Family Handbook

2023/2024

404 5th Avenue West, Grand Marais, MN 55604

218-387-1324

Find us on our website:

http://cooperationstationdaycare.weebly.com/

and on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/cooperationstationnatureplayschool

Cooperation Station Family Handbook Revised Nov. 2023

 Table of Contents
Part 1: History and Program Details 5-6
- History
- Location
- Hours of Operation
- Ages and Numbers Served
- Contract Days and Holiday Closure
- Unscheduled Closings Due to Weather and Facility Safety
- Time Off for Staff
- Caregiver Substitutes
- Insurance
- Nondiscrimination Statement

Part 2: Mission and Philosophy 7-8

- Mission and Values
- Philosophy

Part 3: Program Policies 8-16

- Communication Between Families and Providers
- Behavior Guidance
- Naps
- Quiet Rest
- Drop Off/Pick Up Times
- Parent Aware Rating and Early Learning Scholarships
- Curriculum and Assessment Tools
- Active Play
- Appropriate Dress
- Messy Play
- Nutrition
- Birthday Celebrations
- Family Style Meals
- Breastfeeding
- Toys From Home
- Prohibited Items
- Birthdays
- Diapering
- Toilet Learning
- Publicity
- Communication Between Families and Caregivers

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Part 4: Sensitive Issues 17-18
- Adult Behavior
- Confidentiality
- Driving While Intoxicated
- Reporting Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect (Parents or Staff)
- Developmental Concerns
- Discrimination Against Children with Special Needs
- Smoking
- Policy on Grievance

Part 5: Health Policies 19-20

- Admission and Exclusion of Ill Children
- Medications
- Diaper Changing and Supplies
- Sunscreen/Sun Hats/Bug Spray
- Sanitation and Hygiene
- First Aid
- Incident Reporting
- Serious Injuries or Illness Requiring Medical or Dental Care
- Emergency Evacuation Plan and Drills

Part 6: Membership Benefits and Obligations 21

Part 7: Contract Information 22-25

- Childcare Fees
- Payment Policies
- Financial Assistance Options
- Late Pick-Up Fee
- Additional Days
- Changing Your Contract
- Terminating Your Contract
- Absences and Vacation Time
- Waitlist and Seniority

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Part 8: Appendices 26
A. Fee Schedule
B. Permission to Post
C. Child Care Contract
D. Immunization Records
E. Transition Questionnaire
F. Admission and Exclusion of Ill Children Policy
G. Activity Off-Premises Authorization
H. Grievance Policy
I. Emergency Permission
J. Permission to Administer
K. Maltreatment of Minors Reporting Policy

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 Part 1: History and Program Details

History
Cooperation Station opened on September 1, 1999. It is the result of a group of parents and
community members working together to develop a unique model for quality and consistent child
care in Grand Marais.

Cooperation Station is licensed as a Family Day Care. It is unique in that it is not in the home of a
single caregiver, but in a home that is owned by the corporation. Cooperation Station is a not-for-
profit 501c3 corporation. Parents serve on the Board of Directors, support committees, hire and
supervise staff and are responsible for working with staff to manage the fiscal and broader
program decisions of Cooperation Station.

In addition, parents are invited to participate in activities at Cooperation Station and to get to
know other parents. We understand that every parent here is extremely busy with having young
children and working. However, we also believe that the support and quality childcare at
Cooperation Station helps make our busy days better.

Location
Cooperation Station is located at 404 5th Avenue West, Grand Marais, MN. The phone number is
218-387-1324. The home was purchased by Cooperation Station on February 13, 2001.

Hours of Operation
Cooperation Station provides child care Monday-Friday from 7:40am-5:15pm.

Ages and Numbers Served

Cooperation Station operates as a licensed Family Child Care issued by Cook County and in
accordance with the laws of the State of Minnesota.
Cooperation Station holds a C3 license and cares for children between 6 weeks and 11 years.
The state of Minnesota uses the following definitions:
- Infant: 6 weeks - 1 year
- Toddler: 1 year - 2 years
- Preschool: 2 years - 5 years
- School Age: 5 years - 11 years
Our C3 license allows for care of a maximum of 12 children with one provider and 14 with two
providers. In both models, we can care for a maximum of 10 children under school age.

Contract Days and Holiday Closures

Families can contract for full-time or part-time care. We do not offer half or partial day care at this
time, outside of before/after school care for students over the age of 5. Families are responsible
for paying for a spot in the program, not attendance. If your child is absent for any reason, you are
responsible for paying for their contracted dates, including holidays. (See below for unscheduled
closings)
Families are responsible for paying for the following holiday dates:
New Years Day

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Memorial Day
July 4
Labor Day
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Day
* There is the potential that CS will be closed for a longer period between Christmas Eve and New
Year’s Day, which will be determined on a yearly basis.

Unscheduled Closings Due to Weather and Facility Safety

Extremely poor weather, extended periods without electricity, phone or water, or other unusual
circumstances may require Cooperation Station to close. If Cook County schools are closed due
to snow and poor road conditions, we will open two hours late with the potential to be closed for
a full day. This allows staff and the Board to make a safe and smart decision for the day. Parents
of children scheduled to attend on these days will be notified as soon as possible by email and a
phone call to let you know of closures. If the decision is made to close for the day, families will not
be charged for that day, and will receive a credit on their next bill. If we open 2 hours late, families
will still be charged for the full day rate.

