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Family Handbook ValuesMissionEnsure SafetyFacilitateDevelopmentFosterCommunityUphold Integrity Cultivate JoyProvide anurturing, safe,and enrichingenvironmentwhere childrenthrive and familiesfeel supported.(616) 577-6887 526 Maynard NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504G R O C H I L D C A R E . C O MContact Information hello@grochildcare.com. Message

Welcome. We are proud to be part of the community and lookforward to serving your family.We provide care for children from 6 weeks old to 12 years old.Our goal at grō childcare academy is to nurture and facilitatethe development of the whole child. You can be confident yourchild will thrive in a positive environment with our nurturingand supportive team members.We know a new beginning comes with questions. Thishandbook is here to serve as a guide for you and your family onthis journey. We have a Parent Resource section on our websitethat has an array of information:https://grochildcare.com/parentresources/ . Please take a fewminutes to become familiar with this information and thedocuments provided during the enrollment process. You can direct any questions to your director or reach our leadershipteam using any of the contact methods on the front page ofthis handbook.Prior to your child’s first day, you must complete theenrollment documents. These will be delivered to youelectronically and include but not limited to theParent/Handbook Acknowledgement, Child InformationRecord, Medication Permission, Topical OintmentAuthorization Form, and a Health Appraisal signed by yourchild’s physician or a signed immunization waiver if your childis 5-12 years old.During the enrollment process, we ask that you complete theGet to Know Me, Family Culture Questionnaire, and FamilyVolunteer Interest form. We value the information provided,especially on the Family Culture Questionnaire, as it gives anopportunity to share your family's unique beliefs and culture. This information is used to incorporate every child'sdiverse background in the classroom through books, activitiesand group discussions.

fWe encourage you to check out the resource boards at yourcenter. Each location offers a Parent Resource Board, whereyou will find local resources and agencies available to thecommunity. We also regularly share information and resourcesfrom community groups on our website and social media sites.As always, please reach out with any questions, suggestions orconcerns. We are so excited for you to join our grō childcareacademy family!*grō childcare academy reserves the right to changeexisting policies and procedures or introduce new policies and procedures at any time

Table of Contents Your Child’s First Day! About our ProgramsEducational Philosophy Teachers & Team MembersInterns & VolunteersAmericans with Disabilities ActHome Language PolicyProcare Application Procare Unique Code, Kiosk, & Authorized Pick-Ups Educational Programs Infants Toddlers Preschool and PreK/GSRPCurriculumAssessments School Age & Summer Breaks Parent-Teacher Conferences Transitioning to a New ClassroomTypical Daily ScheduleChild Care and HealthHealth at GroNutritionMenus Infant Bottles ClothingPersonal BelongingsPositive GuidanceBiting Diapering and Potty TrainingRest TimeHand Washing

Table of Contents Illnesses, Medical Forms, and Allergies Temporary Exclusion Sanitizing Contagious DiseasesIllness ChartMedications & Topical Nonprescription Medical RecordsAllergies Safety and SecuritySecurity, Locks, and Cameras Destruction of PropertyChildren’s RecordsMandated Reporting RequirementsCustody Agreements Drop-Off Policy (by 10am)Late PickupsEmergencies and Crisis Response Child Accidents & Incident ReportsProcedures Parent Communication and Concerns EnrollmentChild RecordsHoliday ClosuresProfessional DevelopmentPayment PoliciesDHS SubsidyNondiscrimination Withdrawals Termination of Services Regulatory Agencies & Licensing Notebook Drinking Water SafetyParent Code of ConductIllness Chart

Your Child’s First Day!New environments can be exciting and scary! Please plan tospend a few extra minutes at drop-off during your child’s firstweek of school. Our nurturing team members have trained onhow to make the transition as smooth and seamless aspossible. Separation anxiety is natural. Within days or weeks,your child will develop a routine and feel comfortable in theirnew classroom. We will make every effort to create a welcoming environmentfor you and your child. We believe parent to teachercommunication is a key part of your child’s success and weencourage you to maintain open communication with theteam members in your child’s classroom. If your family wouldlike to visit our center prior to the first day of enrollment, togive everybody an opportunity to meet and become better acquainted, we encourage that! Please reach out ahead oftime so we can accommodate your visit.If you have a concern, we encourage you to first reach out toyour Lead Teacher or Director, preferably through ProCare. Thisensures that we can set aside dedicated time to discuss thesituation thoughtfully and avoid distractions that can occurduring pick-up and drop-off. We want to create a space where concerns can be addressed directly and professionally, withoutrelying on the input of others who may not fully understandthe context.The next page has alist of items to bringfor your child!Back to Table of Contents

Your Child’s First Day!What to Bring:Please be sure you provide the school with the following on adaily basis (See Personal Belongings Section for more details):• At least 2 changes of clothing (including socks and booties)• Diapers and wipes, if your school is not participating in theCuties program• Diaper Cream (labeled with their name)• Enough prepared and labeled formula or breast milk (Parents need to label with child’s name and date each day)• Sweaters and/or jackets to accommodate indoor/outdoortemperature changes• Appropriate footwear for the age of the child. Rest Time:• If your child is sleeping in a crib: unweighted sleep sack• If your child is sleeping on a mat/cot: blanket, small pillow andpillowcaseAll items must be labeled with the child’s first and lastname. Back to Table of ContentsIt’s completely normal for both kids and parents to feel alittle nervous on the first day. A quick, confident goodbyehelps your child feel secure and eases the transition. Trustthat our caring team will support them through the day—and feel free to message on ProCare and check in if youneed a little peace of mind!

About our ProgramsEducational PhilosophyAt grō childcare academy, our approach centers around"whole child development," which goes beyond academics toinclude social, emotional, and physical growth. We believe thateach child is an individual with a distinct personality,temperament, and capacity for learning. We aim to nurturechildren into active, creative contributors to their communities,ultimately enhancing the overall health and prosperity ofsociety. By focusing on whole child development, we strive tounderstand each child's current abilities and comfort levels,helping them grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively.We believe that children thrive when they feel loved,nourished, and secure. We are committed to providing a safeand caring environment where every child feels valued andsupported. Equally important are healthy meals that fuel theirgrowth, learning, and overall well-being. Our curriculum blends a research-based, nationally acclaimedprogram with our own activities and techniques tailored toconnect with children in our local areas. As children engagewith our curated curriculum, they naturally grow across allareas of development, including social-emotional, physical, language, and cognitive growth. For certain age groups, youwill receive detailed observations during our fall and springconferences, along with daily updates through the ProCareapp.If you ever feel that we need to know valuable informationabout your child, please communicate with your Lead teacheror Director. We are committed to providing an inclusiveenvironment for every child.Back to Table of Contents

