Child & Family Studies Center

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Parent Handbook

School and Staff

Thank you for your interest in the Child and Family Studies Center (CFSC) at California State University, Northridge.

The CFSC is an educational setting for young children from the community, and their families, whose goal is to secure strong relationships between home and school. As an instructional unit and research laboratory, we strive to promote the professional growth of the university students, faculty, and staff.

Mission Statement of the CFSC:

Our mission is to: The Child and Family Studies Center (CFSC) at California State University, Northridge, is affiliated with the Department of Family & Consumer Sciences (FCS), within the College of Health and Human Development. As an instructional unit, our primary mission is to instruct and train university students to work effectively with young children and their families. We are committed to fostering the continued growth and development of the "whole child" - cognitively, socially, emotionally, physically, and creatively. An active learning approach, based upon developmentally appropriate inclusive practice, encourages self-exploration and discovery through interactions with peers, adults, and materials in the environment. Through the formation of partnerships with families, and the provision of a safe, nurturing environment, the Child and Family Studies Center acknowledges the needs of the individual child and the values of the family.

Philosophy:

As an accredited early childhood program, The Child and Studies Center (CFSC), understands that young children learn through active involvement with a variety of materials in a safe, nurturing, and enriched environment that encourages exploration and experimentation. We provide an atmosphere that promotes problem solving and values process over product. The children are encouraged to question, to hypothesize, and to think. The daily routine provides for a variety of valuable learning experiences that include individual, small group, and large group activities and interactions with children and adults.

History:

The CFSC has a long and proud history as a laboratory school. It was founded in 1967. In 1972, the CFSC was relocated to its present site, and remains an instructional unit of the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences (formerly the Home Economics Department). Since its inception, the CFSC, still fondly known as, "The Lab School, "has provided opportunities for practice in teaching, observation and research by college faculty and students.

Licensing and Accreditation:

The Child and Family Studies Center is licensed by the State of California Department of Social Services (Title XXII). All Lead Teachers have met requirement that are set forth by the state to include coursework in early childhood education, child development, and/or education. On a voluntary basis, early childhood programs may go through the process of a periodic self-study in order to demonstrate a commitment toward providing a high quality program for young children and their families. By examination of the program, emphasis is placed upon the quality of interactions between the staff and children, as well as the developmental appropriateness of the curriculum. This accreditation process is conducted every three years by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs, and complies with the guidelines set forth by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The CFSC has maintained accreditation standards since 1989. Additionally, the Department of Family & Consumer Sciences is a member of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS).

Code of Ethics:

The CFSC staff abides by the NAEYC Code of Ethics (1988) by advocating laws and regulations that enhance the quality of life for young children, by supporting the rights of children to live and learn in environments that are responsive to their developmental needs; by striving to improve competencies in providing for children's needs; and by respecting each child's uniqueness, thus enhancing each child's self-respect.

Research:

An essential mission of the CFSC is as a study and research site for faculty and graduate students. The University Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects must approve all research projects. Children may well be observed and studied in developmental and behavioral research by both university students and faculty. Photographs may be used to document children's learning and development with parent permission.

CFSC Staff:

The Administrators and Lead Teachers at the CFSC are highly qualified early childhood professionals with many years of education and experience. They are part-time faculty, instructors, or graduate assistants of the university, and are dedicated to providing a high quality, developmentally appropriate inclusive curriculum for all of the children. Additionally, their responsibilities include the training and evaluation of university students under their supervision.

CHIME Inclusion Program:

The CHIME Institute for Children with Special Needs is located in the Special Projects Office of the CFSC. As a non-public school agency, CHIME provides special education and related services within the context of the early childhood classroom. The CHIME Institute is a private, non-profit organization that is independent of the CFSC. It is operated by a Board of Directors and employs its own staff in order to assure the highest quality of services for children and families. Although funded separately, the CHIME administration and staff work collaboratively with their counterparts at the CFSC.

