Great Falls Child Care – Call Us: 406-453-6670

TLC Center

Great Falls Child Care

Policies & Procedures

Welcome to TLC Center!

At TLC, we prioritize safety, convenience, and the well-being of every child. Below are key details about our facilities, policies, and what to expect.

Access & Security

  • TLC at Great Falls College: Secure building requiring a pin code for access.

  • TLC BLC: Open to the public during operational hours without code restrictions.

Parking Guidelines

  • Idling: We discourage vehicle idling unless necessary to maintain interior or engine temperatures in extreme weather conditions.

Absences

  • Please notify us as soon as possible if your child will be absent. After 5 consecutive days of absence, your child’s spot may not be guaranteed unless we’ve been informed.

Clothing Recommendations

  • Play Clothes: We encourage comfortable clothing as activities may get messy.

  • Change of Clothes: All children should have a spare set of clothes at the center.

Infants & Toddlers

  • Diapers: Families provide diapers for infants and toddlers.

  • Toilet Training: Toilet training can begin around 18 months with family support. Pull-ups may delay the process.

Outdoor Play

  • Summer: Closed-toe shoes like tennis shoes are recommended for outdoor play.

  • Winter: Dress for the weather! Children aged 1 and up go outside daily. Send hats, boots, snow pants, and mittens to ensure warmth and comfort.

Community Resources & Family Engagement

At TLC, we believe in supporting families and providing access to helpful community resources and personalized learning insights. Here's an overview of the services and programs available.

Community Resources

  • A list of local resources is available on the Parent Bulletin Board.

  • You can also find copies at the sign-in/out desk and the office.

  • Need resources via email? Simply reach out, and we’ll be happy to send them.

Conferences, Assessment, & Screening

We are committed to tracking each child's developmental progress and involving families in their child's educational journey.

  • Data Collection: Our trained teachers use ongoing observational methods to assess children from birth through kindergarten. Weekly data is collected through written logs to monitor individual progress and group interests, helping shape the curriculum.

  • Family/Teacher Conferences: Conferences are scheduled twice yearly, focusing on developmental strengths, areas of growth, and future goals. Families are encouraged to attend and collaborate in setting these goals, though attendance is optional. If needed, conferences can be scheduled at any time upon request.

  • Developmental Screenings: We regularly use the ASQ (Ages and Stages Questionnaire), a trusted tool that helps assess developmental milestones in children aged 1 month to 5 ½ years. This parent-friendly tool ensures that potential developmental concerns are identified early, providing the best chance for success.

Lesson Planning & Confidentiality

At TLC, we prioritize individualized lesson planning and maintaining confidentiality for every child and family.

Lesson Planning

Our lesson plans are tailored to each child's unique needs, using both individualized planning and pre-made intentional teaching cards. These are designed to address core learning domains and specific objectives.

  • Head Start Performance Standards: We follow established standards to ensure a high-quality educational experience for all children.

  • Early Head Start: We assist with the implementation of T.S. Gold and conduct regular curriculum assessments to track progress.

  • Assessments:

    • TPOT & TPITOS assessments are conducted by Family Connections and Head Start.

    • Stars to Quality Assessments review and rate our curriculum and lesson implementation.

  • Purpose of Assessment: Assessments are integral to refining our programs and continuously improving our educational offerings.

Confidentiality

We take your family’s privacy seriously.

  • Child/Family Information: All personal information is kept confidential. We will not share any details about your child or family without your consent.

  • Access to Records: Children’s records are available upon request by:

    • Authorized administrators and educators with consent

    • Parents or legal guardians

    • Regulatory authorities (e.g., Montana Childcare Licensing)

Contacting TLC Center

We are here to help! Feel free to reach out to us through the following methods:

  • GFC: 406-866-0089

  • BLC: 406-45-6670

  • If we are unavailable, please leave a message, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

For email inquiries:

Additionally, you can leave a message for management or your child’s teacher using the notepad located next to the sign-in/out sheets.

 

Positive Child Guidance at TLC Center

At TLC, we recognize that parents/guardians are the primary caregivers for their children, and our role is to support and collaborate with families to meet the evolving needs of each child. We take great pride in using positive child guidance techniques to foster a healthy learning environment.

Guidance Techniques & Philosophy

Our child guidance procedures focus on prevention, not punishment, and are designed to help children:

  • Accept responsibility for their actions

  • Develop self-control and social skills

  • Foster social consciousness for lifelong success

We understand that different children require different approaches, and our staff uses a variety of techniques to support each child’s growth.

Key Practices for Positive Guidance

  • Modeling Respect & Self-Control: Teachers and staff consistently model respectful behavior and care for others.

  • Encouraging Independent Action: The learning environment is designed to minimize frustration and promote independence, with clear routines and accessible materials.

