Parental Resources

Child-care Tuition
Tuition is based on facility and staffing that we must have available to care properly for your child. Therefore, if
your child does not attend for any reason, tuition is NOT reduced. No reduction is given for unexpected
closings, holidays, severe weather closings, absences, vacations, or domestic problems. No business can run
without funding; therefore, the following policies have been developed to promote the high-quality services,
materials, supplies, and well-trained, educated caregivers at Bright Scholars Learning Center and Childcare.
Financial terms will be finalized upon signing the parent-provider contract.

Late Tuition Payment Fee
Prompt payment of tuition is necessary to ensure that the program can continue to function. Tuition fees that
are not paid in full by 6:30 p.m. on Monday are considered past due and a $20 Late Fee will be charged and is
due the next morning before the child is dropped-off. Bright Scholars Learning Center utilizes credit/debit, check, cash, or auto-debit as payment options. Tuition is
due each MONDAY and is late by 6:30 p.m. Monday. (This policy will be enforced) Tuition is based on the
classroom, not on the child’s actual age. The administrative staff determines when children advance from one classroom to another. 

Fees
In addition to tuition, the Center has the following required fees:
At the time of enrollment, a non-refundable application fee is due yearly, registration or curriculum fee is required once a year also.

Learning Center Hours: 6:15 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
It is extremely important that you pick your child up on time. If your child is still at school at 6:40 p.m. $10 late fee will automatically charge for the first 5 minutes. Any additional minutes after the first 5 will be $2 a minute. This fee will be due on the day service is rendered.
A returned check fee of $35.00 is assessed for every check or electronic withdrawal returned by your bank. In addition, if the return causes your payment to be late, you are also assessed the appropriate late payment fee. If Bright Scholars Learning Center terminates childcare services, a refund will be issued at a prorated amount for services that have not been rendered.

Chain of Concern 746.501 (20,22,23)
When you have a concern, question, or comment, you should consider your child’s teachers as your first resource. They are usually able to answer questions, not only about classroom procedure, but also more general questions about your child’s development.

☻If you have a question or concern which your child’s teachers cannot address, or if you feel more
comfortable talking to someone else, please feel free to schedule a parent conference with the Director or
Asst. Director. Please call the center at 281-506-8712 or email: [email protected] to
schedule any questions or concerns. Childcare Center Owners can be reached at email:
[email protected].☻Our most recent licensing review is posted on the wall located in the hallway near the entrance of the
school and can also be found online
https://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Child_Care/Search_Texas_Child_Care/ppFacilitySearchDayCare.asp.
☻Parents may contact the local Licensing office, the Texas Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline, and access the
HHSC website with the information below:
-Local License Office: 1800-862-5252 / 713-696-7119
-Texas Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline- 1-800-252-5400
-HHSC Website- https://www.hhs.texas.gov/

Non-discrimination Policy
The Center follows Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Public Law 88-352), The Age Discrimination Act of
1975 (Public Law 94-135), and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Public Law 93-112). This is an equal opportunity
program. No person, in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, age, sex,
disability, political beliefs, or religion, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be
otherwise subjected to discrimination. If you believe you have been discriminated against because of race,
color, national origin, age, sex, a disability, political beliefs, or religion, you may lodge a complaint against
Bright Scholars Learning Center by immediately writing and/or calling the Civil Rights Department, Texas
Department of Human Services, P.O. Box 19030, Austin, Texas 78714-9030 512/450-3630.
746.501 (2)

Procedures for releasing children
Parents are required to sign their children in and out of attendance upon arrival and departure using the
sign-in/out sheet located at the front of the facility. Every child must be signed out. As a result, no child will be
released from the playground area. Our responsibility begins when you place your child in the care of a staff
member and ends when you take him/her from the care of a staff member. Please do not allow your child to
wander off unattended or leave the building ahead of you. For safety purposes, only those listed on the
enrollment forms as designated persons for pick up will be permitted to leave with your child/children. If a
circumstance should arise for someone other than those on your list to pick up your child/children, you will
need to update your list in advance. We will require a Valid ID for identification of an individual we do not
recognize. Please inform those you have designated to pick up our policy.
*When dropping off your child, routine upbeat departures will make their transition to our care more
comfortable.

Parent/Child Interaction 746.501 (21,25,28b1)
Parents are welcome to visit the Center at any time during the Center’s hours of operation to observe their
child, the Center’s operation, program activities, the building, the premises, and the equipment without having
to secure prior approval. Parents who wish to participate in the Center’s operation and activities must meet
with the director to complete a background check form, if applicable prior to doing so. Parents have the right
to breastfeed or provide breast milk for their child while in care. An adult sized rocking chair is available in
infant rooms for comfortable seating. Breastfeeding education/resources are available upon request.

