15.4: Program Features That Support Effective Infant and Toddler Curriculum

Program policies set the stage for infant/toddler learning and development. Program policies that support effective infant/toddler curriculum planning and implementation include these elements:

• Primary Care—assigning a primary infant care teacher to each child and family
• Small Groups—creating small groups of children and caregivers
  Continuity—maintaining consistent teacher assignments and groups over time
  Personalized Care—responding to individual needs, abilities, and schedules
  Cultural Continuity—maintaining cultural consistency between home and program through dialogue and collaboration with families
  Inclusion of Children with Special Needs—providing appropriate accommodations and support for children with disabilities or other special needs.^[1]