Parent Handbook
Haymount United Methodist Church Preschool 2026-2027
Welcome to the 2026–2027 School Year! Dear Parents and Guardians, Welcome to another exciting year at Haymount United Methodist Preschool! We are delighted to partner with you in the privilege of nurturing your children—truly one of God’s greatest gifts (Psalm 127:3). Each child entrusted to us is unique, precious, and filled with potential, and it is our joy and calling to guide them toward a deeper understanding of God’s love and their place in His Kingdom. At Haymount, we are committed to teaching the whole child— spiritually, emotionally, and academically. We strive to create a safe and loving environment where children feel secure to explore, to ask questions, and to make mistakes, knowing that mistakes are an important part of learning (Proverbs 22:6). Our goal is to help each child grow into a happy, well-rounded, confident, and eager learner, who experiences God’s love in all aspects of life. Our mission is to guide children toward an understanding of God’s love and their role in His Kingdom. Our vision is to provide joyful learning through play, using a biblically integrated curriculum that encourages curiosity, creativity, and growth in faith. We believe that children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and loved, and we are dedicated to nurturing each child’s spiritual, emotional, and intellectual development. As we embark on this school year together, we pray that all our families experience a year filled with joy, growth, and blessings. May your family grow closer to the Lord, to one another, and to our community. We are excited to see all that God has in store for us this year and feel privileged to walk alongside your children as they learn, play, and flourish. With warmest blessings, Laurie Ashley, Director Psalm 127:3 – “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” Proverbs 22:6 – “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Matthew 19:14 – “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
A Message From Pastor Allen Dear Parents, Imagine a jar with 936 marbles in it. Nine hundred thirty-six weeks for your child to grow from birth to their eighteenth birthday. 936 weeks of adventure for you as a parent. Haymount United Methodist Church knows you have only placed a few doxedn of the 936marvles into the jar of life with your child. we also know that placing your child with us implies great trust, a trust we embrace with a full heart. Our team strives to make our preschool a joyful, safe space filled with love and learning. We are glad we can come alongside your family in this season of life and assist you as your child grows into adulthood. In your time among us, we hope to help your child learn that God made and loves them and that Jesus can be a forever friend. We may also learn to make wise choices, trust God, and treat others the way we want to be treated. Our church family also provides additional opportunities for you and your family to connect in worship, study, and fun activities for all ages. We pray that your family will experience growth and learning as we place more marbles in the journey of 936 weeks of your child. Grace and Peace, Pastor Allen Bingham
Program Hours Preschool Hours: 9:00 AM- 12:00 PM Lunch Bunch (Optional): 12:00 PM-1:00 PM Preschool Office Hours: 7:45 AM- 1:45 PM Please do not drop off your child before 9:00 AM as teachers are preparing for the day. On-time arrival ensures your child can fully participate in activites.
Late Pick-Up Policy We have greatly simplified our late pick-up policy. A $1 per minute late fee will be assessed beginning at 12:05 PM or 1:05 PM. Please be sure to contact your child’s teacher if you are going to be late.
Arrival & Dismissal Always walk your child to/from class. Sign in and out each day. This includes older siblings who may walk in independently. If someone other than a parent will be picking up your child, please notify the teachers. The names of those authorized to pick up your child ar required on the enrollment form, as well a family code which could be used in the event of extreme emergency when no one on your pick up list is available.
Safety & Drills We practice fire, tornado, and safety drills regularly. Security is a top priority, and we strive to provide a safe, nurturing envirnoment at all times.
Parent Conduct Respectful communications is expected. Inappropriate behavior (e.g. verbal abuse, intimidation, or disrespect toward staff, students, or other families) may result in your child’s dismissal from the program.
HUMC Preschool Mission To guide children toward an understanding of God’s love and their place in His kingdom. To develop well rounded children who are happy, secure, confident and eager to learn.
HUMC Preschool Vision To be a Christian preschool which offers a sound developmental experience for children through interactive learning by incorporating biblically integrated curriculum. To provide for children in an atmosphere of love, acceptance, and affirmation.
HUMC Preschool Philosophy Haymount United Methodist Church Preschool follows a developmental learning philosophy that focuses on interactive learning experiences, character development, socialization, meaningful play, and creative art and musical experiences. We strive to provide a Christian envirnoment that nourishes spiritual growth and encourages a confidence and excitement for learning.
