A Smart Start - Welcome to the Business of Family Child Care by YMCA Childcare Resource Service

a Smart start welcome to the business of family child care

YMCA CHILDCARE RESOURCE SERVICE

Dear Newly Licensed Family Child Care Provider: Congratulations and welcome to the business of child care! Licensed family child care provides an important option for families, especially those needing care for infants and toddlers or working non-traditional shifts. We are pleased to provide this resource booklet to help you get started on the path to a successful business. Since 1980, our goal has been to provide training, resources and support to help programs provide safe, nurturing, quality care for all children and families. I hope you will stay connected and take advantage of all we have to offer from free referral services for providers and families to our quarterly CRS CONNECT newsletter. We know family child care and we are excited to be here for you! Sincerely,

Karen Shelby Department Head, Resource & Referral Department

CONNECT WITH US TODAY 1-800-481-2151

E-mail:

333 Camino del Rio South #400 3 San Diego, CA 92108

Quality: myqualitysupport@ymca.org

www.facebook.com/YMCA.CRS

Training: mytraining@ymca.org

www.ymca.org/crs

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Resource/Toy Request: myresource@ymca.org Profile Update: myupdate@ymca.org

Table of Contents CRS Departments ……………………………………………………….4 Referral Process ………………………………………………………...5 CRS Provider Services ………………………….…………………….. 6 CRS Connect …………………………………………………………………. 6 Wellness Champions ……………………………………………………… 6 Resource and Toy Lending Library ………………………………….. 7 Child Care Subsidies ………………………………………………………….. 8 Child Care Practices and Requirements ……………………………… 8 Community Care Licensing Description ................................... 9 Building A Positive Relationship with your Licensing Program Analyst ……........................................ 9 Family Child Care Ratios ............................................................10 Pediatric CPR/First Aid ..............................................................11 Reporting Child Abuse ...............................................................12 Child Abuse and Neglect Indicators ........................................ 13 Business Practices ...........................................................14 Business Cards ............................................................................14 Registering a Fictitious Business Name ..................................15 Income Tax Preparation .............................................................16 Marketing Tips ............................................................................17 Networking ..................................................................................18 Nutrition Programs .................................................................... 18 Trainings ......................................................................... 19 Ticket to a Successfull Family Child Care Business ............... 20 The Business of Family Child Care ........................................... 21 The Child Care Initiative Project .............................................. 21 Behavior Support Workshops for Child Care ......................... 22 Environment Rating Scale ......................................................... 22 Templates and Worksheets ............................................... 23 Diapering and Handwashing ..................................................... 25 Table Sanitizing Procedures ......................................................26 Immunizations .............................................................................27 List of Items for Child Care Program Disaster Kit ................. 28 Sample Daily Attendance Sheet ................................................29 Sample Daily Routine ................................................................. 30 Sample Menu Infant ................................................................... 31 Sample Menu Toddler/Preschool ..............................................31 Sample Contract ..........................................................................32 To Do List .....................................................................................35 Training and Professional Development Log .......................... 36 Contacts .......................................................................................37 Self-Evaluation Form ..................................................................38 FAQ ................................................................................................39 Notes ............................................................................................40

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CRS DEPARTMENTS YMCA Childcare Resource Service is a department of the YMCA of San Diego County. We are a leader in meeting the needs of families, early care and education programs and the child care community. We are funded through the California Department of Education, Early Education and Support Division to provide free resource and referral (R&R) services to all families regardless of income.

We focus our work in three key areas, because nurturing the potential of kids, helping people live healthier, and supporting our neighbors are fundamental to strengthening communities. Families are the focus of all we do from helping families create a Child Care Plan to providing child care programs with training and resources to increase the quality of care for children.

Services by Department: Alternative Payment helps families with full or partial payment to qualified families whose income does not exceed the State Median Income Level and have a need for child care. The first step to see if a family qualifies for child care fee assistance is to apply on line at www.childcaresandiego.com. Field Services provides health and behavioral health services to parents and child care providers of children 18 months to kindergarten as well as respite services for families who have children and teens with developmental disabilities.

Resource and Referral (R&R) provides free services and programs that promote and increase the quality of child care, including free child care referrals for families of all incomes to licensed family child care homes and licensed and legally license-exempt child care centers. Stage 1 CalWORKs helps families that are currently receiving CalWORKs benefits and are participating in the Welfare-to-Work (WTW) program pay for child care for children ages 0-12 years of age up to 21 with exceptional needs.

We are proud to be the Child Care Resource and Referral service for San Diego County! Check out the Child Care Initiative Project on page 21 for more focused attention for brand new providers.

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Referral Process As San Diego County’s Resource & Referral service, we are contracted with the California Department of Education to provide free referrals to parents seeking child care. Our knowledgeable child care consultants work with families to create a child care plan that fits their needs. In addition to a customized list of providers, our consultants educate each parent on what to look for when choosing a child care program. Use this resource book as a guide to starting your business off on the right foot.

As a newly licensed provider, adding your child care program to our database will help grow your child care business. To list your child care program in our countywide database, you need to create a profile. Only active profiles receive referrals to child care.

Every month, we receive over 2600 referral requests from parents needing child care for children of all ages and abilities.

Here are steps to get started: Congratulations! You received your license to provide care!

Prepare the following documents before you call CRS. (See list)

CALL CRS to set up your program profile at 1-800-481-2151

Update your profile every 3 months to remain active

Before you call to start your profile, think about details of your child care business such as: • License number or copy of your license • Rate information • Days and hours of operation • Contact information – e-mail address, phone number, website • Age range of children you will accept • Program details such as outdoor play area, meals/snacks, or types of activities

AT YOUR SERVICE

YMCA CHILDCARE RESOURCE SERVICE Update your profile every 3 months to continue getting referrals to your program. Contact us today!

OR 1-800-481-2151(local) 619-521-3070 (out of area)

TIPS E-mail mytraining@ymca.org to register for 5 Steps to a Smart Start training for new family child care providers. Update your profile every 3 months to keep your profile active and to continue receiving referrals.

www.bit.ly/crsproviderupdate

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The impact you make on our community is immeasurable. That’s why we are dedicated to providing you with the tools and resources you need to succeed. Here are a few programs that YMCA CRS provides as your Resource & Referral service.

“It takes a big heart to shape little minds.” – Anonymous

We provide data and statistics on supply, demand and the cost of child care. Profiles provide information on the extent of provider services and parent requests by zip code.

CRS CONNECT Linking families, child care professionals and the greater San Diego community. Every quarter, we publish a newsletter called the CRS CONNECT. It includes curriculum ideas, Top 10 Child Care Tips, and upcoming trainings and workshops. Visit www.ymca.org/crs/resources/publications.html for the most current newsletter as well as access the archives of past issues.

