Academics

We believe the children will benefit most from the educational aspects of the program if they arrive before 9:00am since the classrooms’ activities have not usually begun yet, giving the teachers better opportunity to assist you with separating. However, we understand that things will arise, and if you will be arriving late due to a doctor’s appointment or other special circumstance, we ask that you please call the center in a timely manner so your child’s teachers and other staff may plan accordingly



Curriculum

My Friend’s House utilizes a play based curriculum that is founded on the knowledge that young children are active learners that must use their senses in the process of learning. Professionally trained teachers and caregivers plan activities and arrange stimulating learning environments which are appropriate for the different developmental stages of a child’s life. Children are encouraged to explore their world in a safe and non-judgmental environment beginning in the infant class and extended center wide. Our teachers resource from the “Creative Resources” curriculum series as well as other related curriculum books to ensure all planned activities are age-appropriate, stimulating, challenging and of course fun! Teachers develop weekly lesson plans that are reviewed and supported by the director and then posted for the parents.




Northwest Hills United      Methodist Church
Activities

As required by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services it is necessary to inform parents of procedures regarding the transportation of children to outdoor play areas and other locations on our campus, such as the gymnasium and chapel room located inside the Family Life Center building. When relocating to these areas the children are accompanied by staff through the courtyard. The fenced playgrounds are attached to the main child development building (My Friend’s House). Our playground does meet all safety guidelines as stated by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

Activities include:
* Splash Days                                   * Field Trips                        * Rest Periods
* Spanish (2yrs and up)                    * Creative Movement          * Music classes
* Sign Language (Infant - 2yrs)         * Nature studies

Water Bottles:  We require that all children bring a water bottle everyday. Brain research indicates that we learn only when hydrated and we strive to teach healthy habits with all ages of children. Please ensure that the bottle is filled with water only. Thank you!

Field Trips:  Children who are in the infant and toddler classrooms will participate in Bye-Bye-Buggy rides around the block and the church grounds with approval from parents. Preschoolers may participate in field trips off campus. These experiences provide the opportunity for extended learning in the local community. High adult to child ratios are maintained and a caregiver with CPR and First Aid training accompanies each group. Parents are notified in writing at least 48 hours in advance. Transportation will be provided using center vans and/or parent volunteers. Please provide a car seat for your child and install it properly in the van.

Chapel:  Beginning in the 2 year old classrooms all children attend chapel once a week, for about 15 minutes with Ms. Jean, the Director of Children’s Ministries. Chapel is usually held in the Wesley Chapel for MFH students and the MDO students. The children learn bible stories through songs, finger plays and interactive story times with the main focus on a central theme of God’s love for children.  To ensure a positive worship experience for all children, parents will be asked to wait until Chapel is complete before picking up and dropping off their children.

Nutrition:  Parents of infants up to 12 months have the option of supplying all formula and other baby food for their child until they are old enough for table food or may choose to use the milk based or soy based formula, fruit and vegetable jar food, and rice cereal that My Friend’s House CDC provides.  At that time we will offer them breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack. All other children receive breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack.  Menus may be found on the parent/information table. My Friend's House CDC and the Play-Time group participate in the Federal Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), which require very specific guidelines for offering meals to the children and staff.  We always strive to provide well-balanced, nutritionally sound and appetizing meals for the children, yet we are aware that not all children like all foods.  We are unable to allow a child to bring an individual meal that is different from what all his or her classmates are eating unless it is due to medical, religious, or philosophical reasons. At that point an alternate meal will be provided.  In the case of dietary restrictions they should be described in full and in writing, and given to the office for the child’s file.  Also, please inform the staff and administration of any food allergies your child may have.
                 
Meal times are:    
Breakfast – 8:30-9:00 am for Full-Time Program/ Part Time Program
Lunch – 11:30 am
Snack – 3:00 pm

Parents and children are not allowed in the kitchen at any time pursuant to the Department of Health regulations, so please see administration or our food manager if you need any assistance from the kitchen.