Infant/Toddler Programming
Infants, toddlers, and two-year-olds learn through their senses, physically moving around, and social interaction. Opportunities for language development, social interaction, small and large muscle development, and sensory play are offered daily.
Communication is an important part of the infant's day. Frequent eye contact, one-on-one interaction, transitioning statements, and imitating infant sounds all help to enhance beginning verbalization skills. Opportunities for social interaction with other infants and caring adults are offered throughout the day. The position of young infants is changed frequently in order for the child to explore new environments. Developmental-appropriate toys such as rattles, busy boxes, and balls are provided to facilitate small and large muscle development. In addition, infants are taken outside when the weather permits. Paint, crayons, playdough, and other sensory materials are also offered daily.
Toddlers and two-year-olds have smooth and flexible schedules that are dictated more by children's needs than by adults. Adults recognize that routine tasks of living like eating, toileting, and dressing are important opportunities to help children learn about their world and to regulate their own behavior. Daily opportunities for exploratory play outdoors are provided. Children are given appropriate art media, such as large crayons, watercolor markers, and large paper. Sturdy picture books are provided. Routines are planned as learning experiences to help children become skilled and independent.