INFANT & TODDLER PROVISIONS FOR CHILDREN UNDER THREE YEARS OLD

ENVIRONMENT

Infants and toddlers are provided with materials and equipment appropriate to their developmental level including soft areas; textural areas; cuddly toys; objects they can safely explore by mouthing, rolling, squeezing, pulling and pushing; sturdy picture books; unbreakabe mirrors; and sturdy furniture. Children are free to explore the environment, to roll, reach, creep, crawl, walk, jump, climb, push and pull with attention and supervision.

SLEEPING

Each child has their own crip or cot space for sleeping or resting. Children are not forced to sleep or rest for long periods of time. Quiet activities are offered for children who do not nap.

FEEDING

Parents can provide formula for their infants. There is a $5.00 per day fee if the Center provides formula. Parents provide and label bottles and containers with child's full name and provide a written statement giving formula and feeding instructions. Young infants are held when fed and older babies are  seated in a low feeding chair. Toddlers sit together at a table.

DIAPER CHANGING/HYGIENE

Infants and toddlers are kept clean and comfortable at all times. Diapers are checked at least once an hour and changed when wet or soiled. A chart near the changing area is used to keep track of the times of diaper changes for each child and any other relevant information. When a toddler starts to show interest in using the toilet, Caregivers assist children in our toddler-size bathrooms.

The procedure for each diaper change is as follows:

• Caregiver puts on a fresh pair of gloves
• Disposable diapers are used unless other arrangements have been made
• Caregiver talks to baby, makes eye contact during diaper change
• Soiled diaper is disposed of in plastic lined, tightly covered trash can out of children's reach
• Changing table is sprayed with bleach solution and wiped
• Caregiver washes hands

Toys and play areas are cleaned and sanitized regularly.