Breastfeeding Right at the Center
Parents have the right to breastfeed or provide breast milk for their child while in care. A rocking chair is
available in infant rooms for comfortable seating. There is also a designated area in center for breastfeeding
privacy.

Injuries 746.501 (5,6)
*Parents will be notified regarding updates related to the center & staff by emails, text messages, center
social media page and written notifications.
*Parents will be notified regarding an emergency with their child by the phone number provided on the
Enrollment Form (Emergency Contacted Listed).
The staff makes every effort to ensure the safety of your child while in our care. Unfortunately, accidents may
occur. Teachers and Center Staff are trained in CPR and basic first aid procedures. We have implemented the
following procedures, should your child experience an injury while at our center.
The teacher will immediately advise the administrative staff. The administrative staff will determine the
severity of the injury (i.e., scrapes, bumps, bruises, etc.) We will administer first aid and forward an accident
report home with the person that picks up your child at the end of the day. In case of a serious accident or
injury, EMS (911) will be contacted first. Within the limits of their ability, the staff will administer first aid. We
will make every attempt to contact you immediately by the phone number provided on the Enrollment Form
(Emergency Contacted Listed). If we cannot reach you, we will call the person you have indicated on the forms
to make medical decisions for your child. If we cannot reach you, we will release your child into the custody of
the emergency paramedics to transport your child for immediate medical care. Staff is prohibited from
transporting an injured child. A staff member will follow the EMS and remain with your child until you arrive.
We will continue to make contact with every phone number listed on the Enrollment form and if no contact
can be made by phone available staff will go to the address on the Enrollment Form to notify the parent.
*Any medical bills that may arise from an accident are the responsibility of the parent.

Illness and Exclusion 746.501 (3,27)
Every effort is made by Center staff to prevent the spread of disease. Even with precautions, children entering
care are likely to experience an increase in mild illnesses. The frequency and severity of these will vary from
child to child. However, an average child under the age of five has six to twelve mild illnesses per year. If your
child exhibits a change in mood or behavior after arriving at the center, a health check may be conducted to
determine if your child is ill. The health check may include a visual or physical assessment of the child and/or
the use of a thermometer to reveal the child’s temperature. When a child is ill, they need a greater need for
care than caregivers can provide without compromising the health, safety, and supervision of the other
children in care. We are not licensed to provide get-well care; therefore, ill children must be excluded from our
care.
If a child becomes ill, we will attempt to contact the child’s parents. If we cannot contact the parents, we will
contact the person(s) designated as the emergency contact on the child’s admission form and ask them to pick
up the child. Ill children are expected to be picked up within 30 minutes from the time of notification.
If a child or staff comes in close contact with someone who has lab confirmed COVID 19, they will not be
allowed to attend, and we will self-quarantine for 14 days from the last date of exposure. If a child test
positive for COVID-19, the child(s) will not return to our program for 14 days and will have to receive 2 negative
COVID test results before being able to return to the center. We are now recommending all kids, 3 years and up
wear a mask and/or face protection.
The administrative staff makes the final decision of whether the child can remain in care or if the child should
be excluded from care.
The following conditions are causes for exclusion from the Center:
● Fever over 100 degrees. Children should stay at home at least 24 hours after a normal temperature is
achieved WITHOUT the help of fever-reducing medications. For example, if your child goes home on
Monday with a fever, they may come back to the Center on Wednesday, if their temperature was
normal on Tuesday. The 24-hour waiting period allows your child’s immune system to regain strength.
● Fever over 99 degrees with a stiff neck or back. Children may return only with a doctor’s written
permission.
● Diarrhea (watery, bad-smelling stools more than once in succession). Children may return when normal
function returns.
● Vomiting (two or more episodes in the last 24 hours). Children may return when they can retain a light
meal.
5 | Page
● Persistent hacking or congested cough with sore throat (very red or blistered throat). Children may
return with doctor’s written permission.
● Green nasal discharge (indicated a respiratory infection treatment). Children may return with
doctor’s written permission.
● Difficulty in breathing to the point where the child is very uncomfortable or unable to sleep normally.
● Convulsions.
● Persistent pain in abdomen.
● Swelling, redness, or throbbing in an injured part of the body.
● Undiagnosed profuse rash or blisters on parts of the body.
● Unexpected profuse sweating.
● Head lice. Children may return after treatment and removal of all nits.
● Infectious skin or eye conditions (such as ringworm, impetigo, or pink eye). Children may return 24
hours after treatment with an antibiotic is begun.

