Our Policies

​Current Tuition & Fees can be found on our Tuition & Fee schedule (available on our website, Brightwheel and posted near our bulletin board). We charge a flat tuition based on the number of days per week your child is enrolled. We do not offer half-day or hourly rates. 

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Tuition options include:

Full-Time - 4-5 days per week

Part-Time - 2-3 days per week

Extended Care - Available for children enrolled full time care only, with prior arrangements

Drop-In - Based on availability

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A non-refundable Application Fee is required upon applying for enrollment to hold your child’s spot while paperwork is completed.

A deposit is due at the time of signing the enrollment contract. Failure to pay may result in forfeiture of the spot.​

Tuition is required regardless of attendance and secures your child’s spot.

• All fees must be paid in advance.

  • Monthly tuition is due on the 1st of the month; weekly tuition is due each Friday for the following week.

• Families using subsidy programs are responsible for paying the difference between our fees and what the subsidy program pays.

• Automatic payments via Brightwheel are required.

  • A 2.95% processing fee applies to card payments. To avoid fees, families may opt for ACH bank transfers.

• No refunds or adjustments will be made for absences, except on an individual basis in cases of extended illness, pre-approved vacation days, or extended weather-related closures, as described in our policies.

We offer a two-week trial period to allow both families and the provider to ensure our program is a good fit. Either party may terminate care during this period with 24 hours written notice. If terminated during this period, a prorated tuition refund and your full deposit will be returned to you (excluding the non-refundable application fee).

Note: All fees charged by Brightwheel when making payments are non-refundable and not reimbursed by the provider.

Withdrawing a Child

One month's written notice is required when withdrawing a child. The deposit paid at enrollment will be applied to the final two weeks, provided proper notice is given. If not, the deposit is forfeited, and additional tuition may apply.

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Transitioning to a Preschool Setting

Tiny Vines Nursery primarily serves children up to age 3. Families should discuss transition plans in advance to ensure a smooth adjustment.

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Provider-Initiated Termination

There may be situations where the provider needs to terminate care. These include:

• Non-Payment of Tuition or Fees: Failure to pay tuition or fees by the required deadlines.

• Violation of Policies: Failure to adhere to the nursery’s policies.

• Unresolved Behavioral Issues: If a child’s behavior presents a safety risk.

• Disrespectful Conduct: Behavior by a parent or guardian that is disruptive, disrespectful, or threatening to the nursery’s environment or staff.

• Incompatibility: If it becomes clear that we are not the right fit for the child or family’s needs.

Process for Termination

• The provider will address concerns and work toward resolution prior to termination.

• Families will receive written notice of termination with at least two weeks' notice unless the issue involves immediate safety concerns, in which case termination is effective immediately.

• Any unused tuition will be forfeited.

Tiny Vines Nursery offers drop-in care for children ages 0-6 years, subject to ratio limits and daily availability. This service provides flexible care options for families who need occasional childcare. Our drop-in availability is available to view on our Calendar and routinely updated. 

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Eligibility & Enrollment

• Drop-in care is available for children ages 0-6 years.

• Families must complete the full enrollment process, including the application for enrollment, application fee, completed enrollment forms, and immunization record.

• Enrollment only needs to be completed once to be added to the drop-in care list.

• Once on the drop-in list, you’ll be able to request drop in anytime during normal business hours.

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Scheduling & Availability

• Drop-in care is not guaranteed and is available only when space allows. 

• Same-day requests for drop-in care are accepted, but is subject to availability.

• To request drop-in care, enrolled families should contact the provider via Brightwheel, or text.

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Rates & Payment

• Drop-in care is $100 per day, per child.

• Payment for drop-in care is due immediately upon scheduling drop-in care via Brightwheel in order to guarantee their space for the day.

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Policies & Fees

• All regular policies (including late pickup, illness, attendance, and behavior expectations) apply to drop-in care participants.

• Drop-in care does not include vacation days or tuition waivers.

• No refunds for cancellations or unused portions of a scheduled drop-in day.

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By offering drop-in care, Tiny Vines Nursery provides a flexible, safe, and structured environment for families needing occasional childcare.