Time Off for Staff

Staff will receive 2 weeks of paid time off per calendar year. We will give as much notice as
possible and work to arrange for substitutes to cover. If we are unable to find subs, the board will
meet to decide how to proceed. If you would like to be added to our substitute pool, please reach
out to staff or the Board.

Caregiver Substitutes
It is a priority at Cooperation Station and an indicator of the quality care we provide to maintain a
core group of consistent caregivers. However, it may occasionally be necessary to bring in an
"outside" substitute caregiver. Such a caregiver will have met safety training and background
check requirements. We will do all that we can to ensure that a substitute caregiver is as familiar
with the children and our daily routines as possible. If you do not know or have not met a
caregiver, please introduce yourself if s/he doesn’t first introduce him/herself!

Insurance
Minnesota law requires parents to be notified of the insurance status of their licensed childcare
facility. Cooperation Station has liability and property insurance with the Statewide Insurance LLC.

Nondiscrimination Statement
No child or parent will be discriminated against in relation to admissions or other treatment on the
basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender or disability. Activities and materials are
presented to the children to introduce an awareness of differences in people, cultures and
abilities, and we relate these differences in a positive manner.

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 Part 2: Mission and Philosophy

Mission and Values

Cooperation Station nurtures children in a playful learning environment through a partnership
between parents and caregivers.

At Cooperation Station we value:

Nature play
Cooperation Station encourages nature play for all ages of babies, toddlers, and young children
who participate in its programming. Nature play can look different depending on the stages of
development of participants, but shares the common theme of providing ample time outdoors, as
well as an environment rich in natural materials for children to explore. Here are some examples of
how nature play can look (age ranges are approximate):

- Infants and toddlers (birth-2 years old):

- Time spent outdoors in the playscape at Cooperation Station. Time exploring
natural materials such as sticks, snow, water, leaves, etc. (both indoors and out).
- Older toddlers (2-3 years old):
- Increasing amounts of time playing outside in the playscape, short walks near the
house to explore the neighborhood and nearby natural areas.
- Preschool aged children (3-5 years old):
- Also includes longer walks to explore the community and outdoor areas in Grand
Marais.

An Inspiring Learning Environment that is:

- Creative
- Safe
- Healthy
- Developmentally appropriate
- Home-like
- Free from battery-operated, single purpose toys

A Flexible Learning Program that Promotes:

- Child-led unstructured play
- Time outdoors
- Opportunities for physical challenges to promote healthy risk-taking, problem-solving, and
confidence-building.
- Growth-mindset
- Resilience
- Curiosity and discovery as children explore the natural elements of our shared environment
- Creativity
- Positive development intellectually, physically, socially and emotionally
- Inclusiveness
- Mixed-age group experiences
- Meeting children at their levels

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 - Parents as the child’s most important teacher, working in partnership with their caregivers

An Effective Parent Cooperative that Promotes:

- The organization’s mission and goals
- Meeting the individual needs of children, families, staff and volunteers in the organization
- Respectful relationships and open communication
- Strong input, support and leadership from the parents

Our Professional, Engaging and Nurturing Caregivers:

- Are encouraged to develop their skills through leadership opportunities, training and
effective feedback
- Effectively reinforce and model the "7 Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs,” as identified
in the book Mind in the Making by Ellen Galinsky: focus and self-control; perspective
taking; communicating; making connections; critical thinking; taking on challenges; and
self-directed engaged learning

Community Relationships that Make the Most of:

- Community resources for children’s programming and organizational opportunities
- Partnerships with schools, community organizations and caring individuals

Philosophy
Cooperation Station is much like a community, and everyone involved is important. By virtue of
the intimate nature of childcare, open, honest and trusting relationships among the staff and
parents are crucial. Cooperation Station strives to be a place where all adults and children can
feel safe, cherished and respected. Cooperation Station provides children warm and trusting
relationships with adults, consistent daily routines and developmentally appropriate play choices
and activities.

Cooperation Station provides children security in their time away from their parent(s) and/or
guardian(s) while also nurturing their developmental growth. Children’s creativity is enhanced with
outdoor play, age-appropriate sensory activities and open-ended art activities. Motor activities
both inside and outside encourage the children to further their large and small muscle skills.
Children develop enhanced social skills as they learn to share with other children and when they
learn how to communicate a desire to play alone for a while. Interactions with adults are positive,
as adults provide opportunities for language growth, provide structure to the day, and pose firm,
fair and friendly expectations.

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 Part 3: Program Policies

Communication Between Families and Providers

Quality care is dependent upon open and mutually supportive communication between parents
and providers. Trust and honesty are key. Parents are encouraged to share with caregivers any
information that may be useful in helping them better understand a child's moods, a child's
likes/dislikes, and/or guidance, routines and expectations at home. This information is confidential
and will only be shared amongst the caregivers. Parents are encouraged to ask caregivers about
the day and what transpired. Look for notes and artwork in your child’s mailbox. Daily notes about
meals, diapers and naps will be posted in the communication app. When a parent wishes to have
an extensive conversation to discuss a concern with a caregiver, it is best to do this away from
children and other parents. Sometimes, this may require arranging a mutually convenient time to
meet. This is often the best way to effectively discuss important issues. If a parent has a concern
that does not seem resolved by talking and working with the staff, the parent should contact the
Family Services Committee Chair. Parents should also refer to the Grievance Policy (Appendix H).

