Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome to KinderRise Academy, where learning begins with connection. We are delighted to welcome your child into our inclusive and vibrant community. At KinderRise, we believe in nurturing curious, confident, and compassionate learners through a program that values family engagement, celebrates diversity, and encourages exploration.

This handbook is designed to provide you with essential information about our academy’s programs, policies, and daily routines. Our goal is to create a safe, stimulating, and supportive environment where every child can thrive, develop independence, and build a lifelong love of learning.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s early education. We look forward to partnering with you to support their growth, discovery, and joyful journey at KinderRise.

Warm regards,
The KinderRise Academy Team

About KinderRise Academy

Mission Statement

At KinderRise Academy, our mission is to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where children and families grow, learn, and thrive together.
We nurture curious, confident, and compassionate learners through family engagement, diverse cultural experiences, and child-led exploration supported by thoughtful guidance.

Vision Statement

KinderRise Academy’s vision is to honour every child’s unique potential by fostering a vibrant learning community where children, families, and educators grow together in an atmosphere of connection, inclusion, and cultural respect.

We celebrate diversity by engaging with local Indigenous and Francophone communities, weaving their histories, languages, and traditions into daily learning so that every child develops a lifelong love of learning and a deep appreciation for the cultures that shape our world.

Educational Philosophy

KinderRise integrates Montessori principles with current research in early childhood development to create a curriculum that is family-centered, inclusive, and reflective.

Our educators act as guides and collaborators, preparing environments that invite independence, creativity, and purposeful exploration.

We believe that children learn best when families are active partners, diversity is celebrated as a strength, and cultural connections enrich every aspect of the program.

The Five Pillars of KinderRise

Our philosophy comes to life through five guiding pillars that shape every program and interaction:

1. Family Engagement
   Parents are recognized as a child’s first teachers and are invited to participate in workshops, classroom experiences, and collaborative decision-making.

Regular communication, observation days, and family events ensure parents are active partners in their child’s growth.

1. Inclusion & Diversity
   We welcome and celebrate all cultures, languages, and family structures.

Classrooms reflect the unique identities of the children and families we serve, promoting empathy, respect, and a global perspective.

1. Pedagogical Leadership
   Our educators are reflective practitioners who model curiosity, embrace research-based practices, and continuously grow alongside the children.

Staff engage in ongoing professional development and collaborative planning to ensure curriculum quality and innovation.

1. Holistic Child Development
   Our programs nurture cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth through play-based, inquiry-driven, and hands-on learning.

Children are encouraged to explore, make choices, and develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills.

1. Community Well-Being
   KinderRise serves as more than a preschool—it is a family hub and a place of belonging.

We intentionally build connections with Indigenous and Francophone communities to honour the cultures, histories, and languages that shape our shared landscape.

Through partnerships, storytelling, and culturally responsive programming, we create opportunities for children and families to experience land-based learning, French language exposure, and community celebrations that strengthen mental health, cultural pride, and mutual understanding.

These initiatives are supported by resources from organizations such as Farm to Cafeteria Canada, the National Centre for Collaboration in Indigenous Education, and the Treaty Education Alliance, which provide guides, stories, and teaching materials to support educators and learners.

Curriculum Overview

Our curriculum follows a Montessori-inspired, inquiry-based framework enriched by partnerships with Indigenous and Francophone community members.

Children explore practical life, sensorial materials, language and literacy, mathematics, creative arts, and cultural studies in a prepared environment that encourages independence, curiosity, and problem-solving.

Through storytelling, land-based experiences, and exposure to French language and Indigenous perspectives, children gain an understanding of Canada’s rich cultural heritage while building empathy, critical thinking skills, and a strong sense of belonging.

Tagline

“Where Learning Begins with Connection.”
This phrase reflects our belief that meaningful relationships—between children, educators, families, and the wider community—are the foundation of every learning experience.

Academy Policies

Enrollment and Admissions

Enrollment at KinderRise Academy is open to children 6 months to 6 years of age, subject to space availability and completion of all required enrollment documents.

KinderRise has applied to participate in the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) program and intends to receive approval so that base child care fees will be set and funded according to provincial CWELCC guidelines.

Our goal is to create an inclusive learning community that reflects the diversity of the families we serve.

To support equitable access, a minimum of 25% of spaces on the waitlist are intentionally reserved for marginalized families, including (but not limited to) Indigenous and Francophone families, newcomers, low-income households, and families experiencing barriers to quality child care.