• ​​Notify us by 8:00 AM via Brightwheel, text, or phone if your child will be absent.

• Two weeks’ notice is required for planned absences (vacations, appointments, etc.).

• Tuition is required even if the child is absent, except for pre-approved vacation days.

• Families may take up to two weeks (10 days for full-time) of unpaid vacation per year. Part-time families receive prorated vacation days (6 days for 3 days/week, 4 days for 2 days/week).

  • Vacation days must be requested in daily or weekly increments with two weeks’ written notice. 

  • Vacation days will be added as a credit on your account to reduce the following tuition payment. 

  • Unused vacation days do not roll over and are non-refundable.

• Repeated absences without communication may result in a review of enrollment status.​

• Paid Holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving & Black Friday, Christmas Eve, Christmas, & New Years Eve​

  • ​Holidays that fall on the weekend will be observed on Monday or Friday.​

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• Paid Breaks: Spring Break, Winter Break

  • Families will receive at least 3 months' notice

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• Unpaid Provider Vacation: 10 days per summer

  • Families will receive at least 3 months' notice

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• Personal Appointments: We may close once a month on the 1st or 3rd Monday for personal appointments

  • Families will receive at least two weeks' notice for any planned closures.

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• Provider Illness: Tuition is not refunded for the first two days; adjustments may be made for closures beyond two days.

  • Families will be notified by 6:00 AM of any closures due to illness​, whenever possible.

  • In the event of a severe illness or emergency requiring an extended absence or closure, families will be notified, and tuition adjustments will be discussed individually.

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• Weather/Natural Disasters: In severe weather or natural disasters, we may close the nursery to ensure everyone's well-being. Tuition is not refunded for closures under one week.

  • Wildfires and Poor Air Quality​: If the AQI reaches 150 or higher, the nursery may close. If the air quality worsens during the day, we will keep children indoors and notify parents for potential early pickup.

  • Earthquakes: If structural damage occurs, the nursery will close, and parents will be contacted. 

  • Flooding: We may close or delay opening if flooding or hazardous conditions impact access.

  • High Winds & Storms: Closures may occur if winds or storms pose safety risks, such as power outages or debris.

Each child has a scheduled drop-off and pickup time according to their contract. Parents are asked to adhere to their schedule for consistency.

• If a child needs to be picked up or dropped off outside of their scheduled time, parents are asked to notify the provider as soon as possible.

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​Drop-off

• Arrive between 8:00 AM and  9:30 AM whenever possible.

  • For arrivals after 8:45 AM, please ensure your child has eaten prior to drop-off.

• Sign your child in on Brightwheel and provide a brief update on their morning

• If you need to speak with the provider, keep the conversation short to avoid disrupting the routine.

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Pickup

• Pickup between 3:30 PM and 5:30 PM whenever possible. 

• Sign your child out on Brightwheel & we'll share any relevant updates about their day

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Late Pickup

• Notify the provider as soon as possible via Brightwheel, text, or phone if you anticipate being late. 

• Late pickup fees apply after 5:30 PM unless enrolled in extended care. Late pickup fees also apply for extended care pickups after 7:00 PM.

• Late pickup fees will be charged to your Brightwheel account and must be paid promptly.

• Repeated late pickups disrupt operations and may result in a written warning, a meeting to discuss and resolve the issue, or termination of services.​

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Authorized Individuals

• Notify the provider in advance if someone else will be picking up your child.

• Authorized individuals must be listed on the enrollment form for pickup

  • ID is required for unknown individuals.

• Unlisted individuals are not permitted to pick up children.

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​Parking

• Idling along our fence during drop-off and pickup is permitted but must be brief. Parking is not permitted.

• If you need to stay for an extended time, please pull into our driveway or use guest parking.

• Our community employs NorCal Towing; vehicles left unattended are the owner’s responsibility

We provide the following for children enrolled in care:​

• Meals and snacks, including appropriate dishes and utensils.

• Reusable changing pad liners and a diaper spatula for applying diaper cream for each child.

• Kirkland (Costco) brand baby wipes (parents may provide a preferred brand).

