Get familiar with our rules!

At Montessori Story, we are committed to providing a nurturing, child-centered learning environment that fosters each child's natural curiosity and love of learning. We follow the principles and methods developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, recognizing the unique needs of each child and the importance of respecting their individuality.

Our mission is to empower children to become confident, independent, and compassionate individuals who are well-prepared for a lifetime of learning and success. We aim to achieve this mission by:

• Nurturing a love for learning: We believe that education is a lifelong journey, and we encourage children to become self-motivated learners who are excited to explore the world around them.
• Fostering independence: We provide an environment that allows children to develop the skills and confidence to make choices, solve problems, and become responsible for their own actions.
• Promoting social and emotional development: We value the importance of emotional intelligence and teach children to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and develop strong interpersonal relationships.
• Encouraging creativity: We believe in the power of imagination and creativity. Through open-ended activities and an enriching curriculum, we inspire children to think outside the box and express themselves through various forms of art and play.
• Emphasizing a global perspective: We celebrate diversity and teach children to appreciate and respect different cultures, traditions, and perspectives, fostering an environment of inclusivity and open-mindedness.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I am delighted to welcome you to Montessori Story. As the director of this wonderful daycare, I am truly honored to be a part of your child's early years. Our daycare is more than just a place of care; it is a community, a second home for your child, where they will grow and thrive.

At Montessori Story, we believe in the potential of every child. Our philosophy is rooted in the teachings of Dr. Maria Montessori, a pioneer in early childhood education. We provide an environment that respects your child's individuality and encourages their natural curiosity, creativity, and independence.

Our dedicated and passionate staff are committed to nurturing your child's physical, intellectual, and emotional development. We view childcare as a partnership between daycare and home, and we invite you to be an active participant in your child's early learning journey. Our open communication policy means you are always welcome to discuss your child's progress and any concerns you may have.

As you peruse this handbook, you will find valuable information about our daily routines, safety measures, and much more. We have designed this handbook to answer many of your questions and to serve as a reference guide throughout your child's time with us.

I encourage you to get involved in our daycare community, attend parent-teacher conferences, and participate in daycare events. Together, we can create a supportive and enriching environment for your child to flourish.

Thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of nurturing your child's growth and development. I look forward to getting to know you and your child and working together to make their time at Montessori Story a rewarding and memorable experience.

Sincerely, 

Elmira

Our school is proud to adhere to the Montessori approach to early childhood education, which is rooted in the pioneering work of Dr. Maria Montessori. This approach is based on several core principles:

• Child-Centered Learning: In the Montessori classroom, the child is at the center of their education. We believe that children are naturally curious and motivated to learn. Our role as educators is to guide and support them in their journey of self-discovery.
• Mixed-Age Classroom: Children in Montessori setting are grouped in mixed-age class, allowing for peer learning and mentorship. This setup fosters a sense of community and encourages older children to help younger ones, while younger children benefit from observing and learning from their peers.
• Prepared Environment: Our daycare is carefully designed to create a prepared environment that stimulates independence and exploration. Materials are within reach, and children are encouraged to choose their activities, work at their own pace, and return materials to their proper places when they are finished.
• Hands-On Learning: Montessori education places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning. Children work with a wide variety of materials that are self-correcting, enabling them to learn through trial and error. This process encourages problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of concepts.
• Freedom within Limits: Children are given a sense of freedom within clearly defined limits. This helps them develop self-discipline and respect for others' work and space. It also allows them to make choices and take responsibility for their actions.
• Observation and Individualized Instruction: Montessori teachers are keen observers of each child's interests and abilities. They provide individualized instruction and support, tailoring the curriculum to meet each child's unique needs and pace of development.
• Cultural Awareness: We emphasize the importance of cultural awareness and diversity. Children are exposed to a variety of cultural materials, helping them develop an understanding and appreciation of different cultures, traditions, and perspectives.

