Frequently asked questions about starting an ELO

Should I have children formally enroll in my ELO, or can they just drop-in?

Formal enrollment is very important to the safety and sensitivity of programs. It is essential for programs to have the most up to date information on children. For safety purposes, it is important to have contact information for those authorized by the parent or legal guardian to pick up the child and to have permission to transport in case of an emergency.

Enrollment time is also a great way to meet parents and find out information about the child's interests, values, and strengths. It also allows administrators to talk with parents about the program's mission, policies, procedures, and set the stage for future communication.

Drop-in programs are difficult to run safely. A program must be able to staff adequately for the number of children attending each day, and know where children are and exactly when the program is responsible for the children. Programs for older children can sometimes operate effectively under these constraints, but clear rules and understanding of responsibility must exist between the program, the parent, and the child.

How can I determine if children should pay to enroll?

Many programs base their sliding scale or fee waivers on the federal poverty guidelines. Often programs subsidize the costs for families earning below 120% of the federal poverty level, and may apply a sliding payment scale for families up to 250% of the federal poverty level. Most programs ask for pay stubs and divorce/child support documents and/or copies of recent IRS forms to determine family income and number of dependents.

How should children be transported to and from the site and to other ELO activities?

Programs should have clear policies on transportation. It is best not to allow staff to transport children in private vehicles unless parental permission and proof of insurance for the staff member are on file, and the ELO's insurance company has approved the staff person as an allowable driver.

Clear policies must also be in place on car safety, number of children per vehicle, and what first aid supplies must go with the group. Enrollment/contact information and permission to transport must be with the group at all times.

How can I keep the children in my ELO safe?

Policies should be in place that limit access to the site by strangers and for identifying strangers within minutes of their arrival. Parents should have unlimited access to the site.

Policies should also address violence by staff, parents, children and others. Programs should follow licensing regulations on safety and supervision as well as on fire and tornado drills. Other preventative measures should include drills and policies practiced with children regarding dangerous intruders, what to do when children see a dangerous weapon, and fire prevention as well as preventive work on conflict resolution, respect, and communication issues.

How can my ELO become licensed?

Licensing allows Ohio ELO programs to received federal funding. To learn more, contact:

• Ohio Department of Education at 614-466-0224
• Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services

Where can I receive some other help in starting up an ELO?

• Out-of-School Time Project in Ohio 614-224-0222, x160
• National Institute on Out-of-School Time
• National School Age Care Alliance
• The Finance Project
• North Central Regional Educational Laboratory

You can also contact your nearest Child Care Resource and Referral Agency.

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