The program at Clayton Child Center is designed to create a safe, wholesome environment where children enjoy living and learning. Each infant and toddler is unique and accepted as such in order to foster individuality. Through daily interactions, even in the midst of a group care routine, there is always the opportunity for each infant and toddler to be treated as an individual in a manner that best meets his/her needs. As we adapt our schedules to meet the individual infants’ and toddlers’ needs we build a sense of trust and security.
Each infant’s feeding schedule is based on his/her individual needs. Record keeping will show patterns which will eventually work into important routines. Efforts will be made to work with parents on routines.
The classroom environment allows for each infant to sleep when he/she needs the rest. As napping falls into a predictable routine, it becomes important to follow a schedule every day, teaching the infant that his/her needs are both understood and being met.
Teachers are always available to add comfort to ease relaxation.
Each infant and toddler is a unique learner. Time is set aside where meaningful interactions take place on a one-to-one exchange. Each child is offered developmentally appropriate experiences in a rich learning environment that recognizes social, physical and intellectual development. Depending on a child’s stage of development, activities are selected to meet personal and individual goals. Timing and duration of activities will vary. Attention is given to each child in a different way and on a one-to-one basis. Teachers strive to understand each child’s personality, likes and dislikes.
Although the organization of group care can be challenging, each infant’s schedule is based on his/her own needs. We are aware that schedules and needs/wants may change. Our schedule will be flexible to meet the needs of the individual child and build that sense of security. As the days become more predictable, routine becomes established and trust is built.