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LCCAA HEAD START PARENT HANDBOOK 2026-2027

Every child grows stronger with the support of family, school, and community.

LCCAA MISSION STATEMENT

“To Serve and Empower Lorain County Residents in Need”

“To Provide Comprehensive, HighQuality Education and Support Services to Empower Children and Families to Excel in Life” 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS GENERAL HEAD START INFORMATION 3 Welcome Letter 4 Head Start Sites/ Program Options 5 Enrollment Requirements 6 Center Parent Information 7 Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) Information 8 Attendance/Tardy Procedure 9-10 Arrival and Departure Procedure 11 School Closures and Delays 11 Parent Code of Conduct EDUCATIONAL SERVICES 13 Parent/Teacher Communication 14-15 Curriculum 15 Learning Environment 16-19 Daily Routines 20 Home-Based Learning 21 Transition Policy and Implementation Plan 22 Guidance and Management Policy 23 Safe Outdoor Play 24 Emergency Plans 25 Emergency Evacuation Sites SPECIAL SERVICES 27 Disabilities and Mental Health FAMILY SERVICES 29 Philosophy and Objectives 30 Family Service Assistants and Home Visitors 30 Parent Curriculum 30 Confidentiality 30 Picture Taking and Social Media 30 Abuse and Neglect Policy 31 Complaint Procedure 32-33 Participation and Volunteering HEALTH AND NUTRITION SERVICES 35-36 Physicals/ Dentals 36-37 Illness Management 38-39 Health Screenings 40-41 Nutrition 42 Screen Time Policy 43-45 USDA /CACFP Information

Dear Head Start Families, Welcome to the 2026–2027 Head Start School Year! We are excited to welcome you and your child to our Head Start family. Our program is dedicated to providing a nurturing, supportive, and enriching environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Families are our most important partners, and we look forward to working together to make this a successful and rewarding year for every child. This year's theme is "Progress Over Perfection: Celebrate the Small Wins." At Head Start, we recognize that growth happens one step at a time. Every new skill learned, every challenge overcome, and every milestone reached deserves to be celebrated. Whether a child learns to write their name, shares with a friend, tries a new food, or gains confidence in the classroom, these small victories build the foundation for lifelong success. By focusing on progress rather than perfection, we encourage children to develop resilience, confidence, and a love of learning. We encourage you to stay connected and involved throughout the year. Here are a few ways you can engage with our program: · Attend parent-teacher conferences and family events. · Join the Parent Committee or Policy Council and help shape program decisions. · Read, talk, and play with your child every day to support learning at home. · Communicate regularly with Teachers and Family Service Assistants regarding your child's progress and any questions or concerns. · Celebrate your child's accomplishments, big and small and encourage them to keep trying, learning, and growing. Together, we can create a positive and supportive learning experience where every child feels valued, capable, and successful. We look forward to celebrating each step of your child's journey and partnering with you throughout the year. Thank you for choosing Head Start. Here is to a wonderful 2026–2027 school year filled with growth, achievement, and many small wins worth celebrating! Sincerely, Stefanie Drew Head Start Director

Head Start Sites Central Plaza 1949 Broadway Ave. Lorain, Ohio 44052 (440) 204-3100 Site Administrator: Sharon Harmon Email: sharmon@lccaa.net

Elyria- Griswold 631 Griswold Rd. Elyria, Ohio 44035 (440) 323-1737 Site Administrator: Delilah Jones Email: djones@lccaa.net

South Elyria 107 OberlinRd. Elyria, Ohio 44035 (440) 220-8301 Site Administrator: Stephanie Ekers Email: sekers@lccaa.net

Firelands 10643 Vermilion Rd. Oberlin, Ohio 44074 (440) 965-6130 Site Admin: Sabah Ajeel-Jaber Email: sajeeljaber@lccaa.net

Hopkins Locke Head Start 1050 Reid Avenue Lorain, Ohio 44052 (440) 246-0480 Site Administrator: Alicia Risner Email: arisner@lccaa.net

Lagrange 12079 Lagrange Rd. Lagrange, Ohio 44050 (440) 324-3175 Site Administrator: Kara Goodwin Email: kgoodwin@lccaa.net

Wellington 305 Union Street Wellington, Ohio 44090 (440) 647-7440 Site Administrator: Kara Goodwin Email: kgoodwin@lccaa.net

Collaborations Horizon Educational Centers Little Lighthouse Learning Center Collaborative Administrator: Sabah Ajeel-Jaber Email: sajeeljaber@lccaa.net

Program Options Head Start preschool is for 3–5-year-olds 5-Day (Part Year) 4-Day (Part Year) Preschool Home-Based Program (Part Year) Days and Hours of Operation Centers are in operation Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. LaGrange is in operation Monday-Friday 8:00-4:30 Wellington and Firelands are in operation Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Hours are subject to change based on the needs of families and children.

Head Start Enrollment Requirements

Thank you for your interest in the Head Start preschool program. The Head Start registration packet must be completed to have your child enrolled for this year’s program. Applications are complete when the following have been submitted: ● Child’s Birth Certificate or Proof of Birth ● Child’s Immunization Record ● Child’s Social Security Card ● Parent’s Photo Identification ● Income Verification (Income Tax Forms, W-2, Current Pay Stubs, TANF printout of cash assistance or SNAP, etc.) ● Names, Addresses, and Phone Numbers of at least 3 Emergency Contact people ● Physical and Dental Appointment Dates or completed exams ● Child's Health and Dental Insurance Card ● Custody Papers, if applicable ● Department of Children & Youth (DCY) forms must be completed before your child’s first day of school.

Head Start Orientation is required before a child can start school. Please contact your Family Service Assistant if you have any questions about your enrollment forms or required documents. Head Start is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged property.

Quality Early Childhood Experiences Matter!

LCCAA wants to ensure that all children have high-quality early childhood experiences. Therefore, all LCCAA Head Start sites have the highest Step Up to Quality rating. This gold rating means you are enrolling your child in a learning and development program with level of quality that exceeds Ohio’s childcare licensing standards.

High-quality learning and development programs are important because early experiences last a lifetime. Your child has approximately 1,892 days from the time he or she is born until kindergarten. What happens on this journey lies the foundation for success in school and life. A Step Up to Quality gold rating means your child is in a program that has demonstrated the highest level of quality. Below are some of the ways a program can provide increased quality at the five-star level: ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

There are more staff members per child. The administrator and teachers have higher educational qualifications. The administrator and teachers complete more than 20 hours of specialized training every two years. Teachers develop lesson plans that support each child’s growth. Program staff complete assessments to evaluate and improve learning experiences. Families and the community are valued. The program supports and values employees.

