends At East Gate Kids. we understand the importance of a strong partnership between family and school to provide a successful and inspired education for your child. Your involvement is critical to both the school and your child's development and growth while here at East Gate Kids. We look forward to having a strong partnership with all our families. There are many ways in which you can be involved in the program, such as: Your involvement at our events is a vital part of our program and an opportunity to build friendships with other families. Donate special or seasonal collage materials for the art area. Donate junk mail, old envelopes, sticky notes, and other writing center materials to encourage your child’s creative play. Mend or sew ripped or torn dress-up clothing. Provide special objects from nature, such as gourds, rocks, pinecones, etc., to enhance your child’s classroom science area. Make homemade blocks from old boxes and encourage recycling in your home. There are other ways for you to be a great community partner. You can still participate in your child’s academic success in other ways, such as: EGK will provide your family with two parent group meetings yearly (required for all Prek programs). We invite you to participate in family community events and special-themed or Family Nights each semester. Ask in your child’s classroom to stay informed and included. Workshops, pamphlets, and/or handouts to assist your family through these early years are always available. 22 Section 08

E a s t G a t e K i d s Parent/Teacher E a rly L e a r nin g C e n t e r Parent conferences will be scheduled twice a year. A written notice indicating the exact dates and times will be sent home when the conferences are approaching. The conferences are a good time for teachers to discuss your child's developmental progress with you. Parents are always welcome to request a conference at anytime during the year if they feel it is warranted. Conferences Family Code of Conduct if A child Is Missing At times, it is natural for questions, concerns, and conflicts to arise. We strive to be of assistance to you and resolve any worries you may have in a proactive and positive way. If the concern pertains to your child's classroom, we kindly request that you initiate the discussion with their classroom teacher. Rest assured that all conversations will remain confidential and will not impact your child's treatment. If you believe the concern is of a more significant nature, please feel free to discuss it with the director or administrative team. Parent Conflict Resolution At East Gate Kids, adheres to strict supervision policies as outlined by our national standards of care, this helps assure that no child is left unattended. Our teachers take attendance of their class before exiting outside and when returning back to the classroom. If a child is found to be missing, after a thorough search, the parent will be notified, and a report will be filed with the Albuquerque Police Department and Children, Youth and Families. At East Gate Kids, we are dedicated to your child's well-being and fostering a positive school community. To ensure a safe and suitable environment for young children, we uphold a code of conduct that applies to both our staff and families. We expect all adults to behave with respect, courtesy, kindness, and decency. Our main priority is the well-being of the children, and we will not tolerate any behaviors or language that are deemed unacceptable. Failure to abide by these guidelines may result in the removal of the offending adult from the facility. The following actions are strictly prohibited: 1. Yelling, screaming, or verbally abusing your child's teacher or any other adult. We expect all disagreements to be handled in a respectful and calm manner. 2. Using foul language, cursing, or engaging in inappropriate conversations in classrooms or in the presence of children. 3. Physically confronting anyone in any way. 4. Inflicting physical or verbal punishment on your or any other child. The use of corporal punishment in any form is strictly prohibited on our premises. 5. Smoking, consuming alcohol, or any substance abuse on East Gate Kids property. By adhering to these guidelines, together we can maintain a safe, respectful, and nurturing learning environment for all children at East Gate Kids. A copy of the complete Family Code of Conduct Policy is included in your enrollment package for you to review and sign. 23 Section 08

Our Leadership Team Equal Opportunity Report Child Abuse East Gate Kids is an equal opportunity child care provider. We accept applications for admission without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion or any other status protected by law. Effective immediately, East Gate Kids disclaims all responsibility for and strongly advises against any employees engaging in babysitting services outside of their designated work hours. Such activities have the potential to create conflicts of interest between our program, our staff, and the families we serve. Off-Hours Services The state of New Mexico requires all people working with young children to report suspected child abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual) and neglect. East Gate Kids staff will conduct a daily health check to ensure compliance with state law. If a staff member has reasonable suspicion that a child has been abused or neglected, they will first report their concerns to the program director who will then make the necessary reports. Our first priority is to ensure the safety of the child. Our legal obligation is to report and complete appropriate documentation. All investigations are confidential; therefore, staff members are not at liberty to discuss them, even with parents. Staff attend training classes to become more aware of indicators of abuse and neglect. New Mexico law establishes immunity for any person reporting in good faith.. Our teachers are hired in compliance with the state requirements and qualifications. All staff will pass criminal history records check and have current CPR and First Aid certification. All will participate in orientation and ongoing training in the areas of child growth and development, healthy and safe environments, developmentally appropriate practices, guidance, family relationships, cultural and individual diversity, and professionalism. 24 Section 09