Fees: Payment Methods and Schedule

KinderRise Academy operates within the CWELCC framework (application pending) and will follow provincial guidelines once approved.

Base Fees:
Set in accordance with CWELCC provincial daily rates. Families will be notified in writing of rate changes or retroactive credits.

Non-Base Fees:
Late pick-up, field trips, replacement fobs, and optional project fees are charged only when applicable (see Fee Schedule below).

Payment Methods (mandatory):

• Pre-authorized debit (PAD)
• E-transfer to the Academy’s designated account

Payment Schedule:

• Fees are invoiced monthly in advance and are due on the first business day of each month.
• A $55 NSF fee applies to returned payments.
• Late fees are applied according to the Non-Base Fee Schedule.

Refunds or credits are not issued for absences, vacations, or emergency closures, except where required by regulation.

Non-base fees may be charged where permitted under provincial guidelines:

Non-Base Fee

Amount / Details

Late Pick-Up Fee

$1.00 per minute after a 5-minute grace period, billed per incident*

NSF (Returned Payment)

$55.00 per transaction**

Field Trip Fee

Variable ($5 – $25) when optional trips are offered and parent consent is given***

Replacement Key Fob

$10.00 per fob for lost or damaged entry devices****

Program Materials Fee

Up to $50.00 per year for optional special projects, memory books, or enrichment kits*****

* Begins after 6:00 p.m. or the scheduled pick-up time.
** Applies to bounced cheques or failed electronic payments.
*** Only charged if a family chooses to participate.
**** Only charged when a replacement is required.
***** Optional enhancements; not tied to standard curriculum delivery.

Families will receive advance notice of any applicable non-base fees and a clear explanation of how and when these charges apply.

Waitlist Policy

KinderRise maintains a transparent, first-come, first-served waitlist with the following priorities:

1. Siblings of current students and children of staff members.
2. Reserved allocation: a minimum of 25% of available spaces are set aside for marginalized families (Indigenous, Francophone, newcomer, and low-income households).
3. All remaining spaces are offered in order of application date.

There is no fee to join the waitlist. Families will be contacted in sequence when a space becomes available and must confirm acceptance within the specified timeframe to secure the spot.
Regular updates are provided to ensure fairness, clarity, and equitable opportunity for all applicants.

Annual Closure Schedule

KinderRise Academy remains open year-round except for the 20 closure days listed below. These dates include statutory holidays, professional development days, and short seasonal breaks planned to align with major Ontario holidays. The schedule is provided each fall so families can plan vacations and alternate care well in advance.

KinderRise Academy – 2026 Closure Schedule (Total: 20 Days)

Date

Day

Reason for Closure

Mon Jan 1

New Year’s Day

Statutory Holiday

Fri Feb 13

Professional Development

PD Day

Mon Feb 16

Family Day

Statutory Holiday

Fri Apr 3

Good Friday

Statutory Holiday

Mon May 18

Victoria Day

Statutory Holiday

Mon Jun 29 – Fri Jul 3

Mon–Fri

Summer Closure (5 days) – includes Canada Day (Wed Jul 1)

Mon Sep 7

Labour Day

Statutory Holiday

Fri Oct 9

Professional Development

PD Day

Mon Oct 12

Thanksgiving

Statutory Holiday

Thu Dec 24

Christmas Eve

Winter Break

Fri Dec 25

Christmas Day

Statutory Holiday

Mon Dec 28 – Thu Dec 31

Mon–Thu

Winter Break (4 days) – includes Boxing Day Observed (Mon Dec 28)

Key Points

• Total Closure Days = 20
   • 9 Statutory Holidays
   • 5 Summer Closure days
   • 4 Winter Break days (Dec 28–31)
   • 2 Professional Development days
• Winter Break now runs from Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day, giving families a full holiday week.
• If any statutory holiday falls on a weekend, the centre observes the next business day.
• Exact dates are confirmed each September on the Annual Calendar and in the Parent Newsletter.

Attendance and Absences

Regular attendance is important for every child’s learning and social development.

If your child will be absent, please notify the Academy by 8:00 a.m. or as early as possible.

An email to info@kinderriseacademy.com (or a phone call to the main office) is recommended.
For planned or extended absences, please provide written notice in advance so we can adjust staffing and meal counts.