QUARTERLY LICENSING UPDATE Get the latest update and announcements from Licensing featured in the CRS CONNECT.

WELLNESS CHAMPIONS The Wellness Champion program offers free training, support and coaching to child care providers. Our Health Educators will enhance your knowledge and expertise in the areas of nutrition and physical activity. As a Wellness Champion, your child care program will be a preferred referral when parents contact our Child Care Referral line. Benefits to providers:

Wellness Champion Child Care Providers are given preferred referrals to families who want a program that focuses on healthy eating and physical activity.

• Preferred referrals to promote your child care program • Healthy Food & Activities Workshop • Individualized follow-up coaching • Wellness Champion Certificate • Wellness Champion Decal to display at your child care site 6 | Childcare resource service

Joining fee waived at the Y when you become a Wellness Champion.

RESOURCE AND TOY LENDING LIBRARY CRS library is open to family child care providers, child development students, early childhood educators, and trainers. We have increased our DVD collection, curriculum books and educational toys, including the following: • Theme Kits on Animals, Holidays, Transportation, All About Me, etc. • Children’s Music • Art, Music, Science, Math and Literacy Curriculum • Assessments tools: Environment Rating Scale

• Inclusion and Special Needs • Behavior and Guidance • Curriculum Planning • Child Development • Parenting

Make an Appointment! Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8 am to 5 pm Last Saturday of each month (3rd Saturday of the month for October, November, December) from 8 am to 2 pm Call 619-521-3055 ext. 2304 or e-mail myresource@ymca.org to schedule an appointment, pre-order toys, or arrange to pick up your order at a CRS workshop.

Our Library consultant can create a customized curriculum for you.

Instead of buying materials for your program, save money and check out books or toys through our Toy Lending service.

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Child Care Subsidies Centralized Eligibility List (CEL): San Diego County CEL enables families to have access to programs for which they qualify by submitting one application to the San Diego County CEL at www.childcaresandiego.com. Child care subsidy agencies use the CEL to enroll eligible families into their programs to receive child care fee assistance.

As a provider, parents may look to you for information regarding subsidy or help paying for child care. There are two ways for families in need to get child care subsidies. Stage 1 CalWORKS: CalWORKs is designed to transition people from welfare to work. It provides temporary cash assistance to eligible families with minor children, to move families with children from dependency to selfsufficiency through employment. www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/ programs/ssp/calworks.html

Family Size Gross Monthly Income

1-2

Below are the upper income eligibility limits of the CEL. This means that families with income higher than the amounts shown are not eligible for subsidy.

3283 3518 3908 4534 5159 5276 5394 5511 5628 5745 5863

Child Care Practices and Requirements

Here are general practices and requirements to help you get started managing your child care program.

Develop good habits by using the Environment Rating Scale. See Description of Trainings for more information.

Check out the template and worksheet section for samples of menu, routines, and a client agreement.

Here are 5 steps to follow that we give parents when they start visiting child care programs. LOOK around the child care environment to observe the adult-child interactions and if there are enough toys/learning materials are within the child’s reach. LISTEN to what the setting sounds like. Are the children happy? What is the teacher’s tone of voice?

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COUNT the number of children in the group to ensure providers are in ratio. ASK the child care provider about their experience, education or special training. BE INFORMED of efforts in your community to improve the quality of child care.

Community Care Licensing Description The majority of child care centers and all family child care homes are licensed by the California Department of Social Services (DSS) Community Care Licensing division (CCL) to ensure that minimum health and safety standards are met. CCL posts information on licensed facilities online at http://ccld.ca.gov/PG3581.htm. Review your profile today.

Make sure you are meeting all licensing laws and regulations by filling out the selfevaluation worksheet on page 38.

Contact the Family Child Care Duty Officer for questions about licensing requirements and regulations at 619-767-2248. For general questions not specific to your facility, call the Centralized Complaint and Information Bureau at 844-538-8766.

COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING 7575 Metropolitan Dr. #110 San Diego, CA 92108 619-767-2200 www.ccld.ca.gov

Building a Positive Relationship with your Licensing Program Analyst Communication is the key to building a good relationship with your Licensing Program Analyst (LPA). If you are unsure of a regulation or how to respond to a situation, call your LPA or the Analyst on Duty for guidance. Situations when you should consider contacting your LPA: • Parents are making allegations against you • Neighbors are complaining about noise, traffic, activities • There are serious situations or unusual incidents (child wanders away, custody fight) • A child is injured and transported to a hospital • You plan to make structural changes (convert garage to a play room) Don’t be concerned that your question is silly. Your LPA is there to answer your questions and help you remain in compliance with regulations. They appreciate hearing from you before there is a problem or serious situation. Provider Resource Booklet | 9

Family Child Care Ratios Small Family Child Care License 4 infants ONLY

*An infant is a child under 24 months.

Large Family Child Care License 12 children (with a qualified assistant)

No more than 4 infants* and the remaining children are over 2 years of age. *An infant is a child under 24 months.

OR 6 Children No more than 3 infants* and the remaining children are over 2 years of age.

When there is no qualified assistant, 14 years of age or older present, the capacity reverts back to the requirements for a Small Family Child Care. The assistant must not be left alone with children at any time, if under the age of 18.

8 children No more than 2 infants* (during any

time when more than six children are cared for), one child is enrolled in and attending transitional kindergarten/kindergarten or elementary school and a second child is at least six year of age or older.

Provider’s children under the age of 10 are included in the child care capacity. The provider must notify parents that the facility is caring for two additional school-age children and there may be up to seven or eight children in the home at one time. Parent must sign consent form; form (LIC 9150) must be kept on file. If renting/leasing the home, the provider must have written permission from the landlord to care for more than 6 children; form (LIC 9151 Rev 8/14) must be kept on file.

Read the CRS CONNECT for licensing announcements and to get a link to the entire Licensing Update. 10 | Childcare resource service

14 children (with a qualified assistant)

No more than 3 infants* and 1 child is at least 6 years and 1 child is in and attending kindergarten or elementary school.

Provider’s children under the age of 10 are included in the child care capacity. The provider must notify parents of the children in care when caring for more than 12 children. Parent must sign consent form; form (LIC 9150) must be kept on file. If renting/leasing the home, the provider must have written permission from the landlord to care for more than 12 children; form (LIC 9151) must be kept on file.

