CHILD CARE AND CURRICULUM FOR BABIES

The curriculum creates a developmentally appropriate learning environment that encourages infants in our care to become confident, successful, lifelong learners.

LANGUAGE

From their very first cries, coos, and babbles, infants learn to use language to connect with their world, to develop relationships, and to get what they need. Our infant teachers encourage these skills through everyday experiences such as:

• Singing lullabies and songs
• Naming objects
• Engaging in daily conversations
• Exploring picture books
• Playing rhyming and word games

MATH

Although it might seem surprising, mathematical concepts are indeed a part of an infant's early learning - from staring at the geometric shapes of a toy to exploring the space around her.  Our math curriculum provides appropriate materials and activities that promote the development of early mathematical understanding. Some of the things your baby will have the opportunity to learn include:

• Recognizing words that describe positions such as "up" or "under"
• Becoming aware of space and variations in it
• Understanding quantity concepts like "more"
• Repeating an action to make the same thing happen again
• Making choices from a group of items

SCIENCE

Science to infants is not found in elaborate experiments, but rather in real world and everyday moments as they move through their environment, manipulate objects, and explore with all their senses. We help curious babies begin the process of discovery by:

• Providing a sensory-rich environment that encourages exploration in a safe way
• Experimenting with volume by filling and dumping buckets filled with toys
• Using safe toys and materials with varied textures, smells, tastes and sounds
• Playing peek-a-boo
• Exploring nature in safe, outdoor environments

ART

Exposure to the arts ensures babies are immersed in rich and diverse experiences that capture their interest, nurture their development, and excite their senses. At Dinky’s Child Care we guide children to explore their creative side and to appreciate the beauty of the art world by:

• Painting with large brushes, sponges, and fingers
• Using rattles and musical instruments
• Dancing and moving to varied beats, music, and tempos
• Playing with puppets and dolls
• Reading vivid picture books

THE WORLD AND ME

Although they are our youngest citizens, infants can begin to understand the basic concepts that provide a foundation for becoming a happy, contributing member of society. We encourage a baby's exploration of the world around us by:

• Looking at family albums made by parents and the teacher
• Setting up safe spaces that encourage play near peers
• Showing affection and compassion every day
• Engaging in imaginative, caring play such as rocking a doll

HEALTH AWARENESS

Our Health Awareness curriculum focuses on health and safety, and fosters a positive attitude about wellness. Babies are exposed to healthy habits and routines to help them build a foundation for lifelong health. Your baby will have the opportunity to:

• Enjoy physical activities both indoors and outdoors, in very safe environments designed specifically for infants
• Identify and communicate his/her hunger needs
• Become receptive to a variety of flavors and textures when he/she is ready for solid foods
• Participate in routine health care when he/she is diapered and assisted with hand washing