Montessori education offers numerous benefits for children, families, and the community as a whole:

• Holistic Development: Montessori education nurtures a child's physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development. It encourages children to become well-rounded individuals with a strong sense of self.
• Independence and Confidence: The Montessori approach empowers children to be independent, self-reliant, and confident in their abilities. This foundation of self-assuredness sets them on a path to success in all areas of life.
• Love for Learning: Montessori education instills a lifelong love for learning. Children develop an innate curiosity and motivation to explore and understand the world around them, making them enthusiastic learners throughout their lives.
• Individualized Learning: Each child's unique abilities and interests are respected and supported. This individualized approach allows children to progress at their own pace, ensuring that no one is left behind or held back.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Through hands-on learning and self-correction, Montessori children become excellent problem solvers. They learn to think critically and apply their knowledge to various situations.
• Social and Emotional Intelligence: Montessori classrooms promote the development of strong interpersonal and communication skills. Children learn to work together, resolve conflicts, and develop empathy and respect for others.
• Respect for the Environment: Montessori education fosters a deep respect for the environment and encourages children to become responsible global citizens who care for the world around them.
• Strong Foundation: Montessori provides a strong foundation for future learning, whether in traditional or Montessori settings. The skills and values acquired in a Montessori classroom are transferable and enduring.

We are proud to offer a Montessori education, knowing that it equips children with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. We look forward to witnessing your child's growth and development as they embark on their Montessori journey.

To enroll your child at our daycare, please follow these steps:

• Inquiry: Begin by expressing your interest in our daycare through our website, a phone call, by email or an in-person visit. We welcome inquiries at any time.
• Tour: We encourage all prospective families to schedule a tour of our daycare. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to observe our classroom and ask any questions you may have.
• Application: To initiate the admission process, submit a completed application form. You can obtain the application form either during your tour or by contacting our administrative office.
• Admission Decision: If your child is accepted, you will receive an enrollment packet with further information.
• Enrollment: To secure your child's place, complete the required enrollment forms and submit them, along with the deposit, within the specified timeframe. We recommend withholding the deposit until after you have signed the Parent-Provider Contract/Enrollment application and thoroughly reviewed the Parent Handbook. This approach ensures that you are comfortable with our policies and procedures before any financial transactions occur. If you have any questions or concerns regarding our childcare philosophy or practices, we encourage you to address them beforehand. Please note that your child's spot is not fully secured until we have received both the deposit and the signed Parent-Provider Contract/Enrollment application. 
• Start date: Start date is agreed upon between the parent and provider at enrollment. Childcare fees commence on the agreed-upon start date indicated in the Parent-Provider Contract/Enrollment application. While your child may begin attending on or after this date, full payment ensures that the spot remains reserved. We understand that circumstances may necessitate changes to the start date, and we accommodate such adjustments whenever possible. However, we ask for sensitivity to our position, as these practices are designed to benefit all parties involved.
• Contract duration: Montessori Story does not require a contract for a set period of time. Parents are free to enroll and discontinue childcare services as they see fit. However, we do implement a trial period for the first 30 days of enrollment, during which either party may terminate the contract without notice. Following this initial trial period, a 30-day notice from either the parent or provider is required to terminate the contract, except in cases of gross misconduct involving the provider, parent, or child, which may result in immediate discontinuation of services. This approach allows for flexibility while also ensuring a reasonable notice period for both parties involved.

We are thrilled to have your child as a part of our vibrant and diverse learning community. This section of our handbook outlines our age requirements and how our mixed-age approach fosters a rich learning environment for all children.

Age Range:

• Montessori Story welcomes children from one to five years of age.

Mixed-Age Environment:

• Our programs are intentionally designed to be mixed-age, allowing children to interact with peers across various age groups. This approach encourages a sense of community, cooperation, and provides opportunities for mentorship and leadership.

Benefits of Mixed-Age Learning:

• Social Development: Older children often serve as role models, helping younger ones develop social skills and navigate the learning environment.
• Collaboration: Mixed-age settings promote collaboration and cooperation, as children work together in diverse groups.
• Individualized Learning: Our educators tailor activities to meet the developmental needs of each child, ensuring a personalized learning experience.