Download the Family Child Care Licensing Regulation Highlights ccld.ca.gov/PG547.htm

Pediatric CPR/First Aid Assembly Bill 243 requires all child care programs to have on-site at all times a staff person who has completed 16 hours of training in Pediatric CPR, Pediatric First Aid, Prevention of Infectious Disease (including immunizations) and Prevention of Childhood Injuries. This includes additional staff to travel off-site with groups of children. If you have questions about the training requirements for licensed child care programs or to locate an EMSA approved Health & Safety Training Course call 800-481-2151. There are other EMSA approved training organizations serving San Diego County, however, only the following (*) are contracted to accept YMCA CRS vouchers for reduced training fees if funding is available. These companies are provided as resources only, they are not recommendations.

SB277

states that parents or guardians will no longer be allowed to submit a personal belief exemption for vaccines. See Template and Worksheet section on page 27 for more details.

*A-B-CPR & First Aid 858-693-3304 www.abcpr.biz

American Red Cross 877-454-7229 www.sdarc.org

*Save-A-Life Educators 619-669-9911 www.savealifeeducators.com

*ABC, Livescan Traffic and Training School 619-934-7300

*Amerimed 619-469-7109 www.amerimedcpr.com

*The Training Source 760-738-3700www. thetrainingsourcecpr.com

Advanced Health & Safety Training 619-224-1392

EMS Safety Service Inc. 800-215-9555 www.emssafety.com

Health & Safety Training Grant. Contact us to apply for a voucher for 15 hours of health and safety training.

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Reporting Child Abuse ALL LICENSED FAMILY CHILD CARE PROVIDERS AND THEIR ASSISTANTS ARE MANDATED REPORTERS OF SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE. A caregiver must file a report if she/he knows or has a reasonable suspicion that a child is being, or has been abused. CONDITIONS TO REPORT:

WHO DO YOU REPORT TO?

IMMUNITY:

Physical abuse. Sexual abuse. Severe neglect which endangers the child. Extreme punishment leading to injury, emotional harm, mental suffering, child exploitation.

You have a choice of reporting to the Police or the Child Welfare Agency. The telephone report may be made by calling the CHILD ABUSE HOTLINE at 858-560-2191 or your local law enforcement agency.

Any mandated reporter is protected from liability arising from the fulfillment of this child abuse reporting obligation.

LIABILITY:

ANONYMOUS REPORTING:

Legal mandated reporters can be criminally or civilly liable for failing to report suspected abuse. The criminal penalty is six months in jail or a $1,000 fine.

Mandated reporters must give their name when making a report. This information is kept confidential by law enforcement and child protective agencies unless a court action occurs in which that information is necessary. Citizens who are not legally mandated reporters are allowed to report anonymously.

NOTIFICATION REGARDING ABUSE: You are not required to

For a booklet on “Reporting Child Abuse: Rights and Responsibilities for Child Care Providers” Contact the Child Care Law Center: 973 Market St., Ste. 550, San Francisco, CA 94103 415-558-8005 info@childcarelaw.org www.childcarelaw.org CHILD ABUSE HOTLINE (Child Protective Services) 858-560-2191 or 800-344-6000

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notify the child’s parents that you are making a report. However, it can be beneficial to explain to parents that you are making a required report and that filing a report is simply a request for help and a supportive service for the child and family.

Child Abuse and Neglect Indicators PHYSICAL INDICATORS OF PHYSICAL ABUSE: • Bruises/Welts - when explanation is inconsistent with injury and/or located on several and/or unusual places on body, or resemble something used to hit with e.g. hand, belt buckle, belt, electrical cord. • Burns - when explanation is inadequate or inconsistent with injury; located on soles, palms, back, or buttocks, or immersion burns (sock or glove-like on feet, hands, doughnut shaped on buttocks or genitalia), patterns, e.g. electrical burner. • Fractures/Dislocations - to facial area, multiple or spiral fractures.

BEHAVIORAL INDICATORS OF PHYSICAL ABUSE:

Apprehensive, behavioral extremes (withdrawal to aggressiveness) frightened of parents, afraid to go home, listless, very still while surveying surroundings, indiscriminately seeks attention/affection, over compliance, consistent irritability, chronic physical ailments, e.g. stomach aches.

PHYSICAL INDICATORS OR PHYSICAL NEGLECT:

Underweight, poor growth, consistent hunger, poor hygiene, lack of supervision, unattended physical or medical problems, abdominal distention, bald patches of scalp.

BEHAVIORAL INDICATORS OF PHYSICAL NEGLECT:

Begging, stealing, hoarding, hiding food, constant fatigue, listlessness, inappropriate seeking of affection.

PHYSICAL INDICATORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE:

Difficulty in walking, sitting; torn, stained or bloody underwear; pain, swelling, itching in genital area; painful urination, bruises, bleeding, lacerations in external genitalia, vaginal or anal area; vaginal/penile discharge; poor sphincter tone.

BEHAVIORAL INDICATORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE:

Bizarre, sophisticated, or unusual behavior or knowledge; withdrawal, fantasy or infantile behavior; reports sexual molestation; change in behavior, eating, sleeping behaviors; depression; excessive or unusual rubbing of genital area; excessive clinging; fear of going home or of a particular person; self-destructive behavior; reporting of secret but unwilling to clarify.

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Business Practices

Here are some general business practices to keep in mind with your child care program.

Business Cards Tips to keep in mind when developing a professional business card. A Card that is Remembered - Most business cards leave no real impression and are soon forgotten. Leave someone with a card that looks great, feels great and clearly defines what your business does — and you and your card won’t be over looked. Distributing a High-Quality Card - A poor quality card implies that your business is likely to have poor quality services. Instead of attracting business, this type of card will more likely discourage prospective customers. Your card should be on good stock paper, print that doesn’t bleed from a drop of water, preferably an embossed logo, and the card should feel substantial and pleasing to the touch. Take the “Mystery” out of your Business Card - When someone looks at your business card, can they tell immediately what your business does? If not, you’re not likely to get as many calls or referrals. Remember to include your licensing facility number in your business card and all advertisements. Provide a Unique Selling Proposition - Your card should state at least one very powerful reason a client should choose you such as: • A Loving Home for Child Care • We Care, We Play, We Learn, We Grow • Your Child’s First Teacher • Quality In-Home Child Care in a Licensed Setting Easy to Read - Being able to cram more information onto the card with a small font is not helpful if people can’t read it. Since 95 percent of the population aged 35 or older need reading glasses, a good guideline is to use a type size no smaller than 7-8 point, your name point can be a little larger at 9 point, and the company name usually looks good at about 12-15 point. Your logo should have some connection to what your business does or what you are selling. Too much print looks busy and unprofessional: Simple is best, your name, your company, what you do, and why they should use you — don’t skimp on your contact information; you want to be easy to reach.

