Child Care Provider Orientation Handbook

Transcription

1 Iowa Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) Child Care Provider Orientation Handbook This handbook is designed for child care providers Dear Child Care and Education Professional: Welcome to Iowa Child Care Resource & Referral.

2 Dear Child Care and Education Professional: Welcome to Iowa Child Care Resource & Referral! Iowa Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agencies are community-based organizations that lend a helping hand to people who care for and about children. By providing resources, education and advocacy, CCR&R helps meet community needs for affordable and accessible early care and education. CCR&R provides a wide variety of services for: Early care and education professionals caring for babies through school aged children in a variety of programs Employers Community groups Policymakers We all know how important a child s early experiences are to his or her development. Children who are provided with quality early experiences by caring and responsive adults begin school ready to learn. School readiness is a significant factor in a child s success in school and then later in life as a productive citizen. Our goal at CCR&R is to support you as a child care and early education professional so that you can provide every child you care for with the quality experiences he or she needs. Because your needs as an early care and education professional are unique, we can provide guidance and technical assistance through education and training, by phone, in person, on the Internet and in other ways that are tailored to you rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. By working together we can improve the quality of early care and education in our communities and work to keep Iowa s promise that Every child, beginning at birth will be healthy and successful. 2

3 Table of Contents Introduction... 4 Contact Information... 5 Iowa Department of Human Services... 6 Child Development Home Registration Overview... 6 Child Care Consultants... 7 Iowa Department of Human Services... 8 Provider & Facility Requirements... 8 Iowa Department of Human Services Quick Reference Requirements for Child Development Home Categories... 9 Category A: Child Development Home How Many Children Can I Care For? Category B: Child Development Home How Many Children Can I Care For? Category C: Child Development Home How Many Children Can I Care For? We Help You Get Prepared We Help With Your Business Needs Protect Your Social Security Number Connect With Your Local Child Care Nurse Consultant Child Care Assistance (Subsidy) Provider Rates for Children Paid by State Subsidy How to Have Your Program Referred to Parents Join the Child & Adult Care Food Program Training Policies Minimum Training Requirements for Registered Child Development Homes ChildNet Training & Certification Iowa s Quality Rating System Glossary of Terms

4 Lending You a Helping Hand Introduction Child Care Resource & Referral offices (CCR&R) are located across Iowa to help people start-up new early care and education programs and help existing providers remain informed and continue to grow. Our specialized staff is available to provide individual consultation and group training sessions. You ll be informed Once you connect with our child care consultants and enroll with our services you will receive communications with regular updates about upcoming training and professional development opportunities. You ll get the straight scoop CCR&R staff members stay current on state requirements, rule changes and other news relating to the early care and education industry. We want to help you succeed with the Quality Rating System (QRS) and provide accurate information about things that affect you and your business. We talk to thousands of parents CCR&R Parent Specialists talk to thousands of parents annually; giving them the names of child care providers who have openings in their homes/centers in the area in which they re looking for care. To assure we re giving correct information, you must complete the enrollment process by returning a completed program information survey to your local CCR&R office. The information will be entered into the database so that it can be shared with parents. You must update your openings at a minimum of every three months. You ll be more confident We encourage you to participate in as many training opportunities as possible. You will not only learn many valuable tips, you will also increase your level of confidence. Training sessions allow you to network with other early care and education providers and expand your knowledge base. Your training certificates will help you market your program to parents. Providers sign up for training on the DHS Training Registry at Child Care Resource & Referral Staff is available to help set up an account on the training registry. 4

5 Contact Information Iowa CCR&R State Network Region 1 Mid-Sioux Opportunity, Inc Region 2 Exceptional Persons, Inc Region 3 West Central Community Action Region 4 Orchard Place Child Guidance Center Region 5 Community Action of Eastern Iowa

