OFCC Policies
Philosophy
Ouray Family Childcare offers age-appropriate activities for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, designed to support
each child's development. I will lead various guided activities, in a relaxed and flexible manner, tailored to each child's
abilities, with a focus on positive guidance and teachable moments. These activities will spark creativity and
imagination, while fostering growth in a nurturing environment. Ouray Family Childcare nurtures the whole child
through meaningful relationships, safe spaces, and engaging experiences that encourage exploration and a yearning
for learning. We are a child-centered program that focuses on learning through play in a nurturing welcoming
environment. I am here to support our families and our children as they learn and grow.
§ Statement of Non-Discrimination
At Ouray Family Childcare, (OFCC) we believe every child and family deserves equal access to
education, regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, gender, age, ethnicity, religion,
disability, political beliefs, marital status, sexual orientation, or special needs. Everyone is welcome
at Ouray Family Childcare, this is a safe place for all families.
§ Policy revision statement
When any changes are made to these policies, you will be given a written notice and asked to sign the
new policy handbook.
Provider Qualifications
§ High school degree from McCallum High School in Austin, TX 2003.
§ BFA degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago 2010.
§ Completed trainings in early childhood development from Colorado Shines.
§ I have taken classes on the following topics: Expanding Quality in Infant Toddler Care and All Our Kin Trainings.
§ I have an up-to-date certification in CPR and Adult & Baby first aid.
§ 15+ years caring for children aged 0-8 years old.
§ I do the following community volunteer activities: Ridgway Indy Film Festival, PRIDE, and H.O.P.E West.
Hours of Operation
• Monday – Friday: 7am – 5:30pm
Other Business Hours
• The provider is willing to provide evening care after the day program ends at 5:30 PM.
• The evening rate is $50 per hour. Evening hours are available from 5:30pm – 7pm.
The provider may provide overnight care not to exceed 24 consecutive hours the following circumstances:
• A family emergency
• A birth or death in the client’s family
• A special occasion for the client
• The overnight rate varies per child/ren and per hours
Licensing and Liability Insurance
§ I am licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood and operate a family child care home in
compliance with the laws of the state of Colorado. A summary of the licensing requirements and family child care
regulations for my business is available upon request.
o You may see a copy of my license on the Parent Communication Board. License number 1786106.
o My license capacity is 6 Children: Ages 0-18 years (concentrating on ages 0 – 5yrs)
o My licensor’s name is Mindy Capuano and you may contact her at 720-392-8400
o I carry general business liability insurance for my child care business.
GENERAL POLICIES OF OFCC
The Rules of My Home
§ Please remove your shoes when you enter my home or the childcare facility.
§ Wash hands upon entry into OFCC
§ Latch outdoor gates when entering and exiting.
§ The stairs are locked with a gate during child care hours, and the children are not allowed upstairs.
§ Doors open at 7am, please do not arrive earlier than 7am.
Enrollment & Admissions
Enrollment
Upon interest in OFCC, the provider will provide a tour and interview with the child’s parent(s)/guardian(s) and
the child. OFCC wants to meet each child prior to being accepted to Ouray Family Childcare.
Meeting your child gives me an opportunity to meet you and your child, discuss your childcare needs and answer
any questions. It also gives your child an opportunity to explore the environment and become familiar with me.
Upon determination of enrollment, the admissions process will begin.
Admissions
Necessary paperwork and documentation will be provided to the onboarding family, and required paperwork will
be handed in prior to the first day of agreed upon care.
During this admissions meeting, providers and family will review required paperwork and complete a contract
together.
A contract must be completed and your registration fee of $100 will be paid to secure your child’s spot at Ouray
Family Childcare.
Your first tuition payment is due at this meeting, based upon your agreed upon hours of care and rates, set in the
contract.
Deposit
Fee of $200 to hold your child’s spot. This goes towards the last week(s) of care. A deposit will be collected to
hold your child’s spot if you are enrolling at a later date.
By your child’s first day of care all required paperwork, registration fee and tuition should be completed to admit
your child into care.
Any items above not handed in by the agreed upon date to being care does not waive cost of care missed during
this days. This will be addressed in the contract.
Tuition & Fees
§ Click here for Rates and fee Schedule
§ A copy of tuition and fees will be provided for your records after it has been signed by parents and the childcare
provider.
§ Changes in tuition rates will provided with two-weeks written notice.
§ All payments for tuition and fees will be based upon the contract signed an agreed upon by both provider and
family enrolling.