Supervision / Staff / Child Ratios and Grouping Staff will supervise children at all times and will meet the staff/child ratio for the center’s licensing capacity. The Age of Children

Staff/Child Ratio

Maximum Group Size

3 Years

*1 to 12 / 1 to 10 (SUTQ)

24 / 20 (SUTQ)

4 -5 Years

*1 to 14 / 1 to 10 (SUTQ)

28 / 20 (SUTQ)

ratio of childcare staff to children present shall be: *LCCAA Head Start uses the Step Up to Quality (SUTQ) recommended ratio of 1:10 or 2:20

● ●

When age groups are combined, the age of the youngest child will determine the staff/child ratio. Staff whose duties interfere with the supervision of children will not be counted in the staff/child ratio. 7

LICENSING STATEMENT Our centers are licensed by the State of Ohio. DCY issues each center for a license that is posted for review. The laws and rules governing the center are available for review upon request. The center’s licensing report is available upon request from the department. DCY’s toll free number may be used to report a suspected licensing violation by the center. NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY It is unlawful for the center to discriminate in the enrollment of children based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

ATTENDANCE / TARDY PROCEDURE 1. Parents are encouraged to send their child to school every day unless the child is ill. 2. Parents are asked to notify the center of a child’s tardiness or absence within one (1) hour of the start of the program. 3. Staff may call, email, or message within 1 hour of the start of class to indicate that the child is not in attendance. If a child arrives from another program and does not arrive at the center at the expected time, the parents/program will be immediately contacted. 4. Family Service Assistants will utilize a variety of strategies to contact the family about student absences. 5. A child will automatically be dropped from the program if there have been 30 consecutive absent days without communication from the parent. Depending on the reasons for absence, the child may be added to the waitlist or referred to another program option.

ARRIVAL PROCEDURE 1. Arrival procedures will vary by site. Children will either be signed in by staff at the car or at the door (walkers), or parents will accompany children to their classroom and sign in. 2. Please familiarize yourself with the drop-off/pick-up procedures at your site, particularly the designated areas for parking if applicable. 3. For everyone’s safety, cars must be turned off as parents remove their children from their car seats and escort them to the teacher. 4. This procedure is subject to change during the school year. 5. Please be mindful to limit conversation with teachers to ensure child safety and ratio. Parents are asked to schedule a time to meet, if needed.

DEPARTURE PROCEDURE / RELEASE POLICY CENTER DEPARTURE PROCEDURE 1. Our center policy is that we will not release a child from the center to any person other than persons listed on the registration form pick-up list. 2. Staff will write down the time each child is picked up. 3. Pick-up persons must be thirteen years or older, present a photo ID when picking up a child, and make the teacher aware of the child’s departure. 4. Children will only be released to persons listed on the registration forms. Parent/Guardian may make changes to pick-up people in writing on a Change of Status form. Phone calls will not be accepted! 5. Please be mindful to limit conversation with teachers to ensure child safety and ratio. Parents are asked to schedule a time to meet, if needed.

Unauthorized Person/ No One to Receive at Pickup 1. Staff will attempt to contact the parent by phone. Parent may not give permission over the phone or send a note for pick-up by an unauthorized person. The parent must make arrangements for an authorized person to pick up the child. 2. If the parent cannot be reached, staff will call the list of pick-up persons and emergency contacts. 3. It is the policy of Head Start that when a child is not picked up by the end of their child’s class session, to receive a NO ONE to Receive Notification Form for the parent to sign acknowledging that the child was picked up late and the possible consequences that could happen if it a child is not picked up by the end of their session. 4. If neither parent nor contacts can be reached to pick up the child in a reasonable amount of time (after 1 hour from the end of school), this can be considered child neglect or abandonment, and the Police and/or Children Services may be contacted. Non-Custodial Parent with Legal Documentation In the case of a divorced or separated family, the agency cannot legally refuse a parent the right to pick up the child unless staff have been notified that such action has been outlined in the divorce or custody papers through the courts and documentation has been provided. If the non – custodial parent arrives to pick up the child and prior permission has not been received, the following procedure will happen: 1. Parent will be asked to provide documentation from the courts. 2. Custodial parent will be contacted for verification of pick up before the child is released. The parent will be informed that the non-custodial parent is requesting the release of the child and has presented court documentation necessary to release the child. Non- Custodial Parent without Legal Documentation 1. Staff will not release the child. 2. Custodial parent will be contacted. Parent Roster Information The roster is available upon request. Transportation and Trips LCCAA Head Start center-based programs do not provide transportation to centers or field trips. Parents/guardians will sign a Routine Trip form upon enrollment of their child/ren. This form gives permission for local walking trips, such as to the library or evacuation sites.

Emergency and Accident Policy In case of an emergency and/or accident, the center has posted a medical and dental emergency plan. Staff will complete an incident report form. The center will administer first aid, summon emergency transportation, if needed, and contact parents. See pages 24-25 for additional emergency procedures. For any parent who refuses emergency transportation, the agency will follow parents’ instructions listed on DCY forms in emergencies. School Closures and Delays School closings and delays are made to ensure the safety of your child. Reasons for school closures can include hazardous weather, loss of heat, water, electricity, etc. You must make your own judgment about driving in hazardous weather situations. If bad weather begins and you wish to pick up your child early, you are free to do so. School closings will be communicated with families on LCCAA’s Facebook page, the agency website at www.lccaa.net, School Status Connect, and local news channels’ school alert systems. Wellington and Firelands classrooms close when their school districts close. Lagrange will close when their building, the Early Learning Center, is closed.

Parent Conduct To maintain an orderly, respectful, and safe educational environment, all parents and visitors are expected to behave respectfully and appropriately. Inappropriate language or threats, whether verbal or physical, will not be tolerated and will be addressed as needed. Families and Head Start staff share responsibility for supporting children’s education. If concerns arise with staff, please follow the procedures outlined in this handbook. LCCAA Head Start staff, parents, and visitors are expected to model positive behavior for children. LCCAA leadership and the Parent Policy Council ask all parents and visitors to conduct themselves accordingly.