Emergency Procedures State Requirements for Emergency The state requirements prioritizes the safety and well-being of children in our classrooms and playgrounds. While we aim to prevent accidents, we acknowledge that they can occur. Therefore, we have stocked first aid kits available at all times in both the classroom and our vehicles for transportation. The Van Coordinator takes responsibility for the care, maintenance, and restocking of these first aid materials. To ensure the readiness of our staff in case of emergencies, all employees are required to possess current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, they receive training on health and safety issues. In the event that First Aid or CPR is required, our staff is well-equipped to handle the situation. Whenever an accident occurs, we will inform parents either during pick-up or immediately, depending on the severity of the injury. If the injury is serious, emergency personnel may be called, and emergency transport might be necessary. We strive to promptly notify parents by phone, using the contact information provided on the child's Emergency Information form. At East Gate Kids, the safety of your child is our top priority. We continuously evaluate and update our policies and procedures to ensure that our staff are well-prepared to handle any emergency situation. Our main focus during an emergency is to take control of the situation and promptly notify the families. If you have any inquiries about our emergency procedures, please reach out to the director. Emergency Evacuation and Preparedness Plan In order to prioritize your child's safety, East Gate Kids recognizes the importance of being prepared for unexpected emergencies. We will conduct monthly practice drills to ensure that our staff and children know how to respond in emergency situations. These drills are necessary to address hazardous conditions or any situations that may affect the well-being of our children and staff, and to maintain compliance with health and safety regulations. To ensure the effectiveness of our emergency preparedness, we reviews our Emergency Disaster Preparedness Plans annually. We are responsible for overseeing all emergency drills and ensuring their proper execution. In each classroom, it is the responsibility of the teachers to ensure that every enrolled child has an Emergency Evacuation Form. This form contains crucial information that will guide us in making the necessary decisions to protect your child's safety. During all emergency drills and actual situations, our staff will calmly and orderly direct the children using clear and simple instructions. This approach aims to minimize any confusion or fear that may arise during these circumstances. 25 Section 10

Emergency Procedure Fire Evacuation – All classrooms have evacuation plans posted near the exit doors. Fire Drills are conducted monthly. In the event of an evacuation temporary relocation, we will located at Roadrunner Childcare Development and Apache Elementary School. Classrooms will have evacuation packs to assist the children while transitioning to an off-site location. They will contain, at minimum, first aid kids, flashlights, water, snacks, appropriate infant/toddler supplies, activities to calm and organize the children, etc. Attendance will be taken during all transitions and in accordance with our Emergency Disaster Preparedness Plan. Families and the appropriate authorities will be contacted once children have been relocated and settled into their new environments. Shelter in Place/Lockdown – All staff receive annual training on shelter-in-place and lockdown drill policies and procedures. Drills are conducted quarterly. Each classroom will have an assigned safe place equipped with the appropriate supplies to assist in the safety and well-being of the children. Notification and implementation procedures are outlined in our Emergency Disaster Preparedness Plan and are unique per location. Parents, guardians, and visitors will not be permitted to enter the building during a drill. If you have any questions regarding our policy and procedures, please contact the director. Power Failures – It happens occasionally that may experience a power outage. The staff will comfort the children and remain calm. Children will remain indoors unless evacuation is required, then all evacuation policies and procedures will be followed. Emergency lighting is available and maintained at each location. If weather conditions permit, the program will stay open. If, for any reason, we are unable to remain open, center administrators will notify families for pick-up. Children with Disabilities – Children who are unable to walk or have a disability that requires assistance during an emergency will have an assigned staff person available to assist them. Infants and Toddlers will have use of wheeled evacuation cribs to assist staff. Older children will have an assigned staff person such as cooks, front desk admin, and/or available educational breakers. Chain of Command Senior Pastor/CEO Executive Director Director School Age Director Administrative Assistant Office Administrator Team Leaders Lead Teacher Teacher Assistant SA Lead Teacher SA Assistant Teacher Educational Breaker Non-profit organization's childcare 1. Board of Committee: The board of committee is responsible for making decisions related to childcare. They provide guidance and oversee the management and progress of the childcare services. 4. Senior Pastor/CEO: The senior pastor/CEO primarily oversees the church and the overall organization. However, if a situation poses a risk to the childcare, the senior pastor may be involved in handling that situation. 2. Executive Director: The executive director is the point of contact between the board of committee and the childcare. They are responsible for informing the board about essential matters and ensuring that the childcare operations align with the organization's goals and policies. 3. Director: The director is in charge of the dayto-day management of the childcare. They handle various decisions related to families, staff, and children. 5. Parents: Parents should initially resolve any issues or concerns regarding their children with the team leaders and lead teachers at the childcare. These individuals have direct knowledge of the children and can address any concerns promptly. By following this chain of command, East Gate Kids and Church ensures clear and effective decision-making. 26 Section 10

