FAQ | Cornerstone Academy
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Q: What ages of children do you accept?

A: Cornerstone Childcare Academy provides a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children 6 weeks to 13 years of age.  

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Q: What are your hours of operation?

A: We are open Monday through Friday from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm. We provide full-day care for infants, toddlers, preschoolers. We also provide before-and-after-school care for children who are enrolled in Kindergarten through 13 years of age. During this time of COVID-19 we are also accepting virtual learners.

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Q: Do you provide part-time care?

A: Yes. Cornerstone Childcare Academy part-time programs are designed to introduce children to their peers while engaging in fun curriculum-based activities in a structured environment. 

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Q: Do you provide meals and snacks?

A: During this time of COVID, we kindly ask for you to bring your child’s lunch and snacks with you to school. We will provide snacks if needed.

 

Q: What do I need to bring with me to sign-up for childcare?

A: The registration process will require the following: A valid photo ID, Insurance card (if you currently have coverage) Universal Child Health Record form (to be completed by parent and primary care physician) and up-to-date Immunization Record for all children being enrolled, and Registration forms (that includes Authorization for Emergency Medical Care) & signed policies. If your child requires medication, you will also need the Authorization for Dispensing Medication form. You will be given an enrollment packet with all the forms that need to be completed.

 

Q: How long does it take to enroll my child(ren) at the Center?

A: The registration process usually takes about an hour, unless you have the forms filled out in advance. There are many forms required for the registration of your child(ren). We like to answer as many questions as possible during your enrollment and provide information on our safety procedures and other important items which are applicable at the time of registration.

 

Q: Can my child bring his/her favorite blanket or toy to school?

A: Yes, your child can bring his/her favorite blanket to school, however their favorite toy should be left at home to prevent damage or loss of the item. 

 

Q: What methods does Cornerstone Childcare Academy use for soothing my child?

A: The staff at Cornerstone Childcare Academy cares tremendously about the emotional state of your child. Upon the registration process, we have a “Getting to Know you Child” questionnaire.  Filling out this packet is extremely helpful to help us understand your child’s individual needs so that we can sooth them in the most effective manner. We like to use the same techniques that work for your child at home.

 

Q: Is there a special place for my child's belongings?

A: Yes! All children have their own cubby for their items located in each of the classrooms. Every personal item should be labeled with your child’s name. 

 

Q: What is the attendance policy when my child is ill?

A: We want your child to be healthy while at Cornerstone Childcare Academy. To ensure he/she stays healthy, we require that children do not attend school until they are fever-free for 24-hours - this helps keep your child and their classmates healthy.

Safety and Security

 

Q: What are some of Cornerstone Childcare Academy’s Safety Features?

A: Cornerstone Childcare Academy’s #1 priority is the safety of all the children in our care including monthly fire drills, routine lockdown procedures. We also have State-of-the-art technology that helps to ensure Cornerstone Childcare Academy is always safe and secure. From coded entry to internal video monitoring and limited points of entry, our security system, emergency drills and protocols devised by first responders.

 

Q: What is your procedure in the event of severe weather?

A: Cornerstone Childcare Academy has procedures in place in case of a hurricane, flood or other severe weather. If weather becomes severe, we will take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of children in our care. 

 

Q: Will my child be supervised at all times?

A: Yes! A member of our Care Team will be supervising your child at all times - even during quiet or nap time. Cornerstone Childcare Academy also adheres to Infant Safe Sleep guidelines and has implemented other policies for older children to have the safest possible environment while in our care.

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Q: What is the attendance policy when my child is ill?

A: We want your child to be healthy while at Cornerstone Childcare Academy. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we are required by law to exclude any child that is displaying a temperature of 100.4 degrees (f) or higher, is coughing, sneezing, or showing difficulty breathing. They may return when they are fever free for 24 hours. 

 

Q: What measures are being taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19 Cornerstone Childcare Academy?

A: The safety and well-being of all those in our Circle of Care is our highest priority. During this time of elevated concern, our center is staying up to date with the latest guidance regarding the health and safety of your child. Our facility is cleaned every day and throughout the day using a safe disinfectant, including all toys and equipment, classrooms, bathrooms, and offices. We are following all CDC, OSHA, state licensing regulations and guidelines:

 

  • Limited access of center visitors.

  • PPE equipment as necessary including face covering policy for all adults.

  • External drop-off and pick-up of children.

  • Strict screening process including temperature checks for families and staff.

  • Strict policy on illness exclusion, including staying home if exhibiting any symptoms such as a frequent cough, sneezing, or difficulty breathing.

  • Constant monitoring for signs and symptoms and continual temperature checks throughout the day.

  • Staff Training based on and regular practice of CDC and OSHA COVID19 Infection Plans and Procedures, and Center Emergency and Crisis Management Plan.

  • Post Enhanced Health & Safety Protocol and COVID-19 related signage in all classrooms and throughout the center.

  • Increase focus on good hygiene practices including frequency of handwashing and coughing and sneezing etiquette.

  • Provide hand sanitizer for adults as necessary.

  • Limited classroom group sizes, maintaining teacher-student ratios and limiting staff and children to one classroom during the day.

  • Increase sanitization of frequently touched surfaces and all toys and manipulatives after use.

  • Containment for all crib sheets, cot sheets and blankets, food utensils, and other personal items.

  • Limiting use of playground equipment to one classroom at a time and disinfecting in between classroom use.

  • Temporary suspension of group gathering such as special events.

  • Increased outdoor activity and lessons whenever possible.

 

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Q: Do you accept DCF Subsidies?

A: Yes! We are committed to making quality childcare accessible to everyone. You can view the current DCF income guidelines from the link provided on our Child Care Assistance Resource page. Please speak to the director or Visit CCRNJ.gov for more information. 

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Q: What types of payments do you accept?

A: We accept most major credit cards for payments. You can make a payment every Monday in person or on the Procare app. You can also set up automatic payments through Tuition Express (Procare) electronic payments. 

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Q: What are your tuition rates?

A: Tuition rates vary according to the age of your child. We encourage all prospective parents to come in and tour our facility and to further discuss our rates. Please call  (732) 838-5044 to schedule tour! 

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