2026-2027 Preschool Board Members
Hannah Gray Becky Spade Ruthie Dent Kim Feldmeyer Sharon Lewis
Jamie Hurley Holly Pendergraft Glo Aaron Kristie Sims Ashley Hill
Laurie Ashley, HUMC Preschool Director Rachel Madsen, HUMC Children’s Ministry Director Allen Bingham, HUMC Lead Pastor Nicole Andre, Finance
Haymount Preschool Curriculum Our Curriculum is developmentally appropriate, faith-based, and designed to foster a love for learning in toddler through 4year-olds. We use weekly thematic units that include: A Bible verse and story Integrated music and movement Age-appropriate activities to promote creativity, confidence and curiosity. Children explore and grow thorugh interactive learning centers including: Art Blocks & manipulatives Dramatic play Music Science Language & writing Our focus includes development in: Social-emotional skills & self-esteem Language, literacy & pre-reading Number awareness & early math Fine & gross motor skills (including handwriting readiness)
Music & Chapel Each Class attends weekly Music and Chapel with our resource teacher. Children experience: Singing & rhythm Insturments & movement Worship through Bible stories and songs Weekly Chapel Each Thursday, the older students (2's-4's) attend a brief chapel with one of the Haymount United Methodist Church pastorla staff at 11:30. Our Thursday chapel services will be a “mini worship“ service including a call to worship, music, object lessons, opportunities to give a school-wide service project and a “sermon” (story) brought to the students by one of HUMC pastoral staff. Occasionally, chapel servicew will be cancelled due to scheduling issues.
Preschool Dress To support a safe and active learning environment, please follow these guidelines: Clothing & Footwear Dress your child in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes suitable for art, play, and outdoor activities Tennis shoes are highly encouraged-flip-flops, open -toed shoes and crocks are discouraged for saftety Choose clohting your child can manage independently. Elastic waistbands are best-avoid snaps, zippers, buckles, or ties if your child cannot operate them alone. While we will make every effort to send your child home clean and unstained, we cannot guarntee that as we go outside, do art work and generally play with things that can get messy at times. Please keep that in mind if you dress your child in precious or heirloom articles. Extra Clothes Keep a full change of clothes, including socks and underwear, in a labeled Ziplock bag in your child’s backpack for occasional accidents. Outdoor Play Children go outside daily, weather permitting. Please dress them accordingly.
Preschool Dress Potty training should be supported at home and at schoolcommunication with your child’s teacher is key. Children in training must wear pull-ups until fully trained. Children in the 4-year-old classes must be fully potty trained to attend. If frequent accidents occur, parents may be called ot pick up their child. Support for training children under age 2 is at the director’s discretion Thank you for helping us foster independence and comfort for all children!
Tuition Costs 2026-2027
Class
T/Th
M,W,F
M-F
Infant Room
$257
$362
$489
Toddler Class
$257
$347
$462
Twos
$257
$300
$394
Threes
$252
$284
$378
Fours
___
___
$378 (only option)
Additional Fees Registration Fee: $100 per child Registration Fee (for additonal children): $75 per child Supply Fee: $50 Lunch Bunch: $22 per day per child Lunch Bunch is an optional hour for lunch and socialization. Lunch bunch takes place from 12PM-1PM.
Tuition is Due by the 5th of each month Payments recieved after the due date will be charged a $25 late fee. If your check is returned or is unable to be processed there weill be a $35 bank fee charged. If your ACH is unable to be processed there will also be a $8 bank fee charged. Full tuition is required Sepetmber through May, whether your child is absent, or we are closed for holidays or inclement weather. We require a 2 week notice when withdrawing your child form Haymount UMC Preschool. You will be responsible for the full month tuition. Any acocount deliquent more than one month may result in your child’s dismissal from the program. A New ACH form is due every year. September tuition must be paid by cash or check-ACH will commence in October. Tuition is payed by cash, check or ACH. We do not accept cards. Checks may be placed in black box outside the Director’s office, but cash may not. Cash must be given directly to the Director or her designee and a receipt must be written. Please do not leave cash in the black box at any time. Checks should be made to HUMC Preschool and the memo line should include the child’s name and class.
