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Content Overview

In the State of Wisconsin, the Department of Children and Families has established a form, identified as DCF-F (CFS-0058), specifically designed for use by child care centers during the organization and execution of field trips or other activities outside the center. This form serves a dual purpose; it not only notifies parents or guardians about upcoming events, including the specific date, time, destination, and method of transportation, but it also acts as a means to secure parental authorization for a child's participation in these events. Its completion is voluntary but stands as a compliance measure with several regulations outlined in the DCF standards, underscoring the balance between regulatory adherence and the facilitation of enriching childcare experiences. The form is structured to collect essential information, such as the child's name, the scheduled activities, and the consent signature from a parent or guardian. By doing so, it underscores a commitment to safety, transparency, and parental involvement, foundational elements of quality childcare practices. Additionally, the form respects privacy concerns by adhering to Wisconsin's privacy laws, ensuring that personal information provided is guarded and possibly used for secondary, lawful purposes. Equipped with this form, child care providers can organize off-site activities with a structured approach to obtaining necessary permissions, thus enhancing the overall educational and developmental experience for children under their care.

Preview - Wisconsin Dcf F Form

DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

STATE OF WISCONSIN

Division of Early Care and Education

 

DCF-F (CFS-0058) (R. 02/2009)

 

Field Trip Or Other Activity Notification / Permission –

Child Care Centers

Use of form: Use of this form is voluntary; however, completion of this form meets the requirements of DCF 250.04(6)(a)2., DCF 251.04(4)(a)4. and 251.04(6)(a)4., and DCF 252.41(4)(a)4. Personal information you provide may be used for secondary purposes [Privacy Law, s.15.04(1)(m), Wisconsin Statutes]. This form may be used both to notify parents of the specific date, time and destination of field trips which require the use of a vehicle and to obtain parental authorization for a child to participate in and be transported to and from a field trip. Note: The Child Care Enrollment form also contains a section for obtaining authorization from a parent to participate in field trips if the center chooses to use that form.

Instructions: Complete the form and submit to the parents / guardians for their signature prior to the date of the upcoming field trip.

Name – Center or Day Camp

Name – Child

Date(s) – Field Trip or Other Activity

Departure Time

Estimated Return Time

Destination

Name – Center or Day Camp

Type of transportation:

Center vehicle

Parent / volunteer vehicle

Contracted vehicle Public transportation

I authorize the facility listed above to take my child on a field trip or other activity on the date(s) indicated.

SIGNATURE – Parent or Guardian

Date Signed

 

 

DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

STATE OF WISCONSIN

Division of Early Care and Education

 

DCF-F (CFS-0058) (R. 02/2009)

 

Field Trip Or Other Activity Notification / Permission –

Child Care Centers

Use of form: Use of this form is voluntary; however, completion of this form meets the requirements of DCF 250.04(6)(a)2., DCF 251.04(4)(a)4. and 251.04(6)(a)4., and DCF 252.41(4)(a)4. Personal information you provide may be used for secondary purposes [Privacy Law, s.15.04(1)(m), Wisconsin Statutes]. This form may be used both to notify parents of the specific date, time and destination of field trips which require the use of a vehicle and to obtain parental authorization for a child to participate in and be transported to and from a field trip. Note: The Child Care Enrollment form also contains a section for obtaining authorization from a parent to participate in field trips if the center chooses to use that form.

Instructions: Complete the form and submit to the parents / guardians for their signature prior to the date of the upcoming field trip.

Name – Center or Day Camp

Name – Child

Date(s) – Field Trip or Other Activity

Departure Time

Estimated Return Time

Destination

Name – Center or Day Camp

Type of transportation:

Contracted vehicle

Center vehicle

Parent / volunteer vehicle Public transportation

I authorize the facility listed above to take my child on a field trip or other activity on the date(s) indicated.

