TLC CENTER
Where children and families ♥ where they learn!
FAMILY ENROLLMENT HANDBOOK
2025/2026 School Year
TLC-BLC TLC-GFC
1009 18th Ave SW 1900 23rd Street South
Great Falls MT 59404 Great Falls MT 59405
Phone (406)453-6670 Phone (406)866-0089
Fax (406)455-6664 Fax (406)866-0271
Web Site http://totlotchildcare.com
Find us on Facebook@
TLC Center BLC Family Page
TLC Center GFC Family Page
HOURS 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday – Friday
Owner/Administrator – Beth Olson- Email tlccenter@live.com
Senior Director of Operations: Crystal Kist – Email crystalkisttlccenter@gmail.com
TLC-BLC Director: Madison Ameline – Email madisonamelinetlccenter@gmail.com
TLC-BLC Assistant Director – Nicole Ameline – Email nicoleamelinetlccenter@gmail.com
TLC-GFC Director: Alexandra Albert – Email alexandraolsontlccenter@gmail.com
TLC-GFC Assistant Director: Tamara Garland – Email tamaragarlandtlccenter@gmail.com
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
WELCOME
Dear Family,
Thank you for choosing TLC Center for your childcare needs. Our goal is to meet the needs of your child educationally, socially, and emotionally through his/her experiences that contribute to their developmental needs. We hope that both your child and family have a positive, educational, and fun experience at TLC Center.
Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you and your child adjust to his/her “new school”.
Suggestions that may help you and your child adjust are:
Have the entire family come visit for an hour or two.
Bring your child for short visits for the first week.
Allow your child to bring a favorite blanket or small stuffed animal.
On the first day that you leave your child:
Be sure your child is well rested. Be prepared in the morning so you do not have to rush (clothes ready, a simple breakfast). Expect tears. If your child gets overly emotional, try to give him/her a quick kiss and hug and leave. Do not sneak out – this only causes your child to mistrust you and us. Model a positive and upbeat attitude towards the center and teachers, and your child will do the same as they look to you for direction. Remember, families are always welcome to visit and/or call anytime. Thank you for choosing TLC Center to care for your child!
Both TLC Center locations are:
- A private, for-profit center.
- A STAR 4, Montana state-licensed facility.
- A Great Falls Early Head Start partner.
- A Child & Adult Food Program (CACFP) participant.
- Childcare Aware of America (CCAoA) participant.
- Licensed and registered with the city of Great Falls.
- Spaces are leased from Bethel Lutheran Church and Great Falls College.
MISSION STATEMENT The mission of TLC Center is to provide high-quality early childhood care and education that meets the individual needs of each child and family in a safe, developmentally appropriate, educational, and fun environment. Children are encouraged to be independent thinkers and lifelong learners.
VISION STATEMENT The vision of TLC Center is to be a leader in the childcare community by providing superior quality early childhood education and a social environment where children can learn and be motivated by their teachers and peers.
PHILOSOPHY Children thrive in a relaxed, happy, responsive, and loving atmosphere with opportunities to explore, collaborate, play, and communicate with his/her contemporaries. We believe that each child who comes to TLC Center is a unique individual. We encourage children to develop social skills, gain emotional competency skills, and further their educational and physical development. We believe children need a mixture of formalized instruction and free play to stimulate and foster creativity, imagination, and curiosity.
Each child, to have real security, needs to know that there are limits beyond which he/she may not go. A child must have the support and guidance of the teachers to help him/her stop when they are over-stimulated, hurting others, or being destructive. A child needs an order to his/her day on which he/she can count on, but which is still flexible enough to meet his/her needs.
The most important function of TLC Center is to provide a safe, friendly, happy environment that will give each child a chance to grow and develop to the best of his/her ability. We believe both the child and the family benefit by sharing this experience.
GOALS We believe that the children of today are the adults of the future. The children are our priority. We believe that the families in our program are especially important in a child’s life, and we work with families to ensure that the child is receiving every opportunity to feel safe and secure.
THE CHILDREN To meet the needs of the children educationally, socially, emotionally, and physically through experiences that contribute to their developmental needs based on the child’s individual interests and abilities, that will build important foundations for future skills and academic pursuits.
THE FAMILIES To be a positive influence in the lives of every family member by being reliable, trustworthy, and sensitive to the families’ changing needs. Our greatest tool is that of communication.
THE STAFF To encourage and educate staff so that they realize and respect the great responsibility of nurturing and caring for children.
THE COMMUNITY To use our knowledge and understanding of child development and early childhood education to provide a high-quality program for children, to participate in efforts to improve and expand quality services and programs, and to take action when needed to ensure the well-being of all children in our society.
CONTRACT & TUITION FEES effective as of January 1, 2024
A full day is five (5) hours or more.
-
- Families pay for the days contracted. This includes illnesses, vacations, and other absences.
- The minimum weekly schedule contract is three (3) days a week.
- Reducing/increasing the number of days contracted for requires 15 days’ notice AND is subject to availability.
- TLC Center reserves the right to deny a decrease/increase in contracted days requests.
- All fees are due by the 10th of the month unless prior arrangements have been made.
- Payment may be made by cash, check, credit card or on the SmartCare APP.
- Access to your account balance is available on the SmartCare kiosk, SmartCare APP, or by requesting the information from TLC management.
- If TLC Center can no longer continue care for your child, a minimum of five days’ written notice of termination is given.
- Notice is not required should you decide to withdraw your child from the center. There are no refunds.
- On request, families will receive an end-of-the-year statement and a W-10 for tax purposes.
- Enrollment can be terminated for failure to pay or for arranging a payment plan for any unpaid tuition balance that is 30 days or more past due. Your account balance is available on the Smart Care app.