Provider unpaid Holidays, Vacations, and Absences
§ The childcare program will be closed on the following days each year:
• New Year’s Day (January 1)
• Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
• Independence Day (July 4th)
• Labor Day (1st Monday in September)
• Fall Break (October 24th – 27th)
• Thanksgiving Day (4th Thursday in November)
• Day after Thanksgiving (Black Friday)
• Christmas Eve (December 24)
• Christmas Day (December 25)
• New Year’s Eve (December 31ST)
Paid Holiday Policy
• If a holiday falls on a Sunday, the child care program will be closed the next day (Monday).
• Clients do have to pay the normal rate for holidays when the program is closed.
Provider Vacations
§ The provider will take two PAID personal days each calendar year.
§ The provider may take 2-3 week(s) of UNPAID vacation per calendar year during the summer months.
Provider Sick/Personal Days
§ The client will be reimbursed tuition for the day, for sick days taken by the provider when there is less than 24
hours’ notice of closure.
§ The provider will aim to provide a substitute for her sick / personal days / emergency days.
§ The client is responsible for arranging backup care for the provider’s sick / personal days / emergency days if the
provider is unable to provide backup care.
Advance Close Notice of Care
From time to time medical appointments, family engagements and other life events may impact the hours of
operation at OFCC. All advance closure notices that fall outside of the above dates, two-weeks written notice will
be provided to all families this closure impacts care.
Enrolled Family Vacations
§ The client may take up to two unpaid vacation days per calendar year, with written 2-weeks notice; additional
vacation days will be paid at the normal rate.
§ Client vacation days are offered on a 365 calendar year, not the contract anniversary.
§ Clients must give the provider two weeks’ notice of the dates of their vacation.
Enrolled Child Sick Days and Absences
§ The client must notify the provider by phone in advance (before the scheduled starting time) whenever a child
won’t be coming to care due to illness or any other reason.
§ Each child in my care is allowed two unpaid sick days per 365-calendar year. Any other absences are paid in
full.
OFCC PROGRAM POLICIES
Sign In/Sign Out DAILY
§ This is a mandatory source of record keeping. Your child must be signed in/out every day your child is in
attendance. Only persons listed on your registration paperwork will be permitted to pick up your child should you
be unable to do so. Each person authorized to pick up/drop off your child will receive a unique 4 digit code to use
to sign in/out on the Playground App or on the Attendance Sheet located at the Parent Board.
Persons Authorized to pick-up and drop-off your child requirements
§ You will provide me a list of authorized people to pick up your child from my program.
§ You will provide me with a photo of each person on this list or have us meet in person prior to picking
up/dropping off.
§ You are required to update this list annually.
§ You will notify me immediately of any changes in the name, address, or phone numbers of the people who are
authorized to remove a child from my care.
§ You will notify me in advance if an authorized person will be arriving at my program to drop off/pick up a child.
§ Any authorized person who arrives at my program to drop off or pick up a child must bring a picture ID if we have
not met before.
§ If there is a court order (such as a divorce settlement or restraining order) that limits the rights of one of the child’s
biological parents, you must give me a copy of that court order.
§ You must notify me by e-mail or in writing in advance if a child will be picked up later than the scheduled pickup
time, whether by you or anyone else. There will be a fee - See fee schedule for extended hours in.
Note to all persons picking up and dropping off children to OFCC
§ Transporting a child under the influence of alcohol or drugs or failing to use an appropriate car seat creates an unsafe
situation. When you transport your child to and from my program, you must comply with state law regarding
appropriate car seats and infant carriers. If you drop off a child at my program and have not transported the child
in an appropriate car seat or carrier or are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, If at any point staff
notice indicators that the person picking up the child is under the influence, I am obligated by rules and regulations to
call 911.
Drop Off Experience
§ Full day enrolled children must be dropped off by 9am – exceptions: drop in child, or enrolled for half days.
If there is a special circumstance, please let me know ahead of time if possible.
§ Preferred drop off window is between 7am – 9am. This allows us to stick to a routine and regular daily schedule
without disruption. Breakfast is served from ~ 7:30am – 8:30am.
§ Doors open at 7am, please do not arrive earlier than 7am.
§ Sign child IN at drop off via scanning the QR Code and Sign child OUT at pick up using the same QR Code,
located by the daycare entrance at the sliding glass door.
§ Upon arrival please assist your child with removing shoes, coats, etc. and guide them to put their belongings in
their cubby. Depending on age.
§ We wash child’s hands at drop off
§ Check in with OFCC staff about the child’s evening and start each drop off day.
Pick Up Experience
§ All children must be picked up and signed out by 5:30 pm
§ Preferred pick up window is between 4pm – 5:30pm. NOTE: Snacks are served between 3pm – 3:30pm.
§ There is a 5-minute grace period for late pickups, after which there will be a $1 per minute.