Teachers & Team MembersChildren are precious and must receive care from adults whoare capable and caring--whose values enable them to beexcellent role models. All team members have cleared a background check andfingerprinting. The State of Michigan requires completion ofHealth & Safety Training for Licensed childcare Providers,Infant/Child/Adult CPR, First Aid, Protecting Infants: ReducingRisk of SIDS and Shaken Baby Syndrome, Infant Safe Sleep,several courses in creating a multicultural environment, andmore. Any staff or volunteer registered on either the Michigan StatePolice Sex Offender Registry or the Dru Sjodin National SexOffender Public Website is prohibited from having contactwith any child in care.In addition to the state requirements, new team memberscomplete an in-depth onboarding, where we can focus deeplyon how we can support children in our region. We conducttwo professional development days a year, where the center isclosed to focus facilitating development of our team.We look for team members who are nurturing, dedicated, andcommitted to the emotional needs of all the children in ourcenters. We truly believe “happy childhoods last a lifetime.”Back to Table of Contents

Interns & VolunteersWe are proud to partner with local colleges and universities toencourage the growth of our early childhood educators. Ateam member supervises all interns and volunteers to ensure the proper care of the children. In addition, each intern andvolunteer is vetted through the PSOR (Public Sex OffenderRegistry) system. Interns and volunteers do not count as part of our child-to-staff ratio.Americans with Disabilities Act We review each child’s needs on a case-by-case basis andmake reasonable accommodations for any child who cansafely participate in a group care environment. Please discussyour child’s needs with the Director before you enroll or upondisablement. An ADA Special Needs Packet needs to becompleted, which will help our team determine if we canenroll your child. Our policy is to accept children whenever possible, in compliance with the Americans with DisabilitiesAct (ADA), its regulations, and any other applicable local, state,or federal laws pertaining to the provision of services toindividuals with disabilities. The ADA packet can be foundunder FAQ on our website or talking to your Enrollment Specialist.We want to provide the best possible care for your child. If youhave additional information or documentation of your child’sneeds, please include these documents. If you have anyquestions or concerns regarding the enrollment or care of yourchild with special needs, please contact your director, ourleadership team, or the Disability Services Team at 1-800-633-1488 ext. 1440.Home Language PolicyWe value each child’s home language as an important part ofwho they are. Supporting children in using their homelanguage helps build confidence, strengthens learning, andfosters a deeper connection between home and school. Back to Table of Contents

We believe multilingualism is a strength, and we arecommitted to creating a learning environment that reflectsand respects our families’ diverse backgrounds.To support home language development, our classrooms:Encourage children to speak and express themselves intheir home language during play and activitiesInclude bilingual books, labels, and materials wheneverpossibleIncorporate songs, stories, and games from a variety ofculturesUse visuals, gestures, and hands-on experiences to supportdual language learnersWelcome families to share cultural traditions, read stories,or sing songs in their home languageWhile our team may not include native speakers of everylanguage, we are committed to learning key phrases andusing inclusive practices. Children may hear responses inEnglish, but we will always strive to acknowledge and honortheir home language. We also offer resources and materials tohelp families continue developing their child’s language skillsat home.ProCare ApplicationWe utilize ProCare Parent Engagement, a free and securemobile application, to share each child’s daily information withparents in real time. This innovative app, available on iOS andAndroid devices, empowers families to stay connected withtheir kids throughout the day by receiving notifications, reminders, photos, and more right from their smartphones ortablets. During the enrollment process, you will receive aninvitation to ProCare.Staying connected with your child throughout the day greatlybenefits their growth and development. This communicationalso allows parents to reinforce learning, discuss the child’sexperiences, and support socio-emotional development. Mostimportantly, consistent connection enables parents and team members to work together to nurture the whole child.Back to Table of Contents

ProCare Unique Code, Kiosk, & Authorized Pick-UpsSafety is one of our values at grō childcare academy.Maintaining a secure and safe environment for the familiesand team members is critical. Your unique ProCare code isconfidential and should not be shared with anyone. Sharingyour unique code is a violation of grō childcare academypolicies. If you have a spouse or another authorized pick-up,they will receive their own unique code. Near the entrance of the facility, there will be an iPad kiosk. Atdrop-off and pick-up, please enter your unique code into thekiosk to sign your child in and out, and ensure you completethe signature portion as well. On arrival, we ask that youpersonally drop off your child inside their classroom. This allowsfor a consistent routine for your child and face-to-face withyour child’s teachers.Information regarding Authorized Pick-Up & New Pick-UpPeople:An authorized pick-up is someone, like a grandparent, whowill regularly pick up your child. To add an authorized pick-up, please notify the Director through ProCare, email, or awritten request. They will need to provide a valid ID. Thisprocess can take up to a week.For one-time pick-ups, it’s not necessary to add them as anauthorized pick-up. To keep our buildings, secure aspossible, we want to refrain from adding unnecessarypeople. Instead, communicate this directly with theDirector via ProCare or in person so we can arrange accessto the building and ensure they can sign your child outproperly. They need to be 18+ years old and have valid ID. Back to Table of Contents

Back to Table of ContentsEducational ProgramsInfantsWe understand that our littlest ones need a safe and lovingenvironment to welcome them each day. Our program isdesigned to be nurturing and developmentally appropriate forinfants 6 weeks and older, encouraging growth through dailyactivities that support physical, cognitive, and emotionaldevelopment as well as social interaction.Parents can stay connected through the ProCare app, whichprovides updates throughout the day on your infant's activitiesincluding diaper changes and feedings.Daily activities for infants include:Tummy time and physical exercisesSensory exploration through age-appropriate activitiesGroup interactions for social developmentOne-on-one time to enhance communication skillsWeather permitting, outdoor play to promote gross motordevelopmentAll items must be labeled with the child’s first and lastname. Infant belongings (soiled clothing, used/unused bottles,etc.) must be taken home nightly and laundered or sanitized.Infants are fed, changed, and placed in a crib to sleep ondemand. They are also held while being bottle-fed and areplaced in their cribs only to sleep. They are removed from thecrib for playing and nurturing during their waking hours. You are welcome to breastfeed your infant at any time. There isa designated space where you may sit and do so comfortably.Infants will be fed formula or breast milk in accordance withparent/guardian instructions. Nothing else (i.e., juice, water,cereal, medication) will be fed to an infant in their bottlewithout a physician’s note and prior discussion with parents.

