-Matthew 19:14

 
What is the purpose of the infant and 2-3's nursery?

The purpose of the infant and 2-3's nurseries is to provide a safe, loving, fun and comfortable environment for both you and your children to insure that they are content. Age-appropriate curriculums are introduced by the caregivers, and parent papers are available monthly. Our goal is to individually teach each baby through natural learning processes so he or she begins to learn about God.

The nursery department is made up of 3 areas: 

• Infants (birth-walking)
• Creepers (walking-2 years old)
• 2-3 year olds 

Each area is staffed by a team of 2-3 workers. The volunteers are scheduled each week by the scheduling coordinator, and have been interviewed, screened, and trained.

General

The nursery facilities are open 10 minutes prior to regular church service and events, and approximately 10 minutes after, for use by parents that are on the premises. Please bear in mind that some children become anxious for their parents when they see other children leaving before they do.

You are welcome in our nurseries; however, some children may be upset when they see you "peek in," and it is normal for children to go through various stages of separation anxiety. In most cases, crying stops a few moments after you leave. However, if the child persists in crying for 10 minutes the parents will be called. We would be happy to provide you with some information on this behavior if your child is uncomfortable when you leave. 

We encourage parents to volunteer to help in children's ministries as their schedules permit There are many benefits to working with children, including allowing the parent to know more about our children's program and seeing how children experience and learn about God here at Stonebriar Community Church.

The purpose of the following policies are to promote unity and understanding between parents and the nursery staff at Stonebriar Community Church.

1. Caregiver Approval and Identification

All caregivers go through a thorough selection process, must be approved by Children's Ministry, and must wear a name badge when in the nursery.

2. Caregiver Procedures

• Caregivers may not be alone with a child at any time.
• There should be at least one adult and one teen caregiver or two adults present in the nursery at any time 
  (unless scheduled after-hours babysitting).
• Physical contact must be age-appropriate.
• Window blinds will be kept open and doors must always remain unlocked.

3. Diapering and Toileting Procedures

• Diapers are to be changed only by a child's parent or guardian. The caregivers will page you as the need arises.
• Diapering sanitary policies are posted.
• If a 2-3 year old needs to use the bathroom, the caregiver will assist the child only as needed (in pairs), with the door open.
• Nursery age children undergoing toilet training should have with them a change of clothing in a labeled bag, and parents should encourage a potty stop before service.

4. Good Health Guidelines

• Young children are very susceptible to colds, flus and other diseases. We want to help eliminate these concerns as much as possible, so we must ask parents to keep your child at home when you observe the following:

  • Fever/vomiting
  • Discharge in or around eyes
  • Green or yellow runny nose
  • Excessive coughing
  • Diarrhea
  • Questionable rash
  • Any communicable disease

• If your child becomes ill while in the nursery, you will be notified promptly. If your child is being treated with an antibiotic, he or she should have received treatment for at least 24 hours.
   
• For your child's protection, we ask our caregivers to follow these same guidelines. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation on this matter.

5. Parents Responsibilities

In order for us to provide safe and loving care for your child, please:

• Label everything with stickers (bottle, pacifier, diaper bag, etc.).
• Place the diaper bag into the hands of a caretaker..
• Sign in your child on the check-in form, adding any special instructions..
• Make sure you have completed a nursery registration sheet for your child.
• When you leave your child with the caregiver three identical numbered bracelets will issued. One will be given to you to wear around your wrist, one will be placed on the wrist of your child and one will be attached to your diaper bag. In order to pick up your child you must have the corresponding numbered bracelet. Children are released only to adults or to siblings if pre-arranged.

6. Food

• Infants: Under normal circumstances, infant-age children are not to be fed any meals during the morning worship services, unless the parent has prepared a bottle. Sorry, we cannot mix formula for babies. We do have a bottle warmer in the infant nursery. We can provide a nursing area for nursing mothers.
   
• 2-3's: A snack is provided during each service of crackers (animal, graham, etc). 
   
• If your child has a food allergy or a special need related to food, please notify the nursery caregivers verbally and in writing on the child's name tag and on the registration sheet. 
   
• Please refrain from giving your child gum or candy before coming to the nursery. It can be dangerous.

7. Naps

• Infants & Creepers: Swings and other cribs are used in this room. If you prefer a position of sleeping for your child, please indicate on the check-in form. It is helpful for you to indicate your child's preferences for comforting as well.
   
• 2-3's: Children in this room are encouraged to remain awake during the service; however, if your child has a specific sleeping need during these times, please let the caregivers know.

8. Cleanliness

• Linens are changed after each use. Hand washing and diapering procedures are posted. Mouthed toys are washed after use, and other toys are spray disinfected. Please be assured that we make every effort to keep our nurseries a clean and safe place!

Our goal is to provide a secure and happy environment for you and your child. If you have any questions, problems or suggestions, please feel free to call: 

Thank you for allowing Stonebriar Community Church to participate with you in caring for the physical and spiritual needs of your child - it is an honor and a privilege.