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

EARLY CHILDHOOD SERVICES Parent/Teacher Communication Early Childhood Services consist of Teachers, Assistant Teachers, Early Childhood Service Assistants, Home Visitors, Site Administration, and support staff . The Educational Services component will meet the needs of participating children, including children with special needs. We use the Creative Curriculum, which is based upon the assumption that a child learns by interacting with objects and people in his or her environment. Many opportunities are provided for each child to physically experience a wide variety of materials and equipment by both structured and spontaneous learning and play. Children are presented with activities that are appropriate for their individual developmental stage. Head Start’s primary strategy is to prevent problems by reducing risks and nourishing a child’s growth. Assisting children in developing their competence in all areas of growth is critical. Head Start education is based on the belief that direct involvement of the family is necessary for a child to learn and grow. Parents and teachers create an individual learning plan for each child to develop learning opportunities based on the child’s ability. We look forward to sharing developmental milestones and goals. The following is a list of the ways the teachers and parents will communicate throughout the year: 1. Folders ● The children will keep daily work in their personal mailboxes/folders in the classroom. ● Teachers will send important notices in a Classroom Connector folder. The folder is clearly marked with papers to keep and which to sign and send back on your child’s next school day. 2. School Status Connect ● School Status Connect is a family-school communication platform that can be used to post notices, share photos, and send messages back and forth. ● This app can be downloaded on a smartphone or tablet or accessed through a computer. 3. Classroom Biweekly Newsletter ● The Biweekly will be sent home every two weeks. It contains skills your child is working on in the classroom, the curriculum study/investigation being discussed, suggested books to read to your child, and special event information. ● Parents may add any suggestions or ideas by filling in the bottom portion of the newsletter. ● A parent volunteer log filled with activities for you to do with your child will be attached to the biweekly newsletter. Please fill out this form accordingly and return it with the signed biweekly.

4. Home Visits ● The child’s teachers will make two - three home visits during the school year. The first one usually occurs before school starts, with others in October and April or May. ● At the first home visit, two educational goals are set with the parent and child. These goals will be revisited at each home visit/conference throughout the year. ● Teachers will provide learning activities to support school readiness. ● Child screening results and progress throughout the year are shared. 5. Conferences ● Twice a year (December & February/March), you will meet with your child’s teachers to discuss your child’s progress throughout the year. ● Learning activities to support school readiness will be provided. 6. LCCAA Head Start Newsletter ● The Head Start Newsletter provides valuable information in the form of articles, activities that parents and children can do together, upcoming events, and other Head Start News. The menu will be listed here as well.

HEAD START CURRICULUM MODEL LCCAA Head Start uses Creative Curriculum, a comprehensive and research-based curriculum that features exploration and discovery as a way of learning. It enables children to develop confidence, creativity, and lifelong critical thinking skills. The Creative Curriculum platform is designed to elevate the role of the teacher as a central guide for whole-child development. Within this role, the teacher provides the resources and tools needed for individualized instruction that benefit all early learners.

ASSESSING CHILDREN’S DEVELOPMENT Effective teaching begins with understanding each child as an individual. Each child’s developmental progress will be tracked according to curriculum objectives and shared with parents. The program will also share assessment data with DCY and Workforce and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), as required by state and local program requirements, including Ohio Administrative Code 5101:2-17-02. Careful observations help teachers choose instructional strategies, understand each child, and plan the needs of the group. Children benefit when families and staff work together to support their development and learning. THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT The learning environment includes how teachers set up and maintain interest areas in the classroom, establish schedules and routines, organize choice times and small- and large-group times, and create a classroom community where children learn how to get along with others and solve problems peacefully. Children will be developing skills in each of these content areas: Literacy, Math, Science, Social Studies, Social Emotional, The Arts, and Technology.

RESEARCH AND THEORY The Creative Curriculum framework is based on the research of well-known theorists in the early childhood field, such as Piaget, Maslow, Erikson, Smilansky, Vygotsky, and Gardner. The five components of The Creative Curriculum are applied to the eleven areas listed inside the framework: ● Blocks - When children play with blocks, they begin to understand math concepts, such as height of buildings, geometric shapes, weight, and size. ● Dramatic play - Children take on different roles and enact real-life experiences to deepen their understanding of the world. They also learn to cooperate with others, solve problems, and think abstractly. ● Toys and Games - These help children use their imaginations, explore how things work, strengthen and improve the muscles in their hands, work cooperatively with others, and learn new content. 15

● Art - Drawing, painting, cutting, molding, and constructing help children express their ideas and feelings, improve coordination, learn colors and textures, and develop creativity and pride in their accomplishments. ● Library - This is the foundation for reading and writing, and the relaxing quiet spot for students to let their imaginations run. Books are changed based on the seasons and classroom studies, so there is always something for everyone. ● Discovery - This area is a place where children explore and investigate answers to their questions. They observe, experiment, take things apart, and use tools to handle a variety of materials, as well as learn how to communicate with others. ● Sand and Water- Children are encouraged to experiment with these, and other materials. When children pour with funnels and measuring cups, they are exploring math concepts; dropping objects into water teaches about the concepts of sink and float. ● Music and Movement - Singing and moving to music give children a chance to hear different kinds of music, express themselves through movement, and practice new skills. Music helps them cooperate in a group and improves transitions. ● Cooking - “Reading” recipe, measuring ingredients, and mixing teaches math, literacy, and self-help skills. ● Technology - Using technology helps with math, literacy, problem-solving, and helps to prepare students for using technology in the future. ● Outdoors- Playing outdoors helps your child notice and appreciate the sights, sounds, and smells of the world around them, as well as help to develop their bodies by running, climbing, and exploring.

THE DAILY ROUTINE The elements of the daily routine will remain the same in all the classrooms. The order of these elements may differ due to scheduling outdoor times, gym time, special events, etc. These elements are: TOILETING Preschool students will have regular trips to the bathroom throughout the day or as needed. ● All Head Start students must use, or be working towards using, the toilet independently. This means they will be able to maneuver clothing, use zippers or other fasteners, and wipe themselves independently. Teachers can only support children by coaching them step by step with words from the doorway or by assisting with a spotter available. ● If your child is not toilet trained, Family Service Assistants and teachers will immediately create an individualized Potty Mastery Plan. It will consist of action steps, resources, and timelines to be consistently followed at home and school. Family involvement is an essential part of the potty action plan. ● Families must provide a spare set of clothes to the teacher for toileting emergencies or be called to provide some if no spare clothes are available.

ARRIVAL Teachers will greet each child upon arrival and complete a wellness check. The children may have quiet activities or breakfast to start the day, depending on the classroom schedule. GROUP MEETING Group meetings may include singing a welcome song, discussing attendance, the daily schedule, and classroom jobs, answering the question of the day, conducting an activity related to the study, or being introduced to new materials added to interest areas. BREAKFAST/ LUNCH/ SNACKS Meals are eaten in small groups and served in family style. Adults eat with the children, and conversation is child centered. Serving bowls will be passed from child to child, with students plating their own meals. TOOTHBRUSHING All children will brush their teeth daily in the classroom. All dental resources are provided and sent home throughout the year as well. NAP TIME / QUIET TIME Children will engage in a nap or quiet time of 90 minutes each day after lunch. CHOICE TIME During choice time children can work with any of the materials in any of the interest areas. At 60 minutes, choice time is the longest single time segment in the daily routine. SMALL GROUP TIME During small group activities, teachers introduce new concepts and reinforce skills for each individual child. Although the adult chooses and introduces the materials, he/she encourages the children to use the materials in a variety of ways. LARGE GROUP TIME At large group time, all the adults and children in the group get together to play games, sing songs, dance, play musical instruments, repeat phonemic awareness activities, exercise, or reenact special events. READ ALOUD Teachers introduce a new story or reread a familiar one, ask questions, reenact and retell stories, and involve children in the reading. INDOOR/OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE Teachers lead activities related to a study, assist in game and movement activities, and encourage free play that promotes large-muscle development. Indoor/Outdoor play is provided daily, so please ensure your child is dressed accordingly for the weather. WATER ACTIVITIES/SWIMMING Sand and water play are available daily in the classroom. Smocks are provided, but your child may still get wet. LCCAA Head Start does not offer swimming opportunities.