• Safe sleep spaces (cribs, play yards, and toddler cots) with fitted sheets.

• Nap mats/blankets for toddlers using cots.

• Age appropriate toys, books, sensory items, and outdoor toys.

• Infant-safe mineral-based sunscreen (parents may provide a preferred brand).

• Storage for extra clothes & personal items.

• Daily activity reports via Brightwheel

Families must provide:​​​

• Infant bottles, breast milk, and formula

  • Bottles should be sent daily; pre-filled and labeled with breastmilk, pre-made formula, or water in preparation for formula (to be made as needed).

  • Parent should provide at least one extra bottle daily beyond typical needs.

  • It is encouraged for parents to provide an extra can of formula or frozen breastmilk as a backup supply. Parents will be notified when it’s time to replenish any stored formula or breastmilk.

  • For toddlers, please provide pre-filled bottles/sippy cups with milk, if needed for nap times. Milk outside of regular meals/snacks is not provided.

• Diapers & Hygiene 

  • Diapers 

  • Diaper rash cream. 

  • Preferred brand of wipes (optional)

  • Preferred brand of sunscreen (optional). 

• Clothing 

  • At least three complete changes of weather-appropriate clothing, including socks.

  • An extra pair of closed-toed shoes and a sweatshirt or jacket.

  • Seasonal gear

    • Winter/Rainy: rain suit, water-resistant boots, winter hat, gloves.

    • Summer/Warm: sun hat, sunglasses, closed-toed sandals with heel straps, swimsuit.

• Comfort Items

  • At least two pacifiers, if used.

• A small toddler-sized backpack, which we will stock with items your child may need on field trips or in an emergency. We recommend one with a "leash" option, which can help keep your child safer during emergencies. We do not use the "leash" regularly.

Labeling

Please label items with your child's full name. We are not responsible for unlabeled items.

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Restocking

You'll be notified via Brightwheel when supplies are low and should restock promptly

Important Notes

• Please avoid sending toys, electronics, jewelry, valuables, or small choking hazards.

• If your child has specific needs or preferences, let us know so we can accommodate them.

• Personal items will be regularly cleaned according to health & safety standards.

• This policy ensures a comfortable, organized space for everyone.

We provide the following meals and snacks for children enrolled in regular care:​

• Breakfast - A balanced meal including whole grains and fruit. Milk is provided at breakfast. 

• AM Snack – A light morning snack to fill bellies before nap time.

• Lunch – A balanced meal including protein, whole grains, vegetables, and fruit. Milk is provided at lunchtime. 

• PM Snack – A nutritious snack to keep children fueled until pickup and dinnertime.

Children in Extended Care may receive an additional snack, depending on arrival or departure times.

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All meals follow safe and developmentally appropriate feeding practices to encourage self-feeding and healthy habits.​

• Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) – We follow baby-led weaning practices for infants, but parents may provide purees if preferred.

  • Appetites vary in young children and toddlers. We allow children to eat intuitively and listen to their own hunger and fullness cues.​ Children are never forced to eat.

• Allergies & Restrictions – Families must inform us of dietary needs at enrollment or as soon as possible.

Breastfeeding & Formula Feeding:​​

• Infants are fed on demand/following the schedule parents provide upon enrollment and through updates as a child grows. 

• Breastfeeding mothers may nurse on-site. Daily labeled breast milk bottles must be provided and will be stored properly. Keeping a backup frozen supply at daycare is recommended.

• Parents must provide formula. Bottles should be labeled and pre-filled with either prepared formula or water for the provider to prepare at feeding time. Keeping a backup formula at daycare is recommended.

• Infants should be sent with at least one extra bottle beyond the child's typical needs during daycare hours.

Milk is not provided outside of meals for toddlers. Parents may provide nap-time bottles for older children as needed.

At Tiny Vines Nursery, we prioritize hygiene, comfort, and consistency in diapering while maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Since our focus is on infants under 3 years old, we do not typically assist with potty training. Older toddlers attending drop-in care must be able to independently communicate their need and use the potty before arriving without diapers or pull ups.