Behavior Guidance
There are clear rules and limits that are founded in the health, safety and concern of the people
and property of Cooperation Station. The caregivers at Cooperation Station use a variety of
guidance techniques that are appropriate for the age and developmental capabilities of each
child, appropriate for the situation and appropriate across time.
These strategies may include:
- anticipating and then preventing the problem
- reinforcing appropriate behavior with positive verbal comments and physical gestures (e.g.,
hugs or ‘thumbs up’)
- giving encouragement or gentle reminders
- distracting to a positive model
- offering choices
- clarifying messages
- overlooking small annoyances
- deliberately ignoring provocations
- pointing out natural or logical consequences
- facilitating problem solving and conflict resolution between the children
- group discussions about recurring problems
- provide time away from the situation to calm down and regroup (“Take a break”)

“Take a break” time will be used when out-of-control behavior occurs or after physical or verbal
assaults, as a safety measure for the other children as well as a method for the child to regain
composure. The caregiver will remind the child why they need to take a break, and invite them to
return to play when they are ready. A child will not be separated from the group unless less
intrusive methods of guiding the child’s behavior have been ineffective. Children under 16 months
will never be separated from the group as a means of behavior guidance. Parents will be informed
of such incidents, not so the child is punished at home, but to encourage discussion of problems
with the child, to inform parents about how Cooperation Station staff are handling problems, and
to allow parents opportunity for input and suggestions.

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In the event that the child’s behavior rises to the level of “severe,” providers will work to
deescalate the situation while keeping the other children safe. If the caregiver is unable to mitigate
unsafe behavior, the child’s parents will be contacted to pick up the child for the day. Caregivers
will use the developmentally appropriate Behavior Guidelines in Appendix M to define “severe,”
though will also be able to utilize discretion on defining “severe.”

If there is a consistent behavior problem which continues despite the use of the above
techniques, the parent(s), a staff member and at least one member of the Board of Directors will
promptly meet to discuss the situation and develop a behavior management plan. The staff will
provide the parent(s) with specific documentation of the behavior and what has occurred before
and after the problem, across time in different incidences. As part of a plan, parents may be
asked to work with an outside resource and the staff with a team approach.

Outside resources may include a physician, early childhood consultant, and/or a psychologist. If
parent(s) do not agree to this, they will have a two-week notice to find alternative childcare, and
their contract with Cooperation Station will be terminated. If the severe behaviors remain ongoing
and unsafe to other children and caregivers while a plan is progressing, Cooperation Station
reserves the right to suspend care for the child while the plan is progressing and until the severe
behaviors are mitigated.

It is understood that some children require extra energy and assistance in developing appropriate
social and emotional skills. Cooperation Station understands that changes in childcare only
accentuate child and parent frustration and wants to avoid this expulsion at all costs. However,
Cooperation Station does not endorse continuation of negative situations and behaviors without a
proactive plan for change in place. Accordingly, if a solution cannot be found or the severe
behavior does not change within a reasonable amount of time, the child may need to cease care
with Cooperation Station in order to participate in an environment which can care for their needs
in a more appropriate way. Ultimately, Cooperation Station is committed to providing reasonable
accommodations while also protecting the safety of the other children and staff members and
provide a reasonable and stable workplace for caregivers.

Naps
Generally speaking, infants and young toddlers may nap one, two, or more times per day based
on their routines from home, and older toddlers and younger preschoolers usually will nap one
time per day after lunch. As we are licensed to care for up to 4 total infants and toddlers at one
time, it is essential that children are prepared to sleep independently in a crib (infants), or on a mat
(toddlers and older), before starting at Cooperation Station. Your child has the potential to be
amongst 9 to 13 other children under the care of 1 or 2 providers, so it would be impossible to
meet the needs of all the other children if any child needed 1-on-1 attention to receive the rest
they need while in our care. Additionally, as a licensed childcare facility, we must adhere to the
safe sleep standards and policies according to Minnesota Statutes 245A.1435.

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Quiet Rest
We want what is best for your child's growth and development. In reviewing our program with
early childhood experts and in shadowing other nature play and childcare programs, we have
found that our children are greatly stimulated throughout the day, with time full of learning,
negotiating with one another, exploring the world around them, and simply engaging. And, in
order to positively digest the morning and be ready for what is next, we schedule a more formal
rest or decompression period. Why? Like adults, children need time to process their day and
regroup. While not every child actually needs to "sleep" during rest time, all children need this time
to quiet their minds and their bodies. In an environment of constant learning, the quiet time can
be as important as sleep. It helps regulate mood and supports memory function. Since our
program has a large physical component, decompression time allows their growing bodies to be
refreshed from the morning's activities and be ready for the afternoon adventures. In compliance
of the State of Minnesota, all students will rest for at least 30 minutes. If a child has quietly and
calmly rested for 30 minutes but is not asleep, they will be given the choice to do quiet activities
for the remaining rest time. If a child does fall asleep during that time, they will be permitted to
sleep for the remaining rest time.

Drop-Off
Children may arrive no earlier than 7:40 AM. Parents must come inside the house with their child.
Parents are responsible for making sure that at least one caregiver is aware that their child is
there. Parents are expected to assist your child with hanging up coats, removing boots, prepping
your child for the day etc.

Saying goodbye can sometimes be tearful and upsetting. Parents are encouraged to say
goodbye, rather than “sneak out” when the child is distracted. Clear goodbyes actually help the
child develop routine and build trust and security with their caregivers, even though tears and
crying can be so painful to see. Feel free to call or message after some time has passed to see
how it’s going.

