If you are the parent of a baby or toddler, you know that your day is full of choices. You choose how to dress your child, what to feed them, and who they spend time with.
While some choices may come easily, some can be overwhelming. One of the most significant choices you’ll make as a parent is where to send your child for care.
There are many infant and toddler care programs in Pasco County. Finding the right one may seem like a complicated process. However, we have put together this guide to help you find the best care for your child’s earliest years.
Reach out to the caring team at New Horizons Learning Center now to explore our programs. You may also ask questions or schedule a tour of our incredible center.
Things to Look For in an Infant and Toddler Care Program
Babies are born to explore the world. Even the youngest little ones constantly gather information and make connections every day. Research shows that a child’s brain develops more in the first five years than at any other time in their lives. Finding early education child care programs that offer a nurturing, enriching environment is important.
If you are looking at infant and toddler daycares in Pasco County Florida, here are some things to watch for.
A reliable schedule
Infants and toddlers thrive when caregivers can meet their needs. A daily schedule provides a structure to help caregivers meet all the children’s needs. A schedule also allows children to fall into a predictable routine. This can help children adjust to being at a center and feel more comfortable.
When you visit an infant daycare in Pasco County Florida, ask to see a daily schedule. Ensure the schedule allows regular feeding, diaper changes, play, rest, and outdoor time.
Sensory experiences
Infants and toddlers may not be able to communicate with words yet, but they can make connections and learn about their environment. Babies and toddlers use their senses to explore and learn. A Pasco County FL preschool must provide lots of hands-on learning.
Some things to look for when visiting the individual center include:
- Sturdy books
- Simple musical instruments
- Sensory bins with developmentally appropriate materials
- Toys that encourage exploration and open-ended play
Ask the staff how they engage infant and toddler’s senses through play and other activities.
Outdoor play
Children enjoy spending time outdoors. However, outdoor play is more than simply fun–it’s also educational.
Nature provides infants and toddlers with plenty of sensory experiences. They experience fresh air, natural smells, a wide range of textures, and more. A well-designed outdoor play area encourages kids to climb, run, and move.
When visiting a Pasco County Fl pre-K or infant program, ask how teachers use the outdoor play space. Even young infants benefit from spending time outdoors, so make sure outdoor time is part of the daily routine.
Fine and gross motor development
Young children need to move their bodies in many different ways to develop large and small motor skills. They must use their bodies to develop balance, coordination, and fine motor skills.
An infant and toddler care program should provide space and encouragement for babies and toddlers to move. Look for large, open spaces and child-sized equipment that encourage safe exploration and play. Watch for activities and toys that encourage fine motor skills, such as blocks, shape sorters, and sturdy books.
Signs of a High-Quality Infant and Toddler Program in Pasco County
Safety and enrichment are essential aspects of a good infant and toddler care program. You must find a center where you trust your child will be safe and cared for.
Here are some signs of a high-quality early childhood program.
1. The center is nationally accredited
Early childhood education centers pursue national accreditation to prove they offer safe, enriching care. Early childhood accreditation proves that an infant and toddler program follows all state and federal guidelines. It means that a learning center meets all standards for safe care and is dedicated to continuous improvement.
2. Dedicated educators
Early childhood educators are essential to great infant and toddler care programs. All teachers and caregivers should have education and training to provide safe, nurturing care. Caregivers should be patient, caring, and interested in forming great relationships with families.
3. Great reviews
You can find information about care programs on individual center pages, but honest reviews can give you even more information. Search online for reviews from parents who have children in the center. Talk to friends or family, or ask in local parenting groups. Ask about people’s experiences.
Another consideration when choosing infant and toddler care is the center’s schedule and location. Does the center offer full-time child care that meets your needs? Will bringing your child to and from the center be easy each day?
Visit childcare centers and ask questions. You must feel comfortable with your choice so you can trust your child will be safe and nurtured while away from home.
Find Infant and Toddler Care in Pasco County
Contact the New Horizons Learning Center team to learn about our infant and toddler care programs. We look forward to meeting you and your child soon!