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Diapering

• Diapers are checked regularly throughout the day and changed as needed to ensure cleanliness and comfort.

• Parents must provide their own diapers. We supply Kirkland (Costco) brand wipes for diaper changes. If your child requires a different type of wipe, please send them along with their diapers.

• Diaper creams or ointments will only be applied with written parental consent.

• Each child has their own changing pad, and the diapering area is sanitized after each use, and caregivers follow strict handwashing and hygiene practices.

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Potty Training 

• Older toddlers attending care must be in diapers/pull ups or:

  • Be fully capable of recognizing the need to use the potty.

  • Communicate their need to use the potty independently.

  • Use the potty with minimal assistance, including pulling pants up & down.

• Parents should pack extra clothing in case of accidents.

By maintaining clear expectations and consistent hygiene practices, we ensure a safe, sanitary, and comfortable experience for all children in our care. 

At Tiny Vines Nursery, we understand that adequate rest is essential for young children’s growth and well-being. We follow each infant’s individual schedule while gently transitioning toddlers to a more structured routine as they grow.

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Infant Sleep Schedule

• Infants follow their own natural sleep rhythms, with naps taken as needed throughout the day.Infants on two naps typically nap around 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM.

• We provide a calm and soothing sleep environment, ensuring that infants are laid down in a safe sleep position (on their backs, in a crib, with no loose bedding or toys).

• As infants grow, we work gradually toward a more structured routine while respecting their individual needs.

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Toddler Nap Schedule

• Toddlers on a one-nap schedule follow the designated nap time around 11:00 AM.

• Children transitioning from two naps (typically between 12–18 months) are accommodated as needed.

• Nap time is a quiet and restful period, with soft music or white noise to help create a soothing atmosphere.

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General Sleep Guidelines

• Safe sleep practices are always followed, including placing infants on their backs for naps.

• Swaddles and sleep-sacks are NOT allowed in childcare, according to state law. 

• Cribs and nap mats are sanitized regularly, and each child has their own designated sleep space.

• Comfort items, such as pacifiers, may be used if provided by parents.

• Children who wake early are encouraged to rest quietly until nap time ends

• No infant shall be forced to sleep, to stay awake, or to stay in the designated
  sleeping area.

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We remain flexible to accommodate each child’s sleep needs while ensuring they get the rest they need to thrive. 

At Tiny Vines Nursery, we are committed to fostering a positive and nurturing environment where children can develop appropriate behaviors based on their individual developmental stages. Our approach prioritizes empathy, respect, and understanding while maintaining clear boundaries and expectations. We use positive reinforcement and logical consequences instead of punishment, aligning closely with the principles of positive discipline.

Guiding Principles

• Clear Boundaries: Consistent expectations help children feel secure and understand appropriate behaviors.

• Redirection & Reinforcement: When challenging behaviors arise, we gently redirect children toward positive choices and reinforce desirable behavior.

• Modeling Behavior: We demonstrate effective communication, problem-solving, and emotional regulation to encourage healthy social interactions.

• Encouragement: Positive behaviors are celebrated to build confidence and intrinsic motivation.

Addressing Challenging Behaviors

Challenging behaviors are addressed on a case-by-case basis, considering the child’s age, developmental level, and individual needs. Our approach includes:

• Helping children recognize their emotions and express them in appropriate ways.

• Encouraging the use of words and gestures to resolve conflicts.

• Supporting self-regulation by guiding children through calming techniques.

Biting Policy

Biting is a common behavior in young children as they navigate social interactions, teething, and frustration. While it is a natural part of development, we address it promptly and effectively:

• Immediate Response:

  • The children involved are separated calmly and safely.

  • The bitten child is comforted, and the affected area is cleaned if necessary.

  • The child who bit is addressed with understanding and guidance, helping them recognize alternative behaviors.

• Parent Notification:

  • Parents of both children are informed immediately.

  • An incident report is completed detailing the event and any actions taken.

• Individualized Approach:

  • We observe patterns to determine possible triggers such as teething, frustration, sensory needs, or communication struggles.