ADDITIONAL FEES
REGISTRATION FEE: A $100 non-refundable registration fee per family is charged at enrollment.
LATE PAYMENT TUITION ADJUSTMENT: Monthly fees not paid in full by the 10th of the month will be charged a late fee of $50.
RETURNED CHECK FEES: A fee of $50 is charged for a check returned by the bank due to insufficient funds.
LATE PICK-UP TUITION ADJUSTMENT: A late fee of $25 per 5 (five) minutes will be assessed after 6:05. A late pick-up fee will also be added to a child’s account if you are called to pick your child up due to illness and exceed the one-hour window to pick your child up. This fee is the sole responsibility of the parent/legal guardian and is NOT covered by families receiving fee assistance from programs such as Best Beginnings, Early Head Start, or Childcare Aware.
NON-PAYMENT OF FEES: A fee of $100 per month is charged for non-payment of fees when an account is not paid in full 30 days from the child’s last day of attendance. The account will be sent to a collection agency within 90 days. This fee is the sole responsibility of the parent/legal guardian and is NOT covered by families receiving fee assistance from programs such as Best Beginnings, Early Head Start, or Childcare Aware.
HOLDING-FEE A non-refundable holding fee of $200 is charged if you withdraw your child for a month or more. This arrangement is subject to availability, as we can only accommodate a certain number of enrollments. This fee is the sole responsibility of the parent/legal guardian and is NOT covered by families receiving fee assistance from programs such as Best Beginnings, Early Head Start, or Childcare Aware.
NEW ENROLLMENT HOLDING FOR INFANTS: A non-refundable holding fee of $200 per month is charged to hold a slot fee for infant childcare. This fee is the sole responsibility of the parent/legal guardian and is NOT covered by families receiving fee assistance from programs such as Best Beginnings, Early Head Start, or Childcare Aware.
PRE-PAY RATES –Tuition fees paid at the first of month for the current month.
FULL DAY |
HALF DAY – Less than 5 hours per day |
|||||
AGE |
0 -35 months |
3+ |
AGE |
0 -35 months |
3+ |
|
Daily Rate |
$65 |
$60 |
Daily Rate |
$40 |
$35 |
|
3x week –12 days a month |
$696 |
$648 |
3x week –12 days a month |
$480 |
$420 |
|
4x week –16 days month |
$928 |
$864 |
4x week –16 days a month |
$640 |
$560 |
|
5x week –20 days a month |
$1,120 |
$1,040 |
5x week –20 days a month |
$800 |
$700 |
POST-PAY RATES -Tuition fees paid at the end of the month, after the services have been provided.
$65.00 per day -Age 0 -35 months old.
$60.00 per day -Age 3 years old and up.
The daily rate will be charged for the days you contract for, including absences and center Holidays & closures.
GENERAL INFORMATION
ABSENCES
Notify the center as soon as possible, and no later than 9 am if for any reason your child will be absent on a scheduled day of attendance or arriving later than 9 am. With an absence of one week (5 consecutive days), your child’s slot will not be guaranteed unless the center has been notified.
CLOTHING
Play clothes are recommended. We are careful, but clothes do get dirty and/or stained, especially during mealtimes, outdoor play, and doing art activities. All children need a change of clothes. Please place your child’s name on the tag.
INFANTS & TODDLERS – The family supplies diapers. Children who are not completely restroom sufficient must be provided with an adequate change of clothes. Restroom learning can begin at 18 months with family support. Pull-ups may prolong the potty-training process for some children.
SUMMER OUTDOOR PLAY – All children should wear “closed-toe” shoes, such as tennis shoes, for outdoor play to protect their feet. Sandals & flip flops are hard to walk and run in.
WINTER OUTDOOR PLAY – Dress your child for the weather. All children aged one and up go outdoors in the winter. Each day, send hats, boots, snow pants, and mittens. Extra outdoor clothing may be left at the center. Please label your child’s clothing with their initials for easy identification.
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
A list of Community Resources is posted on the Parent Bulletin Board. Copies of the list are available on the sign-in/out desk and in the office. We also have resources that can be provided via email at parents’ request.
CONFERENCES
Family/Teacher conferences are scheduled as needed. It is the family’s choice to attend. If at any time you would like to schedule a conference with your child’s teacher and/or a member of management, please inform the administrative staff for arrangements.
CONFIDENTIALITY
All child/family information is kept confidential. Information concerning your child/family will not be shared with other families without your consent.
CONTACTING TLC CENTER
Listed on the cover page are the phone numbers and email addresses of both sites. There are times when we are unavailable to answer the phone immediately. You may leave a message on voicemail. If it is urgent, please keep calling. Messages can also be left through our web site: http://totlotchildcare.com and Facebook, or directly email the Senior Director of Operations, Directors, or Assistant Director.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURE
In an emergency, if we must evacuate the building, the children will be taken to:
TLC-BLC The Heritage Inn, alternate site to TLC-GFC.
TLC-GFC The GF College campus, alternate sites Central Catholic High School or TLC-BLC.
Listen to the radio station K99 (98.9 FM) as we will keep them informed as to what is happening and where we can be located. Both our public and private Facebook pages will be updated with information. Smart Care text messages will be sent to all families.
FAMILY CRISIS
Please advise TLC Center of any difficulty or crisis in your family that may influence the emotional well- being of your child. We would like to support you and your child in any way we can.
FAMILY INVOLVEMENT
Families are encouraged to be involved in the center. The offering of your services is always welcome. Such as input in special events, hiring, policy development, building care, and repair.
FIELD TRIPS
Families will be notified in advance of field trip activities. No child will be able to participate in any field trip until a signed field trip permission slip is on file at the center. Specifically, children under 2 must be in a rear-facing car seat, children between 2 and 4 in a rear or forward-facing seat with a harness, and children between 4 and 8 in a forward-facing seat or booster seat. Children 9 and older can use a standard seat belt.
