Health and Wellness
Research demonstrates the critical link between nutrition, health, and learning. At Shining Stars Preschools, we educate children about healthy eating habits, emphasizing the importance of a varied diet. Exercise and play are also essential components of a child’s overall well-being. Teachers often observe that children are more focused after physical activity. Active bodies are better equipped for learning! Finally, age-appropriate immunizations are a vital part of a child’s health plan. Protecting children’s health is crucial, and immunizations not only prevent illness but also help protect other children in the community.
Meals and Snacks
Shining Stars Preschools provides nutritious meals and snacks included in tuition. Full-day programs offer breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack. Half-day programs include a snack (or breakfast) and lunch, or an afternoon snack. Our menus adhere to USDA CACFP guidelines, emphasizing protein, fiber, and low fat, salt, and sugar. We prioritize fresh ingredients and avoid processed foods, preparing meals from scratch when possible or using reputable caterers.
We use an eight-week rotating menu, published monthly in our newsletter and posted weekly. We accommodate documented medical or religious dietary restrictions with a doctor’s note, providing substitutions when possible. Outside food is generally not permitted. Some Shining Stars locations participate in the USDA CACFP, offering financial assistance to qualifying centers. Families may be asked to complete a confidential income affidavit. This program prohibits discrimination based on protected categories. Contact the USDA Office of Civil Rights to file a complaint.
Outdoor Plays
Shining Stars Preschools prioritizes daily outdoor play for every child’s healthy development. We believe fresh air and sunshine are vital for growth. Outdoor play offers numerous benefits, from exploring nature and developing physical skills to boosting creativity and self-confidence. Children strengthen muscles, improve coordination, and refine motor skills. This supports future sports participation and physical activities.
Outdoor play also enhances cognitive and social-emotional growth. Children learn through exploration, developing problem-solving skills. Peer interaction fosters social skills and communication. Sunlight provides essential Vitamin D. Our curriculum integrates outdoor experiences with classroom learning. We adjust outdoor time during extreme temperatures and encourage parents to apply sunscreen. We believe outdoor play is essential for a child’s well-being.
Immunizations
Proof of current, age-appropriate immunizations is required for enrollment at Shining Stars Preschools. Please provide written documentation of any additional immunizations as they are received. We will notify you if we haven’t received updated records, and as required by licensing regulations, you will have 15 days to provide written proof of immunization. Failure to provide this documentation will result in your child’s exclusion from the program. If your child is not immunized due to religious or medical reasons, you must provide either a signed affidavit from their healthcare provider or a signed statement from a parent explaining the religious objection to immunization.