  • Strategies are developed in collaboration with parents to support the child in managing their impulses.

• Behavioral Support:

  • Children who repeatedly bite are given additional support to develop alternative ways to express their needs.

  • Teachers implement targeted interventions, such as increased supervision and guided social interactions.

• Ongoing Communication:

  • We maintain open communication with families regarding progress and strategies.

  • Regular check-ins ensure consistency between home and daycare approaches.

Ensuring a Supportive Environment

At Tiny Vines Nursery, we believe that children learn best through patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By working closely with families and using developmentally appropriate techniques, we create a safe and supportive environment where children can develop social-emotional skills and respect for themselves and others.

Children must stay home if they show any of the following symptoms:​

• Fever (100.4°F+), along with behavior change or other signs of illness such as sore throat, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, earache, etc.

• Symptoms & signs of possible severe illness, such as unusual tiredness, uncontrolled coughing or wheezing, continuous crying, difficulty breathing, or severe abdominal pain.

• Diarrhea - causing blowouts, accidents, or an excessive number of changes.

• Vomiting - more than 1 time in the past 24 hours

• Strep throat - until 24 hours after treatment has started

• Impetigo - until 24 hours after treatment has started

• Pink Eye or other Eye discharge - thick mucus or pus dripping from the eye, until evaluated by a healthcare provider.

• Head lice or nits - until after treatment is completed

• Mouth sores with drooling - until evaluated by a healthcare provider.

• Scabies - until 24 hours after treatment is applied.

• Persistent or concerning cough 

• Any other contagious or communicable condition

• General discomfort (fussy, cranky, or not themselves) that requires more care than the provider can give while caring for multiple children.

Children must be symptom-free for at least 24 hours without medication before returning. Certain illnesses have longer exclusion time. 

• If a child becomes ill during the day, parents must pick up within one hour; late fees may apply.

  • Ill children will be separated from the group while waiting for pickup to prevent the spread of illness. Proper supervision will be provided at all times

• Tuition adjustments for illness-related absences may be made on a case by case basis for verified illnesses exceeding one week (a doctor’s note required).

• ​We administer medication only with a signed authorization form.

• Medications must be in original packaging, labeled with the child’s name, and include dosage instructions. Prescription medications must include the original prescription label.

• Unused medication will be returned to parents when no longer needed.

• We require a Diaper Cream and Sunscreen medication authorization for all children.

At Tiny Vines Nursery, the safety of the children is our top priority. While we take precautions to ensure a safe environment, minor accidents or injuries may occur during a child’s exploration.

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CPR/First Aid Certification

Ms. Jazz is a licensed caregiver with current Infant/Child/Adult CPR and First Aid certifications. She is also trained in Preventative Health & Safety practices, including illness and injury prevention. Your child’s safety is a priority, and we are prepared to respond swiftly in an emergency.

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Response to Accidents or Injuries

• Immediate Care:

  • Injuries will be promptly assessed and first aid administered. Ms. Jazz is certified in CPR and First Aid.

• Parent Notification:

  • All injuries will be reported on Brightwheel. Minor injuries will be shared by pickup. Significant injuries (e.g., head bumps, bites) will result in immediate notification.

• Emergency Situations:

  • For severe injuries, 911 will be called, and the child will be transported to a medical facility.

  • Parents will be contacted immediately.

Incident Reports

• An incident report will be completed on Brightwheel for all injuries, including:

• Date and time of the incident

• Description of the incident

• Actions taken and follow-up care.

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Preventative Measures

• We maintain a clean, safe environment by regularly inspecting toys and play areas and ensuring constant supervision to minimize injury risks.

• Our goal is to handle all incidents with care, transparency, and professionalism, ensuring the safety and well-being of every child.

We use Brightwheel for communication, enrollment, and billing. All important updates, reminders and event notifications are posted in the app. This allows families to stay informed and manage administrative tasks efficiently. 

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Parent Updates:​

• Real-time updates on meals, naps, diaper changes, and activities.

• Photos and notes highlighting milestones and daily experiences.

• Note: We track all meals, naps, and diaper changes. Additional logged activities or photos may not be available depending on each individual child's needs and moods each day. 