Procedure for dispensing medication 746.501 (4,19)
We do not administer medication to the children in our care. See exceptions below.
Exception: If a child has a recurring medical condition, such as asthma or allergic reactions, the child’s parent
or health care provider may sign a medication authorization form allowing Bright Scholars Learning Center to
administer the medication when symptoms occur for up to a six-month period. The authorization must include
information on symptoms to watch for.
Exception: Texas DFPS Rule § 746.3803 (d) of Minimum Standards for Child-Care Centers: Parent Authorization
is not required if you administer medication to a child in a medical emergency to prevent the death or serious
bodily injury of the child, if you administer the medication as prescribed, directed, or intended.
*The parent must provide diaper Ointment, Sunscreen, and Insect Repellent labeled with the child’s name
as well as a parent’s signature on the container for the Center to administer the product. The staff will
follow the directions on the label when applying the product, unless the parent provides other instructions.

Sunscreen and insect repellent must be:
1) Safe for the age of the particular child;
2) In the original container; and
3) Within the expiration date noted on the product. Aerosols, as well as, combined sunscreen and insect
repellents are prohibited.
Prior to use at a center, sunscreen and repellent should be applied to the child at least once at home to test for
any allergic reaction. A Parent Release-Sunscreen and Insect Repellent form must be signed by the
parent/guardian before either is used. This permission slip must be updated annually.
Note: State licensing regulations will take precedence if they conflict with this policy.

Sunscreen
Sunscreen/sunblock must provide UVB and UVA protection with an SPF of 15 or higher. Sunscreen may be
provided by a parent/guardian (labeled with the child’s full name).
School-age children may apply sunscreen to themselves with adult supervision for proper application.
Sunscreen should be applied only to exposed areas of skin, and 20 to 30 minutes before going outdoors to be
absorbed into the skin and to increase its effectiveness. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours while
outdoors, or more often if the child is involved in water play or perspiring. Brimmed hats, long sleeved shirts
and pants in light colors provide additional sun protection. Reflective areas (such as water and sandboxes) for
prolonged periods of time should be avoided.

Insect Repellent
Insect repellent should be used only when recommended by public health authorities or requested by a
parent/guardian.
The repellent should contain a concentration of 30% DEET or less. Repellents not containing DEET may only be
used if safe for the age of the particular child.
Insect repellent should be applied to a child’s skin only once a day, but may be sprayed on clothes for later trips
outside. School-age children may apply insect repellent to themselves with adult supervision for proper
application. Sprayed clothing is returned home at day’s end to be laundered. Exposed skin should be washed
off with soap and water after a child returns indoors.

Immunizations for children 746.501 (11)
Immunizations are required of all children attending childcare in the state of Texas. You must show proof of the
appropriate immunizations BEFORE your child can attend the Center. We must have a written plan of action
signed by your child’s physician if the immunizations are not meeting the Texas Minimum State Vaccine

Requirements for Child-Care Facilities.
Exceptions for immunization requirements must meet criteria specified by the Texas Department of State
Health Services rules in 25 TAC§ 97.62 (relating to Exclusions from Compliance). You must contact the local
health department to find out what you must provide to us in lieu of the immunization record.
All children must have a Health Statement signed by their physician and submitted within the first thirty days
of enrollment. Every child four (4) years of age or older must have a vision and hearing screening signed by
their physician to be in care. TB testing is not required by the county for children to attend Child Care.

Employee Immunizations 746.501 (28)
Immunizations are not just for children. Childcare center employees have a unique opportunity to protect
children at their place of employment and lessen the spread of vaccine preventable diseases by getting
immunized. Vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs) are conditions which are preventable through vaccines
available to protect against specific diseases. A list of VPDs can be found at www.cdc.gov/vaccines.
Bright Scholars Learning Center employees are encouraged to receive vaccines for VPDs listed by the Center for
Disease Control and Prevention; however, vaccines are not required for employees.
The following conditions are causes for exclusion from the Center for employees:
● Fever over 100 degrees. Employees should stay at home at least 24 hours after a normal temperature
is achieved WITHOUT the help of fever-reducing medications. For example, if an employee goes home
on Monday with a fever, they may come back to the Center on Wednesday, if their temperature was
normal on Tuesday. The 24-hour waiting period allows your employee immune system to regain
strength.
● Fever over 99 degrees with a stiff neck or back. Employees may return only with a doctor’s written
permission.
● Diarrhea (watery, bad-smelling stools more than once in succession). Employees may return when
normal function returns.
● Vomiting (two or more episodes in the last 24 hours). Employees may return when they can retain a
light meal.
● Persistent hacking or congested cough with sore throat (very red or blistered throat). Employees may
return with doctor’s written permission.
● Green nasal discharge (indicated a respiratory infection treatment). Employee may return with
doctor’s written permission.
● Difficulty in breathing to the point where the employee is very uncomfortable or unable to sleep
normally.
● Convulsions.
● Persistent pain in abdomen.
● Swelling, redness, cuts, or throbbing in an injured part of the body.
● Undiagnosed profuse rash or blisters on parts of the body.
● Unexpected profuse sweating.
● Head lice. Employees may return after treatment and removal of all nits.
● Infectious skin or eye conditions (such as ringworm, impetigo, or pink eye). Employees may return 24
hours after treatment with an antibiotic begins.