§ If you are running late, notify me as soon as possible, this does not exclude families from late fees.
Non-Pick Up note
If a child remains in care beyond 6pm and I have not been able to get in touch with any/all authorized pick up people,
I will need to contact authorities. Your child will be provided dinner and activities with our family and be cared for in
the home until the next steps are put into place.
Guests and Visitors
• We ask guests/visitors to arrange their visit with the director prior to their arrival. This allows the director to
adjust the daily schedule as needed to minimize class and activity interruptions.
• All guests and visitors must complete the “Guests and Visitors Sign In/Out Sheet”
• Parents(s)/guardian(s) are welcome to drop in and visit outside of naptime ~ 12pm – 3pm. Please notify me
of your plans to visit, before arrival.
OFCC SUPPLY LIST, PROGRAMMING & SCHEDULE FOR CHILDREN
Supplies for Cubby
§ Include 1-2 complete changes of clothes (more if potty training or an infant). Dirty clothes will be sent home
each day, please be sure to replace any missing items.
§ Winter Season: Please dress your child properly for the weather at all times. We typically go outside when the
temp is above 20 degrees unless it is bad weather due to freezing rain, snow or wind. Please label ALL winter
clothing, particularly mittens, snow pants and boots as so many items look similar. These items will remain at
OFCC while the child is enrolled in care.
§ Summer Season: Please dress your child properly for the weather at all times. We typically go outside multiple
times a day, unless it is bad weather due to thunderstorms, rain or wind. Please label ALL clothing, including
undies/socks. These items will remain at OFCC while the child is enrolled in care.
Other Supplies
Other supplies associated to each child’s daily care, we ask all items remain at OFCC while the child is enrolled.
Please have all items labeled with the child’s name:
• preferred sunscreen lotion
• preferred insect repellent
• diaper ointment
• disposable diapers
• cloth diapers + wet bag (for soiled cloth diapers)
• baby wipes
• baby bottles
• baby formula and baby food
• changes of clothes + weather appropriate clothes
• a pacifier, blanket, or other security item for naps
Daily supply
§ Please bring a backpack or diaper bag to go back and forth to school each day or week.
Toys from Home
§ I am not responsible for any toys that children bring from home and any toys that are brought from home may be
used by all the children.
§ I do not allow any toy “weapons” into Ouray Family Childcare program.
Activities/Curriculum:
• literacy and language development activities
• expressive and sensory activities
• health, safety, or nutrition projects
• puzzles, games, or manipulatives
• free play – child led
• dramatic play – imagination led
• outdoor adventures include climbing, running, yoga, jumping, balancing, playing house, catching and
throwing balls, riding on wheels, sand box, water table and mud time, riverside walks
• washing hands, brushing teeth, dressing self, cleaning up toys, taking care of their possessions
• lacing beads, writing, cutting and play sewing
• construction, sand box, and blocks
• circle time and social development during meal times
• music and dance – as much as possible
• puppet story time and reading
• circle time routines
• pre-selected short shows for special occasions
• individual quiet activities
• drawing pads and leapfrog pads
• painting, markers, coloring, drawing, play doh, glue, scissors, collage, molding clay, and self-portraits!!!
• counting, problem solving, simple addition and subtraction – in everything we do
Daily Schedule
o Breakfast
o Morning Check Ins
o Circle Time
o Integrated Play
o Snack
o Outdoor Adventures/Group Activities
o Indoor Free Play
o Lunch
o Wind Down/Reading
o Nap-time
o Calm Quiet Play
o Snack
o Guided Learning Activity
o Indoor/Outdoor Independent Play
Food and Nutrition
§ I will serve breakfast, lunch and healthy snacks, to the children. I will provide water, milk, and juice.
§ I am participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program; you must sign a form to participate and must
cooperate with any requests for information from my Food Program sponsor.
§ If your child has an allergy to any food or beverage, you must notify me in writing.
§ If your child requires a special diet you are responsible for providing a packed lunch and afternoon snack each
day. Make sure I am aware of ANY/ALL food allergies.
§ For an infant or toddler you must provide me with bottles / formula / breastmilk.
o All breast milk offered in a bottle and not consumed by the child will be discarded daily.
§ Copies of the food menus will be on the parent board / newsletter.
§ At mealtimes, I will offer the food to the children but will not require them to eat it. I will inform you if I notice any
change in your child’s eating habits or a lack of appetite.
§ Please do NOT send other food or drinks with your child.
§ This program is affiliated with the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program and serves well balanced meals
and snacks. All food preparation is handled in accordance with accepted safety practices. We use mealtime as a
perfect opportunity to socialize, practice manners, such as please and thank you, and sitting at the table without
getting up and down during the meal. Children learn about responsibility as they clean up their dishes and spills.
