“Woke up, fell out of bed, dragged a comb across my head. Found my way downstairs and had a cup” – Yep, The Beatles said it all. I know, they were not talking about a parent with a child in day care BUT, they could have been. The experience is not much different then a Mom or Dad getting ready for the typical day on the job – and it starts with getting the children to their caregiver.
The Tender Nest believes that successful child care results when there is parent/provider collaboration. It is important for a parent to begin their workday knowing their child is not only safe and protected but is also established in a routine that promotes well being. Children respond to the safety of moderate structure.
So, the following is a typical day for a two to five year old at the Tender Nest:
Arrival begins at 7:30am. Hugs and kisses goodbye from Mom or Dad. There’s breakfast, free play and a lot more hugs and kisses from Nezzie and Harvey. Then comes the pledge of allegiance, circle time and the curriculum. About 30 minutes of basic pre-k concepts are taught. A craft is done at least three or four times weekly supporting the current theme. Book day and show and tell occur weekly. Outside time is enjoyable and whether permitting the children get the opportunity to burn off some of their healthy excess energy. Of course there is morning snack and at about noon, phonetic awareness concepts are introduced and reinforced. Stories are read daily. Then, the children get ready for what may be their most important meal of the day – lunch. Nezzie prepares everything from a basic sandwich to a casserole. Fruits and veggies are provided and you know what – the children actually eat and enjoy them. Friday is pizza day!
Nap time is important. A child cannot be forced to sleep, but a clean and comfortable mat or cot assures that most of the children are snoring within 10 minutes. Then there is afternoon snack, more outside time and dismissal.
Infants and toddlers have a different schedule but during the day they are integrated with the older group as the schedule allows.
By the time your child gets home, they will be have been well loved, well fed and meaningfully educated – and likely, ready for a good nights sleep.
See ya tomorrow.
