Family Handbook Templates for Childcare Programs and Preschools

Four free family handbook templates! All are editable Word .docx files  

A preschool parent handbook is a comprehensive document that outlines a childcare program’s policies, procedures, and expectations for families. It serves as a contract between the provider and parents, covering essential details like enrollment, tuition, health protocols, and daily schedules to ensure a smooth partnership.

What should be included in a preschool parent handbook?

A well-structured handbook ensures clarity for families and staff. Key sections include:

• Welcome and philosophy: Mission statement and educational approach (e.g., Montessori, play-based).
• Operational details: Hours of operation, holiday closures, and drop-off/pick-up procedures.
• Health and safety: Sick policies, medication administration, and emergency protocols.
• Tuition and fees: Payment schedules, late fee policies, and subsidy acceptance.
• Daily life: Sample schedules, meals/snacks provided, and supplies parents need to bring.
• Behavior guidance: Discipline policies and conflict resolution steps.

Free family handbook templates

Creating a handbook from scratch can be time-consuming. We offer four free, editable templates to help you get started. These Word (.docx) files cover various program types, including NAEYC-accredited, faith-based, and Montessori models.

Download these templates to:

• Establish clear communication with families immediately.
• Customize policies to fit your specific program needs.
• Review examples of effective procedures.

Why a family handbook is essential

A family handbook is more than just a rulebook; it is a foundational tool for building trust and transparency. Consider these key benefits:

• Clarifies expectations: By clearly defining policies on attendance, payments, and communication, you reduce misunderstandings. When families know exactly what is expected of them, administrative friction decreases.
• Supports staff: Teachers and administrators can refer to the handbook when addressing questions or concerns. This ensures consistency across your team—everyone provides the same answers regarding policies like sick days or late pickups.
• Enhances professionalism: A polished, thorough handbook demonstrates that your program is organized and takes the care of children seriously. It reassures new families that you have established systems for safety and operations.

After downloading the family handbook templates, check out other early education resources that improve family engagement below.

• Family-Teacher Conference Checklist
• Welcome Letter for New Families
• Family Engagement Guide for Childcare Programs
• New Family Orientation Checklist for Childcare Centers and Preschools
• 120 Essential Survey Questions for Family Feedback

Frequently asked questions

Q: How often should I update my preschool parent handbook?
A: You should review and update your handbook annually. It is best to release the updated version before the start of a new school year or enrollment period to ensure families agree to the most current policies.

Q: Do parents need to sign the handbook?
A: Yes, it is standard practice to include an acknowledgement form at the back of the handbook. Parents should sign and date this form to confirm they have read, understood, and agreed to the policies outlined.

Q: Can I use a digital version of the handbook?
A: Absolutely. Digital handbooks are easy to distribute and update. Many providers use childcare management software to host the handbook, allowing families to access it anytime via their mobile devices.