Alexa's PLAYC

Innovative and collaborative care for every child, every family, every day.

FAQs

What age does your child have to be to enroll in Alexa's PLAYC?
Alexa's PLAYC accepts children ages 18 months through the time when they become kindergarten eligible.

What are the hours for Alexa's PLAYC?
Alexa's PLAYC is currently open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

What is the ratio of teachers to children?
We follow the recommendation of the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

• Inclusion Toddler Classes
  Ages 18 to 36 months: 1:3 teacher to child ratio with a maximum of 12 per class (including four children with an autism spectrum disorder).
• Inclusion Preschool Classes
  36 months to kindergarten eligible: 1:7 teacher to child ratio with a maximum of 20 per class (including four children with an autism spectrum disorder).

What is an inclusion classroom?
Inclusion means that children with special learning needs, in our case children with autism spectrum disorders, are enrolled in early childhood settings with same-aged peers without special needs.

Will my child benefit from enrollment in the inclusion classroom?
There are more teachers available in the inclusion classrooms to support the needs of all the enrolled children. In addition, research shows that possible positive benefits for typically developing children enrolled in inclusion programs may be accelerated language development, increased self-esteem, advanced skills for getting along with others, better social skills and fewer disruptive behaviors.

Do children in the preschool classes have to be potty trained?
No. The teachers are skilled and patient in helping your child to become independent in this area.

Do all the children have to take naps?
All children between 18 months and 5 years sleep or rest after lunch for one to two hours. We encourage you to bring a special blanket or stuffed animal for your child to rest with.

How do you manage undesirable behavior?
Positive guidance and modeling of appropriate behaviors help the children to gain inner controls for their own actions. All guidance is based on the developmental needs of the child. Redirection and constructive solution techniques are used by our skilled and caring teachers. If a child has a significant behavior issue, a teacher may meet with parents to develop a positive behavior plan to assist the child in being successful in the classroom. Children experience and begin to recognize acceptable alternatives such as problem-solving, conflict resolution and critical-thinking skills. All children and staff will be protected and provided a safe environment.

What happens in case of a serious emergency?
We will call 9-1-1 in the event of critical illness or injury. A certified staff member will administer first aid or pediatric CPR. Parents will be contacted immediately. (We do not send children directly to Rady Children's.)

Are the meals included?
Alexa's PLAYC provides a morning and an afternoon snack. Parents must provide a lunch for their child(ren); however, we do provide milk. Notify the director and teachers of any food allergies. Food substitutions will be provided by parents. Snack menus are posted in the reception area.

Can someone other than myself pick up my child?
If your child is to be picked-up by another person other than the legal guardian, prior written notification is required. Parents should provide at least two names of persons authorized to pick up your child in case of illness or emergencies. A photo I.D. is required for anyone picking up a child. If either parent is not allowed to pick up a child, a court order must be in the child's folder.

Does Alexa's PLAYC provide drop-in care?
Drop-in care is available at Alexa's PLAYC on a space-available basis. This service is only available to children already enrolled in Alexa's PLAYC. The front office administrator, not the classroom teacher, must approve drop-in care. A 24-hour notice is required for cancellation of a drop-in day, or regular charges for that day will be incurred.

Is the Alexa's PLAYC closed on holidays?
Yes, we are closed on the major holidays. Full tuition is expected on the week in which a holiday occurs.