FORMS
All forms must be completed prior to enrollment. Telephone numbers and address changes must be reported immediately. The center needs to be kept informed of how to always contact the family.
GRIEVANCE
Please contact management with any questions or concerns you may have. We encourage families to keep the lines of communication open. For licensing concerns, contact TLC Center management or the licensing agency DPHHS/QAD) at (406)444-3074. See the front page for additional names, numbers, and email addresses.
HOLIDAYS & CELEBRATIONS
TLC Center is closed the following days: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Easter Monday/TLC-BLC only, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day & following Friday, Christmas Eve Day, and Christmas Day.
TLC Center celebrates Holidays such as Easter, Halloween and Christmas with classrooms parties, songs, stories, arts & crafts and/or programs. Treats may be sent for birthdays (cake, cupcakes, cookies, ice cream, etc.). All children and families are invited to join in the festivities.
HOURS and DAYS OF OPERATION
TLC Center is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. There is a late fee for children picked up after 6:05 p.m.
INDIVIDUALIZED CARE
TLC Center strives to ensure that each child’s care is based on individual strengths, interests, and needs by incorporating elements of each child’s culture, goals, and aspirations for their child through regular family input.
INJURIES
Serious injuries are reported to the family immediately. Minor cuts and abrasions are cared for by the staff. Families agree not to hold TLC Center or the staff responsible for illnesses or injuries that are beyond reasonable control to prevent. “Ouch Reports” are filled out if your child gets hurt during the day.
LICENSING CONCERNS
Let us know if you have any childcare licensing issues that need to be clarified. If you need to talk to our licensing agency they can be reached at the Department of Public Health and Human Services – Quality Assurance Division (DPHHS – QAD) at (406)444-3074.
MANDATED REPORTING
Montana Childcare regulations states that all TLC Center staff members who has reason to suspect that a child is or has been abused or neglected is required to report the matter to the child abuse hotline at (866)820-5437 within 24 hours of receiving the information.
MEALS – Breakfast, Lunch & PM Snack
TLC Center participates in the CACFP (Child & Adult Care Food Program). Individual feeding schedules and special diets are accommodated as necessary. Report any food allergies and intolerances. Proper forms will need to be completed for these accommodations, please see the administrative staff.
Meal times – Breakfast @ 8:30 am **Lunch @ 11:15 **Afternoon snack @ 2:30
Infants Infants are on their own individual feeding schedule. Parent’s Choice (WalMart) and Members Mark (Sam’s Club) formula, baby cereal, and jarred foods are provided. Families may provide their own brand name formula such as Similac and Enfamil. We encourage & support mothers who breast feed and will feed expressed breast milk.
Toddlers & Preschool Children Children in attendance during meal time receive balanced, nutritious meals.
NAP & REST TIME
All children have a quiet time. Individual nap schedules are accommodated as necessary. Infants are on their own individual nap schedule. Children need one small blanket for nap/rest time. Cots and sheets are provided. Children transition from a crib to a nap cot at age twelve (12) months. Blankets & sheets are laundered weekly.
NEWSLETTER
Newsletters are emailed monthly. Hard copies are available on the sign-in desk or can be sent home upon request. It includes notes from the office, information about upcoming events, staff changes, birthdays, and classroom activities.
NOTES & MESSAGES
Check your Family Mailbox – below the sign-in/out desk – for the newsletter, notes or messages from the office and/or teachers. Also check the bulletin board by the entry way for posted information.
“Daily Care Logs” are sent home daily for children in diapers or pull ups. They include when your child was changed, what and how much they ate and drank, and any supplies needed. Care logs are available upon request for older children.
OPEN DOOR POLICY
TLC Center maintains an open-door policy for all currently enrolled families and relatives listed on the authorized pickup forms.
Families and relatives are welcome and encouraged to drop-in at any time during normal childcare hours. Please feel welcome to call and check on your child at any time during the day.
PRESCHOOL ACTIVITIES
All children participate in the Preschool program. Activities include: Arts & crafts, Cooking activities, Math & Science, Motor skills – large & small, indoors & outdoors, Sensory, Music & movement, songs, fingerplays, Emotional social activities, Stories & reading
SIGNING IN/OUT & RELEASE OF CHILDREN
According to Montana Child Care Licensing, the Early Childhood Services Bureau and the Child Care Food Program each enrolled child must be checked in and out daily by a parent or other authorized person. Parents or other authorized adults must check in/out using the Smartcare Kiosk or APP. If a child leaves the center and returns for a second time, they must be clocked out and back in.
Please ensure that you leave your child with a member of the TLC staff. Please do not leave them in the entryway/empty classroom without an adult. Also, please do not send your child(ren) with any medications in their bag. Such items as infants’ Tylenol, gas drops, diaper cream, or any other item that contains a safety label should always be given directly to a teacher or member of management. We encourage families to come into the classroom and engage with the teaching staff at drop off as this builds a nurturing foundation of trust and communication. It also ensures that the teacher is aware your child has entered the classroom.
Children can only be released to people listed on the “Authorized Pick Up” form. ID’s will be requested.
Children are also checked in daily on the DAILY ATTENDANCE roll sheet in each classroom. Attendance records are kept in both electronic and paper format and are available to authorized agencies such as QAD-Licensing and CACFP.
If your child will be arriving late. Please call no later than 9 am to ensure that we retain staffing for your childs care.
At TLC Center, the safety of our children is our highest priority—from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave our care. Our parking lot may feel like a safe extension of our building, but it is important to remember that real-world hazards exist even just outside our door. With a busy road nearby and vehicles that sometimes speed through, we must be vigilant, mindful, and proactive to ensure that every child arrives and departs safely each day.