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Make it the Right Size - Common sense dictates the use of the traditional and standard 3.5 by 2-inch business card. Anything bigger will not fit in wallets or most business card holders. Use Color - Jazz up your business cards with a little color. Just as restaurateurs use the color red for its appetizing quality, the judicious use of red in a business card is very visually appealing. Avoid the common mistake of gray print on a white background; it lacks contrast and the print is difficult to read. On the flip side, don’t make the mistake of color-overload. Too many colors that don’t complement one another will make the card look busy and will detract from the content of your card. Distribute, Distribute, Distribute! What good is having a box full of business cards if they’re just sitting there collecting dust? It would serve you and your business better to apply the old axiom, “Use it or lose it.” What can you lose? Business! Always have a supply of your cards wherever you go. Give them out when appropriate, and while you’re at it, don’t hesitate to give out more than one. Invite people to pass the extras along to others who might need your service. You might be surprised at how often this can result in a referral.

Registering a Fictitious Business Name A fictitious business name statement (D.B.A. or “Doing Business As”) must be registered with the county clerk of the county of the registrant’s principal place of business if the business is any of the following: • Sole proprietorship doing business under a name not containing the owner’s surname, such as Smith Accounting Services; • Partnership; or, • Corporation doing business under a name other than its legal name Fictitious business names are not filed with the Secretary of State’s Office. There is no provision in California for registration, in a central registry at the state level, of fictitious business names. You must contact the city and/ or county clerk and/or recorder where the principal place of business is located for information regarding filing or registering fictitious business names. NOTE: Even though a proposed corporate name has been checked and/or reserved, stationery, signs, corporate seals, etc., should not be ordered until you receive notification of filing from the Secretary of State’s Office, because the corporation is not created or qualified until appropriate documents have been filed with the Secretary of State’s office.

The statement must be filed within 40 days of the commencement of business or before the statement on file expires. Along with the original, the county may require several copies of the statement for filing. The county clerk will certify and return all copies to the registrant, keeping the original. Within 30 days after filing a fictitious business name statement, the registrant must publish the statement in a newspaper of general circulation in the county of its principal place of business. The notice must appear once a week for four successive weeks. Within 30 days of the last publishing date, the registrant must file an affidavit of publication with the county clerk’s office. The fee to file a fictitious business name statement varies depending on the county or city where it is filed. Inquiries should be directed to the county clerk’s office in which the business will be located. Information from this website: www.business.ca.gov/StartaBusiness/ RegisteringaBusiness/FictitiousBusinessName.aspx

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INCOME TAX PREPARATION The following companies offer income tax preparation for child care programs. It’s important to select a tax preparer with knowledge in the business of family child care. These companies are provided as resources only, they are not recommendations. *All information was correct at time of printing.*

We offer a workshop on Tax and Record Keeping. E-mail mytraining@ymca.org to get information on the next workshop.

Roz Capuchino Agape Financial 536 Echo Lane San Marcos, CA 92078 760-539-7153

Patrick Michael, EA Tax & Financial Services 7800 University Ave,Suite A-2 La Mesa, CA 91941 619-589-8680

Maryann Shefveland 1040 Pro 2258 Tampa Ave El Cajon, CA 92020 619-464-1260

Jorge Hernandez, M.B.A. Hernandez Tax Service 1385 Broadway Chula Vista, CA 91911 619-476-9684 www.hernandeztaxservice.com

Elvira Reyes Escritorio Publico, S.F.A. Tax 351 Third Ave Suite #2 Chula Vista, CA 91911 619-585-0481

Elaine Woodson Horizon Planning 855 Aero Dr. Suite #102 San Diego, CA 92123 858-277-8780 www.horizonplanning.com

Ledgers and Taxes by Lukehart 535 Broadway #107 El Cajon, CA 92021 619-440-3800 www.ledgersandtax.com

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Larry A. Saunders, EA 827 English Holly Lane San Marcos, CA 92078 760-746-8434 www.saundersea.com

marketing tips Family Child Care programs are a business. In addition to accounting and daily operations, marketing and promotion is what will help make your business a success. These marketing tips can help promote your child care program.

WHO ARE YOU?

WHere ARE YOU?

BE REMEMBERED

DEVELOP A CATCHY BUSINESS NAME “Laugh and Learn Family Child Care” or “After School Adventures” will make your program sound appealing to families.

DISPLAY A SIGN Enlarge and laminate your flyer. Post it on a window, front door, fence or gate. Create a magnetic sign for your car. Check local zoning regulations before posting signs on site or in the community.

BE VISIBLE Visit local businesses in your neighborhood; distribute flyers to introduce your child care program to employees. Visit schools, libraries, recreation centers and places that cater to children and families. Be a visible presence in the community.

DESIGN A LOGO Create a logo and add it to your business cards, flyers and publications. List your business name, general location (ex: Pacific Beach, 92109), licensing facility number, services, and telephone number.

WRITE A SALES PITCH Keep it by the phone and use during client interviews. What are your top 5 qualities? Example: specialize in infant care; provide food, formula and diapers; in business for 10 years; Wellness Champion. WORD-OF-MOUTH Satisfied current and past clients are your best business promoters. Ask parents to give your flyers to neighbors, friends and co-workers. Ask your clients to write a review of your child care program using Websites like Yelp.com.

BE PROFESSIONAL Join a local family child care association. Answer the telephone when it is quiet and you have time to speak with a parent. Record a voicemail message. Maintain curbside appeal.

CREATE A WEBSITE Search the Internet for free blogs or Websites. Choose a template, add photos of your business, add contact information and more. Need help or Internet access? Go to your local library and ask a librarian or a friend.

USE CRS RESOURCES Keep your provider profile up to date with YMCA Childcare Resource Service, 1-800-481-2151. Visit the CRS Resource & Toy Lending Library for books on marketing, sample contracts, curriculum ideas and toys for your child care program.

USE SOCIAL MEDIA Create a Facebook business page, post pictures of your child care program and activities. Promote your program and services. Add your current and past clients as “friends.”Get permission from the parents before posting photos of children.

CURB APPEAL – Oftentimes parents drive by child care facilities prior to the official interview. Make sure your entrance and surrounding areas are presentable. Provider Resource Booklet | 17

NETWORKING Networking is a great way to meet other providers and early childhood education professionals, discuss successes and strategies and develop a support system. Two organizations to consider joining are the San Diego County Family Child Care Association (SDCFCCA) or the San Diego Association for the Education of Young Children (SDAEYC). Memberships with associations like this usually include discounts on trainings and conferences, as well as books and educational materials. They also offer regular publications to stay informed on trending topics and upcoming events in addition to built-in support systems and advocacy from early childhood education professionals.

NUTRITION PROGRAMS The following companies offer child nutrition programs.

