Terms Of Service

# Terms of Service

## Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care

Effective Date: January 1, 2025

Last Updated: January 1, 2025

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## 1. Introduction and Agreement

These Terms of Service ("Terms," "Agreement") constitute a legally binding contract between Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care ("we," "us," "our," "the Center," or "the Facility") and the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) ("you," "your," "Parent," or "Guardian") of the child or children enrolled in our childcare and early education programs.

Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care is a licensed childcare facility located at 5820 2nd Street Northwest, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87107, operating under the authority of the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department. We provide bilingual early childhood education and care services for children from 6 weeks to 4 years old, with our mission being "Where Care Creates Confidence" and our commitment to "Empowering Young Minds, Elevating Futures."

By enrolling your child in our program, completing enrollment paperwork, paying enrollment fees, or utilizing our services in any capacity, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service, along with our Privacy Policy and any additional policies and procedures that may be implemented from time to time. These Terms supersede any previous agreements or understandings between the parties regarding the subject matter herein.

## 2. Enrollment and Admission

### 2.1 Enrollment Process and Requirements

Enrollment at Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care is contingent upon completion of all required documentation and compliance with our admission requirements. The enrollment process includes submission of a completed enrollment application, current immunization records as required by New Mexico state law, emergency contact information, medical history and special needs documentation, signed acknowledgment of policies and procedures, and payment of all required fees and deposits.

All children must meet age-appropriate requirements for their designated classroom: Baby Room (6 weeks to 1 year old), Toddler Room (1 to 2 years old), or Preschool Room (3 to 4 years old). We reserve the right to determine appropriate classroom placement based on the child's developmental needs, social readiness, and available space, regardless of chronological age.

### 2.2 Enrollment Capacity and Waiting Lists

Due to our commitment to maintaining appropriate teacher-to-child ratios and providing quality care, enrollment spots are limited. We maintain waiting lists when enrollment capacity is reached, and families are contacted in the order they were placed on the waiting list as spaces become available. Placement on a waiting list does not guarantee enrollment, and we reserve the right to consider factors such as age-appropriate classroom availability, sibling enrollment, and program needs when making enrollment decisions.

### 2.3 Non-Discrimination Policy

Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care does not discriminate in enrollment, care, or educational services on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We are committed to providing inclusive, culturally responsive care that celebrates diversity and ensures all children and families feel valued and respected.

### 2.4 Trial Period and Adjustment

We recognize that starting childcare can be a significant transition for both children and families. We offer a reasonable trial period during which both parties can assess whether our program is a good fit for the child's needs. During this period, either party may terminate the enrollment agreement with appropriate notice as specified in the termination section of these Terms.

## 3. Services and Programs

### 3.1 Core Childcare Services

Our comprehensive childcare services are designed to provide a safe, nurturing, and educationally enriching environment for children in our care. Core services include supervised care during operating hours, age-appropriate educational activities and curriculum, nutritious meals and snacks (where applicable), diaper changing and toileting assistance as needed, rest time and quiet activities, indoor and outdoor play opportunities, and regular communication with families about their child's daily activities and progress.

### 3.2 Educational Programs by Age Group

Baby Room (6 weeks to 1 year old) - "Imagination in Motion": Our infant program focuses on building trust through responsive caregiving, providing one-on-one attention to foster social-emotional growth, maintaining safe sleep practices and hygiene protocols, offering age-appropriate stimulation through songs, soft toys, and tummy time, and providing regular updates to parents about feeding, sleep, mood, and developmental milestones.

Toddler Room (1 to 2 years old) - "Hands-On Learning": Our toddler program emphasizes imaginative, hands-on learning experiences, storytelling and dramatic play activities, support for emotional regulation and self-control development, collaborative planning with parents for consistency, and respect for diversity to ensure all toddlers feel valued and included.

