Infant and Toddler Program

For our youngest infants, caregiving routines—such as feedings, diaper changes, and rest—are treated as intentional moments of connection. Through gentle eye contact, reassuring dialogue, and mindful touch, teachers invite each baby to be an active participant in their own care. Every interaction is an opportunity to communicate security, belonging, and respect.

As infants grow into early toddlers and begin to find more predictable rhythms, they transition into our older infant/toddler classroom. Here, they move toward a more consistent group schedule while still receiving responsive, individualized attention. This setting allows them to explore early social relationships—learning side by side with others, imitating movements, and beginning to communicate with greater intention. Teachers support these budding interactions with patience and guidance, helping toddlers build trust not only with adults but with one another.

We follow a relationship-based, play-centered curriculum that honors children’s natural curiosity. Teachers closely observe each child’s interests and emerging skills, designing experiences that follow their lead.

• Infants learn primarily through their senses and relationships—tasting, grasping, moving, listening, and interacting with the world around them. Outdoor exploration is a meaningful part of the day, where children experience the natural beauty of the UCSC campus and connect with the rhythms of nature.
• Toddlers continue to build on their infant foundations—only now with more confidence, mobility, and expression. They are still sensory learners, still discovering how their bodies move and how their voices carry meaning—but their world expands as they become more aware of others around them. Through shared play, imitation, and conversation, they begin practicing empathy, turn-taking, problem-solving, and emotional expression in simple yet meaningful ways.

Across all stages, our teaching teams curate warm and enriching environments filled with open-ended materials that invite wonder, experimentation, and joy. Whether crinkling leaves, stacking blocks, or laughing with a friend, every moment is part of a thoughtful and respectful learning journey—one that unfolds at each child’s own pace.