FAMILY CHILD CARE HOMES Child Development Associates, Inc. Nutrition Program 180 Otay Lakes Road, Suite #300, Bonita, CA 91902 619-427-4922 www.cdasandiego.com Child Nutrition Program of Southern California 7777 Alvarado Road, Suite #422, La Mesa, CA 91942 619-465-4500 www.cnpsc.com/ Chicano Federation Child Nutrition Program 3180 University Avenue, Suite #317, San Diego, CA 92104 619-285-5600 www.chicanofederation.org

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San Diego County Family Child Care Association (SDCFCCA) Membership start at $35 dollars www.SDCFCCA.org

San Diego Association for the Education of Young Children (SDAEYC) Basic membership starts at $75 www.sandiegoaeyc.org

Start on Your Path to success! At CRS, we believe Early Childhood Professional Development provides the opportunity to gain the knowledge, skills and resources that can be used to provide the highest quality of care for young children and their families. From preparing children for school and maintaining your business, to the day-to-day challenges of keeping children safe and engaged, we’re here to help you with a wide variety of training topics to choose from.

Watch for an e-mail every quarter for a listing of upcoming trainings.

TRAINING ACADEMY™

Child Care Aware Training Academy Online child care training at www.smarthorizons.org/naccrra/ymca/

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Ticket to a Successful Family Child Care Business WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS MODULE 1: Understanding the Business of Family Child Care Focus on setting up a family child care business using the tools necessary to provide a family-friendly program. Learn about contracts, policies, and tools for record keeping. Discuss market research, marketing, attracting and securing families for enrollment. Learn how professionalism plays a role in your success as a family child care provider.

MODULE 2: Creating a Safe and Inclusive Family Child Care Design or enhance your family child care environment using guidelines for arranging and developing goals for the environment. Review the Community Care Licensing regulations and using services, resources, and technical support from YMCA Childcare Resource Service. Learn what it means to offer an inclusive program that meets the needs of infants through school age children that is sensitive to their culture and development.

MODULE 3: Planning Activities for the Family Child Care Learn how to plan daily activities and developmentally appropriate activities for the children in your program. Discuss how children learn, activity planning by curriculum topic, age and skill level, early literacy and school readiness. Explore the many ways to plan for the activities that will fill the day with learning opportunities.

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MODULE 4: Professionalism in Family Child Care Building a positive relationship with families is the key to operating a successful child care business. Learn what parent’s look for in a child care provider, how to address parent concerns, and manage difficult conversations. Obtain suggestions on how to enhance relationships with parents, be a child care professional and connect to resources for family child care providers.

MODULE 5: Positive Guidance in Family Child Care Discover techniques to support and instill positive behaviors beginning in infancy. Gain an understanding of why certain behaviors occur. Learn how observation can help when dealing with and responding to challenging behaviors. Explore the effect different tools and techniques have on children when offered with respect and consistency to support independence and success.

MODULE 6: Baby’s First Years in Family Child Care Learn how newborns develop from infants to toddlers through environments that offer safe, healthy and appropriate physical challenges. Participate in handson activities to gain an understanding of perceptual, fine and gross motor development early learning opportunities. Healthy nutrition includes recommended meal patterns, introducing new foods according to the federal nutritional guideline and techniques to encourage self-feeding. Discover the benefits to babies, parents and providers regarding breastfeeding and how to provide support in your program. Guiding principles for this workshop align with the California Infant/Toddler Learning & Development Foundations.

The Business of Family Child Care This series of workshops will help you get you started. Building an Effective Marketing Plan Are you struggling to keep your child care spaces filled? Learn how to market your child care services and increase enrollment. Business strategies include: • How to build your professional image • Effective phone and interview communication • Benefits of social networking

Developing Your Contract and Policy Guidelines Do your clients know what to expect from your child care program? Learn how to establish a positive business relationship. This training is based on the Business Administration Rating Scale for Family Child Care (BAS) tool best practices.

Managing Your Income and Expenses Is managing your business finances a challenge? Learn how to organize your financial status to strengthen your business. This training is based on the Business Administration Rating Scale for Family Child Care (BAS) tool best practices. Business strategies include: • How to establish practices that support adequate cash flow • How to develop an operating budget, track revenue and expenditures • How to utilize basic financial statements

Business strategies include: • How to maintain positive communication with your clients • How to develop a legal and binding contract • How to establish policies that reflect the uniqueness of your child care • Effective child enrollment practices

The Child Care Initiative Project

The Child Care Initiative Project (CCIP) is a proven quality improvement project that delivers recruitment, training, and support for prospective and licensed family child care providers throughout California. CCIP places particular emphasis on the quality of care for infants and toddlers.

BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATION • Help with navigating the Community Care Licensing process • Build business skills and receive free training on Business Practices, Supporting Children’s Development, Learning Environments and Supporting Infants and Toddlers • Personalized one-on-one technical support before and after you receive your license

Participant must be… • In the process of obtaining a family child care license or willing to increase to a large license, add infants and toddlers, or offer non-traditional hours

AND • Willing to improve the quality of care for infants and toddlers through professional development opportunities and reside in San Diego County

• Free resources for your program and families • Access to our Resource and Toy Lending Library • Monthly support group meetings to network with other family child care providers • Eligible for additional incentives such as educational toys, safety equipment and child development publications • Annual opportunities to continue your professional development in the CCIP Program

Participation is free upon agreement of program requirements. Provider Resource Booklet | 21

Behavior Support Workshops for Child Care Building social emotional skills will not only help with classroom management but will also help children become successful in school and life. Let’s Play, Learn and Socialize! Studies have shown that social skills are the single best predictor of adult success. Our Behavioral Support Specialist will help early childhood educator understand the importance of social emotional development in young children. Participants will learn how to promote and encourage children’s social skills and arrange their early learning environment to assist in supporting positive social interactions.

Embracing the Challenging Child Looking at challenging behavior from a different perspective, this workshop will focus on developmentally appropriate techniques that early childhood educators can use to build a positive relationship with children having challenging behaviors. In addition, participants will be given tools to increase expressions of warmth and affection between educator and children in daily routines, room arrangement, materials and equipment.

Aggression, Tantrums and Meltdowns… Sound Familiar? Early childhood educators will learn how to help children identify and express strong emotions in a healthy manner. Strategies will be shared to reduce temper tantrums, meltdowns and aggression. Participants will have the opportunity to problem solve behavior challenges with a Behavior Support Specialist.

Creating Effective Schedules, Routines and Transitions Learn new techniques to create a well-managed early learning environment. Participants will gain understanding of the importance of establishing routines and schedules as well as implementing effective transitions to improve children’s behavior.

Environment Rating Scale Environment Rating Scale Learn how to assess and improve the quality of your family child care program. Get in-depth instructions on how to use the rating scale, complete a self-assessment and develop a quality improvement plan.

Develop good habits by using the Environment Rating Scale.

