Training Calendar and Registration

Infant/Toddler Curriculum Series: Learning Through Play and Interactions

• 10/03/19 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
• 10/10/19 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
• 10/17/19 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
• 10/24/19 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

This four session series focuses on curriculum in the infant-toddler program. For infants and toddlers, play and care routines are the curriculum. Infants and toddlers benefit from experiences that introduce them to early math, language and early literacy and science and sensory exploration. Just exposing infants and toddlers to these various experiences isn't enough. The fourth of the four sessions will focus on how teachers interactions with children during play and routines is a critical component in curriculum and learning.

Session 1-Language and Early Literacy is the first session in the Infant-Toddler Curriculum series. Infants and toddlers learn about language and literacy from the beginning when we talk to the infant during feedings or point to pictures in board books with a toddler. Participants will learn about how language develops and how they can support early learning through engagement in hands-on activities and discussion.

Session 2-Early math is the second in the Infant-Toddler Curriculum series. Infants start learning math concepts from birth. Research indicates that early math skills are a stronger indicator of success in elementary school than early literacy skills. Participants will recognize ways that they already provide math experiences to infants and toddlers and explore ways in which they can enhance the exposure that infants and toddlers have to various math concepts  through hands-on activities and discussion.  

Session 3-The third session in the Infant-Toddler Curriculum series is Science and Sensory Exploration. As the infant and toddler explore their environment, everything is a new learning experience. Infants and toddlers are learning how the world works as they explore using all of their senses. When the ball is mouthed, the baby learns how it feels and tastes; when he pushes it, it rolls away; when the baby drops it, his caregiver picks it up;  when the toddler bangs it on the table, it makes a satisfying noise; when she gives it to another toddler they discover they can play with it together. Providing a variety of experiences for infants and toddlers helps them understand their worlds. Participants will explore ways in which they can provide interesting science and exploration experiences for infants and toddlers.

Session 4-Putting It All Together in Play  is the final session in the Infant-Toddler Curriculum series. How a caregiver thoughtfully interacts with infants and toddlers during play is an important part of children's learning. Knowing when and how to interact is crucial to supporting children as they develop early literacy, math, and science skills. Participants will discuss and reflect on how observation of  children during play can help them decide when to interact and what strategies to use.

Gateways to Opportunity Content Area: E-Interactions, Relationships and Environments

CDA Content Area: 3-Social/Emotional

Trainer: Traci Hennings, Infant/Toddler Specialist, CCR&R

Content Hours: 2-8

*Must attend all four sessions to receive eight hours of training credit and 1/2 credential point in IRE-Interactions, Relationships and Environments.