Head Lice Policy

If a child is found to have head lice, the child must remain at home until treatment has been completed and there are no live lice or eggs present before returning to the centre.

Medication Policy

The administration of medication at the centre is regulated by Child Care Licensing Regulations. These procedures are in place to protect the safety of children, families, and staff.

Early childhood educators are not qualified to determine when medications should be administered. Therefore, only medications prescribed by a physician will be administered at the centre.

Parents must complete a Medication Authorization Form before staff can administer any medication.

The centre will not administer over-the-counter medications, including Tylenol, Gravol, or similar medications.

Medication Procedures

1. All medications will be stored in a locked container, inaccessible to children. Medications requiring refrigeration will be stored in a locked container within the refrigerator.
2. Parents must inform staff of any possible side effects or reactions a medication may cause (for example: hives, drowsiness, or diarrhea).
3. Parents must inform staff if their child has recently received immunizations, as the child may feel unwell or experience soreness.
4. A Medication Authorization Form must be completed and signed by the parent or guardian before medication is administered.
5. A Medical Care Plan will be completed for children requiring ongoing medication.
6. Medication must be provided in its original container with the prescription label attached.
7. The label must clearly include:

• Child’s name
• Name of medication
• Dosage instructions
• Route of administration (oral, nasal, eye, etc.)
• Physician’s name
• Storage instructions (for example: shake well, refrigerate)
• Date when medication administration should end.

Medications sent to the centre in a bottle, cup, or container that does not meet these requirements will not be administered. The medication will be securely stored and returned to the parent at the end of the day.

Parents must also ensure that EpiPens kept at the centre are not expired and provide a replacement before the expiration date.

Hygiene and Sanitation Policy

At Newleaf Learning & Childcare Centre, maintaining a clean and sanitary environment is essential for protecting the health and well-being of the children and staff. Proper hygiene practices help prevent the spread of germs and illness within the centre.

Our educators actively teach children about good hygiene habits while also modelling these practices throughout the day. By working together, we help children develop lifelong habits that support health and well-being.

Hygiene Practices

To maintain a healthy environment, the following hygiene practices are followed:

1. Handwashing

Children’s hands are washed upon arrival at the centre, before and after meals and snacks, and after diapering or using the toilet. Educators also practice proper handwashing procedures throughout the day.

2. Toy Cleaning

Toys and learning materials are cleaned and sanitized on a daily basis, with deeper and more thorough cleaning completed on a weekly basis or as needed.

3. Cleaning of Bathrooms and Equipment

Washrooms, equipment, furniture, and frequently touched surfaces are cleaned and sanitized daily to maintain a hygienic environment.

4. Individual Bedding

Each child is provided with their own mat, bedding, and blanket. Bedding is washed weekly or sooner if required to ensure cleanliness.

5. Cleaning Schedules

A daily and weekly cleaning schedule is posted and maintained to ensure all sanitation procedures are completed regularly and consistently.

6. Diapering Area Sanitation

The diaper change table is sanitized after each use, and educators wear disposable gloves while changing diapers to maintain proper hygiene standards.

At Newleaf Learning & Childcare Centre, maintaining a clean and healthy environment is a shared responsibility. Through consistent sanitation practices and teaching children good hygiene habits, we help create a safe and healthy space for everyone in our community.