Toddlers (This includes classrooms for ages up to 3 years old)Every toddler is a unique individual with their own interestsand learning style. Our toddler classrooms nurture and supporteach child's growth across all areas of development, providingengaging sensory experiences in a warm, inclusive, and lovingenvironment.As infants transition to toddler classrooms, they will begintransitions from napping in cribs to on cots or mats as well aseating at the table versus a highchair. These all happen at thechild’s own pace. Our teachers provide many outlets forcreative expression, including games, songs, movement, andart, which help your child build skills and confidence. Byencouraging child-directed play, we ensure your child developsat his or her own pace. Sharing, cooperating, and taking turnsall teach your child the importance of being part of a group. Your toddler’s daily activities include:Whole group activities and discussions that promote socialskillsSmall group instruction including planning and recall timesFree play with specific areas for dramatic play, scienceexploration, reading, block areas, language andcommunication, and sensory exploration.Interactive play to encourage social skills and friendshipsHands on activities that promote creativityMonthly themes with daily activities and familyengagementRegular communication using the ProCare appDaily outdoor play encouraging gross motor developmentBack to Table of Contents

Preschool and PreKYour child will move from the toddler classrooms to Preschoolthen PreK (also could be a GSRP classroom if your center hasone). PreK/GSRP is typically the last step before your child’s formaleducation and we are committed to preparing yourpreschooler for that experience. To facilitate that transition, wepromote structure in the classroom while incorporatingessential daily activities for your child’s development. Weencourage our teachers to create a folder for kindergartenassessments.Daily activities in Prekindergarten include:Small and large group activities to encourage socialdevelopmentActivities that promote communication skills and literacyFree play to encourage social play and independenceDaily outdoor play for gross motor developmentSensory experiences and activitiesDaily communication using the ProCare appCurriculumOur curriculum blends a research-based, nationally acclaimedprogram with age-appropriate activities tailored to connectwith children in our local areas. As children engage with ourcurated curriculum, they naturally grow across all areas ofdevelopment, including social-emotional, physical, language,and cognitive growth. The curriculum often aligns withseasonal themes and holidays.Back to Table of Contents

Assessments All centers use a variety of tools to monitor and support yourchild’s development including assessments, observations, andportfolios. Our centers use assessments to help us supportyour child’s education and growth.Our team members use these methods to assess eachindividual child in their current developmental stage. Thisconstant observation enables our teachers to accuratelycommunicate with parents about their child’s development.School Age & Summer BreaksAll centers offer various levels of school age care and summerprogram. Please speak directly with your Director regardingavailability and programming.Summer program enrollment is subject to change and is on ayear-by-year basis, which requires re-enrollment for eachsummer program or school yearEarly Learning Check-In (Parent-Teacher Conferences)Typically, we hold early learning check-ins, (these may also beknown as meet the parent/teacher nights), twice a year. Theseconferences allow for an in-person conversation betweenparents and teachers to discuss assessments, development,and to answer any questions caregivers or parents may have.Your center will send out communication, typically throughProCare, with specific information and any sign-up required.Transitioning to a New ClassroomWhen we consider a transition from one class to the next, welook at your child’s developmental and maturity levels, as wellas space availability in other classrooms. We have designed ourprocess to get your entire family involved during a transition.This improves your child’s adjustment to the new space,teachers, and classmates.Back to Table of Contents

You will receive information as the time comes for your child toprepare to transition into a new classroom. Your child willspend time visiting the new classrooms, getting acquaintedwith new teachers and the environment before they officiallytransition.Days and Hours of Operation*Note, certain holidays may affect these days and hours.Holidays are listed below in the handbook. Monday 6:00 am – 6:00 pmTuesday 6:00 am – 6:00 pmWednesday 6:00 am – 6:00 pmThursday 6:00 am – 6:00 pmFriday 6:00 am – 6:00 pmTypical Daily Schedule*Schedules vary based on room & age. Outdoor play willdepend on the weather. The schedule shown below is for Preschooler/PreK, ages 3 to 5years. Our preschool curriculum offers children experienceswhich emphasize emotional and social development as well asthe development of cognitive, language, physical, sensoryperception, spatial ability, creative expression, and self-awareness. Children will be introduced to each week’s lesson plansthrough songs, rhymes, books, large group and small groupactivities. Our curriculum helps children to build friendships asthey learn to communicate with each other as their languageskills develop. Through developmentally appropriate activities,our preschool curriculum encourages growth and explorationand social emotional development. Preschoolers will haveengaging, age-appropriate activities that involve their fivesenses and the world around them. Preschool Lesson plans will be posted in the classroom eachweek and will be shared with families via ProCare on Friday forthe following week. Back to Table of Contents

Child Care and HealthGrow at grōGrow at grō is an initiative at grō childcare academy designedto promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being ofchildren and team members. The program focuses onfostering lifelong wellness through a variety of activities,resources, and habits that support healthy development. It isimportant that children are healthy in body, mind, and soul—ready to grow, learn, and thrive.Key components our Grow at grō initiative, are:Healthy Habits: Teaching children essential practices liketeeth brushing, hand washing, and nutritious eating.Physical Activity: Incorporating movement into dailyroutines, including outdoor play, gross motor activities, andyoga sessions led by trained professionals. Our yogapractice does not have religious affiliation and is meant toinspire movement and emotion regulation.Mental Wellness and Brain Development: One way we dothis is through our partnership with The Literacy Bus, whichvisits the centers and gives children a creative outlet,chance to explore literature, and take home a book. TheLiteracy Bus brings access to books that spark curiosity andenhance cognitive growth, helping children developlanguage, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.Wellness Education: Providing children and families withtools and information to encourage a balanced, healthylifestyle.Safe Environments: Using plant-based and dye-freeproducts wherever possible. We focus heavily on child-safecleaning products to reduce exposure to harmfulchemicals. You can find the list of our cleaning products onour website using the link below.Grow at grō, embodies our company’s values of safety andfacilitating development, ensuring every child has theopportunity to thrive in a nurturing, healthy environment. Formore information, please visit: https://grochildcare.com/health/Back to Table of Contents

NutritionEach center provides breakfast, lunch and two snacks daily forevery child. We strive to provide nutritious meals that childrenenjoy eating! When creating our menu, ensuring a properbalanced diet is essential to provide the nutrition and energythat children need to grow and develop.Our menu follows Child and Adult Care Food Program ()Guidelines for food preparation and menu planning. Children 1-2 years receive whole milk. Children 2-12 years receive 1% milk. If you want your child to drink an alternative milk, parents areresponsible for providing. It must be labeled with child’s firstand last name and is only good for one week. Parents musttake it home at the end of the week or it will be discarded.Shelf stable individual serving sizes are an alternative option.Food Safety Guidelines To ensure the health and safety of all children, our facilityfollows Michigan childcare Licensing food safety requirements.All potentially hazardous foods are cooked to the followingminimum internal temperatures:Poultry: 165°FGround meats (e.g., beef, pork): 155°FSeafood, whole cuts of meat, and eggs: 145°FReheated leftovers: 165°FCold foods are held at or below 41°F to prevent bacterialgrowth. All perishable items prepared and held on-site are labeled with the preparation date and must beused or discarded within 7 days, with the preparation day counted as Day 1.We take these measures seriously to protect the health ofevery child in our care.Back to Table of Contents