Why Mixed-Age Learning?

• Real-world Preparation: Our mixed-age setting mirrors the diversity of the real world, preparing children for a lifetime of interacting with individuals of different ages.
• Holistic Development: Children learn not only from their teachers but also from their peers, fostering a holistic approach to development.

Your Child's Individual Journey

• While our programs cater to a wide age range, rest assured that our educators are committed to recognizing and supporting each child's unique developmental path. Individualized attention and care are fundamental to our approach.

Communication

• We encourage open communication regarding your child's development, experiences, and any specific needs they may have. Our team is here to collaborate with you in providing the best possible learning environment for your child.

Deposit

At Montessori Story, we require a non-refundable deposit equivalent to two weeks of childcare costs at the time of enrollment. The deposit will be credited towards the last two weeks of your child's enrollment. This deposit provides peace of mind for both parents and providers. Parents can rest assured that their child's childcare spot is secured, while providers can confidently turn away other prospective clients knowing the spot is reserved. The deposit is nonrefundable because we rely on it to hold the spot for your child, often for extended periods. 

Tuition 

Infants and Young Toddlers (from 1 to 2 years old) - $3300/month

Older Toddlers and Preschoolers (2 years old and up) - $3000/month

Payment Schedule

Tuition is typically billed on a monthly basis and is due by the first day of each month. Payment options and details will be provided in your enrollment packet upon acceptance.

Late Payments

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. If you anticipate a delay in payment, please contact our administrative office to discuss possible arrangements. Timely communication is essential to maintain a positive partnership between our daycare and your family.

Discounts

We offer a 20% sibling discount.

Our daycare operates on a regular schedule, and our hours of operation are as follows:

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

At Montessori Story, we adhere to the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) calendar for most holidays and breaks. However, we do not observe Spring and Fall Recess, and our program operates year-round, providing consistent care and educational opportunities for children throughout the year. A detailed calendar can be found in the "Calendar and Important Dates" section of this handbook.

Our daycare is closed on certain holidays, teacher work days and during scheduled breaks. These dates are outlined in our calendar. Please plan accordingly for these closures and consider alternative childcare arrangements.

Regular Attendance

Regular attendance is essential for your child's educational progress. Please ensure that your child attends daycare punctually and consistently. If your child is unable to attend due to illness or other reasons, please notify us as soon as possible.

Tardiness

We kindly request that you drop off and pick up your child on time. Tardiness can disrupt the classroom environment and may affect your child's learning experience.

Late Pick-Up Policy

Life gets busy, we understand! If you happen to be running a little late for pick-up, don't worry— we've got a grace period of 5 minutes to accommodate those unexpected moments. Beyond that, we kindly ask for a small late pick-up fee of $10 for every additional 5 minutes. Your understanding and punctuality are truly appreciated!

Absences

If your child is absent, please call or email us to inform us of the absence as soon as possible.

We want children to feel comfortable and safe in our learning environment, so we do not have a strict dress code. However, we recommend that children wear clothing that allows for movement and play. Please dress your child in casual clothes that can get dirty, as our environment encourages independence, creativity, and outdoor play. Weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable, closed-toe shoes are encouraged for outdoor and indoor activities.

Please label all your child's belongings, including clothing items, to avoid mix-ups. 

At Montessori Story, we prioritize fostering a positive and respectful learning environment. Our behavior policy is designed to encourage positive conduct, develop self-discipline, and provide guidelines for conflict resolution. Key aspects of our behavior policy include:

• Respect and Courtesy: We emphasize the importance of treating others with respect and courtesy. This includes using polite language and demonstrating consideration for one another.
• Conflict Resolution: We teach children age-appropriate conflict resolution skills, encouraging them to communicate their feelings, seek solutions, and work together to resolve disagreements.
• Positive Reinforcement: We use positive reinforcement, praise, and encouragement to acknowledge and reinforce positive behavior, helping children build confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
• Consistency: Our teachers maintain a consistent and fair approach to behavior management, providing children with clear expectations and consequences.
• Parent Involvement: We value collaboration with parents and encourage open communication to address any concerns or challenges related to a child's behavior.