Discipline Policy At Haymount United Methodist Church Preschool, we believe in guiding children with compassion, consistency, and care. Our approach to discipline is rooted in the teaching of Jesus: “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” Matthew 7:12 We use positive discipline strategies that nurture growth, responsibility, and mutual respect. Our goal is to support each child’s emotional, social, and spiritual development in a loving environment. We recognize that children are learning how to manage their emotions, behaviors and interactions. We also understand the difference between intentional misbehavior and behaviors that are developmentally appropriate for a child’s age. In all situations, staff members take the child’s individual developmental stafe into account when setting expectations and responding to behavior. Staff Strategies for Positive Guidance To create a supportive and respectful classroom environment, staff members may: Set clear, consistent and age-appropriate expectations Explicity teach and model appropriate behaviors Anticipate and prevent potential behavioral challenges Address inappropriate behavior with love, patience, and respect Use positive reinforcement to encourage and reinforce desired behaviors Maintain open communication with parents regarding behavioral concerns or progress Utilize brief time-outs, approximately one minute per year og age, to give children space to alm down and reflect, when developmentally appropriate Document significant behavior incidents, providing copies to both the parent and the director Refer the child to the Director for additonal support if needed This approach ensures the children are treated with dignity and are guided with consistency and compassion as they learn hos to navigate their world. Our discipline philosophy reflects our commitment to fostering a Chirst-centered environment where every child feels safe, loved, and supported
Behavior Guidance and Administrative Support In some situations, the Director may become involved to help support both the child and the classroom environment. Actions the Director may take include: Removing the child from the group setting temporarily Speaking privately with the child to help them understand the issue Meeting with the teacher and/or parents to discuss the concern Implementing additional strategies or supports, as deemed appropriate by the director Temporarily or permanently dismissing a child from the program, depending on the severity and frequency of the behavior Serious Behavioral Incidents IIn the case of severe behavioral concerns- such as physical harm to another child or staff member, destruction of property, or behavior deemed unsafe-the Director may take further action, including: Suspension from the program for one day, five days, or longer, at the Director’s discretion Dismissal from the program for the remainder of the semester of school year Suspension and Expulsion Policies Suspension: A conference with the Director, teacher, parent(s), and the child (when appropriate) is required before the child may return to the classroom. Expulsion: If a child is expelled for the remainder of of the year, they may treutn the following school year on a threeweek trial basis. At the end fo that period, a conference will be held with the teacher, parents, and director to assess the child’s progress and determine continued enrollement Refund and Fees: Tuition and Lunch Bunch fees are nonrefundable during periods of suspension. If a child is expelled, any fees already paid will not be refunded; however, no additioanl tuition will be due for the upcoming month. We appreciate your partnership in helping us create a loving, safe, and respectful environment for all children. Our goal is to work with families to fuide each child through their developmental journey with grace, patience, and understanding.
Biting Policy Biting is a common yet concerning behavior in early childhood, especially among toddlers. While it can be a form of communication at this age, it poses a safety risk to others. Our goal is to identify the cause of the behavior and guide children toward a safer, more appropriate ways to express themselves. We follow the guidelines below to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children in our care. Please note that for children ages 2 and up, biting will be considered a discipline issue and handled by our discipline policy, if appropriate for the child-at the director’s discretion. When Biting Occurs The child who was bitten will be comforted, and the bite will be cleaned and treated with first aid as needed. The child who bit will be calmly and firmly redirected, and the behavior addressed appropriately. Parents of both children will be notified; howerever names are never shared. An Incident Report will be completed and provided to both families. Staff will never use punitive or frightening techniques (ex. biting back, shaming, etc.) If Biting Continues The child may be shadowed by staff (if available) or parentsponsored adult to help prevent future incidents Staff will observe to determine triggers (ex. teething, frustration, communication) Teething toys and positive reinforcement may be used The Director will ensure teachers are equipped with appropriate strategies and support. A parent-teacher-director conference may be scheduled to create a behavior plan for home and school When Biting Becomes Excessive If the behavior persists despite interventions, parents may be asked to pick up the child for the day. Continued biting may result in a temporary suspension from the program. If, after returning, biting resumes and puts others at risk, the child may be withdrawn from enrollment. We are committed to working closely with families to support children’s developmental needs in a safe, loving environment.