A Typical Day Consists of:Breakfast will consist of a combination of a whole grain,fruit, protein, and fluid milk.Lunch will consist of a whole grain, protein, vegetable, fruit,and fluid milk.Snacks contain combinations of whole grain options with aprotein, fruit, or vegetable.If your child has a food allergy, we substitute meal items fornutritionally equivalent food. If your child requires a special diet or anything different fromthe recommended foods of the USDA that we are unable toaccommodate, you will be responsible for providing this. We do our best to avoid serving any food with artificial dyes.Our menus do not include any food with artificial dyes. Whilewe work hard to find alternatives, there may be time during aseasonal activity or birthday treat where this may vary. Weencourage you to find treats that do not include artificial dyes. We incorporate education about healthy food and food choicesin our daily programs. This includes balancing healthycarbohydrates, proteins, fruits, and vegetables. We serve freshfruits and vegetables whenever seasonally available. Ourmonthly newsletter contains tips and recipes for encouraginghealthy eating for our little ones.If you have any questions or concerns or want moreinformation about healthy kid friendly foods, please visit ourwebsite https://grochildcare.com/nutrition/Back to Table of ContentsMenusThe weekly menus are posted inside each building. Anysubstitutions will be updated on the posted menu.

Infant Bottles We require parents to provide clean, ready-to-feed bottles ofbreast milk or formula in a same-day supply. Extra supplies ofbreast milk or formula must be provided by the parent inpremade bottles. Team members cannot mix formula bottlesand cannot add cereal to bottles. Parents must ensure that all bottles will be labeled with thechild’s first and last name, date, and contents. Bottles are warmed by being placed in a bottle warmer. PerLicensing rules, they are good for up to one hour (formula) ortwo hours (breastmilk). Please do not leave bottles in thecenter overnight. If they are left, their contents will bediscarded.ClothingWe want to be sure your child has fun while playing andlearning at grō childcare academy! A full day can includeactivities like singing, painting, playing both indoors and out, dancing, and eating, we recommend easy-fitting,comfortable, and washable clothes. Please provide a complete set of extra clothes, including socks,for your child. For an infant, it is in the best interest to provide 2complete sets of extra clothes. In addition, we request an extrasweatshirt be kept at the center as well. Clothing must belabeled with your child’s first and last name. Please rememberto check periodically to make sure it fits and is seasonallyappropriate.Shoes are required for all walking children. Shoes must berubber-soled and closed-toe with a closed heel or heel strap.Flip-flops and shoes with wheels are not appropriate in our environment. Back to Table of Contents

In cold weather, provide appropriate clothing, includingmittens, hats, sweaters, socks, warm outerwear, and waterprooffootwear. During the winter months, you are welcome to keepsnow gear at the center. If you need snow gear, we receive somany donations. Please never hesitate to reach out.We cannot assume responsibility for lost, stained, soiled, ortorn clothing. Please be sure to label all clothing, shoes, andouterwear with your child’s first and last name.Personal BelongingsYour child will be provided with developmentally and age-appropriate toys every day. Because children often findcomfort in special objects, your child may bring a smallblanket, a special soft toy, or a stuffed animal for rest time. Yourchild’s blanket and stuffed animal will be stored in their cubbyand the blanket will be laundered at least one time per week.Bringing a treasured object to the center can create tensionbetween children. We ask that you do not let your child bringtoys from home as personal storage space is limited. If a child does bring a special toy, they need to put it in their cubby orbackpack and will be allowed to bring it out during parts of theday. We cannot assume responsibility for any lost or damagedpersonal belongings.Back to Table of Contents

Positive GuidanceAn important part of what children learn in their early years ishow to interact with others and what behaviors areappropriate in different situations. Our teachers are trained totake a proactive and preventive approach to guidance thatreinforces appropriate behaviors rather than focusing onipropriate behaviors. To do this, our teachers are trained to usevarious techniques including redirection, praise, and activesupervision.By creating an atmosphere of positive guidance, we find thatmost ipropriate behaviors are avoided. However, in somesituations and as a last resort, a child may be guided or redirected to another activity for the benefit of that child andthe rest of the children. The child is allowed to return to thegroup activity when he or she feels ready to do so. This strategy is not used with infants or toddlers. In accordancewith our state childcare licensing regulations, our team neveruses corporal punishment.We welcome families as partners in teaching children aboutsocially appropriate behaviors. As your child’s most influentialteacher, we may occasionally ask you to help work through inappropriate behavior with us. We understand these issuesare sensitive and many different parenting styles are reflectedamong our families. We also ask that, while on our grounds,you refrain from using any form of guidance that is notconsistent with our center’s positive guidance approach orindividual state childcare licensing regulations.Please note: Any team member who witnesses any form ofphysical or corporal punishment, even if administered by afamily member, is required by law to report his or herobservations to the appropriate local authorities.BitingDuring early childhood, children are sensory learners and oftenexplore using their mouths. In addition, children at an early agedo not have fully developed language skills. Back to Table of Contents

This can lead children to bite as a way of communicatingneeds.We realize that biting can be a big concern and one of thelargest challenges we face at these ages. We strive to minimizethe behavior as much as possible. Our team members are trained to recognize triggers and how to prevent and decreaseincidents. If your child bites or is bitten, you and the parent(s)of the other child involved receive an incident report via ProCare. The identity of both children is kept confidential.On the Parent Resources of our website, you can find ourpolicy on Biting and Biting Resources. If you have any concernsregarding a biting incident involving your child, please talk toyour child’s Lead Teacher or your Director.Diapering and Potty TrainingUntil your child is developmentally ready for potty training, weprovide regular diaper changes throughout the day. Diapersare checked hourly and changed promptly if soiled, with aminimum change every two hours, even if dry. Diaperingprocedures are posted in the classrooms, and changes arelogged in the ProCare app. The Cuties Care All Inclusive Diapering Product SupplyProgram may be used in your school. If your school does notparticipate in the Cuties program, families whose childrenwear diapers are required to provide diapers and wipes toaccommodate the child’s needs and replenish all items, asneeded. You will also receive a message through ProCarewhen more diapers are needed. If you prefer to use alternativediapers with a cloth or disposable insert, please discuss withDirector. When your child shows signs of potty-training readiness, weuse positive guidance and encouragement to support thismilestone. Please let us know if you are beginning potty training at home. We encourage open communicationbetween you and our team members to ensure consistencyand success.Back to Table of Contents