Student Assistant Interns:

Each academic semester, a small number of fieldwork students are selected for internship positions as student assistants. These highly qualified students are part of a teaching team, working in conjunction with a Lead Teacher to provide a developmentally appropriate inclusive curriculum in the classroom.

Inclusion assistants (or CHIME assistants) are typically assigned on a ratio of one assistant to three children identified with disabilities. Their role is to provide support for these children; to assist in the implementation of individual children's learning objectives; to plan activities and modifications to accommodate individual needs; and to collaborate as part of the CFSC teaching team.

Fieldwork Students:

The CFSC provides intensive training experiences for university students majoring in Family and Consumer Sciences, Child and Asolescent Development, Special Education, and related fields. Fieldwork students participate with the children in the classroom under the close supervision and evaluation of the Lead Teachers. Training experiences include observation, participation, curriculum planning, assessments, and the like. The more qualified students may apply for internships as student assistants. All students wear nametags and are required to enter and sign-in/out through the Main Office.

Programs Offered

Half-Day Preschool:

We offer both a Morning and Extended Day Preschool. Designed for children 2 years 9 months through 5 years of age, the programs are structured around a variety of experiences that require active participation from the children. Utilizing the Creative Curriculum & High-Scope Educational Framework respectively, classroom centers include art, science, woodworking, water and sand play, blocks, housekeeping, tabletop games, books, language related materials, and computers. Children are free to select any or all of the available activities each day. Teachers and assistants act as facilitators at the various activity centers.

Full-Day Preschool:

This program, designed for children 2 years 9 months through 5 years of age, is structured around a variety of experiences that require active participation from the children and meet their developmental needs. Utilizing the High-Scope Educational Framework, the emphasis is on working effectively with other children and adults and exploring a wide variety of ideas and materials in a "home-like" atmosphere. Classroom areas include art, dramatic play, blocks, quiet activities such as puzzles, books, language related materials, and computers. Children make plans to use any or all of the materials each day. Teachers and assistants function as facilitators of learning.

Admissions Policies and Procedures

Family Admissions/Visitors:

The CFSC is open to children from the community. We currently offer one Full Day Preschool program [7:30A-5:30P], one Extended Day Preschool Program [9:00A-3:00P] and one Half-Day Preschool program [9:00A-11:30A]. A waiting list is maintained for each program. All families that are interested in enrolling a child should call and ask to be put on the waiting list (no charge for placement on the list). Brochures may be obtained by calling (818) 677-3131.

Admission Process:

When a space becomes available, we look to our waiting list and call the parents of the next child on the list. A tour will be arranged with the parent and child, and if desired, the parent can fill out an application. Enrollment in the Full Day Preschool program is based upon a child's year-round participation in the classroom (Summer and winter wessions included). See Calendar section.

Fees:

When a child becomes eligible for a program, the family will be notified. If the family wishes to enroll the child, a seat holding fee of $150 (non-refundable) is required to hold the child's space. There is a $40 registration fee. In addition, a $10.00 emergency supply fee must accompany the completed forms before the child will be admitted to the classroom.

Tuition:

Tuition may be paid monthly, by semester, or by academic year. Payments must be made in advance of services rendered. All fees are to be submitted via Commerce.Cashnet (https://commerce.cashnet.com/csuncfsc) either by Credit Card or E-Check. Monthly payments are due on or before the first business day of each month. Statements are not mailed. A parent information white board is located in front of the main entrance that will alert parents of tuition due dates. It is the parent's responsibility to make certain that the tuition is paid in a timely manner unless special arrangements are made with an administrator. Failure to comply with this payment schedule could result in the child's dismissal from the program. The CFSC does NOT pro-rate tuitions for family vacations or absences.

Fines and Late Fees:

E-Checks that are returned to the CFSC by the bank are subject to a service charge. If more than one check is returned by the bank, all remaining payments must be made by cashier's check or money order. Please pick up your child at the end of class, and remember: a late pick-up results in a fine of $1.00 per minute.

Refunds:

No refunds or reductions in payment will be made for time missed by a child. Staff and services are provided for contracted sessions.

