Infants' and Toddlers' Programme

This area is designed for a maximum of 9 children aged three months up to their second birthday. We have three permanent teachers and one part time teachers' aid with ratios of one teacher to three children.

Daily programme

Every day is different in our Infant and Toddler area, and our programme remains flexible to cater for individual requirements.  We endeavour to keep children’s routines as close as possible to what would happen at home, although we generally sit down as a group for a shared morning tea about 9.45am. Lunch is around 11.30am and afternoon tea is most often as children awake or when required.

Within our programme we follow aspects of the "Pikler" philosophy. 
We view infants and toddlers as:

• Capable learners and natural explorers who need time, space and freedom in a physically and emotionally safe environment, to progress and develop at their own pace – when they are ready.
  

Infants' & Toddlers' environment

The indoor and outdoor areas are designed to reflect family values, whilst supporting positive relationships between younger and older children.  We are proud to offer a clean, home like environment and believe in providing natural resources that don't limit the imagination to support children's innate desire to explore and investigate.

Visits

When infants initially start they will complete a free 3 visit transition before commencing their
permanent bookings. This process is beneficial for yourself, your child and the teachers.

1st Visit - is ½ hour one to one with our Head Teacher. She will introduce you and your child to our programme, the surroundings, discuss routines and explain our enrolment pack.

2nd Visit - is 1 hour. ½ hour to settle your child and then leave the centre for the 2nd ½ hour.

3rd Visit - normal 2hr session.

This process will be different for each child and their family and we will all work together to make this transition.

Transitioning to the Over Twos'

When children are transitioning from the under two area to the over two area, we will gradually introduce them to the over twos' programme at least two weeks prior to their 2nd birthday. Separate information will be provided to parents during transition, which will include information about the daily programme in our preschoolers' area and new enrolment details to be completed.