Parking Lot Recommendations
- Holding Hands is a Highly Recommended:
During drop-off and pick-up times, all children must be physically accompanied by an adult and holding hands or within arm’s reach of your child while in the parking lot. Children’s sense of safety here is strong, but their awareness of moving vehicles is not. Hand-holding keeps little explorers close, safe, and secure. - Adult Supervision to the Door:
Children must be escorted to the building door at drop-off and from the door to the vehicle at pick-up. Staff members will warmly greet each child at the classroom entrance to ensure a safe transition. - No Running in the Parking Lot:
Parking lots may seem like perfect racetracks to young eyes. Please remind your child that the parking lot is a “walking-only zone.” - Stay Alert:
Adults must remain attentive in the parking lot. We know mornings can be a juggling act, but please avoid phone calls or texting until you and your child are safely inside or buckled in your vehicle.
Why This Matters:
Young children naturally trust that the world around them is safe, they may not notice a car reversing or a distracted driver. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that our drop-off and pick-up routines protect them from potential dangers that they cannot yet fully understand.
At TLC Center, we believe in teaching safety through loving guidance. After all, hand-in-hand isn’t just about holding on tightly, it’s about leading them confidently into a world where they know they are cherished, protected, and capable.
TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS
All teachers meet the Montana state childcare regulations.
This includes:
- Pediatric and Adult CPR and 1st Aid certified
- Current immunizations
- Minimum of 8 hours ECP approved annual training.
- State & federal fingerprint background checks.
TOYS
Toys are not to be traded or borrowed without the center’s and family’s permission. TLC Center and staff are not responsible for toys that get lost or broken that are brought from home.
TV & MOVIES
Children are not allowed to watch TV. A DVD movie is occasionally watched for special occasions.
DISCIPLINE – POSITIVE CHILD GUIDANCE POLICY
The primary responsibility for raising young children rests with the parents/guardian and our role as childcare providers is to support and partner with the families in which we serve to best meet the ever-changing needs of the child. Positive child guidance techniques used at TLC Center are one component of quality childcare that we take great pride in employing appropriately. We believe that all domains of learning are supported during play and through strong, positive interactions with adults. Promoting healthy social and emotional development, including self-control, is a fundamental responsibility of our program. No single child guidance technique will work for every child; therefore, it is important for the teachers of TLC Center to be educated on best practice and a variety of techniques. The following guidance procedures are to control, develop social consciousness and acquire the skills necessary for lifelong success in the real world.
- Child guidance techniques are implemented consistently and appropriately, based on each child’s individual needs and the specific situation.
- Teachers and support staff routinely model respect, self-control, caring for others and socially appropriate behavior.
- The learning environment is set up to encourage positive behavior and minimize frustration, with consistent routines and materials that can be accessed and put away independently.
- Children are encouraged to handle the natural consequences of behavior. For example, a child who spills their milk will be given a towel to assist in cleaning the mess. If a child rips a book, they will be given tape and asked to assist in fixing the damages they have done. This allows children to learn from experience and practice making amends for their choices.
- Smiles, high fives, applause, and other forms of positive feedback are used to reinforce appropriate and socially acceptable behavior.
- Redirection to another activity is the primary technique used when inappropriate behavior occurs. Often this is all that is needed to self-correct the behavior.
- Talking through situations and problem solving are used to help children discover more appropriate and socially acceptable ways to satisfy their needs.
- If physical or emotional harm to him/herself or other has occurred a child may be removed from the situation until the child has calmed. When calm, time will be spent discussing appropriate alternative behaviors.
- If a child is fussy, crying or otherwise distraught, staff will cuddle, hug, rock and attempt to soothe the child until they are calm. No child will be ignored who is struggling emotionally.
- If a child consistently exhibits unacceptable behavior at TLC Center, or if you would like help with behaviors that occur at home, we will schedule a parent/teacher conference to discuss how to best meet the needs of the child.
- At all times, the child guidance procedure employed by TLC Center staff will be carried out in a loving and nurturing manner to encourage self-control, to teach self-respect, respect for others and respect for property.
As a licensed facility TLC Center will adhere to all licensing regulations pertaining to child guidance. We will never include punishment that is humiliating or frightening to a child such as hitting, spanking, shaking, verbal or sexual abuse, withholding or forcing food, or punishment for lapses in toilet learning. These forms of physical punishment are prohibited and will never be used, even at the request of a parent. TLC staff will observe the children, and then identify events, activities, interactions, and other factors that predict and may contribute to challenging behavior. Rather than focus only on eliminating the behavior, teaching staff shall focus on teaching the child social, communication, and emotional regulation skills and using environmental modifications, activity modifications, adult or peer support and other teaching strategies to support the child’s appropriate behavior. Teaching staff shall respond to challenging behavior, including physical aggression, in a manner that provides for the safety of the child and the safety of others in the classroom. Our response will be calm, respectful and provide the child with information on what is acceptable behavior and what is not. We will document challenging behaviors and the intervention methods that were attempted in a behavior tracking log. Teacher-parent discussions regarding a child’s behavior shall be held in private and shall focus on working as a team to develop and implement an individualized plan that supports the child’s inclusion and success. If necessary, intervention shall ensure each child has access to professional services, such as referrals to the educational cooperative behavioral specialist, the ADE-funded regional support network for early autism identification, community mental health center and/or a private therapist.
BITING
Biting is a common stage of development for children under three. While it is developmentally typical, we recognize that it can be upsetting for everyone involved. At TLC Center, we work to prevent biting by creating supportive environments, teaching emotional/social skills, and closely supervising children.
Confidentiality: We never share the identity of the children involved.
If a child is bitten: The injured child is comforted and cared for immediately. Parents of both children are notified, and an incident report is completed.