Illness Policy Purpose The health and safety of our children, families, and staff is a priority. Because young children are especially vulnerable to illness, and our program serves infants through four-year-olds, we follow clear illness guidelines to reduce the spread of communicable disease while providing a caring, supportive environment. Families are expected to keep children home when they show signs of illness and to notify the program of diagnosed contagious conditions. When Children Must Stay Home Children must be kept home if they exhibit any of the following symptoms: Fever A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, taken by any method. Children must be fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication (Tylenol, Motrin, etc.) before returning. Vomiting and Diarrhea Vomiting: One or more episodes of vomiting (not related to gagging or reflux). Diarrhea: Two or more loose or watery stools in one day, or any stool that cannot be contained in a diaper or toilet. Children may return after being symptom-free for 24 hours without medication. Respiratory and Cold/Flu Symptoms Children should remain home for: Persistent cough (especially one that interferes with participation or breathing) Cold or flu symptoms, including body aches, chills, fatigue, headache, or fever Sore throat, especially when accompanied by fever or swollen glands Thick, cloudy, yellow, or green nasal discharge accompanied by other symptoms (fever, cough, lethargy)
Eye Conditions (Pink Eye / Conjunctivitis) Red or pink eye with drainage, crusting, swelling, or itching. Children may return after 24 hours of prescribed treatment or when cleared by a healthcare provider. Rashes and Skin Conditions Any new, unexplained rash, especially if accompanied by fever or behavior changes. Children may return once the rash is evaluated and cleared by a healthcare provider, or when no longer contagious. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) Children must stay home while they have: Fever Open or oozing sores Excessive drooling due to mouth sores Children may return once fever-free for 24 hours and well enough to participate, even if some sores remain dry and healing. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Children with RSV must remain home while they have: Fever Difficulty breathing Severe cough or wheezing Return is permitted when the child is fever-free for 24 hours and symptoms have significantly improved. Head Lice Children with live lice will be sent home. They may return after treatment has begun and no live lice are present. Nits may remain, but families are expected to continue treatment as recommended. Doctors notes are no longer required, but treatment must be ongoing and complete.
When We Will Call Families to Pick Up Children Families will be contacted for immediate pickup if a child develops any of the following while at school: Fever of 100.4°F or higher Vomiting (not related to gagging) or diarrhea Signs of contagious illness (pink eye, rash with fever, suspected HFMD) Persistent coughing, breathing difficulty, or lethargy Any symptom that prevents the child from participating comfortably in normal activities Children must be picked up promptly and will be supervised in a quiet, comfortable area until pickup. Medication Use Medication should not be used to mask symptoms in order for a child to attend school. Children who require medication to control fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or pain should remain home. Final Notes A doctor’s note may be required at the discretion of the program for return after certain illnesses. We reserve the right to adjust policies if any public health issues arise such as certain flus, COVID, MRSA, etc. Please notify the director if your child contracts any contagious disease Thank you for helping us maintain a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment for all children entrusted to our care. Every policy we have is to keep all of the children safe.
Allergy Action Plan
Parents Must: Inform staff of all known allergies Keep emergency medications and instructions updated Provide a signed Allergy Action Plan for severe allergies We can only administer allergy medication if it is on file and properly documented. For severe allergies, parents must train staff in correct use of medications and collaborate on a response plan. Haymount Preschool is not liable for allergic reactions resulting from insufficient communication. Other Health Needs Children with special medical or developmental needs are welcomed based on our staff’s ability to meet their individual requirements. We work closely with families to make informed, compassionate decisions regarding enrollment and support.
Snack Policy Snack time is a fun and social part of our day at Haymount Preschool. Parents take turns providing a healthy snack for the entire class. Your child’s teacher will contact you with your scheduled snack day. Snack Guidelines Snacks should be healthy and easy to serve. We prefer water or 100% fruit over sugary beverages. All snacks must follow any allergy-related restrictions. For example, if a child has a severe nut allergy, no nut products are allowed in the classroom. When it’s your turn, please pring enough for the entire class. If your child brings cupcakes for their birthday, we ask you to consider bringing cupcakes with white icing only-no colored icing, please, if possible. Allergies & Picky Eaters If your child has: Severe allergies or is an exceptionally picky eater You may provide individual snacks for your child daily. However, your family will still participate in the class snack rotation to support the group. We appreciate your help in keeping snack time safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for all!
Lunch Bunch Program Lunch Bunch is an optional, extended care program offered Monday-Friday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, staffed by Haymount Preschool teachers. If you select Monday as lunch bunch day, the $22 covers each Monday in that month. If you select all five days, your child will stay until 1:00 PM every day for an addtional $110. Key Details: Children bring their own lunch and drink from home There is no instructional time during this hour-just a relaxed time to eat, play, and wind down. Children may attend any number of days per week. How to Sign Up: You may sign up at Open House Once you select a day, we require a month’s notice to remove it as we may need time to adjust staffing This is not a drop-in program-advance registration is required for staffing purposes. Payment is due by the 5th of each month, along with tuition. Additional Notes: Please label your child’s lunchbox with their name. Fees are non-refundable, including missed days, as staffing is based on enrollment. Refer to the Tuition Facts & Figures section for current Lunch Bunch rates.
Safe Sleep Policy In compliance with North Carolina House Bill 152, Haymount Preschool follows all safe sleep guidelines for children under 12 months of age.