Preschool Room (3 to 4 years old) - "Artistic Expression": Our preschool program encourages creativity through open-ended arts and crafts, storytelling and exploratory play, structured routines and well-organized learning spaces, clear learning goals and smooth transitions, social and emotional development support, celebration of diversity and cultural backgrounds, and preparation for future educational experiences.

### 3.3 Bilingual Programming

As a bilingual program, we provide instruction and communication in both English and Spanish to support children's language development and cultural identity. Our bilingual approach includes daily exposure to both languages through songs, stories, and conversations, culturally responsive teaching that honors children's home languages and traditions, support for families who prefer communication in Spanish, and preparation for success in diverse educational environments.

### 3.4 Special Needs and Individualized Support

We are committed to providing inclusive care for children with special needs and developmental differences. Our approach includes collaboration with families to develop individualized care plans, coordination with outside specialists and therapists as needed, modification of activities and environments to support all learners, regular assessment and adjustment of support strategies, and advocacy for children's needs in educational and community settings.

## 4. Operating Hours and Schedule

### 4.1 Regular Operating Hours

Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care operates Monday through Friday from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM. We are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as on designated holidays and professional development days. Our operating schedule is designed to accommodate working families while ensuring adequate time for facility maintenance, staff planning, and regulatory compliance activities.

### 4.2 Holiday and Closure Schedule

We observe major holidays and may close for staff training, facility maintenance, or other operational needs. Families will receive at least two weeks' advance notice of planned closures whenever possible. Holiday and closure schedules are provided annually, and families are expected to make alternative childcare arrangements during these periods. Tuition rates remain the same regardless of closures for holidays or other scheduled facility closures.

### 4.3 Late Pickup Policy

Children must be picked up by our closing time of 5:30 PM. Late pickup creates staffing challenges and additional costs for our facility. Parents who arrive after closing time will be charged a late pickup fee as specified in our fee schedule. Repeated late pickups may result in termination of enrollment. In cases of emergency or unexpected delays, parents should contact the facility immediately to make arrangements.

### 4.4 Early Closure and Emergency Closures

In cases of severe weather, emergency situations, or other circumstances beyond our control, we may need to close early or remain closed for safety reasons. We will make every effort to notify families as soon as possible through multiple communication channels including phone calls, text messages, and email notifications. Families are responsible for making arrangements for early pickup or alternative care during emergency closures.

## 5. Fees, Payment, and Financial Policies

### 5.1 Tuition and Fee Structure

Tuition rates are established annually and are based on the age of the child, program type, and enrollment schedule. Our fee structure includes weekly or monthly tuition payments, registration fees for new enrollments, annual re-enrollment fees for continuing families, and additional fees for optional services or extended care when available. Current fee schedules are provided during the enrollment process and are subject to change with appropriate notice.

### 5.2 Payment Terms and Methods

Tuition payments are due in advance according to the payment schedule established in your enrollment agreement. We accept payment by cash, check, money order, or electronic payment methods as available. All payments must be received by the due date to avoid late fees and potential service interruption. Returned checks or failed electronic payments will result in additional fees and may require future payments to be made by cash or money order only.

### 5.3 Late Payment and Collection Policies

Late payments will result in late fees as specified in our fee schedule. Accounts that become significantly past due may result in suspension of childcare services until the account is brought current. We reserve the right to pursue collection of unpaid balances through appropriate legal means, and families are responsible for all costs associated with collection efforts, including reasonable attorney fees and court costs.

### 5.4 Refund and Credit Policies

Tuition payments are generally non-refundable once services have been provided. In cases of extended illness, family emergencies, or other extraordinary circumstances, we may consider partial credits or adjustments on a case-by-case basis. Registration fees and deposits are non-refundable except as required by law. Families who withdraw from our program are responsible for providing appropriate notice as specified in the termination section of these Terms.

### 5.5 Financial Assistance and Subsidies

We participate in various childcare assistance programs and accept subsidies from qualified families. Families receiving assistance are responsible for any co-payments or fees not covered by the assistance program. Changes in assistance eligibility or benefit amounts must be reported immediately, and families remain responsible for any resulting balance due.