SIGNATURE – Parent or Guardian

Date Signed

 

 

Form Specifications

Fact Name Detail
Form Title Field Trip Or Other Activity Notification / Permission – Child Care Centers
Governing Law DCF 250.04(6)(a)2., DCF 251.04(4)(a)4. and 251.04(6)(a)4., and DCF 252.41(4)(a)4. under Wisconsin Statutes
Privacy Consideration Personal information may be used for secondary purposes as per Privacy Law, s.15.04(1)(m), Wisconsin Statutes.
Form Use Voluntary for notification and obtaining parental permission for field trips requiring vehicle transportation.
Alternative Authorization Centers may also use the Child Care Enrollment form for field trip authorization.
Signature Requirement Parent or guardian signature required for authorization before the date of the field trip.

Detailed Instructions for Using Wisconsin Dcf F

Getting ready for a field trip or special activity at a child care center involves not just planning and enthusiasm, but also ensuring all paperwork is in order. The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) offers the DCF-F (CFS-0058) form as a straightforward way to communicate important details about an upcoming event and to secure necessary permissions from parents or guardians. This form is designed to inform about the what, when, and how of the trip. Filling it out correctly is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all involved, aligning with state regulations and making sure everyone's on the same page.

  1. Locate the "Name – Center or Day Camp" space at the top of the form and write in the name of your child care center or day camp.
  2. Enter the "Name – Child" to identify whom the form is concerning.
  3. Fill in the "Date(s) – Field Trip or Other Activity" with the specific day or range of days the event will take place.
  4. Specify the "Departure Time" and "Estimated Return Time" to inform parents or guardians when their child will be leaving and expected to return.
  5. In the "Destination" field, write down the location or locations that will be visited during the trip.
  6. Choose the type of "Transportation" that will be used from the options provided: Center vehicle, Parent/volunteer vehicle, Contracted vehicle, or Public transportation. Mark the applicable mode.
  7. There's a section for the parent or guardian to fill out. Ask them to read the form, then sign and date in the designated "SIGNATURE – Parent or Guardian" area to authorize their child's participation.

After the form is filled out and signed, it's crucial to gather them and keep a record before the day of the trip. The information provided ensures children's safety and compliance with state guidelines, making it easier for the organizers and reassuring for the parents. From the moment the buses roll out until the children's safe return, this permission slip acts as a pact of trust and responsibility between the child care providers and the families they serve.

Listed Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of the Wisconsin DCF-F form?

The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) uses the DCF-F form for child care centers to notify parents about upcoming field trips or activities that require transportation and to obtain parental permission for their child's participation in these events. The form ensures that all necessary information about the trip is communicated to parents and guardians and that their consent is formally documented.

Is completing the DCF-F form mandatory for child care centers?

No, the use of the DCF-F form is voluntary for child care centers. However, completing this form satisfies the requirements set by DCF 250.04(6)(a)2., DCF 251.04(4)(a)4., DCF 251.04(6)(a)4., and DCF 252.41(4)(a)4. This means that by using the form, centers comply with state regulations regarding parental notification and authorization for field trips that involve transportation.

Can personal information provided on the DCF-F form be used for other purposes?

Yes, the personal information collected on the DCF-F form may be used for secondary purposes, as permitted by the Privacy Law, s.15.04(1)(m), Wisconsin Statutes. This provision implies that information might be used beyond the primary purpose of notifying and obtaining consent for field trips, in accordance with applicable laws.

Are there alternative ways to obtain parental authorization for field trips?

Yes, child care centers have the option to use the Child Care Enrollment form to obtain parental authorization for field trips. This form contains a specific section designed for that purpose, offering an alternative to the DCF-F form.

What information must be provided on the DCF-F form?

The form requires detailed information about the planned field trip or activity, including the name of the child care center or day camp, the child's name, the date(s) of the activity, departure time, estimated return time, destination name, and the type of transportation used. This information ensures that parents are well-informed about the specifics of the field trip.

Is a parent’s signature required on the DCF-F form?

Yes, a parent or guardian must sign the DCF-F form to provide their official authorization for their child to participate in the field trip or activity. The signature also indicates their consent for the child to be transported to and from the location as per the details provided on the form.

When should the DCF-F form be submitted to parents?

