ECFE Participant Handbook 2021-2022 | Page 6

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Separation
When a child shows symptoms of distress by crying upon separation or after separation , we want to work with you . Separating from a parent is a skill that children learn over time and through repetition . ECFE staff will be happy to work with you and your child to master this important skill . If your child cries for more than 10-15 minutes , we will ask you to return to the class and soothe your child . Parents are encouraged to bring a child ’ s “ lovey ” or blanket to help ease the transition . We will do everything to help foster a trusting relationship with your child . Please always say goodbye and do not sneak out of class .
Diapering
Parents are encouraged to use the changing tables located in the bathrooms . If a child needs a change of clothes , parents must take the child into the bathroom . Parents will be called in the Parenting room to take their child to the bathroom during class .

S N A C K S

A district-provided snack such as Cheerios , graham crackers or goldfish crackers will be provided to classes that are two hours or more . Water will be available and offered for ALL classes with an open-cup option . No snacks may be brought from home . No outside donations are accepted .
If your child must eat during class time , please take them into the hall .
Snack time provides a valuable learning experience for the children as they experiment with taste , smell , color , texture , taking turns , making choices and helping themselves . Children are encouraged to throw their own cup and napkin away when they are finished with their snack .
Some classes may have parents sign up to bring snacks to the parent group . Parent snack may be store bought or homemade . All food and drink for the adults should be brought to the Parent Education Room . For the safety of the children , we ask that you not bring any personal drinks or food into the children ’ s classroom or leave on the hallway coat rack / shelves .
If your child is bottle-fed , parents must mix and feed your infant . Staff are not permitted to mix or feed bottles to children .
Birthdays in ECFE
If you wish to celebrate your child ’ s birthday in class , we want to make your child feel special . We will sing to your child , give them a birthday crown and let them pick a free book from our birthday basket . Due to COVID-19 , birthday treats of

11 any kind are not allowed — edible or not .

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