Provider Tips
Tips for a Quality Infant Experience
by Lynnea Hufendiek
1. Caregivers should interact with the infants as much as possible. Most of the day should be spent talking, reading, singing, and introducing the infants to new experiences.
2. The ratios of infants to providers must always follow the standards that are set for childcare programs. When the budget allows, the ratio of children to providers should be lowered.
3. The room should be set up with open areas for the children to experience and explore. The children should not be constantly moved from a swing, bouncy seat, exersaucer, high chair, etc, to keep them entertained.
4. Each child shall have his/her own crib to sleep in with bedding that is kept clean to prevent the spread of illnesses. The crib shall be clear and the infants shall be placed in the crib on their backs and only for naptime.
5. All surfaces in the area should be surface washable and done so with a wash, rinse, and sanitize method. This will also help prevent the spread of illnesses.
6. The diaper changing area should be surface washable and done so after each use. The caregiver should wash his or her hands before and after each diaper change. Washing the child’s hands after a diaper change is also good practice. Babies are naturally curious and eager to imitate. The hand washing habit will become life long.
7. Bottles and feeding dishes should be washed, rinsed, and sanitized between each use. The serving and storage recommendations should be strictly followed on formula, breast milk and baby food. This will ensure that meals are healthy and safe for the infants.
8. Each infant should have his/her own space for belongings such as extra clothing, bedding, diapering materials, and feeding supplies. Labeling will help to keep things organized.
9. Curriculum is not ABC and 123. Childcare providers should have knowledge of what is developmentally appropriate and should plan experiences that will foster the child’s growth and development – both physically and emotionally.
10. Caregiving is a partnership between the family and the caregivers. We have to respect each other’s views while doing ONLY what is in the best interest of the child. This is a relationship that takes work and an open line of communication.
We are very proud to feature this monthly column by Lynnea Hufendiek. Ms. Hufendiek has dedicated her life to Early Childhood Education. She has a particular passion for discovering and teaching new ways to empower children to make positive choices and assert their own self-expression in the World. Come back to this section each month for Lynnea's Top 10 Provider Tips. If you have any topics that you would like to see addressed forward your ideas to: Contact@ChildcareBridge.com.