  • Natural Consequences: Children are guided to handle the natural consequences of their actions, such as cleaning up spills or repairing damage.

  • Positive Reinforcement: Smiles, high-fives, and applause are used to celebrate positive behavior.

  • Redirection: Inappropriate behavior is often redirected by introducing new activities or helping children solve problems.

  • Emotional Support: If a child is upset, staff provide comfort and soothing until they are calm, offering support as needed.

  • Time to Calm: If emotional or physical harm occurs, children may be removed from the situation to calm down before discussing alternative behaviors.

Handling Challenging Behavior

If a child exhibits ongoing challenging behaviors, we will schedule a parent-teacher conference to discuss strategies for supporting the child’s growth.

  • No Harsh Punishments: TLC Center strictly prohibits any form of humiliating or frightening punishment, including hitting, spanking, or verbal abuse.

  • Focused on Teaching: We prioritize teaching children social, communication, and emotional regulation skills, modifying activities, and using support strategies to foster appropriate behavior.

  • Behavior Tracking: Challenging behaviors are documented, and intervention methods are logged. We collaborate with families to develop personalized behavior plans, including positive behavior support strategies.

  • Professional Support: If needed, we may refer families to professional services, such as behavioral specialists or mental health support.

At TLC Center, all guidance is carried out with care and respect, focusing on helping children build self-control, self-respect, and respect for others. We work closely with families to ensure every child’s success and inclusion.

Emergency Procedures & Family Support

At TLC Center, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of every child and family. Below is important information on how we respond in emergencies, support families during crises, and encourage family involvement.

Emergency Response Plans

In the event of an emergency that requires evacuation, children will be taken to Great Falls College Campus. To stay informed:

  • Radio: Tune into K99 (98.9 FM) for updates.

  • Social Media: We will post updates on both our public and private Facebook pages.

  • Text Alerts: Smart Care text messages will be sent to all families.

Each classroom is equipped with a YIKES folder, containing detailed emergency response plans. Our staff receives annual training on emergency procedures, and this information is available upon request for all families.

Family Crisis Support

If your family is experiencing a crisis that may impact your child's emotional well-being, please let us know. We are here to support both you and your child during challenging times.

Family Involvement

We encourage families to actively participate in the center's activities. Here are some ways you can get involved:

  • Share a meal with your child

  • Share your talents, hobbies, or profession

  • Visit and observe in your child’s classroom

  • Read to the children

  • Volunteer in the classroom

  • Join us for parties and celebrations

Your involvement helps create a nurturing, community-focused environment for all children.

Resolving Differences Between Families and the Program

If any concerns or differences arise, please inform a member of the management team so we can initiate conflict resolution. We value constructive feedback and are committed to addressing any issues respectfully and promptly.

  • Written Agreement: After discussing concerns, a written agreement will be made to resolve the issue.

  • Mediated Meeting: If necessary, the owner will participate in a mediated meeting to discuss goals, expectations, and timelines for action, ensuring both parties work toward a positive resolution.

Our goal is always to maintain a relationship of trust and respect between the program and enrolled families.

Grievances & Licensing Issues

We encourage families to keep communication open. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our management team. For licensing concerns, you can also reach out to the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS/QAD) at (406) 444-3074.

Field Trips

Families will be notified in advance of any field trip activities. A signed permission slip is required for your child to participate. For children under 6 years of age and 60 pounds, a car seat must be provided by the family. Families are welcome to join us on field trips.

Required Forms

All forms must be completed prior to enrollment. Please notify us immediately of any address or telephone number changes, as it is crucial for us to keep updated contact information on file.

Holidays & Closures

TLC Center is closed on the following holidays:

  • President’s Day (February)

  • Memorial Day (May)

  • Independence Day (July)

  • Labor Day (September)

  • Thanksgiving Day & the following Friday (November)

  • Various days between Christmas Day (December) & New Year’s Day (January)

We celebrate holidays such as Easter, Halloween, and Christmas with classroom parties, songs, stories, arts & crafts, and other fun activities. Families are invited to participate, and treats may be brought in for birthdays.

Hours of Operation

TLC Center is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. There is a late fee for children picked up after 6:05 p.m..

Individualized Care

At TLC Center, we strive to provide care tailored to each child’s strengths, interests, and needs. Regular family input helps us incorporate your child’s culture, goals, and aspirations into their care plan. We aim to ensure continuity of care for each child for at least nine months before transitioning to the next age grouping.

Specialized Care

Children with specific medical needs, such as a physician’s order for special medical management, will have a trained adult on-site whenever the child is present.