It is our belief that a nurturing and respectful environment, combined with guidance and modeling of appropriate behavior, supports children in developing self-control and positive interpersonal skills.

While biting is a common behavior in young children, we take any biting incident seriously and address it promptly. Our biting policy is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of all children in our care. Key components of our biting policy include:

• Immediate Intervention: When a biting incident occurs, our teachers intervene immediately to protect the involved children and provide appropriate care.
• Communication: We inform the parents of both the child who bit and the child who was bitten. This includes detailing the circumstances surrounding the incident and the steps taken to address it.
• Observation and Documentation: We closely observe the child who bit to identify potential triggers and implement strategies to prevent future biting incidents.
• Support and Education: We work with parents and offer guidance on addressing biting behavior at home. We may also conduct workshops or meetings to educate parents on strategies to prevent and manage biting.
• Privacy and Confidentiality: We maintain the privacy and confidentiality of all children and families involved in biting incidents, ensuring that personal information is not disclosed without consent.

Our aim is to address biting behavior through a constructive and supportive approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding and preventing the triggers that lead to biting while ensuring the safety and well-being of all children in our care.

Open Communication

We value open and transparent communication between our teachers and parents. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us with any questions, concerns, or feedback. We encourage you to maintain regular communication with your child's teachers and our administrative staff.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled periodically to discuss your child's progress and address any concerns. You will be informed of conference dates and how to schedule appointments in advance.

Newsletters and Updates

We provide regular newsletters and updates to keep you informed about daycare activities, important dates, and any changes or announcements. Please ensure that you read these updates to stay connected with our community.

Contact Information

Our contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, is available in the "Contact Information" section of this handbook. We are here to assist you and support your child's educational journey.

A Prepared Environment

Montessori Story is thoughtfully designed to create a prepared environment that promotes independent learning and exploration. The classroom layout allows children to move freely and select activities that pique their interest. It is equipped with age-appropriate materials and furnishings to encourage self-directed learning.

Classroom Zones

• Practical Life: This area focuses on developing fine and gross motor skills, self-help skills, and a sense of order.
• Sensorial: The sensorial area helps children refine their senses, explore textures, sizes, colors, shapes, and learn to differentiate between different stimuli.
• Language: Here, children develop language skills through storytelling, reading, writing, and oral communication.
• Mathematics: The mathematics area introduces children to the concepts of number recognition, counting, addition, subtraction, and more.
• Cultural Studies: This area exposes children to geography, history, science, and other cultural subjects, fostering a global perspective.

Our daycare is equipped with Montessori materials that are specially designed to facilitate hands-on learning. These materials are self-correcting and allow children to explore and discover concepts independently. Some of the materials you will find include the Pink Tower, the Cylinder Blocks, the Sandpaper Letters, the Golden Beads, and more. These materials play a crucial role in helping children develop a deep understanding of abstract concepts.

Our daily schedule is designed to provide structure while allowing for flexibility to meet the individual needs of children. A typical daily schedule includes:

• Arrival Time and Greeting
• Work Time: A period during which children select and engage with various materials and activities.
• Outdoor Play: Children have the opportunity to explore and play in our outdoor area, weather permitting.
• Lunch and Snack Time: We provide nutritious meals and snacks.
• Nap/Rest Time: For younger children, this is an opportunity to recharge.
• Enrichment Activities: Engaging extracurricular activities such as Art and Music, Sports and Physical Education, and STEM, providing additional avenues for exploration and skill development.
• Circle Time: A time for group activities, stories, and discussions.
• Dismissal

We maintain a low teacher-student ratio to ensure that each child receives the individualized attention they need. Our ratios are as follows:

• Infant Program: 1/4 child to adult ratio
• Toddler Program: 1/6 child to adult ratio
• Primary Program: 1/12 child to adult ratio

These ratios allow our teachers to closely observe and support each child's development, creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment.