## 6. Health and Safety Policies

### 6.1 Health Requirements and Immunizations

All children must meet New Mexico state immunization requirements before enrollment and must maintain current immunizations throughout their enrollment period. Families are responsible for providing updated immunization records as required and for ensuring their child receives regular medical checkups as recommended by their healthcare provider. Children with compromised immune systems or special health needs must provide additional medical documentation and care instructions from their physician.

### 6.2 Illness and Exclusion Policies

To protect the health of all children and staff, we maintain strict illness exclusion policies. Children who exhibit symptoms of illness including fever, vomiting, diarrhea, persistent cough, unusual rashes, or other contagious conditions must be excluded from care until they are symptom-free for the required period as specified in our health policies. Parents will be contacted immediately if their child becomes ill during the day and must arrange for prompt pickup.

### 6.3 Medication Administration

We will administer prescription medications only with written authorization from parents and specific instructions from the child's physician. All medications must be in original containers with current labels, and we maintain detailed records of all medication administration. Over-the-counter medications require written parental consent and physician approval. We do not administer medications that are expired or improperly labeled.

### 6.4 Emergency Medical Care

In case of medical emergency, we will immediately contact emergency medical services and attempt to notify parents or emergency contacts. We are authorized to seek emergency medical treatment for children in our care when parents cannot be reached immediately. Families are responsible for all costs associated with emergency medical care, and we strongly recommend maintaining current health insurance coverage for all enrolled children.

### 6.5 Incident Reporting and Documentation

All incidents, injuries, or unusual occurrences involving children in our care are documented according to state licensing requirements. Parents are notified immediately of any significant incidents, and written incident reports are provided as required. We maintain confidential records of all incidents and cooperate with any investigations by licensing authorities or other agencies as required by law.

### 6.6 Safety Protocols and Procedures

Our facility maintains comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry and exit procedures, regular safety drills for fire, severe weather, and lockdown situations, background checks for all staff members as required by state law, regular inspection and maintenance of playground equipment and facilities, and implementation of safe sleep practices for infants in accordance with current guidelines.

## 7. Behavior Expectations and Discipline Policies

### 7.1 Positive Behavior Support Philosophy

We believe in positive behavior support strategies that help children develop self-regulation skills, social competence, and emotional intelligence. Our approach emphasizes teaching appropriate behaviors, providing clear and consistent expectations, using natural consequences and logical problem-solving, celebrating positive choices and achievements, and working collaboratively with families to support consistent behavior expectations.

### 7.2 Prohibited Discipline Methods

We strictly prohibit the use of corporal punishment, verbal abuse, humiliation, or any form of physical or emotional harm as discipline methods. We do not use isolation as punishment, withhold food or basic needs, or use any discipline methods that could be harmful to a child's physical or emotional well-being. Our discipline policies comply with all state licensing regulations and professional early childhood education standards.

### 7.3 Challenging Behavior Intervention

When children exhibit challenging behaviors, we work closely with families to develop appropriate intervention strategies. This may include behavioral observation and documentation, consultation with early childhood behavior specialists, development of individualized behavior support plans, regular communication with families about progress and strategies, and referral to outside resources when appropriate.

### 7.4 Suspension and Termination for Behavioral Concerns

In rare cases where a child's behavior poses a significant safety risk to themselves or others, or when behavioral interventions have not been successful, we may need to consider suspension or termination of enrollment. Such decisions are made only after extensive consultation with families, documentation of intervention attempts, and consideration of all available resources and alternatives.

## 8. Parent and Family Responsibilities

### 8.1 Communication and Cooperation

Families are expected to maintain open and respectful communication with our staff, provide accurate and complete information about their child's needs, respond promptly to requests for information or meetings, participate in parent conferences and educational opportunities when possible, and notify us immediately of any changes in contact information, emergency contacts, or family circumstances.