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Templates and Worksheets We’ve compiled some templates and examples of various forms for you to use. You can download a digital copy of them at bit.ly/familychildcaredocs or call 1-800-481-2151 to request the digital templates.

• HEALTH AND SAFETY Child care identification card Diapering-handwashing handout Table Sanitation Immunizations Disaster Kit • CHILD CARE EXAMPLES Sample Attendance Sheet Sample Daily Routine Sample Menus Provider-Client Agreement • WORKSHEETS Use this section as reminders of what actions you need to take. To Do List Professional Development Log Contacts Notes Self-Evaluation for FCCH

Provider Resource Booklet | 23

CHILD IDENTIFICATION CARD

(to be placed out-of-sight on each child during an evacuation)

Child’s Name Parent/Guardian #1 Name Parent/Guardian #2 Name Address Home Phone Parent/Guardian #1 Cell Phone Parent/Guardian #2 Cell Phone Neighbor/Friend and Phone Contact Outside of Area and Phone Child Care Program Name Child Care Program Phone

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DIAPERING AND HANDWASHING Diapering Procedure 1. B efore beginning the diapering procedure, clean your hands by using proper hand hygiene (handwashing or use of hand sanitizer according to directions). 2. T o minimize contamination, prepare for diapering by getting out all of the supplies needed for the diaper change and placing them near, but not on, the diapering surface, for example: • Enough wipes for the diaper change, including cleaning the child’s bottom and wiping the teacher’s and child’s hands before putting on the clean diaper (wipes must be taken out of their container) • A clean diaper • A plastic bag for soiled clothes and a set of clean clothes (if soiled clothing is anticipated) • Non-porous gloves (if used) • A dab of diaper cream on a disposable paper towel (if used) • Changing table paper (if used) to cover the table from the child’s shoulders to feet (in case it becomes soiled and must be folded over to create a clean surface during the change) 3. P lace the child on diapering table. Remove clothing to access diaper. If soiled, place clothes into a plastic bag. 4. R emove soiled diaper and place into a lined, covered, hands-free trash container.

5. Use wipes to clean child’s bottom from front to back (one wipe per swipe) and throw away into trash container. The diaper can also be left open under the child during the cleaning step and then discarded with the soiled wipes before continuing with Step 6. If gloves are used, they must be discarded at this time. 6. Use a wipe to remove soil from your hands and throw into trash container. 7. Use another wipe to remove soil from child’s hands and throw into trash container. 8. Put on clean diaper and redress the child. 9. Wash the child’s hands following the proper handwashing procedure (use of hand sanitizer is also acceptable for children 2 and older). Return the child to the play area without touching any other surfaces. 10. Clean the diapering surface by spraying it with a soapy water solution and drying with a paper towel or by wiping it with a water-saturated paper towel or wipe. 11. Disinfect the diapering surface by spraying it with disinfectant-strength bleach-water solution (½ – ¾ cup bleach per gallon of water) and wait at least 2 minutes before wiping (or allow to air dry). Another EPA approved disinfectant, used according to directions, can be used instead of bleach and water. 12. Clean your hands by using proper hand hygiene (handwashing or use of hand sanitizer according to directions)

Handwashing Procedure 1. Moisten hands with water and use liquid soap. 2. R ub hands together away from the flow of water for 20 seconds. 3. Rinse hands free of soap under running water. 4. D ry hands with a clean, disposable paper towel or air dry with a blower. 5. Turn off faucet using paper towel. 6. T hrow the used paper towel into a hands-free trashcan.

Information taken from Caring for Our Children: The National and Safety Performance Standards for Out-of-Home Care, 3rd edition, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Public Health Association, and National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Childcare (2011). Provider Resource Booklet | 25

Table sanitizing procedures 1. S pray tables with soapy water to remove debris. Use a different paper towel to dry each table 2. S pray table with sanitizing solution, covering entire surface. 3. I f using bleach & water, let sanitizer sit for at least 2 minutes before wiping dry or until it has dried on it’s own. If using an EPA approved sanitizer follow manufacturer’s directions for use. 4. Use a different paper towel for each table. 5. Wash hands after sanitizing table.

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Immunizations New Law (SB 277) Effective in 2016 Governor Brown signed Senate Bill (SB) 277 on June 30, 2015. SB 277 changes immunization requirements for children entering child care or school. Starting January 1, 2016: • Parents or guardians of students in any school or child-care facility, whether public or private, will no longer be allowed to submit a personal beliefs exemption to a currently-required vaccine. • Students will no longer be required to have immunizations for entry if they attend: o A home-based private school or o An independent study program with no classroom-based instruction.

However, parents or guardians must continue to provide immunization records for these students to their schools, and schools must continue to maintain and report records of immunizations that have been received for these students. • Students who have an individualized education program (IEP) should continue to receive all necessary services identified in their IEP regardless of their vaccination status. • Medical and personal beliefs exemptions will be allowed from any new immunization requirement initiated by CDPH for attendance at school or child care.

To order immunization supplies and resources for free: www.sdiz.org/ catalog/catalog.asp

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List of Items for Child Care Program Disaster Kit Ensure that there is enough of each item to last 72 hrs. Divide items into three 24 hour kits that can be easily transported if you are required to evacuate. First aid kits

NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries

ater (3 gallons per person, additional for W sanitation and flushing toilets). Date the water and replenish it at least once a year to keep it fresh. If the water has an expiration date, it may have to be changed more often.

Any special equipment required by a child or employee

Baby Food (3-day supply/infant) Other non-perishable foods (3-day supply infant and adult)

Dust and filter mask Goggles and work gloves Bullhorn, bell or whistle to signal for help

Disposable cups, bowls, plates, and eating utensils

Flashlights with long-life batteries and extra batteries and bulbs (in each room)

Non-electric can openers

Change of clothing (1/each child and adult)

Emergency cash (bills and coins)

Supplies of critical medications for children and staff (insulin, epi-pens, etc.)

Disposable diapers and pull-ups (3-day supply/ infant and toddler) Bathroom tissue

Extra games, books, drawing materials, etc. to keep children occupied Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

Paper towels

Garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation and disposal of diapers and pull-ups

Wet wipes and tissues Hand sanitizer, moist towelettes, and cleaning agents (bleach) for sanitation Blankets to keep children and staff warm

re-cut plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal P off rooms (windows, doors, and vents). Store in locations where you may need to shelter in place.

E-mail mytraining@ymca.org for information on the next Disaster Preparedness Training for Family Child Care programs.

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SAMPLE

Daily Attendance Sheet Children must be signed in/out daily!