Meal Schedule
• Breakfast: 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
• Morning Snack: 10 AM
• Lunch: 11:45 AM - 12:45 PM
• Afternoon Snack: 3:30 PM
Infants
§ Infants are fed on cue of hunger such as opening the mouth or making suckling sounds unless the parent and
child’s primary care provider give written instructions otherwise. Feedings stop when the infant seems to be
satisfied or starts to fall asleep.
§ Solid foods will not be introduced prior to the child turning 6 months old without express written permission from
the parents and/or child’s pediatrician.
Naps and Quiet Time
§ There is a daily group nap or rest period between ~ 1 PM and 3 PM.
§ At nap-time, each child will have clean sheets and blankets.
§ Please bring a special blanket and a security item or lovie for naptime.
§ Toddlers will nap on mats on the floor in the center.
§ Pacifiers are allowed during naptimes.
§ Infants under the age of one will be laid down to sleep on their backs, to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant
Death Syndrome (SIDS).
§ Infants will take naps in regulation cribs throughout the day.
Clothing
§ You must leave an extra set of clothing for your child at my home that is appropriate for the season. If a child is
being toilet-trained, you will need to provide several sets of clothing each day. I will provide a plastic bag for
soiled clothes. For an infant or toddler you must provide me with several changes of clothing.
§ During the summer, you will bring a swimsuit, a towel, and preferred sunscreen as needed.
§ During the winter, you will bring a jacket, hat, mittens or gloves, a snowsuit or pants, and boots. If possible,
please leave a pair of snow pants at my home during the winter months.
§ All clothing left at my program must be labeled with your child’s name.
§ If your child requires a change of clothes and you have not left any clothing, I will use other clothing that I have
on hand and ask that you wash and return them.
Diapering
• Parents are responsible for providing their child’s diapers and wipes, as well as extra sets of clothing.
• In the case of cloth diapers, parents are required to provide a waterproof bag or container in which soiled
diapers will be placed. It must be removed from the school daily and cleaned and sanitized before returning.
• A sterilized surface will be used for changing. Disposable gloves are available for staff to use during
diaper changes. Staff and children must wash their hands before and after changing.
• Soiled clothes will be placed in a doggie bag and placed in the child’s cubby. Extra clothes will be provided if
necessary. Please wash and return them.
• We will work with parents to make a potty training plan when appropriate. Please let me know if you’d like a
handout on potty training.
Learning to Use the Toilet
I will help a child learn to use the toilet once you and I agree that the child is physically ready. It is important to follow a
consistent routine both at home and in my program. You will supply extra clothing and training pants while I am helping
your child learn to use the toilet.
§ I will use the following methods to help your child learn to use the toilet:
• giving the child incentives (stickers, etc.)
• bringing the child to the toilet instead of asking if the child has to go
• helping the child get excited about using the toilet by singing a potty song, cheering with excitement,
reading books and watching videos about learning to use the toilet
• allow children to observe other using the potty to show them how they do it!!!
§ I will use the following terms:
• urine will be called: pee/peepee
• a bowel movement will be called: poop/poopoo
Breastfeeding Friendly Home
We provide an atmosphere that welcomes breastfeeding families. Nursing mothers are always welcome to come to
the center to feed their baby. There is a separate space for nursing or pumping in our family's living room. Breast milk
can be stored in the main refrigerator. We will work with families to help facilitate feeding routines, and
communication is encouraged between family and caregivers to adapt to the infant’s needs. Formula and breast milk
will be stored, served, and discarded according to safety guidelines. For breastfed babies, backup bottles and breast
milk must be provided for the home's use. Expressed breast milk should be labeled with the infant’s name, the date
and time the milk was pumped. Breast milk is heated separately from other bottles in warm water or a bottle warmer,
water is discarded after use. The procedures of a child transitioning from breastfeeding to a bottle and/or cup, or from
a bottle to a cup varies from family to family. We will work with you, consistently encouraging the appropriate
transitions.
Birthday and Celebrations Days
§ Children’s birthdays are celebrated on the birthday or a day close to it.
§ You may pass out home birthday party invitations at my program.
§ I will celebrate the following holidays with the children: Valentines Day, St. Patrick’s Day,
Mothers/Fathers/Parents Day, 4th of July, Halloween, Dios de los Muertos, Thanksgiving, Hannukah and
Christmas.
§ I will celebrate the changing of the seasons with the children.
§ We will not exchange valentine cards on Valentine’s Day or gifts for birthdays. We will make valentines crafts to
take home and to share, as well as special birthday crafts.
Sunscreen
§ Sunscreen is highly recommended and should be applied by parents/guardians prior to coming to daycare.