Pick-Up
If someone other than parents/guardians are planning on picking up, let providers know. This
person’s name will need to be listed on your child’s paperwork as an approved pick-up person. If
the pick-up person is not listed on your child’s paperwork, the provider will call you to get verbal
permission. This is especially important when parents are divorced or separated. If a noncustodial
parent or relative is NOT to pick up a child, the custodial parent must put such information in
writing to assure that all caregivers are aware of the situation. A court order may be needed as
well.

At the end of the day, parents must be sure that at least one caregiver knows they are picking up
their child. . Late pick up fees will be charged to families that are not out the door by 5:15. See
Part 7: Contract Information for more details.

Parent Aware Rating

Cooperation Station is currently a three-star rated program from Parent Aware, the second
highest possible rating. We received our official rating in January 2020. We are awaiting our 2023

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rating. Parent Aware Ratings are based on demonstrated use of practices that best prepare
children for kindergarten. The Minnesota Early Learning Standards reflect the full range of child
development and include six domains:
Social and Emotional Development
Approaches to Learning
Language and Literacy Development
Creativity and the Arts
Cognitive Development
Physical and Motor Development

The philosophy and curriculum at Cooperation Station engages all of these domains in a
whole-child approach. With the North Shore as a classroom and nature as one of the teachers,
children play, learn, develop, and grow. They are ready not only for kindergarten, but also for a
childhood rooted in connection with the earth and an understanding of themselves and their place
in things.

As a three-star rated program, Cooperation Station:

- Uses consistent routines to support children, talks with children and families to better
understand their interests and culture, shares important community resources with
families, learns about each individual child by observing and taking notes, and commits to
and maintains professional ethics in the early learning field
- Evaluates learning activities, materials, classroom layout, and health-related practices to
set goals for growth, plans school-readiness activities for children, guides families through
their children’s transition to kindergarten, shares information with families in ways that meet
their unique needs, plans for continued learning and professional growth
- Uses a curriculum aligned with Minnesota’s early learning standards, teaches in a way that
is organized, challenging and warm, helps children transition between activities and stay
engaged, uses approved tools to track children’s development, commits to ongoing quality
improvement by using some of these best practices:
○ Responds to unique cultural customs and needs of children and families
○ Offers activities that encourage family participation and help children transition to
kindergarten
○ Gives families opportunities to provide feedback about the program
○ Shares child development updates with families to set goals together
○ Makes accommodations for children with special needs and their families
○ Has highly-qualified and trained leadership staff, teachers, and providers
○ Creates a program-wide professional development plan
○ Encourages healthy living through nutrition and physical activity, always evaluating
to set goals for growth

A primary motivator for Cooperation Station to volunteer for the Parent Aware Rating was the
Early Learning Scholarships. The Early Learning Scholarships give eligible families financial
support to help pay for high-quality early childhood care and education to prepare their young
children for school. The scholarship amount is up to $5,000 for a 12 month period. The Early
Learning Scholarship must be used at a Minnesota child care or early learning program that is a 3

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or 4 star-rated Parent Aware program. Learn more or apply at
https://northlandfdn.org/special-initiatives/index.php. For other family support services available
to you, please visit www.parentaware.org/learn/ Services may include, but are not limited to:
MFIP, CCAP, MA, Housing Assistance.

Curriculum and Assessment

We use a combination of curriculums to support learning and to prepare the children for
kindergarten. Each of our curriculums address some or all of the Minnesota Early Childhood
Indicators of Progress (https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/early/ind/), or ECIPs, which are a
framework for a common set of developmentally appropriate expectations for children ages birth
to kindergarten, within a context of shared responsibility for helping children meet these
expectations. ECIP areas include: Approaches to Learning, The Arts, Language Literacy
Communications, Mathematics Cognitive, Physical and Movement, Scientific Thinking Cognitive,
Social Emotional, and Social Systems Cognitive. Our primary curriculum is Redleaf Family Child
Care Curriculum: Teaching Through Quality Care 2E, and we supplement it with A Child's World
nature-based curriculum and Learning Without Tears for handwriting curriculum.

In order to better meet the individual needs of each child, we supplement our curriculum with an
observation based assessment system, My Teaching Strategies Gold. This assessment will help
us create a developmental profile of each child to answer the questions, "What does this child
know? What is he or she able to do?" that can be used to scaffold each child’s learning.
Assessments will be conducted once or twice a year, and the results will be shared with families if
desired.

Active Play
Cooperation Station is committed to providing daily, nature-based play experiences for all
participants. We believe in great beginnings. We know that hands-on experiences in nature help
build stronger, smarter, and happier children, and we believe that quality education for young
children includes regular opportunities to connect with nature and the local environment. We also
believe that as children learn to care for themselves and others, they also begin to learn to care for
the world around them. Experiencing and learning about the environment in early childhood builds
a foundation for lifelong environmental literacy. Best practices for active play are a minimum of 2
hours a day for preschoolers and 1 ½ or more hours a day for toddlers. We wholeheartedly
support active play by allowing ample time in our daily schedule for indoor or outdoor large motor
play. We take walks to local naturescapes, playgrounds, attend ECFE open gym, and get outside
as much as the weather allows us!

Our caregivers participate in active play as well, and build activity in circle time and story time.
Cooperation Station is proud to provide a screen-free environment for all ages in accordance with
the American Association of Pediatricians recommendation for no screen time before the age of
2.