If a child bites: The child is calmly reminded that “biting hurts,” redirected to appropriate play, and shadowed by staff to prevent further incidents.
Ongoing concerns: If biting continues, teachers, parents, and administration will meet to create a plan of action. Additional strategies may include increased monitoring, changes in environment, or referral for outside support if needed.
When biting persists: If repeated biting threatens the safety of others despite intervention, temporary removal from the classroom, or ultimately termination of care, may be considered. Children who bite more then twice in a day are sent home for the remainder of the day.
References:
All About Biting http://www.ccie.com/library/5018461.pdf
Aggressive Behavior in Toddlers https://www.zerotothree.org/resources/16-aggressivebehavior-in-toddlers
Biting, Hitting, Kicking and other Challenging Toddler Behavior
http://www.janetlansbury.com/2012/09/biting-hitting-kicking-and-other-challenging-toddlerbehavior/
What to Do When Toddlers Bite http://www.handinhandparenting.org/article/what-to-dowhen-toddlers-bite/
Toddler Bites http://www.regardingbaby.org/2012/04/10/toddler-bites/
Understanding and Responding to Children Who Bite https://families.naeyc.org/learning-anddevelopment/child-development/understanding-andresponding-children-who-bit
HEALTH AND ILLNESS POLICY
The following Health Policy is mandated by the licensing agency (DPHHS/QAD). Illness is a common occurrence whenever groups of children spend time together. It is important for the center to exclude sick children to protect, as much as possible, the entire group. Changes may be made for such occurrences as pandemics. These changes then take precedence over previous policies.
CHILDREN MUST BE FULLY IMMUNIZED PER THE CITY COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT (CCHD) IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE.
CHILDREN WITH A TEMPERATURE, RASH, VOMITING, OR WHO APPEAR ILL WILL NOT BE ADMITTED. ARRANGEMENTS MUST BE MADE TO PICK UP YOUR CHILD IMMEDIATELY.
The following signs and symptoms are our exclusion policy and serve to determine whether a child can remain at the center or be sent/kept home.
- A temperature over 100.4 degrees F. or greater taken in the ear or under the arm with symptoms or a change in behavior. An elevated temperature is usually a sign of illness and/or infection.
- EXCEPTION: Children with an immunization-related fever need not be excluded if they are able to participate in the daily routine.
- Any intestinal disturbance (an upset stomach accompanied by vomiting and/or diarrhea) within the past twenty-four (24) hours.
- The following infections warrant exclusion. Children must be treated with an antibiotic for 24 hours before returning to childcare. Strep throat, Impetigo, Conjunctivitis /Pink-eye – any discharge, matting, or redness of the eye.
- Any undiagnosed rash over multiple parts of the body or any open, undiagnosed sores.
- Any frequent and/or severe coughing.
- A child who is ill with any symptoms and is unable to participate in the usual childcare activities warrants that he/she should stay home.
A child too ill to participate in all activities, including playing outdoors, is also too ill to attend childcare.
If your child becomes sick with a contagious illness such as the flu, strep throat, chicken pox, pink eye, etc., please inform the childcare promptly so we may notify the other families, and properly disinfect the environment.
If at any time medication (including Tylenol & other OTC products) is to be administered to your child, the medication must be accompanied by a signed over-the-counter medication administration form from the parent. Prescription medication must be in the original container. The label must include:
1. Child’s name 2. Name of the medication 3. Date 4. Dosage
Fever-reducing medication such as Tylenol cannot be administered to keep a fever down.
Your support is appreciated to help us provide all families with a healthy child care center as possible!
STATEMENT OF IMMUNIZATIONS: A Commitment to Community Health
At TLC Center, every decision we make is guided by our commitment to the well-being, development, and safety of the children in our care. Just as we thoughtfully create classroom environments based on the latest research in early childhood development, and participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) to ensure children receive balanced, nourishing meals, we also stand firmly in support of routine childhood immunizations.
TLC Center is a pro-vaccine childcare program. This means we actively support and encourage families to fully vaccinate their children according to the recommended schedule from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Why Immunizations Matter, Especially in Childcare Settings
Vaccines protect children from serious illnesses like measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and whooping cough (pertussis), diseases that were once nearly eliminated in states like Montana but are now reemerging in communities with lower vaccination rates. According to the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, Montana has seen a decline in childhood immunization rates in recent years, placing vulnerable populations, including young children in group settings, at higher risk.
In early learning environments, herd immunity is critical. Herd immunity occurs when a high percentage of the population is vaccinated, limiting the spread of contagious diseases and protecting those who cannot yet be vaccinated, such as infants under 12 months who are too young to receive certain vaccines like MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) and Varicella (chickenpox).
When vaccination rates fall below the threshold needed for herd immunity (generally 90–95%, depending on the disease), outbreaks become more likely, even of diseases we haven’t seen in decades. This poses a real and preventable threat in group childcare settings where children play, eat, and learn in close quarters.
The Science is Clear
- Vaccines are safe and effective. They undergo rigorous testing before approval and are continually monitored for safety. (CDC)
- Vaccinated children are significantly less likely to become seriously ill from vaccine-preventable diseases and are also far less likely to transmit illness to others. (AAP)
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), immunization prevents 3.5 to 5 million deaths every year worldwide.
Our Program’s Position
TLC Center recognizes that parenting comes with many decisions, and we deeply value our partnerships with families in making choices that reflect the best interests of children. While we do not wish to exclude families, we are transparent in our values and our commitment to:
Promoting the health and safety of all enrolled children.
Using science-informed practices in every area of our program.
Protecting the most vulnerable in our care, including infants and immunocompromised children, through responsible, community-wide health practices.
We appreciate the trust you place in us to care for your children, and we remain available to discuss any questions you may have about this important topic.