6 Iowa Department of Human Services Child Development Home Registration Overview To be a Child Development Home Contact the Department of Human Services (DHS) office in Des Moines for a packet by calling Review the DHS requirements outlined in the packet, complete the state registration application form, provide information or experience for the level you are applying for, and return it to the Des Moines DHS office. Registration requirements include a criminal record check, sexual offender registry check and a child abuse registry check on you, your assistant, your substitute, and any other members of your household 14 years of age or older. If your background check results are acceptable and you agree to comply with the rules and regulations of the State of Iowa, you will receive a registration certificate in approximately 6-8 weeks. If you need help filling out your registration application, contact your local CCR&R staff for assistance. Training is required You must complete a minimum number of training hours to comply with DHS registration requirements. During your first year of registration you will need to have twelve hours of training, two of those hours must be in the area of Health and Safety. You will also need current certification of Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse training and current certification in infant, child and adult CPR and First Aid (online CPR/First aid is not approved without onsite testing). The required trainings do not count towards the required 12 hours of continuing education training. At least 6 of the 12 required hours are required to be in a group sponsored setting. Inspection When you sign your registration application, you have committed to following the DHS registration requirements and you are certifying to DHS that you are meeting all the requirements of the DHS checklist. DHS will conduct unannounced spot checks to evaluate whether or not your program meets the minimum registration requirements. Be sure to ask to see identification before allowing anyone into your home. 6

7 Child Care Consultants Child Care Consultants can assist you with the process of state registration by offering the following services: Assistance in selecting the registration category that is right for you. Aid in setting up your business and environment for quality care. Providing you with the necessary tools to help you meet the state registration guidelines. On-going consultation and support through personal visits, phone, or to help you feel more confident. Support for ChildNet Certification Support for the Iowa Quality Rating System (QRS) For further assistance or to schedule a home visit, please contact Child Care Resource & Referral or visit us online at 7

8 Iowa Department of Human Services Provider & Facility Requirements Category Provider qualifications Facility requirements A B C 18 years old 3 reference letters 20 years old High school diploma or GED Meet one of: 2 yrs experience working directly with children in child care - OR - CDA or 2 or 4 yr degree in child care related field AND 1 yr of experience working directly with children in child care 21 years old High school diploma or GED Meet one of: 5 yrs experience working directly with children in child care - OR - CDA or 2 or 4 yr degree in child care related field AND 4 yrs of experience working directly with children in child care No smoking allowed Fire safety: Fire Extinguisher (2A10BC or higher on every child occupied level) Smoke detectors (every child occupied room and top of every stairwell) 35 sq ft of child space/child indoors 50 sq ft of child space/child outdoors Quiet area for sick children No smoking allowed Fire safety: Fire Extinguisher (2A10BC or higher on every child occupied level) Smoke detectors (every child occupied room and top of every stairwell) Two direct exits from main level In addition to inside stairway, a direct exit from child occupied basement or second story child care is not provided above 2 nd floor. 35 sq ft of child space/child indoors 50 sq ft of child space/child outdoors Quiet area for sick children No smoking allowed Fire safety: Fire Extinguisher (2A10BC or higher on every child occupied level) Smoke detectors (every child occupied room and top of every stairwell) Two direct exits from main level. In addition to inside stairway, a direct exit from child occupied basement or second story Child Care is not provided above 2 nd floor. 8

9 Iowa Department of Human Services Quick Reference Requirements for Child Development Home Categories Child Development Home A (8) Provider must be 18 yrs of age 3 reference letters are required from persons 18 years of age or older and cannot be from relatives 6 full time children at any one time plus 2 school age maximum of 4 children under age 2 3 of those 4 can be 18 months or younger 2 *school aged children limited to 2 hrs before school & 2 hrs after school Child Development Home B (12) Provider must be 20 yrs of age H.S. Diploma or GED 2 yrs of child related experience or 2 or 4 yr degree child related plus 1 yr experience 6 full-time children--plus 2 part-time--plus 4 school age maximum of 4 children under age 2 3 of those 4 can be 18 months or younger 4 *school aged children limited to 2 hrs before school & 2 hrs after school, school age children can attend all day when no school. part-time children limited to 180 hrs per month *IF MORE THAN 8 CHILDREN PRESENT FOR MORE THAN 2 HOURS-MUST HAVE A DHS APPROVED ASSISTANT (14 yrs or older) IN THE HOME WITH THE PRIMARY PROVIDER AT ALL TIMES Child Development Home C (16) Provider must be 21 yrs of age H.S. Diploma or GED 5 yrs of related experience or 2 or 4 yr college degree in childcare related field plus 4 yrs related experience 12 full-time children--plus 2 part-time--plus 2 school age Whenever 4 children under the age of 18 months are in care both providers must be present. If only one provider is present the number of children under 18 months is limited to 3. maximum of 2 *school aged children limited to 2 hrs before school & 2 hrs after school part-time children limited to 180 hrs per month 9

