Parent Handbook

Welcome to White Lotus Montessori

Welcome to our Montessori community! We are delighted that you have chosen White Lotus Montessori for your child's early learning journey. This handbook provides important information about our program, policies, and procedures. Please read it carefully and keep it for future reference.

At White Lotus Montessori, we believe every child is competent, capable, curious, and rich in potential. Our program is guided by the Montessori philosophy and aligned with How Does Learning Happen? Ontario's Pedagogy for the Early Years (HDLH). We are committed to providing a nurturing environment where your child can thrive, learn, and grow.

If you have any questions about the information in this handbook, please do not hesitate to speak with our staff or Director.

Mission

At White Lotus Montessori, we honour each child's natural path of development by creating a nurturing environment where curiosity, confidence, and independence can flourish. We believe every child holds unique potential, and through meaningful learning experiences, compassionate guidance, and respect for the whole child, we strive to help children grow into thoughtful, capable, and caring individuals who positively contribute to their community and the world around them.

Vision

To cultivate a peaceful and inspiring learning community where children are encouraged to think independently, explore confidently, and develop a lifelong love of learning within a warm, enriching, and child-centered environment.

Our Goals for Your Child's Growth

At White Lotus Montessori, we thoughtfully prepare engaging and stimulating learning experiences that support the academic, emotional, social, and personal growth of every child. We strive to:

• Create a sense of order, security, and calm through consistent routines and a thoughtfully prepared classroom environment.
• Build self-confidence, emotional awareness, and resilience within a caring and supportive atmosphere where every child feels valued.
• Encourage independence and initiative by allowing children to make choices, solve problems, and take ownership of their learning experiences.
• Strengthen focus, concentration, and attention span through purposeful hands-on learning and uninterrupted work periods.
• Foster curiosity, imagination, and creative thinking through opportunities for exploration, discovery, and meaningful inquiry.
• Develop perseverance, responsibility, and pride by encouraging children to complete meaningful tasks and contribute positively to their environment.
• Nurture kindness, empathy, respect, and collaboration while helping children understand the importance of community and working together.
• Support the growth of self-discipline and intrinsic motivation through guidance, consistency, and engaging learning experiences.
• Develop a joyful and positive attitude toward learning through individualized experiences that reflect each child's unique strengths, interests, and readiness.
• Inspire a lifelong love of learning by encouraging wonder, confidence, personal growth, and a strong sense of capability every day.

Services Offered

Programs and Age Groups

White Lotus Montessori is licensed by the Ministry of Education under the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014. We offer the following programs:

Fees

Base Fees

The following are our base fees for child care services:

Registration

As per the Ministry of Education's Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA) 2014, the following completed documents must be received and securely stored by the school before your child's first day at White Lotus Montessori:

• Registration Form
• Parental Contract
• Immunization Records
• Medication Information and Consent Form (if applicable)
• Anaphylaxis Alert and Emergency Plan (if applicable)
• Diaper Cream Authorization Form (if applicable)
• Sunscreen Authorization Form (if applicable)
• Sleep Consent Form (if applicable)
• Potassium Iodide Administration Consent Form
• Safe Arrival Policy

Operating Policies and Procedures

Waiting List Policy

• White Lotus Montessori does not charge a fee to join the waiting list.
• When space becomes available, families on the waiting list will be contacted in the order their names were added.
• Once contacted regarding an available space, families will have two (2) business days to complete the registration process and submit the required fees and documentation.
• If the school does not receive a response within the specified timeframe, it will be assumed that the family is no longer interested in the available placement, and the space may then be offered to the next family on the waiting list.

Application and Enrollment Procedures

• An application fee of $250.00 is required for each new application to hold a space.
• This fee is non-refundable and is not included in or deducted from the tuition fee.

