|
Communication
Creating a Safe Environment
Playgrounds w/ Fall Surface
-
We know that outdoor play is an integral part of the learning process for every child. That is one reason why children in our care go outside every day! At The Learning Tree, we are proactive in making sure that the children are safe while exploring outside. Upon hire, all of our teachers are trained in playground safety through a program designed by the National Program for Playground Safety. Our administration team also conducts frequent outdoor observations to ensure that our teachers are doing everything they can to make the outdoors a safe place for the children. In addition, every morning our directors survey the playground and complete a Playground Safety Checklist for debris and hazardous material that could have found its way onto our playground overnight. Our playgrounds are also surfaced with only the best fall surface materials. Whether it is poured rubber, rubber chips or wood chips, we keep a close eye on these materials to ensure that proper depths are maintained. We adhere to the regulations established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission for school.
Booster Seats in Vehicles
Vehicles Equipped with GPS and Cell Phone
-
Our bus drivers go through training before they begin transporting children. The Learning Tree completes a Michigan State Police driving record on each potential driver. If a personal driving infraction does occur, we are notified within 48 hours so that we are able to address the situation and make sure each child is safe. Each driver is also required to obtain a Chauffer’s license through the state. All of our Learning Tree vehicles are equipped with a GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) system. The system allows us to track the whereabouts of each vehicle as well as monitor the speed the vehicle is traveling. In case an emergency does arise, our vehicles are stocked with all the necessary equipment including first aid kits, flares and fire extinguishers. Each driver also carries a company cell phone in order to keep in contact with Learning Tree’s main office.
Storm Boxes
-
Should a weather emergency arise, we are prepared. Each classroom is equipped with a Storm Box. Each Storm Box contains diapers, wipes, cups, snacks and activities to keep the children occupied should shelter be required.
Secured Entrances
-
If you are not a current member of our family you may not enter our facility. That’s right! Our North, South and Howell locations are equipped with fingerprint access entry and our South Lyon center has a swipe card system at its front door. Only enrolled families have access to our buildings. This ensures that we know at all times who is in our centers.
Extensive Background Checks on All Employees
-
Before a teacher begins their employment with us they undergo a Michigan State Police Background Check, a Department of Human Services check, a Physical and a TB test, and a Driving Check.
Strict Identification Procedures
Name to Face
-
We have found the easiest way to maintain attendance in our classrooms is to do a name to face check before transitioning from one location to the next. What does that mean exactly? It’s time to go outside so all the children up at the door. The teacher takes the attendance sheet and as they go down the list of names they are physically and visually checking that the child’s name that is on the list is in fact in line. It’s easy to miscount but doing a name to face check, we are ensuring that each child is ready and with us to go outside.
Teachers are Certified in CPR, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogen
-
Every year after the center closes, teachers and directors come together for an extensive training session on First Aid, CPR and Blood Borne Pathogen. Teachers are equipped with the necessary skills and tools to perform safety measures should an emergency arise.
|
