Starting Young
Visiting the children of the Unicorn group can bring a smile to anyone’s face as you observe the children exploring so many things for the first time. Caring for children, especially babies, is joyous, busy, and sometimes incredibly demanding, but the teachers at the CEC always make it look easy! This is because of their vast experience, coupled with deep appreciation and respect for this amazing time in the lives of young children and their families.
The teachers take the children’s lead when it comes to the rhythm of the group. At this age, each day is filled with firsts as the children gain experience and then mastery of grasping, transferring objects from hand to hand, rolling over, scooting, and so much more as they explore their environment. Following children’s cues for what they want or are interested in, the teacher’s role is to understand each child so well that they can intuit their physical and vocal messaging, as well as facial expressions.
“Flexibility is key with this age group of children,” said Lead Teacher Robin, “We have to be able to change at a moment’s notice based on what the children need.”
Exploration, discovery, and experience of how the world works are significant aspects of the development for the children in an infant group and thus forms what some would call “curriculum.” Knowing the developmental needs of children at this age, the teachers are very intentional about supporting and encouraging all aspects of their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. For example, children’s large and fine motor skills are rapidly blossoming. Just weeks ago, only a limited portion of the room was being utilized for the children as they had their first experiences rolling over and creeping. Fast forward to this week and a room set up that includes many more things to explore that are a distance from the “home base” in the center of the room. These “destinations” delight the children who are now crawling, sitting, and pulling up to standing. They are motivated to challenge themselves to motor their way to the new areas. This can be strenuous work for a baby, but it is precisely what they crave and supports all domains of their development. It is heartwarming to celebrate with each child as they work with perseverance to master new skills, have confidence in themselves to take risks and show their innate desire to explore and learn.
For teachers in an infant group, teamwork is critical and not just between co-workers. Developing close relationships with parents enables teachers to understand each child more fully and the parents’ needs, interests, and questions. Teachers in the infant groups communicate with parents to provide updates on their child’s day and strive to build trust and lasting relationships with them as their children continue their journey through the CEC. As children grow and transition to new groups each year, teachers make sure to share information so the new teachers can make the children and parents comfortable.