Emergency Preparedness 746.501 (24)
In the event of an emergency, operating procedures are in place to ensure the safety of children.
Evacuation Plans:
● In some circumstances, parents will be called upon to pick up their children.
● In the event of an emergency, all employees are responsible for moving children to the designated safe
area or alternate shelter. Employees are required to guide children who can walk, carry children
younger than 24 months of age and who have limited mobility, or who otherwise may need assistance
in an emergency, such as children who have mental, visual, or hearing impairments.
When necessary, local authorities will be called, and the following resources may be requested
for transportation:
Transportation may include voluntary use of personal vehicles, city / city-owned vehicles, school /
district buses, leased or rented buses, and state-owned or contracted vehicles.
o If additional transportation resources are needed, other local or state government
transportation will be called upon for assistance.
o Emergency evacuation & relocation diagrams are in areas specified by DFPS & local authorities.
o Alternate Shelter: S.O.A.R. Academy; 2336 N Texas Ave., Pearland, Texas 77581
● Upon departure and arrival, the director or alternate assistant will have a list of all children that must
be accounted for. Together, the director or alternate assistant and the caregivers will verify that all
children are present.
● The director or alternate assistant is responsible for calling the local authorities needed such as: Fire
department, ambulance, local police or sheriff, poison control, health department, parents, and DFPS
childcare licensing.
● The director or alternate assistant is responsible for securing children’s emergency numbers,
emergency medical authorizations, and attendance sheets during an emergency.

Emergency Drills
Emergency Fire Drills are held monthly, and Severe Weather Drills are held every three months to ensure
children are accustomed to emergency evacuation and relocation procedures.
Weather Closures
Administrative staff may close the center due to an emergency, including but not limited to, severe weather
conditions. We are committed to the safety of our children, parents, and employee’s. Closures and reopenings
will be posted on local Houston News Broadcast according to Pearland ISD school policies.

Clothing & Personal Belongings
Children are not allowed to bring personal belongings such as toys or makeup from home. The Center is not
and will not be responsible for any items brought from home, including jewelry. Your child will have the
opportunities to experience a variety of activities. Children will be using art materials, enjoying
outside play and self-feeding at times. Please do not bring your child/children in clothing or shoes that should
not get dirty. All children will go outside for a minimum of 60 minutes per day, weather permitting.
Each child will need one complete set of clothes at the center. Please mark all personal items for easy
identification, such as coats, sweaters, gloves, blankets, etc.
We will not replace lost articles.
Infants & Toddlers: Parents must provide the following: Diapers or Pull-ups, Wipes, Ointment, Bottles (liners if
necessary), Pacifier, and Formula. We will notify parents when their child is running low on supplies. If a parent
fails to supply these items; the center will charge $1.00 for each diaper and $10.00 plus the cost of formula (a
receipt will be provided).