Learning to use a toilet is a gradual process that takes placeover a period of time as a child matures physically andemotionally. Successful toilet learning depends upon thephysical, cognitive, and language development of the child.For example, for a child to be ready for toilet learning must:• Be aware of bowel and bladder fullness.• Have the muscle development to control elimination.• Have the language and physical skills to signal the need• Have the large and small motor skills to get to the toilet ontime, remove clothing, and then to actually use the toilet.• Be willing to participate.Children show readiness to begin toilet learning when theyrecognize their diaper needs to be changed. At this point, achild may be ready to learn and be able to control his or herbowels and bladder. Beginning the toilet learning process tooearly will cause frustration for children. Toilet learning isrecommended for children between the ages of 2 and 3 yearsold.A child’s cues and mannerisms initiate toilet learning. Thesemay include verbal requests, gestures of pulling down pants,leading the caregiver to the bathroom, squirming in place, andpointing gestures.We will be sensitive to these cues by asking the child to usethe toilet, assisting the child on scheduled visits to thebathroom when they are most likely to need to use the toilet,giving frequent verbal reminders during the day, postingpictures of sequenced potty routines, and communicatingwith you to establish consistency between the school andhome.This growth period is a natural progression of independence.Toileting accidents, which will happen frequently beforechildren master this complex task, are treated respectfully. Youmust bring at least three full changes of clothes, includingunderwear, pants, shirts, socks, and an extra pair of shoes. If thechild has an accident, team members, using gloves, will assistin changing the child’s clothes. Back to Table of Contents

For health and safety reasons, soiled clothing will not be washedor rinsed by the school. All soiled clothing will be placed in asealed plastic bag and returned to you for pick-up at the end ofthe day.Children will be assisted, as needed, when using the bathroom.Children will flush the toilet and be assisted with washing theirhands with soap and water. All efforts by the child will bepositively acknowledged and encouragedRest TimeAll children are offered a rest time throughout the day. Childrenunder 18 months of age will be permitted to sleep on-demand.Outside of the infant classrooms, children typically nap after they eat lunch.Once your child has reached the stage where they do not sleep,they will be able to rest quietly while other children sleep. Duringthis time, your child will be given quiet activities.Children under 1 year of age will sleep in cribs with tight fittingsheets. All team members are trained in safe sleep. Infants areplaced in the crib on their back. Children over 1 may sleep in acrib with a blanket and once developmentally ready, willtransition to sleeping on cots/mats.Each child’s cot/mat is covered with a crib sheet provided by thecenter. Nap items—including the sheet, blanket, and optionalpillow—are stored in individual nap bags kept in your child’scubby. These items are laundered on-site at least once per week.Families are welcome to provide their child’s own rest-time small(throw) blanket. If you don’t have one, we’re happy to supply it.You may also choose to send a small child-size (travel) pillowwith a pillowcase—this is completely optional, as not all childrenuse one. Pillows and pillowcases will be kept in your child’s napbag, and pillowcases will also be laundered weekly on-site.If you prefer to launder your child’s blanket at home, you'rewelcome to do so—just don’t forget to send it back the next day!Back to Table of Contents

Hand WashingIt is important to teach hand washing at an early age. Perlicensing regulations, your child will be required to wash handsbefore eating, after bathroom visits, when returning from outside, and at any other appropriate time. Handwashing isour number one tool against illness; we encourage you tohave them wash their hands upon drop-off and pick-up.Illnesses, Medical Forms, and AllergiesChildren may become sick during the day or show signs orsymptoms of illness prior to arrival. If you keep your child athome, please notify your center on ProCare by 9:00 am. If yourchild becomes ill while at the center and we think it is betterfor him or her to be home rather than in contact with otherchildren, we’ll call and ask you to pick your child up no morethan two hours later.In the event of a serious accident or illness, an ambulance willbe called. To ensure your child’s safety, your EnrollmentAgreement provides a record of names, addresses, and phone numbers of the people you have authorized to pick upyour child. Back to Table of Contents

We ask you to keep this information current and supply namesand phone numbers of your family doctor and preferredhospital.Temporary ExclusionTo reduce the spread of illness and maintain the health of allchildren at the center, we may temporarily exclude your childfrom attending the center. Please refer to the following section for information on the types of illnesses and conditionsfor return to the center. If you have any questions or needmore information on a specific illness, please reach out to the Director.We will ask that your child remain away from the center if heor she has an illness or symptom that prevents participation inroutine daily program activities, including outdoor activities or if your child has an illness that requires moreindividual care than our team members can provide withoutcompromising the health, safety, and activities of the other children.SanitizingWe use a combination of professional cleaning and dedicatedteam members to maintain a safe and hygienic environment.Throughout the day, the team members follow our 3-step sanitizing policy and other cleaning protocols ensuring that allsurfaces, play areas, and toys are regularly disinfected.As an additional measure, we employ the use of a sanitizinggun on a weekly basis. This advanced sanitization tool allows usto reach even the most challenging areas, providing an extralayer of protection against germs and viruses. The sanitizinggun is part of our comprehensive strategy to uphold thehighest standards of cleanliness, offering peace of mind toboth parents and caregivers. We utilize a hospital grade, pHneutral effervescent tablet that dissolves easily in ordinary tapwater and becomes a multi-purpose, EPA registereddisinfecting and sanitizing solution. Back to Table of Contents

Although this tablet is created specifically to use at childcarecenters, our policy states that we do not use until the end ofthe day or on a Friday to allow maximum drying time.We believe that a clean and sanitized environment not onlypromotes the health of the children but also creates a spacewhere they can thrive, learn, and play comfortably. Our commitment to maintaining these rigorous cleanliness andsanitization procedures reflects our dedication to the well-being of the children in our care.If you would like to learn more about our practices, please visitour website under the health page.Contagious DiseasesWe value every child’s health and preventing the spread ofinfectious diseases is an important part of quality childcare. Westrive to monitor the health and well-being of all children in our care. If a child has a certain communicable disease, statechildcare licensing regulations, and/or our health and safetypolicies could require:Sending the child homeDocumented evaluation and treatment by the child’shealth care providerNotification of the families of other children in our centerand staff membersNotification of local health departmentWe will keep you informed of any instances of contagiousdiseases affecting children who may have had direct exposureat the center and report such diseases to the local health authorities where required by law. Communicable diseases willbe posted in the center.Illness ChartThe Illness chart can be found at the end of the FamilyHandbook. This illness chart applies to children, teammembers, and volunteers.Back to Table of Contents

Medications & Topical NonprescriptionAny medication administered to a child in our care must firsthave a written permission signed by the child’s guardianbefore being given.1.For prescription medication and nonprescriptionmedication (i.e. cough syrup, fever reducer, teethingmedication, Epi-Pen, inhaler) parents must complete aBCAL-1243 Medication Form. This can be found in theParent Resource section of our website.A separate form is required for each medication for eachchild.All sections under the header “to be completed byparent” must be completed (i.e. no blank sections).If a nonprescription medication indicates that aphysician should be consulted for dosage, writteninstructions must be obtained from the physicianbefore administering the medication. This must beattached to the BCAL-1243 medication form. Writteninstructions from the physician must be obtained everythree (3) months to ensure the dosage is still applicablefor the child’s age and weight.An interruption in medication will require a new form.The form must be reviewed by the parent every three (3)months if the medication is ongoing.2.For topical nonprescription (i.e. sunscreen, toothpaste, bugspray, diaper cream) parents must complete the TopicalMedication Authorization Form. This is usually included inthe enrollment packet and can be found under the ParentResource section of our website.To administer a medication, we must follow the exactdirections on a bottle of medication. We cannot administerover the counter medication to a child 2 & under without awritten prescription regarding dosage.Medication must be handed directly to a teacher and stored inthe office at the center. Please do not leave medication in yourchild’s bag. If medication is left in a bag, we will remove andplace it in the office until a parent can pick it up.Back to Table of Contents