Facility name: Child’s name: Date

Month: Time In

Signature

Time Out

Signature

Comment

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Sample Daily Routine • 6:30 am -8 am: Arrivals/Breakfast/Free play • 8:00 am-8:30 am: Circle/Sharing time • 8:30 am -9 am: Snack time and snack clean up • 9 am -10 am: Sensory and discovery centers • 10 am -10:15 am: Music and movement • 10:15 am -10:45 am: Outside play • 10:45 am -11 am: Water break • 11am-11:45 am: Lunch time/Clean up • 11:45 am -12:15 pm: Imaginative play/free play • 12:15 pm -12:45 pm: Art • 12:45 pm -1:00 pm: Story time • 1 pm -3 pm: Nap time • 3 pm -3:30 pm: Snack time and clean up • 3:30 pm -4:30 pm: Fine Motor Centers • 4:30 pm -6 pm: Story time/free play/pick-up *Routine diaper checks and/or changes every hour/as needed. Feed and nap infants on demand.

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Sample Menu Infant (8mo. - 12mo.) Sample menu: Infant AM SNACK

Lunch

Monday

• Mashed bananas

• Oatmeal

• Non-flavored milk

• Pureed avocado and banana and Cheerios

• Pureed yams with rice cereal and mashed banana

Wednesday

• Rice cereal and pureed pear

Thursday

Friday

• Scrambled eggs

• Mashed sweet potato

• Non-flavored Milk

• Pureed chicken with mashed carrots and pear puree

• Pureed beef with pureed squash and diced peach

• Pureed chicken with diced green beans and kiwi puree

• Non-flavored milk

• Cooked carrots and diced cheese

• Cooked peas and diced peaches

• Cheerios and sliced avocado

• Pureed green beans and squash

• Mashed banana and oatmeal

• Non-flavored milk

PM SNACK

Tuesday

• Non-flavored Milk

Sample Menu Toddler/Preschool Sample menu: Toddler AM SNACK

Lunch

Monday

Tuesday

• Oatmeal squares and orange Slices

• Buckwheat pankcakes and banana slices

• Non-flavored milk

• Whole grain pasta with chicken, broccoli and apple slices

• Fish sticks, peas and carrots, orance slices

• Non-flavored milk

PM SNACK

• Non-flavored milk

Wednesday • Rice cakes with cream cheese, diced grapes drizzled with honey • Non-flavored Milk

• Whole grain turkey (natural!) sandwich, celery with ranch dip, fruit salad • Non-flavored milk

Thursday

Friday

• Scrambled eggs and whole grain toast • Non-flavored Milk

• Wheaties and berries • Non-flavored Milk

• Chicken noodle soup, whole grain crackers and halved grapes

• Whole wheat pizza bagel, carrot sticks and diced pear

• Non-flavored milk

• Toddler Trail Mix (raisins, O cereal, carob or yogurt chips, dried fruits)

• Fruit slices and cheese cubes

• Graham crackers with applesauce

• Watermelon and pita chips

• String cheese and apple slices

• Non-flavored milk

Provider Resource Booklet | 31

Sample Contract - Use as a guide to create your own. Provider – Client Agreement for Child Care Services This contract is made between: _____________________________________________________________ (client) And

_________________________________________________________ (child care provider) for child care services described below. Child Care Services will be provided for: 1. Name of child: _________________________________ Date of birth: ________ 2. Name of child: _________________________________ Date of birth: ________ 3. Name of child: _________________________________ Date of birth: ________ 4. Name of child: ________________________________ Date of birth: _______ Child care services will begin on ___________________________________ (insert day of week & date). Child care is open year-round, except for holidays, vacation, sick and professional growth days listed in the Parent Handbook. The contracted days and hours of child care services are as follows: Monday

_____ AM/PM to _____

AM/PM

Tuesday

_____ AM/PM to _____

AM/PM

Wednesday

_____ AM/PM to _____

AM/PM

Thursday

_____ AM/PM to _____

AM/PM

Friday

_____ AM/PM to _____

AM/PM

Saturday

_____ AM/PM to _____

AM/PM

Sunday

_____ AM/PM to _____

AM/PM

Child Care Rate: The charge for care is $ _____ per _______ (day/week/month), payable by ________________ (day of week or month) is required. • Payment is accepted by cash, check, money order or direct deposit. Payment is due regardless of attendance. The child care fee must be paid one week in advance and due no later than Friday before care begins the following week. • The client will pay a $ ____ per day fee for late child care payments. For tax purposes, a yearly statement, W-10 form will be provided to each family by January 15th. • Returned checks must be paid by cash. Additional returned checks will result in cash or direct payment only. There will be a $____________ (amount) returned check charge plus any additional charges incurred to myself and/or by the bank. • Outstanding accounts will be sent to court and collections; the client will be responsible for all court costs.

Sample Contract - Use as a guide to create your own. Fees due upon enrollment: • Non-refundable registration fee of $__________________________ • Advance payment for last two weeks of care in the amount of $ __________________________ (week/month), which will be credited towards the last _______ (# of weeks) of child care provided all provisions in this contract and the Parent Handbook are met. Overtime Rates: • Overtime charges will apply for hours of child care before _________ AM/________ PM and after _______AM/ _______PM. • Client will pay an additional fee of $__________________ per minute if the child is dropped off earlier or picked up later than the time stipulated by this contract. • If prior arrangements are made with the provider the overtime rate will be $______________________ per hour. Other Charges: • If the client is receiving state subsidized child care assistance, the co-pay will be $ ______________________ per month. The client is responsible for paying the full amount of the fees under this contract if child care assistance payments are interrupted for any reason. • Due to cost of living increases, child care fees will increase annually at a rate of $ ____________________________ per (day/week/month).

Nutrition Child care will include the following meals and snacks:

o Breakfast

o PM Snack

o Lunch

o PM Snack

o Dinner

Release of Child: Children may be taken from the provider’s care only by the person/s signed below and those named on the Authorization to Leave Care form. Trial Period A trial period of child care will begin on __________________ (insert date). The client will pay $ _______________________ per week. During this time, either the client or the provider may cancel the contract immediately, without written notice. If the contract is cancelled during this _________ (insert amount of time) trial period, the client will pay a prorated fee. Payment is due for each day unless the contract is cancelled before the day begins.

Sample Contract - Use as a guide to create your own.