Appropriate Dress
Appropriate dress is important so that your child can participate in activities at Cooperation
Station safely and comfortably. Please dress your child appropriately with clothes that can get

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dirty, as well as appropriate outdoor clothing as needed. Children spend time outdoors most days
and will need:
- Rain gear: jacket with hood*, pants*, boots**, rain mittens* and (optional) hat
- Winter gear: long underwear (preferably wool), warm socks (wool again)*, snow pants*,
warm winter jacket, warm mittens*, winter hat**, and warm boots*
- Summer gear: sun hat*, sunscreen, shoes for exploring (close toe shoes they can hike and
climb in)

*Cooperation Station has these items available for each child if needed
**Cooperation Station has a supply of used items, sizes not guaranteed

Cooperation Station provides a lot of this gear as an option for families, though you are welcome
to bring gear from home instead of, or in addition to ours. Please be sure all garments from home
are labeled with your child’s name. While stormy and/or extremely cold days will sometimes keep
us inside, parents can assume that most days their child will be outside discovering more about
themselves and nature.

Messy Play
We believe in promoting exploration in play and sometimes that can get messy. Students will be
encouraged to play in mud, water, snow, grass, art materials, and other messy materials. Please
understand that the caregivers will try to prevent clothes from getting stained, but staining is
always a possibility. Please do not have your child wear clothing on which a stain would be
upsetting to you or your child. It is important to provide an entire set or two of extra clothing to be
left at the Cooperation Station in case a change is needed. Comfortable and casual clothing is
best!

Nutrition
Cooperation Station serves breakfast, lunch, and snack daily, and we believe that serving
nutritious meals is vital to the physical and emotional well-being of the children we serve. Every
day we proudly provide 4-5 servings of fruits and vegetables, 2 servings of milk, and 2 servings of
whole grains to the kids in our program. We follow best practices in child nutrition, and, whenever
possible, avoid juice, fried food, processed meats, and limit processed food. We receive a 30%
discount on fresh produce from the Cook County Whole Foods Co-op to buy a portion of our
produce organic and fresh. We also buy some organic, free-range meats at a 20% discount from
the Co-op. Milk is served at breakfast and lunch. Water is available throughout the day. For more
best practices regarding feeding children, please see Appendix L.

Birthday Celebrations
If your child wants to celebrate a birthday with a snack use your best judgment in the snack you
bring. Reach out for current allergies and suggestions. Some popular examples of more balanced
snacks include: carrot/apple/pumpkin muffins, veggies and hummus, berries and whipped cream,
yogurt parfaits, and cheese crackers. Special snacks for birthdays are completely optional and
the choice of the parent. Please DO NOT distribute birthday party invitations at Cooperation
Station unless every single child is invited. Similarly, do not leave birthday presents at Cooperation
Station for a child to take to a party that day.

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Family Style Meals
Family style serving supports independence, social skills, and healthy eating. Family style meals
are considered to be “Best Practice” for teaching lifelong healthy eating. With that, we also
institute and maintain the Division of Responsibility in Feeding from Ellyn Satter:

Providers or parents decide what, when, where the kids eat, kids decide how much and if.
Our mealtime routine:
- Involve interested children in food prep, putting the chairs around the table, and setting out
the bin of utensils and plates.
- Put food, milk (or water), and a towel for spills on the table so children and adults can
serve family style.
- Children can pick out their plate, cup, and utensil and begin to serve themselves. When
possible, one provider sits at the table with a plate as well and eats to model good serving
and eating habits.
- Adults can encourage conversation at the table.
- Providers may encourage children to try new foods, however the child will decide how
much or if they will eat.
- Providers will not use guilt, shame, bargaining or pressure to encourage children to eat.

When two or more children are finished, they can ask to be excused. Students will be encouraged
to remain at the table to engage in conversation with their peers but will never be forced or
pressured to eat more.

Breastfeeding
We recognize and value the many nutritional and personal benefits of breastfeeding for parents
and children. We support breastfeeding at Cooperation Station by welcoming parents to nurse or
pump at the daycare. We also encourage you to bring in expressed milk labeled with name and
date, and we follow current standards for handling, storage, and labeling. We include images of
breastfeeding in our family books and materials. Please let us know of your bottle feeding or
nursing schedule and procedures.

Toys From Home

Cooperation Station is prepared with toys and materials to meet the needs of the children and to
complement the curriculum. We ask that you please keep all personal toys at home or in the car.
Toys brought from home present potential problems in that they are difficult to share and may get
broken or lost. Please note that children who need a security item such as a blanket or stuffed toy
during nap time are welcome to bring that item and use it during resting time or as needed.

Prohibited Items
For the safety of all children in care of Cooperation Station, necklaces (including amber teething
necklaces) and water beads are prohibited. There have been deaths and serious injuries
associated with these items and they will not be allowed while your child is at Cooperation
Station. If you have questions regarding these items, please ask the providers.

Diapering

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Families will be responsible for providing diapers or pull ups and wipes for your child. Cloth
diapers are welcome and must be labeled with your child’s name. Providers are not able to rinse
or clean cloth diapers or soiled clothes. Following licensing rules, wet and/or soiled clothes or
cloth diapers will be put directly into a bag and sent home to be washed. Please send a wet bag
for soiled cloth diapers and take them home daily.
Donations of wipes and diapers are always welcome!

