Just when children are most powerfully affected by their surroundings, they are most likely to experience poor quality child care. In the past five years, widely reported new research has shown how experiences affect brain development from birth to three years. Each area has clearly written procedures for waste disposal. Caregivers directly supervise toddlers by sight and sound, even when they are sleeping. Caregivers see parents as the primary source of affection and care for children.
Parents are always welcome in the home or center.
Caregivers have training in child development or early education specific to toddlers. They are warm and responsive to children's needs and patient in supporting children as they become more independent. Maximum group size of 12, with one adult for no more than six toddlers, preferably fewer, allows for the intimate atmosphere and high level of supervision that toddlers require. The staffing schedule allows each toddler to develop a close relationship with a primary caregiver. Toddlers stay in the same group for many months and from year to year if possible, to ensure close relationships.