Family Handbook

Philosophy: WELC’s primary goal is to build both self-esteem and learning concepts through group activities, shared experiences, and creative play. Our age-appropriate education program is designed to develop the “whole child.” Activities and learning experiences are planned to stimulate and encourage intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth.

Mission: Children learn and grow with confidence. Families partner in success, and teachers lead with passion and purpose.

All admission and enrollment forms must be completed and returned to the office prior to your child’s first day. Based on availability, our facility admits children from 6 weeks old through completion of 4th grade.

Emergency Contact and Agreements must be completed every 6 months. Child Health Reports must be renewed:

• 6 weeks to 23 months: Every 6 months
• 2 years to 4 years: Yearly
• School age with kindergarten physical on file: No additional reports required

Hours: Open at 6:30 AM, close at 5:30 PM.

Program: We prefer no drop-offs during rest time (12:00 pm – 3:00 pm).

Pick-up: Children are only released to authorized Emergency and Release Contacts. Photo ID required for verification. A child may be dismissed from care if picked up late on 3 occasions in one school year.

WELC uses the Brightwheel app for daily communication. All activities (meals, naps, photos) are logged on your child’s profile feed.

• Daily Notes: Messages from staff about your child’s day
• Newsletters: Monthly, uploaded to Brightwheel each month
• Messaging: Direct messages to teachers; admin messages are private
• Conferences: Offered twice yearly to discuss progress

Families must notify us regarding food and environmental allergies. Children with diagnosed allergies require a detailed letter about symptoms, reactions, treatments, and care.

Immunizations are required per the current U.S. Public Health Services and AAP schedule.

Developmental Screening: WELC uses the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3). Parents are asked to complete ASQs within 45 days of enrollment.

Licensed through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.

WELC participates in the Keystone STARS program through Pennsylvania’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning, promoting continuous quality improvement in early care and education.