Handbooks, forms, registration, and a friendly way to reach us — all in one place.
Read more about our philosophy and curriculum in our Parent Handbook.
Tap any section to open it. This is the full text of our Parent Handbook 2025–26.
The Learning Center at St. Anthony of Padua (TLC) is a private, not-for-profit child care agency servicing children ages three through twelve years old. TLC serves children and families without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, religion, marital status, disabilities, sexual orientation or income.
TLC operates under a New York State license issued by the Syracuse Regional Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and as such, complies with all regulations set forth by that department. A copy of the regulations is posted outside of the administrators’ office. OCFS regulations are available upon request to any parent interested in reviewing them. Parents are advised to contact the Syracuse Regional Office of the Bureau of Early Childhood Services for information regarding our license or any other concerns regarding compliance with these regulations. You may reach this office by dialing: 315-423-1001. * NYS licensing regulations mandate that children may be within our care for a maximum of 10 hours per day. TLC requires that parents adhere to this regulation.
TLC must adhere to the state regulations regarding maximum class size and child/teacher ratios. TLC ratios and maximum class sizes are as follows:
| Age | Child/Teacher Ratio | Maximum Class Size |
|---|---|---|
| 3 year old | 1/7 | 14 |
| 4 year old | 1/8 | 16 |
| 5 year old | 1/9 | 18 |
| 6-9 year olds | 1/10 | 20 |
| 10-12 year olds | 1/15 | 30 |
Open the doors of TLC and be welcomed into a child’s world, full of imagination and where learning is fun! Our philosophy is grounded in creating a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where every child can thrive. Below are the core principles that guide our approach to early childhood education:
We recognize the profound importance of play in a child's development. Through play, children learn to explore the world, solve problems, and build social skills. Our curriculum is designed to integrate playful activities that promote cognitive, physical, and emotional growth.
Every child is unique, with individual interests, strengths, and needs. Our educators tailor their teaching strategies to respect and support the distinct learning styles of each child. We encourage children to take the lead in their learning, fostering independence and self-confidence.
We strive to create a warm, caring environment where children feel safe and valued. Our programs emphasize the development of social skills such as cooperation, empathy, and communication. We teach children to identify, understand, and manage their emotions, building a foundation for healthy relationships.
Curiosity is the heart of learning. We provide a rich array of hands-on experiences that encourage children to explore, ask questions, and discover answers. Our classrooms are vibrant, interactive spaces where young minds can engage with the arts, science, and more.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all children and families. We respect and embrace different cultures, abilities, and backgrounds, ensuring that every child feels welcomed and supported.
We believe that parents/guardians are essential partners in the education of their children. We maintain an open-door policy, focus on open communication, and encourage families to be actively involved in our community. Regular updates and family events are integral parts of our approach.
Our programs are designed to support the holistic development of each child. We balance academic learning with activities that promote physical, social, and emotional well-being. Our goal is to nurture well-rounded individuals who are ready for the next stage of their educational journey.
We aim to instill a lifelong love of learning in every child. By fostering a positive and joyful learning environment, we hope to inspire curiosity and a passion for knowledge that will last a lifetime.
To facilitate a well-rounded program, TLC will provide a research-based curriculum through play-based activities. Our approach is rich in hands-on experiences that balance academic learning with social, emotional, and physical development.
TLC is equipped with a security system whereby parents and visitors must ring the outdoor buzzer in order to be admitted to the center. The main doors and all other access-ways are monitored by closed circuit camera.
All visitors to the building must sign in on the visitor log located at the front desk and wear a Visitor Pass.
TLC may temporarily or permanently restrict any person from the center: including a parent, who TLC finds poses or is likely to pose a threat or risk to the center or child, or fails or refuses to conduct him or herself in a manner appropriate to a child care setting including, but not limited to: profanity, yelling, threatening, aggressive or violent behaviors, impairment or failure to abide by TLC policies.
Security Cameras are located in the following areas:
Upper Level: Hallway-East End/West End; Lobby-Monitoring Entry Doors
Lower Level: Hallway-West End/East End; Stairwells-Monitoring Stairs; Room 6 and Café
Outside: East End-Monitor Back Exit; Delivery Entrance Door; Back Parking Lot - Pantry Door; Front Entrance and Upper Parking Lot; Playground and Playground Door; TLC West Lower Level Door
Smoking is prohibited on TLC grounds.