Inclement Weather Policy Haymount United Methodist Church follows the Cumberland County Schools Public Schools for weather-related closings and delays. Closings: If Cumberland County Schools is closed, Haymount Preschool will be closed. Delays: If Cumberland County Schools operate on a two-hour delay, HUMC will open at 10:00am. This is a change. Additional notes: There are no make-up days for weather related closures or delays. On delay days, the regular lunch bunch status will be observed. Those who are enrolled in lunch bunch will stay, as usual. Those who are not, should be picked up at 12:00 noon. Please follow the CCS closure notifications as we follow their call on closures or delays. Closures will also be announced on Class Dojo, our official means of communication at HUMC Preschool.
Parent/Teacher Organization Haymount United Methodist Preschool is proud to have an active Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) made up of parents, teacher, and staff. PTO Purpose Promote open communication among parents, staff, and administration Organize and oversee all preschoool fundraising efforts Support school events and enrichment activities All parents are automatic memebers of the PTO and are encouraged to participate in meetings, events, and volunteer opportunities. Your involvment helps enrich our preschool community-we’d love to have you join us!
Christian Education & Church Activites We warmly invite you to participate in the many opportunities offered through Haymount United Methodist Church to help children grow in their faith and love of Jesus Christ. Weekly Opportunities Sunday Worship: 9:00 AM - Contemporary Service 11:00 AM - Traditional Service Sunday School (for all ages) - 10:00 AM Wednesday Evening Fellowship 5:00 PM - Family Dinner Annual Events Easter Celebration Journey to the Manger- step back in time and walk through the night of Christ’s birth Trunk or Treat - A fun, safe, family Halloween Event Summer Programs Vacation Bible School (VBS) All children are welcome-come grow with us in faith and fellowship! Contact Rachel Madsen for information on these and other Children and Families programming at HUMC (910) 484-0181 Rachel.Madsen@haymountumc.com Be sure to check the church website and social media pages for dates, times, and venues for upcoming events!
Outdoor Play Weather Policy At our preschool, outdoor play is an important part of a child’s physical, social, and emotional development. We are committed to providing regular opportunities for outdoor play while ensuring the health and safety of all children. The following guidelines outline how weather conditions are considered when determining outdoor play. Temperature Guidelines Children may play outside when the air temperature is 32°F and above, provided they are dressed in appropriate coldweather clothing (coats, hats, gloves/mittens, and appropriate footwear). On sunny, calm days, short outdoor play periods of approximately 10–15 minutes may occur when temperatures are as low as 30°F. On overcast, windy, or damp days, outdoor play may be limited or cancelled even if the temperature is in the 30s, due to wind chill and increased risk of discomfort or illness. Wind chill (“feels like”) temperatures will always be considered when making outdoor play decisions. Director’s Discretion The Director will make the final decision regarding outdoor play each day. Decisions may be adjusted based on real-time conditions, including temperature changes, wind, cloud cover, ground conditions, and the overall safety and comfort of children. Clothing Expectations Families are responsible for sending children with weatherappropriate outdoor clothing each day. Children who are not adequately dressed for the weather may need to remain indoors for safety reasons.
Rain and Wet Conditions Outdoor play will not occur during active rainfall, thunderstorms, or severe weather. After rain, outdoor play may resume only if play areas are safe, free from standing water, and not excessively muddy or slippery. Light mist or drizzle may result in shortened or cancelled outdoor play at the Director’s discretion. When outdoor play is limited or cancelled, children will be provided with alternative indoor gross-motor activities. Extreme Heat & Humidity Outdoor play will be limited or cancelled during periods of extreme heat and/or high humidity to protect children from heat-related illness. Temperature, heat index ("feels like"), humidity levels, cloud cover, and access to shade will all be taken into consideration. On warm or humid days, outdoor play may be shortened, scheduled during cooler parts of the day, or moved indoors. Children must be dressed in weather-appropriate warmweather clothing (lightweight clothing and appropriate footwear). Water breaks will be provided, and close supervision will be maintained at all times. The Director will make the final decision regarding outdoor play during extreme heat or humidity based on current conditions and child safety. Snowfall Moments If it begins to snow during the school day, you can be sure we will do our level best to get your child outside to experience it, even if it’s just a magical minute or two. We reserve the right to let children step out to see the snow fall, catch a few flakes, and enjoy the wonder of the moment— because childhood memories matter. These brief snow experiences will always be closely supervised and guided by safety, weather conditions, and appropriate clothing. This policy is designed to strike a balance between the benefits of outdoor play and the safety and well-being of all children. We appreciate families’ support in ensuring children are dressed appropriately for daily weather conditions.