Petra's P.L.A.C.E.
Positive Learning And Caring Environment
(805) 922-4609
License # 421708322
Telephone: (805) 922-4609*
*Please only call between 7:30am - 6pm
Ages: 18 months - 8 years old
Programs: Full time, part time care, Head Start & Government Programs
Hours: 7:30am - 5:30pm
Holidays: New Years Day, Martin Luther King Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, as well as Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Program Philosophy
We believe that a positive self-image is the groundwork to all learning, and therefore we work to foster this principle in each child. Children are encouraged to develop individuality and self-reliance. They are allowed to grow and learn at their present level of development, and they are allowed time and opportunity for social, emotional and intellectual growth. Planned within the framework of philosophy and purpose, the curriculum includes stories, songs and finger plays, creative art activities, small and large muscle activities, field trips (on foot) and visitors, food preparation, science and nature activities. Emphasis is placed on the Montessori method with the usage of Montessori materials. Holidays are incorporated with other related activities.
Facilities
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Puppet Theater: This area gives children the opportunity to use their imagination, as well as their language. Social skills such as taking turns, listening to one another and helping each other out are also fostered here. Because this area is somewhat secluded it gives the child who may need a little time to him or herself that option. |
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Sink: Here the children get to pretend to do the things they see adults do, be a mom or dad, sibling, uncle, aunt, even cats or dogs just to name a few of their favorite role-playing characters. This is an important part of the child’s life because this is one way s/he is learning about the world around them. It is also a great opportunity to work through any stress they may experience, such as having to hurry that morning, or not liking a barrette in their hair (this type of information is very helpful to us by the way because the smallest things to an adult can be a huge ordeal to a child, so we like to help them work through their frustration so they can be free to learn). Besides role-playing, the children also perform task here such as washing dishes, sweeping floors and other practical life functions. |
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Patterning: Patterning is a much needed skill for developing math concepts. Materials to develop this and other needed skills are available for children to use and work with throughout the day. This work helps children develop the skills needed for math as well as reading and writing. It challenges their thinking and also helps them develop fine motor skills. While doing this work children are developing concentration, self-discipline and self-assurance. |
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Water Table: Water, what child does not like to play with water? Well, since we are also in the business of educating and helping them to grow social emotionally as well as cognitively this water table serves the purpose of introducing children to math and science as well as fostering their communication and cooperation skills. This is a fun place to work together. It’s an opportunity to learn to work out problems with one another. |
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Tire Swing: Still one of the most important places to be is outside. Here children are using their large muscles to unload energy and gain further control of their body and themselves. It is a place where they learn about nature and nurturing in a natural setting. I chose the tire swing because of its multi functions in the child’s development. By the age of three most children can manipulate it on their own, therefore it boosts their self-esteem; the motion of going round and round increases brain development; the space for several children encourages cooperation; and best of all it’s a lot of fun! |
 Computer Area |
 Group Area |
 Manipulatives |
 Reading Area |
Safety
All persons picking up children must be on your authorized written list. In the event of an emergency, a telephone call will be accepted. We cannot be in the middle of a custody dispute. If there is a valid restraining order in effect I must have a copy for your child's file. Children up to the age of 6 or 60 pounds of weight are required to be in a proper car/booster seat. Children will not be released to anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Without the appropriate use of car seats, or the driver's use of alcohol or drugs, an unsafe transportation situation for children may occur. If the person insists on taking the child in such cases, we are required by law to report it to the police and we will do so.
Since we cannot see the front yard, children should be with you at all times when coming to school or leaving school. For the safety of all children, please take an extra moment to make sure all gates are securely closed and latched as you leave.
Nutrition
We provide a morning snack, lunch and an afternoon "dinner". Breakfast is served at 9:30am, lunch at 11:45am and "dinner" at 3:45pm. Since we are part of the State Food Program, we follow their general nutritional guidelines. Whenever possible, meals are served 'family style'; children serve themselves and learn the ways of sharing conversation and passing food to one another. They are also taught to rinse their dishes when they are through. We want mealtime to be a comprehensive experience.
