Flexibility is the key in a program with so many variables. Children are provided with a variety of age appropriate materials and activities. Thematic lesson plans are provided and posted in each classroom weekly.  These plans provide developmentally appropriate activities based on individualized developmental checklists.  Child care staff encourage children to explore their environment and support children's growth through a combination of individual, group and adult initiated activities. There are many opportunities for parents to participate with their children.

Children gain confidence in separating from parents and creating caring relationships with Caregivers and other children.

FOOD

The Drop In Children’s Center serves breakfast, lunch, and a snack every day.  Our meal program is vegetarian, and is based on the use of whole grains and beans, fresh fruit and vegetables, and home baked snacks.  We buy organic grains and beans and local organic vegetables and fruits when possible.  We believe this style of eating provides the children with the highest quality nutrition, and we try our best to serve food that is tasty and fun for the children to eat.  Our meal program has been used as a model for other Centers throughout the state, and we work closely with children’s nutrition department of New York State in developing our menu.  All of our meals meet or exceed the nutrition standards set by the State and Federal Government.

Our style of food is in many cases somewhat different than the food the children receive at home.  There is sometimes a period of adjustment that is required by some children to get used a new way of eating.  For the most part the children eventually learn to love the food we serve and we have received numerous expressions of appreciation from parents.

 Infant formula and baby food can be provided by the Center or by the parent. (See Infant and Toddler Provisions)

DIAPERS

Diapers are checked approximately every hour. A chart near the changing area is used to keep track of times of diaper changes and other relevant information. Parents are asked to provide diapers. (See Infant and Toddler Provisions)

GROUP SIZE and CHILD/STAFF RATIOS

The Preschool Rooms have a group size of 14 children with two caregivers. The Toddler rooms have a group size of ten children with two caregivers. The Infant and the Older Infant Rooms have a group size of eight children with two caregivers.

RESERVATION POLICIES & PROCEDURES

At times it is difficult to get space for Drop-In Care. That can be frustrating for families and staff. It is important that everyone understands the rules. Please be respectful of those who must enforce them. If there are any questions or concerns, address them to the Executive Director. Thank you!

Same Day Spaces - Call or come in the same morning starting at 7:30 am to reserve a time each day. This can be used for any number of hours. Paid for at the hourly rate.

Advance Spaces - Can be reserved in advance for half-day or full-day blocks only (7:30 - 12:30 and/or 12:30 - 5:30). Paid for at block rates.

• Reservations are taken starting each Wednesday at 7:30 am for the following week.
• Reservations will not be accepted before 7:30 am.  
• Phone calls will be handled in order until all spaces are filled.
• No reservations can be made until all paperwork is returned and registration fee paid.
• Reservations can be made 1 week in advance.
• No one is guaranteed a reservation.  
• Reservations will be held for 20 minutes after the time they are scheduled for. If the person does not show up or call, the space is given to the next person in the waiting list. A person can cancel their reservation up to the time the reservation starts with no penalty. If a person misses a reservation without canceling, any other reservations that person has for the week may be given away. If this happens repeatedly, the person may lose the right to make advance reservations.

Drop-In Staff work very hard to be fair and give all the children good attention and care. Please treat them with courtesy and respect. If there are any problems or concerns, see the Executive Director.