Files and Forms:

State Law requires an updated and complete file for each child enrolled at the center. The following school forms must be completed and filed before your child begins the program:

  • Application
  • Parent Handbook (with signed insert)
  • Identification and Emergency Information
  • Acknowledgment of Parent's Rights Notification
  • Acknowledgement of Personal Rights Notification
  • Physician's Report
  • Child Pre-admission Health History - Parent's Report
  • Photography Release
  • Child Abuse Prevention Pamphlet Receipt
  • Family History
  • Earthquake Comfort Kit, Supply Fee, and Information
  • Cultural Survey (in process of being developed)

Enrollment Agreement

Absences:

Parents should notify the CFSC if a child will be absent from school. Children who are absent for five consecutive days without notification risk being dismissed from the program. Because it is most beneficial for the child, and because university students rely upon regular attendance, it is essential that children attend school consistently, unless they are ill, have a family emergency, or other reason that is clearly in the best interest of the child. If other absences become habitual, the child risks dismissal from the program.

Withdrawals:

When families enroll in the program, they commit to the entire contracted session. Withdrawal of a child from the program prior to the end of the session must be reported, in writing, two weeks before the withdrawal takes effect. Parents are financially liable for the two weeks' tuition if such article is not given. A refund for the remainder of the session will occur only if another family can be found to fill the space.

Photographs:

Upon entry into our program, parents are asked to sign a photographic release form. For educational purposes, teachers may document children's experiences through photographs and videotape during the school year. University students enrolled in laboratory classes may use photographs of their focus children for portfolios. This is essential for the effective operation of a laboratory school. Photographs are never used for commercial purposes, other than school related events, brochures, and/or newspaper articles.

Signing In & Out:

In compliance with state licensing regulations, the parent or authorized adult (18 years of age or older), must sign the child in and out each day. Sign-in sheets are located on or near each classroom bulletin board, and must be signed with the parent or authorized person's complete name and correct time of drop-off/pick-up. Only persons authorized by the parents, in writing, may pick up the child.

Termination of Enrollment:

The following may be cause for termination of a child's enrollment:

  • Not adhering to CFSC policies
  • Repeated failure to pick up a child on time
  • Repeated failure to make payments on time
  • Failure to complete all required forms
  • Failure to report changes in information (phone number, emergency contact, etc.)
  • Repeated failure to sign the child in and out each day
  • Repeated unexcused absences by a child
  • Disruption of the normal functioning of the center
  • Determination by staff (with consultation) that the child is not benefiting from the experiences at the CFSC

Delivery and Pick-up of Child:

Children expect their parent or guardian to pick them up promptly after school. As an instructional site, our teachers have the responsibility of conducting daily staff meetings when the program ends. A late pick-up results in a fine of $1.00 per minute. If a child is present after closing time, emergency phone numbers will be called for others to pick up the child in the event you have not contacted us. If we are unable to contact an emergency person within thirty minutes of the scheduled closing time of 5:30 p.m., or you have not left a message at (818) 677-3131 (CFSC), we are required to notify the campus police. The campus police are then responsible for determination of whether or not they will keep the child or notify other agencies.

The parent/guardian or other authorized person is required to deliver the child to a qualified member of the CFSC at the beginning of the program, and an authorized individual must personally receive the child at the end of the class session.

The child may not leave the center without written permission from the parent or guardian.

Parking at the CFSC:

The driveway in front of the CFSC, at 18330 Halsted Street, is reserved for parents dropping off and/or picking up their children. Campus parking allows a thirty-minute grace period to do so. Parents wishing to observe for more than fifteen minutes must purchase a parking pass (currently $5.00) from a CSUN information booth (at Lindley and Nordhoff) and park in designated parking spaces.

Field Trips:

Parents will be notified, in advance, of all field trips, and are required to sign a consent form. Without a signature of the parent or legal guardian, we are not able to allow a child to leave the premises. Staff members may not transport children in their automobiles, so parents may be asked to volunteer to drive, at which time they will be asked to show proof of liability coverage on their vehicle. Parents are requested to leave a child's car seat if the child is younger than six years and weighs less than 60 pounds.

