Licensing & Safety

Licensing Standards

Morrison Community Daycare Center is licensed through the Illinois Department of Children And Family Services and Whiteside County Health Department. We meet or exceed all requirements and standards set for daycare centers as well as all health, safety and sanitation standards required for food service.

Safety & Security

We take safety and security very seriously at Morrison Community Daycare Center. Our playground is fenced in with a soft tile surface and is always supervised. We make it a priority to see that no dangerous toys are brought to the daycare and that the play environment is safe. During “rest time” one volunteer is always in the room with the children. Cleaning supplies and medications are locked safely out of the reach of children. Children are checked in and out of the facility using the parent’s own personal password. If someone different will be picking up, a photo ID is required. Monthly fire drills and tornado drills (in season) are conducted. Our risk management plan and emergency information are updated frequently.

Cleanliness

Keeping germs at bay is important, so we encourage children to wash their hands throughout the day and teach lessons about health and hygiene. Floors are cleaned daily, and toys are cleaned on a regular basis. Diapering is conducted in a separate area from the children’s play area.

Diapers and Potty Training

If your child is still in diapers, you will need to provide diapers and wipes to the staff of his/her room. We also request that you provide an extra set of clothes, particularly if your child is potty training. Classroom teachers will notify parents when their diaper supply is getting low. When you feel your child is ready to begin potty training, please communicate with his or her teachers. We will be happy to help during this challenging and exciting time, but communication is essential. We have potty chairs in every bathroom which can be used as a potty chair or stool seat, whichever your child is more comfortable with. Children are never punished for toileting accidents!

Staffing Requirements

Morrison Community Daycare Center staff:

Have their references confirmed and are thoroughly interviewed.
Are fingerprinted and have complete and up-to-date background checks on file.
Comply with standards set by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
Actively participate in professional training each year.
Are certified in CPR and First Aid.
Maintain up-to-date physical examinations to ensure they are healthy.
Are mandated reporters subject to state law regarding child abuse and neglect; they are required by law to report any suspected abuse to the proper authorities.

All classrooms will maintain the following child-to-staff ratios appropriate for the youngest age present in the classroom:

6 weeks to 14 months = 4:1
15 months to 2 years old = 5:1
2 years old = 8:1
3 & 4 years old = 10:1
5 years and up = 20:1