Toilet Learning
Few things are more individually variable than a child's timetable for learning to use a toilet
independently. When a child indicates physical and emotional readiness and a parent indicates
they are ready as well, Cooperation Staff will encourage and provide opportunities for children to
learn to use the toilet. We understand that for some children this learning will come easily and for
some it will be a long and extended process. It is essential that staff and parents communicate
openly about their expectations for this and that all involved remain patient and always
understand that it is the child who will ultimately decide "readiness" and "willingness." The use of
diapers vs. underwear vs. pull-ups should be discussed and mutually agreed upon by parents
and caregivers. Please provide ample clothing for changing if multiple wetting or soiling is
possible. Following licensing rules, wet and/or soiled clothes or cloth diapers will be put directly
into a plastic bag and sealed and sent home to be washed.

Publicity
We may take and post photos of the children during various activities. This is one way of helping
the children remember special moments and a way for parents to better see what we are doing
each day. Additionally, we show appreciation to our community partners by using social media to
highlight activities and the fantastic experiences our children engage in. Similarly, we support
parents occasionally taking their own photos for their own private use. We will ask for written
permission to take photos for in-house use, post photos on our website, and on our Facebook
page. Occasionally we may ask your permission to use your child's photo in a press release or
other publicity formats. See Appendix B: Permission to Post.

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 Part 4: Sensitive Issues

Adult Behavior
It is the expectation of everyone affiliated with Cooperation Station that all children, staff and
parents are treated respectfully at all times. It is our expectation that all parents will be respectful
of not only their own child, but of all the children and adults present at the daycare. Parents are
encouraged to provide enough time for a smooth (not rushed) transition both at drop-off and
pick-up times.

Generally, it is best at drop-off time for a parent to help a child remove outer garments and put
any belongings away, assist them in initiating an activity and/or talking with a peer or caregiver,
greet and discuss any relevant information with the caregiver, and then say goodbye and leave.
Most children will stop crying within a few minutes. Extended goodbyes are much more difficult
for children. Staff will help children develop goodbye routines. If you need help with separating
from a child at drop-off time, please ask a provider. Often children like to wave goodbye from the
kitchen window.

At pick-up time, parents are encouraged to communicate with the caregiver(s) about the day's
activities, their child's interest, energy level, etc., and/or future activities planned.

Confidentiality
Information that families share about their child or family is kept confidential amongst the
caregivers and, if absolutely necessary, may be shared with one or more Board members. Staff
members will not discuss a child with anyone except that child's family. Please do not ask
caregivers to share information about other specific children's behaviors or activities. Similarly,
parents are expected to keep any information that they acquire or observe about another family to
be kept confidential. It is far too easy to make wrong assumptions based on brief observations or
partial conversations overheard. Parents are strongly urged to be respectful of all families at all
times. Discussing other children or parents with caregivers or other parents is inappropriate.

Driving While Intoxicated

If a caregiver suspects a parent or adult who is picking up a child by car is under the influence of
alcohol or any other drug, they will encourage you to use alternate methods of transportation.
Law Enforcement will be called if the adult insists on driving under the influence.

Reporting Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect (Parents or Staff)

Minnesota law requires our caregivers to report any suspicious of child abuse or neglect, as
defined by the state Statute. Similarly, if a parent/guardian suspects a caregiver or another adult
of child abuse or neglect, s/he may also contact Child Protection Services. If this situation occurs,
s/he is strongly encouraged (but not required) to also contact the Board Chair immediately.

Developmental Concerns
Cooperation Station makes a priority of helping each child develop to his/her fullest potential.
Occasionally, a caregiver may have concerns about the developmental progress of a child. Again,
open and honest communication between families and caregiver is essential. When appropriate,

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Cooperation Station staff will support and assist families with medical and/or developmental
specialists' referrals, assessments and/or intervention services.

Discrimination Against Children with Special Needs

The Americans with Disabilities Act (1993) prohibits child care programs from denying care simply
because a child has a disability. Each child's needs must be evaluated on an individual basis to
determine whether a program can reasonably accommodate the child's needs. Cooperation
Station endorses the mutual benefit of inclusion of children with special needs and is committed
to working together with families and other service providers to best benefit the health, safety and
welfare of all of the children. Ongoing communication, flexibility and cooperative problem solving
are critical to successful inclusion of all children.

Smoking
Smoking is prohibited inside Cooperation Station or on the grounds by any staff member or other
adults. Please DO NOT leave cigarette butts or related garbage on Cooperation Station grounds.

Policy on Grievance
Any family member, employee or Board member has the right to have a grievance not
satisfactorily handled between individuals to be reviewed by an Ad Hoc Grievance Committee and
a final answer given to the question no sooner than one week and no later than one month after
the grievance has been submitted in writing. See Appendix H for full grievance policy.

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 Part 5: Health Policies

Admission and Exclusion of Ill Children

Refer to Appendix F for a list of our guidelines for when a child can/should not be brought to
Cooperation Station due to illness. These guidelines are set by the Minnesota Department of
Health. If a child becomes ill while at Cooperation Station, parents/guardians/emergency contacts
will be called. It is expected that the child will be picked up immediately. Families will be notified
through the communication app when children have been exposed to contagious diseases like
pink eye, strep throat, etc. Families are required to notify providers within 24 hours of
confirmed/diagnosed contagious illness or parasitic infestation

Medications
Medically prescribed medications and “over the counter” medications may be administered by
Cooperation Station staff as long as the medication is in the original container and there is a
written parent/guardian note detailing the exact time and amount of medication to be given.

Water Bottles
Cooperation Station provides water bottles for each child for their use at school. The water is
replaced daily, and the water bottles are washed weekly. The children are encouraged to stop
and get a drink whenever they are thirsty. Good hydration is important especially because of how
active their play is.

