Family Guide

Program Hours

Before & After School Care (September – June)

• Monday to Friday

• 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Spring Break Care

• 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Early drop off (from 7am) and extended pick up (until 6pm) available for an additional fee

Summer Camps (July – August)

• 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Early drop off (from 8am) and extended pick up (until 5pm) available for an additional fee

School Year Calendar (2026/2027)

Creō Kids follows the Surrey School District (SD36) calendar for all school closures, statutory holidays, and non-instructional days.

School Year Dates

• School Year Begins: September 8, 2026

• School Year Ends: June 25, 2027 (administrative day / schools closed)

Non-Instructional Days (No School – Pro D Day Care Available)

• September 25, 2026

• October 23, 2026

• November 6, 2026

• February 12, 2027

• May 7, 2027

• May 21, 2027

Statutory Holidays (Closed)

• September 30, 2026 — National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

• October 12, 2026 — Thanksgiving Day

• November 11, 2026 — Remembrance Day

• February 15, 2027 — Family Day

• March 26, 2027 — Good Friday

• March 29, 2027 — Easter Monday

• May 24, 2027 — Victoria Day

Winter Break (Potentially Open for Camps)

• December 21, 2026 – January 1, 2027

• Schools reopen: January 4, 2027

Spring Break & School Closure Period (Open for Camps)

• March 15 – March 19, 2027 — Spring Break

• March 22 – March 25, 2027 — School closure days

• Schools reopen: March 30, 2027

Important Notes

• Calendar dates follow the Surrey School District 36 official schedule

• Families will be notified of any changes or updates in advance

Creō Kids is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and engaging environment led by qualified and nurturing staff.

Our program is designed to offer children opportunities to explore, create, and learn through a variety of creative experiences. We believe that creative expression plays an important role in a child’s development by supporting communication, confidence, and overall wellbeing.

Through both structured activities and open-ended creative play, children are encouraged to develop skills across social, emotional, physical, and cognitive areas in a positive and inclusive setting.

Creō Kids is committed to providing a program that supports the individual needs of each child while promoting confidence, independence, and positive character development.

The safety and well-being of all children is a top priority and is maintained through consistent supervision, established procedures, and adherence to all licensing requirements. Clear expectations for behaviour are introduced and reinforced within the program. Children are supported in developing self-regulation skills through guidance, consistency, and positive reinforcement strategies that encourage respectful interactions.

Our program offers a variety of activities designed to engage children with different interests and energy levels. These include:

• Arts and crafts

• Open-ended creative projects

• Outdoor play

• Group games and activities

• Science-based exploration

• Reading and quiet time

• Homework support (where applicable)

Children are encouraged to make choices based on their interests and comfort level. Recognizing that children may arrive after a full school day, the program is structured to provide both active and quiet options. Designated spaces are available to support a balance of movement, rest, and social interaction, while also encouraging the development of cooperation and problem-solving skills.

Program Details:

• Licensed staff-to-child ratio: 1:12

• Participation in the Affordable Child Care Benefit (ACCB)

• Participation in the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative (CCFRI)

Monthly Fee Commitment

Enrollment in our Before & After School Care program requires a monthly fee commitment from September through June.

Fees are subject to an annual review in March, with any approved adjustments taking effect in April.

All listed fees reflect the BC Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative (CCFRI) reduction and apply to both Kindergarten and Grades 1–6.

Program Options

Option A – Includes School Closure Days

• Includes 7 Pro-D Days and Spring Break care based on your child’s registered schedule

• Example: If your child attends 2 days per week, 2 days per week of Spring Break care are included

• Additional days may be registered for an extra fee, subject to availability

Option B – School Days Only

• Care is provided only on days when school is in session

• Does not include Pro-D Days or Spring Break

To confirm enrollment in the program:

• A $250 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your child’s space

• This deposit will be applied toward your first month’s fees

• Completion of the online registration form is required prior to your child’s start date

• A $75 annual registration fee per child applies to all families

• This fee will be billed with your first month’s payment

• This fee is non-refundable

• Monthly fees are due on or before the 1st of each month (September through June)

• Payments must be made via e-transfer to info@creokids.ca

• Families are encouraged to set up automatic e-transfers to avoid late payments

• Families are responsible for applying for the Affordable Child Care Benefit (ACCB) directly through the government

• All required documentation must be submitted by the family

• Once approved, the monthly benefit amount will be paid directly to Creō Kids and applied to your fees

Late Payments

• A $50 late fee will be applied to any payment received after the 1st of the month