10 *IF MORE THAN 8 CHILDREN PRESENT-MUST HAVE A DHS APPROVED CO-PROVIDER (WHOM MEETS CATEGORY B REQUIREMENTS) MUST BE IN THE HOME WITH PRIMARY PROVIDER AT ALL TIMES* ALL OF THE ABOVE NUMBER LIMITS INCLUDE THE PROVIDER S OWN INFANTS, HOME SCHOOLED CHILDREN, AND PRESCHOOL CHILDREN UNTIL THEIR * FIRST DAY OF KINDERGARTEN. Category A: Child Development Home Iowa Department of Human Services No more than 6 full-time children at any one time Maximum of 4 children under the age of 2 years. *Of those 4 children under 24 months of age, no more than 3 may be 18 months or younger. No more than 2 additional school-age children who are not in care for more than: o 2 hours or less before school o 2 hours or less after school or o less than 2 hours on non-school days (See exception below) Exception: On days schools are closed due to emergencies such as inclement weather or physical plant failure, Child Development Home A providers may care for a maximum of 8 children, never to exceed the age limits. This exception does not apply on non-emergency no school days, such as in-service, conference, or vacation days. Definition of Age Groups Infant: a child between the ages of 0-24 months. Non-school-aged child (preschooler): a child who is 2 years old but not yet attending school. School-aged child: a child who is attending kindergarten or higher grade level. Your own child or foster care child who is not attending kindergarten or a higher grade or child care program outside the home all day, every day on a regular basis is counted in the total capacity of the program. Your own child or foster care child who is attending kindergarten or a higher grade or child care program outside of his or her home all day, every day on a regular basis in not counted in the total capacity of the program. *Note: If you are home-schooling your own children they are counted in the total capacity of non-school-aged children until they reach age

11 How Many Children Can I Care For? Child Development Home A You may care for up to 6 preschool children at any one time. You may also care for 2 additional school age children. These school age children may only be in your care for 2 hours at a time (before and after school). You may never have more than 8 children in your care. Child s Name Age Child s Name Age ************************************************************************************* Child Development Home A One Adult Category A Provider No more than 3 children under 18 months No more than 4 children may be under 24 months No more than 2 school age children present for 2 hours at a time (may not stay full time during summer or school breaks) No more than 6 preschool age children present at any one time Your infant, preschool and home schooled children are counted in your numbers 11

12 Category B: Child Development Home Iowa Department of Human Services When there are more than 8 children present for more than 2 hours, a DHS-approved assistant (aged 14 or older) must be present. No more than 12 children at any one time. Of the 12, no more than 6 preschool children at any one time. Maximum of 4 children under the age of 2 years *Of those 4 children under 24 months of age, no more than 3 may be 18 months or younger. No more than 4 additional children who meet the school-age definition. Up to two children may also be present who are using part-time hours. (See part-time hours definition) Definition of Age Groups Infant: a child between the ages of 0-24 months. Non-school-aged child (preschooler): a child who is 2 years old but not yet attending school. School-aged child: a child who is attending kindergarten or higher grade level. Your own child or foster care child who is not attending kindergarten or a higher grade or child care program outside the home all day, every day on a regular basis is counted in the total capacity of the program. Your own child or foster care child who is attending kindergarten or a higher grade or child care program outside of his or her home all day, every day on a regular basis in not counted in the total capacity of the program. *Note: If you are home-schooling your own children they are counted in the total capacity of non-school-aged children until they reach age 13. Definition of Part-Time Hours It is only necessary to use part-time hours if the number of children in care exceeds the allowable capacity. You may have up to 2 additional preschool and/or school-age children in care who are using part-time hours. You can NEVER exceed the maximum number of children under 24 months of age in care. You may use a maximum of 180 hours of part-time care per month, and must keep a record of the number of part-time hours used. Exception: On days schools are closed due to emergencies such as inclement weather or physical plant failure, Child Development Home B providers may care for a maximum of 12 children. Whenever more than 8 children are present at any one time for more than 2 hours, the provider s assistant must be present. 12

