Question 1

What does my child do at Extended Day?

Accepted Answer

Children will be able to participate in a wide range of activities that teachers plan depending on their age group. These activities include arts and crafts, card and board games, outdoor play, gym games, free choice, club meetings, and much more.

Question 2

What time do I pick up my child on a regular day?

Accepted Answer

Caregivers should pick up their child from their designated pick-up areas prior to 5:45 p.m. If parents arrive after 5:45 p.m., the program will charge a late fee.

Question 3

How do teachers manage behavioral issues?

Accepted Answer

If a child exhibits inappropriate behavior or fails to respond to a teacher’s direction, the following steps will be taken:
The child will be given verbal warnings by a teacher that he/she has one more chance to behave as requested.  As part of these requests, the teacher will fully explain the reason for the request.  If the instance is a dispute between two children, teachers will model effective conflict resolution skills.
If a child fails to honor a teacher’s request, the child will be removed from the activity for further conversation.  In the event that there has been a disagreement between two children, the children will be given an opportunity to peacefully resolve the matter.  If this fails, the children will be separated from one another until they are able to converse with a teacher who will assist in resolving the conflict.
If negative behaviors are not ended, children may need teacher assistance in choosing a different space or activity to facilitate productive engagement.
If the behavior is such that it inflicts harm on others, it will be stopped immediately.  A child may be isolated to create a safer environment for himself and others, a parent may be called, etc. 
In no case, will a child be subjected to abuse or neglect, cruel, severe, or corporal punishments, punishment which subject a child to ridicule or humiliation, denial of food, rest, outdoor time or bathroom facilities.

Question 4

What if my child has allergies?

Accepted Answer

It is very important that we be aware of your child's allergies. Especially critical are bee sting and severe food allergies. We must be provided with the proper medications and protocol for handling allergic reactions. Space is provided on the Parent/Child Information Form, but in the case of a severe allergy (or other medical condition), a conference with the director is indicated and the formulation of a health care plan may be necessary.

Question 5

What's your medication policy?

Accepted Answer

Medications, prescription or non-prescription, will not be administered without written permission of the parent and the signature of a health care provider. Prescriptions must be labeled by the pharmacy. Non-prescription medications must come in their original containers. In other words, if your child needs to have a Extended Day teacher administer medication, we must receive documentation specifying the name of your child, the name of the medication, the dosage, directions for administration and your signature. Forms are available on the website and at your request.
 
Children are not allowed to be in possession of medication at Ruffin Ridley Extended Day Program. The only exception to this will be made for asthmatic children who, with written parental permission, may self-administer their medication. It is important to alert us by telephone that your child has medication that we will need to administer. Medications will be stored in areas off limits to children and should arrive at the program in containers with childproof caps.
 
We maintain a written record of the administration of medication including the data contained in your note with the addition of the name of the staff member who administered the drug. Unused medications will be disposed of or returned to parents.

Question 6

What's the schedule for early release days?

Accepted Answer

On the school's early release days, Extended Day begins earlier to accomodate the change in schedule. Caregivers should follow the usual pick-up procedure and pick up children no later than 5:45pm on early release days.

Question 7

What happens on School Snow Days or Snowy Days?

Accepted Answer

Snow Days (When School Is Canceled) / Snowy Days (Stormy Days When School Is in Session)
 
RREDP does not operate in the event of a snowstorm or other weather-related emergency. The Public Schools of Brookline informs parents of school cancellations and delays via an automated system. WBZ AM 1030 is also a good source of information for school cancellations. 
 
In the event of an intense snowstorm that begins after the start of school, the Superintendent may issue a directive that all after school activities are canceled. If this happens, you will receive a computer generated call from his office.

You or the designee named on your Parent/Child Information Form must come to pick up your child as soon as you are able, but no later than 4PM. RREDP staff will remain in the building until all children are safely in the care of a previously authorized caretaker.

Question 8

What happens on school vacation days?

Accepted Answer

As our calendar outlines, RREDP will operate on some days even though the school does not. Children may attend the program on these days from 8:00 A.M. to 5:45 P.M.
Parents must register for and pay in advance for childcare on the days of full care when school is not in session holidays. Parents must also sign up their children approximately three weeks in advance for February and April Vacations so staffing and appropriate activities can be planned.

Children not signed up before the deadlines expire will not be able to attend on longer and school vacation and other full day programs. Fees for these programs are not included in the regular annual tuition. The rates will be announced at the time of registration.

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