Please note: These topics are all addressed in our Parent Handbook as well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

{General}

What ages does Giant Step serve?

We are currently licensed to serve children ages 2-12. If you have an under-two-year-old who wants to enroll in Giant Step soon, we can help you register them. Per state licensing rules and regulations, your child’s first day with us cannot be before their 2nd birthday.

Do fees vary by age?

No. We charge rates by the day, according to how long a child will attend (before/After School Care, half-day/full-day). Families can choose a combination of schedules to meet their specific needs. More information is available on our Rates and Forms page.

Must my child be potty trained/require a daily nap to attend?

No. We believe in meeting children and families where they are; toilet training and sleep needs are no exception.

 Our staff changes diapers and assists children with toileting and hygiene as needed.

Our schedule does include a daily nap/rest time. Children requiring sleep are supervised in one space. Children who do not need to nap can play separately, also supervised, of course. State regulations direct us to allow children to get up if they have not fallen asleep within 30 minutes of lying down. Typically, our nappers are asleep within that window without issue. We keep the nap area reasonably dark and play soothing music. Nappers are provided with a covered mat, blankets, pillows, and comfort items (stuffed toys) as needed.

What does my child need to bring with them?

We do not require specific supplies (though donations are always appreciated).

We do encourage families to pack at least one change of clothes (possibly more if potty training) as well  as outdoor clothes appropriate to the weather (i.e., coats and snow gear in winter, light jackets/layers in fall, bathing suit/sunscreen in summer)

Children may bring a blanket and one toy/stuffie if they like. (Please, no electronics.)

We provide each child with a water bottle that remains at Giant Step. They are labeled with the child’s name and are cleaned and sanitized daily.

When am I required to drop off/pick up?

These times can be flexible, given your individual needs. We keep a schedule for our regular clients and appreciate advance notice when changes are necessary. The earliest drop-off can begin at 6:30 a.m.; the latest pickup time is 5:30 p.m. We consider our preschool program “in session” from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. To be counted for breakfast, please be here (or contact us to ensure we know you will make it) by 8 a.m. 

How many children attend?

While more children are registered, only 15 can be present. This policy is according to state regulations, so scheduling is imperative. We strive for an adult/child ratio of 1:7 per best practice, according to NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children).

Do you have openings?

Because our attendance fluctuates daily and weekly, speaking with us directly about your needs is best. We do accept drop-ins when our numbers allow. If you call, we can let you know what is available on any given day.

What does the schedule look like?

We aim for a mix of free play and adult-directed activities that are age-appropriate according to the needs of our present group. Our daily Schedule has more details.

Will I need to provide food for my child?

We participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), a USDA-funded program to increase children’s and their families’ access to quality nutrition.

 As such, we provide breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks to all attending children at no extra cost to you. Children joining us after the morning session of public preschool are included in lunch and snacks; afternoon snacks are provided for those joining us for After-School care. You can view a sample menu on our Rates and Forms page.

(If you prefer to provide your child’s food or have specific dietary needs, please discuss this with us directly so we can ensure that your child’s needs are met while we comply with CACFP recommendations.) 

Have a question yet to be addressed here?

Let us know. The answer is likely in our Parent Handbook, but we may add your question to our FAQs. We are always happy to help in person, via phone, or email!

How often does registration occur? 

Families utilizing Giant Step must register at two points: 1. When their child begins attending it. 2. Every August, we repeat the registration process. This repetition is required by state licensing to ensure our records remain complete and current. (Let’s say a child is registered in March of 2023. The family would still register again in August of 2023, even though it has been less than one year.)

Will gaps in attendance change my registration date? Can I lose/hold a spot?

If a child has a gap in attendance, they can resume without registering again unless the yearly registration period passes during their absence. 

Let’s say that a family schedules care every Monday for the foreseeable future.

This will be considered when someone else asks about availability. Now, say the family knows their child will miss two Mondays and then resume their regular schedule. 

This is no issue as long as we have been notified. However, when busy, we reserve the right to fill empty spots when communication is not given. 

See Also: Preschool FAQs Printer Friendly FAQs