13 How Many Children Can I Care For? Child Development Home B You may care for up to 6 preschool and 2 part time children who do not exceed 180 hours a month. You may also care for 4 school age children for 2 hours before and/or after school (see exceptions for non-school days). Whenever you have more than 8 children present for more than 2 hours you must have a DHS approved assistant. You may never have more than 12 children in your care. Child s Name Age Child s Name Age ************************************************************************************* Child Development Home B One adult with an assistant Category B Provider No more than 3 children under 18 months If more than 8 children are present for more than 2 hours, a DHS approved assistant age 14+ must be on site No more than 4 children may be under 24 months 180 hours per month may be used to care for 2 more children on a part time basis Provider may care for up to 8 children full time alone as long as two of them are school age or two are part time. Your infant, preschool and home schooled children are counted in your numbers 13

14 Category C: Child Development Home Iowa Department of Human Services If more than 8 children are present-you must have a DHS approved co-provider (whom meets Category B requirements) in the home with the primary provider at all times. No more than 16 children at any one time. Of the 16, no more than 12 preschool children at any one time. In addition to these 12 children, up to 2 children who attend school may be present for a period of less than 2 hours at any one time. Up to 2 children may also be present who are using part time hours. No more than 4 of those 12 children can be under 24 months of age. *Whenever 4 children under the age of 18 months are in care, both providers must be present. No more than 2 additional children who meet the school-age definition. Definition of Age Groups Infant: a child between the ages of 0-24 months. Non-school aged child (preschooler): a child who is 2 years old but not yet attending school. School-aged child: a child who is attending kindergarten or higher grade level. The provider listed first on the registration certificate: your own child or foster child who is attending kindergarten or a higher grade or child care program outside the home all day, every day on a regular basis is not counted in the total capacity of the program. The provider listed second on the registration certificate: Your own child or foster child who is attending kindergarten or a higher grade or child care program outside the home all day, every day on a regular basis is counted in the total capacity of the program. Definition of Part-Time Hours It is only necessary to use part-time hours if the number of children in care exceeds the allowable capacity. You may have up to 2 additional preschool and/or school-age children in care who are using part-time hours. You can NEVER exceed the maximum number of children less than 24 months of age in care. You may use a maximum of 180 hours of part-time care per month, and must keep a record of the number of part-time hours used. Exception: On days when schools are closed due to emergencies, such as inclement weather or physical plan failure, a Child Development Home C provider may care for the maximum of 16 children. Whenever more than 8 children are present at any one time during an emergency school closing day, the provider must be assisted by a DHS-approved assistant aged 18 or older. This exception does not apply on non-emergency no-school days, such as in-service, conference or vacation days. 14

15 How Many Children Can I Care For? Child Development Home C You may care for up to 12 preschool at any one time. Anytime there are more than 8 children present, you must have the Category C co-provider on site. In addition to the 12 preschool children you may care for 2 more school age children for less than 2 hours at a time. You will also have 180 hours per month that can be used for 2 additional part time children. You may never have more than 16 children in your care as a Category C2. You may never have more than 8 children in your care as a Category C1. Child s Name Age Child s Name Age Child Development Home C Two Adult Caregivers Category C - Two Adult Providers No more than 3 children under 18 months if C1 In addition to the 12 preschool children, you may care for 2 school age children for 2 hours at a time (before/after school) No more than 4 children may be under 24 months. If 4 are under 18 months both providers must be present 180 hours per month may be used to care for 2 more children on a part time basis One provider may care for up to 8 children full time alone Up to 12 preschool age children may be present full time. Anytime there are more than 8 children present, both providers must be present Your infant, preschool and home schooled children are counted in your numbers 15

