Jesus himself said, "Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me, welcomes not me but the one who sent me."

The Childcare Center at St. Margaret's is commited to providing quality care for children. We want parents to feel comfortable leaving their children with us. We set high standards for ourselves in order to create a great place for children to grow and learn. These standards represent our commitment to families with children.

A Safe and Healthy Environment
We carefully plan to make our center as safe and healthy as possible. Caregivers are trained in first aid and CPR. We regularly inspect our indoor and outdoor play spaces for potential hazards. Toys and equipment are sanitized after each use. Frequent handwashing is the norm for our caregivers. We provide parents with clear guidelines for when children need to stay home. Your child’s safety and health are of paramount importance to us.

Wellness Policy
It takes the cooperation and courtesy of everyone to maintain a healthy environment for our children. To be sure we do not spread illness or infectious germs, we ask that you not bring your child to the Childcare Center if they show any of these symptoms:

                         • fever or vomiting
                         • discharge in or around eyes
                         • green or yellow runny nose
                         • excessive coughing
                         • diarrhea
                         • any questionable rash
                         • any communicable disease, including Chicken Pox, Conjunctivitis, Impetigo or Fifth’s Disease.

Colds, flu and ear infections are assumed contagious as long as a child exhibits symptoms. Sometimes your child may be in perfect physical health, but other issues will arise. If your child is irritable or seems to be experiencing emotional distress, we may page you to comfort and help your child through these feelings.

If you have any questions about your child’s wellness status, please feel free to call Valerie Lee, Childcare Coordinator, at (425)746-6650 ext. 322 or speak directly with one of the caregivers.

Security
Whenever children are present, access to the center is limited to parents and paid or volunteer staff. You will be asked to sign your child in and out. Only you or an adult you designate may take your child from the center. All caregivers have successfully completed a Washington State Patrol background check.

A Place to Learn and Grow
God has “hardwired” children to learn and grow from the moment they are born. We provide experiences for your child which challenge him or her to explore the world God has made. Each week, even the youngest children hear Bible stories and participate in music time. We plan activities to help children learn and grow at their own special pace.

Support During Transitions
Our caregivers love children and are dedicated to working with you to make this an excellent experience for your child. We want you to take all the time you need to help your child make a smooth transition to the Childcare Center. We will work closely with your family as you make this adjustment. This may include any of the following steps:

Assure your child that the Childcare Center is a safe place. Introduce him or her to the caregivers.

Tell your child when you plan to return. Always remember to say goodbye. By doing so, you are helping your child build trusting relationships.

We will contact you if your child is distressed for more than a few minutes.

It may happen that your child is doing just fine, but you feel anxious or concerned. You are welcome to drop by the Childcare Center at any time. Please check in with the Greeter at the desk before entering the rooms.

Parents as Volunteer Caregivers
In order to maintain quality care, parents are invited to volunteer as greeters. This is an excellent way for you to welcome visitors to St. Margarets, meet other parents and spend special time with your child.

NOTE: Anyone working with children at St. Margaret’s must successfully complete the Washington State Patrol background check and orientation training.

Staff Contact

Valerie Lee, Coordinator of Childcare Ministries
(425) 746-6650, ext. 322
childcare@saintmargarets.org