When in session, TLC is open Monday-Friday, 7:00am-5:00pm.
All programs are closed on the following days:
If a holiday falls on a weekend, it will be observed on either the preceding Friday or on the following Monday.
(PLEASE SEE “TUITION” SECTION REGARDING BILLABLE DAYS)
Parents wishing to enroll their children at TLC will be provided with a registration packet at the time of their initial visit. Registration is on a first come, first serve basis. TLC does utilize a waiting list for those programs that are full at the time of registration. When a spot opens, TLC will notify parents in the order that their name was placed on the waiting list.
All parents must complete a registration packet prior to enrollment, which includes the following:
*OCFS requires children with special health needs or any allergy to have paperwork filled out by the doctor. We need to have the completed form before the child can start, even if no action is required.
All incomplete forms will be returned to parents for completion prior to enrollment. TLC understands that for families with multiple children this is a lot of paperwork, however, due to NYS licensing regulations, parents must comply by completely filling out a separate registration packet for each child. No pre-school child will be admitted without documentation of a completed physical and updated immunization records (within 1 year of enrollment date). Failure to report updated immunizations or to provide updated medical information may result in loss of care.
A one-time, non-refundable registration fee of $85 is charged and is payable prior to the child’s first day of attendance. Any separation from TLC longer than six months in duration will require payment of a new registration fee upon return to care.
If a child is scheduled to start in September or later, and he/she is not potty trained, their spot will be held for 2 months. After that time, parents can either pay weekly tuition or withdraw the child.
A non-refundable Activity Fee of $90.00 is charged each summer to cover the cost of swimming, field trips, t-shirt with logo, and special events.
If weekly tuition is not paid within the week it is due, a late fee of $20 per week will be added to the unpaid account.
Failure to pick up children by the scheduled closing time will result in the assessment of a late fee of $20.00. Failure to pick up children for more than thirty minutes past the closing may result in TLC notifying the local authorities.
Checks returned for any reason will be assessed a returned check fee of $20.00. If more than two checks are returned within a calendar year, TLC will require that future payments be made by cash, credit card or money order.
Two weeks written notice of intent to withdraw from the program is required. Two weeks tuition will be charged, regardless of attendance.
A multiple child discount will apply to families with two or more children enrolled. Discounts are as follows:
Parents are responsible to pay their contracted attendance days (as per registration form) regardless of how many days the child actually attends; including holidays (see page 7), illness, and/or vacations. Medically certified absences beyond 5 consecutive school days will be billed at a 50% reduction beginning on the 6th day of absence until the child is medically certified to return to the program.
Children who are enrolled part time must attend on the days scheduled. TLC will not switch regularly scheduled days. If a different day of attendance is needed, parents may choose to add an additional day at the regular daily rate, if space is available.
Tuition may be paid in the form of cash, check, credit/debit card or money order. We also offer the option of using an automated payment processing called Tuition Express.
All families who are receiving subsidy or third party reimbursements are responsible for all tuition payments, parent fees, late fees, and registration/activity fees in excess of any that are not covered by the subsidizing agency. Subsidized families are responsible for promptly communicating any changes in subsidy status that may affect agency reimbursement. All families are responsible for payment to TLC of any tuition that exceeds any agency or third party reimbursement resulting from parent failure to communicate status changes.
If your family utilizes DSS and you sign your child up for vacation and/or snow days and you don’t attend, you are responsible for the payment.
NO PERSON(S) OTHER THAN THOSE WHOSE NAMES APPEAR ON THE RELEASE AUTHORIZATION FORM WILL BE PERMITTED TO PICK CHILDREN UP FROM CARE.
Parents should be certain that they have included all necessary names on the Release Authorization form and that such information is accurate. Parents are able to revise this list at any time but all changes must be made in person and in writing. At no time will changes be permitted verbally or by telephone. Please inform authorized persons that they will be expected to present photo identification in order to pick up a child.
All students enrolled at TLC must have at least one (1) emergency contact who is not a parent or legal guardian. This contact will be used in case of an emergency when the parent or guardian is unreachable.
