Childcare Resources

Things to do with toddlers (18 to 24 months) Lead Teacher Donna Scott

1. Communicate with your toddler about what you will do for the day - reading, dancing, and talking with your child builds trust!

A. Cognitive (learning, thinking, problem solving)

1. Can follow 1 step verbal commands without gestures for example, sits when you say “sit down”.

2. Scribbles on his own (crayons and paper).

3. Shows interest in a doll or stuff animal by pretending to feed.

B. Social /Emotional Development

1. Likes to play pretend, such as feeding a doll.

2. Likes to hand things to others as play.

3. Likes playing with others.

C. Physical Development

1. Pulls toys while walking.

2. Likes to eat with spoons.

3. Walks up stairs and run.

4. Playgrounds an excellent way to build gross motor skills.

2. Routine is very important for you and your child.

a. Child feels secure.

b. Make sure they are up at the same time everyday.

c. Eat at the same time everyday.

d. Nap is essential at the same time everyday.

Help with baby during digital learning (3 to 12 months) Lead Teacher Eileen Miller

Have you found it challenging to get digital school work finished while attending to the needs of a young child? Babies do require quite a bit of attention and hands on supervision, but there are some things that can be done to help your little one to begin to be more independent.

Here are a few tips that may help to keep your baby happy as you work:

1. Keep a regular routine in place for your child, being consistent with sleeping, eating, outings and playtimes. A baby will come to expect the timing of a predictable schedule which produces a greater sense of security, comfort and peace.

2. Check for any unmet physical needs. If the child requires a clean diaper, bottle, food or a nap; satisfy as needed. Use baby’s naptime to your advantage, getting as much work done as possible while he’s napping!

3. Change your child’s position to give him a new perspective. If he’s been in the exersaucer for half an hour, move him to the floor; if in a swing allow him to move around in a play yard or crib for a while. Moving some of his equipment to another room temporarily where he can see new things also adds interest.

4. Give your child several toys to occupy him, but not so many that it becomes overwhelming. When he becomes restless, provide a fresh selection of toys.

5. If your child is used to being carried, begin to spend time sitting on the floor with him trying distraction: demonstrate stacking blocks, pointing out eyes, nose and mouth on a doll or turning pages in a board book and then challenging him to do the same.

6. Tell him you have to work and casually move off without hesitation. Stay within view of your baby and if he is still voicing objections, talk or sing to him if it helps. Music is often a magical aid when it comes to young children!

7. A break outdoors with your baby in the fresh air will also do you both good. Changing the scenery can clear your mind, refreshing your patience and enabling you to begin anew on your work.

Keep expectations realistic! In the beginning stages, these ideas may only work for a few minutes. Remember that babies will still need one on one time with you with lots of attention and cuddling, and in generous doses! Be kind to your baby and yourself!