Should you wish to have additional sunscreen applied during the day you must provide your own sunscreen in its
original container and labeled with the child’s name. In addition, you must give written permission for the
sunscreen to be applied on the Sunscreen Permission Form (within the enrollment form).
Media Policy
§ All television, movies, tablets and music in the childcare home will be age appropriate and in an educational
category. Children will have no more than 15 minutes of screen time (combined tablet and television) per day.
The only time(s) we use movies is on special occasions. We use music throughout our day whenever possible
Classical calming music is played during nap time. A signed consent form must be turned in prior to your child
using any of the mentioned media.
Transporting Children by Car
§ OFCC does not transport children by car.
Field Trips
§ I do on foot field trips: walking, biking, strolling, and hiking near the childcare home.
§ On every field trip I will carry a first aid kit and the emergency contact numbers for the parents of all the children.
I also have a field trip emergency plan.
§ Parents must sign the Field Trip Permission (on the enrollment form) to allow their child to go on off-site
adventures.
Transporting School-age Children
§ School-age children are not allowed to leave my program on their own; they must be picked up by a parent or
other authorized person.
§ You are responsible for picking up a school-age child from the childcare center due to illness.
§ I am willing to take the responsibility of accompanying your child to and from the nearest bus stop each day.
PROGRAM GUIDANCE POLICY
Social Skills
At Ouray Family Childcare, we focus on developing children's character, emotional regulation, and social skills.
Through activities like practicing kindness, sharing, taking turns, showing respect, and managing emotions, children
gain valuable life skills. We also encourage learning about the community through hands-on experiences such as
exploring nature, discovering animals, and gardening. Our behavior policy is designed to foster positive relationships,
emotional well-being, and a supportive environment. We guide children with care, respect, and understanding,
helping them grow into confident, empathetic individuals. Our aim is to create an inclusive space where children feel
valued, supported, and inspired to thrive.
Transitions
All transitions involve changes for children and families, and every transition presents opportunities and challenges.
Each family is unique and will experience transitions in their own way. Early childhood professionals can partner with
individual families to determine what works best for their child.
• The procedures of a child transitioning from breastfeeding to a bottle and/or cup, or from a bottle to a cup
varies from family to family. We will work with you, consistently encouraging the appropriate transitions.
Behavior Guidance
• Proactively address problem areas within the environment and prepare children for routines.
• Utilize a visual schedule to support understanding of daily activities.
• Provide clear warnings before transitions to prepare children for changes.
• Model language that promotes problem-solving and effective communication among children.
• Use strategies such as redirection, diversion, and distraction to help children navigate challenging situations.
• Work with an Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant to identify opportunities for enhancing positive
behaviors.
• If a child persists in problem behavior (hitting, biting, breaking toys, etc.), I will arrange a time to talk with the
parent/guardian and make a behavior guidance plan.
• Collaborate with an Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
• Ouray Family Childcare has a procedure for referrals of children with developmental, behavior and academic
concerns, parents may inquire at any time.
Termination Policy from Parent to Provider
§ Parental Termination of Contract 2 weeks written notice, on or before the first of the month, shall be required
by the parent to Ouray Family Childcare to terminate the childcare contract. Payment is due for the notice period
regardless of whether or not your child is brought to me for care during that time.
Termination of enrolled care and contract
From time to time, all best efforts are provided and the goodness of fit does not sustain to allow the child to be
enrolled in care. Some incidents or experiences may warrant an end in enrollment and contract with OFCC. OFCC
will provide the parent(s) with two weeks written notice if we are no longer able to care for your child. Termination
under this provision is at the sole discretion of Ouray Family Childcare. Payment is required whether the child
attends or not. Ouray Family Childcare retains the right to terminate childcare arrangements for the following reasons:
• Termination of contract and un-enroll child due to authorized pick-up person being under the influence of
drugs and alcohol
• Non-payment of care, exceeding 30 days of unpaid care
• Pattern of behavior that does not align with the polices listed in this family handbook: Rules of my home,
Pick up and Drop off policies, contract fees and rates, non-payment, pattern of guidance behavior
• that continue to remain unresolved.
• Failure to comply with the policies of Ouray Family Childcare
• Failure to comply with the signed contract
• Failure to complete or update required paperwork
• Destructive or hurtful behavior of the child that persists
• Failure to show up for 5 days in a row without any communication
Parent Communication
§ Playground and texting will be used to communicate with parents on a daily basis. Email and newsletters are
used to communicate updates, menus, and larger matters.
§ Please do not hesitate to contact me via phone or text.
§ We have Instagram and Facebook posts with pictures of what the children are doing in our program often.
