Fort Hays State University
Victor E. Tiger
Fort Hays State University



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 Home > Tiger Tots

Rest Time

We provide a relaxing daily rest or nap time for all children from 1-2:30 p.m. The length of rest time is determined by The State Department of Health and Environment and is based on the number of full-time children who attend the Center. Some children may need sleep; while others may choose to simply rest. We strongly believe that all children need the opportunity to have a quiet time, although some children would argue with us on this point! We try to accommodate each child's sleep needs. The fact that we are in one big room means it is important for all children to rest quietly so that those who want and need to sleep may do so.

The children are provided with a child sized cot or a sleep mat. Parents need to supply a cot sheet (large bath towel) and a child size blanket. Please clearly label both items. Child sized pillows may be brought if you so desire. The blanket and sheet will be sent home bi-weekly to be washed.

Soothing music is played during rest time. A positive rest time incentive may be used to encourage and reward the children for doing their job (resting quietly). We hope that this is a positive time for your child. Soft toys such as stuffed animals or a small toy are welcome at rest time.

Children with special needs
Tiger Tots will try to accommodate children with special needs (physical, behavioral, cognitive, etc.). If the child has already been evaluated, we will work to implement the IEP or IFSP that has been developed. We feel that open communication is vital for the welfare of the child. Parents are required to submit to us their child's most recent IEP or IFSP, and to keep us apprised of any changes or progress. If we feel a child should be evaluated so that he/she can get extra help during these formative years we will make the recommendations to the parents.

Tiger Tots does not discriminate against any child. If we feel that we are unable to meet a child's needs in our setting, we will call a conference with the parents. At this conference we will assess whether we are able to meet the child's needs at our Center. A plan of action will be developed and another conference will be held in two weeks. As a team, the teacher and parents will determine if the child is thriving at the Center. If we are unable to meet the child's needs, we will give the parents the time and assistance necessary in finding more appropriate care.

Clothing
Children should dress comfortable in clothing that is suitable for the weather. We do participate in hands-on activities that can be rather "messy." We wear paint smocks but occasionally clothes will get something such as paint on them. We try to use only washable paint but this does not guarantee that the stain will come out so send your child to the Center in clothes that will not inhibit participating in activities.

Toileting Policy
Children should be toilet trained upon enrollment into the center. Do not send your child in diapers. If your child still wears diapers during the daytime or has frequent urine and/or bowel accidents, chances are he/she is not ready for preschool, and it's best not to rush the child. The younger children (30 months through 3 years) may wear pull-ups if necessary. The younger children should have a concept of wet/dry and be attempting to consistently use the toilet. We expect occasional "accidents" and will help your child change into dry clothes. All children are required to bring an extra set of clothing including underwear, socks, pants and shirt. These items should be clearly labeled and placed in a ziplock bag.

We request that you do not send your children in overalls, tights or belts that are difficult for them to remove or unfasten. We are glad to help your children but this inhibits their ability to use the restroom independently and may cause feelings of frustration.

*Label all extra clothing, jackets, coats and accessories with your child's name.*
Bringing Toys to Tiger Tots
Toys from home can create feeling of security and familiarity for the child. Children may want to bring a favorite toy, game, video or book to the Center. Past experience has shown us that this can be a positive experience if a few simple guidelines are followed. Please do not allow your child to bring more than one item per day. Label the items since there are often duplicates of a toy brought by other children. We are modeling responsibility to the children so please do not expect a teacher to leave the other children and locate a misplaced toy when you are leaving the Center. The toy or book invariably shows up and will be placed in your child's cubby. A good rule of thumb is, if the toy is fragile, irreplaceable or has several parts, the toy should be left at home.
One of our goals is to encourage cooperative play and we may request that your child not bring toys in if we notice that home toys are causing noncooperative play or stress. We have a wide selection of materials that are stimulating and encourage sharing at preschool.
 
Important: Please leave guns, weapons and other toys that encourage aggressive play at home. Gum, candy and money are not permitted.
 
Cubbies
A cubby is provided for each child and is labeled with the child's name. The children share cubbies so please check to determine if the art work belongs to your child. Please look each day for art work, notes from the teacher, and personal items. Backpacks make the trip home much easier.

 
 
Birthdays
The Center enjoys celebrating this special day with your child. Your child's birthday is celebrated at Tiger Tots by singing Happy Birthday. The children created a special book just for your child to take home.
 
If parents choose to bring a birthday treat we request that cake and cupcakes not be brought. Cookies, muffins, brownies, fruit or a favorite food of your child are suggested. If you plan to bring a treat, please notify us on the Friday before your child's birthday. We will let you know how many children to plan for. Parents are always welcome at their child's birthday celebration.
 
Parents may wish to donate a book, puzzle or game to the classroom. The birthday child has the honor of giving, not just receiving, on their special day. If you wish to donate an item, the teacher can give you ideas of what the class would enjoy. We will put a special sticker with your child's name on the birthday item.
 
Special Week
Each child will have a special week during the year. Your child will bring home a bag with a note asking for pictures to share with the class. Baby pictures and pictures of family members, pets, and family outings are suggested. The child will also have the opportunity to bring a favorite toy, book and video to the Center. Parents are welcome to come and eat lunch with their child during this special week. We eat lunch at 12:15 p.m. and the cost for adults is $2.50.
 
Student Affairs Webmaster
Updated 02/21/2003

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