Parent Handbook - MWR Fort Leonard Wood

CELEBRATIONS
CYS programs recognize that religious, cultural, and national
celebrations are the foundation of many valuable Family traditions. While
these days may be acknowledged, we respect that each individual Family will
conduct their own celebration in ways that are appropriate and meaningful to
them.
The CYS staff will encourage and participate in child-initiated
discussions of such celebrations. We also encourage Family to share unique
traditions with the staff when appropriate.
We allow Family to strengthen their own traditions and encourage an appreciation for
differing beliefs. This approach avoids the commercial elements of many holidays.
Birthdays and special events may be celebrated at the program and parents are
encouraged to attend. We have learned, however, that elaborate parties and fancy cakes
encourage competitiveness among children for the “best” party and may take some of the joy and
pleasure out of the celebration. The children enjoy planning and preparing special snacks for
these celebrations. Please do not bring candy or individual party favors for these occasions.
They often result in problems for the staff and feelings of ill will between children. Some of
these items may also be a choking or safety hazard for young children.
Parents may bring a prepared cake from a commercial bakery. The cake must be
accompanied by a receipt showing the date and time of purchase. The cake will be served after
the afternoon snack.
The parent may also bring a cake mix purchased at a commercial grocery store and as stated
in the food service section of this handbook, the facility will provide all the added ingredients
and the children will be involved in the baking as a cooking activity. The cake will be served
after the afternoon snack.
Typically, infants and toddlers do not understand about birthdays and celebrations. You can
help make their day special by bringing in some photos. Young children get great enjoyment
from seeing photos of themselves, their Family, and their friends.
Please coordinate plans for your child’s birthday or special occasion with the staff at least two
week in advance of the event. If you have any questions, contact your child’s caregivers for
appropriate things to bring if you desire to participate in this celebration.
CLOTHING
Children are involved in many messy developmental activities such as art, cooking, and water
and sand play. Please dress your child appropriately for a busy day. Clothing that can
take wear and tear is best. We cannot guarantee that you child will be spotless at the end of the
day.
We take all children outside on a daily basis, weather permitting. This includes cold weather
days. Please provide outerwear appropriate for the weather. You may wish to send a cap or hat
for outside play, even in the summer. It will protect you child’s face from the sun and his or her
hair from the sand.
All children need a couple of changes of clothing including underwear. Children who are
toilet training may need several more. These may be left at the center or brought to and from the
center daily. A bag labeled with your child’s name will be helpful for those extra clothes and
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