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Immunization Schedules.” https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/index.html
CDC. “Immunization Safety and Monitoring.” https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/index.html
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “Immunizations.” https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/immunizations/
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). “Immunization Program. https://dphhs.mt.gov/publichealth/immunization/
World Health Organization (WHO). “Immunization Coverage.” https ://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/immunization-coverage
CDC. “Community Immunity: The Basics.”https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/imz-basics.htm
CDC. “Recommended Vaccines by Age.”https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/by-age/index.htm
MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION POLICY
Rationale: When medication is administered at TLC Center, children will be given medication in the safest possible way for the child, family, and staff. Administering medication is based on the family consent, the child’s health care provider recommendations, and the Montana medication guidelines. TLC Center will administer medications when the family’s work schedule prevents them from giving it at home. This Medication Policy was developed so that medications will be administered in a safe and expedient manner that protects children and staff.
- Non-prescription and prescription medications will ONLY be administered when the family has given written consent that a specific medicine is to be given to a specific child. A separate consent form must be completed for each medication.
- Prescription medication must be the original child-proof container that is labeled by a pharmacist with the child’s name, the name of the medication, the date the prescription was filled, the name of the health care provider who wrote the prescription, the medication’s expiration date, and the administering, storage, and disposal instructions.
SUGGESTION: When getting your child’s prescription filled at the pharmacy, request that the medication be split into two containers so that one container can be provided for the center and the other for home.
- Over-the-counter (OTC, non-prescription) medications must be in the original child-proof container that is labeled with the child’s first and last name, specific legible instructions for administering and storage supplied by the manufacturer, and the name of the health care provider who recommended the medication.
- A Medication Authorization Form, provided by childcare licensing, is required to be completed and signed by the family each time a medication is needed.
- The staff person administering the medication completes a TLC Center Medication Dispensing Log to record the date, time, medication, dose, and initial the form.
- The Medication Authorization Form and Dispensing Log become part of the child’s personal Health History and are filed.
- Only staff trained in medication administration are allowed to administer medications.
- Medication may be given for a recurring problem, an emergency, or a chronic condition. The instructions for the medication must include the child’s name, the name of the medication, the dose of the medication, how often the medication may be given, the conditions for use, and any precautions.
- Medications will be stored at the recommended temperature, in a child-proof container, in a place inaccessible to children. Medication will be administered in the area where it is stored.
- Expired medications will be sent home. Any medication not picked up within five days after being requested will be disposed of in the recommended manner.
- TLC Center cannot provide or stock any medication. All medications administered at TLC Center must be provided by the family for their own child.
- This policy applies to all children, families, guardians, and providers.
- Parents/Guardians will be notified if their child suffers any side effects from medication. If the child is in distress due to an adverse effect or serious allergic reaction, 911 will be called.
- Parents/Guardians will be notified if a medication error or incident occurs. A Medication Error Incident Report will be completed by the staff person administering medication and co-signed by TLC Center management.
- Parents/Guardians will be provided a copy of this policy in the Parent Handbook upon enrollment of their child at TLC Center.
- Medication Authorization forms are available at the sign-in desk and in the childcare office. Reminder: Medication cannot be administered unless the correct form is completed. If a family fails to sign the consent form or fails to provide the health care provider’s prescription information and recommendations, the medication will NOT be administered.
References: Montana Medication Administration Correspondence Course and Montana Childcare Licensing regulations
This policy is reviewed annually by TLC Center Management at the time of our license renewal in January and changed or adapted with the recommendations of DPHHS/QAD Childcare Licensing, City/County Health Department or any health consultant serving our program. This policy is effective January 20, 2011. Revised & Updated Yearly 1/21, 1/22, 1/23, 1/2024
- INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY POLICY
“Inclusion and participation are essential to human dignity and to the enjoyment and exercise of human rights. Within the field of education, this is reflected in the development of strategies that seek to bring about a genuine equalization of opportunity.” The Salamanca World Statement (UNESCO 1994:11) – signed by 92 governments (see p. 64 of Special Ed. Needs, Inclusion and Diversity by Frederickson, N, & Cline, Tony (2002)
TLC Center believes every child and family matters, and therefore, we need to recognize the social, economic, and cultural diversity within our community to ensure that no child or family ever feels excluded.
We strive to:
- Treat each child as an individual and respect ALL religions and cultures.
- Encourage positive role models, displayed through toys, imagery within the classroom via books, posters, etc., that promote non-stereotypical images.
- Encourage all children to join in activities such as dressing up, role play, dolls, riding bikes, etc. No child shall be excluded based on gender or cultural background.
- Celebrate festivals/holidays, ensuring that we are inclusive of ALL children attending TLC.
- Welcome any parent/guardian or relative who would like to be involved in widening our education about personal cultures and beliefs relevant to the child’s home life. This is ensured through our “Open Door” policy.
- Train all TLC Center staff on inclusion within the Early Childhood Education field.
- Never decline enrollment based on family dynamics, disabilities, cultural or religious beliefs.
- Consult all families about their social and cultural backgrounds so that they may feel confident that their culture will be reflected within the program, and that they will have the opportunity to participate in the program and to feel valued and included.
- Partner with families to provide care that meets the child’s needs and is consistent with the family’s culture, beliefs, and practices. Specific requests will be honored when practical to demonstrate respect and ensure continuity of care for the child.
Supporting Children with Developmental Delays
Our center is committed to inclusion and making reasonable modifications to support children with developmental delays. We aim to help every child thrive alongside their peers.
However, there are rare cases when:
- There’s a direct threat to safety: If a child’s behavior poses a serious risk to others, and that risk cannot be safely managed with support strategies.
- Needs cannot be met despite support: If reasonable modifications and efforts have been made, but are not enough to meet a child’s needs without fundamentally altering our program.