Our curriculum at Montessori Story is designed to provide a well-rounded education that supports the holistic development of your child. The curriculum covers the following areas:

• Practical Life: This area focuses on developing everyday life skills, such as pouring, dressing, and food preparation.
• Sensorial: We emphasize sensory exploration, helping children develop their senses of touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing.
• Language: Our language curriculum encompasses reading, writing, oral communication, and the appreciation of literature.
• Mathematics: Children explore mathematical concepts through hands-on activities, helping them develop a strong foundation in numbers and operations.
• Cultural Studies: This area introduces children to science, geography, history, and other cultural subjects, fostering a global perspective.
• Art and Creativity: We encourage artistic expression through various forms of art and creative activities.
• Physical Education: Outdoor play and physical activities promote physical development and overall health.

This curriculum is tailored to the specific developmental needs of children in each age group, ensuring that they are engaged and challenged in their learning journey.

Child-centered learning is at the core of our educational philosophy. We believe that every child is unique and that education should be a personalized experience. In our classrooms, children have the freedom to choose their activities, work at their own pace, and follow their interests. This approach fosters independence, creativity, and a love for learning.

Our teachers serve as guides, observing each child's progress and providing individualized support when needed. Child-centered learning empowers children to take ownership of their education and develop a sense of self-direction.

Observation and Documentation

Assessing your child's progress is an integral part of our educational approach. We use a combination of ongoing observation, documentation, and informal assessments to track your child's development. Our teachers maintain records of your child's accomplishments, milestones, and areas for growth.

Parent-Teacher Communication

We believe in open and transparent communication with parents. Teachers will periodically share observations and assessments with you, and you will have the opportunity to discuss your child's progress during parent-teacher conferences.  We encourage parents to reach out to teachers if they have questions or concerns about their child's development.

Collaborative Partnerships

Parent-teacher conferences are an essential part of our commitment to open communication and collaboration. These conferences provide an opportunity for you to meet with your child's teacher to discuss your child's progress, strengths, and areas for growth.

Conference Scheduling

Conferences are typically held at specific times throughout the year. You will receive information about conference dates and how to schedule appointments well in advance. However, we encourage ongoing communication and are available to meet with you at any time to address questions or concerns.

We believe that strong partnerships between parents and teachers are key to a child's success, and we look forward to working together to support your child's educational journey.

We highly value parent involvement at Montessori Story. Your participation not only strengthens our community but also enriches your child's educational experience. We offer various volunteering opportunities for parents who wish to get involved. These opportunities may include:

• Assisting in the classroom or during special events.
• Sharing your expertise or cultural experiences with the children.
• Participating in our projects.
• Helping with daycare fundraisers or events.

We encourage you to reach out to our administration to express your interest in volunteering, and we will work with you to find the best way for you to contribute to our daycare community.

Lifelong Learning for Parents

We recognize the importance of parent education and provide opportunities for parents to learn more about the Montessori approach, child development, and parenting. Throughout the year, we offer workshops, seminars, and educational sessions led by our experienced educators and outside experts. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Understanding the Montessori method and materials.
• Effective communication with your child.
• Supporting your child's academic and social development.
• Preparing your child for transitions and challenges.

We encourage all parents to take advantage of these educational opportunities to enhance your understanding of your child's educational experience and to support their growth and development. Information about upcoming workshops and events will be shared with parents in advance. Your participation in these sessions contributes to the overall success of Montessori Story community.

At Montessori Story, the health and well-being of our students and staff are of utmost importance. To maintain a safe and healthy environment for all, we have established the following Illness and Exclusion Policy.

Communicating Illness

• If your child is feeling unwell or displaying any symptoms of illness, such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, or a contagious condition, please keep them at home.
• If your child has been diagnosed with a contagious illness (e.g., strep throat, chickenpox, or the flu), please inform us as soon as possible so that we can take appropriate precautions.

