Health

AND SAFETY

Safety & Security

is our top priority.

Since we opened our doors in 1986, the safety and security of the children in our care has been at the core of our philosophy and continues to be our top priority. In addition to the existing health and safety measures we have long had in place, we have implemented enhanced practices and protocols to help limit the spread of illness and to maintain a safe, stimulating home-away-from-home where children can learn and grow.

Using guidance from top health officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Human Services, The Cradle Club implements policies and practices to keep every little one safe.

Routine Health and Wellness

Employment of a Public Health Consultant, a licensed medical professional who provides monthly visits and on-call health and safety guidance
Frequent, proper handwashing for ALL children and ALL staff members
Routine cleaning and disinfecting of all items and surfaces throughout our schools
Exclusion policies for children and staff members who experience symptoms of illness
Proper diapering and potty training practices to reduce the spread of germs
MN Department of Health approved food and beverage preparation, handling and service
Providing balanced meals with an in-house chef who serves nutritious breakfast, lunch and snack that meets all USDA guidelines
Regular opportunity for physical activity through our "Fun with Fitness" program

COVID-19 Response

Daily wellness checks for children and staff members PRIOR to admittance plus regular wellness checks throughout each day
Requiring facial coverings for all parents, essential visitors and center staff
Admittance of classroom teachers and enrolled children ONLY inside of classrooms
The restriction of all non-essential visitors to our schools
Added stringency to our existing exclusion policies for both children and staff members who experience symptoms of illness or who have traveled to a place of known COVID-19 exposure
Requiring kitchen staff and any others who access the kitchen area to wear a facial covering and gloves at all times. Staff must also abide by these practices when serving food to the children in their classrooms
Practicing social distancing in all age groups by teaching, encouraging and guiding children to follow new measures such as distancing during play and socially distanced nap and meal routines
A minimum of twice daily disinfecting of all playground equipment

Physical Safety

Locked, coded entrances
Safe and secure indoor and outdoor learning environments
Low child to teacher ratios; 4:1 for infants, 7:1 for toddlers and 10:1 for preschool
Positive, developmentally appropriate behavior guidance
Open door policy: Cradle Club Families are always welcome at our schools

Emergency Preparedness

Certification for all staff members in Pediatric CPR and First Aid
Emergency prevention and preparedness training for all staff members
Prevention focused policies and procedures
Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Plan that exceeds state standards
Emergency preparedness supplies available at each school

Our Well-Trained Staff

We pride ourselves in the employment of only those applicants that are experienced, knowledgeable and have a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of young children. Our staff undergo formal background checks, maintain certification in Pediatric CPR and First Aid and receive extensive training and education in health and safety measures in order to maintain our commitment to excellence. From our center directors to our teachers and beyond, every member of our staff serves to protect and nurture your child so they can grow in an environment full of laughter, learning and love!

The Cradle Club is committed to doing all that we can to keep your family safe. We continue to closely monitor current health and safety circumstances and make updates to our policies to reflect best practices from professional guidance.