Drop-Off and Pick-Up Procedures

• Operating Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Drop-Off Window: 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. (to allow children to join morning routines).
• Pick-Up Window: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  Parents/guardians must sign children in and out each day.
  If someone other than a parent or legal guardian will pick up a child, written authorization is required in advance.
  Please ensure all authorized individuals bring photo identification.

KinderRise Academy – Sample Full-Day Schedule

(Infant, Toddler, and Preschool classrooms adapt activities to developmental stage)

Time

Activity & Eating Opportunities

7:00 – 8:30 a.m.

Before-Care & Early Breakfast – gentle play, books, sensory bins; light breakfast for early arrivals.

8:30 – 9:00 a.m.

Arrival, sign-in, and warm morning greetings.

9:00 – 9:15 a.m.

Morning Circle & Mindfulness – welcome song, breathing, daily plan.

9:15 – 10:15 a.m.

Play-Based Learning Centres – Montessori practical life, sensorial exploration, dramatic play.

10:15 – 10:30 a.m.

Morning Snack #1 – fruit, whole grains, water.

10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Outdoor Exploration – nature walk, gross-motor yard play, sand/water sensory stations.

11:30 – 12:00 p.m.

French Language Circle – songs, rhymes, and interactive vocabulary games.

12:00 – 12:30 p.m.

Lunch – balanced, family-style meal.

12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Nap / Quiet Time – two hours of rest; quiet reading or soft music for early risers.

2:30 – 2:45 p.m.

Afternoon Snack #2 – dairy or protein with fruit/vegetable.

2:45 – 3:30 p.m.

Art Exploration / Co-Curricular Class (Music, Kimochis® SEL, nature science).

3:30 – 4:15 p.m.

Outdoor Play Block – gross-motor challenges, gardening, cooperative games.

4:15 – 4:45 p.m.

Outdoor Gratitude Circle & Storytelling – Indigenous-inspired thank-you to the Earth, sharing something appreciated from the day, French or Indigenous story.

4:45 – 5:00 p.m.

Main Dismissal Window – parents sign out children directly from the outdoor area when possible.

5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Extended After-Care Enrichment – for remaining children: relaxed indoor/outdoor play, music & movement, low-investment sports (bean-bag toss, toddler soccer), art studio, story yoga.

6:00 – 6:30 p.m.

Light Supper / Snack #3 – wholesome wrap, yogurt, or fruit for late stayers.

6:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Quiet play, story corner, and final pick-up.

Key Features

• Dismissal in Nature: The Gratitude Circle doubles as a calming end to the school day and an opportunity for parents to join or observe as they arrive.
• French Language Integration: Daily exposure through songs, rhymes, and mid-morning French circle, plus optional French story rotation during the gratitude gathering.
• Extended After-Care: Children who remain past 5:00 enjoy a slower pace—creative play, movement, or quiet reading—with a light supper offered around 6:00.
• Nutrition Rhythm: Three meals and two to three snacks are provided at regular intervals to support healthy eating habits and self-regulation.

What is Kimochis®?

Kimochis (pronounced Key-mo-chees, meaning “feelings” in Japanese) is a social–emotional learning (SEL) program that uses plush characters and tactile “feelings” pillows to help children:

• Name and identify emotions (happy, sad, frustrated, excited, etc.)
• Practice communication skills like sharing, turn-taking, and problem solving
• Develop empathy and resilience through role-play and storytelling

Educators use the plush characters to act out everyday social situations—like asking to join a game or coping with a disappointment—so children can rehearse positive strategies in a safe, playful way.

Co-Curricular Examples

These activities rotate through the year to enhance the core Montessori-inspired curriculum and align with the Five Pillars (Family Engagement, Inclusion & Diversity, Pedagogical Leadership, Holistic Child Development, Community Well-Being).

Area

Sample Experiences

Developmental Benefits

Language & Culture

Intro to French (songs, simple phrases), Indigenous storytelling circles, ASL basics

Builds early language pathways, cultural appreciation, and communication skills

Creative Arts

Visual arts studio (painting, clay, collage), Dramatic play theatre, Storytelling with puppets

Encourages self-expression, fine-motor control, imagination

Music & Rhythm

Percussion circle, Orff music play, Rhythm & dance

Enhances auditory discrimination, coordination, and math readiness

Movement & Wellness

Yoga for Little Ones, Toddler gymnastics, Nature hikes, Beginner sports (mini-soccer, bean-bag games)

Supports gross-motor development, balance, body awareness

STEM Exploration

Sensory science lab, Simple robotics (preschool), Gardening & composting, Weather station observations

Fosters curiosity, problem-solving, and early scientific thinking

Community & Service

Intergenerational visits, Food-garden harvesting for local donation, “Helping Hands” classroom jobs

Cultivates empathy, responsibility, and community connection

Health and Safety Policies

KinderRise prioritizes the health and safety of every child.