In case of divorce or separation, custodial parents will be asked to furnish the center with a visitation schedule with the non-custodial parent and report any changes to that schedule. In cases where there is no visitation granted or an “order of protection” has been issued the center requires a copy of such orders. Please be advised, legal papers are necessary in order for TLC to deny pick up to a parent.
TLC cannot hold a child from a parent without legal documentation stating that the parent is not to access or pick up the child from care.
TLC utilizes the services of a consultant nurse who reviews all medical forms and immunizations. The consultant may also be available on an “as needed” basis. The teaching staff performs daily health checks on all children at the center.
Children will not be admitted to the center or will be sent home because of illness if one or more of the following conditions exists:
If your child has been out 3 days or more due to illness, TLC requires a doctor’s note for them to return.
The following are general guidelines for parents. TLC reserves the right to send a child home with suspicious or prolonged symptoms.
| Condition | Guideline for re-entry |
|---|---|
| Bacterial Meningitis | Physician’s note is required for re-entry; Health Department must also give written notice |
| Chicken Pox | 24 hours after lesions have crusted. Physician’s note is required for re-entry |
| Conjunctivitis | 24 hours after start of treatment if symptoms have stopped |
| Croup | After illness has subsided and child is no longer experiencing deep “barking” cough |
| Diarrhea-Gastroenteritis | 24 hours after last loose stool |
| Fever | 24 hours after temperature is normal |
| German Measles | 72 hours after child is completely symptom free. Physician’s note is required for re-entry |
| Head Lice | 24 hours after treatment has begun child will be checked by TLC staff. If nits are presentable, a Physician's note may be required. |
| Hepatitis | Physician’s note is required for re-entry |
| Impetigo | 24 hours after symptoms have subsided |
| Influenza | 24 hours after symptoms have subsided. Physician’s note is required for re-entry |
| Measles | 72 hours after child is completely symptom free. Physician’s note is required for re-entry |
| Mumps | 24 hours after swelling disappears and there are no related symptoms. Physician’s note is required. |
| Pin worms | 24 hours after treatment is completed |
| Pneumonia | Physician’s note is required for re-entry. If due to H-flu, Health Dept. must give written notice |
| Poison Ivy | After lesions have crusted and there is no sign of visible oozing |
| Ringworm | 24 hours after completion of one treatment |
| Roseola | 24 hours after temperature is normal |
| Scabies | 24 hours after first treatment has been given |
| Streptococcal Infections | 48 hours after the first dose of antibiotics |
| Vomiting-Viral Gastroenteritis | 24 hours after symptoms have subsided |
| Whooping Cough | 7 days after treatment has begun. Physician’s note is required. |
It is always preferred that parents administer medication to children whenever possible. TLC will not administer medication, prescription or otherwise, without written order from BOTH a physician and the child’s parent or legal guardian. Medication will be administered under the following conditions:
TLC uses a center-wide discipline model based on the preventative approach. The primary discipline measures used at TLC are redirection and positive guidance, reinforced and encouraged with verbal reasoning. TLC uses choices to help foster the child’s ability to become self-disciplined and promote a sense of self-control.
Inappropriate behaviors, such as aggressive physical behaviors (i.e.: biting, hitting, kicking, punching, choking, etc.) toward other children or staff, inappropriate language, destruction of property, and being disrespectful to staff is unacceptable.
TLC will not condone the use of corporal punishment or isolation as discipline. Discipline will never involve withholding food, rest or toilet privileges.
When this plan does not work, we use the following plan for correction of discipline problems.
TLC is committed to providing a safe, positive, and structured environment for all children in our school-age programs.
In order to show respect and maintain safety, students will:
Depending on the severity of the behavior, we MAY skip any step below. (i.e. aggressive behavior, bullying, repeat offenses, etc.)
Please note: Careful consideration is given to individual situations, so that the center's response to the student is appropriate. The consequences may be increased in cases of repeat offences. Suspension will be considered when behavior is disruptive and detrimental to the operation of the center.
NYS Child care staff are mandated BY LAW to report suspected cases of abuse and maltreatment. TLC meets all mandates set forth by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services regarding mandated reporting of abuse and maltreatment. For complete information you may ask to obtain a copy of the center policy.
It is our desire to maintain an environment where children will learn and have fun in the safest environment possible. The health and safety of each child at TLC is of our utmost concern.
