Watch a toddler play and you will often see much more happening than first appears.
Children may be communicating with each other, solving a problem, developing physical skills, experimenting with an idea or learning how to complete something independently.
That is one reason play forms an important part of early childhood programs.
For families looking for toddler childcare in Leeming and surrounding areas such as Bull Creek, Willetton, Murdoch, Bateman and Winthrop, understanding how play fits into the childcare day can help when comparing different centres.
Toddlers are developing independence
Between two and three years of age, children are beginning to develop many self-help and social skills.
At Leeming Child Care Centre, Little Ted’s Room encourages children to develop independence and self-help skills as part of its program. Children also learn about social skills, emotional wellbeing and toilet-training concepts.
These areas do not have to be separated from play.
An environment where children can participate, interact and explore gives educators opportunities to support learning throughout the day.
Indoor and outdoor environments both matter
Different environments create different opportunities for children.
Little Ted’s Room provides children with spacious indoor and outdoor play areas which the centre describes as safe and stimulating for the toddler age group.
When touring a childcare centre, parents can ask to see where children spend their time and what types of play and activities happen in different spaces.
It can also be useful to ask how the daily program changes according to children’s interests and development.
Play can take many forms
Play-based learning does not mean children are simply left to entertain themselves.
Little Ted’s Room describes its program as fun, innovative and stimulating, with activities designed to enhance learning and development across a range of areas.
The centre also offers its toddlers a weekly Boogie Woogie Music and Movement Dance Program, introducing children to rhymes, songs, movement and music. Various incursions are also offered throughout the year.
This variety gives parents a useful example of the different experiences that can form part of a childcare program.
Ask questions when you visit
If you’re comparing childcare centres, some of the most useful information will come from seeing the environment and speaking to the people who work there.
Rather than simply asking, “What activities do you do?”, consider asking how activities support children’s independence, social interactions and development.
Parents looking for childcare around Willetton, Bull Creek, Murdoch, Bateman, Winthrop and Leeming can find more information about Leeming Child Care Centre’s toddler program here:
For questions about childcare:
Contact Leeming Child Care Centre
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