Gradual Entry

Admission to Langara Child Development Centre begins with a gradual entry as agreed upon by staff and families. Gradual entry has several goals. These include:

  • Separation between the child and family be gradual and positive;
  • Child and day care staff develop a positive relationship before the child is left on his/her own;
  • Child and family are gradually introduced to, and become familiar with, the routines, activities and philosophy of the centre;
  • Child has a secure start to his/her day care experience with the support of both family and day care staff.

While we understand that gradual entry is not always convenient for families, it is a key component to a positive adjustment to day care. Usually gradual entry begins in the mornings, but we can be flexible, scheduling gradual entry around families' schedules. Before the child attends the day care full-time we require a minimum of three visits of increasing length by the child and his or her family.

Each child will be accepted on a probationary basis for a one-month period, at which time the suitability of the centre may be reviewed.

Conflict Resolution

Parents are encouraged to discuss any questions or concerns about the children's program or our procedures with day care staff. If a conflict arises, the goal is to resolve differences of opinion and find solutions that everyone can accept. We are committed to providing a caring and supportive environment for our children and families. If there continues to be a problem, a meeting can be arranged between families, staff and the Head Teacher to define the issues, state points of view and identify solutions when possible.

If a family wishes to appeal a decision, they can meet with the Head Teacher to discuss it. If the issue is not resolved, the family can meet with the Dean of Student and Educational Support Services. The Dean's decision will be final.

In the case of persistent conflicts, when all reasonable attempts to solve problems have failed, for the sake of the child, family and staff, the family will be asked to make other day care arrangements. We must at times be able to accept that our day care is not the right fit for some children and families.

 

Termination of Service

The Langara Child Development Centre can terminate its services to a family under the following circumstances:

  • If fees for services are not paid in full and on time and suitable arrangements cannot be agreed upon;
  • If the centre is unable to satisfactorily resolve a problem with a family;
  • If a family member harasses, threatens or commits a violent or unlawful act toward a staff member, child or other family involved in the program;
  • If a family picks up their child late three times or more without having made previous suitable arrangements;
  • If, in the assessment of the day care staff, a child is unable to manage safely in a group of children within the given adult-to-child ratio. In this case, termination of services will be a measure of last resort
  • All efforts will be made to accommodate the child's needs. These would include:
    • Working with the family to develop consistent strategies;
    • Requesting increased staffing through the Supported Child Development Program.