Groups begin in the Fall and continue for a maximum of two years, meeting for 30 sessions each academic year. The parent-baby program provides a secure atmosphere for babies that is conducive to exploration, learning and early social interactions. Play activities include toys, music and stories. While babies play, parents discuss early child development, parenting, and the meanings and motivations behind infant behavior. Topics such as bonding, play, learning, self-esteem, and early development of the self are discussed in terms of the developmental needs of babies.
Groups meet one day per week for one hour.
There will be a maximum of seven parent-infant sets in each group, arranged according to age. Individual meetings with parents and their baby are scheduled prior to the beginning of the program in order to determine appropriate group placement. The Parent-toddler program provides play experiences for children appropriate to their development in the second year of life and offers information to parents about this important growth period. Parents observe their children at play and remain available to them. Play activities include toys, art materials, blocks, group games, music, story time, and snack.