16 We Help You Get Prepared Yourself, Your Home and Your Family Even if you are presently working outside the home, now is the time to prepare yourself, your home and your family for this new adventure. Training sessions are offered in the evening and on weekends so that you can attend class AND work. Your local Child Care Resource and Referral office will help you begin to think through your plans to provide quality child care. Tell People Parents frequently choose their child s care based on recommendations from other parents. If you know your start date, or have already opened your program, inform key people and organizations within your community or neighborhood. Churches, grocery stores, convenience stores, libraries, shoppers and PTA groups are a few of the places to begin advertising your child care business. Printed Advertising Spreading the word about your business doesn t require expensive advertising. Get the word out to key people and organizations within your community or neighborhood. Churches, grocery stores, shoppers and PTA groups are a few of the places to begin. Using business cards is also an inexpensive way to advertise. Pass them out to parents, schools, libraries, PTA meetings, etc. Many child care providers run ads, post flyers or print business cards to promote their program. Be sure to include key points if it applies to your business: Training taken ChildNet Certified State-registered Participating in Quality Rating System Participation with the Child & Adult Care Food Program Set Your Rates To set your rates, you will need to know how much money you need to pay your bills and current living expenses. Do you have any additional income on a regular basis? How much money will it cost to run your program effectively? Training will help you make these decisions. Training will also help you develop policies on vacation time, holiday pay and whether or not to charge for days when children cannot attend your program. Contracts & Policies Good communication is key to any relationship and it is particularly important when dealing with parents in your child care business. You should always have a contract and policies before you start providing care. Review your contract and policies when interviewing parents to allow for questions. Type of Child Care Services Based on parents calling looking for care, your local Child Care Resource and Referral agency can help you determine what types of child care services are most in demand in your area. See page 26 for further information about Parent Referrals. 16

17 We Help With Your Business Needs Planning Ahead Answer some important questions before you begin: Is this a temporary source of income or a growing business for the future? How much start-up cash do I need, and where will it come from? How much time and space will the business require? How much help will I need with child care, bookkeeping, and other tasks- and how much will it cost? Check with the Local Ordinances Many home businesses get shut down by authorities because the owners violated zoning laws, had too many visitors, failed to get health and safety inspections, or lacked proper licenses. Ask your city or county clerk about requirements. Also, find out how to register the name of your business. Keep Good Records Every business, regardless of size, needs complete records of all income, expenses, and customers. Equipment, supplies, plus every stamp, phone call, and car trip in pursuit of earnings, is tax-deductible. A portion of your mortgage may be deducted if you can produce appropriate supporting documentation for tax records. Professional Behavior Running a business in your home requires professionalism and can be demanding. It is important to meet deadlines, not get behind on bills, not allow children to answer the phone, or fail to demand deposits and signed contracts. Confidentiality and communication is very important to the success of your business. Sufficient Insurance Car and homeowner insurance policies seldom cover a home business, so it s crucial to talk to your insurance agent about additional coverage. Always ask for an endorsement in writing to make sure you are covered for your home based business. If you transport children in your vehicle or clients/employees come to your house for services, extra liability insurance is a must. Insurance professionals recommend that you have at least a million dollars of liability insurance coverage and understand what the policy covers. Value of Networking Your local Child Care Resource and Referral office offers a variety of trainings where you will have the opportunity to talk with other child care providers. The best advice often comes from other people in the field. Joining a support group or association in your area is also an option to meet other child care providers. 17

18 Protect Your Social Security Number As owner of your own family child care business, you may be using your social security number for tax purposes with the families in your care. As a matter of fact, you are obligated to share your social security number with families who have used your care the previous year so that they can receive a tax credit for their child care expenses. You are urged to take great care to protect your social security number due to the fact that misuse of such numbers is on the rise. A logical alternative to supplying your social security number is to obtain an Employer Identification Number through the Internal Revenue Service. To obtain an application form, you can contact your tax preparer or download the form from the IRS s web site at Once you have completed the application form, you can contact the IRS at to complete the application process or you may fax your application form to the IRS There is a wealth of information available for free at the IRS web site go visit! Connect With Your Local Child Care Nurse Consultant Health and Safety is the basic foundation on which a good child care program is built. The Child Care Nurse Consultant is an RN with expertise in child health & development who is available to answer your questions. The Child Care Nurse Consultant is a health professional who is knowledgeable about: Infectious diseases and immunizations Hygiene and sanitation Injury prevention Children with special health care needs Nutrition Oral health Mental health Environmental health Emergency management Playground safety The Child Care Nurse Consultant is up to date on best practice standards, DHS regulations, and can assist you with the QRS. They would be happy to talk with you by phone, or at your place of business. She/He is the nurse for your child care business! Call your CCR&R office and they can put you in touch with your local Nurse Consultant. 18

