Family Handbook 2018-2019

15 Conferences There are two formal conference days each school year in the fall and spring semesters. During conferences, discussions will focus on reviewing the progress of each child using portfolio artifacts and other evidence. A written narrative about children’s development and learning will be shared and discussed during the conference. Parents will also be provided with the opportunity to address how well the program meets the specific needs of your child and family. In addition, any time a concern is present, teachers and parents may initiate a parent conference either in person or by phone. If an interpreter is needed for conferences, one will be provided whenever possible upon request. Confidentiality All information shared with and by parents is confidential. Information obtained through developmental screenings and/or assessments are confidential and are shared only with the child’s family during scheduled conferences or in a timely manner such that appropriate programming, guidance and support (as well as assistive services and referrals) can be implemented for the benefit of the child. Written consent will be obtained from parents before information is shared with other relevant providers, agencies or programs. Children’s records are kept in locked filing cabinets, accessible only to approved individuals. MSC complies with Nova Southeastern University’s policies for record retention, destruction and archiving. Dental Hygiene Toothbrushing at MSC is completely optional. If you would like your child to brush their teeth, please send an appropriate size toothbrush in a sanitary container in your child’s lunchbox. Toothbrushes will be returned home daily. While many children love toothpaste we will leave that to you at home. Gum cleaning for infants is also available if requested and if gum wipes are provided. If you have any questions please contact your child’s teacher for details. Discipline Our Early Learning Programs use a positive approach to discipline. We believe in protecting the rights and privileges of the children while fostering a nurturing and warm environment. We use techniques such as redirection and reinforcing of positive behaviors with encouragement. We do not endorse or permit any physical, verbal or emotional abuse of any kind, nor is food or playground time ever withheld from children. Dress Children’s play is their work! Remember they may get messy, so please dress them appropriately. For safety reasons, children should wear closed-toed shoes and socks. Water shoes must be worn during time spent in our fountain. Neither flip-flops nor “crocs” are appropriate for school activities. Developmental Screenings and Assessments In order to ensure that children are achieving specific developmental milestones and to inform