Raising a child means moving through many stages. Each stage has its own set of needs. This is why finding the proper care for your child matters so much. Infants and toddlers grow fast. What works for a baby may not suit a toddler. Parents looking for childcare at Avenue U must understand this difference.
A good daycare in Avenue U, does more than just watch over children. It supports their growth. It provides the right environment for learning. It ensures that the children are safe and feel loved. However, infants do not need the same things that toddlers need. This is what makes care need to change as your child develops.
Caring for Infants (3 to 12 Months)
Infants need care that feels close and calm. Their world is still new. They learn by seeing, touching and listening. Every sound and movement helps their brain grow. At this age, feeding and sleep are two main parts of the day.
Infant care at a daycare on Avenue U should follow a clear feeding schedule. Some babies need breast milk while others take formula. Caregivers must feed on time. They must hold the baby while feeding. That slight touch builds trust.
Sleep is also key. Infants nap many times during the day. A good centre provides each baby with a quiet, clean place to rest. Safe sleep matters. Babies must always sleep on their backs. The crib must be free of pillows, blankets or toys.
Infants also need short play times. These should focus on touch, sound and movement. Soft music, textured toys and gentle lights help a lot. It builds the senses. It helps with brain growth.
Caregiver bonding is just as necessary. A baby must feel safe. This would only be possible when there is one or two caregivers caring for one or two babies at a time. In that manner, they would be able to hold and talk to the baby frequently.
Caring for Toddlers (1 to 2 Years)
Toddlers are more active. They want to walk, talk and touch everything. That is how they learn. Their care should match that energy. A daycare on Avenue U should have space for movement. It should also have books, toys and puzzles.
Language begins to grow fast at this stage. Toddlers start saying their first words. They may ask for water or point to a toy. Caregivers must talk with them often. This helps with word learning.
Motor skills also grow now. Toddlers start climbing and running. They begin to use their hands in new ways. Centres must plan games that help with these movements. Large blocks, soft balls and finger paints work well.
Social play begins too. Toddlers like to be near others. They may not know how to share yet, but they enjoy being in the company of others. Group play builds these skills. It also teaches them how to take turns and express needs.
This is also the stage where toddlers want to do things by themselves. They want to feed themselves. They try to put on their shoes. The care must support this. It should allow freedom, but always with safety in mind.
Some toddlers also start potty training. Not all are ready at the same time. A good centre checks signs of readiness. It supports both the parent and the child during this time.
Why Caregiver Ratios and Training Matter
Infants and toddlers need close attention. That is why group size and staff training are significant. New York City has set rules for this.
For infants, there are 4 babies per adult. The group is even smaller in most centres. This gives time to feeding, diapering and comfort.
For toddlers, one adult to every five children should be used. Naturally, toddlers might require assistance in walking or eating. That is why the group must still be small.
Staff must be trained to meet the needs of each age. Infant caregivers must know safe sleep rules and feeding steps. Toddler caregivers must support learning through play and help with big emotions.
Moving from Infant to Toddler Care
This change is a big step. The space looks different. The routine changes. The caregivers may also change. But if done right, the child feels ready and happy.
At a quality daycare, Avenue U, the transition is planned well. The new caregiver spends time with the infant before the move. The infant visits the toddler room for short times. Parents are kept in the loop. They know what to expect.
Indications of readiness in a child are walking, taking solid food and having fewer naps. Parents ought to enquire about the way this shift is managed in the centre. They are to look for signs that the child feels secure in the new room.
Cost of Care: Infant vs. Toddler
Infant care often costs more. This is because babies need more one-on-one time. The group is smaller. The care is more hands-on.
Toddler care may cost a little less. Toddlers can play in small groups. They share meals and sleep simultaneously. This helps centres plan better.
Families in Brooklyn must plan for these costs. Some tips that may help include:
- Discover options for flexible payment.
- Ask about sibling discounts.
- The cost of childcare is something to consider when budgeting for a family.
- Find out whether you are eligible for childcare in NYC.
- Ask for a clear cost breakdown before enrolling
Final Thoughts
Infant care and toddler care are not similar. Each stage has its own needs. From feeding and sleep to play and learning, every detail counts. That is why the childcare you choose must grow with your child.
Little Scholars on Avenue U provides care for children from 3 months through Pre-K. The team knows what babies need. They also know how toddlers learn. If you want care that adapts to your child, reach out to Little Scholars for a consultation.
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