Fever Policy

• Children with a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher must be kept at home. They may return to daycare once they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.

Contagious Diseases

• In the case of a contagious disease outbreak within the daycare, we will follow guidance from local health authorities. Children who have been diagnosed with a contagious disease must remain at home until they are no longer contagious, as determined by a healthcare professional.

Returning to Daycare

• Children may return to daycare when they are no longer contagious, free from symptoms, and able to fully participate in classroom activities.
• A written note from a healthcare provider may be required for certain contagious diseases or conditions before a child can return.

Immunization Requirements

• All students must meet the immunization requirements as specified by local regulations and health authorities. Documentation of immunizations or exemptions must be provided upon enrollment.

Keeping the Daycare Informed

• It is important to promptly inform us of any changes to your child's health status, including new allergies, medical conditions, or medications.

We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a healthy and safe learning environment for all children at Montessori Story. If you have any questions or concerns regarding our Illness and Exclusion Policy, please don't hesitate to contact our administration.

At Montessori Story, we prioritize the safety and well-being of your child. We understand that, at times, your child may require medication during their time with us. To ensure a smooth and secure process, please adhere to the following guidelines:

• Authorization: Prior to administering any medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter, we require written authorization from you, the parent or guardian. Please fill out our Medication Authorization Form, providing details such as the child's name, the medication name, dosage, and administration instructions. This form is available at our front desk.
• Labeling: All medication must be clearly labeled with your child's name, the name of the medication, and the prescribed dosage. If multiple children have medications, please keep them separate and labeled to prevent any confusion.
• Medication Storage: Medications will be stored in a secure, designated area, out of reach of children. They will be kept at the appropriate temperature as required by the medication's label.
• Administration: Our staff will administer medication as directed on the Medication Authorization Form. We will keep a record of all administered medications, including the date, time, and dosage. If there are any changes in your child's medication or dosage, please notify us immediately.
• Emergency Medications: In case your child has a prescribed emergency medication, such as an epinephrine auto-injector, it should be readily accessible to staff members. Please provide detailed instructions on its usage and location.

Please remember that we are not authorized to administer any medication without your explicit written consent, except in emergency situations, where we will follow our Emergency Procedures guidelines.

While we strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment for your child, it's essential to be prepared for unexpected situations. Here's how we handle emergencies:

• Emergency Contacts: Please ensure that your contact information, including cell phone numbers, is up to date. We will notify you immediately in the event of an emergency.
• Emergency Drills: We conduct regular fire, earthquake, and lockdown drills to prepare both our staff and children for unexpected events. Our trained staff will lead children to safety during these drills.
• First Aid: Our staff is trained in basic first aid and CPR. Minor injuries will be treated in-house, and you will be informed about any incident requiring medical attention.
• Communication: In case of a daycare-wide emergency, we will communicate with you through various channels, including phone, email, and our website. Please check our communication platforms for updates.

Proper nutrition is essential for your child's growth and development. At Montessori Story, we strive to provide healthy and balanced meals. Here's what you can expect:

• Meal Plans: We provide daily breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Our menus are carefully planned to include a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Please inform us of any food allergies or dietary restrictions your child may have. We will make accommodations to ensure your child's safety and well-being.
• Homemade Meals: Our on-site kitchen prepares homemade, nutritious meals. We avoid processed foods and strive to provide a well-rounded diet for your child.
• Nutrition Education: We encourage children to explore and enjoy a wide range of foods. We also incorporate age-appropriate activities that teach them about the importance of healthy eating.

Please feel free to discuss any specific dietary concerns with us, and we'll work together to ensure your child's nutritional needs are met.

We are dedicated to creating a safe and enriching environment for your child, and we appreciate your partnership in ensuring their well-being. If you have any questions or concerns regarding medication administration, emergency procedures, or dietary guidelines, please don't hesitate to reach out to our administrator. Thank you for entrusting us with the care and education of your child.