• Notify us immediately if your child has a contagious illness.
• Children must be fever-free for at least 48 hours before returning.
• All staff are trained in emergency response, first aid, and CPR.
  Regular fire drills, lockdown drills, and evacuation practices are held to maintain preparedness.

Anaphylaxis and Medication

KinderRise is committed to a nut-safe and allergy-aware environment.
Parents of children with severe allergies must complete the Allergy Information Form (Appendix D) and provide an up-to-date action plan signed by a physician.
If a child requires medication during program hours, parents/guardians must complete an Authorization for Medication Administration Form (Appendix A).
Only medications prescribed by a licensed health-care provider and supplied in the original container will be administered.

Behaviour Guidance and Positive Discipline Policy

At KinderRise Academy, our goal is to help children develop self-regulation, empathy, and problem-solving skills within a safe and respectful environment.
We view behaviour as communication and respond with patience, guidance, and positive reinforcement.

Guiding Principles

• Modeling and Teaching – Educators model respectful language, cooperation, and problem-solving strategies.
• Positive Reinforcement – Staff recognize and celebrate constructive behaviours to encourage repetition.
• Clear, Consistent Limits – Expectations are age-appropriate and explained in simple terms.
• Restorative Practices – Children are supported to make amends, practice turn-taking, and use “peace table” conversations or Kimochis® social–emotional activities to resolve conflicts.
• Individualized Support – When challenging behaviours persist, educators collaborate with families and, if appropriate, community resource consultants to create a behaviour-support plan.

Prohibited Practices

KinderRise strictly prohibits:

• Corporal punishment of any kind
• Harsh or degrading language
• Isolation or seclusion as a form of discipline
• Deprivation of basic needs (food, rest, outdoor play)

These practices are not permitted under the Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA) and are never used at KinderRise.

Confidentiality and Privacy Policy

KinderRise Academy is committed to protecting the privacy of every child and family.

• Secure Records – All enrollment forms, health information, and assessment records are stored in locked or encrypted systems accessible only to authorized staff.
• Limited Sharing – Information is shared only with educators or professionals directly involved in supporting the child’s care, and only with parental consent except where required by law (e.g., child-protection reporting).
• Parent Access – Parents/guardians may request to review their child’s records at any time.
• Digital Communications – Email or electronic updates are used only for program purposes and follow applicable privacy legislation.

Parent Issues & Concerns Policy

KinderRise Academy is committed to open, transparent communication and respectful problem solving. We value family input and strive to address all concerns promptly, fairly, and in accordance with the Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA), the Ontario Human Rights Code, and Ministry of Education guidelines.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Parents

1. Identify your concern – Parents are encouraged to first identify the nature of their concern and share it directly with the appropriate staff member or supervisor.
2. Communicate the concern – Concerns may be raised in person, by phone, or in writing (including email). Staff will acknowledge receipt and document the concern.
3. Initial response – A response will be provided within one business day whenever possible. If additional time is required for investigation, families will be informed of next steps and timelines.
4. Resolution and feedback – Once reviewed, parents will receive a clear explanation of the outcome and any follow-up actions taken.
5. Escalation – If parents are not satisfied, the concern may be elevated to the Supervisor. If the concern involves the Supervisor, it will be addressed by the Licensee (Director).
6. Child protection concerns – If the concern relates to suspected abuse or neglect, parents are directed to contact the Children’s Aid Society immediately, as required by law.

Who to Talk to About a Concern

Type of Concern

Who to Speak To

The physical space of the room your child is in

Program Staff

Another parent’s or child’s behaviour

Program Staff (Supervisor notified if serious)

Meals, snacks, and drinks

Program Staff

Outdoor play areas

Program Staff

A staff member’s behaviour or performance

Supervisor

The Supervisor

Licensee (Director of KinderRise Academy)

General program, policies, or licensing

Supervisor

Serious licensing or compliance concerns

Licensee (Director) or Ministry of Education

What Happens When a Concern is Raised

• The concern will be documented in the daily written record or parent communication log.
• Staff or Supervisor will confirm with the parent that the concern has been noted.
• The Supervisor will review the concern, investigate if necessary, and provide follow-up.
• Written documentation will be kept for quality assurance and Ministry inspection purposes.