DAILY ROUTINES - FULL DAY SESSIONS Sample schedules below and will vary by classroom

Hopkins Locke · Elyria Griswold · Central Plaza ∙ South Elyria 8:30-9:00 Arrival/Conscious Discipline Greeting/Tabletop Activities 9:00-9:30 Breakfast/Toothbrushing 9:30-10:00 Group Meeting 10:00-11:00 Free Choice/clean up 11:00 -11:20 Small Group 11:20-11:35 Read Aloud 11:35 – 12:05 Indoor/Outdoor Experience 12:05-12:15 Restroom Break 12:15-12:45 Lunch 12:45-1:00 Restroom Break 1:00-2:30 Rest Time 2:30-2:45 Restroom Break 2:45-3:00 Heggerty Phonemic Lessons 3:00-3:20 IMIL 3:20-3:45 Snack 3:45-4:15 Tabletop activities 4:15-4:30 Recall the day and Departures

Wellington 8:30-9:00 Arrival/Conscious Discipline Greeting/ Breakfast 9:00-9:30 Toothbrushing/Group Meeting 9:30-9:50 Small Group 9:50-10:00 Restroom Break 10:00-10:30 Indoor/Outdoor Experience 10:30-10:45 Read-Aloud 10:45-11:45 Choice Time 11:45-12:15 Lunch 12:15-12:30 Restroom Break 12:30-2:00 Rest Time 2:00-2:15 Restroom/Group Meeting 2:15- 2:30 Heggerty Phonemic Lessons 2:30- 2:45 IMIL 2:45- 3:00 Handwashing and Restroom break 3:00- 3:30 Recall the day and Departures

Firelands 8:30-8:45 Arrival/Conscious Discipline Greeting/Sign-In 8:45-9:15 Breakfast/Toothbrushing 9:15-9:30 Morning Meeting 9:30-9:50 Small Group 9:50-11:00 Free Choice/Clean-Up 11:00-11:30 Indoor/Outdoor Experience 11:30-11:45 Learning Without Tears 11:45-12:15 Lunch 12:15-12:30 Read Aloud 12:30-2:00 Rest Time 2:00-2:15 Heggerty Phonemic Awareness 2:15-2:30 IMIL 2:30-3:00 Group Meeting and Departure

Lagrange 9:00-9:30 Arrival/Conscious Discipline Greeting/Restroom Break 9:30- 10:00 Breakfast/Toothbrushing 10:00-10:10 Group Meeting 10:10- 10:30 Small Group 10:30-11:30 Choice Time 11:30- 12:00 Indoor / Outdoor Experience 12:00-12:15 Heggerty Phonemic Lessons 12:15-12:45 Lunch 12:45-2:30 Quiet Time/Restroom Break 2:30-2:45 Read Aloud 2:45- 3:15 IMIL 3:15-3:30 Snack 3:30- 4:00- Indoor / Outdoor Experience 4:00-4:15- Book Choice/ Table Top Activities 4:15-4:30 Recall the day and Departures

Home-Based Programs LCCAA offers home-based learning as an alternative to center-based learning. The home-based program is a great option for families without transportation or with other family concerns that prevent attending daily in a classroom. Head Start Home Visitors come into the home for 1.5 hours a week, bringing books and a learning activity for the parent and child to participate together. The curriculum used in the home-based program is called Growing Great Kids. Since interacting with other children about their own age is the best way for children to gain the social skills they need for future school success, regularly scheduled socializations are held in a classroom setting. Parents can talk to each other, and the children can play together. Children enrolled in a home-based program will still have access to screenings, assessments, and opportunities to participate in agency-wide family activities.

Transition Policy and Implementation Plan A Head Start student may transition for any of the following situations: ● Transition into the Head Start Program ● Transition between classrooms ● Transition from preschool to kindergarten We are committed to easing these transitions for both the child and the family.

Kindergarten Transition Head Start will maintain a list of eligible kindergarten children and work closely with the local school districts to provide a continuation of services to children as they transition into kindergarten (in accordance with the preschool to school age Inter– Agency Agreements). Parents will receive a kindergarten packet for children who will be transitioning into kindergarten. Head Start will contact major school districts after the winter break to obtain information on kindergarten registration. When possible, Head Start will provide on-site registration, copies of documentation, and any developmental data needed for enrollment to kindergarten. Transition will end with the bridging ceremony that symbolizes the child’s transition into the next stage of education.

GUIDANCE AND MANAGEMENT POLICY / DISCIPLINE PLAN LCCAA Head Start’s discipline policy follows the Conscious Discipline behavior modification concept and the Creative Curriculum problem-solving concept. The ultimate goal of this policy is to assist all children in the development of self-control and self-regulation. Staff will strive to prevent situations from occurring when possible. Children having difficulty in cooperative play will be redirected and assisted to find more positive and productive “work” and interest. Staff will talk with children, listen to their concerns, and assist in finding solutions. All staff persons will use the following guidelines: 1. There shall be no cruel, harsh, or unusual punishments. 2. No discipline technique shall be delegated to any other child. 3. No physical restraints shall be used to confine a child. 4. No child shall be placed in a locked room. 5. No child shall be humiliated or subjected to profane language or other verbal abuse. Discipline shall not be imposed on a child for failure to eat, failure to sleep, or for toileting accidents. 6. Techniques of discipline shall not unnecessarily humiliate, shame, or frighten a child. 7. Under Ohio Administrative Code 5180:2-12-19, “staff must always know each child’s location and activities and ensure children are protected from harm, supported in their development, and cared for in a nurturing environment”.

