ECE Lab School FAQs

Rain or shine, we go outside! To help your child stay comfortable and ready to explore, please send the following items labeled with their name:

Everyday Essentials

• Weather-appropriate jacket (light or heavy, depending on the season)
• Sun hat or warm beanie
• Closed-toe shoes (sturdy for climbing, running, and digging)
• Socks plus an extra pair
• A change of clothes to keep onsite
• Reusable water bottle

 

For Wet & Muddy Days

• Rain boots
• Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
• Waterproof pants or puddle suit (optional but awesome)
• Extra change of clothes (shirt, pants, underwear, socks)

 

For Cooler Weather

• Layered clothing (sweater, fleece, long-sleeves)
• Gloves or mittens
• Scarf or neck warmer (optional but cozy)

At the Early Childhood Education Lab School, we view transitions as opportunities for growth, connection, and trust-building. Whether a child is new to school or just moving across the hall, our goal is to help them feel safe, seen, and supported every step of the way. We do this by:

 

Building Relationships First

• Prioritizing connection before expectation.
  
• Greeting each child by name and offering consistent caregivers during the transition.
  
• Allowing time for bonding through play and one-on-one moments.

 

Preparing the Child (& Family)

• Offering visits before the full transition (e.g., stay-and-play or partial day).
  
• Creating simple social stories or photo books with pictures of the new room, teachers, and routine.
  
• Communicating clearly with families about what to expect and how they can support at home.
  

 

Using Predictable Routines

• Keeping daily rhythms consistent to help children feel secure.
  
• Using songs, visual schedules, or hand signals to cue what’s coming next.
  
• Keeping goodbye rituals short, warm, and consistent.

 

Following the Child’s Pace

• Allowing time for the child to observe before engaging.
  
• Not rushing separation—respect the child’s comfort level and build gradually if needed.
  
• Partnering with families to create a plan that’s flexible and responsive.
  

 

Acknowledge Feelings

• Validating emotions with empathy:
  
• Offering comfort items (stuffed animals, family photos) when helpful.
  

 

Supporting Peer Connections

• Encouraging buddy systems or small group play to help new children connect.
  
• Highlighting similarities

 

Reflecting & Revisiting

• Allowing space to revisit the transition through art, storytelling, or circle time.
  
• Reflecting as a team to support the children

We serve breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack. All meals are provided.

Our top priority is the well-being of every child, family, and staff member. We follow state licensing regulations, CSPP guidelines, and best practices to create a clean, safe, and nurturing environment.

 

Health & Hygiene

• Daily Health Checks - Staff greet each child and complete a visual wellness screening at drop-off.
• Handwashing - Children and staff wash hands frequently — upon arrival, before meals, after toileting, and after outdoor play.
• Cleaning & Disinfection - Toys, surfaces, and materials are cleaned and sanitized regularly using child-safe products. High-touch areas are disinfected daily.
• Toileting & Diapering - Staff follow sanitary procedures for diaper changes and toilet learning, respecting each child’s developmental stage

 

Illness Policy

To keep everyone healthy, we ask families to keep children home if they have:

• Fever of 100.4°F or higher
  
• Vomiting or diarrhea (within the past 24 hours)
  
• Persistent cough or difficulty breathing
  
• Rash with fever or unexplained cause
  
• Red or draining eyes
  
• Symptoms of contagious illness (e.g., flu, COVID, strep)
  

Children may return when:

• They are fever-free for 24 hours without medication
• Symptoms have improved
• A doctor clears them (if applicable)
  

 

Medication & Allergies

• Medications (including inhalers, EpiPens, or prescription creams) require a completed medication authorization form.
• Allergies are posted discreetly in all relevant areas. Staff are trained in how to prevent exposure and respond to allergic reactions.

 

Safety & Emergency Procedures

• Emergency Drills - We conduct regular fire, earthquake, and lockdown drills to ensure children and staff know what to do.
• Authorized Pick-Up - Only adults listed on a child’s emergency form may pick up, and ID must be shown if not recognized.
• Outdoor Safety - Staff monitor all outdoor play, checking the space and equipment daily for hazards.
• Accident Reports - Families are notified of all injuries, and reports are documented for both minor and major incidents.

 

Emotional Wellness & Behavior Support

• Responsive Relationships - We build trust through consistent, respectful caregiving.
• Guidance Strategies - We use redirection, problem-solving, and peaceful conflict resolution. No harsh discipline is used — ever.
• Mental Health Resources - We collaborate with families and specialists when emotional or behavioral needs arise. Referrals for support services are available upon request.

 

Wellness Practices

• Daily Outdoor Play - Children go outside every day, weather permitting. Fresh air and movement are vital for healthy development.
  
• Nutritious Meals & Snacks - We serve well-balanced, age-appropriate food that meets CSPP nutrition standards. We accommodate dietary needs and allergies with appropriate documentation from a licensed healthcare provider.
• Rest Time - All children are offered a quiet rest period each day. Cozy items from home are welcome!

Ages 3-4:

• 1 adult for every 8 children (1:8 ratio); 1 teacher for every 24 children
• In some cases, with additional support staff (e.g., assistants or aides), the ratio may be closer to 1:6.

 

Ages 2-3:

• 1 teacher for every 6 children (1:6 ratio)