### 8.2 Pickup and Drop-off Procedures

Only authorized individuals listed on the enrollment forms may pick up children from our facility. Photo identification is required for all pickups, and we will not release children to unauthorized persons under any circumstances. Changes to authorized pickup persons must be made in writing, and temporary authorizations require written notice with specific dates and times.

### 8.3 Personal Belongings and Supplies

Families are responsible for providing appropriate clothing, diapers, formula, and other personal items as specified in our enrollment materials. All personal belongings should be clearly labeled with the child's name. We are not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen personal items, and we recommend that valuable items not be brought to the facility.

### 8.4 Participation in Program Activities

We encourage family participation in our program through volunteer opportunities, special events, and educational activities. While participation is voluntary, family involvement enhances the quality of our program and supports positive relationships between home and school. We provide various opportunities for families to engage with our program based on their availability and interests.

## 9. Staff Qualifications and Training

### 9.1 Staff Credentials and Background Checks

All staff members meet or exceed New Mexico licensing requirements for childcare providers, including completion of required training in early childhood development, first aid and CPR certification, and comprehensive background checks including criminal history and child abuse registry checks. We maintain current documentation of all staff qualifications and provide ongoing professional development opportunities.

### 9.2 Ongoing Training and Professional Development

Our staff participates in regular training on topics including child development, health and safety, emergency procedures, behavior management, cultural competency, and other relevant areas. We are committed to maintaining high standards of professional practice and staying current with best practices in early childhood education and care.

### 9.3 Staff-to-Child Ratios

We maintain staff-to-child ratios that meet or exceed New Mexico licensing requirements for each age group. Our ratios are designed to ensure adequate supervision and individualized attention for all children while maintaining a safe and nurturing environment. We adjust staffing levels as needed to accommodate enrollment changes and ensure consistent ratio compliance.

## 10. Facility Policies and Procedures

### 10.1 Nutrition and Meal Policies

We provide nutritious meals and snacks that meet USDA guidelines for early childhood nutrition programs. Our meal planning considers dietary restrictions, allergies, and cultural preferences when possible. Families with children who have special dietary needs must provide detailed information and may need to provide supplemental foods or meals as appropriate.

### 10.2 Rest Time and Sleep Policies

All children participate in daily rest time appropriate for their age and developmental needs. We provide safe sleep environments for infants in accordance with current safe sleep guidelines, including firm mattresses, fitted sheets, and removal of loose bedding or toys. Older children have quiet time with books or soft music, and we respect individual sleep needs and family preferences when possible.

### 10.3 Outdoor Play and Physical Activity

Weather permitting, children participate in daily outdoor play and physical activities. We maintain safe playground equipment and outdoor spaces that provide opportunities for gross motor development, nature exploration, and fresh air. Children should be dressed appropriately for outdoor activities, and we follow safety guidelines for outdoor play in various weather conditions.

### 10.4 Field Trips and Special Activities

We may organize occasional field trips or special activities to enhance our educational program. All field trips require written parental permission, and we maintain appropriate supervision ratios and safety procedures during off-site activities. Families will receive advance notice of special activities and any associated costs or requirements.

## 11. Technology and Communication Policies

### 11.1 Electronic Communication

We use various electronic communication methods including email, text messaging, and online platforms to share information with families. Families are responsible for maintaining current contact information and checking communications regularly. We respect family preferences for communication methods while ensuring important information reaches all families promptly.

### 11.2 Photography and Media Consent

We may take photographs or videos of children during program activities for educational documentation, family communication, or promotional purposes. All photography and media use requires written parental consent, and families may specify restrictions on how images of their child may be used. We respect family privacy preferences and cultural considerations regarding photography.

