Caterpillars and Butterflies
The youngest children in the Centre, aged from 3 months to approximately 2 years old.
We work to encourage a baby's development in an environment which is homely, nurturing and stimulating where they are free to explore in a safe, stimulating space, where activities, toys and physical needs are met. Ensuring provision meets the individual physical and developmental needs of each child. The area is safe for babies to sit, crawl or lay, having soft areas with rugs.
There is a wide range of equipment including a community playthings play gym, large padded mat, large and small pieces of equipment, which encourage the development of gross and fine motor control. We have a comfortable sofa where children can relax and sit closely with staff to look at books/small toys or relax comfortably whilst having their bottle. It is important to remember that children should feel relaxed and comfortable in this area as it is a substitute living room, being a home from home, we have therefore provide a range soft furnishings/curtains cushions etc., to take away the institutional look and appearance.
Both Caterpillars and Butterflies operate a 'free flow' environment, where children are given the opportunity to move around the room, accessing individual learning areas. Activities are planned which enable staff to monitor and observe each child's development. The room is set up into different areas following the EYFS framework.
The adult child ration is 1:3 There are a number of cots in the area and children under one tend to sleep in these, having a nap as and when required. Cots are positioned in the playroom so staff can continually monitor and watch the very young children while they sleep. Children over one tend to have their nap on sleep mattresses on the floor in the quiet side. There is a half gate to enter the side room, this also enables staff to monitor and watch children closely as they sleep, without disturbing them. If children fall asleep in the play area they will be made comfortable and safe and will not be disturbed.
We work with parents in helping children to develop feeding and walking skills at the appropriate time. We work to develop confidence, to prepare them for moving into the toddler group. Activities are varied concentrating on touch, texture, sound, shape and sizes as well as looking to develop physical co-ordination. The following activities are provide to develop these skills, painting, sand/water play, tactile experiences clay/dough, using large construction equipment. Children discover the pleasure and enjoyment gained through looking at large colourful picture books. Musical activities will take place, making a range of sound with instruments and singing action rhymes and songs, whilst also listening to a wide range of different types of music. Key persons will also work to have individual sessions with your child, on a 1 to 1 basis. This will enable them to complete your child's individual development portfolio. At the end of each day you will be able to look in your child's daily diary to have a look at how they have been through out the day, what they have eaten and drunk, amount of sleep and how often they have soiled their nappies. Parents can take these home, but they must return the next time a child is in the centre to enable further records to be made.