Admission

Admission to White Lotus Montessori is based on availability and is offered on a first come, first-served basis from our waiting list. To enrol your child, parents must:

1. Complete and submit all required registration forms
2. Provide up-to-date immunization records (or valid exemption)
3. Pay the non-refundable registration fee
4. Pay the first month's fees and last month fees

White Lotus Montessori serves children ages 18 months to 6 years old with full-day, before-school, and after-school programs from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Holidays

White Lotus Montessori will be closed for the following statutory holidays:

• New Year's Day
• Family Day
• Good Friday
• Easter Monday
• Victoria Day
• Canada Day
• Civic Holiday
• Labour Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day
• Boxing Day

In addition, White Lotus Montessori will also be closed during:

• Winter Break (typically the last week of December and the first week of January)
• March Break (typically the second week of March)

Tuition and Fees

White Lotus Montessori is currently not enrolled in the CWELCC (Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care) Program.

Annual tuition fees are based on a standard 10-month academic year running from September through June. Families may choose from the following payment options:

• Payment in Full
• Monthly Installments

Refund Policy

Tuition fees are non-refundable after acceptance into the program.

There will be no deductions or refunds for:

• Withdrawal from the program
• Absences or non-attendance
• Holidays
• Sick days
• Vacation days
• Weather-related closures
• Other events beyond the school's control
• Missed days for any reason during the school year

There are no make-up days or switching days for missed attendance. Refunds will only be issued in the event of an overpayment.

Non-Base Fees

• Registration Fee (one-time, non-refundable): $250
• Late Pick-Up Fee: $1 per minute after 6:00 PM
• NSF/Returned Payment Fee: $25 per occurrence

Summer Program

Tuition for the July and August Summer Program will be payable via e-transfer to the school. Registration for the summer program will be based on a weekly schedule and rate.

A 5% sibling discount will be applied to families with more than one child enrolled at White Lotus Montessori.

Tuition fees at White Lotus Montessori are all-inclusive and include meals and school hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The After-School Program, running from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., will require an additional fee of $100.00 per month.

Payment Methods

Session Changes and Tuition Policies

Any requested changes to your child's schedule or program sessions must be submitted in writing by completing a Session Change Request Form through the school administration. Requests must be received at least two (2) weeks prior to the beginning of the upcoming month.

Please note that tuition installment plans do not exempt families from this policy. Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring that all tuition and applicable fees are paid according to the school's payment schedule. For students enrolling after the academic year has begun, tuition fees will be adjusted on a prorated basis according to the child's start date.

Tuition and Fee Adjustments

White Lotus Montessori reserves the right to review and adjust tuition and/or program fees annually in response to operational expenses, program enhancements, and educational improvements.

Families will receive written notice of any tuition or fee changes at least sixty (60) days before the new rates take effect. Updated fees will apply beginning with the next billing cycle or academic term following the notice period.

Safe Arrival Policy

To support the safety and well-being of all children, parents/guardians are required to drop off and pick up their child(ren) at the designated arrival and dismissal areas during scheduled program hours.

If a child will be absent or arriving late, parents/guardians must notify the school through email, voicemail, or direct communication with staff.

If a child is absent without notification, classroom educators will report the absence to the administration team. Should the absence remain unconfirmed by 9:30 a.m., school administration will contact parents/guardians by phone until the child's whereabouts and safety have been confirmed.

Pickup Policy

To maintain a safe, respectful, and well-organized environment for all children and staff, families are expected to pick up their children no later than 7:00 p.m.

Repeated late pickups may affect continued enrollment eligibility for the following school year. We appreciate families' cooperation and consideration for our educators and program operations.

If White Lotus Montessori is unable to contact parents/guardians or authorized emergency contacts by 7:00 p.m., appropriate authorities, including Children's Aid Society and/or local authorities, may be contacted in accordance with school policy and child safety procedures.

Program Hours

• Full-Day Program: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• After-School Program: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (additional fee of $100.00/month)

Payment Policies and Late Fees

• A $50.00 administrative fee will apply to any returned, declined, or unsuccessful Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) payment.
• Tuition payments received after the 5th of the month may be subject to a late fee of $50.00 for each additional week the payment remains outstanding.
• If an account becomes more than 30 days overdue, White Lotus Montessori reserves the right to suspend attendance until all outstanding balances and applicable fees have been paid in full.