In these situations, we work closely with families to explore all possible solutions. Sometimes, this may mean acknowledging that our center may not be the best fit for a particular child, and that’s okay. Every child deserves a place where they can be supported fully.
Our goal is always inclusion, compassion, and collaboration, with the child’s best interests at heart.
MANDATORY CIVIL RIGHTS STATEMENT In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.
To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: How to File a Complaint, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:
- Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410
- Fax: (202) 690-7442; or
- Email: program.intake@usda.gov.
THIS INSTITUTION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FACILITY
NAPPING PROCEDURE POLICY
MONTANA STATE LICENSING 37.95.1005 INFANT AND TODDLER SLEEPING (3) Each infant must be provided with a crib or playpen for sleeping. At the discretion of the parent and provider, a cot or mat may be used once a child turns one year of age as long as a safe sleep environment is provided. Children one year of age through 18 months who are placed on a mat must have a signed permission statement in the file indicating that the parent has given permission for their child to be placed on a mat. When cots and mats are used, an early childhood teacher must remain with the child while they are sleeping.
(a) Infants and toddlers must not be allowed to sleep in a car seat, infant swing, or other infant apparatus. (b) Cot or mat surfaces may be of plastic or canvas, or other material that can be cleaned with a detergent solution and allowed to air dry.
CRIB TO COT TRANSITION
Children transition from a crib to a cot at twelve months of age. The transition is done as gradually as needed by the child. Staff support the transition by sitting on the floor next to the cot and gently rubbing the child’s back while listening to soft music. The cots are far enough apart to allow the staff to access each child. When napping, children are directly supervised at all times. All cries are investigated immediately.
COT AND BLANKETS
TLC Center provides each child with a cot and a cot sheet. Parents provide a small blanket, as this gives the child “security from home”. The cot sheets and blankets are laundered weekly, or more if necessary. Sheets and blankets are stored in separate Ziplock Bags labeled with each child’s name. Cots are sanitized daily.
SAFE SLEEP POLICY
Rationale: Providing infants with a safe place to grow, learn, and sleep is very critical to the health of infants.
TLC Center follows the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Montana State Childcare regulations to provide a safe sleep environment and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in infants up to one year old.
This policy applies to all staff, paid or unpaid, when they place an infant to sleep at TLC Center.
SLEEP POSITION 1. Infants are placed flat on their backs to sleep every time unless there is a physician’s waiver on file. Information from the physician waiver will be posted near the child’s crib without identifying the medical reason. A copy of the waiver will also be kept in the child’s file. 2. Infants are NOT placed on their side to sleep. 3. No wedges, blankets, or infant positioners are used. 4. Infants are placed on their back to sleep, but when an infant can easily turn over from their back to front and front-to-back, they can remain in whatever position they prefer to sleep.
SLEEP ENVIRONMENT
TLC Center uses Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines for safety-approved cribs and mattresses. Crib slats will be less than 2 3/8” apart. Infants will not be left in a crib with drop downside. Playpen weave will be less than ¼”.
- Infants are not placed on soft surfaces.
- Only one infant will be placed to sleep in each crib. Siblings, including twins, etc., cannot share a crib.
- The crib has a firm, tight-fitting mattress covered by a fitted sheet.
- An infant’s head shall ALWAYS remain uncovered.
- The crib is free of loose bedding, toys, pillows, quilts, sheepskin, and other soft objects.
- Infants who use pacifiers are offered their pacifier when they are placed to sleep. It will not be placed back into their mouth if it falls out while sleeping.
Pacifiers will be cleaned between each use, checked for tears/holes, and will not be coated in any solutions. Parents will be asked to replace their child’s pacifier as needed.
- To avoid overheating, the temperature of the infant’s room is kept at a level that is comfortable for a lightly clothed adult.
- Pacifiers and bibs are not tied around an infant’s neck or clipped onto an infant’s clothing during sleep.
- Smoking is not allowed in or near the center.
SUPERVISION
- When infants are in their cribs, they are always within sight and hearing of staff.
- All staff members will visibly check on the sleeping infant frequently.
- When the infant is awake, they will have supervised tummy time to help strengthen their muscles and develop normally.
- Infants are not permitted to sleep in car seats, infant swings, bouncers, or other infant apparatus.
- Infants will spend limited time in car seats, swings, bouncers, and other infant apparatus when they are awake.
TRAINING
- All staff, including substitutes and volunteers, are trained on TLC Center safe sleep policies and practices.
- Safe sleep practices are reviewed with all staff yearly.
- New staff are trained in these policies before being allowed to care for infants.
- Documentation that all staff have read and understood these policies is kept on file.
- All staff are trained in First Aid and Infant/Child CPR.
References: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Consumer Product Safety Commission, and Montana Childcare Licensing regulations
This policy is reviewed annually by TLC Center management at the time of our license renewal in January and changed or adapted with the recommendations of DPHHS/QAD Childcare Licensing, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and Consumer Product Safety Commission.
This policy went into effect on April 1, 2015.Safe Sleep Policy 2024 – Reviewed & Revised Yearly – 1/21, 1/22. 1/23, 1/2024
SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION POLICY
RATIONAL: We strive to make our TLC Center a safe and welcoming environment for all children, staff, and families. To accomplish this goal, we occasionally discover our center is not the appropriate fit for a child/family or we do not have the resources and/or training for a child with an atypical behavioral need.
EXPULSION is defined as terminating the enrollment of a child/family within the program.
SUSPENSION is defined as reducing the amount of time a child is permitted to attend, either by hours/days or suspending their attendance for a specified period.
TLC Center reserves the right to decide the appropriate course of action when choosing between suspension and expulsion. Expulsion and suspension are not considered until all other interventions have been exhausted, and there is an agreement that expulsion is in the best interest of the child.