19 Child Care Assistance (Subsidy) Iowa Department of Human Services What is Child Care Assistance? Child Care Assistance is financial assistance available to the parents of income-eligible families who are absent for a portion of the day due to attending school or employment. Who Qualifies for Child Care Assistance? To be eligible for child care assistance families need to meet specific income guidelines and either be employed an average of 28 hours a week, be a full-time student and/or searching for a job. How Can I Receive Child Care Assistance Payments? For a provider to receive payment from the Department of Human Services for child care services they need to be approved by the Department of Human Services. If you are already registered with the Department of Human Services as a State Registered provider and you filled out your provider agreement, you are approved. If you are not a registered child care provider then the Department of Human Services conducts a criminal and child abuse background check on everybody living in the home that is 14 years of age and older (including the client if they are living in the home). Once all the checks are successfully completed, you are approved for child care subsidy payments from the Department of Human Services. What are the Benefits to Receiving Child Care Assistance? One of the major benefits to receiving child care assistance from the state is that you are guaranteed an automatic payment every month. You don t have to worry about the families not paying on time. You are also providing quality early care and education for children that might not have that opportunity elsewhere. What Information do I Need Before I Accept a Family on this Program? The most important document that you need to see before accepting a family that receives child care assistance is the Notice of Decision (NOD) from the Department of Human Services office. The Notice of Decision will state if a family has been approved or not for child care assistance. It can take up to 30 days for a family to receive the NOD upon applying for the assistance. If you do decide to accept a family before seeing the approval you will get paid back to the date of application (if they are approved) but you are taking a financial risk if they are not approved. **CONTACT THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES OFFICE FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT PROVIDER PAYMENT ** 19

20 Provider Rates for Children Paid by State Subsidy Iowa Department of Human Services (effective 7/1/13) Age Group Infant and Toddler Child care center July 2013 Half-Day Maximum Rates for Basic Care Child Development Home A or B Child Development Home C Non-Registered Family Home $16.78 $12.98 $12.44 $8.19 Preschool $13.53 $12.18 $12.18 $7.19 School Age $12.18 $10.82 $10.82 $7.36 Age Group Infant and Toddler Child care center July 2013 Half-Day Maximum Rates for Special Needs Care Child Development Home A or B Child Development Home C Non-Registered Family Home $51.94 $17.05 $13.40 $10.24 Preschool $30.43 $15.83 $13.40 $8.99 School Age $30.34 $14.61 $12.18 $9.20 Unit=5 hours or less 20

21 How to Have Your Program Referred to Parents By Your CCR&R Agency 1. Contact your local Child Care Resource & Referral 2. Complete Enrollment Forms:Survey will need to be done annually 3. Update your file with us quarterly, either by phone, or online at Make sure we have current information on your program including changes in vacancies, address and any other contact information. Why referrals and not recommendations? During the referral process parent counselors explain to parents verbally and in writing search results they receive are REFERRALS and NOT RECOMMENDATIONS. It is the parent s/guardian s responsibility to contact, interview and select the program that best suits their needs. We encourage them to ask the provider for the names of past and present clients in order to check references. A program that provides excellent care for one child may be unsatisfactory for another child. How does Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) decide which early care and education programs are referred to a family? Parent referrals are customized for each family using standard intake and processing procedures. After the database generates a list of early care and education programs, our staff double checks the file of each provider on the list to make sure the program s openings match what the family needs. Only programs with a current opening and those that have updated with us recently are put on the final list. This is why keeping your file up to date by sending in current information is so important. Are there other ways parents can get information about my early care and education business? Parents can also access our website, to obtain a listing of child care options as well. Parents enter their child care needs into the database on the internet and it matches them with available programs. Information that families can access regarding your program is limited. The search results list your first name, business name (if applicable), and the street name only. It also includes specific information regarding your program such as days, hours, ages served, type of state registration, environment, nearby schools and other services offered. What do parents receive in their referral packet? The parent referral packet includes an introduction letter, an explanation of the difference between a state registered Child Development Home provider and a non-registered program, the state registration categories and the provider referral list. The packet also includes assorted brochures with information on choosing quality care. What does the referral service cost? Our referral services are free. 21