Discipline and Guidance Policy 746.501 (7)
At Bright Scholars Learning Center, your child will develop self-discipline & constructive self-management of
conflicts through positive guidance & understanding that every action has a logical consequence. Behavior
modifications begin with re-direction, warnings, if-then statements, time away from the group or activity. A
discussion of inappropriate action or behavior to help the child understand what is and is not appropriate will
occur. You will receive 2 copies of the discipline and guidance policy form; one for you to keep and one for you
to sign and return to us. Strategies to address challenging behaviors will be discussed with parents as needed
and framed around school readiness. Parents will be kept informed of the child’s progress or lack thereof. We
reserve the right to refuse or discontinue service if a child exhibits a pattern of defiance towards authority,
uses excessive harsh language, bites, or poses a threat against self, staff or the children in care.
Discipline and Guidance policies are necessary to ensure little to no interruption of the educational process. In
the event of disruption, the procedures are as follows:
1
st
Incident: Verbal warning and redirection.
2
nd
Incident: Isolated Time-out: one-minute interval per age of child.
3
rd
Incident: Notify parent
4
th
Incident: One Day Suspension
If ongoing we will have a conference with parents or guardians regarding the appropriate next steps.
*Discipline must be:
(1)Individualized and consistent for each child
(2)Appropriate to the child’s level of understanding
(3)Directed toward teaching the child acceptable behavior and self-control
(4)A positive method of discipline and guidance that encourages self-esteem, self-control, and self-direction,
including the following:
(A)Using praise and encouragement of good behavior instead of focusing only upon unacceptable
behavior
(B)Reminding a child of behavior expectations daily by using clear, positive statements
(C)Redirecting behavior using positive statements
(D)Using brief supervised separation or time out from the group, when appropriate for the child’s age
and development, which is limited to no more than one minute per year of the child’s age.
*Prohibited forms of discipline
No harsh, cruel, or unusual treatment of any child. The following types of discipline and guidance are
prohibited
(1)Corporal punishment or threats of corporal punishment
(2)Punishment associated with food, naps, or toilet training
(3)Pinching, shaking, or biting a child
(4)Hitting a child with a hand or instrument
(5)Putting anything in or on a child’s mouth
(6)Humiliating, ridiculing, rejecting, or yelling at a child
(7)Subjecting a child to harsh, abusive, or profane language
(8)Placing a child in a locked or dark room, bathroom, or closet
(9)Withholding active play or keeping a child inside as a consequence for behavior, unless the child is exhibiting
behavior during active play that requires a brief supervised separation or time out that is consistent with
§746.2803(4)(D) of this subchapter (relating to What methods of discipline and guidance may a caregiver use?)
(10)Requiring a child to remain silent or inactive for inappropriately long periods of time for the child’s age,
including requiring a child to remain in a restrictive device.
During operating hours an employee may discipline the employee’s own child as long as the employee does
not violate the requirements specified above.

Suspension and Expulsion of Children 746.501 (8)
Strategies to address challenging behaviors will be discussed with parents as needed and framed around
school readiness. Parents will be kept informed of the child’s progress or lack thereof. We reserve the right to
refuse or discontinue service if a child exhibits a pattern of defiance towards authority, uses excessive harsh
language, bites, or poses a threat against self, staff or other children in care. Violent, Destructive, Disruptive,
and Aggressive Behavior may result in suspension or expulsion from Bright Scholars Learning Center and
Childcare.

Tax Statement
A statement will be provided before January 31st of each year for those who plan to expense childcare when
filing taxes with the IRS. Please send all request for Tax Statements to [email protected], with
your name, relation to child, the child/children names, and you will receive a Tax Statement in 2 business days.

Water Activities, Field Trips 746.501 (15 & 16)
No water activities or field trips will be offered at the facility.

Animals 746.501 (17)
No animal activities will be offered at the facility.

Meals 746.501 (10)
Meals are served at no extra charge. Bright Scholars Learning Center serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon
snacks to all children who attend the time of service. Morning snack service starts about 8:30am, lunch starts
about 11:30am, afternoon snack is served about 2:30pm, and dinner at 5pm. We will not “hold” meals for your
child. If your child is not at the Center when a meal is served, he/she will not receive that meal. Please decide
for your child to be fed prior to arrival if it is after meal service time. Bright Scholars Learning Center &
Childcare participates in the Child & Adult Food Program (CACFP). Our nutrition standards / menu planning,
cooking procedures, and kitchen facilities follow CACFP guidelines. In addition:
● Liquids and foods hotter than 110 degrees F are kept out of children’s reach
● Staff are educated on food allergies and precautions are taken to ensure children are protected
● All food served is commercially prepared or prepared in a kitchen that is inspected by local health
officials
● Healthy snacks are available for school aged children as students arrive Foods are not used as rewards
● Food brought from home will be served in addition to meals served at the center
Bright Scholars Learning Center is inspected by the Brazoria County Health Department. Menus are posted
monthly in our lobby. We do not refrigerate, or microwave food brought from home. We welcome menu
suggestions. However, we are NOT able to prepare separate meals for children based on their preferences.
All children will be served the same meal, with the following exceptions.
A child that is allergic or sensitive to a food. In this case, a physician’s note is required, which must state
which food(s) are to be avoided. In those cases, the identified foods will not be served. Families must
provide acceptable substitutions if desired. Please notify the Director upon enrollment if this applies to
your child. Infants are served whenever they are hungry. All other children eat their meals together
with their classmates.