My Qualifications
I have operated Petra's PLACE, which is considered a Family Child Care Home, at the same location since 1978. During this time I have earned an A.A. and A.S. Degree in Early Childhood Studies from Allan Hancock College and I am currently working on my Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood through the University of LaVerne. I have taken Montessori classes to the level of 3-6 year olds, plus some of the Montessori Elementary classes. I am a member of the Santa Maria Association of Family Child Care Providers. I also maintain membership with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). I work closely with the local Resource and Referral Center, and continue to participate in workshops and conferences. In addition I am a Head Start participant, which means I run an inclusive program and participate in their trainings.
Enrollment
We provide care Monday through Friday, 7:30am - 5:30pm. The age range is 18 months to 8 years old. It is very helpful for children to arrive by 9:30am. This will offer your child the quality time during our teaching units, as well as helping to keep interruption to a minimum during learning activities.
All forms must be completed before a child can be accepted into the program. Information must be kept current; please let me know of any changes as soon as possible. Immunization records must also be up to date. I will do my best to assist you with the maintenance of these records.
Parents are welcome to visit any time. If your child is unable to attend, a telephone call is appreciated. Please call between 7:30am and 6:00pm unless it is an emergency or prearranged. Your child's friends will be curious when he/she is absent. A call allows us to talk with them about the absence, and it gives them a sense of family caring.
Tuition
Tuition is due weekly. It is to be paid no later than Monday for that week of care. You are paying to hold a space for your child's attendance; therefore payment is in full whether your child is ill or misses school for any reason.
Extended (one week or more) periods of time for vacations, etc., are payable at half the regular fee with a two-week written notice. Otherwise the full fee is charged in order to maintain your child's space. I will provide a substitute during my absences, so you need not worry about emergency care. A Registration fee will be charged every September.
There wil be a $25.00 fee for returned checks. After two returned checks, payment must be made in cash or cashiers check.
Health
Rest time is between 1:00pm - 3:00pm. This time gives your child an opportunity to relax, reflect and re-energize. Children who are attending 1st grade and up will rest until 2:00pm. During rest time we do listen to story tapes and/or relaxing music.
We do not offer care for ill children. If your child has had a temperature of 101 degrees, experienced recurrent diarrhea or vomiting within 24 hours, you will need to find alternative care. We are not licensed to give medication to children. If you choose to give your child medication prior to arrival, please also inform us, so we can be aware of side effects that may occur.
If you are notified that your child is too ill to remain in class, please pick him/her up as soon as possible.
In the event of an injury you will be notified immediately. If you cannot be reached, the physician listed on your emergency form will be called. As well as a signed consent form for my files, I recommend that you also provide your physician/hospital with a signed consent form, so that your child will have access to prompt medical treatment. Always keep your personal information updated!
I need to be informed of all illnesses, including those that occur over the weekends and any communicable diseases within your family. This information will help us provide your child and the other children with a healthy environment.
All children in attendance must be healthy enough to participate in all activities; therefore if a child is not allowed to play outside, please do not bring them to the Child Care Home.
General Information
For the benefit of the children, parents please let us know if there are any problems or unusual circumstances that may be adversely affecting your child: situations such as family moving, death in the family, lost pet, divorce, etc. I would like to provide an emotionally supportive, yet neutral environment. The more of these situations we know about and can incorporate into teachable moments through our lessons or interactions, the more outlets your child will have to express their feelings. Specifics will never be discussed and such information will be kept strictly confidential.
A bulletin board is located next to the small gate before entering the back yard. I will post any important information and reminders to keep you informed of our goings-on.
Our classroom space is very limited. I need your co-operation by sending belongings to school that fit into your child's cubby. Please avoid sending backpacks unless absolutely necessary. The storage space is very limited and reserved for school-age children. Possessions should be labeled.
In order for Petra's PLACE to continue to grow, it is very important that the neighbors' driveways be respected and that parking be done only in legal areas. Please do not double park or block the driveways.
My door is open for suggestions and discussions of my program. Never hesitate, if you would like to offer ideas, you may. As life is an adventure, we are always willing to try something new!