Tuition
&
Rates
At Little Embers Family Childcare, we provide nurturing, personalized care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Our rates are transparent, and everything included in tuition is listed below
Reserved hours ensure stable and predictable childcare operations. Licensing limits how many children may attend at one time, so each child’s reserved schedule holds a dedicated slot that cannot be offered to another family. Weekly tuition covers this reserved space, as the program’s operating expenses—such as staffing, utilities, supplies, food, and insurance—remain the same regardless of attendance. For these reasons, payment is based on the schedule reserved, not the hours used, and short weeks or holidays do not reduce tuition.
What’s Included with Tuition?
Daily Care & Supervision
Individualized attention and attentive caregiver supervision.
Secure childcare spot reserved regardless of attendance.
Positive behavior guidance using redirection and reinforcement.
Collaboration with parents for behavior plans if needed.
Individualized learning curriculum tailored to age and developmental stage.
Social-emotional development: peer interaction, sharing, turn-taking, empathy.
School readiness preparation for toddlers and preschoolers.
Cognitive skill-building activities: puzzles, blocks, sensory bins, and problem-solving tasks.
Fine & gross motor development: climbing, obstacle courses, ball play, dance, and movement activities.
Arts & creativity: painting, playdough, crafts, and sensory art projects.
Music & rhythm activities: songs, instruments, and movement games.
Meals & Nutrition
Nutritious meals and snacks prepared according to CACFP guidelines.
Meals provided daily (breakfast, lunch, and snack included).
Special diet accommodations discussed with parents when needed.
Indoor & Outdoor Play
Weather-permitting outdoor activities for gross motor development and fresh air.
Safe, age-appropriate indoor play for sensory exploration and learning.
Opportunities for imaginative play, role-playing, and social engagement.
Health, Safety & Hygiene
Sick child policy: up to 3 unpaid sick days per calendar year.
Emergency contact and medical authorization forms required for each child.
Supervised handwashing, hygiene, and safety practices.
Confidential handling of family and child information.
Materials & Supplies
Learning resources: age-appropriate books, toys, sensory materials, and manipulatives.
Arts & crafts supplies included.
Potty training equipment provided as needed.
Bedding and rest materials provided for nap time.
Scheduling & Enrollment Perks
Full-time and part-time enrollment options.
Drop-in/casual care available when space allows (first-come, first-served).
Priority enrollment for full-time families.
Tuition guarantees weekly spot
Deposit applied to final week with 14-day written notice of withdrawal.
Parent Communication & Support
Regular updates on child’s development and activities.
Open communication regarding misbehavior, milestones, or concerns.
Cost of Tuition
$6/ per hour per child
A deposit equal to the child’s average projected weekly hours is due at enrollment. Deposits can be credited toward the final week of care if notice is given before ending services.
Casual Drop-Off
Unenrolled Children
(When space is available)
Rate: $9.00 per hour (2-hour minimum; $60 daily maximum)
Notes: First-come, first-served. Enrolled Full and Part-Time children always have priority. All required forms must be completed prior to attendance.
What is not included with tuition?
Diapers & Wipes: Please provide enough for your child’s daily needs.
Formula or Special Dietary Items
Personal Care Items: Toothbrushes, lotions, or other personal hygiene items.
Special Clothing or Gear: Swimwear, snow gear, or other items required for specific activities (unless otherwise communicated).
Optional Extra Hours: Care beyond your scheduled hours, unless pre-arranged, may incur additional fees.
Late Pickup Fees: Any pickup after scheduled hours may result in a $20 late fee per occurrence.
Field Trips / Special Events: Off-site excursions or special enrichment programs not included in regular tuition may require separate payment.
Payment Schedules and Late Fees
Payment schedules—weekly, bi-monthly, or monthly—will be selected and agreed upon at the time of enrollment. Payments are due on the agreed-upon date. Late payments may result in a late fee. The amount and application of late fees are determined by the provider and may vary depending on the circumstances.
Timely payment is required for continued enrollment. If late payments occur repeatedly or become a pattern, the provider reserves the right to terminate the childcare contract at any time. Families will be given a written warning and then a notice of termination, and the child’s last day of care will be specified in that notice.