### 11.3 Social Media and Online Presence

Our facility may maintain social media accounts and online presence to share information about our program and celebrate children's achievements. All social media posts involving children require appropriate consent, and we maintain professional standards in all online communications. Families are welcome to follow our social media accounts but should respect privacy and confidentiality in their own posts about our program.

## 12. Termination and Withdrawal

### 12.1 Voluntary Withdrawal

Families may withdraw their child from our program at any time with appropriate written notice as specified in the enrollment agreement, typically two weeks. Families are responsible for tuition payments through the notice period regardless of whether the child continues to attend. Final payments and account reconciliation must be completed before withdrawal is finalized.

### 12.2 Involuntary Termination

We reserve the right to terminate enrollment for various reasons including non-payment of fees, violation of facility policies, failure to provide required documentation, behavior that poses safety risks to children or staff, or inability to meet the child's needs within our program structure. We will provide written notice of termination and work with families to ensure appropriate transition planning when possible.

### 12.3 Transition Planning and Records Transfer

When children leave our program, we provide transition support including completion of final assessments and progress reports, transfer of educational records to new providers as authorized by families, sharing of successful strategies and interventions with new caregivers, and emotional support for children during the transition process.

## 13. Legal Provisions and Dispute Resolution

### 13.1 Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care's liability for any claims arising from or related to our services is limited to the amount of tuition paid by the family during the twelve months preceding the incident giving rise to the claim. We are not liable for indirect, consequential, or punitive damages, and families acknowledge that childcare services involve inherent risks that cannot be eliminated entirely.

### 13.2 Indemnification

Families agree to indemnify and hold harmless Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care, its staff, and agents from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from their child's enrollment or participation in our program, except to the extent such claims result from our gross negligence or willful misconduct.

### 13.3 Insurance Requirements

We maintain appropriate liability insurance coverage as required by New Mexico licensing regulations. Families are strongly encouraged to maintain health insurance coverage for their children and to verify that their homeowner's or renter's insurance provides adequate coverage for activities away from home.

### 13.4 Dispute Resolution Process

In the event of disputes or concerns, we encourage families to first discuss issues directly with appropriate staff members or administrators. If informal resolution is not successful, we provide a formal grievance process that includes written complaint submission, investigation and response procedures, and opportunities for mediation when appropriate. Legal action should be considered only after exhausting these internal resolution processes.

### 13.5 Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms of Service are governed by the laws of the State of New Mexico, and any legal proceedings arising from or related to these Terms shall be conducted in the appropriate courts of Bernalillo County, New Mexico. If any provision of these Terms is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

## 14. Modifications and Updates

### 14.1 Policy Changes

We reserve the right to modify these Terms of Service and related policies as needed to comply with changing regulations, improve our services, or address operational needs. Material changes will be communicated to families with at least thirty days' advance notice, and continued enrollment after the effective date of changes constitutes acceptance of the modified terms.

### 14.2 Annual Review and Updates

These Terms of Service are reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect current practices, regulatory requirements, and best practices in early childhood education. Families will receive updated terms as part of the annual re-enrollment process and are required to acknowledge acceptance of any changes.

## 15. Contact Information and Acknowledgment

### 15.1 Facility Contact Information

Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care

5820 2nd Street Northwest

Albuquerque, New Mexico 87107

Phone:

Email: [email protected]

### 15.2 Acknowledgment of Terms

By enrolling your child in our program, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. You also acknowledge that you have received copies of our Privacy Policy and other relevant program policies, and you understand your rights and responsibilities as outlined in these documents.

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Document Information:

- Facility Name: Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care

- License Number: [To be inserted when available]

- Effective Date: January 1, 2025

- Last Reviewed: January 1, 2025

- Next Review Date: January 1, 2026

Legal Disclaimer: These Terms of Service are designed to comply with applicable federal and state laws as of the effective date. Legal requirements may change, and these terms will be updated accordingly. For the most current version of these terms, please contact our administrative office.

© 2025 Teddy Bear Preschool Day Care. All Rights Reserved.