All staff persons will use the following process: 1. A thorough evaluation of the situation. 2. A redirection of the child’s activities. A teacher will use developmentally

appropriate techniques that take into consideration the child’s age and circumstances. 3. A discussion with the child to assist with self-regulation. 4. If challenging behaviors are ongoing, the teacher may make a referral for

observation by the agency’s mental health consultant. 5. If necessary, a family support plan will be implemented to ensure a child’s safety in the classroom environment. This may include a modified schedule or transition to Home Base to ensure a successful school day. 22

SAFE OUTDOOR PLAY Temperatures & Physical Activity Active Play and Inactive Time ● Children participate in “I am Moving, I am Learning” (IMIL) throughout the day, which is an initiative to increase health and physical fitness. ● Preschool aged children will have at least 30 minutes of unstructured physical activity per day. ● Active play time is never withheld as punishment. ● When outdoor opportunities are not possible due to adverse weather conditions, similar activities are provided inside. Supporting Physical Activity ● Staff members encourage children to be active and are required to join children in active play. ● Staff members receive training in physical activity during the course of the school year. ● Physical activity is promoted in the classrooms and common areas through the use of discussion, pictures, and displayed books. Play Environment A wide variety of fixed play equipment (slides, climbing equipment), as well as portable play equipment (balls, hulahoops, etc.) are available to the children. Outdoor time is part of the daily schedule; it is important that children have appropriate clothing (jackets, hats, etc.) and footwear (closed-toe shoes) at the center for all weather conditions. *

*According to the Ohio Administrative Code Rule 5180:2-12-17 “Requirements include: (5) Providing outdoor play in suitable weather for any infant over twelve months of age, toddler, preschool, and school-age child in attendance four or more consecutive daylight hours. Suitable weather is at a minimum of twenty-five to ninety degrees Fahrenheit.”

Head Start Emergency / Disaster Policy The Head Start program has devised several procedures to follow in the event of an emergency. Non-perishable emergency food and water is kept on site at all of our Head Start centers. In the event of a fire or tornado, staff will follow the written evacuation plan instructions posted in each classroom. The staff will ensure that children arrive at the designated site. To prepare children for the unlikely need to evacuate the building, the centers will conduct monthly fire drills and periodic tornado drills. Should evacuation occur due to fire, weather conditions, or the loss of power, heat, or water, children will be taken to the safe sites listed on the following page. A sign will be posted on the front of the building indicating that the center has been evacuated. Children will not be accepted for drop-offs at this time. If a parent cannot be reached, we will contact the emergency contacts listed on your child’s enrollment information. The process to release a child from the emergency evacuation location utilizes the Reunification Cards. Individuals picking up children will be asked to present a photo ID and complete a reunification card for each child. Head Start center-based students also practice lockdown drills regularly. In the unlikely event of a threat of violence, the staff will secure the children in the safest location possible, following the direction of the proper authorities. Depending on the level of danger, children may continue regular classroom activities, but we will lock the door and remain in the classroom, or they may lock the door, turn off the lights, and remain quiet. During a lockdown, no one will be permitted to enter or exit the building until local authorities have deemed it safe to resume normal activities. Parents will be contacted as soon as the situation allows. Staff members receive training in communicable disease and First Aid / CPR. In case of a minor accident/injury, staff will administer basic first aid. If the injury is more serious, first aid will be administered, and the parents contacted immediately to assist in deciding the appropriate course of action. If an injury is life threatening, EMS will be contacted, parents will be notified, and a staff member will accompany the child to the hospital with all available health records. Staff will not transport children in their vehicles. An incident report will be provided to the parents for any injury to the child.

SAFE SITES FOR LCCAA HEAD START EMERGENCY EVACUATION

Central Plaza First Student 1923 Elyria Ave Lorain, Ohio 44052 (440) 288-7405

Griswold Great Lakes Honda 823 Leona Street Elyria, Ohio 44034 (440) 366-5501

South Elyria

Firelands

Primary:

Elyria Public Library- South 340 15th St. Elyria, Ohio 44035 (440) 322-0910

Firelands Elementary School 10779 Vermilion Rd. Oberlin, Ohio 44074 (440) 965-4255

Secondary:

Hamilton Elementary School 1215 Middle Ave. Elyria, Ohio 44035 (440) 284-8007

The Church of the Open Door 43275 Telegraph Rd. Elyria, Ohio 44035 (440) 323-4644

Lagrange Carlisle City Hall 11969 Lagrange Rd. Lagrange, Ohio 44050 (440) 458-4491

Wellington McCormick Middle School 627 Main Street Wellington, Ohio 44090 (440) 647-2342 Secondary:

Hopkins Locke 214 West 10th St Lorain, OH 44052 (440) 204-3180

Wellington Fire Department 202 Kelly St. Wellington, Ohio 44090 (440) 647- 2245

We hope that these procedures will never need to be used, however, it is important that all parents understand the importance of being prepared. We thank you in advance for your cooperation and support as we work to ensure that all children are kept safe.

SPECIAL SERVICES

SPECIAL SERVICES Head Start believes that early intervention makes it possible for children with special needs to be supported and educated in their least restrictive environment (LRE). Head Start serves children diagnosed with any type of disability, whether it is medical or educational. We contract with a Speech and Language Pathologist and a Mental Health Consultant who help formally assess children who have been identified as needing further evaluation. Our consultants are available to assess children while also providing support to the children, families, and teachers. Upon entry into our Head Start program, each child is screened using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Third Edition (ASQ-3) and the e-DECA. The ASQ-3 is completed by parents and the e-DECA by the parents and/or teachers. These enable us to look at the child’s development for his/her current age. The screenings will look at developmental domains including Communication, Fine Motor, Gross Motor, Problem Solving, Personal Social, and Social Emotional. Screening results will be discussed with parents. If a disability is suspected, Head Start and your local school district or community agency will work together to evaluate the child. If your child is eligible for special education services through the local school district or community agency, you will participate in developing an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that will ensure your child’s needs will be addressed.

DISABILITIES/ MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ● Implement a program of identification, referral, treatment, and support for children and their parents. ● Inform staff and parents of the need for an environment that is supportive and responsive to the uniqueness of each child’s developmental needs. ● Assist in the process of providing intervention for children with special needs by utilizing observations, evaluations, conferences, and individualized services. ●

Develop a Medical/Health Care Plan with family and staff to ensure that each child receives the appropriate care while at Head Start.

● Mobilize community services to serve the special needs of the children and their families through Inter- Agency Collaborative Agreements and cooperative partnerships. ● Provide all special needs of children with services that enable both the child and parents to be active participants in the Head Start program, as determined at the IEP meeting, when Head Start is specified as the least restrictive environment. 27

FAMILY SERVICES

Family Services Philosophy and Objectives 28

The philosophy of Family Services in Head Start is that of supporting families, building relationships, and establishing family partnerships. The Family/Health Services area of Head Start represents an organized method of assisting families by providing services that will build their individual strengths. The Head Start Family Services approach is directed at the recognition of the family’s need to be treated with dignity and respect, and to develop a sense of self-direction and self-esteem. In the Head Start Program, social services are conducted with families, not for families. The emphasis is on families and individuals using their own strengths to resolve the conflicts in their lives from environmental pressures. The focus for the Family Services staff is support. Families must make their own decisions concerning which alternatives within the Head Start social services network they choose to utilize. The interpersonal relationships established between staff and family members provide the vehicle through which effective decision-making takes place. The Head Start Family Services area is concerned with supporting families in their efforts to: ● Become more aware of their individual strengths. ● Maintain a strong sense of family pride and self-worth. ●

Improve their ability to identify and meet their needs.