Withdrawal and Discharge Policy

Families wishing to withdraw their child from White Lotus Montessori are required to provide a minimum of four (4) weeks written notice. All outstanding tuition fees and balances must be paid prior to the child's final day of attendance.

White Lotus Montessori reserves the right to discontinue enrollment if, in the professional judgment of the classroom educators and administration, it is determined that the program is no longer the best fit for the child or the school community. In such cases, tuition fees will be adjusted on a prorated basis where applicable.

Centre-Initiated Discharge

White Lotus Montessori reserves the right to discharge a child in the following circumstances:

• Non-payment of fees
• Failure to comply with centre policies
• The centre is unable to meet the child's needs despite reasonable efforts and consultation with parents and specialists
• Behaviour that poses a risk to the safety of other children or staff

Field Trips and Off-Site Activities

White Lotus Montessori may organize supervised walking excursions and educational outings within the local community as part of the learning experience, including:

• Neighbourhood walks
• Visits to local parks and playgrounds
• Field trips to community locations (library, fire station, etc.)

Children who are unable to participate in scheduled field trips or off-site activities will be required to remain at home for the duration of the outing.

Parents/guardians will be informed in advance of any field trips involving transportation, and notice will typically be provided at least one week prior to the scheduled activity. Staff-to-child ratios are maintained during all off-site activities, and safety procedures are followed at all times.

Parking

Parking spaces are available on-site for drop-off and pick-up; however, spaces are limited. We kindly ask that parents complete drop-off and pick-up as quickly as possible to allow other families access to available spots. Please avoid leaving your vehicle parked for extended periods.

Health, Safety, and Nutrition

Illness Policy

To protect the health of all children and staff, children must stay home if they have:

• Fever (38°C / 100.4°F or higher)
• Vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours
• Undiagnosed rash
• Contagious illness (pink eye, chicken pox, strep throat, etc.)
• Any symptoms that prevent comfortable participation in the program

Children who become ill at the centre will be isolated and parents will be contacted for immediate pick-up.

Nutrition

Meals and snacks are provided by the centre. We are committed to serving healthy, nutritious meals to support your child's growth and development.

Emergency Management

White Lotus Montessori has comprehensive emergency management policies and procedures in place to respond to various emergency situations including fire, severe weather, lockdown, and other emergencies.

Parent Notification

• For evacuations requiring relocation: Parents will be contacted by phone and/or text message with information about the evacuation location.
• For lockdown situations: Parents will be notified once the situation has been resolved and it is safe to do so.
• Emergency contact information must be kept up-to-date at all times.

Inclement Weather Policy

In the event of severe weather conditions (e.g., snowstorm, ice storm), the centre may close or delay opening. Parents will be notified by email as early as possible. Please ensure your contact information is current. If the centre closes early due to weather, parents will be contacted for early pick-up.

Prohibited Practices

In accordance with Ontario Regulation 137/15, section 48, the following practices are strictly prohibited at White Lotus Montessori. No staff member, student, or volunteer shall engage in any of these practices:

• (a) Corporal punishment of the child
• (b) Deliberate use of harsh or degrading measures on the child that would humiliate the child or undermine his or her self-respect
• (c) Depriving the child of basic needs including food, shelter, clothing, or bedding
• (d) Locking the exits of the child care centre for the purpose of confining the child
• (e) Using a locked or lockable room or structure to confine the child if he or she has been separated from other children
• (f) Inflicting any bodily harm on children including making children eat or drink against their will

Parent Issues and Concerns Policy

At White Lotus Montessori, we value open communication and encourage parents and guardians to take an active role in their child's educational experience. We are committed to fostering respectful, positive, and collaborative relationships among children, families, educators, and staff.

All concerns brought forward by parents or guardians will be taken seriously and addressed in a timely, fair, and respectful manner. Concerns may be shared verbally or in writing. An acknowledgement or initial response will generally be provided within one to two business days.

Confidentiality

All concerns, discussions, and records will be treated with confidentiality and sensitivity. Information will only be disclosed when required by law or by applicable governing authorities, including but not limited to the Ministry of Education, Children's Aid Society, law enforcement agencies, or professional regulatory bodies.