Sunscreen
Families are responsible for providing sunscreen. Please apply sunscreen to your child before the
start of their day at Cooperation Station, or ensure that they have proper SPF-rated clothing to
wear for outdoor play. Providers will apply sunscreen before going outside and reapply when
needed. Staff will administer sunscreen to all children who have permission. At the beginning of
summer we ask each family to bring in 30 or over SPF sunscreen for general use. If you wish for
your child to wear a specific sunscreen, please make sure that all staff are aware and have posted
it on the refrigerator.

Sun Hats
Cooperation Station owns a classroom set of sun hats. One hat will be assigned to each child
and labeled with each child’s name to prevent the spread of possible head lice.

Bug Spray
Families are responsible for providing bug spray. Insect repellent clothing, such as neck gaiters
are encouraged.

Sanitation and Hygiene

Cooperation Station staff try to lessen the spread of germs as much as possible, though it must
be understood this is an inevitable phenomena in a group care setting. Recommended practices
for daily washing of materials, tables and other shared items will be followed by staff as much as
possible. Children and staff are expected to wash their hands after toileting, before meals and at
other times as appropriate.

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Oral Hygiene
As children show interest and readiness, they will be invited to engage in daily teeth-brushing.
Each child has a personal toothbrush. Staff distribute toothpaste portions and children brush their
own teeth with guidance from staff. Brushing is encouraged once a day, either after breakfast or
after lunch.

First Aid
All permanent Cooperation Station staff have taken First Aid training. Basic first aid will be
administered if necessary. This includes washing and applying a band aid. Ice will also be
provided when necessary.

Incident Reporting
If a more significant injury occurs than a superficial cut or slight bump, a parent/guardian phone
call will be made. Written documentation of the incident will be made by the staff, and placed in
the incident file. In event of minor injury, families will be notified at pick-up.

Serious Injuries or Illness Requiring Medical or Dental Care

If a serious injury occurs that requires immediate medical or dental care, a parent/guardian
contact will be made immediately. Cooperation Station staff will request ambulance service for
transportation if deemed necessary. This cost may be billed to parent/guardians (or their
insurance agency).

Emergency Evacuation Plan and Drills

Fire drills are required once per month. Storm drills are required once per month from
April-September.

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 Part 6: Membership Benefits and Obligations

Members: All families who are currently attending Cooperation Station on a contracted basis are
members of the daycare cooperative.

Community building: Cooperation Station is a community. We encourage families to get to know

one another, host family events, and support each other in this parenting adventure. We also host
opportunities on-site to build community among families and staff through parent training and
enrichment events as well as occasional potlucks to celebrate and just enjoy one another’s
company. Family members may also join the Board of Directors.

Board of Directors: As outlined in the Corporation Bylaws, the Board of Directors consists of 5-10
members. Over half of the Board Members shall be parent members. The Board meets monthly,
and responsibilities include:
- Conducting yearly staff reviews and hiring new staff
- Overseeing budget, income, and expenses with providers
- Carrying out yearly fundraising plan
- Supporting providers in programming decisions
- Monitoring upkeep of daycare house and property

Board meetings are open to all parents unless the Board Chair calls a meeting (or portions of a
meeting) closed to discuss confidential issues relevant to an individual family or staff member. If
interested in joining the Board, please reach out to an active board member.

The Board of Directors are elected annually by the members (i.e., families) Board Members, term
dates and corresponding contact information will be posted near the door. Board meeting
agendas and minutes will also be posted near the entryway each month. Check your family’s
cubby each day for notes and notices. The agenda will include an opportunity for any parent to
address the Board and share any concerns, suggestions and/or provide generative feedback.
Such comments may also be provided to a Board member privately. It is the Board member's
responsibility to share the information with the rest of the Board if it is deemed necessary and/or
appropriate. A parent may request anonymity in these situations, but open communication is
strongly encouraged. There is a “Comment Box” in the front entry.

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 Part 7: Contract Information
Child Care Fees

● All families who contract for care are members.

● Drop-ins for non-members without a contract must pay cash or check at either drop-off or
pick-up.
● A $1/minute fee will be charged for early drop-offs and late pick-ups.

Type of Service Member Non-Member

(Contract) (Non-contract)
Rate Rate

Before and/or $12/day $12/day

After School (only
during school
year)

½ Day* Full Day ½ Day* Full Day

Full day care $-- $48 $-- $48

*1/2 day: 7:40-12:00 or 12:30-5:15.

Currently we are not contracting for 1/2 day care, but are still allowing 1/2 day drop-in spots
when available.

Payment Policies

Members are billed in cycles covering 2-week periods.

Invoices for these 2-week cycles will be emailed via Brightwheel 1 week prior to the due date.
Payment for the number of contracted days is due before the first day of the cycle. Payments may
be made to Cooperation Station via online payment through Brightwheel or check. For example,
contracted days’ tuition for the cycle October 7 – November 3 is due by October 7th. Any fees
owed from the prior cycle for additional "drop-in" days and/or Late Penalty Fees will be invoiced
separately once that cycle has ended.

Cooperation Station is a non-profit corporation. Like any other business, we need to pay our staff,
bills, and save for future improvements, scheduled maintenance, and unforeseen circumstances.
Therefore, it is important that your bills are paid on time. If your bill is not paid by the end of the
first week in the cycle, you will receive a notice to pay your bill in full or set up a payment plan, or
your contract will be terminated in 2 weeks. Overdue bills must be paid off whether or not you are
still attending care.