● Remove obstacles preventing them from entering into meaningful activities with their children. ● Increase their capacity to find and utilize community support and resources for their family.

Head Start Family Services will have reached its goal if each family it serves: ● Has developed or increased the ability to identify its strengths and weaknesses. ●

Has the capacity to recognize what they need when they are having difficulties, and where to get assistance.

●

Feels in control of their own lives.

●

Has been referred to LCCAA’s other programs through the 5-Star Referral system, if eligible.

● Has confidence in dealing with a complex network of community agencies and services.

Family Service Assistants / Home Visitors 29

Each family will be assigned to a Family Service Assistant or Home Visitor who will partner with the family. They will assist with parent involvement activities, maintain the enrollment and registration information of the children, track physicals, dentals, and provide follow-up as needed. Family Service Assistants will offer home visits to parents as a supportive opportunity to complete paperwork, offer community resources, and share information about the program. These visits are separate from the visits conducted by teachers. Parent Curriculum Ready Rosie is an online educational support program for families. It is composed of short video vignettes that demonstrate a fun family activity and ways to incorporate new vocabulary. The Ready Rosie app can be downloaded onto a smartphone or tablet or accessed from a computer. Confidentiality Statement Information shared with the Head Start staff will be kept strictly confidential, unless its release is authorized in writing by the parent/guardian. Registration, family information, and children’s records are maintained in locked files. Breach of confidentiality is a serious offense and is considered a cause for termination of employment. Picture Taking and Social Media Parents enjoy taking pictures of their children; however, LCCAA Head Start must monitor the pictures taken at all our events. If you are taking a picture of your child, please ensure that only your child and/or family members are in the picture. LCCAA Head Start must have permission to take children’s pictures, and other parents do not have the right to take pictures of children and/or family members other than their own. Parents do not have the right to post pictures on any social media site of persons other than their children and/or family members.

LCCAA Head Start Child Abuse and Neglect Policy The child abuse and neglect policy has been written in accordance with the Federal Policy and the State of Ohio Reporting Law. Its purpose is to provide a philosophy of practice and set of procedures that will govern the prevention, identification, treatment, and reporting of child abuse and neglect for the LCCAA Head Start Program. Head Start staff are mandated reporters and by law must report all suspected child abuse. Philosophy Statement The LCCAA Head Start program recognizes the fact that a significant percentage of cases of child abuse and neglect involve children who are less than six years old. Children with special needs are especially at risk. It is important for us to make every possible effort to assist in the elimination and prevention of either suspected or identified maltreatment of Head Start children.

Every effort will be made to maintain a close working relationship with the Lorain County Department of Children Services. Lorain County Department of Children Services is recognized as the primary organization in the child protective system. We recognize our required reporting status as mandated reporters, and we are aware that the state law grants immunity to persons making reports in good faith. Any LCCAA Head Start staff who suspect child abuse or neglect is required to make a report to Children Services. The purpose of the child abuse and neglect policy is to: ● Aid in the prevention and elimination of child abuse and neglect. ● Establish a close working relationship with the Protective Services System. ● Assist our program to be as knowledgeable as possible about the problem of child abuse and neglect.

Complaint Procedure Performance Objective: The program documents and responds appropriately to families or community members about Head Start in an efficient, professional, appropriate manner. Operational Procedures: 1. Complaints should be brought to the attention of a staff person by requesting a Parent Complaint Form. 2. All complaints will be forwarded to the Family Engagement Specialist and the Education and Disabilities Specialist for review and follow-up. The Head Start Director should receive a copy of the complaint with attached documentation and follow-up notes. 3. If the person(s) is not satisfied with the results of these steps, he/she may appeal to the Head Start Director and then the President & CEO or his/her designee. The decision of the President and CEO is final. 4. All complaints that escalate to the President and CEO may be discussed with the Policy Council for input into the final decision. 5. The complaint will be addressed at each point in the proceedings within (5) days.

Parent Participation Opportunities 31

There are many forms of parent participation in our Head Start Program: 1. Participation in the process of making decisions about the nature and operation of the program. ● Policy Council membership and monthly meetings (see more details under Policy Council subheading). ● Monthly Parent Meetings. ● Attendance and participation in Education, Health, or Safety Advisory committee meetings. ● Creating goals based on the child’s developmental screenings, assessments, and observations during home visits and conferences. 2. Participate in the classroom as volunteers.  Read a story  Share Life Skills  Engage in Classroom Activities 3. Participation in activities for students and parents. ● Special Events ● Learning Links ● Activity Logs ● Ready Rosie

The Volunteer Program The Head Start program is funded by grants from the Federal Department of Health and Human Services, the State of Ohio Department of Health and Human Services, and the Ohio Department of Children and Youth. We must match 20% through In-Kind. In-Kind refers to volunteer time and donated materials or services. Volunteering is not a requirement for enrollment. It is, however, vitally important that parents volunteer for their time and services to enhance the program and their children’s learning experience. Classroom Volunteers We welcome volunteers in our classrooms. Please see your child’s teacher to make arrangements or watch for specific volunteering requests. Volunteers in the classroom are expected to behave, dress, and use language appropriate for children. Volunteer Hours Volunteer hours are documented for participating in approved activities (classroom support, parent meetings, office work, parent activities, etc.). When completing the monthly Volunteer Log, parents are required to document and track the time spent on activities. Volunteers are encouraged to submit volunteer forms monthly so that the program can receive proper credit. The most important volunteering efforts for the program are the hours you spend supporting your child’s educational and emotional growth. Policy Council 32

Every Head Start program must have a Policy Council as part of its shared leadership structure. The Policy Council is a group of Head Start parents and community members who help lead and make decisions about their program. The Policy Council meets regularly as a group. Members can serve for one year at a time, for up to five years. They work closely with the program's management team and governing body to provide overall direction for the program. Serving on Policy Council strengthens leadership and advocacy skills as well as connections to peers and the community. Policy Council members are elected by the parents of children enrolled in the program into the following positions: ● President ● Vice-President ● Secretary Parents who participate in Policy Council also have an opportunity to attend Head Start conferences to learn more about Head Start and network with other parents and advocates.

Parent Meetings Monthly meetings are held to give parents the opportunity to discuss center activities and to participate in mini workshops held on topics of interest. Meetings will be scheduled with parent feedback concerning dates and times. .

HEALTH AND NUTRITION SERVICES

Lorain County Health Department nurses conduct lead and hemoglobin screenings.