Whenever a child is involved in an accident or incident which causes personal injury or injury to others, staff members are required to complete an Incident Report.
TLC is fully insured and carries general liability and accident insurance through the Syracuse Diocese. TLC’s accident policy is a “second payer” policy. That is, it will cover any portion of the medical and/or dental bills not covered by parent’s health care policies, including deductibles.
When an accident or injury occurs at TLC the Director or person in charge of the building, must be made aware of the accident or injury immediately. TLC is to provide the appropriate first aid procedures to the injured child/person.
If a 911 emergency call is necessary, the call will be made and the child’s parents will be notified immediately. If the child’s injury requires parent notification other than the accident report form, the Director or person in charge of the building or the staff member who witnessed the accident will call the child’s parents to inform them of the accident/ injury or ask the parent to come to TLC to assess the injury or pick up their child. If TLC cannot reach the parents via their listed phone numbers, TLC will contact the other authorized release persons listed on the child’s current registration forms.
An accident report form must be filled out by the staff member who witnessed the accident/ injury. The staff member is to show the accident report form to the Director or person in charge of the building for review and signature. The staff member or Director will give the accident report to the Front Desk for messaging on the ProCare system. When the child is picked up, ProCare will direct the parent to read and sign the Accident Report at the Front Desk. The Director or person in charge will ensure all other necessary forms will be completed as required. (i.e.: Diocese of Syracuse Accident Report, and or report to the NYS Office of Children and Family Services.)
TLC uses the ProCare computer program. This program is designed for attendance tracking, drop off/pick up clarification, as well as billing purposes. Every authorized pick up person for every child enrolled at TLC will receive a pin number to utilize this system.
The following is a synopsis of our Emergency Plan:
Fire Drills are held monthly and conducted by TLC administration. Timing of the drills is varied to include early morning, mealtimes, and nap times. Evacuation plans and maps are posted in each classroom and teachers are familiar with the exit routes. Additionally, all staff members receive fire safety training.
In the event that a disaster dictates the need to evacuate the building for a prolonged period, the children will be walked to St. Anthony of Padua Church on Odell Avenue. Parents will be notified regarding pick up procedures.
TLC has worked closely with the Endicott Police Department to develop a plan to be implemented in those cases not covered by Fire Drills or evacuation. This includes doing shelter in place drills.
If the Broome County Executive declares a state of emergency, due to weather, TLC will not open and will remain closed for the duration of the emergency.
The following is a list of supplies needed for the Pre-School Program. NYS OCFS requires parents to label all of your child’s belongings and clothing. Parents are encouraged to replenish supplies as needed.
Nap items are to be brought home at the end of each week for laundering. Items not laundered regularly will be discarded. While at TLC, your child’s nap items will be stored in a provided nap bin.
All parents must provide appropriate outdoor clothing and supplies including bathing suits, towels, snow suits, boots, mittens, hats, scarves, sun screen, bug repellent, etc. Children will be outdoors everyday, weather permitting. If children do not have appropriate outdoor clothing, parents will be called to bring in necessary items. As TLC operates within NYS ratio regulations, it is imperative that each parent ensure their child is prepared. It is not possible to keep the entire group from outdoor play due to insufficient clothing for one. If a parent requests a child not participate in outdoor activities due to medical reasons, a physician’s note is required.
TLC discourages children from bringing in toys or other personal belongings to the center other than those described previously. TLC IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE LOSS OF, OR DAMAGE TO PERSONAL TOYS OR BELONGINGS. TLC does not allow toy guns, war toys or other toys of destruction to be brought into the center.
TLC believes that Parent / Teacher Communication is vital to the welfare of the children in our care. It is extremely important that you, as a parent, communicate your needs and desires openly with your child’s classroom staff. Teachers will give each family a questionnaire at the beginning of the school year to better meet the needs of the child and family. You are encouraged to discuss any developmental milestones that you have observed and share any other pertinent information, specifically any major medical, environmental or family changes that you feel are helpful in meeting the needs of your child.
Each child enrolled in our full day preschool program will receive a TLC notebook. The notebook will be used as a tool for communication between families and TLC staff.
All children enrolled in the Pre-School will receive two progress reports per year. An end of year assessment may be offered in June upon parent request. Parent conferences will be offered at the time assessments are completed or at any time as requested by the parent or teacher.