Refund Policy

• Monthly fees are non-refundable, in whole or in part

• This includes absences due to:

  • Illness

  • Family vacations

  • School closures

  • Weather-related closures

  • Power outages

Receipts

• Annual childcare tax receipts will be issued by the end of February for the previous calendar year

Withdrawal Policy

• A minimum of one full month’s written notice is required for withdrawal

• Notice must be submitted before the 1st of the final month of attendance

• Upon withdrawal, all future registrations will be cancelled

IMPORTANT:

Withdrawal requests submitted after March 31 will not be accepted for the current school year

• Families remain financially responsible for fees from April through June if:

  • Notice was not provided by March 31, and

  • The space cannot be filled

Creō Kids values clear, respectful, and consistent communication with families. Open communication supports the wellbeing of children and helps ensure a positive and well-coordinated program experience.

General Communication

• Families are encouraged to communicate any relevant updates, concerns, or changes in routine directly with staff

• Staff will communicate important program information, updates, and reminders through email or other approved communication methods

• Families are responsible for reviewing communications in a timely manner

Contacting the Centre

• The primary method of contact is phone or email to the studio

• Phone calls should be used for urgent matters, including:

  • Absences or changes to pick-up arrangements

  • Emergency situations

  • Time-sensitive concerns

• Email may be used for non-urgent communication, including general questions or updates

During Program Hours

• Staff are actively supervising children and may not be able to respond immediately to calls, messages, or emails

• All communication will be responded to as soon as reasonably possible

• For urgent matters, families should call the studio directly rather than relying on email or other messaging platforms

Changes to Pick-Up or Schedule

• Any changes to a child’s pick-up routine or schedule must be communicated in advance whenever possible

• Last-minute changes should be communicated by phone to ensure timely and accurate updates

Respectful Communication

Creō Kids is committed to maintaining a respectful and professional relationship with families. We ask that all communication between families and staff remain respectful in tone and content.

Any behaviour that is disrespectful, aggressive, or disruptive may impact the continuation of services.

Drop-Off & Pick-Up Procedures

• All children must be signed in and out daily by a parent/guardian or authorized individual.

• The sign-in/sign-out sheet is located at the front desk.

• Any individual picking up a child is required to sign out the child at the time of pick-up.

Only individuals listed as authorized pick-ups will be permitted to collect a child.

If someone not listed will be picking up your child:

• Families must provide advance notice by phone, email, or text

• Verbal confirmation may be required prior to release

• Identification may be requested

Changes to Pick-Up Routine

Families are responsible for notifying the program of any changes to their child’s regular schedule, including:

• Early pick-up from school

• Child going home with a friend

• Absences due to illness or appointments

• Any change affecting after-school attendance

Clear communication is essential. If a child does not arrive as expected and no notice has been provided, staff are required to follow up to ensure the child’s safety.

Absences

• Families must notify the program in advance if their child will be absent

• Notification can be made by phone or email

Late Pick-Up

• If you anticipate being late, please contact the studio as soon as possible

• Occasional delays are understood; however, repeated late pick-ups may result in additional fees to cover staffing requirements

Parking

• Street parking is available in front of the studio and in the surrounding area

• Additional parking is available in the rear lot of the building

To ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children, the following release procedures are strictly enforced:

1. Children will only be released to individuals listed on the child’s registration form as authorized pick-ups.

2. Children will not be released to any individual not listed unless prior written or verbal authorization has been received directly from a parent/guardian.

3. Children will not be released to siblings or other individuals under the age of 12.

4. Individuals listed as emergency contacts may be contacted if a parent/guardian cannot be reached. Situations requiring emergency contact may include, but are not limited to:

   • Illness or injury

   • A child requiring immediate pick-up (e.g., vomiting or unwell)

   • Late pick-up where a parent cannot be reached after 20 minutes

   • Behaviour that presents a safety risk to the child, other children, or staff

   It is the responsibility of families to ensure emergency contacts are aware of their role and are available if needed.

5. If an authorized individual arrives to pick up a child and appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or otherwise unable to provide safe care:

   • Staff will request that an alternate authorized person pick up the child

   • If the individual refuses and staff believe the child’s safety is at risk, the program is legally required to contact the appropriate authorities, including the Ministry of Children and Family Development or police if necessary

6. If a child is not picked up by closing time, the following steps will be taken:

   • Attempt to contact parents/guardians

   • Attempt to contact emergency contacts

   • Notify the Program Director

   If no contact is made within 45 minutes of closing, the Ministry of Children and Family Development and/or RCMP will be contacted for further assistance.