Child care centers are instructed to complete the DCF-F form and submit it to the parents or guardians for their signature prior to the date of the upcoming field trip. This ensures that parents have sufficient time to review the details and provide their consent before the event takes place.

What types of transportation can be used for field trips, as indicated on the DCF-F form?

The form lists various types of transportation that can be utilized for field trips, including center vehicles, parent or volunteer vehicles, contracted vehicles, and public transportation. This provides flexibility in arranging travel to suit the needs of the specific event and ensures the safety and convenience of the children involved.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) Form F, designed for field trip or other activity notifications and permissions, appears straightforward, but common errors can complicate the process. By paying attention to detail and avoiding these mistakes, one ensures their child's participation is authorized accurately and efficiently.

Common Mistakes:

  1. Failing to provide complete details about the child care center or day camp. This includes not only the name but also any identification numbers or addresses that might be required for clear identification.
  2. Omitting the child's name or spelling it incorrectly. This information is crucial for matching the permission with the right child, especially in facilities that care for many children.
  3. Incorrect or vague date(s) for the field trip or activity. Specificity is needed to avoid confusion or legal issues regarding when the consent is applicable.
  4. Not being clear about the departure and return times. Precise times inform parents about how long their children will be away, allowing them to plan accordingly.
  5. Skipping the details of the destination. Knowing the exact location is important for safety concerns and logistical arrangements.
  6. Inconsistencies or lack of clarity about the type of transportation being used. Whether it’s a center vehicle, parent/volunteer vehicle, contracted vehicle, or public transportation, clear information prevents misunderstandings.
  7. Failing to properly obtain and record the parent or guardian's signature and date signed. This signature is a legal requirement for the child's participation.
  8. Not offering or properly explaining alternative options if the parents decide not to allow their child to participate in the field trip.
  9. Overlooking the need to distribute the form well in advance. Late notices do not give guardians sufficient time to make informed decisions.
  10. Not keeping a copy of the signed form for the center's records. Retaining a copy is essential for verifying consent and for record-keeping mandates.

To avoid these errors, careful attention to detail and a thorough review process are advisable. Ensuring the accuracy of each field in the form not only complies with legal requirements but also builds trust with the parents or guardians. Moreover, it underscores the facility’s commitment to the safety and well-being of the children in their care.

In summary, filling out the DCF-F form correctly is crucial for the smooth operation of child care activities and for maintaining clear communication between child care facilities and families. By avoiding common mistakes, facilities can ensure that every child's participation in activities is properly documented and authorized, fostering a safer and more organized environment.

Documents used along the form

When managing or operating child care centers in Wisconsin, various documents and forms complement the Wisconsin DCF F form, assisting in ensuring regulatory compliance, enhancing communication with parents, and fostering a safe, enriching environment for children. These documents span consent forms, emergency contact sheets, and health information records, each playing a pivotal role in the administrative mosaic of child care provisioning. Discussing these auxiliary documents broadens the understanding of the managerial and legal frameworks underpinning child care services.

  • Child Care Enrollment Form: This form collects essential information about each child, including their contact information, birth date, and medical details. It often includes a section for field trip authorization, offering an alternative to the separate DCF F form for such purposes.
  • Health History and Emergency Care Plan Form: Ensures that child care providers are informed of any health conditions, allergies, or special care requirements for children, facilitating tailored care and rapid response in emergencies.
  • Medication Administration Consent Form: Used to obtain parent or guardian consent for the administration of medication to a child during childcare hours, detailing medication type, dosage, and administration times.
  • Incident Report Form: Documents any injuries, behavioral incidents, or noteworthy events that occur with a child, ensuring accurate record-keeping for parents and care providers.
  • Child Pickup Authorization Form: Lists individuals authorized by the parent or guardian to pick up their child from the child care center, enhancing security and child safety.
  • Daily Attendance Record: Tracks the arrival and departure times of children, contributing to operational oversight and ensuring children are accounted for at all times.
  • Meal and Snack Record Form: Keeps track of the meals and snacks provided to the children, aiding in nutritional planning and allergy management.
  • Immunization Record Form: Records a child's immunization history, ensuring compliance with health regulations for child care enrollment.
  • Emergency Evacuation Plan: Outlines the procedures for evacuating the child care center in case of an emergency, including fire, natural disasters, or other threats, ensuring the safety of children and staff.
  • Parent/Guardian Handbook Acknowledgment Form: Confirms that the parent or guardian has received, read, and agrees to the policies and procedures outlined in the child care center’s handbook, establishing clear expectations and guidelines.