Injuries

For serious injuries, families will be contacted immediately. Minor injuries such as cuts and abrasions will be treated by staff. Ouch Reports are filled out for any injury that occurs during the day. Families agree not to hold TLC Center or staff responsible for injuries or illnesses beyond reasonable control.

Mandated Reporting

In accordance with Montana childcare regulations, TLC Center staff are required to report any suspicion of child abuse or neglect to the Child Abuse Hotline at (866) 820-5437 within 24 hours. Staff suspected of abuse or neglect will be placed on unpaid administrative leave until cleared by authorities. Guilt will lead to immediate termination, and suspected individuals’ names will not be shared with families or other staff members.

Nap & Rest Time

All children have a quiet time each day, with individual nap schedules for infants. Children need one small blanket for nap/rest time. Cots and sheets are provided, and these are laundered weekly.

Newsletters

Our monthly newsletters are emailed to families and are also available in hard copy at the sign-in desk upon request. Newsletters include updates from the office, upcoming events, staff changes, birthdays, and classroom activities.

Notes & Messages

Please check your Family Mailbox located below the sign-in/out desk for newsletters, messages, or updates from teachers and the office. Additionally, our bulletin board near the entryway posts important information.

For children in diapers or pull-ups, we send home Daily Care Logs that detail when your child was changed, what they ate and drank, and any supplies needed. These logs are available for older children upon request.

Open Door Policy

TLC Center maintains an open-door policy for all enrolled families and their relatives. You are welcome to drop in at any time during childcare hours to observe, check in, or participate in activities. Feel free to call at any time to check on your child.

 

Preschool Activities

All children participate in a range of engaging preschool activities, including:

  • Arts & Crafts

  • Sensory Play

  • Music & Movement (songs, fingerplays)

  • Social-Emotional Activities

  • Stories

  • Motor Skill Development (large and small motor)

  • Cooking Activities

  • Math & Science

Signing In/Out & Release of Children

For safety, children must be checked in and out daily by a parent or authorized person using the Smartcare Kiosk or App. If a child leaves the center and returns, they must be clocked out and back in. Children will only be released to those listed on the Authorized Pick Up form, and IDs may be requested.

Daily attendance is recorded on both electronic and paper sheets and is available to authorized agencies like QAD Licensing and CACFP.

Snack & Lunch

TLC Center participates in the Child & Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We accommodate individual feeding schedules and special diets. Please report any food allergies or intolerances, and appropriate forms will be provided.

Civil Rights Statement

In compliance with USDA regulations, TLC Center is committed to non-discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or retaliation. If alternative means of communication are required, please reach out for assistance.

Infants

Infants follow their own feeding schedules, and TLC Center provides Parent’s Choice and Members Mark formula, baby cereal, and jarred foods. Families may also provide their preferred formula brands (e.g., Similac, Enfamil). We support breastfeeding and will feed expressed breast milk as needed.

Toddlers & Preschool Children

Children in attendance during meal times receive nutritious meals:

  • Breakfast: 8:30 am

  • Lunch: 11:15 am

  • Afternoon Snack: 2:30 pm

Teacher Qualifications

All teachers meet Montana state childcare regulations, including:

  • Current immunizations

  • CPR & First Aid certification

  • A minimum of 16 hours of annual training

Toys

Toys from home must not be traded or borrowed without permission from both the center and the family. TLC Center is not responsible for lost or broken toys brought from home.

TV & Movies

Children do not watch TV regularly. DVD movies are occasionally shown for special occasions.

Inclusion and Diversity

TLC Center values inclusion and celebrates diversity, treating every child and family with respect. We recognize cultural, social, and religious diversity and ensure all children feel valued. We encourage positive role models, provide diverse toys and materials, and welcome families to share their cultural backgrounds.

Health Policies

Our health policies, mandated by DPHHS/QAD, aim to protect all children. Sick children must stay home to prevent the spread of illness. Children must be fully immunized as per the City-County Health Department schedule. Children exhibiting symptoms like a fever, rash, vomiting, or diarrhea must be picked up immediately.

Exclusion Policy

Children will be excluded from the center if they exhibit the following:

  • A temperature over 101°F

  • Intestinal disturbance (vomiting, diarrhea) within the past 24 hours

  • Infections requiring 24 hours of antibiotic treatment (e.g., strep throat, impetigo, pink-eye)

  • Unexplained rashes or sores

  • Severe coughing

  • Illness preventing participation in daily activities

Medication Administration

Any medication (including over-the-counter products like Tylenol) must be accompanied by a signed form from the parent. Prescription medication must be in the original container, clearly labeled with the child’s name, medication name, date, and dosage.

Support for a Healthy Environment

Your cooperation in keeping children healthy and adhering to these policies is greatly appreciated. It helps us maintain a safe, healthy environment for all families.