Medical RecordsUpon enrollment, you must provide a completed HealthAppraisal signed by a physician and an updated immunizationrecord.Please bring an updated health appraisal and updatedimmunization record after each of your child’s well childappointments.AllergiesIf your child has allergies, you need to inform your Directorduring the enrollment process. Your Director will gladly workwith you to accommodate your child. There are some additional forms you will need to complete as we have severalpolicies and procedures in place to keep the children in ourcare safe.Due to severe peanut allergies, some of our centers haveadopted a “no-peanut” policy. Your Director can inform you ifyour center has this policy. If your child has severe allergies that may require a medicalresponse (such as the use of an EpiPen) additional forms andtraining are required upon enrollment.1.The Medication Permission Form is designed to understandproper dosage and medication name. 2.The Authorization Form provides any necessary informationto ensure proper prevention measure and an effectiveresponse to serious allergic reactions. 3.Prescription/Doctors Note: Parents shall provide a copy ofany other physician’s orders and the procedural guidelinesrelating to the prevention and treatment of the child’sallergy.4. Release and Waiver of Liability for AdministeringEmergency Treatment of Children with Severe AllergiesBack to Table of Contents

1.Prior to the child’s first day of attendance (or prior to thechild’s return to the childcare center after the child’s allergyis diagnosed), the parent/guardian(s) must train theDirector, Assistant Director and the child’s teacher(s) on thenature of the child’s allergy and when/how to administertreatment for allergic reaction. All members of the training and parents completed theAllergy Treatment Training Acknowledgement.2.Medication needs to be provided and kept up to date bythe parents. Depending on the severity of the allergy, etc.,the medication is kept in the Classroom’s Emergency Bagor the office.Safety and SecuritySecurity, Locks, and CamerasWe take the safety of our facilities very seriously. All entrancesat our centers are locked and require a key code for entrance.Please refer to the section on ProCare, Kiosk, and UniqueCodes.Our goal is to provide a safe and secure environment for thechildren and team at grō childcare academy, and we believethat the use of audio and video surveillance is one of the manytools that can help us achieve this goal. All centers havecameras that allow us to monitor classrooms, hallways,outdoor play, and other common areas. In the case of an investigation, our team may revisit an event with camerafootage. By enrolling at grō childcare academy, you consent tothe recording process. All footage and data is kept confidentialand retained for a limited period of time.The audio and video surveillance will be in compliance with allapplicable state and federal laws and regulations, includingthe childcare Organizations Act. We understand that some individuals may have concerns about audio and videosurveillance. If you have any questions or concerns about thispolicy, please do not hesitate to contact our team via Hello@GroChildCare.com . Back to Table of Contents

Destruction of PropertyWe strive to create a safe and welcoming environment wherechildren can learn, play, and grow. To maintain thisenvironment, we teach children the importance of caring fortheir surroundings, including classroom materials, furniture,and other property.While we understand that accidents can happen during playand exploration, intentional destruction of property is notacceptable. In such cases, the following policies will apply:Accidental Damage: If property is accidentally damaged,we view it as a learning opportunity and will work with thechild to understand how to better care for items in thefuture. No fees will typically be charged for accidentaldamage.Intentional Destruction: If a child intentionally destroysproperty, the family may be held responsible for repair orreplacement costs. Families will receive a written noticeexplaining the situation and the associated costs.Supporting Positive Behaviors: Our team will work withchildren to teach respect for property through age-appropriate guidance, modeling, and redirection. In casesof repeated incidents, a meeting with the family may bescheduled to develop strategies for improvement.We appreciate your cooperation and support in helping usteach children the value of respect and responsibility. Together,we can maintain an environment that is safe, joyful, andenriching for everyone.Children’s RecordsAll children’s records are kept confidential and are onlyaccessed by team members and/or parents or guardians.Parents may access or update any child’s information byrequesting access from the Director.If you withdraw from childcare, we will maintain child recordfor as long as required by state licensing requirements.Back to Table of Contents

Mandated Reporting RequirementsIt is our duty to protect the children in our care. In accordancewith the law, all team members are required to report anysuspicion of abuse or neglect of a child. Failure to do so resultsin punishment under law. The law also prohibits interferencewith a person reporting suspicion of abuse or neglect of achild. If you suspect the abuse or neglect of a child or adult,please call the central hotline at 855-444-3911.Custody AgreementsWe understand that joint custody can be complicated. Tominimize any confusion, we ask that parents with joint custodyof a child or children provide the center with the court orderedcustody agreement. This information is kept confidential and isused for the safety of your child. Please discuss further detailsof your custody agreements with your Director. While wewelcome in-person dialogue, it is preferable that you follow upwith the explanation of your situation in a letter or e-mail so itcan be kept on file.Drop-Off Policy (by 10am)To help us maintain a consistent and nurturing environment,we ask that all children be dropped off by 10:00 AM each day.Timely arrivals support smooth transitions, effective planning,and participation in important learning activities.If your child will be absent or arriving after 10:00 AM, pleasenotify us as soon as possible using the Procare app. For latearrivals, families must notify the Director by 9:00 AM the sameday via Procare or by calling the center directly. This helps usplan staffing, meals, and classroom routines.If late drop-offs are needed on a regular basis, please speakwith the Director to discuss options and ensure we canaccommodate your family’s needs. Please note: Failure tonotify the Director of a late drop-off by 9:00 AM may result inyour child not being able to attend that day.Back to Table of Contents

We appreciate your partnership in supporting a structured andsafe environment for all children. If you have any questions,don’t hesitate to reach out to your center’s Director.Late PickupsWe understand that there may be times it is difficult to pickyour child up on time. Please arrange for another authorizedadult to pick up your child. If a late pick-up is unavoidable,you must contact us immediately through ProCare. A charge of$1/minute will be posted to your account for late pick-ups. Ifyour child is not picked up by normal closing time, we will take the following actions:Call you and all emergency contacts listed on your childinformation record.If after 30 minutes, you or an authorized person cannot bereached, our Director or teacher in charge will contact theauthorities and Child Protection Services.Please note: our team members may never transport a childfrom the center for any reason.Emergencies and Crisis ResponseOur team makes every effort to be prepared in case of anemergency. Emergency procedures are posted at every exit ofthe building and are practiced regularly.In the event of an evacuation or emergency, you will becontacted via ProCare. Please see your center’s individualemergency plans for specific location details for evacuationroutes.Child Accidents & Incident ReportsWe make every effort to ensure your child’s safety throughtraining, supervision of our team members, and maintenanceof the facilities. However, if your child does have an accident, you will receive an incident report via ProCare.Back to Table of Contents

