Frequently Asked Questions
THE CENTER
Q: Is Wonderwhiz Academy a licensed child care facility?
A: Yes, we are licensed by the State of Massachusetts and monitored closely by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education & Care. Wonderwhiz Academy carefully follows and exceeds all state regulations and recommendations. We are reviewed and relicensed every other year.
Q: What are your hours of operation?
A: We are open Monday through Friday from 7:30 am-5:30 pm.
There are two schedules for parents for choose: 7:30am - 5:30pm or 8:00am to 4:00pm.
Q: What ages do we serve?
A: 0-5 year old.
Q: What is the staff : child ratio for each age group?
A: 2:7 for infants room. 2:9 for infant-toddler or toddler/ preschool classroom. 1:10 or 2:13 for preschool Classroom
Q: How are the children separated into groups?
A: Our classrooms are divided by age and children’s development. We partner with your family to make the right classroom placement for your child, based on both their developmental readiness and age.
TEACHER
Q: What are the qualifications of the teachers?
A: ALL OF OUR TEACHERS:
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Are licensed teachers who meet strictly enforced state standards
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Have degrees in Early Childhood Education or a related field and/or extensive training in implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum
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Have undergone a rigorous reference check, health examination, criminal background check and an extensively interview process
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Are provided with on-going development and training about best practices and new research in the field.
CURRICULUM• DAILY PROGRAM
Q: What type of curriculum is followed at Wonderwhiz Academy?
A:Wonderwhiz Academy follows a curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, focusing on experiential learning where children co-create their learning journey based on their own curiosity and interests. This type of curriculum emphasizes hands-on, child-centered learning experiences. Check out Our Curriculum page under "About Us".
Q: What about learning and playing? Is there a balance?​
A: We believe that children learn best through play and that childhood should not be rushed. Children need the time and space to develop in their own unique way at their own pace. Because research tells us that children learn best through play, and play contributes to and enhances all areas of development in young children, play-centered learning is the basis of our curriculum.
Q: How will I know if my child is ready to attend?
A: We know each child is different, and you know your child best. We can help you make the best decision for your family, and will do everything we can to ease the transition for you and your child. Often, transition is more difficult for adults than for children, who are excited and engaged in new social and learning experiences. The most important part of “readiness” is open communication, so we work hard to keep you informed specifically about how your child is managing their transition, and if they are ready for our program.
Q: Does my child have to take a nap?
A: We never force a child to sleep. State regulations require us to provide rest time appropriate to the child’s age. Each child has a comfortable mat and sleeping gear. After lunch they spend time on their mat either to sleep or to engage in quiet activities.
Q:How are parents kept informed about their child’s day?
A: We update Parents through Procare Software, our childcare management platform.
Parents will see pictures, videos. Parents can message us and pay tuition all through Procare.
Q:How are parents kept informed about their child’s progress?
A: Teachers will create progress report for each child periodically.
Parents are welcome to ask for meeting anytime with our admin team.
WHAT TO BRING?
Q: What food do I need to provide?
A: Healthy nut-free lunch.
Q: What supplies do I need to provide?
A: We will provide a sheet of items for any new child.
HEALTH · SAFETY · SECURITY
Q: What about safety? How secure is the Center?​
A: The health and safety of your child is a top priority. Wonderwhiz Academy has a secured front door that stays locked at all times. Parents and authorized pick ups use our keypad for entry. No child is released to a non-authorized pick-up without written permission from a parent. All authorized pick-ups who are not known to Wonderwhiz Academy staff must present an ID the first time they pick up.
Q: What if my child needs medication during the day?
A: Wonderwhiz Academy has strict policies for administering medication to ensure each child is protected. All of our teachers are trained in medication administration and allergy management. We require a doctor’s authorization for any medication — prescription or over-the-counter — given to a child. Medications are stored securely out of the reach of children. We follow the Five Rights Practice for administering medication to children, and keep a detailed log of medication provided.
Q: What happens in the case of an emergency?
A: Our staff is trained regularly in emergency preparation, including fires, large-scale weather emergencies, and lockdown situations [see Severe Weather/Emergency Closing policy]. We have an emergency evacuation plan and review it frequently. We have both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and practice monthly evacuation drills.
TUITION · SCHEDULE
Q: How can I make childcare work around my schedule?
A: We pride ourselves on our flexibility and our support of all types of families.
Q: What are the tuition fees and how often will I be billed?
A: Tuition varies by different schedules and ages, please email us.
Parents usually schedule a tour in-person and obtain our information package. We would love to meet you in person! Tuition is billed every week. Billing can be set-up on auto-pay.
Q: What kinds of discounts do you offer?
A: Siblings obtain 5% tuition discounts.
Q: Do you have a waiting list?
A: We do have a waiting list. Please call to find out when you inquire. We may have a new location or new spots opening up for the dates you prefer. Please don't hesitate to schedule a tour and get on our waiting list.
Q: Do I have to pay for child care on days my child does not attend?
A: Tuition rates are determined and confirmed in advance, and you are responsible for payment to cover our on-going operations whether your child attends or not.
FAMILY PARTNERSHIP
Q: Can parents and families get involved in the program? 

A: Yes, we have school-wide social events or classroom parties throughout the year for parents and families (and staff!). We communicate daily with our families, and welcome their involvement and participation for a variety of activities and events.