Calendar:

The CFSC follows the California State University, Northridge Campus Calendar, and observes all holidays such as Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Winter Break, Martin Luther King, Jr., Cesar Chavez, Spring Break, Memorial Day, Commencement Week, and the Fourth of July. During the regular fall and spring semesters the Half-Day Preschool Programs are fifteen weeks in length, and the Full Day Preschool and Kindergarten Programs are sixteen weeks in length. A modified Intercession Program is offered during the summer for Half-Day Preschool (enrollment is limited). Families in the Full Day Preschool and Kindergarten enroll their child for the full academic year. The typical academic year begins in late August and ends in late May. For your convenience, an academic calendar is provided with the enrollment packet.

Health and Safety

Immunizations:

All children must be in compliance with California's immunization laws and regulations, according to the California Department of Social Services (Title XXII, Section 101220.1) before entering the program. Please inform the office each time your child receives an immunization so that we can update our immunization records.

Nutrition:

We acknowledge the importance of good nutrition for young children's growth and development, and we strive to model appropriate food choices for snack and lunch. A professor, who is also a Registered Dietitian, from the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences is responsible for supervising Nutritional Science Interns who assist us with meeting these goals. During their first semester, the dietetic interns learn to plan appropriate lunches and purchase foods according to a budget. Second semester dietetic interns focus on nutrition education for CFSC staff, parents, and children. Children and staff typically eat "family style", where children are encouraged to pour beverages and serve themselves food, while conversing in a friendly, receptive atmosphere. Enrollment forms include a section for notification about food allergies and cultural preferences to guide the staff and dietetic interns as they plan meals. See "Birthdays" section for guidelines regarding food choices and celebrations.

Hygiene:

Children and staff are required to wash their hands before all snacks and meals, and before engaging in food preparation activities. Teachers remind children to wash their hands after toileting and after blowing their nose.

Illness:

Your child's health and comfort are important to us. In the event that your child becomes ill while at the CFSC, the child will be immediately isolated from the other children, and parents or authorized person(s) will be contacted and requested to pick up the child from school. For this reason, please be sure to keep all phone numbers in your child's file current. For the health and welfare of all of the children and adults at the center, children should not attend school when they are ill. Children should remain at home, or be sent home if he/she exhibits any of the following:

  • Fever over 100 degrees
  • Not "fever-free" for at least 24 hours
  • A sore throat which has not been examined nor treated
  • A productive cough
  • A contagious and/or infectious condition (viral infection, lice, conjunctivitis, impetigo, etc.) which has not been under treatment for at least 24 hours
  • Any obvious viral illness such as diarrhea, nausea, etc.
  • Any other condition which may be contagious to others, such as rashes, etc.

In case of prolonged illness, the child may re-enter at the discretion of the staff or upon a release from the child's physician.

If your child has been exposed to a communicable disease such as chicken pox or measles, you will be notified via the parent bulletin board. If your child is exposed to a communicable disease away from school, please notify the staff and office.

Accidents and Emergencies:

Children are sometimes subject to bumps or bruises at school. After comforting the child, the teacher will fill out an "Accident Report" following minor injuries, and place the informational note in your parent pouch.

In the case of a more severe accident, every attempt will be made to contact the parent(s)/guardian(s) first, and then authorized persons. If necessary, an ambulance or paramedic will also be called. Please keep emergency information updated.

Administration of Medication:

At times, a child may need to receive prescription or non-prescription medications at school. Written consent is required to administer any and all medications. Medications must be provided in their original containers, and should be clearly labeled with the name of the medication, the child's name, the time to be administered, and dosage, as prescribed by your child's physician. Medical Release Forms are located in the office or with your child's teacher, and must be handed directly to the Lead Teacher. Staff members will record the date and time of medication administration.

Fire Drills and Emergency Procedures:

The CFSC attempts to be prepared for any emergency. Emergency supplies are stored on the premises, and the staff is required to maintain current First-Aid and CPR training. Fire and earthquake drills are conducted monthly in compliance with California state regulations. The dates and times for each of these drills will be posted on the white parent board.