Nutrition and

kitchen team members

pose in front of our Head Start food delivery vans. 34

HEALTH Enrollment and Health information is required for Admission. I. Head Start promotes child physical development and school readiness through comprehensive health services. Programs require up-to-date immunizations and EPSDT well-child exams The following must be up to date information and needs to be provided for each child: 1. A physical examination with results on Head Start forms and signed by a physician. 2. Vision screening 3. Hearing screening 4. The following lab screenings completed by the Doctor: a. Hemoglobin or Hematocrit b. Lead c. Sickle Cell d. Urinalysis 5. Immunizations must be up to date and received within 30 days of the first day of school 6. Recorded weight 7. Recorded height II. Parent Obligations 1. You must provide a medical and social history for your child. 2. All physical must be completed, or the child will be unable to attend school. III. Referrals If a medical problem is disclosed upon examination, you will need to schedule an appointment with the appropriate medical professional to follow up on the problem (eye doctor, Ear/ Nose/Throat Doctor, etc.). IV. Health screenings Parents will be notified of screening dates and results.

DENTAL Each Child Must Have: 1. Dental examination completed 2. Prophylaxis (cleaning) 3. Fluoridation 4. X-ray 5. Cavities treated A Head Start form must be completed and signed by the Dentist. The completed form must be returned to the office of the Head Start program or the Home Visitor within 90 days of the entry date.

MANAGEMENT OF ILLNESS The administration will review with all staff members the signs and symptoms of illness and proper hand washing and disinfecting procedures. The review should be given to each new employee and discussed periodically at staff meetings. No staff shall attend the center if they exhibit signs and symptoms listed on the Ohio Communicable Disease Chart. The administrator reserves the right to request a physician note for a staff member to return to work. A staff member will observe all children upon entering their group. The center will notify the parent or guardian of a child’s condition when a child has been observed with any signs and symptoms listed on the DCY Communicable Disease Chart. Charts are posted prominently in each center. A child who has been suspected of communicable disease shall be isolated in a special area away from the other children. The child will be within sight and hearing of an adult at all times until they are picked up by someone on the pick-up list. The child will be readmitted after he or she is 24 hours symptom-free and has been checked by the staff or accompanied by a written note from the doctor or health department stating that the child is free from illness when required. Parents of other children in the center will be notified of exposure to communicable disease in writing as necessary. Students without immunizations will be excluded when there is a reported vaccine-preventable communicable disease. The center’s policy regarding the administration of medication, topical products, medical foods, vitamins, modified diets, or fluoride supplements is as follows: Head Start Staff administers no medication, topical products, medical foods, vitamins, modified diets, or fluoride supplements without written instructions from a physician or RD. DCY Child Care licensing policies will be followed. Additionally, administration of medication and care procedures to children with disabilities will be done in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 36

COMMUNICABLE DISEASE READMISSION PROCEDURE 1. Children with communicable disease are not permitted to attend class. 2. If your child has a communicable disease, you must notify the office. 3. Children must be symptom-free without medication for 24 hours and be examined by the staff or submit a doctor’s note before returning to the classroom to determine freedom from the contagion. 4. Those who have a note from a doctor must give it to a staff person receiving the child so it can be reviewed by the Family Service Assistant. 5.

In the case of Head Lice, an FSA will check the child’s head to see if they are free of nits (eggs), nymphs (young lice), or adult lice before returning to the classroom. If they are nit-free, then they may return to school.

ISOLATE & SEND HOME 1. Diarrhea 2. Severe Coughing 3. Difficult or Rapid Breathing 4. Yellow Skin or Eyes 5. Redness of the eye (Discharge, Matted eyelashes, Burning, Itching) 6. Temperature of at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit when in combination with any other sign or symptoms of illness. Temperature shall be taken by the axillary (armpit) method. 7. Infected Skin Patches 8. Dark Urine/ Gray or White Stool 9. Stiff Neck 10. Lice, Scabies, or other Parasites 11. Unusual Spots or Rashes 12. Vomiting 13. Sore Throat/ Difficulty Swallowing 14. Covid 19

ISOLATE AND OBSERVE 1. Minor Cold Symptoms Alone 2. Not Feeling Well Enough to Participate The site administrator or other supervisor/designee will make decisions regarding the discharge of a child. Any child sent home for communicable disease may return once they are symptom-free without medication for 24 hours and are in accordance with DCY policies and procedures. PS: 1302.47.4.i, Policy ID: HL1002 (a)

Why Complete Health Screenings for Children? Health screenings benefit the overall health of the child. It is through checkups and tests that potential health problems can be identified. Lead Lead can be harmful to your child, slowing physical and mental growth, and damaging many parts of the body. The most common way children get lead poisoning is by being around old house paint that is chipping or peeling. Some authorities recommend lead tests at 1 and 2 years of age. If you can answer “yes” to any of the questions below, your child may need lead tests earlier and more often than other children. Has your child: Lived in or regularly visited a house built before 1950? ● Lived in or regularly visited a house built before 1978 (the year lead-based paint was banned for residential use) with recent, ongoing, or planned renovation or remodeling? ● Had a brother or sister, housemate, or playmate monitored or treated for lead poisoning? ●

LCCAA Head Start is committed to providing safe and healthy facilities that are free from pollutants, hazards, and toxins that are accessible to children and could endanger their safety, including lead in water and paint. To meet performance standards, the program has developed a Water/Surface Lead Testing and Remediation Plan, which includes policies and procedures to reduce children’s exposure to lead in drinking water and surfaces within the facilities.

Vision Screening Vision screenings are used to find children who are at high risk for possible vision problems. Vision screenings do not take the place of a complete eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Young children with vision problems do not know the way that they see the world is not the way they should be seeing it. Without early detection and treatment, children’s vision problems can lead to permanent vision loss and learning difficulties. Your child(ren) will receive a vision screening within 45 days of starting school. The screening will be completed by a Family Service Assistant (FSA) who has been trained and certified through Prevent Blindness. It is important to remember that vision screening is not the same as a comprehensive eye examination. We encourage you to schedule a complete eye exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to ensure that your child receives any additional evaluation or treatment that may be needed. If you need assistance finding an eye doctor, please contact your FSA.

Vision Warning Signs ● Eyes turning inward (crossing) or outward ● Squinting ● Headaches ● Blurred or double vision

Vision Screening Tests Observation is how the eyes appear upon visual inspection. Visual Acuity is the sharpness of vision in each eye. Your child/ren will be screened 5 feet away using the VIP LEA Symbols Visual Acuity Test. The symbols used are a circle, square, house, and an apple. Children will practice by naming the symbols before screening. The vision screener is accustomed to other names being given to these items and will follow your child’s lead.

card.