Non-Hiring of Center Staff
To maintain the Center’s confidentiality and professionalism, persons employed as staff at or by the Center are
prohibited from contracting, soliciting or engaging in temporary employment as a caregiver or babysitter for
any parent/guardian who has a child enrolled at the Center.

License & Regulations 746.501 (20)
Bright Scholars Learning Center is licensed by the state of Texas as a Child Daycare Center with the capacity for
89 children, 8 weeks to 12 years of age. Learning programs are based on developmentally appropriate
practices. You are entitled to see the following information. You may ask the Director or Assistant to show you
the most recent copy of the Minimum Standards for this Child Daycare Center; these are also available on the
web at www.dfps.state.tx.us or your local Licensing Office.
*The most recent DFPS Inspection/Investigation Report, (compliance information is also available on the web
at www.dfps.state.tx.us or your local Licensing Office)
*The Child Daycare Center’s Operational Policies and Procedures (handbook)

Safe Sleep Policy 746.501 (9)
All staff, substitute staff, and volunteers at will follow these safe sleep recommendations of the American
Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) for infants to reduce the
risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome/Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS/SUIDS):
● Always put infants to sleep on their backs unless you provide Form 3019, Infant Sleep Exception/Health
Care Professional Recommendation, signed by the infant’s health care professional [§746.2427 and
§747.2327].
● Place infants on a firm mattress, with a tight-fitting sheet, in a crib that meets the CPSC federal
requirements for full-size cribs and for non-full-size cribs [§746.2409 and §747.2309].
● For infants who are younger than 12 months of age, cribs should be bare except for a tight-fitting sheet
and a mattress cover or protector. Items that should not be placed in a crib include soft or loose
bedding, such as blankets, quilts, or comforters; pillows; stuffed toys/ animals; soft objects; bumper
pads; liners; or sleep positioning devices [§746.2415(b) and §747.2315(b)]. Also, infants must not have
their heads, faces, or cribs covered at any time by items such as blankets, linens, or clothing [§746.2429
and §747.2329].
● Do not use sleep positioning devices, such as wedges or infant positioners. The AAP has found no
evidence that these devices are safe. Their use may increase the risk of suffocation [§746.2415(b) and
§747.2315(b)].
● Ensure that sleeping areas are ventilated and at a temperature that is comfortable for a lightly clothed
adult [§746.3407(10) and §747.3203(10)].
● If an infant needs extra warmth, use sleep clothing (insert type of sleep clothing that will be used, such
as sleepers or footed pajamas) as an alternative to blankets [§746.2415(b) and §747.2315(b)].
● Place only one infant in a crib to sleep [§746.2405 and §747.2305].
● Infants may use a pacifier during sleep. But the pacifier must not be attached to a stuffed animal
[§746.2415(b) and §747.2315(b)] or the infant’s clothing by a string, cord, or other attaching
mechanism that might be a suffocation or strangulation risk [§746.2401(6) and §747.2315(b)].
● If the infant falls asleep in a restrictive device other than a crib (such as a bouncy chair or swing or
arrives to care asleep in a car seat), move the infant to a crib immediately, unless you provide Form
3019, Infant Sleep Exception/Health Care Professional Recommendation, signed by the infant’s
health-care professional [§746.2426 and §747.2326].
● Our childcare program is smoke-free. Smoking is not allowed in Texas childcare operations (this includes
e-cigarettes and any type of vaporizers) [§746.3703(d) and §747.3503(d)].
● Actively observe sleeping infants by sight and sound [§746.2403 and §747.2303].
● If an infant can roll back and forth from front to back, place the infant on the infant’s back for sleep and
allow the infant to assume a preferred sleep position [§746.2427 and §747.2327].
● Awake infants will have supervised “tummy time” several times daily. This will help them strengthen
their muscles and develop normally [§746.2427 and §747.2327].
● Do not swaddle an infant for sleep or rest unless you provide Form 3019, Infant Sleep Exception/Health
Care Professional Recommendation, signed by the infant’s health care professional [§746.2428 and
§747.2328].

