Infant Stimulation Programmes

INFANT STIMULATION PROGRAMMES 3 (0+3)

Module 1: Visits to different Child Care Centers

Stimulation Material available in the centre

• Attractive and well-written story and picture books are available for the children.
• Children have the opportunity to use creative materials, such as paint, crayons, big blank pieces of paper rather than coloring books, paste, clay or play dough, scissors, and pencils. The children's art work is displayed in the center and is also sent home for parents.
• Three or more of the following are available for the children's use: large and small riding toys, pull toys, pounding toys, beads for stringing, puzzles, small and large blocks, nested toys, small building toys like Tinker toys, dress-up clothes, dolls.
• The outdoor play area has three or more of the following: cartons or boards for building, sandbox with sand toys, low slide, riding toys, balance beam, tires, see-saw.
• Children are in small enough groups within the center so that the children appear to be secure and "at home" rather than lost in a crowd.
• Children may watch only appropriate television programs if there is a TV or Computers. They are not forced or encouraged to sit in front of the TV/ computer for long periods of time.
• The center has materials for quiet play, such as puzzles and active play, such as riding toys. Children can get at least some materials by themselves and are encouraged to take care of and put away materials.
• There are enough toys and materials so that each child can participate without having to wait more than a few minutes.
• For at least part of the day, children can choose what they want to do, either individually or in small groups.
• Caregivers encourage listening and talking through planned activities like storytelling, word games, puppetry, doll play, and show and tell. .
• Caregivers encourage both boys and girls to play with all the materials - such as climbing and riding toys, dress-up clothes, tools, dolls, cars and trucks. Caregivers do not give children the idea that a certain activity is only for boys or only for girls.
  

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