The screening is done at a distance of five feet, and the child will identify symbols by naming or pointing to the match on the practice

Passing Criteria: 3 yr old: 5/12.5-4-year-old: 5/10 line, and 5 yr old: 5/10 line. Children must correctly name or match at least three of the four symbols of this size (which is the smallest line of age specific Lea Symbols). If the child fails the screening, a rescreen will be done within 2 weeks. A failure at this time will result in a referral letter sent home with the child

Hearing Screening LCCAA FSAs are trained to conduct hearing screenings using the Pure Tone Screening and OAE for preschoolers. If a child does not pass, staff will retest in two weeks then record as pass or fail. If a failure is recorded, a rescreen will be done within 2 weeks. A failure at this time will result in a referral letter being sent home for follow-up with a doctor. Although our staff are trained screeners, they are not medical personnel. The screenings are done to identify possible concerns. See a medical doctor if your child exhibits any of the following hearing warning signs: ● Poor response to noise or voice ● Slow language and speech development ● Abnormal sounding speech

Additional Screenings Head Start also requires a screening for Anemia (blood test). Anemia is having less than the normal number of red blood cells or less hemoglobin than normal in the blood. Family Service Assistants will measure heights and weights twice a year for each child. The screenings determine the BMI (Body Mass Index) for each child and identify children who are or at risk of being over or underweight.

NUTRITION POLICY Beverages ● Drinking water is always available, and is promoted by teachers, both indoors and outdoors. ● Only 1% milk is served to children. Menus and Variety ● Our program uses a cycle menu for a four-week lunch and a two-week cycle for breakfast and snacks. Entrees are repeated no more than two times throughout the cycle. ● Our menus include a combination of new and familiar foods which are wholesome, of good quality, prepared from scratch, when possible, sufficient in amount, and varied in accordance with the USDA Dietary Guidelines. ● Foods are appropriate in portion and variety and served at regular hours at appropriate intervals. ● Our menus include foods from a variety of cultures, which broadens each child’s food experiences. We develop and serve child-friendly beans and legume dishes to introduce alternative protein sources. ● Meals include one serving of fruit and one serving of vegetables. Such items could include fresh fruits and vegetables, cooked, dried or canned fruits (canned in fruit juice or light syrup). A vegetable may be used to meet the entire fruit requirement. ● We offer high fiber whole grains at least 2 times a day. ● Menus are planned under the supervision of a Registered Dietitian. ● Menus are posted to inform parents about their child’s daily nutrition. Modified Diets Any special diet needs of the child will be accommodated upon receipt of documentation specifying restrictions. Once confirmed accommodations have been made in Nutrition Services, the parent(s) will be contacted with the child’s school start date. ● Modified diets will be implemented upon receipt of a form signed by the child’s physician or Registered Dietitian who prescribed the diet, with the expiration date. No diet will go beyond the expiration date. ● Almond milk and rice milk are not provided as a substitute for cow milk because it is not considered nutritionally equivalent to dairy milk according to the USDA/CACFP. 40

Mealtime Environment ● Meals are served in family style, with teachers joining the children for meals. This time is used for rich conversation about topics including the food being served. There is a no-screen policy during meals. Staff members eat the same food as the children and do not substitute their own food or drink. ● Staff members allow children to decide how much to eat. Children are encouraged to try new foods but never forced to eat something they do not like. Food is not used to reward behavior. ● Visible support for good nutrition is displayed in classrooms and common areas using posters, pictures, and books. ● We do not serve nuts, shellfish, or fish. ● Private space is available for parents who wish to breastfeed or pump breast milk. Nutrition Education ● Staff members receive training on nutrition (other than food safety and food program guidelines) at least twice per year. ● Nutrition Education opportunities are offered to parents at least twice a year. Outside Food Policy LCCAA Head Start is committed to providing safe, healthy, and nutritious food to children in our care. We respectfully request that no food be brought from home or elsewhere into the facility. Your child’s daily school diet follows the Ohio CACFP menu requirements and meets the USDA guidelines for a child’s recommended needs. Additionally, outside food cannot be monitored for our students with allergies. Parents arriving with food from an outside source will be asked to dispose of it. We do encourage parents to discuss options for “Healthy Celebrations” with their child’s teachers. Ideas include: ● Bring in your child’s favorite book or donate a book to the classroom. Read to the class in person or via Zoom. ● Share a special talent. ● Send in stickers, pencils, or inexpensive toys/party favors. ● Donate a fish or plant to the classroom. ● Send in your child’s favorite game to play or donate a game to the classroom.

Out of the Box Cooking Series with Melinda, Chef Luis, and Dietician Marge.

Screen Time Policy LCCAA Head Start understands that TV and other electronic media can get in the way of exploring, playing, and interacting with others, which encourages learning and healthy physical and social development. In accordance with the American Academy of Pediatrics’ recommendations, screen time is limited to 20 minutes per day (child computer/smartboard). We do not allow screen time during meals or snacks.

Ohio Healthy Program Designation

LCCAA Head Start is a proud partner of Ohio Healthy Programs, which includes a fivepart voluntary designation program that focuses on creating healthy habits, menus, policies, and family engagement in early childhood education programs to prevent childhood obesity. These practices ensure that your children have healthy food options and physical activities daily. USDA Nondiscrimination Statement In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices, employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaints filing deadlines vary by program or incident. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the state or local agency that administers the program or contact USDA through the Telecommunications Relay Service at 711 (voice and TTY). Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call 866-632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: 1. Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Mail Stop 9410 Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or 2. Fax: (202) 690-7442; or 3. Email: program.intake@usda.gov This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Good nutrition today means a stronger tomorrow!

Building for the Future with CACFP This day care receives support from the Child and Adult Care Food Program to serve healthy meals to your children. Meals served here must meet USDA’s nutrition standards. Questions? Concerns? LCCAA HEAD START 1949 Broadway Ave Lorain, Ohio 44052 (440) 245-2009

CACFP Consultant 25 S. Front Street, 3rd Floor Columbus, Ohio 43215-4183 (614) 466-2943

Learnmore about CACFP at USDA’s website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/ USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service FNS-317 November 2019

¡Buena nutrición hoy significa un mañana más saludable!

Construyendo para el Futuro con CACFP Esta guardería infantil recibe ayuda del “Child and Adult Care Food Program” para servir comidas nutritivas a sus niños. Comidas servidas aquí deben de seguir los requisitos nutricionales establecidos por USDA.

¿Preguntas? ¿Inquietudes? LCCAA HEAD START 1949 Broadway Ave Lorain, Ohio 44052 (440) 245-2009

CACFP Consultant 25 S. Front Street, 3rd Floor Columbus, Ohio 43215-4183 (614) 466-2943

Aprenda más información sobre CACFP en el sitio web del USDA: https://www.fns.usda.gov/ USDA es un proveedor, empleador y prestamista que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades. United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service FNS-317 Noviembre 2019