wested.org introduction to module ii: group care developed by peter mangione. © wested, the program...

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Introduction to Module II:

Group Care

Developed by Peter Mangione. © WestEd, The Program for Infant/Toddler Care. This document may be reproduced for educational purposes.

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Critical Question

What are we trying to accomplish when caring for infants and toddlers in groups?

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Purpose of Infant/Toddler Care

Meet Parent/Family’s Needs

Meet Society’s Needs

Meet Infant’s Needs!

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1.Developmental Theory & Child Development Research

2.Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Education3.Practice/Observation

Influences on Infant/Toddler Care

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Social-emotional growth and first relationships are the foundation for all development during infancy

Infants learn through their senses and active discovery; they are competent, motivated learners

Connection to family and culture is critically important

What We Know from Research

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What We Know from Research

“Quality of care ultimately boils down to the quality of the relationship between the child care provider or teacher and the child.”

Shonkoff, J. P., & Phillips, D. A. (2000). From neurons to neighborhoods: The science of early childhood development.

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All young children (birth to 5) learn through self-initiated active exploration, manipulation of materials, and experimentation

However:

Infants and toddlers are not developmentally ready for projects that require planning or group learning activities such as circle time

Infants and Toddlers Aren’tLittle Preschoolers

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Our best means of learning how to set up care for infants and toddlers is to observe them.

Through observation, we understand the uniqueness of infancy, the meaning of their first relationships, and the special ways that they learn.

Observation

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Module II

Environment Care Routines Small Groups and

Individualization of Care Primary Care and

Continuity of Care

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RELATIONSHIP-BASED CARE:SIX PROGRAM POLICIES

Primary Care Small Groups Continuity of Care Individualization of Care Cultural Continuity Inclusion of Children with Special

Needs