Termination Procedure: The Client may terminate this contract at any time with _____ (days/weeks) written and paid notice. The provider may provide _____ (days/weeks) written notice of termination but reserves the right to immediate termination if the client or child posses any threat to the safety and welfare of other children in care, the provider’s family or failure to comply with policies. All parties agree to the contract terms and understand this is a legal binding agreement. By signing this contract, clients indicate that they have read the provider’s policies and agree to follow them. I reserve the right to make changes to my policies without notice. This contract is entered into by the client and provider and will remain in effect until termination of care or the signing of a new contract. By signing this page, you indicate that you have received and read my policies and agree to follow them. _______________________________

__________________________________

Parent or legal guardian’s signature

Date of signature

_______________________________

__________________________________

Parent or legal guardian’s signature

Date of signature

_______________________________

__________________________________

Co-signer’s signature

Date of signature

A co-signer is required if the client is under the age of 18. The co-signer guarantees the contract and agrees to be responsible for all its financial terms if the client fails to pay the provider. _______________________________

__________________________________

Provider’s signature

Date of signature

Provider Resource Booklet | 35

Meet your Licensing Program Analyst Register for Smart Start

High

What Attend a CCL Orientation

Due Date

High

Priority

To Do List Who

In Progress

Done

TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOMPMENT LOG Track the professional development workshops and trainings you attend. Date

Training Title

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Trainer

Location

Topic

Hours

CONTACTS Keep track of the contact information of your network.

Name: YMCA Childcare Resource Service Phone number: (619) 521-3050 E-mail: Address: 3333 Camino Del Rio South #400

Name: Phone number: E-mail: Address:

San Diego, CA 92108

Name: Community Care Licensing Phone number: (619) 767-2200 E-mail: Address: 7575 Metropolitan Drive,

Name: Phone number: E-mail: Address:

San Diego, CA 92108

Name: Phone number: E-mail: Address:

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FAMILY CHILD CARE HOME (FCCH) SELF-EVALUATION

Licensees are required to meet all licensing laws and regulations. It is critical to the health and safety of children in FCCHs that licensees routinely review their homes to ensure that all licensing requirements are met. To assist with your review, Community Care Licensing has identified the most serious licensing requirements which, if not met, could jeopardize the health and safety of children in your care. If your review is done on a regular basis, it could prevent some of the most serious violations from occurring. Please note that the regulations/H&S Code sections below are for general reference, are not all inclusive, and do not identify all of the requirements that must be met. We encourage you to involve staff, friends, parents, and others in this self-evaluation process as well. Regulation/H&S Code Section 102370-102370.2 102395(a) 102416.5, 102417(a)

102417(g)(5)(A)-(B),

102416.5(a)-(c)

102423(a)(1)-(4)

102417 et al

102416(c)-(e) 102416.2(b)-(h)

102417(g)(7) -(9)

H&S 1596.859, 1596.8595, 1596.8895

Description of Licensing Requirement

Have criminal record clearances and Child Abuse Central Index checks been done for ALL adults? Presence of a person without proper clearances, including excluded persons, is a serious violation. Are children supervised at all times? When on field trips, are qualified and adequate staffing present? Are assistant caregivers present when required? Ratios must be met at all times. Failure to provide adequate care and supervision may result in loss of a child, a child wandering off, injury, or even death. Are all bodies of water, pools, spas, ponds, fountains, streams, lakes, etc., made inaccessible to children by either a locked cover that can withstand the weight of an adult, or a 5-foot safety fence with a gate that swings away from the pool, selfclosing, and self-latching at the top? These safeguards are in addition to proper supervision. Failure to comply with pool safety requirements could result in serious injury or death of a child. Are you caring for no more children than your license allows? (See capacity chart on website). Capacity limitations must be adhered to at all times. A program with too many children presents a risk to all children in care. Remember, for large FCCHs, a fire clearance and an assistant are required. Do you ensure that the personal rights of all children are protected? There can be no corporal punishment, and no unacceptable discipline such as spanking, excessive timeout or nap time, withholding of food or any other activity which violates the health and safety of children in care. Does your home meet all physical plant requirements on a regular basis? Are detergents, cleaning compounds, medicines, and other items which could pose a danger stored where they are inaccessible to children? Are poisons and firearms stored in locked areas and is ammunition stored and locked separately from firearms? Repairs needed for situations that may pose a danger to children must be made immediately and preventative maintenance must be done to ensure the health and safety of children in care is protected. Are your CPR and First Aid cards and certificates current? Do you report to your local licensing office whenever an incident occurs that might endanger the health and safety of children in your care? This includes death of a child, any injury to a child that requires medical treatment, and other issues. Do you have an Emergency Disaster Plan in place, including emergency information for children in care? Do you keep a current roster of children in your care? Are you following all posting and parent notification requirements for a Type A deficiency citation? (See Parent Notification Requirements on the website.)

Met

Not Met

NOTE: You are required by law to allow a Department employee, who has proper identification, to enter and inspect your home during normal business hours or anytime children are in care. This inspection authority includes private interviews with children and staff to determine compliance with licensing laws and regulations.

Community Care Licensing website may be found at: www.ccld.ca.gov May 2008

FAQ How do I set my rates?

It’s a good idea to know the average rate for child care in your area before setting your rates. As a new provider you need clients! Consider charging less than the market rate for your zip code to attract clients. Call our Child Care Line (1-800-481-2151) and request the rates for your area.

How do I get referred?

When you receive your license call our Child Care Line to set up your referral file. If we have not already received your name on our monthly New Program list from Community Care Licensing, we will ask you to fax or scan/email your license. Our Child Care Consultants will ask you questions about your service such as location, hours and days of operation, age range of children, environment and program activities. Once your file is complete, you will be active for referrals.

How do I get subsidy families in my child care?

Some providers like to enroll families receiving child care subsidies because the Alternative Payment or Welfareto-Work/Stage 1 agency pays them directly for the families’ child care hours. Families receive your name through the referral process because they are looking for care in your area. If your services are the best match for the ages of the children and their child care schedule, your name will come up on their referral list. We cannot refer individual families to your child care program based on your request for subsidy families.

Parents aren’t choosing me, what can I do?

Walk through your program starting from the curb. Are the lawn mowed, plants thriving, porch and yard neat and clean? Open the door. Is your home welcoming? Are there happy sounds of children’s voices engaged in play? Are there enough toys and materials within reach? Is a schedule of daily activities posted? Is it clean, fresh and in good repair? Is the outdoor area uncluttered and designed for safe, active play? It is important to engage the parent in a conversation about your program philosophy, experience, training and education.

Do you have grants for toys and materials?

We do not have grants but we do have a Toy Lending Library. Providers may check out toys and books for thirty days by paying a one-time, non-refundable fee of $25. Using the library is a great way to give children a variety of new toys, books and learning materials to play with every month. Call our Child Care Line to make an appointment or e-mail to myresource@ymca.org.

Provider Resource Booklet | 39

NOTES

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NOTES

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NOTES

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ON YOUR WAY TO A SMART START

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OUR MISSION The YMCA of San Diego County is dedicated to improving the quality of human life and to helping all people realize their fullest potential as children of God through the development of the spirit, mind and body.

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