WINTER ALREADY?!

So the weather gods say to expect the coldest winter in 20 years.. brrrrrr. 

With winter dawning upon us soon, be sure your child is equipped with rain/winter boots, waterproof pants and coats, toques and mits.  We often meander outside even on wet days. 

REGISTRATION

IT IS OFFICIAL!!  We are expanding MRCC to include separate Infant and Toddler Programs...our Centre will include Unit 3 (next door)

Children 18 months and younger will remain in the Infant Program, while those 19- 35 months will move to the Toddler Program.  This will allow for more targeted and age appropriate programming that will also ease their transition to the 3/5 Program.

We anticipate opening its doors March 1, 2012!!

We are accepting registration for both full and part-time space in the following Programs:

• Infant (registration for March 1, 2012)
• Toddler (registration for March 1, 2012)
• 3/5 (we currently have spaced in this program for registration)

TIPS FOR FINDING THE RIGHT CENTRE

• enlist on various centres' waitlists & make appointments to view them

                   View them during operating times when you know children will be present and playing.  This will allow you to see how each caregiver interacts with the children either in a group setting or one-on-one.  This will also give you a general idea of the flow of the program. Staff chemistry is  also very important!  Being added to multiple waitlists does not bind you to register with them and waitlists constantly change. This just gives parents choices.

• centres are all different...

                   Each centre operates believing in different philosophies, different values, and different goals.  Know what you are looking for when placing your child in a centre.  You must be comfortable with their policies and procedures-including discipline and guidance.  Trust your gut feeling!!  If you have a positive vibe...go with it!  If there seems to be something lacking, chances are, it may not be a good fit.

• talk to the educators and ask for qualifications

                Ask what the qualifications are of each caregiver: Infant/Toddler, ECE or Assistant.  Caregivers must have first aid, CPR, criminal record check & license to practice.  Ask if each individual has a current and valid CRC.  Most centres will also ask for a doctor's note confirming physical and mental health to work with young children.  Another beneficial but not necessary requirement may include foodsafe (food preparation and sanitation).

• ask what their policy is when dealing with less-desired behaviours

               These could include toddler-common behaviours like biting, hitting, and/or pushing, or developmental challenges individual to each child. 

Know what your choices are...whether it be a licensed group daycare, licensed/unlicensed family daycare etc.  The Child Care Resource and Referral Centre is a great resource for inquiries as well.

Remember that not every child fits with each centre and not every centre is the right fit for each child.  Bring your child when viewing a centre and let them play...this will sometimes be a strong indicator!

                                                                 GOOD LUCK!!