The care that infants, toddlers, and twos receive and their experiences during the first 3 years of life have a powerful influence on how they view the world, how they relate to others and their ability to succeed as learners.  We, at Sunbeam, have the unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of very young children and their families.

Infants, toddlers, and 2-year-olds are in the most vulnerable and important period of life. Initially, they are totally dependent on adults to meet their need. If the care and experiences they have are nurturing, consistent, and loving, children flourish. Almost every day you can see exciting changes as children learn to trust you, joyfully explore the environment you have created, make discoveries, care about others, and begin to see themselves as competent learners. Infant, toddlers, and twos who receive high-quality care are more likely to become sociable, capable preschoolers who get along with others, demonstrate self-control, and love learning.   (Excerpts from: Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers, & Twos)

Our Little Sunbeams, Waddlers, Toddler Blue, and Toddler Gold classrooms understand and embrace the idea that quality care is keys to the success of a child’s development.  We provide experiences and support to children within the areas of  social/emotional, physical, cognitive, and language development.

Our infant/toddler teachers use Teaching Strategies for Infant/Toddlers as their main guide for lesson planning. Lesson plans are posted each month on the classroom bulletin board and emailed to parents.  Teachers communicate daily with families through daily reports and also have access to email.  Pictures are sent weekly via email to allow parents to “see” the experiences in which their infant/toddlers can engage. 

Little Sunbeams and Waddlers (3 months-24 months)

At Sunbeam, we accommodate the rapid changes and demand of the infant’s first years and build confidence into their transition to toddler age.

Toddler Blue and Toddler Gold (24 months- 36 months)

The second year of life is a time of rapid overall growth.  Some of life’s biggest challenges face children at this time: how to be safe, how to get what they want without taking from others, and how to express themselves. Children at this age are capable of demonstrating  many skills and we at Sunbeam support these abilities.