Company Handbook
Comprehensive policies and standards that guide our operations.
Excellence in operations is the quiet foundation beneath every child's day — invisible when it works, irreplaceable always.
Supervision & Care Ratios
Effective supervision is the cornerstone of child safety. The staffing combinations below are the minimums set by the BC Child Care Licensing Regulation (BC Reg 332/2007). In Space frequently exceeds them. Combinations show the roles required for the maximum-sized group in each program type.
| Program / Group | Required Staff |
|---|---|
| Group Child Care — Under 36 Months (up to 12) | 1 ITE + 1 ECE + 1 ECEA |
| Group Child Care — 30 mo to School Age (up to 25) | 1 ECE + 2 ECEAs |
| Preschool (up to 20) | 1 ECE + 1 ECEA |
| School Age — K & Grade 1 (up to 12) | 1 RA |
| School Age — K & Grade 1 (13–24) | 2 RAs |
| School Age — Grade 2+ (up to 15) | 1 RA |
| School Age — Grade 2+ (16–30) | 2 RAs |
Continuity of Care
- Supervised at all times
- Staff in close proximity
- Ratios maintained
- Proactive communication
- Second staff available
Tracking & Accountability
- Track enrollment ongoing
- Consistent head counts
- Sign in/out via ProCare
- Manual backup
- Only release to authorized
Environment
- Regular safety checks
- Remove hazards
- Maintain sightlines
- Lock non-program doors
- 1 hour outdoor daily
Transportation
Safe, supervised, reliable transportation.
Appropriate ratios on all routes.
Transfer Procedures
- Kindergarten: transfer at classroom door
- Other students: when school supervision begins
- After school: staff at each school
Delays
- Notify on-site staff
- Inform school and parents
- Site Manager coordinates
Unaccounted Children
- Contact Site Manager
- Contact parent
- Check with school
- Bus will not depart until confirmed
Health & Safety
Safe, secure environment for all.
Staffing
- Manager on site 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- During closures: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Ratios per Schedule E maintained
Qualifications
- Role-based qualifications
- Valid First Aid & CPR
- Cleared Criminal Record Check
Training
- Fire safety
- Health protocols
- Monthly development
Vehicle Standards
- Licensed drivers
- Insurance for child transport
- Booster seats
- Regular inspections
Hygiene
- Food surfaces hygienic
- Hot water max 49C
- Allergy-aware food handling
- Handwashing procedures
- Immunization status documented (no records required)
- Medication: authorization only
Release to Authorized Persons
Safe, secure release of all children.
Records
- Parent/emergency contacts in Procare
- Unauthorized pick-up list maintained
Procedures
- Sign in/out via Procare
- Verify identity
Unauthorized Persons
- Request photo ID
- Log details
- Contact parent
- No release without confirmation
- Contact police if needed
Concerns
- No release to impaired individuals
- Contact alternate adult
- Prioritize safety
Threats
- Contact police
- Notify Ministry
- Notify Licensing Officer
- Complete incident log
Emergency Response
Comprehensive Emergency Plan.
Emergency Procedures
Sequential steps every team member follows when an emergency is declared.
Definitions
Reunification Sites
Documentation
- Type of emergency
- Date/time
- Names present
- Injuries
- Facility condition
Drills
- Monthly fire drills
- Annual earthquake drills
- Records kept
Physical Literacy
Promoting physical literacy.
Core Skills
- Crawling, walking, climbing
- Jumping, running, balancing
- Catching, throwing, kicking
- Coordination, strength
Outdoor Time
Minimum 1 hour physical activity per 3 hours.
Screen Time
Max 30 min/day, educational only.
Equipment
Behaviour Guidance
Respectful, developmentally appropriate guidance.
Principles
- Positive relationships
- Clear expectations
- Consistent routines
- Role modelling
Expected Behaviour
- Treat others with respect
- Clean up materials
- Take turns
- Ask for help
- Stay with group
- Use indoor voices
- Treat materials gently
Strategies
- Positive role modelling
- Simple language
- Focus on behaviour not child
- Redirection
- Choices and problem-solving
- Calm support
Time-In, Not Time-Out
Time In approach — safe space to calm, followed by supportive conversation.
Nutrition
Nutritious food practices.
Current Standards
- We do not provide meal program
- Children bring own lunches
- No food sharing
- Staff aware of allergies
Program Planning
High-quality, developmentally appropriate programming.
Creative Art
Self-expression through art activities.
Leisure Activities
Choice-based play — games, reading, puzzles.
Physical Activities
Endurance, flexibility, strength.
Transition Activities
Songs, games during transitions.
Wellness & Nutrition
Healthy habits and well-being.
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