Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs​

Is WKCDC a licensed childcare center?

Yes. WKCDC is a licensed childcare center through the Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) of the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care. We undergo annual inspections as well as unannounced visits from CCLD, Fire Safety, and Sanitation to ensure we consistently meet or exceed state standards for safe, quality childcare.

 

What are the requirements for teachers to work at WKCDC?

We hire experienced lead teachers who have a genuine love for children and are actively growing in their faith. All staff members provide strong references and are fingerprinted through the Central Background Registry.
 

Teachers are required to maintain the following certifications and training:

• First Aid & CPR

• Food Handler’s Certification

• Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect

• Introduction to Child Care Health and Safety

• Foundations for Learning (through the Child Care Licensing Division)
   

In addition, all teachers complete 15–20 hours of continuing education annually in child development, health and safety, and early childhood education.

 

What curriculum does WKCDC use?

At Willamette Kids, teachers design classroom-specific curriculum based on the unique needs, rhythms, and interests of the children. Weekly, child-centered lesson plans align with the Oregon Early Learning & Kindergarten Domains, which include:

• Approaches to Learning

• Social-Emotional Development

• Language and Communication

• Literacy

• Mathematics
   

School-wide monthly themes help guide instruction across classrooms. We also utilize ASQ screenings and Pre-K academic assessments annually to support each child’s individual growth and development.

 

What are your child-to-staff ratios?

We intentionally maintain low ratios to provide the highest level of care in a comfortable environment.

• Toddlers: 1 teacher per 5 children (maximum of 8 children)

• Preschool (ages 3–5): 1 teacher per 10 children (maximum class size of 15)

• School-age (ages 6–12): Typically 1 teacher per 15 children, with aides added when enrollment exceeds 10 children

 

Do you accept ERDC for payment?

Yes. We accept ERDC (Employment Related Day Care), a state program that helps eligible families cover childcare costs while working, attending school, or participating in job training. ERDC is administered through the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care and applications can be completed on their website.

 

Does WKCDC provide lunches?

At this time, WKCDC does not provide lunches. Parents are asked to send a bagged or boxed lunch daily that includes protein, grain, fruit, and vegetable components in accordance with certified childcare requirements.
 

We do provide two healthy snacks per day, following the Oregon CACFP Meal Pattern Guidelines. Organic milk and foods are used whenever possible.

 

My child doesn’t nap at home—will they need to nap at school?

Licensing regulations require that children in preschool settings receive at least 30 minutes of rest time during a full day of care. Each child will have a cot and rest quietly without toys for the first 30 minutes.
 

If a child does not fall asleep, they will be offered a quiet activity on their cot while others continue resting. Quiet time is observed daily from 12:00 PM–2:30 PM.

 

Do you help with toilet training?

Yes. Teachers in our 2-year-old classroom partner closely with parents to support toilet training. Consistency between home and school is required for success.

Children enrolled in the Fawns and Owls classrooms must be toilet trained, with only occasional accidents permitted during awake or sleep times.

 

What denomination is your center affiliated with?

WKCDC is a ministry of Willamette Christian Center. We adhere to the church’s statement of faith, which can be viewed here.