Parent Handbook

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.  We promote an active learning approach based upon developmentally appropriate inclusive practice and encourage children to explore and interact with their 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 Family Studies Center (CFSC), understands that young children learn through active involvement with a variety of materials.  We provide a safe, nurturing, and enriched environment which encourages a child to explore and experiment. We offer a problem-solving atmosphere where the process is more important then the product. The children are encouraged to question, to hypothesize, and to think. The daily routine allows for a variety of valuable learning experiences that include individual, small group, and large group activities with children and adults.

History:

The CFSC has a long and proud history as a laboratory school. Since our inception, we have provided opportunities for observation of children, practice teaching and research by college faculty and students. We have been located at our current site since 1972, as an instruction unit of the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences (formerly the Home Economics Department) at California State University, Northridge. The CFSC, is fondly known as "The Lab School.

Licensing and Accreditation:

The Child and Family Studies Center is licensed by the State of California Department of Social Services (Title XXII). The CFSC has been accredited since 1989.  The Family and Consumer Sciences Department is also a member of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS). All Lead Teachers have a minimum of a related B.A or B.S. degree and have had classes in early childhood education, child development, special education or education and meet the requirements set forth by the state of California. On a voluntary basis, early childhood programs may go through the process of a self-study every 5 years for accreditation through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) by demonstrating a commitment to provide a high-quality program for young children and their families. 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).

Code of Ethics:

The CFSC staff abides by the NAEYC Code of Ethics (2011) by advocating laws and regulations that enhance the quality of life for young children, supporting the rights of children to live and learn in environments that are responsive to their developmental needs; striving to improve competencies in providing for children's needs; and 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 only with the specific signed permission of the parent.

CFSC Staff:

Directors and Lead Teachers at the Child and Family Studies Center are highly qualified early childhood professionals with many years of education and experience. They are all part-time Faculty instructors, Staff, or Graduate assistants at the university and are dedicated to providing a high-quality, developmentally appropriate, inclusive curriculum for all children while training and evaluating university students.

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 separate 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, assist in the implementation of individual children's learning objectives, plan activities and modifications to accommodate individual needs, and 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 Adolescent Development, Special Education, and related fields. Students participate in the classroom under the close supervision and evaluation of the Lead Teachers. Training experiences include observation, participation, curriculum planning, and assessments. The more qualified students may apply for internships as student assistants. All students wear nametags and are required to enter and sign in and out through the main office.

AM Half-Day Preschool: (M-F, 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.)

We offer both Half-Day Preschool. Designed for children 2 years 6 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.

Extended Day Preschool (M-F, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.)

Full-Day Preschool: (M-F, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.)

This program, designed for children 2 years 6 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.

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 Morning 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 sessions 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 tuition 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)

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. University students rely on regular attendance in order to complete course requirements and because it is most beneficial for the child. it is essential that children attend school consistently unless they are ill, have a family emergency, or have another 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 an 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 determining 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 parking spaces in front of the CFSC, at 18330 Halsted Street, are reserved for parents dropping off and picking up their children. Campus parking allows a thirty-minute grace period to do this. Parents wishing to observe for more than fifteen minutes must purchase a parking pass (approximately %10.50) from a CSUN information booth (at Lindley and Nordhoff) and park in designated parking spaces only.

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 cannot 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 must leave a child's car seat in keeping with the current legal codes.

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.

Immunizations:

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

Nutrition:

Parents with children enrolled in the Full Day and Extended Day programs should pack a nutritious lunch for their child each day, plus a beverage (water).  Enrollment forms include a section on food allergies that act as a guide to our staff when planning meals.

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.) that 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:

Sometimes children get bumps and bruises.  After helping the child, a teacher will complete a minor accident report form describing the injury, and place the form in the parent pouches for your information. In the case of a more severe accident every attempt will be made to contact the parents/guardians first for a required prompt pick-up and then authorized (by parents) persons.  If necessary, an ambulance or paramedic will also be called.  Keep emergency information updated.

Administration of Medication:

At times, children may need to receive prescription or non-prescription medications at school.  Written consent is required to administer medication.  Medication must be in their original container.  Medication should clearly include the name of the medication, the child’s name, the time to be administered, and the dosage, as prescribed by your child’s physician.  Medical Forms are located in the office or check with your child’s teacher.  They 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 Child and Family Studies Center attempts to be prepared for any emergency.  Emergency supplies are stored on the premises and Lead Staff and Faculty are required to take refresher courses in first-aid and CPR.  Fire and earthquake drills are held in compliance with California state regulations, days and times may be posted on the parent white boards at each classroom communications center.

At the beginning of the academic year, each family will be required to pay a small fee for earthquake supplies.  These supplies are stored in a central location and include 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 CFS Center is one of the first locations campus police is required to check in such an emergency.  Teachers are required to remain with all children until the last child has been picked up according to appropriate ratios.  Therefore, it is important to keep all emergency information updated in case of such emergencies.