At Montessori Story, we believe in the importance of maintaining open and effective lines of communication between parents and teachers. We consider parents to be valuable partners in their child's education. Our goal is to maintain transparent and timely communication, providing you with peace of mind while your child is in our care. Our approach to parent-teacher communication includes:

• Regular Updates: Teachers provide regular updates on your child's progress, experiences, and any important developments within the classroom.
• Scheduled Meetings: Parent-teacher conferences are held periodically to discuss your child's educational journey and address any questions or concerns.
• Informal Conversations: Teachers are always available for informal discussions, and we encourage parents to reach out whenever they have questions or observations to share.
• Two-Way Communication: We value your insights into your child's needs and interests, and we encourage open dialogue between home and school.
• Written Communication: We provide written communication through a variety of methods, including newsletters, emails, and notices.
• ProCare: We utilize the ProCare mobile app, which provides real-time updates on your child's activities and milestones. As soon as an event is logged, it is synchronized across all parent accounts, allowing you to stay connected throughout the day. 

At Montessori Story, we prioritize open communication with parents, ensuring that you are kept informed about your child's day. We utilize the ProCare mobile app, which provides real-time updates on your child's activities and milestones. As soon as an event is logged, it is synchronized across all parent accounts, allowing you to stay connected throughout the day. For toddlers, we include details such as nap times and bowel movements, providing a comprehensive overview of their routine. Additionally, we promptly notify you of any incidents or observations, such as changes in eating or drinking habits or the presence of any rashes or unusual symptoms. Our goal is to maintain transparent and timely communication, providing you with peace of mind while your child is in our care.

We regularly publish newsletters and updates to keep you informed about daycare activities, important dates, and any changes or announcements. These communications provide valuable information about:

• Upcoming Events: Stay informed about our events, field trips, and special activities.
• School Policies: Be aware of any updates or changes to daycare policies.
• Educational Insights: Learn about classroom activities, curriculum highlights, and educational tips for supporting your child's learning at home.
• Community News: Stay connected with our community and the achievements of our students.

We encourage parents to read these newsletters and updates to stay engaged in your child's educational experience and to remain well-informed about all aspects of our daycare community.

Enriching Experiences

To further enrich your child's educational journey, we offer a range of extracurricular activities that can complement their learning and interests. These activities may include:

• Art and Music Classes: Explore creative expression through visual arts and music.
• Sports and Physical Education: Develop physical skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Activities: Engage in hands-on scientific experiments and explore technology and engineering concepts.

Participation in extracurricular activities is an excellent way for your child to pursue their passions, develop new skills, and form meaningful connections with peers who share their interests.

Inclusive Education

Montessori Story is committed to providing an inclusive educational environment that accommodates the diverse needs of all children, including those with special needs. Our approach to special needs and accommodations includes:

• Individualized Plans: We work closely with parents to develop individualized plans to support children with special needs, taking into account their unique requirements and goals.
• Collaboration: Our teachers and support staff collaborate with specialists and therapists to ensure that each child's needs are addressed effectively.
• Adaptations and Accommodations: We make necessary adaptations and accommodations within the classroom and curriculum to promote the inclusion of all children.
• Regular Communication: We maintain open communication with parents to discuss progress, goals, and any adjustments needed to ensure the success of their child.

Our goal is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where every child can thrive and receive the education they deserve. We believe that diversity is a strength, and it enriches our community. Please reach out to our administrative office to discuss specific accommodations or individualized plans for your child.

We place a strong emphasis on fostering a respectful and inclusive atmosphere at Montessori Story. We believe that respect is at the core of a positive learning environment. We encourage all members of our community, including students, parents, and staff, to demonstrate respectful conduct by:

• Treating others with kindness, empathy, and consideration.
• Respecting personal boundaries and individual differences.
• Using positive and polite language.
• Promoting an inclusive and welcoming environment that values diversity.

By instilling these values in our students, we aim to help them become compassionate and respectful individuals who carry these principles throughout their lives.