Health Check
Every day, a trained staff member will conduct a health check of each child. This health check will be
conducted as soon as possible after the child enters the childcare facility and whenever a change in the child’s
behavior or appearance is noted while that child is in care. The health check should address:
a) Reported or observed illness or injury affecting the child or family members since the last date of
attendance.
b) Reported or observed changes in behavior of the child (such as lethargy or irritability) or in the
appearance (e.g., sad) of the child from the previous day at home or the previous day’s attendance at
childcare.
c) Skin rashes, impetigo, itching or scratching of the skin, itching or scratching of the scalp, or the
presence of one or more live crawling lice.
d) A temperature check if the child appears ill (a daily screening temperature check is not recommended).
e) Other signs or symptoms of illness and injury (such as drainage from eyes, vomiting, diarrhea,
cuts/lacerations, pain, or feeling ill).
The caregiver/teacher should gain information necessary to complete the daily health check by direct
observation of the child, by querying the parent/guardian, and, where applicable, by conversation with the child.

Keeping Children Safe
Reporting Abuse or Neglect: Texas Law requires caregivers to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the
Texas DPRS or law enforcement. Call 1-800-252-5400 to make confidential reports. Failure to report suspected
abuse or neglect is a crime. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against caregivers who make reports in
good faith. These are also available on the web at www.dfps.state.tx.us or your local Licensing Office at
713-696-7119 or 1-800-862-5252. The Center’s Director or teacher will notify the Department of Protective
Services, and/or the local law enforcement officials, when it appears that a child is being seriously neglected or
abused. The Texas Family Code (sections§34.07) States, Failure to Report: (A) A person commits an offense if
the person has cause to believe that a child’s physical or mental health or welfare has been or may be further
adversely affected by abuse or neglect and knowingly fails to report it, in accordance with Section §34.02 of
the code, (B) An offense Under this Section is a “Class B” Misdemeanor.
746.501 (18)

Promotion of indoor & outdoor play
(Benefits)Outdoor play provides for greater freedom and flexibility, fuller expression through loud talk, and a
greater range of active movement. Outdoor play also extends opportunities for large muscle development,
social-emotional development, and small muscle development by offering variety, challenge, and complexity in
ways that are not attainable in a confined indoor space. Indoor and outdoor active play enhances fitness and
general health and supports creativity, learning, and development.
(Duration) A minimum of two daily opportunities for outdoor play, weather permitting, in which a child makes
use of both small and large muscles.
a) An infant birth through 12 months of age may engage in outdoor play for an amount of time as
tolerated by the infant.
b) An infant 13 months through 17 months of age, a toddler, or a pre-kindergarten age child must engage
in outdoor play for a minimum of 60 total minutes daily.
A balance of active and quiet play that incorporates group and individual activities, both indoors and outdoors,
and must include.
a) A minimum of 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous active play for toddlers.
b) A minimum of 90 minutes of moderate to vigorous active play for pre-kindergarten age children.
(Types of activities) Child-initiated activities where:
a) The equipment, materials, and supplies are within reach of the child.
b) The child chooses the activity on the child’s own initiative.
(Weather) Will accommodate depending on weather and air quality by adjusting the scheduled outdoor play,
the length of time outdoors, and children’s clothing.
o Will shorten or cancel outdoor play to accommodate weather or air quality, you should increase the time of
indoor physical activity, so the total amount of physical activity remains the same; and
o Will incorporate opportunities to actively enjoy physical activity into part-time programs by prorating these
requirements accordingly (e.g., 20 minutes of outdoor play for every three hours at the center).
(Recommended Clothing & Footwear)
Clothing should be practical and comfortable. Comfortable clothes that fit properly will ensure that your child
isn’t distracted by what they are wearing and can focus on playing and learning. Clothes should also be easy to
clean and free from hazards such as dangling strings or beads.
● Ensure clothing is easy to get on and off. In daycare, diaper changes and potty breaks are frequent, and
sometimes urgent. Make sure that your child’s outfit for the day will help avoid frustration for both
your child and their caregivers.
● Shoes should be safe. Footwear such as flip-flops or backless sandals are generally not appropriate for
daycare. When running and playing, these shoes could increase the risk of injury.
● Clothing should be weather-appropriate. Outdoor play area that is used regularly, so ensure that your
child goes to daycare with appropriate clothing for the weather.
746.501 (26)

