Enrollment

I am delighted to welcome children aged 6 weeks to 5 years at Helping Hands Childcare. As a State of California licensed provider, I can care for up to eight children, including my own under 10. If you're considering enrolling your child, please feel free to Contact Us for more details. The enrollment process is as follows:

#1 First Contact

When a family first reaches out, we usually connect via phone or email. We briefly discuss your childcare needs, your child's date of birth (to maintain proper ratios), and any initial questions you may have, including rates. I'm happy to share rates over the phone, and you can also find them posted [here].

To provide you with an accurate rate and availability, please share the following

- full name & date of birth of children and parent/legal guardians

- number of days and which days needed
- drop-off and pick-up times for each day (consider commute and potential traffic)

#2 Interview

Interviews are intentionally scheduled for a one-hour block during non-childcare hours. This prioritizes children's safety and ensures you with undivided attention. Scheduling interviews after business hours allows me to keep my focus on the daycare children when they are in my care and gather basic information from potential families before their introduction to the daycare environment during operating hours. During the interview, I'll provide a tour of the daycare space, explain my program, and discuss policies. Feel free to ask questions—it's an opportunity for you to learn about my program and me as a childcare provider, determining if it's a good fit for you!

All potential child enrollees and parents/guardians must attend the interview. This allows key decision-makers and your children to become familiar with me and the space for added comfort. If essential attendees can't make it, we'll reschedule to ensure everyone is present.

NOTE: the importance of having all significant decision-makers present at the interview is critical. Past experiences have shown that when only one adult attends and expresses enthusiasm, later disagreements may arise with others who are less excited about the childcare arrangement. This can create a stressful situation for both me and your family. To avoid such challenges, ensure that the child, both parents/guardians, and any other influential decision-makers attend the interview.

#3 Read the Contract & Policies

Following a successful interview, you will receive an email containing the enrollment packet (Parent Packet) which will include copies of the contract, policy handbook, and necessary forms for your review. While I provide an overview of most policies during the interview, it is crucial that you read the contract and policies in their entirety. This ensures you can make an informed decision on whether my daycare aligns with your family's needs. It is imperative to read, understand, and agree with all policies to establish a successful and harmonious relationship. The Parent Packet and list of required supplies can also be found below.

#4 Play Date

You have the option to schedule a complimentary 30-45 minute play date session designed for one parent and any potential enrollee children. It provides an opportunity for your child to reacquaint with me, fostering increased comfort. Your child can also meet other daycare children and explore the environment during regular attendance hours. For you, the adult, it's a chance to observe my interactions with the children and gauge how well your child adapts to the new environment.

Ensuring comfort is a priority, not only for you as a parent but also for your child within the environment, with me and with the other children. It's equally crucial that the other daycare children feel at ease with your child, creating an overall positive fit for everyone.

#5 Provide Requirements

Before assuming the responsibility of caring for your child, it is essential I receive all required forms, supplies, and payments. While I provide many necessities for your child, some supplies are required to be provided from home. Once your Parent Packet is complete, and you've gathered necessary supplies, you can schedule a meeting where we will review your forms and items, and if everything is in order, your child will be ready to join our group!

Here is a list of everything you will need:

Parent Packet

Fill Out/Return

Contract Agreement
Contracted Schedule Form
Enrollment Form
“About Me” Child Profile
Identification and Emergency Information (LIC 700)
A copy if the child’s immunization record (yellow card or printout)
Notification of Parents’ Rights (LIC 995A)
Individual Infant Sleeping Plan (LIC 9227) for infants up to 12 months of age
Parent Notification of Additional Children in Care (LIC 9150)
Consent for Emergency Medical Treatment (LIC 627)
Authorization for the Application of Topical Products
Permission Agreement

Read & Keep

Rates and Fees Sheet
HHCC Calendar
Child Care Resume
Caregiver Background Check Process (LIC 995E)
Consumer Awareness Information (LIC 9212)
Risks & Effects of Lead Exposure (PUB 515)
When Parents Separate If Parents Are not Together

Fees

Payment for the first week of care
Security fee equivalent to 2 week's of care
Holding fee (only if not starting within 2 weeks)

Supplies

Infants/Toddlers (0-2 Years)

2 bottles & nipples
3 complete changes of clothing
frozen breast milk or formula (a minimum of one week’s supply must be on hand at all times)
Security item (pacifier, lovey)
1 sleep sack for children under 12 months
1 Package of diapers (replaced when necessary)
1 package of wet wipes (replaced when necessary)

Preschool Age (2-5 Years)

2 complete changes of clothing
A sweater or jacket
1 package of wet wipes (replaced when necessary)
1 package of diapers or training pants (if non-toilet trained)
Good walking/running shoes (NO Crocs or open toes)

Provide clothing for our diverse weather.

A complete change of clothing for warm weather consists of:

Light jacket/sweater
Short sleeved shirt/onesie
Lightweight pants/shorts
Socks
Hat appropriate for weather
Underwear (if toilet trained)

A complete change of clothing for cold weather consists of:

Heavy & warm jacket/sweater
Long sleeved shirt/onesie
Warm pants
Socks
Hat/beanie appropriate for cold weather
Underwear (if toilet trained)