Conduct Expectations

Positive communication, mutual respect, and appropriate conduct are expected from parents/guardians, staff, educators, students, and visitors at all times. Harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or disrespectful behaviour will not be tolerated.

If any individual feels threatened, uncomfortable, or verbally mistreated during an interaction, they may end the conversation immediately and report the matter to school administration.

Concerns Regarding the Safety or Well-Being of a Child

Under Ontario law, all individuals, including educators, staff members, and members of the public, have a duty to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect. If a parent/guardian has concerns regarding the safety or well-being of a child, they are encouraged to contact the local Children's Aid Society (CAS) directly.

Procedures for Parent Concerns

Supervision of Students and Volunteers Policy

From time to time, White Lotus Montessori may welcome student interns and volunteers to support classroom learning experiences. All students, interns, and volunteers are required to follow the school's policies and procedures, including Ontario Regulation 137/15, s.11.1:

• Volunteers and students are never permitted to be alone with children and are not counted in staff-to-child ratios.
• Volunteers and students must be supervised by an employee of the centre at all times.
• All volunteers and students must have a valid Vulnerable Sector Check on file before interacting with children.
• Volunteers and students must review the centre's Program Statement and policies before interacting with children.

Emergency Management Policy

White Lotus Montessori maintains comprehensive Emergency Management Policies and Procedures to support the safety and well-being of all children, staff, and families. Families are required to provide current and accurate emergency contact information and must notify the school promptly of any updates or changes.

In the event that evacuation becomes necessary, children will be safely relocated to Whitby Public Library, the school's designated emergency meeting location.

Accident and Incident Reporting

Accident or incident reports will be completed whenever a child experiences an injury, accident, or unusual incident while attending the program, regardless of severity. Parents/guardians may be asked to review and sign these reports for documentation purposes.

Parents/guardians will be contacted promptly regarding any significant injury, including all head injuries.

Smoke-Free Policy

White Lotus Montessori follows all regulations outlined under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act. Smoking, vaping, or the use of tobacco or cannabis products is strictly prohibited on school property and within all childcare and educational areas.

Program Statement

At White Lotus Montessori, we are committed to creating a nurturing, respectful, and enriching learning environment that supports the development of the whole child. Our educational philosophy is inspired by authentic Montessori principles while aligning with the Ministry of Education's framework, How Does Learning Happen? We believe that children are competent, capable, curious, and rich in potential.

Our classrooms are thoughtfully prepared to encourage independence, concentration, creativity, collaboration, and joyful learning. We recognize that every child develops at their own pace and deserves an environment that honours their individuality, strengths, interests, and developmental needs.

Our Program Goals

Our program goals, aligned with Ontario Regulation 137/15, s.46(3), are to:

• Promote the health, safety, nutrition, and well-being of children
• Support positive and responsive interactions among children, parents, and staff
• Encourage positive communication and support children's self-regulation
• Foster exploration, play, and inquiry
• Provide child-initiated and adult-supported experiences
• Create positive, inclusive learning environments for all children
• Incorporate indoor/outdoor play, active play, rest, and quiet time
• Foster parent engagement and ongoing communication
• Involve local community partners
• Support staff in continuous professional learning
• Document and review the impact of our strategies

Our Montessori Learning Environment

Our classrooms are carefully designed to provide children with opportunities for purposeful exploration, independent learning, and hands-on discovery. Montessori materials are organized in a calm, orderly, and inviting environment that supports concentration, confidence, and self-motivation.

The classroom environment supports:

• Language and communication development
• Mathematical understanding
• Practical life skills
• Sensory exploration
• Cultural studies and geography
• Creativity and problem-solving
• Emotional and social growth
• Fine and gross motor development

Children are given uninterrupted periods of work time so they can fully engage in activities, repeat experiences, master concepts, and deepen their understanding through concentration and exploration.

Mixed-Age Classrooms and Community Learning

White Lotus Montessori values the importance of mixed-age learning communities. Children learn alongside peers of varying ages and developmental stages, creating opportunities for leadership, cooperation, empathy, and mentorship.

Younger children benefit from observing and learning from older peers, while older children strengthen their knowledge and confidence by guiding and supporting younger classmates.

