Why so many rules?
Our children are our most valuable treasures - leaving your child in someone else's care can be scary. Policies and procedures are in place in order to reassure all parents that I am focused on the best care for your children. I encourage any parents who have issues with any of my policies to discuss them with me.
What is the total number of children that you care for?
The State of Ohio allows me up to 6 children as a Type B Home. Because I will offer part time, there will not always be 6 children here at one time.
What is the caregiver to child ratio?
The ratio will never be more than 1:6, meaning that there will always be at least one caregiver for up to six children.
Are you CPR/First Aid certified?
I have completed all training required by the State of Ohio. I have received training and am certified in: Adult/Infant/Child CPR, First Aid, Communicable Disease, Child Abuse Prevention
What are the ages of children in care?
We cater from 6 weeks to 12 years
Do you have aides/helpers?
I do not currently have any full-time/part-time aides or helpers that are paid; however my husband and daughters are here throughout the day. They are also my backup caregivers to cover any emergencies or training that I may have to attend, so you will not be inconvenienced.
What are your hours?
I am open 24/7 that does not mean you can bring your child whenever you want you. Actual hours of care may be different for each child; the agreed upon hours of care provided for your child will be listed in your contract.
Do you care for children on a part-time basis?
Yes, part-time care is available as long as a current opening allows for this schedule without placing more than six children in my care; however, an attempt will be made to fill the empty hours/days/weeks.
What are your fees?
Current fees can be found under the fees link. Weekly rates are based on your arranged hours of care; if more hours are needed the fee will be adjusted. Payment is due on the Friday before each week of care. If payment is not presented by the scheduled Monday drop-off, care will not be provided until payment is made. For hourly care, payment is due on the date of service.
Payment is accepted in the form of cash, personal check or money order.
Why do I have to pre-pay?
I require everyone to pre-pay for scheduled care. It is necessary for me to shop for groceries and supplies prior to providing care (I usually do this preparation on the weekend).
Why is childcare so expensive?
If you just want a babysitter-someone to just "watch" the kids, I recommend you try to find a teenager, college student or homemaker who may be looking to make some extra cash.
I encourage you to compare my weekly rates with local daycare centers, and keep in mind the individual attention your little one will receive in family care.
Curriculum based themes every month
We have a monthly themed curriculum Sept thru May that is free of charge for 2-5 year olds. Over the summer we just review.
Can I hold or reserve space?
The only way to ensure an ongoing spot is to pay fees on time.
If care is to begin at a future date, (1 week or more from the enrollment date) an advance payment of $1/2 weekly rate will hold a position 4 weeks. If care has not begun then full weekly fee will be due. A position will not be held unless there is a signed contract, all required forms are filled out and returned, and fees are paid, including the $50.00 registration fee. These fees are non-refundable if enrollment is canceled, and it does not apply to the first week's payment.
What is a typical day like?
You can find our daily schedule on the site; the schedule is flexible and may vary depending on the needs of the children.
What does my child need?
Parents need to supply their child with a complete change of clothes, diapers, 1 pacifier, a comb or brush to fix hair after naps, and of course a stuffy for naps if they have one.
Do you have pets?
Our cats are Layden, Opie and Kasha, they are indoor cat only; they are used to having kids around. There litter box is not kept in the childcare areas.
Do you smoke?
No member of my household or any guest is aloud to smoke in the house; smoking is permitted on the premises at the side of the building, where no child will ever see anyone smoke and no one is allowed to smoke if the children are outside, this includes parents.
What is your vacation policy?
Parent/Guardian(s) are allowed up to one week of personal vacation per year. Please read Vacation policies in handbook. Notification is required in writing at least two weeks in advance.
What holidays are you closed?
We are not closed for any Holidays; Full tuition is due for any periods including holidays
What is your policy on accepting sick children?
Please read our policies in the handbook.
I can only care for children with mild cold-like symptoms (clear runny nose, slight cough, and no fever). If a child becomes ill during daycare hours, parents will be contacted immediately and should attempt remove their child within 1 hour of being notified. If parents are not available, the emergency contact person will then be notified. Once the child is removed from daycare due to illness, they may not return for a full 24-hour period, unless they are accompanied by a doctor's note.
*Note: This sickness policy applies to my family or myself as well. If I am unavailable due to illness, you will be notified by 6:00am. Payment is not required for days that I am closed due to illness.
How much notice is required for a child to leave your care?
After the two-week trial period, either party can terminate care with two weeks written notice. Payment for those two weeks will be accepted in lieu of notice.
Do you provide meals?
Breakfast, lunch and nutritious snacks are provided. View our sample menus.
If a child has special dietary needs substantiated by medical evaluation, I must be informed and given a doctor's note. I do welcome special menus, and will try to accommodate you as much as possible.
How are children fed?
The children are offered the food, not forced to eat. Children who choose not to eat will not be served additional meals until the next scheduled meal or snack.
Infants are held while being fed bottles since they still need that close, secure feeling. Bottles are never propped up to prevent choking.
Infants who can sit up on their own are fed in a high chair.
Toddlers and preschoolers sit at the large family table with booster seats if necessary.
Can I visit the center anytime that is convenient for me?
Yes, after you have enrolled your child, for parents who wish to see the facility I prefer to an interview in the evening or on weekends for the safety of the children who are enrolled. That way someone else is here to assist with children who here.
How long has the center been in business?
Cati’s House was opened in 1998