At the beginning of the academic year, each family will be asked to pay a minimal fee for earthquake supplies. These supplies are stored in an accessible location that includes a 72-hour supply of food, water, and supplies for each child.

In the event of a major disaster, the children will remain at a campus location deemed safe by the university administration. The CFSC is one of the first locations that the campus police are required to check in the event of such an emergency. Teachers are required to remain with all of the children until the last child is picked up, according to appropriate adult/child ratios. It is important to keep all emergency information updated.

Visitors:

All visitors must sign in at the Main Office. If necessary, a member of the staff will accompany visitors to the classroom or observation room.

For Your Information

Parent Involvement:

The CFSC believes that a positive partnership between home and school is the most beneficial environment for young children; therefore, parents are encouraged to become active participants in their child's school experiences. The Lead Teachers will inform parents of ways in which they can become involved. Parents are also encouraged to participate in, and assist with Parent Booster Club activities. Classroom participation may take many forms such as storytelling, sharing of special interests, chaperoning field trips, cooking activities. Additional opportunities for involvement include participation in parent discussion groups. Becoming familiar with the information in this Parent Handbook is a first step. Parent-Teacher conferences are scheduled twice per year in order to provide information on your child's progress in the classroom, with additional conferences scheduled at the request of the parent or the staff.

Parent Booster Club:

The purpose of the Parent Booster Club is to act as an auxiliary to the CFSC in order to lend support and assistance to the program through fundraising and organization of social events. All parents are welcome to become involved.

Staff Babysitting:

The staff is not permitted to provide babysitting services directly before or after a child has been at the CFSC. However, staff may be hired by a family for child care on weekends or at times other than immediately after the classroom session ends.

Observation Rooms:

The observation rooms are regularly used by university students to observe and record children's behavior, as well as by parents who have children enrolled in the program. Observers and parents are expected to maintain confidentiality, maintain Lead Teacher's directions, and treat children and families with sensitivity and respect. Parents are welcome to observe their children periodically. All observers must sign in and out in the Main Office. Please refrain from conversation or eating in the observation rooms. Young children are not permitted in the observation rooms. Please contact the Director if any concerns or questions should arise as a result of observing.

Classroom Rosters:

Each family will receive a list of names, addresses, and phone numbers of classmates. Please let the office know if you do not wish your name to be included on the classroom roster, or if information will be different than it appears on your information form.

Clothing for School:

Clothing worn by children to the CFSC should be comfortable, functional, and washable in order to permit maximum freedom with materials and equipment. Although children are encouraged to wear smocks for messy activities, clothing may still become soiled. All clothing, including shoes, should be manageable by the child, including snaps, buckles, or zippers. Velcro shoes are the most appropriate, and allow for independence in dressing and undressing. Children should not come to school in clothing that may be a safety risk. Clothing such as long fashion skirts, baggy or tight wear, jewelry, "fashion" shoes such as flip-flops, boots, and dress-up shoes with slippery soles inhibit safety while running and climbing and are not appropriate for young children. A complete change of weather appropriate clothing should be kept in the child's cubby, and should be checked periodically for fit.

Children in the Full Day Program and children who are learning to use the toilet should have two sets of clothing - particularly underwear and socks. Extra clothing that is worn home should be replaced the next day.

Discipline/Setting Limits:

Young children at the CFSC are in the process of learning how of how to get along in a group, and we make every effort to emphasize respectful treatment of each child's feelings and rights. Setting clear, consistent limits helps to define boundaries for young children, thereby assisting with the goals of learning to solve one's own problems and building a positive sense of self-esteem. Adults who are working with the children utilize several techniques that are based upon our philosophy of respect for self, respect for others, and respect for property. These strategies include the establishment of consistent routines, positive reinforcement, redirection, and the encouragement of dialogue.