Custody Agreements

• Where legal custody arrangements restrict access to a child, a copy of the official custody agreement must be provided and kept on file

• Without appropriate legal documentation, the program cannot deny a parent access to their child

Daily Snacks

Parents/guardians are required to provide their child with a nutritious afternoon snack each day. Snacks help maintain energy levels and support participation in program activities.

• Children may eat snacks when they are hungry at designated eating areas

• Snack times are flexible and based on individual needs

Full-Day Care (Pro-D Days & Camps)

For full-day programs, parents/guardians must provide:

• A nutritious lunch

• Two snacks

All food must be packed in an insulated lunch bag with an ice pack, as refrigeration is not available for children’s lunches.

Sample Daily Schedule (approximate):

• Morning Snack: 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM

• Lunch: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM

• Afternoon Snack: 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Food Guidelines

• Occasional treats may be provided by the program for special events (e.g., birthdays or holidays)

• Children may occasionally eat outdoors or have picnic-style meals during warmer months

• Foods such as pop, candy, chips, and gum are not permitted during program hours and should be kept for home

Food Allergies & Dietary Restrictions

• Families must inform the program of any food allergies or dietary restrictions during registration

• Staff will follow all written instructions provided by parents/guardians

• Families will be notified of any serious allergies within the program to ensure awareness and safety

Nut-Free Policy

Creō Kids is a nut-free facility.
All food brought into the program must be free of nuts and nut products.

When a Child Must Stay Home

Children must remain at home and alternate care arrangements must be made if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms or conditions:

• Fever (38°C / 100.4°F or higher)

• Vomiting or nausea

• Diarrhea (especially when accompanied by vomiting, nausea, or abdominal cramps)

• Acute cold symptoms (including runny nose, cough, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or red/runny eyes)

• Undiagnosed rash or infected skin or eyes

• Headache accompanied by a stiff neck (medical evaluation required)

• Severe itching of the body or scalp (including suspected or confirmed head lice; exclusion required for 72 hours following treatment)

• Any confirmed communicable disease

• Any condition that prevents the child from participating comfortably in the program or poses a risk to others

Illness While in Care

• If a child becomes ill while at the studio, they must be picked up as soon as possible by a parent/guardian or authorized emergency contact

• The child will be cared for in a safe, comfortable space while awaiting pick-up

Reporting Absences & Communicable Diseases

• Families must notify the program by phone or email if their child will be absent due to illness

• If a child has been exposed to a communicable disease, families must inform the centre within 24 hours

• In the event of a confirmed communicable disease within the program:

  • Licensing authorities will be notified as required

  • Families will be informed in accordance with Fraser Health Licensing guidelines and provided with any necessary instructions

Health Guidance

For additional information regarding childhood illnesses, families may contact the:
BC Nurse Line: 8-1-1 (24-hour service)

Creō Kids is legally required to report any suspected or disclosed abuse or neglect in accordance with provincial legislation.

• All staff are mandated reporters under the applicable child protection laws

• Failure to report suspected abuse may result in legal consequences

When a concern is identified:

• Staff are not permitted to contact parents/guardians unless specifically instructed to do so by the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) or law enforcement

• Reports are made solely for the purpose of protecting the child’s safety and wellbeing

• Staff do not investigate or determine whether abuse has occurred

The responsibility for investigation and determination of need for protection rests solely with the Ministry of Children and Family Development and/or law enforcement authorities.

Our primary responsibility is to act in the best interest of the child by ensuring concerns are reported promptly and appropriately through the required legal channels.

At Creō Kids, we use positive, respectful, and developmentally appropriate guidance strategies to support children’s behaviour. Different approaches may be used depending on the child and the situation, as no single strategy is effective in every circumstance.

Our goal is to help children develop self-regulation, problem-solving skills, and positive social interactions in a safe and supportive environment.

The following approaches are used to guide behaviour:

Positive Behaviour Support

• Clear, consistent expectations are set by explaining what is expected in an age-appropriate manner

• Staff take time to explain why expectations are in place, using calm, respectful, and supportive communication

• Positive behaviour is reinforced through specific praise, encouragement, and positive attention

• Acknowledging appropriate behaviour helps children understand and repeat positive choices

Redirection & Reminders

• Children may be redirected to another activity or area when appropriate

• Gentle reminders are used to support children in remembering expectations during play and group activities

Problem-Solving & Communication

• Children are encouraged to use problem-solving strategies to resolve conflicts and challenges

• Staff support children in expressing their feelings and needs using words, helping build communication and trust

Choice & Decision-Making

• Children are offered age-appropriate choices to support independence and decision-making skills

  • Example: “Would you like to wait here for your turn or choose another activity and I will call you when it’s your turn?”

