What do children do at the center?
The center is a cheerful and inviting place where children grow and develop in a relaxed and positive atmosphere. Children who attend the UW-P Child Care Center & Preschool are involved in a variety of activities. Art, music, dramatic play, outdoor activities, and other learning experiences are a part of the center's daily routine.

Children are assigned to a classroom with other children of similar age and development ability. Classrooms are designed to function individually, with activities geared towards the specific age group they serve. Children play outside on the center's large playground on a daily basis, weather permitting. Nutritious mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks are served, as well as a lunch that is provided by each student's parent(s).

After 12:00 p.m., children nap and/or rest according to state licensing requirements. After nap, planned developmental activities are conducted throughout the afternoon.

How does the center's programming work?
The UW-P Child Care Center & Preschool offers a child-oriented program. The children are provided with a variety of "hands-on" learning activities.

How is discipline handled at the center?
The center has a carefully planned policy of discipline which provides positive guidance, redirection, and the setting of clear limits. Practices are designed to help children develop self-esteem, self-control, and respect for others and for property.

How will I know how my child is doing?
As a parent, there will be times when you wish to know how your child is adjusting to the center. Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled during the fall and spring semesters. However, whenever you have a special concern regarding your child's progress, please feel free to arrange a mutually convenient time for you and your child's teacher(s) to meet. In the event that your child has special needs or problems that challenge their functioning in the program, he or she will be referred for screening. The state (Wisconsin Statutes, Subchapter V, Chapter 115) and federal (Education of the Handicapped Act as amended by PL 94-142 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973) laws require that schools identify these children.

What should my child wear to the center?
Please dress your child in durable, self-help clothing. Children at the center participate in a variety of active and "messy" activities. A sturdy pair of pants or jeans and a comfortable top that are easy to take off and put on will be most appropriate. Please do not send your child to the center in clothing which restricts their participation in activities. Dress-up clothes and shoes are likely to get soiled and worn.

The children play outside every day the weather permits. Be sure your child has appropriate outerwear. Boots, snow pants, scarves, and mittens are necessary for colder and snowy weather. Shoes must be available for your child every day he or she is at the center. Boots are not allowed in the classroom. Please label all of your child's belongings, to minimize confusion and/or loss of items.

All children are required to leave one complete change of clothing at the center at all times. This includes a shirt, pants, underwear, and socks. Children who wear diapers must also have an ample supply of disposable diapers and wipes.

How is potty training handled at the center?
The Child Care Center & Preschool does not recommend potty training before the age of 24 months. Research indicates that children under the age of two are not ready for potty training. All children entering the three year old program (3 years by September 1) must be potty trained. Center staff will assess situations when delays occur. The center has established criteria that must be met in order to consider a child potty trained. Assistance with potty training is given to children between the ages of two and three when readiness has been identified.

Do I have to pay for child care
even when my child is absent?
Yes, the center unfortunately cannot afford to hold your child's place if you do not pay for it.

The UW-P Child Care Center & Preschool PARENT HANDBOOK - Word Doc