Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Small Steps – Big Strides
- Do you accept childcare assistance subsidies?
- Yes, we do accept Title XX through all counties in Ohio. Depending on certain circumstances and how other subsidies operate, we may be open to partnering with other private childcare assistance programs. Children’s Services and Child Care Aware are other programs we have worked with in the past, for example.
- How often is tuition billed?
- Tuition is billed weekly – every Friday for the following week of care. Tuition rates are based on enrollment and not attendance. Depending on when your child starts with us, they will be granted either one or two week’s worth of vacation days that can be applied to your account so you will not be charged for absences.
- What does the daily schedule look like?
- While each classroom and age group’s schedules vary, daily schedules for each group are consistent. After morning breakfast or a.m. snack, is when the bulk of the curriculum and learning based activities occur. Mix in some gross motor and outdoor play, and you’ve got a fun-filled morning!
- What supplies should I bring for my child?
- Required and recommended supplies vary by age; however, most children will need a labeled water bottle and a set of extra clothes. Children who are not potty-trained will need to bring diapers/pull-ups and wipes, and those who nap may bring a blanket and comfort item.
- Does my preschooler need to be potty trained?
- Your child does not need to be potty-trained to enroll at Small Steps. We have no potty-training requirements or age restrictions, and work on training in all age groups, if necessary. However, not all of our classrooms have changing tables (infant, toddler, and 3-year-old rooms do). Regardless, we still still accommodate.
- How often will my child be changed/go potty?
- Children’s diapers/pull-ups will be checked and/or changed at least every 2 hours, and also when noticeably soiled. Those who are in the process of becoming potty-trained will be encouraged to use the bathroom at least every 2 hours, or more frequently if requested.
- How do teachers communicate with parents?
- Small Steps uses the Playground app and software for enrollment, attendance, payments, and communication. Teachers will post information about our child’s day, including naps and mealtimes, will enter daily activities, and can message families. Families are welcome to use the messaging feature in the app at any time.
- What is your discipline policy?
- “Time out” will never be used at our centers. We use separation and redirection to mitigate negative behaviors. Children will be removed from an object or area of the room and will be given a positive alternative object or task. Children may also use classroom “soft spaces” or visit the front office to decompress.
- How often are classrooms cleaned?
- Classroom supplies are cleaned daily – often during naptime. Toys and surfaces will be cleaned whenever visibly soiled. At the end of the day, teachers will disinfect classrooms as part of their closing tasks. Additionally, every evening, our custodian deep-cleans all classrooms, bathrooms, and common areas.
- When are you closed for holidays?
- Small Steps only closes for the six major holidays and for Christmas Eve. The six major holidays are New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Our Munroe Falls center may close on days after holidays (like the Friday after Thanksgiving) if low attendance is anticipated.