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.

Parent Involvement:

The CFS Center believes that a positive partnership between home and school is the most beneficial environment for young children, and parents are encouraged to be active participants in their child’s school experiences. Lead Teachers will inform parents of ways in which they can get involved.  Parents are also encouraged to participate in and assist with Parent Booster Club activities.  Participation may take many forms: storytelling, sharing of special interests, cultural traditions, on field trips, or cooking.  Additional opportunities for involvement include participation in parent discussion groups.  Becoming familiar with all items in this parent handbook is a first step.  Parent-Teacher conferences are scheduled twice a year.  Additional conferences will be scheduled at the request of either the parent or the staff.

Parent Booster Club:

The purpose of the Parent Booster Club is to act as an auxiliary to the CFS Center in order to lend support and assistance to the program of the school through fundraising and organizing 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 to babysit 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. Conversation or eating in the observation rooms should not take place. 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 may receive a list of names and E-mails of classmates upon request.  Please let the office know if you do not wish to be included on the roster, or if information will be different than it appears on your information forms

Clothing for School:

Clothing worn to the Child and Family Studies Center should be comfortable, functional, and washable so that maximum freedom with materials and equipment is obtained. Children willengage in messy activities; clothing may become soiled.  All clothing, including shoes, must be manageable by the child such as snaps, buckles, or zippers. Velcro shoes are the most appropriate and allow for more independence in dressing and undressing. Children should not come to school in clothing that may be a safety risk. Clothing such as very long skirts, baggy or tight clothes, jewelry, or “fashion” shoes such as flip flops, boots, and dress-up shoes with slippery soles, which inhibit safe running and climbing, are not safe or appropriate for children.

A complete change of weather appropriate clothing should be kept in the child’s cubby and should be checked periodically for fit.

Full Day program and children learning to use the toilet should have two sets of clothing, especially underwear and socks. Extra clothing that is worn home must be replaced the next day

Discipline/Setting Limits:

Young children are learning how to get along in a group and we emphasize respectful treatment of each child’s feelings and rights. Setting clear, consistent limits defines boundaries for young children thereby assisting in the goal of building positive self-esteem and learning to solve one’s own problems. Adults working with children use several techniques; including:

• Establishing routine
• Positive reinforcement
• Redirection
• Encouraging dialogue

They are based on our philosophy of respect for self, respect for others, and respect for property. 

Toilet Learning:

Please do not intensify your child’s toilet learning before entering school. Your child need not be independent in the bathroom to participate in our program.  However, staff will work with the child and family when developmentally appropriate. 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) to allow your child more autonomy in this 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/pull-ups and diaper wipes as needed at school and two (2) complete changes of clothing, which you should check frequently.

Separation and Transitional Objects:

It is typical for some children to exhibit concern about separating from the parent.  During the initial process of separation, parents should work with the teaching staff and may be able to sit on a chair near a 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 /or 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 tell the child when he/she will be picked up and by whom. It is also important for the parent to be on time for pick-up.  After the initial adjustment periods, successful separation, children’s concern is often a bid for attention and control.  We recommend that parents be very matter-or-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 (blanket, favorite teddy bear, etc.) to be kept in their cubby while at school. Toys must be left at home

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:

There are always questions about how holidays are celebrated at the Child and Family Studies Center.  They have evolved over the last 20 years to reflect the “best practices” criteria put forth by NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children).  Children and adults welcome holidays, celebrations, and special events into the curriculum.  As our classrooms become more diverse the celebrations, etc. should reflect that diversity. Unfortunately what often happens in the classroom is that it begins to mirror the “holiday craze” that has literally taken over our society.  This “holiday syndrome” eliminates many developmentally appropriate and more relevant concepts and learning experiences from the curriculum. Remember, holidays have no lasting meaning for children when they are a program’s only expression of culture.  But, when done appropriately and well, holidays can be an important and valuable part of the multicultural curriculum. Please do not bring in treats or presents during these holiday times.

Birthdays Celebrations:

Birthdays are special.  Each program will celebrate each child’s birthday.  It is not at all necessary for parents to provide anything, but if you wish to do so, please follow these guidelines:

• The staff needs to be notified at least a week prior so that it may be included in weekly planning.
• Only whole fruit of packaged items (with listed ingredients) or take-out food from restaurants in Northridge with a rating of A from the Department of Health may be brought to the CFS Center for sharing with other children in the classroom.
• Parents can provide a nutritious snack such as unfrosted cupcakes, muffins, fruit, and 100% frozen juice bars for a child’s birthday.
• Please no party bags, or balloons, etc.  Distributing party invitations in parent pouches is permissible only if all children are invited.  Otherwise invitations must be mailed directly to the child’s house (rosters are provided at the beginning of the year upon request).

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.