Our approach to discipline is rooted in positive discipline, which emphasizes teaching children self-discipline, responsibility, and the consequences of their actions. We strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn, make mistakes, and grow from their experiences. Our discipline and conflict resolution strategies include:

• Effective Communication: We encourage children to express their feelings and concerns, and we teach them healthy ways to communicate and resolve conflicts.
• Natural Consequences: Whenever possible, we allow children to experience the natural consequences of their actions, helping them learn from their choices.
• Guidance and Support: Our teachers provide guidance and support to help children understand the impact of their behavior on themselves and others, and to make more positive choices.

We believe that discipline should be a constructive and educational process that helps children develop self-control, responsibility, and a sense of empathy.

We encourage children to bring a sense of ownership and responsibility to their personal belongings, such as backpacks, lunch boxes, and jackets. To ensure a safe and organized environment, please help your child by:

• Labeling personal belongings with their name.
• Encouraging your child to take care of their belongings.
• Reminding your child not to bring valuable or delicate items to the classroom to avoid loss or damage.

Please note that Montessori Story provides all the materials and toys needed for classroom activities, so there is no need for children to bring personal toys from home.

We prioritize the safety and well-being of all children during transportation, drop-off, and pick-up times. To ensure a smooth process, please follow these guidelines:

• Arrival: Please arrive on time and accompany your child into the daycare. Our staff will be present to assist and ensure a safe transition into the day.
• Pick-up: Ensure that you arrive promptly for pick-up at the end of the day. If someone other than a parent or guardian is picking up your child, please notify us in advance.
• Transportation Safety: If you are responsible for transportation, please adhere to all safety regulations and ensure your child is secured in an appropriate car seat.

We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a safe and organized transportation and arrival process for all children at our care. Your vigilance and adherence to these guidelines help us create a secure environment for our students.

At Montessori Story, we want to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both parents and children. To achieve this, we require certain forms and documents to be completed and submitted. These forms are crucial for maintaining the safety, well-being, and educational journey of your child.

• Enrollment Agreement: This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of your child's enrollment at our daycare. It covers topics such as tuition, payment schedules, and policies. Please review it carefully, sign it, and return it to the daycare.
• Health and Immunization Records: Your child's health is a top priority. Please provide complete and up-to-date health records, including immunizations, as required by state regulations. We must ensure the safety and well-being of all children in our care.
• Emergency Medical Authorization: This form authorizes us to seek emergency medical treatment for your child in case of illness or injury while in our care. It's essential to have this on file, so we can act promptly if needed.
• Allergy and Medication Information: If your child has allergies or requires medication during daycare hours, please complete this form. This helps us create a safe environment and ensures your child's specific needs are met.
• Child Information Sheet: This form collects important information about your child, including their likes, dislikes, routines, and any specific needs or concerns. This information helps our staff provide personalized care and support.

We must have accurate and up-to-date emergency contact information on hand at all times. In case of illness, accident, or any other unforeseen circumstance, we need to be able to reach you or an authorized emergency contact quickly. Please make sure to provide the following details:

• Parent/Guardian Contact Information: Full names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.
• Emergency Contacts: Names, relationships, phone numbers, and addresses of individuals authorized to pick up your child in your absence.
• Pediatrician Information: Contact details for your child's healthcare provider.
• Authorized Pick-Up List: A list of individuals who are authorized to pick up your child from daycare. Ensure these individuals are aware of our policies and have proper identification.

We believe in capturing precious moments during your child's time at our daycare. With your consent, we will occasionally take photographs and videos of your child engaging in various activities. These images may be used for educational, promotional, or informational purposes. The photo release form allows you to grant or withhold permission for your child to be photographed or recorded.

Please review the photo release form, indicate your preference, and return it to us. Your decision will be respected at all times.

We appreciate your cooperation in completing and submitting these forms and documents promptly. They are essential for ensuring your child's safety, well-being, and a successful Montessori experience. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us.  Thank you for entrusting us with your child's early education journey.