22 Join the Child & Adult Care Food Program The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is available in all of Iowa s 99 counties. The Food Program helps you in a number of ways, including: Nutrition education. Learn how to provide nutritious meals and snacks that will benefit children. CACFP requires 2 hours or more of approved nutrition training each program year, which is part of the annual 12 hours registration training requirements. Record keeping. Because you must keep accurate attendance and meal records, participating with the CACFP helps you to be more organized in your child care business. Helpful monitoring visits. A representative from this program will help you get started and then visit your site at least three times each year to offer suggestions and guidance on nutrition, menu planning and health and safety. They will also provide you with fun activities that you can use with the children in your care. $$Cash payments$$ By following the CACFP guidelines you will be reimbursed monthly to help cover part of your food costs--one of the largest budget items in most child care programs. Who can participate? To participate with the CACFP, providers must be registered with the Iowa Department of Human Services and providing care for at least one child other than their own. If your family meets income guidelines your own children may participate in the program as well. To join the food program, contact the local CACFP agency in your county. Training Policies The following policies are in effect for all participants in statewide CCR&R sponsored training events: Classes will begin at the published start time. Participants need to plan to arrive 10 minutes early to check in, locate facilities and find a seat in the classroom. Participants must attend the entire class to receive training credit. Once class begins, late arrivals may choose to stay and audit the class if space allows, but will not receive training credit or a certificate. Anyone leaving a class early will not receive training credit or a certificate. Pre-registration, including payment of fees, is required in advance to guarantee an attendance slot in CCR&R trainings. All pre-registered participants will be provided with materials and the opportunity to participate in the class. Training participants need to register for training on-line using the Iowa DHS Training Registry at or click on the link to the Training Registry at 22

23 The Iowa DHS Training Registry does not support an online payment system. If you are registering for a training that requires a fee, please note that your registration is not complete until CCR&R receives your payment by check, or money order. Mail your payment to the address listed under Payment Option on the Training Summary page. Training descriptions and registration fees can be found online. Registration fees are non-refundable. Class participants are expected to behave in a courteous manner in class. Cell phones need to be turned off. Phone calls and text messaging are not allowed during class time. If an emergency call must be taken, please step outside of the classroom. CCR&R reserves the right to withhold a training certificate if a participant engages in unprofessional behavior that disrupts the class. Such action will be at the discretion of the instructor and/or CCR&R staff and may include notifying the participant s employer. Children are not allowed at CCR&R sponsored training. Children 14-15, who meet the DHS regulation definition of an employee or assistant in a child care program, may attend training, but MUST be accompanied by an adult. Maintaining training certificates is the responsibility of the participant. Training credit for class is measured in contact hours and is documented in the form of an original, signed CCR&R certificate. Attendance is verified using the final attendance roster for each class and recorded on the Iowa DHS Training Registry. Minimum Training Requirements for Registered Child Development Homes Iowa Department of Human Services From Training Requirements Registration Date 3 months 2 hours of mandatory child abuse reporter training. Training must be renewed every 5 years. 3 months Certification in infant and child First Aid that includes management of a blocked airway and rescue breathing. Note: If available First Aid classes do not include choking and rescue breathing, the provider must maintain current certification in CPR (online classes are not approved without onsite testing). 1 st year A minimum of *12 hours of training. Two hours of the training must be in the area of health and safety. Mandatory Reporting Training and CPR/First Aid are not included in training hours. 2 nd year and every year A minimum of *12 hours of training, chosen from these categories: after Health/safety/nutrition; child growth/development; child observation /assessment; interactions with children; learning experiences/environment; families/communities; program management; 23

24 professional development. Mandatory Reporting Training and CPR/First Aid are not included in training hours. *At least 6 hours of training must be received in a sponsored group setting. The remaining hours may be completed by selfstudy, using a training packet approved by DHS. Providers that submit documentation from Child Care Resource & Referral that they have completed the ChildNet training series may use those hours to fulfill a maximum of 2 years of training requirements, not including first aid and mandatory reporter training. All providers must maintain current certification for approved training for the mandatory reporting of child abuse and for infant and child First Aid, including management of a blocked airway and rescue breathing. **It is required that you maintain a current file of all your training certificates in your home and that you send documentation of attendance to the DHS at the time of state registration renewal. ChildNet Training & Certification For those interested in pursuing a level beyond minimum requirements, ChildNet is a training series designed to help you provide the best possible child care. By participating in the ChildNet Training series, you will also have met your first and second year state registration training requirements. ChildNet Training includes: Module One A More Professional You Module Two Creative Learning Spaces Module Three The Growing Child Module Four Activities for Early Learning Module Five Keeping the Peace Module Six It s Your Business Module Seven Germs: Yours, Mine & Ours Module Eight What s Cooking Module Nine We All Belong Module Ten Invest in Yourself 24