TLC is affiliated with St. Anthony of Padua Church and as such, recognizes and celebrates traditional holidays of the Catholic Faith. Children enrolled at TLC need not be Catholic to attend. TLC will make every effort to respect, and recognize the observances of all backgrounds represented at our center. Religious celebrations and family traditions are a terrific way for children at TLC to learn about the diversity within our community. If you do not wish your child to participate in a particular religious or holiday activity, please do not hesitate to discuss this with your classroom teacher. Every effort will be made to provide an alternative activity for your child.
A birthday is a wonderful celebration of self. Parents wishing to provide a cake or snack in observance of a child’s birthday are welcomed to do so. We ask that the snack or cake provided be as nutritious as possible. We ask that you provide enough for each child in the classroom and that you check with your child's classroom teacher regarding any food allergies. TLC will provide a beverage for all birthday celebrations.
TLC serves morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack for preschoolers and afternoon snack for school aged children. The cost of lunch is included in tuition fees of 1/2 day and full day programs. Lunches served at TLC, during September-June, are purchased through the Union Endicott School District and meet all requirements set forth by the New York State Department of Health as well as the USDA. Menus will be sent home monthly. The lunch count will be called into UE by 9:00am. If you arrive after 8:45am, please call ahead to be included or bring in a lunch. Children are required to bring a lunch on all Vacation and Snow Day Care days, as lunch is not provided on these days.
Parents are asked to review menus weekly to determine if their child has a food allergy or if a religious practice or other dietary practice (such as vegetarianism) may prevent a child from eating from the regular menu.
We strive to provide an atmosphere of Christian love, and in doing so we say prayers before snacks and meals at TLC.
Field trips and special programs are offered to supplement children’s daily activities. TLC contracts transportation services for field trips with a local bus company. Children must have a signed permission slip to attend field trips. When TLC utilizes a school bus, ONLY 3 year-old children are required to use a car seat. Parents must provide a car seat (not a booster seat) labeled with the child's name.
Effective Date: August 2025
Replaces: Transportation in Personal Vehicles (Original Policy)
Original Policy: The staff of TLC is prohibited from transporting children in personal vehicles at any time.
Updated Policy: In the event of an emergency where no other safe transportation option is available, TLC staff may transport a child in a personal vehicle under the following conditions:
Please refrain from leaving unattended vehicles running. Emergency vehicles must have a clear lane, therefore we ask that you do not park or pull up in front of the building for any reason. Also, please do not park in the handicapped space unless you have a permit.
Weekly program rates (from the school's current site) plus fees from the Parent Handbook 2025–26.
| Schedule | Hours | 5 days | 3 days | 2 days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Day | 7:00am – 5:00pm | $260 | $205 | $165 |
| Half Day | 7:00am – 12:30pm | $175 | $135 | $115 |
| Abbreviated | 9:00am – 11:30am | $105 | $95 | $85 |
| Program | Hours | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Before School | 7:00am – 8:30am | $60 / week |
| Before School — early arrival | 6:45am – 7:00am | $75 / week |
| After School | 2:30pm – 5:00pm | $10 / hr (max $100/wk) |
| Extended After School | after 5:00pm | $10 / hr |
| Option | Rate |
|---|---|
| Summer Camp — 5 days | $270 |
| Summer Camp — 3 days | $210 |
| Summer Camp — 2 days | $170 |
| Snow Day Care | $50 / day |
| Vacation Care | $60 / day · $260 / 5 days |
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee (one-time, non-refundable) | $85 |
| Summer Camp Activity Fee | $90 |
| Late Tuition Fee | $20 / week |
| Late Pick-Up Fee | $20 |
| Returned Check Fee | $20 |
| Vacation Care Late Sign-Up | $15 / child |
| Multiple Child Discount | 10% |
See the full Tuition & Schedules page for complete details and billing policies.
Stop in and fill out a registration packet — our staff is available to answer your questions and walk you through every step.
Sample form layoutA quick look at how our year flows — from the first day of preschool through summer camp.
Sample template — dates to be confirmedFrom the Parent Handbook. If a holiday falls on a weekend, it is observed on the preceding Friday or the following Monday.
Call and schedule a tour of our facility — we'd love to show you around and meet your family. Fill out the form below, or simply give us a call.
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