It’s a bit easier to imagine what older children do. In most cases, you can just ask them! If they have a good time, they’ll be sure to let you know. You’ll also be able to recognize the signs when they don’t seem to enjoy their daycare center.
With babies, it can be a bit more challenging to figure out what they do at daycare. Not only are babies prone to cry for many different reasons, they also can’t communicate fully yet, so it might be hard to understand what they do at daycare and whether they enjoy their time at their center.
So, what does the baby daycare experience include?
Every daycare is, of course, different. But high-quality facilities should have welcoming environments and research-based programs to help your infant thrive and support their development. Read on to learn what to expect at child care facilities, specifically in their infant programs.
What Makes a High-Quality Daycare Center?
When you walk into a high-quality daycare center, you’ll know. Your family will feel welcome; you’ll get peace of mind from health, safety, and security policies; and you’ll see environments designed for every age group – including soft, sensory-rich places where babies can explore and learn to crawl, pull up, roll over, walk, and more.
Personalized care plans for every infant in the classroom should include nutritional guidelines, allergies, family preferences, feeding and sleep schedules, and other unique needs.
Additionally, babies should have an assigned primary caregiver for one-on-one moments -- bonding, social interaction, and support for skill-building.
So, What Do Babies Do at Daycare?
Wondering what to expect at a daycare? Every daycare is different, but generally, babies should get a well-rounded experience that supports all areas of their development. This includes reading, art, sign language, exploration of natural and everyday objects, and time for outdoor discovery. Babies should also have plenty of time to practice skills that support upcoming developmental milestones, such as crawling, sitting, walking, and more.
Do a daycare comparison and tour local centers (virtually or in person) to see what babies do at daycare firsthand. You’ll have the chance to ask specific questions, observe, and see the curriculum and activities in action.