(Permission for your child’s photo to be posted is your choice and you will need to fill out a the media release
section in the enrollment form. We understand each family has personal preferences regarding social media
and respect your decision about having your child’s pictures posted.
§ Communicate with families regularly about their child’s strengths and progress. Show respect and appreciation
for each family’s cultural practices and values. Share resources, events and community information to families.
Our Partnership Agreement
§ We agree to communicate regularly about the child’s physical, emotional, social, and intellectual growth.
§ You will keep me informed about any change in the child’s schedule, routine, or home environment. I will do the
same for any changes in the child care business that affect the child.
§ You will notify me about any allergies or other health issues that the child is experiencing.
§ You agree to participate in an annual evaluation of my child care program.
§ You agree to follow the policies of my child care program.
Privacy Policy
§ I will do all that I can to protect your family’s privacy and will abide by the state privacy law. I will keep all records
and information about your child and your family private and confidential. I also ask that you respect the privacy
of my family by not sharing any information you learn about my family without my written permission.
§ You may contact me during the office hours on Fridays 12pm-5pm. You can also schedule and book a time to meet
on Calendly. I will share the link in and post updates on Playground.
§ If there is an emergency, contagious illness in your home or urgent matter you need to discuss, you may contact me
outside of business hours. I will respond within 24 hours.
Verification of Legal Custody
§ In cases of court appointed custody Ouray Family Childcare must have a copy of the court order recognizing the
parent who has legal custody of the child as well as any visitation schedules. Without a court order Ouray Family
Childcare has no choice except to release the child to his/her parents.
MEDICAL POLICIES & DICLOSCURES
Illness, Health and Safety Policies
• No child will be released to any person not listed on the child’s enrollment form without prior approval for the
child’s parents.
• When someone other than normal pick up people comes to pick up a child, prior permission from the parent
is required. The child may identify familiar adults or ID will be required for unfamiliar adults.
• The provider will notify the parent/guardian by phone and text if a child has an illness, accident, and/or injury
or other emergencies while in our care.
• The provider will notify the parents/guardians by phone and text for any child who has been separated from
the group outside of supervision of staff.
• Playground and classroom equipment is cleaned and inspected regularly.
• Children and staff use proper hand washing procedures before and after each meal, toileting, diapering,
etc.
• The provider will regularly check for recalls and identify recalled toys, equipment, furnishings and food. We
will then remove the recalled items from our center by recycling or throwing away.
• Child records are kept up to date and are located where all staff members can quickly access in case of an
emergency.
• We are a family of nonsmokers and no smoking is permitted in any children’s areas including the classroom
or playground.
• Monthly drills are held at various times of the day using different exits. Fire extinguishers and wired/battery
fire alarms are installed and inspected regularly.
• Carbon Monoxide detectors are in the sleeping area.
• State licensing inspector visits the premises each year. This is an unannounced visit. Additional
unannounced visits by food program inspectors take place 4 times a year.
• Staff are mandated reporters of suspicion of child abuse or neglect.
How Sick Is To Sick
§ If your child becomes ill during the day I will call the parent/guardian to pick the child up immediately, within a 2
hour window. I will isolate the child from the other children as best I can during this time.
§ If your child becomes ill at home, you are required to notify me as soon as possible. A child will not be allowed to
return to my program until he or she has been symptom-free for a full 24 hours.
§ I will not send a child home who has a common cold, unless accompanied by a fever or other symptoms.
§ I will notify you of any illnesses that your child is exposed to in my home.
§ If you repeatedly bring an obviously ill child to my program, and/or do not comply with the illness policy, it may be
grounds for ending our contract.
§ If your child becomes ill and I am unable to reach you, I will then try to contact your authorized emergency
backup person to pick up the child asap.
§ If a case of head lice is found in my program, I will notify all my clients and everyone in my home will be checked.
Children must be treated and be free of nits before they will be allowed to return to care.
Children with Special Needs
§ You must provide me with written instructions if your child requires special therapy, an individualized program of
instruction, or behavior guidance. These instructions do need to be prepared by a physician or therapist.
§ I have experience in caring for children with the following special needs:
• a medical monitor
• physical challenges
• allergies
• asthma
Administering Medication
§ If you would like me to administer medicine to your child, you must sign a separate written authorization for each
prescription. The medicine must be in its original container, labeled with the child’s name and the instructions for
administering it. (You may ask the pharmacist to split each prescription into two containers, one for me and one
for you, each with a full label and instructions.)
§ I require a signed release from a doctor before I will dispense prescription medication to the children.
§ I require written authorization from the parent/guardian before dispensing nonprescription medicine, such as
Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc.
§ I require written consent to administer sunscreen, lotions, insect repellents, and diapering products.