Three-Year Learning Cycle

Children benefit greatly from remaining within the same classroom community for multiple years. This continuity provides consistency, emotional security, and deeper relationships between children, educators, and peers. The three-year learning cycle allows children to:

• Develop strong foundations
• Build confidence and independence
• Strengthen concentration and focus
• Master concepts through repetition
• Experience leadership opportunities
• Learn through observation and collaboration

Early Learning Goals and Expectations

A Sense of Belonging

Children are encouraged to develop meaningful relationships with educators and peers in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Through collaborative learning and shared experiences, children feel connected, valued, and supported.

A Sense of Well-Being

Children are supported in developing self-confidence, emotional awareness, self-regulation, and healthy daily habits. Practical life experiences encourage responsibility and care of self, others, and the environment.

Opportunities for Engagement

Children are actively engaged in hands-on experiences that encourage concentration, creativity, critical thinking, exploration, and problem-solving.

Opportunities for Expression

Children are encouraged to express themselves through conversation, movement, creativity, collaboration, and purposeful activity.

Nurturing Physical Health and Well-Being

Nutritious meals and snacks are provided daily, and we work closely with families to support individual dietary needs and allergy awareness. White Lotus Montessori maintains a nut-aware environment to help protect the safety of all children.

Outdoor Learning and Physical Development

Outdoor experiences are an important part of the daily routine at White Lotus Montessori. Children are provided with regular opportunities for movement, exploration, social interaction, and nature-based learning experiences. Outdoor environments encourage children to:

• Develop gross motor skills
• Build coordination and balance
• Explore nature and seasonal changes
• Participate in cooperative play
• Engage in creative and imaginative activities

Rest and Sleep

Children requiring rest periods during the day will be supported according to their developmental stage and individual needs. Families will be consulted regarding sleep routines and preferences to help ensure children feel comfortable and supported. Children will be supervised throughout rest periods in accordance with school policies and Ministry guidelines.

Grace and Courtesy

Grace and courtesy are essential elements of the Montessori environment. Educators model respectful communication, kindness, patience, and peaceful conflict resolution throughout the school day. Children are guided in learning how to speak respectfully to others, solve problems peacefully, listen actively, care for shared materials and spaces, develop empathy, and build positive relationships within the classroom community.

Role of the Educator

At White Lotus Montessori, educators serve as guides, observers, facilitators, and role models. They carefully observe each child's development, interests, and readiness in order to introduce meaningful activities that support growth and independence. Our educators strive to:

• Model calm and respectful behaviour
• Use clear and positive communication
• Encourage independence and problem-solving
• Support emotional and social development
• Create engaging and organized learning spaces
• Foster meaningful relationships with children and families

Observation, Documentation, and Family Partnership

Observation is an essential part of the Montessori approach. Educators carefully observe children's progress, interests, strengths, and developmental needs in order to thoughtfully plan activities and learning experiences. White Lotus Montessori values strong partnerships with families and encourages ongoing communication through regular updates, meetings, school events, and collaborative discussions.

Our Educators & School Policies

At White Lotus Montessori, our educators play a meaningful role in guiding each child toward reaching their full potential. Montessori teachers serve as respectful and thoughtful guides who carefully observe, support, and encourage children as they develop independence, confidence, creativity, and a love of learning.

Health & Safety Commitment

The safety and well-being of every child is a priority at White Lotus Montessori. All staff members are trained in CPR and Emergency First Aid for children.

Policies, Procedures & Individualized Plans

White Lotus Montessori is committed to ensuring that all policies, procedures, and individualized plans required under the Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA) are fully implemented within the school. These policies and procedures are reviewed regularly, and at minimum annually.

Staff Review & Ongoing Responsibility

All educators, volunteers, and placement students are required to review the school's Program Statement along with all policies and procedures required under O. Reg. 137/15.

Family Partnership & School Community

We value strong relationships between educators and families and believe that open communication and shared experiences help support each child's growth and development. Throughout the school year, families are invited to participate in a variety of meaningful school events and learning opportunities.

