DROP-IN CENTER ROOMS

Flexibility is the key in a program with so many variables. Children are provided with a variety of age appropriate materials and activities. 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. Parents often spend time with their children in the Drop-In Rooms sharing information with other parents and staff, socializing, or playing.

Program elements in the Drop-In Rooms are the same as those in the Full-Day Rooms. With special emphasis on the social/emotional aspects of development. Children gain confidence in separating from parents and creating caring relationships with Caregivers and other children.

FOOD

Since children arrive at the center at different times with different food needs, snacks are available at any time during the day. Children who plan to be present at lunchtime can sign up for lunch (talk with a Child Care Supervisor). 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 Full-Day Preschool has a group size of 14 with two caregivers. The Toddler/Preschool Drop-In Room and Toddler Full-Day rooms have a group size of ten with two caregivers. The Infant Drop-In Room and the Older Infant Full Day Room have a group size of eight with two caregivers. The Young Infant Full-Day Room has a group size of seven with two caregivers. These ratios are supplemented by volunteers, work study students and parent workers in order to provide as much individual attention as possible, especially in the infant room.

RESERVATION POLICIES & PROCEDURES

At times it is difficult to get space in the Drop-In Rooms. 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 concern, address them to the Executive Director. Thank you!

There are 2 kinds of spaces in the Drop-In Program:

Same Day Spaces - 3 spaces in each room are saved for same-day use. Call or come in the same morning starting at 7:30 am to reserve a time each day. 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 left on voicemail will not be valid.
• Reservations will not be accepted before 7:30 am.
• Those making reservations in person will be served before those who call on the phone.
• 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 (except children of staff members).
• DICC staff will not automatically make reservations for anyone (except children of the staff).
• 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.