CAUSE FOR IMMEDIATE EXPULSION OF A FAMILY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
- The child is at risk of causing significant injury to the other children, employees, or him/herself.
- The parent threatens physical harm or has intimidating actions towards children, staff, or members of
management.
- The parent exhibits verbal abuse towards children, staff, or members of management.
- Consistent failure to attend, or give notice of late arrival or absences in a timely manner.
- Failure to follow TLC Center Policies and Procedures.
- Failure to provide required documents annually, including but not limited to: Immunization/Pediatric Health Statements, Enrollment Forms, and CACFP Income Eligibility Forms.
- Other: This is at the discretion of TLC Center management.
CAUSE FOR SUSPENSION/EXPULSION OF A FAMILY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
- Failure to pay/habitual lateness in payments.
- Failure to complete required forms.
- Habitual tardiness when picking up your child(ren).
- Verbal abuse to any staff member of TLC Center.
- Other: This is at the discretion of TLC Center management.
CAUSE FOR EXPULSION OF A CHILD RELATED TO THEIR BEHAVIOR/ACTIONS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
- 1. Failure of a child to adjust to childcare after a reasonable amount of time.
- Uncontrollable or repeated tantrums/angry outbursts.
- Prolonged tantrums where staff are unable to calm a child after a reasonable amount of time.
- Physically harming staff or other children.
- Bullying or excessive/repeated hurting of other children. Such as pushing, kicking, biting, and punching.
- Repeated, excessive biting by toddlers. Some biting is a typical developmental behavior in infants/toddlers.
- Biting by older preschool-aged children.
- Threatening other children with violent words.
- Repeated swearing or cursing.
- Destroying childcare property.
- Defiance that continues after behavior modification methods are used by staff.
- Health and Safety: If a child’s needs exceed the center’s capacity to safely provide care for the enrolled child or other children.
- Other: This is at the discretion of TLC Center management.
SUSPENSION GUIDELINES
- If remedial actions have not worked, the child may be suspended if we feel the situation warrants it.
- The child’s parent/guardian will be advised verbally AND in writing.
- The suspension is intended to be used by the family to work on the required behavioral challenges required for the child to return to the center.
- Failure to meet the terms may result in termination.
EXPULSION GUIDELINE
- The child’s parent/guardian will be advised verbally AND in writing.
- The child’s parents will be given a specific expulsion date. Whenever possible, TLC Center will try to provide sufficient time for the family to seek alternate care, unless this poses a serious risk to TLC Center staff, enrolled families, or children.
PROACTIVE ACTIONS ARE TAKEN TO PREVENT SUSPENSION AND/OR EXPULSION
The staff will try to redirect the child’s negative behavior by:
- Reassessing the environment, activities, and supervision
- Always use positive methods and language while interacting with children.
- Offer meaningful and responsive feedback.
- Consistently apply classroom expectations.
- Give the child a verbal warning to correct behavior.
The parent/guardian will be given written copies of the disruptive behaviors that might lead to expulsion.
Management, key staff, and the parent/guardian will have a conference to discuss how to promote positive behavior.
Families may be referred to appropriate local agencies that assist in behavior modification for the child.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD UPON ENROLLMENT
Upon initial enrollment of your child, there is a four-week probation period. During this time if our program is not suitable for your child (due to readiness, development, challenging behaviors, or other as outlined in our suspension and expulsion policy), termination of enrollment may result. Since your child’s experience should be a happy, positive, and rewarding one, re-enrollment at a later date may be recommended. Upon termination of enrollment during this probation period, tuition will be prorated based on the number of days scheduled and will be refunded accordingly. There is no refund for the one-time registration fee.
TLC CENTER HISTORY- A NOTE FROM BETH
TLC Center started in April 1985 in the basement of my mother, Debbi’s, home. The basement was remodeled, a playhouse was built, and the play area fenced. TLC was registered as a group home for 12 – 16 children and had two employees.
In September 1986, TLC started an after-school program for children attending Meadow Lark School at Bethel Lutheran Church. The school age children had a lot more room and it also freed up the “back room” at the house for the older preschool age children. This program grew quickly and was full within the first few months.
By January 1990 TLC Center had outgrown the basement so additional space was leased from Bethel Lutheran Church and the entire program moved to the church. TOT LOT was licensed for 24 – 30 children. Staff increased to five to six employees.
TLC Center continued to grow as did the church. Both programs needed more space. TLC Center moved to a leased site on Crescent Drive in October 1996. The building gave us plenty of room to expand. We were there for almost seven years.
In July 2003 TLC Center moved the site back to Bethel Lutheran Church as the church had built an addition. The move financially helped both the childcare center and the church.
TLC Center is currently licensed for 60 children between the ages 0 – 10 years old. There are 18-25 staff members including teachers, assistants, and support staff.
In August 2005 we began to shorten our name from TOT LOT Childcare to TLC Center.
TLC Center participates in the Best Beginnings STARS to Quality program through Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. In July 2016, we achieved Star Level 4.
July 2015, we became a partner with the Great Falls Early Head Start Collaborative.
In February 2016, I (Beth) took ownership of the business from my mother as she eases into retirement.
In October 2020 TLC Center expanded to add a second location on the Great Falls College campus. To distinguish the two sites – the site at Bethel Lutheran Church is referred to as TLC-BLC and the college site is referred to as TLC-GFC.
During the Spring of 2021 TLC GFC also became a Head Start facility.
TLC-GFC became a Stars to Quality program in January 2022. They were granted a STAR Level 4 in July 2022.
In 2023, TLC Center became a Childcare Aware of America (CAoA) participant.
We look forward to the growth and development of TLC Center through the staff and families.
Beth Olson
Administrator/Owner