Every day, you make choices that can impact your child’s health and well-being. You may decide what your child wears, when and what they eat, and who they spend time with.
While many of the decisions you make will be small, some will be incredibly important to your child’s overall well-being. One of the biggest decisions you make will be where to send your infant or toddler to school.
Finding infant and toddler programs in Pasco County doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This guide will detail what to look for in a great infant and toddler care program.
Reach out to the team at Little Sunshine Preschool now to schedule a tour or learn about our programs. We can’t wait to meet you and your child soon!
Finding Infant and Toddler Daycare in Pasco County FL: What to Look For
Infants and toddlers use their senses to learn about the world around them. Babies begin to absorb information like a sponge from the moment they are born. Research shows that a child’s brain develops more between birth and five years than at any other time. This can explain why young children are so energetic and curious!
Finding centers in Pasco County that provide safe, nurturing care and education programs is crucial. But how can you be sure you choose high-quality early education child care?
Here are some of the most important things to look for in early education childcare programs.
Accreditation
Early childhood program accreditation is a mark of high-quality care. Many centers pursue national accreditation to demonstrate their commitment to safe, evidence-based programs.
National early childhood program accreditation means that an organization has evaluated the child care center and found it meets strict standards for safety and care.
The Accreditation Commission for Early Learning has strict standards. Finding an accredited program can give you peace of mind.
A regular daily schedule
Infants and toddlers feel safe and secure when caregivers create predictable schedules. A regular daily schedule ensures young children’s needs are met and provides essential structure to the day.
A daily schedule should include time for:
- Play
- Rest
- Meals
- Diaper changes/toileting
- Outdoor play
- Movement
- Transitions
When you visit an infant or toddler daycare in Pasco County, ask to see a daily schedule. This will help you understand what a typical day may be like for your child.
Sensory play
Young children learn through their senses. Young babies and toddlers absorb information about the world long before they can speak or express themselves clearly. Finding an infant and toddler program that provides plenty of sensory play is important.
Some things to look for in an infant or toddler classroom include:
- Musical instruments
- A bright, clean environment
- High-quality toys that encourage open-ended play, such as dolls, animals, and blocks
- Sturdy, child-proof books
- Sensory bins with age-appropriate materials
When you visit the individual center, ask how teachers incorporate sensory play into their day.
Outdoor play
Spending time in nature is so beneficial to young children. Nature provides many opportunities to smell, touch, hear, and feel new things. Research shows that children with regular access to nature often have better outcomes in the classroom later on.
Find a high-quality early learning program that promotes outdoor play for all ages. When you visit, look for a safe, enriching outdoor play area with age-appropriate equipment and toys.
How to Find Infant and Toddler Programs in Pasco County, Florida
As a parent, you want to find safe, enriching care for your baby or toddler. When exploring nearby Pasco County child care centers, you will likely find a range of options. So, how can you find the right center for you and your child?
Here are some signs of a high-quality early learning program.
1. The center has excellent reviews
When searching for high-quality care, read through parent reviews. While reviews on individual centers’ pages can be helpful, objective reviews are even better.
Look for reviews on local parenting group sites or social media. Ask parents about their real-life experiences.
2. Dedicated teachers
Make sure the center has educated, experienced teachers guiding its programs. Experience and dedication are essential to providing safe, enriching care.
3. Hours and location
Consider your family’s needs when choosing an early learning program. Does the center offer care during the hours you need? Is it conveniently located?
Consider whether the program offers other early learning programs. Keeping your child in one center throughout childhood can reduce stress and smooth transitions at every stage.
Find an Infant and Toddler Program
At Little Sunshine Preschool, we offer high-quality infant and toddler care programs, pre-K in Pasco County, and VPK programs.
If you are looking for incredible infant and toddler care, contact us to learn about our programs. Or, come check out the industry-leading health and safety measures we’ve put in place to protect children at every stage.
We look forward to meeting you and your child soon!