Classroom Experience Morning

Parents are invited to attend a scheduled classroom observation and participation session during the school year. During this guided experience, families quietly observe the classroom environment, explore selected Montessori materials, and gain insight into the structure of the morning work cycle.

Learning Celebration Evening

Toward the end of the school year, families are welcomed into the classroom for a special evening led by the children. Students proudly share activities, lessons, and classroom experiences that have been meaningful to them throughout the year.

Guest Speaker Series

Each year, guest speakers and professionals may be invited to share knowledge and current research related to child development, education, health, and well-being.

Parent–Teacher Interviews

Two parent-teacher interviews will be scheduled during the school year. Families are able to book individual meeting times to discuss their child's progress, strengths, goals, and classroom experiences.

Professional Development

All educators and staff are expected to engage in ongoing professional development to enhance their knowledge, teaching practices, and understanding of child development.

Anaphylaxis Policy and Procedures

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Preventing exposure to allergens and responding quickly in an emergency are essential to protecting children with severe allergies. This policy aligns with the requirements of Sabrina's Law and Ontario Regulation 137/15.

Individualized Plans and Emergency Procedures

Before a child begins attending the centre, the Director/designate will meet with the child's parent(s)/guardian(s) to gather information regarding any medical conditions, including whether the child has an anaphylactic allergy or is at risk of anaphylaxis. For every child diagnosed with an anaphylactic allergy, an individualized plan and emergency procedure will be created before the child starts attending the centre.

The individualized plan will include:

• The child's specific allergens
• Symptoms and warning signs of an allergic reaction
• Monitoring and avoidance strategies
• Emergency procedures and treatment steps to follow during a reaction

Each child's epinephrine auto-injector must remain with the child or be immediately accessible at all times.

Strategies to Reduce Exposure to Allergens

• Foods with unknown ingredients will not be served.
• Foods labelled with “may contain” warnings will not be served in classrooms where children have allergies to those ingredients.
• The cook, caterer, or food provider must provide ingredient information for all meals and snacks.
• Educators will supervise children during meals and snacks to ensure food is not shared or exchanged.
• Craft materials, sensory items, and toys containing known allergens will not be used.

Training

The Director/designate, educators, students, and volunteers will receive annual training on recognizing the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, emergency response procedures, and administering epinephrine auto-injectors. Written records of all training sessions will be maintained by the child care centre.

Glossary

Anaphylaxis: A severe systemic allergic reaction which can be fatal, resulting in circulatory collapse or shock. Symptoms may include hives, swelling, coughing, wheezing, nausea, vomiting, pale/blue colour, weak pulse, or dizziness.

Common allergens include: eggs, insect stings, latex, milk, mustard, peanuts, seafood, sesame, soy, sulphites, tree nuts, and wheat.

Epinephrine: A drug used to treat allergic reactions, particularly anaphylaxis, often delivered through an auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen or Allerject).

Policies and Procedures Available Upon Request

• Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures
• Emergency Management Policies and Procedures
• Sanitary Practices Policies and Procedures
• Tuition and Fee Schedule
• After-School Program Policies
• Serious Occurrence Policies and Procedures
• Program Statement
• Program Statement Implementation Policy
• Safe Arrival Policy
• Waiting List Policy and Procedures
• Parent Issues and Concerns Policy
• Supervision of Students and Volunteers Policy
• Parent Concerns and Communication Policy and Procedures
• Outdoor Play Area and Playground Safety Policy
• Anaphylaxis and Allergy Awareness Policy and Procedures
• Criminal Reference Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening Policy
• Staff Training and Professional Development Policy
• Sleep Supervision Policy and Procedures
• Medication Administration and Medical Support Policy

Additional Resources

For more information about early years programming in Ontario:

• How Does Learning Happen? Ontario's Pedagogy for the Early Years: ontario.ca/page/how-does-learning-happen
• Child Care Licensing in Ontario: ontario.ca/page/child-care-rules-child-care-and-early-years-act
• Find and Pay for Child Care: ontario.ca/page/find-and-pay-child-care

Parent Acknowledgment

Version 1.0  |  Last Updated: May 14th, 2026