Toilet Training:

Please do not intensify your child's toilet training before entering school. Your child need not be toilet trained prior to participation in the program. We ask that you send your child to school in clothing that he or she can take off and put on easily (elastic waist pants are best) in order to allow your child more autonomy in the learning process. A consultation with your child's Lead Teacher is recommended as your child begins school in order to develop a plan that works for everyone involved. Remember to keep a supply of diapers and diaper wipes at school, and two complete changes of clothing that you should check frequently.

Separation and Transitional Objects:

It is normal for some children to exhibit concern about separating from their parent. During the initial process of separation, parents can sit in a chair near the corner of the room, visible to their child. We do recommend, however, that you not shadow your child, but allow the teacher and staff to help acclimate him/her to what is happening in the classroom. At first, young children's concerns arise from the child's uncertainty about being reunited with the family. Therefore, it is important for parents to let the child know when he/she will be picked up and by whom. It is also important for parents to be on time for pick-up. After the initial adjustment period and successful separation, children's concerns are often a bid for attention and control. We recommend that parents be matter-of-fact and direct with their children.

If your child has a transitional object or "cuddly", please bring it to school and inform the Lead Teacher that it is in the child's cubby. Children are welcome to bring a transitional object such as a blanket or teddy bear; however, it is recommended that they remain in the child's cubby while at school.

Naptime:

According to regulations set forth by the California Department of Social Services (Title XXII, section 101230), "Activities and Napping":

  • "(b) All children shall be given an opportunity to nap or rest without distraction or disturbance from other activities at the center.
  • A napping space and a cot or mat shall be available for each child under the age of five.
  • Centers that serve children in half-day programs are not required to schedule napping periods or have napping equipment for such children.
  • No child shall be forced to stay awake or to stay in the napping area longer than the normal napping period."

At the CFSC, preschoolers nap after lunch on separate cots. The children are required to rest for a minimum of one hour, and thereafter are permitted to engage in quiet activities (i.e. books, puzzles). Children who are enrolled in kindergarten do not nap.

Toys and Non-Violence:

Our classrooms are full of toys and experiences for children while at school, and leaving personal toys at home eliminates conflict and competition, as well as the sorrow of lost or broken items. Please do not send toys with weapons or any other toys that relate to violence. On non-share days, children are asked to keep toys from home, at home. Children do not need to bring toys to the CFSC. Teachers will not be held responsible for the loss of personal articles.

Holiday Policies and Procedures:

Children and adults welcome holidays, celebrations, and special events into the curriculum. As our classrooms become more diverse, the celebrations should reflect that diversity.

When implemented appropriately and well, holidays can become an important and valuable part of the multicultural curriculum. But we ask that you please avoid bringing treats or presents during these holiday times.

We like to consider the source of holiday celebrations and focus on developmentally appropriate learning experiences each holiday might bring to the curriculum. We look to the seasons for inspiration, for example, each fall we have a Harvest Festival which includes everything from a pumpkin patch to a big pile of leaves for kids to jump into!

Birthdays Celebrations:

Birthdays are special. Our classrooms celebrate each of the children's birthdays in unique ways such as giving the child a birthday crown and song from the other children. It is not necessary for parents to provide anything. However, if you wish to do so, please adhere to the following National Health guidelines:

Please bring only packaged foods, whole fruits, or restaurant to-go food ("A" Rated restaurants preferred). We regret and are sorry to convey we cannnot accept homemade foods. If you will be bringing food, please notify your child's Lead Teacher at least one week prior to the event so your menu items can be included in the weekly planning. Please do not bring party bags or balloons to school. Distributing party invitations in parent pouches is permissible only if all children are invited. Otherwise, invitations must be mailed directly to the child's home (rosters will be provided at the beginning of the year).

Cubbies and Parent Pouches:

Each child will receive a cubby for his/her personal belongings. Parents should check cubbies daily for artwork, projects, or soiled clothing that should be taken home. Parents should also check their parent pouches each day for personal notes or school announcements.

White Board:

The white board is located on the wall adjacent to the entrance to the Main Office. Please check frequently for important information and dates for parents.