Response Times

• Initial acknowledgment: within 1 business day.
• Investigation & resolution: typically within 5–15 business days, depending on the nature of the concern.

Methods of Response

• In person
• By phone
• By email
• In writing (summary of findings)

Important Notes

• Parents always have the right to contact the Ministry of Education if they feel their concern has not been resolved.
• Concerns relating to suspected abuse or neglect of a child must be reported immediately to a Children’s Aid Society (CAS).
• Policies and practices are reviewed annually to ensure alignment with legislation and Ministry requirements.
• Parents will never face retaliation for raising a concern.

These policies reflect KinderRise’s commitment to respectful guidance, privacy protection, and transparent communication, ensuring that every family feels safe, heard, and valued.

Communication & Family Wellness Policy

At KinderRise Academy, we believe that open, two-way communication between families and educators is the foundation of every child’s success.
Our goal is to keep parents and guardians informed, involved, and supported, and to provide opportunities for families to strengthen their own well-being.

Our Communication Practices

• Daily Connection – Educators share day-to-day highlights such as meals, naps, activities, and key milestones through a secure digital platform or written daily log (age-appropriate).
• Regular Updates – Monthly newsletters outline curriculum themes, upcoming events, community partnerships, and reminders.
• Scheduled Conferences – Parent–teacher meetings are held twice each year to review progress, set goals, and discuss developmental milestones. Additional meetings can be scheduled at any time upon request.
• Accessible Staff – Parents may speak with their child’s lead educator or site supervisor during drop-off, pick-up, or by appointment to discuss questions or concerns.
• Important Notices – Urgent updates (weather closures, health advisories) are communicated by email, text alert, and posted notices.

Family Wellness Hub

KinderRise extends communication beyond the classroom through our Family Wellness Hub, a dedicated space for monthly workshops and discussion circles.
These sessions are designed to:

• Educate – Topics may include sleep routines, toilet learning, positive discipline, nutrition, mental health resources, and kindergarten readiness.
• Support – Parents can share experiences and seek guidance from educators, guest speakers, and community resource professionals.
• Celebrate Culture & Community – Selected workshops are offered in French or other languages as needed, and may include Indigenous storytelling, gardening, or land-based learning.

Participation is optional but highly encouraged, and all workshops are open to all parents, guardians, and extended family members.

Parent Partnership

• Family Input – We invite parents to share information about their child’s routines, cultural traditions, and learning interests to help staff individualize care.
• We welcome parent volunteers to assist with special events, classroom activities, and field trips. Please let us know if you are interested in volunteering.
• Feedback & Suggestions – Families may provide feedback in person, through surveys, or via email at any time. Concerns are addressed promptly according to the Grievance Policy.

By combining transparent communication with the Family Wellness Hub, KinderRise ensures that every family has the information, resources, and community connections needed to help their children—and themselves—thrive.

Emergency Management Policies

KinderRise Academy has established Emergency Management Policies and Procedures in accordance with section 68.1 of the Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA).

These procedures cover emergencies such as:

• Fire
• Severe weather
• Power or utility disruption
• Lockdown or community threat
• Evacuation of the premises

Parent Notification

• Parents/guardians will be notified as soon as it is safe and practical during an emergency.
• Notification may be delivered through phone calls, emails, text alerts, or posted notices depending on the situation.
• Families will be updated regularly until the emergency is resolved.
• If evacuation is required, parents will be advised of the designated safe location for pick-up.

Regular fire drills, lockdown drills, and evacuation practices are conducted to ensure preparedness.

Supervision of Volunteers and Students (CCEYA 11.1)

KinderRise Academy welcomes volunteers and students as part of our community of learning. To ensure safety and compliance:

• Volunteers and students are not counted in staffing ratios.
• They are never permitted to be alone with children.
• All volunteers and students are subject to orientation, screening, and supervision by qualified staff.
• Policies and procedures are in place to guide their conduct and responsibilities in accordance with CCEYA subsection 11.1 (1) and (2).

Activities Off the Premises

KinderRise Academy occasionally organizes off-site activities such as nature walks, visits to community centers, or field trips.

• Parents will receive advance notice of all off-premises activities.
• A signed parental/guardian consent form is required for participation.
• Children will be accompanied by qualified educators at all times, maintaining required staff-to-child ratios.
• When volunteers assist, they will be paired with staff and never left alone with children.