§ I will document all medication that I dispense to the children in my files.
Medical Emergencies
• Authorization for medical treatment form must be completed and signed by a parent and be kept on file for each
child enrolled in our program. Our emergency medical facility is typically Montrose Regional Health Center unless
another facility is dictated by your insurance carrier, you, or the severity of the emergency.
• In case of an emergency, we will make every effort to contact the parent immediately. Children requiring emergency
treatment may be transported by EMS for injuries requiring immediate treatment. Staff are trained in CPR and First
Aid. Parents agree to assume any and all financial responsibility for the ambulance, response team, and medical
treatment for their children.
Immunizations
• Health admission information, including health care plans, chronic medical conditions, allergies, and
immunization history, shall be provided to the family child care provider prior to the first day the child attends
the family child care home.
• Ouray Family Childcare accepts children who are fully immunized by CDPHE, the provider has the right to
refuse to admit a child if a statement from a health care provider is not submitted upon admission.
• As a Family Childcare Home, Ouray Family Childcare has the right to set policies to fit program needs. We
accept children who participate in regular immunizations, no exceptions.
• Immunization records are to be updated based on enrollment anniversary.
RECORD KEEPING POLICY
Records
§ State Law requires that I keep up-to-date information on all children in my care. The registration packet must
be completed and returned prior to your child’s first day of care. The health evaluation must be completed by
your doctor and returned no later than two weeks after enrollment. Ouray Family Childcare encourages all
families to obtain medical insurance for their child. A copy of your child’s medical insurance card is required in
your child’s registration paperwork. It is your responsibility to inform me of any changes in your child’s
paperwork. This includes phone numbers (work, home, cell) and/or addresses (work or home). Also, any
medical insurance changes must be given to me. These records are kept confidential and are updated annually.
My Records for Your Child
§ I will keep the following records for your child; you are responsible for updating these records immediately when
any of this information changes:
• your emergency contact information, including the name of a backup person in case I am unable to
reach you, and the phone numbers of the child’s primary doctor
• a list of everyone who is authorized to drop off and pick up the child
• a signed and completed enrollment form
• any special care or health requirements for your child and updated health forms
• a signed consent form to obtain emergency medical care
EMERGENCY POLICIES
Emergency Policy
A dated, written authorization for emergency medical care signed and updated annually by the parent(s) or guardian(s).
The authorization must be notarized if required by the local hospital, clinic, or emergency health care facility.
§ You must provide me with the names and phone numbers of at least one other person to call if I cannot reach
you in an emergency.
§ I post all emergency contact phone numbers near my telephone and bring them with me on all trips away from
my home.
§ If your child is involved in a serious or life-threatening emergency, I will call 911 and get immediate medical care,
and I will call you as soon as possible.
§ If your child is involved in an emergency that is not serious or life-threatening, I will call you as soon as possible.
§ I am required to file an injury report for any child care accident that requires treatment by a physician or
hospitalization to the Colorado Department of Early Childhood Division of Early Learning Licensing and
Administration within 24 hours.
§ I follow the fire safety rules and state laws regarding smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
§ I teach the children that if there is ever a fire in the house, they should evacuated the premises, following the
evacuation plan.
§ In an emergency situation that does not allow us to return to the home, children will be taken to an alternate safe
location here in Ouray and parents will be updated via text, or phone call as soon as it is safe to do so.
§ A backup caregiver who can care for the children will be brought in, in case I have a personal emergency.
§ When transporting the children I will carry a travel first aid kit with a list of emergency contacts.
Emergency Procedures
Fire In the event of a fire the children are instructed (fire drill) on a monthly basis and will be taught to meet at a “safety
area''. The children will then be accounted for and parents/guardians will be contacted as soon as possible.
Flood In the event of a flood, the children and staff will seek higher ground and parents will be contacted as soon as
possible.
Tornado In the event of a tornado alert, the children will be seated on the floor next to an interior wall away from all
windows and all lights will be turned off. Tornado drills will happen monthly during “tornado season”.
Earthquake In the event of an earthquake the children will be instructed to get under the table in a fetal position
covering their neck and head with their arms.
Gas Leak In the case of a gas leak, we will exit the home as quickly as possible without using the phone and without
turning off lights to avoid causing sparks. We will then go to the “safety area” and call for help. Parents will be contacted
as soon as possible. Note: We do not have gas in my home.
Blizzards/Power Outages In the event of a blizzard or power outage, my home is equipped with lots of blankets, first
aid equipment, non-perishable food, flashlights, and bottled water. Your children will be kept safe and warm until you are
able to pick them up.