OUR CORE VALUES Family 1st This value pertains to striving for the highest standards of care and education in all aspects at East Gate Kids. It involves employing qualified and experienced professionals who are dedicated to continuous learning and professional development. Excellence means creating an environment that stimulates intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth in children through developmentally appropriate practices. Excellence This core value emphasizes honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all interactions with families, children, and staff. It means operating with integrity in financial matters, maintaining confidentiality, and addressing concerns and conflicts in a fair and respectful manner. Integrity This core value revolves around treating everyone involved at East Gate Kids, including children, families, and staff, with dignity and respect. It means valuing different perspectives and actively listening to others. Mutual respect entails creating a safe and inclusive space where diversity is celebrated and where all individuals feel valued and empowered. Mutual Respect This core value prioritizes the well-being and needs of families. It means recognizing that families are an integral part of a child's development and ensuring their involvement and input in decision-making processes. It also involves providing support to families in terms of resources, communication, and collaboration. This refers to promoting a nurturing and inclusive environment that respects and supports the diverse beliefs and values of families and children. It includes creating an atmosphere that acknowledges and appreciates various faith traditions, while also fostering open dialogue and understanding. Faith 27 Section 10

First Day Checklist & Family Handbook Acknowledgement Form Items from Home ___________ Box of Diapers ___________ 3 Pack of Wipes ___________ Small Blanket and Crib Sheet ___________ Ointments or Powders ___________ Formula and/or food (if applicable) ___________ 3 Bottles to stay in class (Infants Only) ___________ 3 Change of Clothing ___________ Family Poster and/or Pictures East Gate Kids Forms ________ Enrollment Application ________ Medical Records Release ________ Enrollment Agreement of Services and Cost ________ Immunization Certificate and Well Check Form ________ Developmental History ________ CACFP Income Eligibility Form ________ Guidance Policy ________ Parent/Provider Agreement ________ Publicity Release Agreement Family Handbook Acknowledgement Statement I have received the East Gate Kids Family Handbook on ________________________________(Date). I have reviewed and understand East Gate Kids' policies and procedures. ___________________________________ (Signature) __________________________ (Date) ______________________________________ (Name printed) Please label all personal belongings with your child’s name. You may need to take some items home daily or weekly to be laundered. ___________ Backpack ___________ Water Bottle ___________ Small Blanket and Crib Sheet ___________ 3 Change of Clothing including underwear ___________ Family Poster and/or Pictures Infants, Toddlers and Two’s Early Preschoolers through School-Aged

EAST GATE KIDS 12120 Copper Ave NE Albuquerque, New Mexico 87123 "Growing together, learning forever. Day by day, we shape the leaders of tomorrow." eastgatekids.com (505)294-5102 Come Grow With Us