Natural & Logical Consequences

• Children are supported in understanding the natural outcomes of their actions in a respectful and educational way

  • Example: “If a cup is placed on the edge of the counter, it may fall and spill. Let’s use a sponge to clean it up.”

Prohibited Practices

The following practices are strictly prohibited at Creō Kids at all times:

• Corporal punishment (including spanking, hitting, shaking, or any form of physical punishment)

• Deprivation of food, snacks, or access to washroom facilities

• Verbal abuse, including yelling, shaming, or name-calling

All staff are required to maintain a respectful, supportive, and non-punitive approach to behaviour guidance at all times.

In accordance with Fraser Health Child Care Licensing requirements, Creō Kids is committed to supporting the overall health, wellbeing, and physical development of all children in our care.

Active play is incorporated into all programs through both planned activities and opportunities throughout the day, where appropriate.

Definition of Active Play

Active play refers to physical activity that includes moderate to vigorous movement, raising a child’s heart rate and potentially causing them to “huff and puff” (e.g., running, jumping, and active games).

All activities are age-appropriate and designed to meet daily physical activity requirements.

Benefits of Active Play

Active play supports:

• Healthy growth and development

• Strength, balance, and coordination

• Gross motor (large muscle) and fine motor (small muscle) skills

• Confidence and social interaction

• Focus, learning, and overall wellbeing

Daily Active Play Requirements

Creō Kids meets or exceeds the following minimum daily active play standards:

• Programs 2–3 hours: Minimum of 30 minutes

• Programs 3+ hours: Minimum of 60 minutes

Active play may be accumulated throughout the day in increments of at least 15 minutes or in longer continuous sessions.

Whenever possible, active play will take place outdoors, weather and space permitting.

Types of Activities

Planned active play may include, but is not limited to:

• Obstacle courses

• Sports and movement-based games

• Group games

• Playground activities

Programming is flexible and may change daily based on:

• Weather conditions

• Children’s interests and energy levels

• Seasonal opportunities (e.g., nature play, snow play, outdoor exploration)

Off-Site Play Area

Creō Kids utilizes the grounds of White Rock Elementary as an off-site outdoor play area.

• Parent/guardian written consent is required for participation in off-site play

• Distance from the centre is approximately 38 metres (50 steps)

• Children walk to the site using sidewalks and a marked crosswalk with flashing lights

Safety Procedures

To ensure safety during off-site play:

• The play area is fully fenced and appropriate for school-aged children

• Staff conduct a visual safety check of the area prior to use (e.g., checking for hazards such as debris or unsafe materials)

• Children are instructed to report any unsafe conditions immediately

• Staff carry a safety kit, including:

  • First aid supplies

  • Disposable gloves

  • Garbage bags

  • A mobile phone

Washroom Procedures

• Children are encouraged to use the washroom before leaving the centre

On School Days:

• Washrooms at White Rock Elementary may be available until approximately 4:00 PM

• A staff member will accompany children to the entrance, supervise access, and return with them safely

On Non-School Days:

• A staff member will escort children back to the centre to use the washroom and return safely to the play area

Outdoor Play Schedule

Before & After School Care:

• Outdoor play typically occurs after school for approximately 20–30 minutes prior to returning to the centre

• Additional outdoor time may occur later in the afternoon (approx. 4:00–4:30 PM)

• Timing may vary based on weather and children’s preferences

Pro-D Days & Camps:

• Outdoor play is scheduled approximately every 1.5 to 2 hours

• Smaller groups may rotate outdoors to ensure appropriate supervision

Community-Based & Off-Site Activities

Portions of our program may take place within the local community, weather permitting. Children may participate in supervised outings to nearby areas such as the beach, parks, fields, and walking trails.

Activities may include:

• Nature walks

• Scavenger hunts

• Outdoor exploration and group games

• Other planned activities based on children’s interests and program themes

All off-site activities are planned with safety, supervision, and age-appropriateness in mind.