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Messaging:​​

• Parents can message the provider anytime through Brightwheel (typically answered within 24 hours).

• Urgent matters should be addressed via text, or phone call.

• Illness/Absence notifications should be sent 24/7 via text or Brightwheel.

• Outside of Business Hours (evenings, weekends) inboxes are monitored but responses may be delayed. Urgent matters will be prioritized.

• During Holiday, Break, and Vacation Closures inboxes are NOT consistently monitored. We will respond after the closure.

Billing & Payments:​

• Tuition, invoices, and receipts are managed through Brightwheel.

• Automatic payments are required, and payment history is easily accessible within the app.

Privacy & Security:

• Brightwheel ensures secure access to child profiles and updates.

• Only authorized users can view a child’s information.

Parent Communication Responsibilities:

• Notify us of any changes in medical conditions, dietary needs, sleep habits, or behavioral updates.

• Keep personal information and emergency contacts up to date.

• Read messages and updates sent via Brightwheel, text, or email.

• Stay informed about policy changes, closures, and reminders sent through Brightwheel.​

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Other Communication Notes:

• Brightwheel is the primary tool we use for communication. Be sure to check the app regularly for messages and notifications. We may use text to communicate urgent matters or reminders. Prior to enrollment, we communicate primarily by email.

• Key information, including our business license, current fee schedule, parents rights, and emergency information is posted on or near our parent bulletin board in the entryway

• Written communication will be provided with notice of any updates or changes to policies.

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We strive to notify parents as early as possible. For urgent matters, like unexpected closures, an alert will be sent immediately via Brightwheel, which will also send an SMS message if enabled by parents.

​At Tiny Vines Nursery, we have two beloved pets: Ash, our cat, and Sami, our Jack Russell dog. Both are accustomed to children, and we take precautions to ensure safe interactions.

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About our Pets

• Sami (Dog): A friendly, excitable Jack Russell who enjoys attention. Interactions with Sami are always supervised.

• Ash (Cat): Prefers quiet spaces and keeps her distance from children but may occasionally greet them.

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Safety Measures

• Both pets are up-to-date on vaccinations and receive regular vet care.

• Children are never unsupervised with pets, and interactions are monitored for safety.

• Pets are kept in designated areas during meals, naps, and structured activities.

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Allergies & Sensitivities 

• The environment is cleaned regularly to reduce pet-related allergens, and children are encouraged to wash their hands after interacting with the pets.

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Hygiene

• The daycare environment is cleaned regularly to reduce pet-related allergens.

• Children are encouraged to wash their hands after interacting with Pets to promote good hygiene.

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Benefits of Pet Interaction

• Pets help children develop empathy, responsibility, and positive relationships with animals, creating a warm atmosphere at Tiny Vines Nursery.

• Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns regarding our pets and their interaction with your child. We are committed to maintaining a safe, enjoyable environment for all.

At Tiny Vines Nursery, field trips are valuable opportunities for learning and socialization, with a focus on safety and well-being.

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FIELD TRIPS AND OUTINGS

• Field trips include local visits (e.g., library, park, nature walks) to enhance learning.

• A signed general permission slip is required for all outings.

• Parents will be notified in advance with details about the trip and any items needed.

• For spontaneous trips, parents will be notified before departure.

• Children will be supervised with appropriate staff-to-child ratios during outings.

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This policy ensures safe and enriching experiences for all children. Contact us with any questions or special requests regarding outings or celebrations.

At Tiny Vines Nursery, we use photos and videos to document activities and milestones while respecting privacy and preferences.​

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Internal Use

Photos and videos are shared with parents via the Brightwheel app and used to document developmental progress.

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Public & Marketing Use

Photos without children’s faces or identifying details may be used for public or marketing purposes (e.g., website or social media).

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Private Use

Photos or videos featuring identifying details will not be shared publicly without explicit parental permission.

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Social Media Sharing By Parents

Parents should not share photos or videos of other children on social media without permission from the other child's parents

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Security & Confidentiality

All media is securely stored and accessible only to authorized parties.