Preventing and Responding to Abuse and Neglect of Children
Employees are required to obtain a minimum of 24 clock hours of training each year relevant to the age of the
children for whom the caregiver provides care. At least one clock hour of annual training must focus on
prevention, recognition, and reporting of child abuse and neglect, in accordance with Texas Department of
Family and Protective Services, Rule §746.1309 of Minimum Standards for Child-Care Centers. Resources are
available at http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Training/Reporting/resources.asp for employees and parents on
increasing awareness and prevention of issues regarding child abuse and neglect, including warning signs that
a child may be a victim of abuse or neglect.
Bright Scholars Learning Center will work with community organizations to provide guidance and contact
information for parents/caregivers on preventing and reporting abuse or neglect.
Local Resources:
Child Protective Services, Pearland, Texas, (281) 997-4700
Police Department, Pearland, Texas (281) 997-4100
Gang-Free Zone 746.501 (28b2)
Under the Texas Penal Code, any area within 1000 feet of a child-care center is a gang-free zone, where
criminal offenses related to organized criminal activity are subject to harsher penalties.
14 | Page
Transportation Policy 746.501 (14)
Bright Scholars Learning Center does not provide transportation. We have adopted a standard policy and
should begin to provide transportation, the following policy will be implemented. All parents will be notified
of our intent to begin offering transportation.
Reason this policy is important:
The safety of children and staff must be provided in all activities of childcare programs. Proper restraint
systems and the correct use of them are critically important during travel to/from the childcare program as
well as a part of the activities of the setting.
Procedure and Practices, including responsible person(s):
● A Consent for Child Care Program Activities form will be filled out for each child being transported.
● Smoking is prohibited in vehicles used to transport children.
● Children will be transported properly in a seat belt, car seat, or booster seat according to current
State of Texas regulations. Parents are required to supply a booster or car seat. Staff will be sure that car seats, booster seats and seat belts are used properly, and each child is properly secured before setting the vehicle in motion. Staff will assist with releasing children from their transportation safety restraints, when needed. All adults in the vehicle will use proper restraining devices according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
● The number of passengers in the vehicle will not exceed the manufacturer’s stated capacity for the
vehicle.
● Children will be prohibited from eating, drinking, standing, or other dangerous or
destructive activities during transportation.
● Children will never be left unattended in a vehicle, even for brief periods. All children will be
accompanied by an adult to/from the vehicle to ensure safety.
● All children will be accounted for before leaving the facility and again before returning.
● Children with special needs will have their transportation plans addressed in the Special Care Plan.
Vehicle Requirements
● Only insured, licensed, well-maintained vehicles will be used to transport children.
● A back up vehicle will be available if needed and can be dispatched immediately in case of an
emergency.
● A first aid kit and list of emergency contacts for all children and adults will be in the vehicle
during transportation of children.
● A fire Extinguisher will also be stored in the vehicle.
● A cell phone will be available in case of emergency.
Driver Qualifications
● Drivers will be legally licensed and shall not be under the influence of any chemical substance
that may alter their ability to drive safely.
● Drivers will meet staff qualifications including a criminal history check.
● Drivers will be first aid and CPR certified if another staff member present is not.
● Drivers will obey all traffic regulations.
● The driver shall not be included in the child: staff ratio. Drivers must not be distracted from safe
driving practices by being simultaneously responsible for the supervision of children.
● The driver will be familiar with the planned destination ahead of time.
● To prevent distractions the driver is not permitted to talk on a cell phone or play loud music.
This policy applies:
This policy is in force anytime children are transported by the childcare program. Staff will adhere to the policy
guidelines even if no children are present when using a vehicle owned by the childcare facility.
Responsibility for Pick-Up, Drop-Off and Tracking of Each Child:
(1) Passenger Log:
a) A passenger log shall be used to track each child during transportation.
b) The first and last name of each child received for transport shall be recorded on the passenger log.
c) The driver or a monitor assigned to the vehicle shall be responsible for completing the log.
(2) Pick-Up Procedures:
The time the child was picked up shall be recorded on the passenger log.
(3) Drop-Off Procedures:
The passenger log shall be updated immediately upon the child being released from the vehicle by recording
the time the child was dropped off.
(4) Inspection to Confirm that No Child is on the Vehicle:
a. Driver Responsibilities. As soon as possible after dropping off the last child, the driver shall ensure that all
children have been dropped off by:
a) Physically walk through the vehicle.
b) Inspect all seat surfaces, under all seats and in all compartments or recesses in the vehicle’s interior.
c) The driver will walk to the back of the van and deactivate the child safety alarm.
d) Sign the passenger log, with the driver’s full name and time, indicating that each child is unloaded; and
e) Give the passenger log to either a monitor (e.g., an adult riding on the vehicle who is responsible for
the supervision of a child being transported) or to an additional reviewer (e.g., an employee of or
person designated by the Transportation Provider).
b. Director or Designee – Validation Process:
a) Confirm that each child is no longer on the vehicle. The monitor or reviewer shall then sign the
passenger log with the monitor’s or reviewer’s full name and time; and
b) Immediately notify the local authority’s parent and DFPS if any discrepancies on the passenger log (e.g.,
the number of children who boarded the vehicle does not match the number of children that were
released from the vehicle).