Frequently Asked Questions

Is the center licensed by the state?

Yes, we are licensed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. We received our Non-Expiring License in March of 2005. A licensing representative will inspect our center at least once annually. You may visit the Department of Family and Protective Services website at: http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Child_Care/About_Child_Care_Licensing/

Are background checks conducted?

Background checks are conducted on all employees as they are hired and every two years thereafter. The background check includes an FBI fingerprint check and a DPS Central Registry Check.

What is your teacher to child ratio?

-Infant 1- 1:3 (state is 1:4) -Infant 2- 1:4 (state is 1:5) -Toddlers- 1:7 (state is 1:9) -2 Year-Old- 1:9 (state is 1:11) -3 Year-Old- 1:13 (state is 1:15) -4 Year-Old- 1:14 (state is 1:18) -School-Age- 1:15 (state is 1:26) We also have an assistant that "floats" between classes to assist as needed during busy times of the day.

What kind of training do the teachers have?

The center is staffed with administration and teachers specially trained in early childhood education. Each teacher will receive a minimum of 24 hours annually of staff development in early childhood, child development, first aid and CPR.

When is the center closed?

We are closed on the folloring holidays: New Year's Day, Good Friday, Battle of the Flowers Parade, Memorial Day, Independence Day, August Back to School Workday, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving Day, the Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Eve. (There may be an additional day added depending upon how the holidays fall within each year. Advance notice will be given upon any changes to the calendar.) If the holiday falls on the weekend, we will be closed on the Friday prior to or the Monday after the holiday.

What do the children do throughout the day?

In each classroom, children are given a variety of activities throughout each day. The schedule is carefully planned so that each child has a balance of self-initiated activities and teacher- initiated activities. Children are given the opportunity to work in small and large groups, have quiet and active time, develop both large and fine motor skills and have both indoor and outdoor play/learning time. The day is carefully planned in a manner which children can depend on routine and consistency, yet still enjoy the excitement of learning through play.

What is the policy on parents visiting the center?

Parents are welcome to visit the center at any time. We also invite parents to volunteer in the classroom or share any special talent they may have.

How do I go about setting up a tour?

We prefer that you call to schedule a tour (210-688-7003). It is important to us that your first visit be informative and all of your questions are answered. By scheduling a tour, we can ensure that you have a staff member's undivided attention. Once you have had your initial tour of The Mustard Seed, you may come back at any time unannounced to observe our daily routine. Please know that unannounced visits may result in the director being unavailable at that time.

What kind of security is at the center?

The center is equipped with a security system as you enter the building that allows only authorized persons to enter the classroom areas. A closed circuit TV system is set up that monitors classrooms.

What if my child gets hurt at the center?

Our goal is to prevent children from being injured while they are in our care. Having said this, we know that children are curious by nature. Should your child get hurt while at the center, staff members will follow the basic first aid procedures for injuries or accidents. Should further assistance be needed beyond the basic first aid, staff will provide immediate care and call the parent, child's physician, and/or EMS as needed. We will provide an accident/injury report to the parents for each occurence.

What if my child is taking medication? Can the center administer it?

Medication will be administered to children once the parents sign the authorization form. Medication is administered at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The medication must be in the original container labeled with the child's name, date received, directions and physician's name. Prescription medication will only be administered as stated on the label directions. Non-prescription/over-the-counter medications will be administered according to the medication guidelines and instructions on the label with a signed medication authorization form completed. The medication must be in the original container labeled with the child's first and last name. All medications will be stored in a secure location and administered by a designated staff member. Staff will document when the medication is administered on the authorization form.

When is tuition due?

Tuition is due on the first day of the week that the center is open. A late fee will be charged if tuition is not paid by Tuesday of the current week.

Can I pay the tuition monthly instead of weekly?

Yes, you may pay tuition monthly if this is more convenient for you. To figure the monthly total, calculate the number of weeks in the month and multiply by the weekly tuition rate. Monthly tuition is due at the first of each month.

What food is provided for my child?

The center will serve a hot, nutitious and delicious breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack. All of the meals are prepared on site and are planned to meet children's nutritional needs as set forth in The Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services Minimum Standard Rules for Licensed Child Care Centers.

Do you have a policy about biting?

Click on the following link for our biting policy. Biting Policy (PDF)

Do you have a waiting list of the classroom is full?

The center maintains a waiting list for the classrooms that are currently full. You may add your child's name to the waiting list by simply calling or stopping by the school. We also have a pre-registered list in which families have pre-registered by paying the registration fee. This moves you to the top of the waiting list, but we cannot give you a specific start date. The registration fee is non-refundable. Names on the waiting list will be kept for a year. If you would like your child's name to stay on the list for a longer period of time, you will need to let us know.

Is my child up to date on his/her immunizations?

Please view or download the Immunization Chart (PDF) to help determine if your child is current on immunizations. Also, once your child has turned 4 years of age, a vision and hearing screening must be completed and documented on the health statement by your child's physician. Click on the link for our current health statement form. (PDF).