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If you cannot pay your bill due to unforeseen circumstances, please contact Cooperation Station
promptly. The finance committee will meet with you to determine if a short-term ​payment plan is
possible.

Financial Assistance Options:

Child Care Assistance Program: Families may qualify for help with child care costs through this
State funded program. Limited funding may be available. Contact Cook County Public Health and
Human Services for more information:
Cook County Courthouse
411 W. 2nd Street
Grand Marais, MN 55604
Phone: 218.387.3620
Email: IM@co.cook.mn.us

Early Learning Scholarships, through the Parent Aware rating system, give eligible families financial
support to help pay for high-quality early childhood care and education to prepare their young
children for school. The scholarship amount is up to $5,000 for a 12 month period. The Early
Learning Scholarship must be used at a Minnesota child care or early learning program that is a 3
or 4 star-rated Parent Aware program (CS is currently 3-Star rated). Learn more or apply at
https://northlandfdn.org/special-initiatives/index.php. If interested, please talk to the providers
about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Late Pick-Up Fee

Staff hours are over at 5:15 pm. Plan to arrive soon enough to allow adequate time for you and
your child to be out the door by 5:15. Late pick-ups should not occur, but if unavoidable please
call ahead so staff can make other arrangements if they are not able to stay until you get there.

If pick-up occurs later than 5:15 by our clock, a ten-minute grace period will follow for the first late
arrival. Upon a second late arrival the penalty fee will be $1/minute. A late pick-up notice will be
filled out by the provider and parent/guardian, and any late pick-up fee will be billed to the family.

If the parent/guardian wishes to dispute the late pick-up circumstances, the issue should be
discussed with the Treasurer or Board Chair.

Before Your Child Begins

- Set up a time to tour the daycare with the providers and discuss your childcare needs and
goals.
- Turn in all enrollment paperwork.
- Visit the daycare a few times with your child so she/he is familiar with the space and staff.
This will ease the transition once regular care starts.

Your Contract
See your enrollment packet for the contract. This must be completed and signed by a
parent/guardian and the Primary Provider in order to be in effect. A trial period of two weeks

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follows the date which care began. At the end of the trial period the family may change or
terminate their contract without being held to the two week change/termination notice. Specific
days of care are contracted and must be paid, whether or not the child is in attendance.
Exceptions to this rule are outlined below.

Additional Days
Additional days of childcare beyond what is contracted may be provided if there is space available
at the current member drop-in rate. You will be charged for absences of scheduled “additional”
days.

Changing Your Contract

If you need to change your childcare schedule, contact the Primary Provider at least 2 weeks
before the scheduled change. If the change is possible (i.e. there is space on the days you would
like to switch to or add) you will fill out a new Childcare Contract form. If the change begins
mid-month, the changes will be reflected on your next bill as “additional day/s.”

*All contract changes must be in writing and signed by the parent/guardian and the Primary
Provider.

The providers will contact families periodically to discuss contract changes that correspond to the
school calendar (i.e.: summer care for school-aged children).

Cooperation Station does not allow temporary changes to a contract to accommodate absences
for a family vacations or other short term schedule changes. This includes school holidays,
breaks, and summer vacation. If your child will be absent for an extended period of time, with the
hope of returning to a regularly scheduled contract, payments must continue in order to keep
your child’s contracted spot. Extraordinary circumstances may be discussed with the Primary
Provider.

Terminating Your Contract

Your child care contract may be terminated with two weeks’ notice. Any balance owed must be
paid upon termination of your contract. Any surplus in payment will be reimbursed if appropriate.

Past Due Accounts

Past due balances owed by both members and non-members who no longer receive care at
Cooperation Station will be sought for payment. Families will first be contacted (via email or
phone) regarding their remaining balance and given an opportunity to pay or set up a payment
plan. If payment is not made after family contact, the collection process will be initiated through
Minnesota Judicial Branch's Conciliation Court (Small Claims Court). Families will be responsible
to pay for any court fees (ex. filing fees) in addition to their past due balance.

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Absences
Cooperation Station asks that you call as soon as you are aware that your child will be absent.
This greatly assists staff in planning the day’s activities, outings, and meals. Payment must be
made for absences on both contracted days and “add-on” days.

Vacation time
Cooperation Station does not provide vacation time for families.

Waitlist and Seniority

When space becomes available, priority will be given in this order, with discretion to the providers
to properly fill the roster:
(*note that space is dependent on age of child due to licensing ratios)
1. Children of current employees and Board members
2. Siblings of current children who are are up-to-date on payments
3. Children with part-time contracts in need of additional spot/s who are up-to-date on
payments
4. Top of waitlist (first come, first served)
5. Families requesting full day, full time care
6. Families requesting full day care

Payment history will be considered before enrolling siblings or past members.

Current Roster Priorities

With a growing and aging program, many families are in need of after school and full day summer
care, and we are not always able to accommodate all of these needs based on licensing
requirements. Like our waitlist, we will give priority to current families as follows:
1. Children of current employees and Board Members
2. Families requesting full-time afterschool/summer care (M-F)
3. Families requesting part-time afterschool/summer care
4. Siblings of full day children who are up-to-date on payments
5. Length of enrollment history

Changes to These Policies

Changes to these policies can be made with a 2/3 approval by the Board. All members will
receive written notification of proposed changes at least two weeks prior to a Board vote.

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