Infant Program (6M -17M)
8:30 AM-3:30 PM
Infants thrive within individualized care routines that parents, their first teacher, define for them. The environment, the third teacher, in which educators, a child's second teacher, provide caregiving and facilitate growth, is paramount to an infant's development.
Our infant space welcomes infants and adults, with soft, natural furnishings resembling a home-like atmosphere. All social and emotional development is dependent on infants feeling safe and secure. While in care, it is necessary for infants to develop a significant relationship with at least one primary educator. Hence, infants are assigned a primary educator as a partner and guide while in attendance.
Parents will complete a form that indicates their infants schedule, to include, feeding, diapering, and sleep. Educator and child-guided play and activities will allow for fine and large motor development and support social and emotional regulation. Ratio 4:1
RIE Principles of Respect include:
Our infant toddler program (for ages 3- 18 months) is based on the principles of Magda Gerber’s RIE approach of respectful caregiving and education (Resources for Infant Educarers).
Basic trust in the child to be an initiator, an explorer and a self-learner.
An environment for the child that is physically safe, cognitively challenging and emotionally nurturing.
Time for uninterrupted play.
Freedom to explore and interact with other infants.
Involvement of the child in all care activities to allow the child to become an active participant rather than a passive recipient.
Sensitive observation of the child in order to understand his or her needs.
Consistency, clearly defined limits and expectations to develop discipline.
Rhythm of the Day - Infants
Infants | 8:30- 3:30 p.m.
Warm Welcome and Personal Care
Exploration and Facilitated Possibilities
Outdoor Exploration/Rest
Personal Care/ Snack
Guided Storytelling
Warm Farewell
