Parents in Programs

Parents are always welcome in UFCC programs. UFCC recognizes that families know their children best, and we look forward to working together with them to ensure their children receive the maximum benefit from our programs.

When You Have concerns

If families have a concern, they can arrange to speak with their child’s educator at a time and place that is mutually convenient. It is important to us that we have a place where confidentiality is preserved, and our educators can take the time to fully understand a family’s concerns. It would not be fair to families or to the children in the program if we engaged in these conversations while the educator is engaged with the children. Alternatively, families can bring their concerns forward in writing.

If the concern cannot be resolved through a conversation with the staff member, it may be suggested that the Supervisor become involved in the discussion. The Supervisor can also be contacted directly to request assistance. The Supervisor is ultimately responsible for the quality of programs and will work with all involved to address issues and resolve concerns as quickly as possible.

Most conflicts are resolved at the centre or Supervisor level; however, families do have the opportunity to request the involvement of the Program Manager.

The concern may be able to be resolved right away. If not, families will be contacted within 24 hours by a UFCC staff member with an update. We endeavor to resolve all complaints within one week.

The following guide will help you know who to contact. Please visit our Locations Page to view your centre’s contact information or call our Head Office at 905.312.9836 to obtain contact information for the person to whom you wish to speak.

TYPE OF CONCERN	WHO TO CONTACT
Program-related concerns (e.g. scheduling, sleep arrangements, toilet training, indoor/outdoor program activities, feeding arrangements, etc.)	• Raise the issue or concern with the classroom staff directly. • There is also the option of speaking to the Program Supervisor.
Fees, hours of operation, staffing, waiting lists, menus, etc.	• Contact the Program Supervisor.
Staff, supervisor or volunteer-related	• You have the option of raising the concern directly with the individual or you may want to speak to the Supervisor or Program Manager. • Any concerns about the conduct of staff or volunteers that puts a child’s health, safety and well-being at risk should be reported to the Supervisor as soon as parents/guardians become aware of the situation.

Concerns About the Suspected Abuse or Neglect of a Child

• Everyone, including members of the public and professionals who work closely with children, is required by law to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect.
• If a parent/guardian expresses concerns that a child is being abused or neglected, they will be advised to contact the local children’s aid society (HCFS or CCAS) directly.
• Staff who become aware of such concerns are also responsible for reporting this information to HCFS or CCAS as per the “Duty to Report” requirement under the Child and Family Services Act.
• For more information, visit: http://www.children.gov.on.ca/htdocs/English/childrensaid/reportingabuse/index.aspx.

Contacts for Families

NAME	CONTACT INFO
College of Early Childhood Educators	416-961-8558 | Email
Hamilton Child and Family Supports	905-522-1121 | Email
Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Hamilton	905-525-2012 | Contact
Ministry of Education, Licensed Child Care Help Desk	1-877-510-5333