It’s Nice to Meet You!

It can be challenging to meet someone new in any setting, and can be especially hard for young children entering a new environment. However, we pride ourselves at the CEC for making this process as easy, secure and enjoyable as possible for children. The children of the Panda group are having a great time getting to meet and interact with their teachers and peers. For many children, this may be the first time they have ever been in an early care environment or even the first time interacting with other children. There is something new to experience every day! 

"They all love to explore the environment, and we always try to be available to the children, whether it be engaging with them or observing them to help build trust together," said Lead Teacher Cristina. 

Teachers make sure that the children know that they are always available when needed: playing with them on the floor, providing their lap to sit on, or supporting their interactions with the other children. At this age, children are exploring and learning about the world in so many ways, utilizing their senses, curiosity, and communication skills. With the loving guidance of the teachers, they are learning how to interact with each other, with quiet reminders and modeling about using “gentle touches” and teachers narrating the actions of other children, such as “It looks like Jose is very interested in the book you are looking at.”

They are also learning how to interact with the teachers in the most interesting ways, as Cristina explains:  Whenever they accomplish something, they look to us, almost as to say, 'Did you see what I did?' and we give them a reassuring smile. They are so proud of themselves, and it's wonderful to observe these emotions and their sense of accomplishment."  

The teachers observe and celebrate every success the children experience, whether figuring out how to connect Bristle Blocks or opening containers of toys. They are present in every moment with the children and are wholly dedicated to building the precious trust that is necessary in order for them to gain confidence and feel loved. Our teachers have such an incredibly important role when it comes to caring for the children, Including partnering with you in creating the foundations that will support children in all aspects of their lives. Infusing kindness, curiosity, and joy into days filled with exploration and learning creates an environment that truly helps children feel trusting of the teachers, but also themselves.