If your child has an emergency, you and/or your emergencycontacts will be contacted via phone and then ProCare if youcan’t be reached. In the event of an emergency, your child will receive any necessary treatment until you can be reached.If you have any concerns about incident reports, we welcomeyou to discuss these with your Lead Teacher and/or Director.We want to support all our families and never want you to feellike you do not understand what is happening in ourclassrooms.ProceduresParent Communication and ConcernsWe value open and honest communication with our families.We understand that questions or concerns may arise,especially regarding incidents such as bumps, falls, or othertypical occurrences that are part of early childhooddevelopment. To ensure these concerns are addressedthoughtfully and effectively, we ask that parents follow theseguidelines:Preferred Communication Channels: If you have a concernabout an incident or any aspect of your child's care, weencourage you to reach out directly to your child’s LeadTeacher or the Center Director. The best way tocommunicate is through ProCare, which allows us todedicate the necessary time to listening to your concernsand provide clarity. Please let us know that you haveconcerns so we can find time to have a more in-depthdiscussion.Timing of Discussions: To ensure we can focus fully on yourconcerns; we kindly ask that larger conversations takeplace outside of busy drop-off and pick-up times. Thisallows us to avoid distractions and ensures your concernsare given the attention they deserve.Social Media Policy: While we understand the use of socialmedia as a platform for sharing experiences, we believe it isnot the most effective way to address specific concerns. Back to Table of Contents

Discussing concerns directly with our team allows us to resolveissues quickly, maintain privacy, and ensure accurate context isunderstood by all parties.Our Commitment: We are committed to fostering apartnership with families built on trust and mutual respect.Your feedback is important to us, and we want to worktogether to provide the best possible care for your child.By maintaining open and direct communication, we canensure a positive and supportive environment for all childrenand families.Refer to Parent Code of Conduct for more information. EnrollmentUpon enrollment, you will receive an Enrollment Packetelectronically. Please pay close attention to your e-mail as it willhave instructions on what you are receiving and how tocomplete it. We welcome you to discuss any questions orconcerns with our Enrollment Department. Please do nothesitate to reach out to enroll@grochildcare.com. Your Enrollment Packet will include but not limited to: theParent/Handbook Acknowledgement, Child InformationRecord, Medication Permission, Topical OintmentAuthorization Form, and a Health Appraisal signed by yourchild’s physician or a signed immunization waiver if your childis 5-12 years old. There is a one-time fee upon initial enrollment.Summer program for school age has an additional enrollmentfee.Child RecordsWe are required annually to update child records. You willreceive this information from your center, and it must becompleted in a timely manner to keep your child’s enrollment at the center. Please pay attention to these requests andreturn documents as soon as possible. These are reviewedregularly by our State Licensing Consultants. Back to Table of Contents

Holiday ClosuresAll locations will be closed for the following holidays andprofessional development days. Each year, there is an annualcalendar with the specific dates listed that can be found on theParent Resource section of our website. If the holiday falls on aweekend, we may close either the day before or after, whichwill be communicated in advance. Regular tuition fees apply during Holiday/PD closures so that we can pay our teammembers.New Years DayMemorial DayIndependence Day, Labor DayThanksgivingFriday after ThanksgivingChristmas Eve Christmas.Two Professional Development Days – Specific Dates Listed on Annual Calendar Professional DevelopmentOur team members complete 16 hours of ongoing professionaldevelopment. Training includes age-appropriate training forthe teacher’s specific rooms, additional health and safetytraining, nutrition and food service, and more. Teachers alsocomplete three hours of cultural competency courses.All centers are closed two days a year for company-wideProfessional Development Days, which will be listed on theannual calendar. These days are treated as holidays, andregular tuition fees apply during these closures. Yourcontinued support enables us to invest in our team’s growth,ensuring the highest quality of care and education for yourchildren.Back to Table of Contents

Tuition PoliciesTuition must be paid the week prior to attendance and mustbe paid online using the ProCare application. Parents arerequired to have automatic payments set up to avoid any late payments. A late/failed payment fee of $25 will be charged toaccounts for every late/failed payment occurrence.Tuition payments past due by two weeks will result insuspension or termination of services.Tuition is charged for the scheduled days a child is enrolled inwhether the child attends that day or not. Unless there is apermanent change in schedule with two weeks’ written notice,tuition will be charged. If there is a past due balance, additionaldays cannot be added to your child’s schedule.If the center must close for unexpected reasons, such as apower outage or staffing shortage, full tuition credits will beissued to parents with children scheduled for that day. Tuitionis required for holidays and professional development for thedays that the childcare is scheduled to be closed.Tuition rates are subject to an annual increase of up to 5% atthe start of September each year, with at least 60 days’ noticeprovided before the new rates take effect. However, inextraordinary circumstances, such as significant increases inoperational costs or regulatory changes, additional tuitionadjustments may be necessary. In such cases, families will be notified at least 30 days in advance, along with a detailedexplanation of the reasons for the adjustment.Tuition RatesTuition rates are provided on our Tuition and Fee Policy,included with Enrollment documents. These are sitespecific and you can get a copy anytime at your center,speaking with your Director, or using the contactinformation on the front page. Back to Table of Contents

DHS SubsidyWhile waiting for approval for subsidy, you are responsible foryour tuition payment. You will receive your tuitionreimbursement check once your approval letter has beenreceived and the first payment from DHHS is made.You are required to pay your tuition if your DHS subsidy lapses.You will be reimbursed once your DHS has been reapproved.Upon receiving your subsidy, you may need to sign a “Contractfor Care.” Please watch for any messages regarding this so wecan get it completed as soon as possible. If you have specific questions regarding the subsidy, pleasereach out to your Director. You can also reach out todhs@grochildcare.com and include your Director on the e-mail.Nondiscriminationgrō childcare academy does not discriminate based on aperson’s religion, color, race, gender, sexual orientation,nationality, age, or any other factors protected by law.WithdrawalsIf you wish to withdraw your child from care you must give awritten two-week notice to your Director prior to leaving care. Ifyour child leaves care without a two-week notice, you will stillbe charged two weeks of tuition.Termination of ServicesIt is our responsibility to ensure a high quality and safeenvironment for all children and families. Therefore, grōchildcare academy reserves the right to disenroll a child with orwithout notice as we see necessary and at our sole discretion.Back to Table of Contents