Lockdown In the event of an unsafe situation such as the need for a lockdown, my phone is able to receive reverse 911
calls and we would immediately lock all the doors and windows. We will remain inside in a secure space until the threat
is cleared.
Reverse Evacuation In the event we are outside when an unsafe situation arises, we will implement a reverse
evacuation by finding the nearest secure location inside a structure and remain there until the threat is over.
Adverse Weather This home will be open unless the public school district closes for the day. If the home closes
payment is still expected for the days closed. In the event that the weather turns bad during the day, please come as
soon as it is safely possible. Your child will be well cared for until you are able to arrive.
Active Shooter All necessary means will be taken to remove the children from the active scene and evacuation or
lockdown will be implemented. All doors will be locked as we move to a place where we can safely evacuate or
barricade ourselves.
Children with Disabilities Evacuating children with disabilities will be assessed on a case by case basis. However, they
will always be partnered with an older student or the teacher to ensure safe evacuation. They will have accommodations
during the evacuation drills that allow them to be equally prepared for all types of evaluations.
Reunification In the case of an emergency that allows us to evacuate the home but remain on the premises, children
will meet at the trailhead next to the home. In the case where we must leave the premises, children will be transported to
Estrella Piatt’s home at 192 Namichi Way Ouray, CO, 81427 and parents will immediately be notified.
Security The main goal of security in the child care setting is to protect the children and the provider. In most cases, I
am the only adult with the children. In society today, there are those who prey on others and for this reason, Child Care
Providers can keep their doors locked to keep predators out and the children in, for their own safety. Our facility has an
outdoor camera as well as door sensors that will set off an alarm if opened unexpectedly.
Water Hazards - There is a river adjacent to the child care home off of the trailhead. Active supervision and all safety
precautions are taken.
Pets - I do not have pets.
OTHER POLICIES
Child Abuse/Neglect
• As a professional childcare provider I am required by law to report any signs of neglect or abuse of the
children in my care. Failure to report such signs could cause me to be fined and/or jailed. Children’s
Protective Services and the Police Department will be notified when it appears that a child is being
physically, sexually or emotionally abused, neglected or exploited.
• At the same time, if you believe that your child has been abused while in child care, you should seek
immediate assistance from your county department of social services or call 1-844-CO-4-KIDS. The
telephone number to report child abuse in your county is listed below:
Montrose County Social Services
1845 South Townsend
Montrose, CO 81401
970-252-5000
Filing a complaint
telephone number and mailing address. Mail written complaints to:
To make a complaint, call 303-866-5958 or write and mail a description of the complaint including name,
Complaint Intake, Division of Early Care and Learning
Colorado Office of Early Childhood
1575 Sherman Street, 1st Floor
Denver, CO 80203
• The Rules and Regulations for Family Child Care Homes can be viewed on the Colorado Department of
Human Services website: www.cdhs.state.co.us/childcare or www.sos.state.co.us - You may also review
provider’s files at the Division of Child Care Website.
I Am a Mandated Reporter
§ I am a state-mandated reporter and am required to report any suspected cases of physical or sexual abuse or
neglect.
§ If I have reason to believe that your child has been abused or neglected, I will report the situation to my licensor
and to the local child protection office.
§ To report a suspected case of child abuse or neglect, you can call the Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline
at: 844-CO-4-Kids
© 2025 by Melissa McChristian at Ouray Family Childcare 14Parent Resources:
§ Child Find: 970-254-5405 - Free developmental screenings for children ages birth to five – including vision, hearing
and speech - www.childfindidea.org
§ Early Intervention (EI): 833-733-3734 – Free child developmental and growth evaluation.
§ Child Health Insurance CHP+ @ 970-596-4764 - www.CHPplus.org
§ Early Childhood Mental Health @ The Center for Mental Health: 970-964-2121
§ Early Childhood Resources @ Bright Futures for Children: 970-728-5613 @ www.brightfuturesforchildren.org
§ Ouray County Sheriff: 970-325-7272
§ Ouray County Social Services: 970-626-2299
§ Ouray Fire Department: 970-325-7069
§ Ouray Police Department: 970-325-7068
§ Montrose Regional Health Hospital: 970-249-2211
§ Pediatric Associates: 970-249-2421
§ Poison Control: 800-222-1222
§ State Subsidy: We encourage families to apply if they feel they may be eligible. More information is included
with your enrollment package. Both parents must work or attend school to be eligible in two parent households.
Single parents must also work or attend school. It can cut your childcare cost dramatically as the amount you pay
is based on your income even for full time care. This is NOT only for low income families. It is worth your time to
apply and I’d be glad to help in any way I can.
Ouray County Department of Human Services
Phone: 970.626.2299
Address:
177 Sherman St. Unit 107
Ridgway, CO 81432