• We accept infants at least one year of age. We use the RIE approach by Magda Gerber in our Infant/Toddler program. Based upon respect, the RIE approach helps raise authentic infants/toddlers who are competent, confident, curious, attentive, exploring, cooperative, secure, peaceful, focused, self-initiating, resourceful, involved, inner-directed, aware and interested.
• Infant & Toddler needs are decidedly different from older children and change rapidly. Children become toddlers developmentally when they begin to walk. All children go through the same stages of growth, but at different rates.
• Infant and toddler activities include many sensory experiences. We work with infant and toddlers on language acquisition & self-help skills, along with fine and gross motor skills. There is a huge focus on cognitive & physical development of young children, especially since they are closely related. Creative expression through art is also a big part of our toddler’s day. Much time is spent on nurturing and bonding, activities that are vital to the healthy development of a very young child’s self-esteem and sense of security.
• Because we believe bonding is of the utmost importance in a young child’s first few years, we practice primary caregiving in our infant & toddler program. This means that each child will have an extra close relationship with one teacher, who will provide most of their daily care routines. In addition to bonding with caregivers, children’s relationships with their peers are also important. A toddler will be encouraged to make friends with his/her peers, and begin to try new skills like feeding him or herself and washing his or her hands. We provide special play areas, indoors and out, for infants and toddlers as they explore the surrounding world.
• The program offers:
  * A park-like setting with a covered patio and large mulberry trees for outside year-around activities
  * Daily observations shared with parents
  * Primary caregiving approach that supports bonding and attachment
  * A small group size so that modeling social behaviors for positive relationships with peers and caregivers are developed
  * Experienced caregivers who focus on the child, interacting in the process of the daily routine to allow each child to develop at their own pace