Together, these documents form a comprehensive framework for the administration of child care services, ensuring safety, compliance, and quality care for children. The meticulous completion and management of these forms reflect the commitment of child care providers to excellence in care and communication, ultimately enhancing the well-being and development of the children entrusted to their care.

Similar forms

The Wisconsin DCF-F form, which serves to notify and obtain consent from parents or guardians for children's participation in field trips or other activities organized by child care centers, bears similarity to a variety of other important documents within the realm of educational and childcare operations. These documents, while serving different specific functions, uphold the common theme of ensuring child safety and legal compliance through informed parental consent and notification.

One analogous document is the Child Care Enrollment form, which, as mentioned, might include sections for field trip authorization. This form is fundamental in the enrollment process, gathering vital health and emergency contact information, alongside consents for various activities, including field trips. Like the DCF-F form, it underscores the necessity of parental or guardian permission for child participation in activities beyond the usual care setting, ensuring both parties are informed and agreeable to the terms of involvement.

Another related document is the Medical Authorization Form for minors. This form grants childcare providers the authority to seek medical treatment for a child in case of emergency, should parents or guardians be unreachable. It shares the DCF-F form's underpinning principle of preparedness and parental consent for scenarios that fall outside routine childcare activities, focusing on health and safety.

The Liability Waiver Form for child participation in activities also shares similarities. Such waivers are often required for involvement in certain physical or potentially risk-entailing activities, detailing and acknowledging the risks involved. Like the DCF-F form, it serves to transparently communicate specific activities' dynamics to parents, obtaining their consent while highlighting their child's well-being as a priority.

The Permission Slip for School Field Trips is a document directly parallel in purpose and function to the Wisconsin DCF-F form. It specifically caters to school-organized excursions, requiring detailed information about the trip and consent from parents or guardians for their child's participation. Both forms act as preventive measures, ensuring children's safety and parental awareness in off-premises activities.

Emergency Contact Forms, commonly used in schools and childcare centers, while not specific to off-site activities, are crucial for ensuring child safety and effective response in case of emergencies. These forms, similar to sections of the DCF-F, include vital information about who to contact and what steps to take, should an unusual situation arise, underlining the recurring theme of preparedness and informed consent.

Lastly, the Photo Release Form, frequently used in educational and childcare settings, seeks permission from parents or guardians for their child's photograph to be taken and potentially used for various purposes. Although focusing on a different aspect of child involvement, it aligns with the DCF-F form in its essence of requiring parental consent for specific activities, upholding respect for personal rights and privacy.

In summary, while each document serves its unique purpose, from emergency medical authorization to liability waivers, they all navigate the crucial domain of legal compliance and ensuring children's safety through informed consent and transparency. The Wisconsin DCF-F form is a part of this family of documents, playing a pivotal role in fostering a safe and legally sound environment for child participation in care center-organized activities.

Dos and Don'ts

In preparing the Wisconsin DCF-F Field Trip or Other Activity Notification/Permission form, which child care centers use to inform parents about field trips and obtain necessary permissions, certain practices should be followed to ensure the process is completed accurately and respectfully. Here are some critical dos and don'ts to consider:

  • Do ensure all the information provided on the form is accurate and complete, including the destination, dates, and transportation details. Accuracy is crucial for the safety and security of the children.
  • Do clearly communicate the purpose of the field trip or activity to the parents, making sure to highlight the educational or recreational benefits it offers to their child.
  • Do offer clear instructions on how parents can return the signed form, whether it's in person, via email, or through another secure method. This ensures the child's participation is properly authorized.
  • Don't leave sections of the form blank, especially those requiring detailed information about the trip's logistics or the type of transportation being used. Incomplete forms may lead to misunderstandings or concerns from parents.
  • Don't forget to include a section for emergency contact information or special instructions from parents, such as allergies or medical conditions that the center needs to be aware of during the trip.
  • Don't disregard the privacy of the information shared. The personal and sensitive information provided should be handled with confidentiality and only used for the purposes mentioned in the form, complying with Wisconsin's privacy laws.

