"I was so nervous sending my kids to daycare. Actually cried a few times the 1st week and now I am so happy and grateful to send them to daycare with no stress. I love that they send me random updates and picture mail it means so much to me that they care enough to keep me updated on him and treat him as if he's their own."
- Marshanay, parent
Infant Care:
Our infant program strives to provide quality care to our youngest students by providing a safe environment, age-appropriate activities, a flexible schedule, and lots of love. Staffed at a 1:4 ratio or better, our infant teachers are here to work with the parents/guardians to provide a comfortable, home-like environment. We ask for parent input and advice and work very hard to keep the lines of communication between care giving staff and parents open.
Our infant program is based on our Highscope curriculum. It provides stimulation and reassurance by offering a structured yet flexible schedule of exercises, daily care routines, and love.
Continuity of Care:
This model of teaching sets us apart from other Erie County centers. Each child stays with the same group of children and teachers from the time they enter SMELC until they reach Pre-School age. They will then move to a new class at a time that mimics the transition to school. This helps teachers and families to develop a close bond that allows for better child development and family care. As teachers get to know families and their needs, they assist with referrals to our other programs or other area agencies.
A Day at the Center:
Our infant schedule is, naturally, more free schedule-wise than the other classrooms. These littlest ones eat and sleep as they need and are changed every two hours.
Our older infants (6 months+) begin to receive more structure. They have free play in the morning with toys in the classroom. Then, they eat breakfast (fruit/veggie + baby cereal) and drink a bottle. They work on holding a bottle by themselves, sitting up, and feeding themselves independently. They have play time which includes gross motor play with tunnels, balls, and things to climb over and on. They also have art projects, time to explore things in small groups and independently, music and dancing time, and fine motor activities. Then, they'll have lunch time to work on more independent skills. After lunch, we have nap time. Then, they play in the classroom until departure.
More Info/To Enroll:
Contact Kelly at 814-454-1675 or knies@stmartincenter.org
Financial Assistance:
The Early Learning Resource Center offers childcare assistance for those who qualify.