Supervision & Safety

• Children will be actively supervised at all times while off-site

• Staff will carry a mobile phone, first aid kit, and children’s emergency information during all outings

• Attendance will be monitored before, during, and after transitions to ensure all children are accounted for

Creō Kids is committed to providing regular, safe, and engaging opportunities for children to be active, supporting their physical, social, and emotional development.

Creō Kids maintains a no personal device use policy during program hours to support engagement, safety, and positive social interaction.

• Personal devices (including phones, tablets, smart watches, and similar electronics) must remain stored in children’s backpacks while in our care

• Devices are not permitted to be used at any time during program hours

• Staff are not responsible for monitoring, storing, or supervising personal devices

We recognize that families may wish to remain in contact with their child during program hours. If needed, parents/guardians are always welcome to contact the centre directly, and staff will ensure messages are relayed appropriately.

Creō Kids maintains a comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP) to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children and staff in the event of an emergency.

• Fire drills are conducted monthly

• Emergency preparedness procedures are reviewed and practiced annually

Staff Training & Procedures

• The full Emergency Preparedness Plan is included in the Staff Policy Manual, which is kept in an accessible location at all times

• A step-by-step emergency procedure guide is posted in a visible area within the studio

• Staff are required to review and follow all emergency procedures

• A log of all drills is maintained and updated following each practice

Regular drills help ensure that both staff and children are familiar with emergency procedures and can respond safely and efficiently.

Emergency Supplies

• Emergency supplies are stored in a clearly labeled “Emergency Kit” located behind the front desk

• The kit is maintained and accessible for use during emergencies

Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency:

• Staff will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety, supervision, and comfort of the children

• Children will be supervised at all times and emergency procedures will be followed as outlined in the EPP

Families are asked not to contact the centre during an emergency, as phone lines must remain available for emergency services and essential communication.

Updates will be provided to families as soon as it is safe and appropriate to do so.

Creō Kids appreciates the cooperation and understanding of all families in supporting these procedures, which are in place to ensure the safest possible response in any emergency situation.

Snow Closures

• In the event of significant snowfall, Creō Kids will follow the closure decisions of Surrey Public Schools

• If schools are closed, the program will also be closed

• The program may also close if staff are unable to safely travel to the centre

• Families will be notified directly of any closures as soon as possible

Power Outages

• In the event of a power failure, staff will contact BC Hydro to determine the estimated restoration time

• If power is expected to be restored within two hours, the program will continue operations where safe to do so

• If power is expected to be out for more than two hours, or no restoration time is available:

  • Families will be contacted to pick up their child as soon as possible, or

  • Families will be notified not to drop off their child if the outage occurs before the program begins

Families are strongly encouraged to have a backup childcare plan in place in case of unexpected closures or early pick-up requirements.

Withdrawal Policies

Notice of Withdrawal

• A minimum of one full month’s written notice is required to withdraw from the program

• Written notice must be received before the 1st of the final month of attendance

• If proper notice is not provided, families are responsible for one month’s fees in lieu of notice

Due to program capacity and staffing requirements:

• Withdrawal requests will not be accepted after March 31 for the current school year

Schedule Changes

• All schedule changes (including reducing days or changing attendance) must be submitted in writing with a minimum of one month’s notice

• Schedule changes are subject to availability and are not guaranteed

• Requests to reduce days or attendance may be treated as a partial withdrawal, and the same notice and fee requirements will apply

• Creō Kids cannot guarantee that previously held days or spaces will be available if a schedule is reduced or changed

Program-Initiated Withdrawal

Creō Kids reserves the right to terminate services immediately, with or without notice, in situations that negatively impact the safety, wellbeing, or operation of the program.

This may include, but is not limited to:

• Ongoing late pick-ups

• Failure to pay fees when due

• Inappropriate or disrespectful behaviour by a parent/guardian or child

• Behaviour that disrupts the program or poses a risk to staff or other children

• Repeated inability to follow program policies

These examples are not exhaustive. Creō Kids reserves the right to determine when withdrawal of services is necessary.

Program Changes

Creō Kids reserves the right to modify, reschedule, or cancel programs or services at any time within the program year, as required for operational, licensing, or staffing reasons.

Creō Kids may capture photographs, video, and/or audio recordings (“Media”) of children during programs for use on our website, social media platforms, and promotional materials.

• Creō Kids retains full ownership and rights to all Media collected

• Media may be used at the program’s discretion for marketing, promotional, and communication purposes

By enrolling your child, you grant permission for your child’s image to be used without further notice or approval, unless otherwise indicated.

• Families who do not wish for their child to be included in Media must notify the program in writing at the time of registration