25 ChildNet Certification Eligibility Requirements: Completion of all ten ChildNet Modules Holding a current registration as a Child Development Home Provider Actively participating with the Child and Adult Care Food Program Proof of liability insurance (actual insurance policy or signed letter from the provider s insurance agent verifying coverage) Currently caring for children, other than their own Have current certification in CPR, First Aid (infant, child & adult) Have current certification in Mandatory Child Abuse Reporter Training Proof of contract and policies Completion of an onsite certification visit with the designated CCR&R staff. CCR&R staff will personally observe and document 100% compliance with items. o 100% compliant with the DHS regulatory requirements o 100% complaint with the Iowa Child Care Resource & Referral approved ChildNet Checklist To Maintain ChildNet Certification: To maintain your ChildNet Certification, you must remain state registered, document your participation in 16 hours of training each year, in addition to 16 hours of training provider must maintain a current First Aid, CPR and Mandatory Reporter Training certification, continue active participation with the CACFP by attending one nutrition class (2 hours) and complete an in-home visit the same year as registration renewal. 25

26 Iowa s Quality Rating System Child Development Homes What is Iowa s Quality Rating System? The Quality Rating System (QRS) is a voluntary program that offers providers a guided way to improve the quality of child care they provide. How do I apply? **Child Care Resource & Referral is here to help you apply!** There is no application fee to participate in the QRS. For information on how to receive an application packet, contact Child Care Resource & Referral of Northeast Iowa, You can also access the information at What do the Levels Mean? A provider who achieves Level 1 has met Iowa s registration standards. A provider who achieves Level 2 has received ChildNet training and Certification. Providers in Levels 3-5 have made significant steps in meeting key indicators of quality in the areas of: Professional Development Health and Safety Environment and Family and Community Partnerships What are the benefits of being a part of Iowa s Quality Rating System? By participating in the QRS, a provider shows parents and the community that they are committed to providing quality child care and are working towards improving the quality of care. In addition, achievement bonuses are given to participating providers. Providers who participate in Iowa s QRS can receive on-site technical assistance as they go through the steps needed to improve their quality of care. They may also be eligible for grants or support through Early Childhood Iowa. 26

27 Adult-person aged 18 or older. Glossary of Terms Assistant-a responsible person aged 14 or older. The assistant may never be left alone with children. Ultimate responsibility for supervision is left with the primary child care provider. Child-a person under 12 years of age or younger, OR, a person younger than 19 years of age who has a disability as defined under the federal Developmental Disability Assistance and Bill of Rights Act. Child Care Assistance (state subsidy)-financial assistance available to income-eligible parents who are absent for a portion of the day due to employment or participation in academic or vocational training. ChildNet-10 module (25 hr) training series set up for individuals wishing to start a child care business in their home or for experienced home child care providers who wish to improve their program. ChildNet Certification- certification given to child care providers who are interested in pursuing a level beyond minimum requirements. ChildNet Certified providers must have completed the 10 Module training series called ChildNet, have current CPR and First Aid training, keep current Mandatory Child Abuse Reporter training, active participation in the CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program), currently providing care for children (other than own), have a liability insurance policy for their child care home, and pass an in home visit conducted by Child Care Resource and Referral staff Department- the Department of Human Services. Full time hours-the amount of time considered the normal or standard amount of working time during a given period. Full time children use anywhere from hours per week. Licensed-formal certificate granted by the department only to child care centers and preschools in the state of Iowa. Parent-parent or legal guardian. Part time hours-the hours that child development homes in categories B and C are allowed to exceed their maximum preschool and/or school age capacity. A provider may use a total of up to 180 hours per month as part time hours. No more than two additional children using part-time hours may be in the child development home at any one time. Quality Rating System (QRS)-is a voluntary program that offers providers a guided way to improve the quality of child care they provide. Registration-process by which child care providers certify that they will comply with rules and regulations adopted by the department. 27

28 Registration Certificate-written document issued by the Department to publicly state the provider has certified in writing compliance with the minimum requirements for registration as a child development home. Substitute- a responsible person aged 18 or older. A substitute may be left alone with the children; however, ultimate responsibility for supervision is left with the primary child care provider. Substitutes may only be alone with the children up to 25 hours per month; plus an additional 2 weeks in a 12 month period. (Refer to Department of Human Services (DHS) registration checklist). 28