DIAPERING

Regular and frequent diaper changing is part of the everyday routine at First Circle. To keep children comfortable and make hygiene a priority, we strictly follow the requirements and guidelines for safety and sanitation from the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) and the Department of Public Health (DPH). Specifically:

• diapers are changed or checked every two hours or immediately after a child has had a bowel movement
• teachers record in the child’s electronic record the time of each diapering, whether the child was wet or had a bowel movement, as well as any additional information
• each classroom or program has its own changing table, which is sanitized after each use, and children’s and teachers’ hands are washed

Diapering is an important opportunity for one-on-one interaction and for modeling language, learning about self-care and personal hygiene, and building trust between caregiver and child. As children gain more control over their body’s movements, we encourage them to participate in the process by lifting their legs and bottom, holding their feet, holding the diaper in place, and then progressing to pulling up or down pants, and washing/drying their hands.

Families provide all of their child’s diapering supplies, including diapers and wipes, and creams and ointments as desired. Due to the aspiration and irritation risks, we do not allow talcum powder or cornstarch to be used. If your child experiences diaper rash, we suggest an over-the-counter diaper cream or petroleum jelly. Please note, as required by EEC [see Health + Safety section]:

• Non-prescription topical ointments and sprays such as diaper creams, petroleum jelly, etc., can only be administered to a child with a signed Topical Medication Authorization form. The signed form is valid for one year and includes a list of topical non-prescription medications.
• In order to apply topical ointments to wounds or broken skin, First Circle must have an Authorization for Medication form signed by the child’s healthcare provider.

Please note that enrollment in any classroom at First Circle is not contingent upon a child’s ability to use the toilet.