By following these guidelines, child care centers can streamline the process of organizing field trips or activities while ensuring the safety and well-being of the children in their care. Moreover, it cultivates a trusting relationship with parents by demonstrating thoroughness, transparency, and a commitment to the children's best interests.

Misconceptions

Many people have misconceptions about the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) Form F, which is essential for authorizing child participation in field trips through childcare centers. Let's address some of these misunderstandings:

  • It's mandatory to use this form: While it's true that using the DCF-F form complies with certain Wisconsin statutes, it's not the only way to obtain parental permission for field trips. Childcare centers may opt to use the Child Care Enrollment form's section designated for field trip authorization instead, suggesting that the use of the DCF-F form, although comprehensive, is voluntary.

  • The form covers all outings and transport types: Although the form is designed to obtain permission for field trips requiring any vehicle use, it specifically gathers details about the trip, including departure and return times, destination, and type of transportation. This emphasizes its purpose for trips where children are transported away from the daycare premises, rather than on-site activities or those within walking distance.

  • Parental authorization on this form is a one-time consent: Some might believe completing this form grants blanket permission for all future field trips. However, the DCF-F form is event-specific, requiring separate completion for each field trip to ensure parents are fully informed and agree to each specific outing their child participates in.

  • Personal information shared on the form is only for internal use: The form duly notes that personal information provided may be used for secondary purposes, as outlined under Wisconsin's Privacy Law. This clause reminds parents and guardians that data shared, while primarily for the field trip's organization and safety protocols, might also serve additional legally sanctioned purposes.

  • The form is only for child care centers: While directly intended for use by child care centers, the wording suggests flexibility in its application, possibly extending to day camps and other child-focused programs under the umbrella of early care and education. The form's structure supports use by any entity needing to secure parental permission for child transportation to an activity outside their regular location.

Understanding these aspects of the Wisconsin DCF-F form helps clarify its role and ensures that both child care providers and parents are fully informed about the processes involving children's participation in field trips.

Key takeaways

When preparing for a field trip or other activity outside of the childcare center, the Wisconsin DCF F form serves as both a notification to parents and guardians about the details and as a way to secure their permission for their child's participation. Understanding this form is crucial for both child care providers and parents to ensure the safety and compliance with regulations. Here are key takeaways about filling out and using this form:

  • The use of the Wisconsin DCF F form is voluntary for child care centers, but it fulfills specific state requirements. Completing this form meets the criteria set by DCF 250.04(6)(a)2., DCF 251.04(4)(a)4., DCF 251.04(6)(a)4., and DCF 252.41(4)(a)4., ensuring compliance with state regulations regarding child participation in field trips.
  • Before a field trip or similar activity that involves transporting children, it is necessary to obtain parental or guardian permission. This form collects comprehensive information about the trip, including the date, time, destination, and type of transportation, and requires a signature from a parent or guardian to authorize the child's participation.
  • Personal information provided in the DCF F form may be used for secondary purposes, as outlined under the Privacy Law section 15.04(1)(m) of the Wisconsin Statutes. It is important for parents and guardians to be aware of how information provided on the form can be used beyond its primary purpose of authorizing participation in activities.
  • The form should be completed and signed by parents or guardians before the date of the activity. This ensures that the child care center has obtained necessary permissions and can plan transportation and logistics accordingly. The form also includes a section for specifying the type of transportation used, such as center-owned vehicles, parent or volunteer vehicles, contracted vehicles, or public transportation, providing clear details on how children will be transported.

Understanding these key points ensures that child care providers and parents alike are informed about the procedures and requirements for children's participation in field trips, promoting a safer and more organized experience for everyone involved.

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