Regulatory Agencies & Licensing Notebook All grō childcare academy facilities are licensed by the state ofMichigan under the Bureau of Childcare Licensing. Our centersare subject to state and local health, fire and building agencies.Regulations and inspections pertain to staff qualifications, thefacility and playgrounds, nutrition, health and safety matters,record-keeping, and child-to-staff ratios.All center’s licensing notebooks are kept in the office at thecenter and is available upon request with the followinginformation: The licensing notebook contains all the licensinginspection and special investigation reports and relatedcorrective action plans for the last 5 years.The licensing notebook is available to parents duringregular business hours.Licensing inspection reports, special investigation reports,and corrective action plans from at least the past 3 yearsare available on the department’s childcare licensingwebsite at www.michigan.gov/michildcare.Drinking Water SafetyIn compliance with Michigan’s Filter First law, all of ourdrinking water comes from outlets equipped with certifiedlead-reducing filters. We maintain a Drinking WaterManagement Plan, replace filters regularly, and test waterevery two years to ensure safety. Families are welcome toreview our plan or results at any time, and you will be notified ifany issues ever arise.Back to Table of Contents

Parent Code of ConductWe are committed to providing a safe, nurturing, andrespectful environment for every child, family, and teammember. As part of our community, we ask that parents andguardians join us in building a kind, safe, and inclusiveenvironment for all children, families, and team members.Parent Expectations By enrolling your child(ren), you agree to support the followingvalues:Lead with KindnessSpeak respectfully to and about others—includingchildren, team members, and fellow families.Avoid language or actions that are hurtful, threatening,or inappropriate.Communicate with Care & ProfessionalismIf you have a question or concern, please reach outdirectly to your Director or Assistant Director in a private,respectful way (rather than in front of children or otherfamilies).Use the proper channels (ProCare, email, phone, or in-person meetings) to stay in touch.Give us a chance to help. If you ever have a concern,please bring it to us directly so we can work together tofind a solution—before turning to social media or publicforums. We care deeply and want the chance to makethings right.Support a Positive EnvironmentRefrain from gossip, negativity, or sharing frustrations infront of children.Support our shared values by encouraging your child tofollow the rules ands treat others with kindness andrespect.Back to Table of Contents

Follow Our Shared Agreements and Policies andProceduresPlease stick to drop-off/pick-up times, illness guidelines,and other policies found in the Family Handbook.Notify the center if your contact or emergencyinformation changes.Honor Each Other’s PrivacyWe ask all families to keep sensitive information aboutother children, families, and team members private.Be a Role ModelShow patience, responsibility, and teamwork—we’re alllearning and growing together. When Issues Arise We believe in working things out with honesty and kindness. Ifa situation does come up that goes against this Code ofConduct, we may respond with: A respectful reminder or written notice A parent meeting with our leadership team Temporary or permanent dismissal from the program Questions or Concerns? If something isn’t sitting right, please come to us first. We'rehere to listen, problem-solve, and make things better—together. If you feel you are not receiving assistance from your Director,please reach out to hello@grochildcare.com Back to Table of Contents

Illness Chart* ILLNESS CHART PART 1Abdominal pain which is persistent and continues two or more hoursBoil, abscess or cellulitis CONDITIONS FOR RETURN Symptomsare no longer presentChicken Pox/Varicella Conjunctivitis or Pink Eye accompanied by a fever, behavioral changes, or a recommendation for exclusion from health department Coughing (severe) including Croup COVID-19 Cytomegalovirus accompanied by fever Diarrhea including other conditions with diarrhea symptoms Diarrheaif bloody or caused by CryptosporidiumDiphtheriaE-coli (0157:H7)Fever ≥ 101.4°F accompanied by signs or symptoms of illness or behavior change (We will follow state licensing and health department requirements if fever is defined differently) Fifth Disease (Human Parvovirus) accompanied by fever or behavior change or the child has an underlying blood disorder, such as sickle cell disease, or compromised immune system; children with these conditions may shed large amounts of virus and may appear ill Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease (Coxsackievirus) accompanied by mouth ulcers or blisters and no control of drooling or fever or behavior change Head Lice or other infestation Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Herpes Simplex accompanied by mouth ulcers or blisters and no control of drooling or fever or behavior change Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV/AIDS) Impetigo Symptoms are no longer present Lesion(s) are covered and drainage is contained in covering/bandage A sores have dried and crusted, usually after six days Fever and/or behavior changes are no longer present; symptoms of red, watery eyes are resolved Symptoms are no longer present Return to be confirmed by center director with consideration of current health guidance and/or requirements When fever has been resolved Diaper Children: Stool is contained by the diaper, even if the stools remain loose. “Potty-trained” Children: No longer have accidents or stool frequency returns to normal, even if stools remain loose Clearance by Health Care Provider Clearance by Health Care Provider Clearance required by Health Care Provider and Public Health Authority Fever is below 101.4°F without aid of medication. Child has stopped drooling and does not haveexposed open sores All signs of lice (or other infestations) are absent for a period of 24 hours Clearance by Health Care Provider Clearance by Health Care Provider; any skin lesions are dry or completely covered by a bandage Child has stopped drooling; does not have exposed open sores Clearance by Health Care Provider; any skin lesions are dry or completely covered by a bandage Antibiotic medication has been appropriately administered for 24 hours; sores can be kept clean and dry and are completely covered Illness Chart Back to Table of Contents

Pneumoniaif accompanied by fever, severe coughing, rapidbreathing, or behavior change Ringworm (Tinea) Roseola (Human Herpesvirus 6) accompanied by fever RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus)Influenza/Flu (Including H1N1 and H5N1)accompanied with feverLyme Disease (or other tick-borne diseases) accompanied by fever Measles Meningitis (bacterial or viral) Mononucleosis accompanied by fever and/or behavior change MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) Mumps Pertussis (whooping cough) Rubella Salmonella Scabies Shigella Strep Throat (or other streptococcal infection) Thrush Tuberculosis VomitingSingle incident or accompanied by fever, green or bloodyvomit, no urine output in eight hours, recent history ofhead injury or looks/acts very ill Symptoms are no longer present *Illness chart applies to all Gro childcare team members, enrolled children, and volunteers.Signs of fever resolved for 24 hours without aid ofmedication.Fever is no longer present Clearance by Health Care Provider Clearance by Health Care Provider Fever is no longer present Clearance by Health Care Provider Clearance by Health Care Provider Clearance by Health Care Provider Once treatment has been started When fever is no longer present Fever no longer present for 24 hours (unmedicated), symptom free or Doctors note stating they can return to care. Clearance by Health Care Provider Clearance by Health Care Provider Once treatment has been completed Clearance by Health Care Provider Antibiotic medication has been appropriately administered for 24 hours; fever no longer present Symptoms are no longer presentClearance by Health Care Provider Symptoms are no longer present ILLNESS CHART part 2CONDITIONS FOR RETURN Back to Table of Contents

Thank you!If you have any further questions, please contact us!(616) 577-6887 526 Maynard NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504G R O C H I L D C A R E . C O MContact Information hello@grochildcare.com