MINIMINDS
DAYCARE
Programs
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world". Nelson Mandela
INFANT CARE
We accept infants from 6 weeks to 12 months on a full-time basis. Every baby is given consistent and personal attention from our dedicated and loving staff. We provide individual feeding, sleeping, diapering, and play schedules that respect the unique qualities of each infant. Developmentally appropriate activities are provided that allow infants plenty of time, space, and materials to learn and grow at their own pace. Since relationships with trusted adults are so important, the staff at Friends engages in many one-on-one, face-to-face interactions with infants, using a calm voice, simple language, and frequent eye contact. Playful interactions are done in ways that are sensitive to the child’s interests and level of tolerance for physical movement, different sights and sounds, and the presence of other children.
TODDLER PROGRAM
When children learn to walk, they are placed in a toddler class. Low teacher-to-child ratios (1:5) allow a great deal of personal attention and interaction with the adults. This gives the teachers at Friends the time to respond to the temperament, needs, and cues of each individual child. Small group and one-on-one activities allow children ample opportunities for hands-on, active exploration of their environment. Here, they experience an explosion of new concepts, ideas, and vocabulary, while they learn how to be part of a group. Daily communications with the families allow the toddler class to become a familiar, positive extension of the home.
At this age, children constantly test their limits and express opposition. One of their favorite words is NO! But this is a normal, necessary step as they develop a healthy sense of themselves as separate, autonomous individuals. Our teachers recognize this, so they use positively-worded directions that tell the children what they can do, instead of what they can’t do, for example, saying, “Use your walking feet” instead of “Don’t run.” Teachers patiently redirect the children to help guide them toward controlling their own impulses and behavior. In addition to working on social and emotional skills, the children also have opportunities every single day to expand their physical, cognitive, and language development.
SCHOOL AGE PROGRAM
Before and after school care is provided for school-age students up to age 10. After school, they are given a snack and time to do their homework, along with any help they need. Then they have a mixture of individual and group activities, some self-directed and some coordinated by their trained teacher. Time is made for outdoor play on a daily basis, weather permitting. Without realizing it, they are still learning, even when the homework is done!
ADVENTURES IN SPANISH PROGRAM
As part of our programs families can take the first step in raising a bilingual child. Research shows that the connections in the brain increase dramatically in the early years, making it easier to learn a new language. Children ages 3-5 participate in fun and active classes at MINIMINDS.
