Competency statement 1

CSI

-GOAL #1- To establish and maintain a safe, healthy, learning environment
-FUNCTIONAL AREAS- safe, healthy, learning environment

SAFE- To maintain a safe environment for infants I make sure that all small toys and objects that could cause an infant to choke are removed from the area. Toys with sharp, pointed edges should be removed as well. I always give infants my constant supervision because they are dependent on me for their every need.
Mobile infants have just begun to walk and crawl. They are curious and want to explore their surroundings. It is of important that their surroundings are safe. I do that by making sure that all electrical outlets are covered and cords are both out of sight and out of reach. Toys are at the mobile infants level and appropriate for their age and stage of development.
To maintain a safe environment for toddlers can be quite a challenge. They think they can do most anything at this age. I make sure that their toys are developmentally appropriate and encourage their curiosity. Toddlers require constant supervision to ensure complete safety.

HEALTHY- In order for infants to have a healthy environment they must be in an area that is virtually germ free. I wash my hands constantly. I also wash my hands before and after preparing food and after diaper changes. I also wear gloves while changing diapers and sanitize the changing area after each use. All toys are sanitized daily as well. I also always make sure to practice universal precautions.
To maintain a healthy environment for mobile infants, I make sure that their area is sanitized daily. I sanitize and wash the walls, tables, chairs, sleeping mats and toys. It is essential for them to eat properly, so I provide healthy, wholesome foods, drinks and snacks.
To maintain a healthy environment, as with all ages, I make sure the area is sanitized daily. I assist them with washing their hands before and after each meal, after playing outside and after using the bathroom. I also make sure they have healthy foods, drinks and snacks throughout the day.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT- Infants learn early on through books, play and song. And through play they learn eye to hand coordination. I spend a large amount of one on one time with infants. This closeness makes them feel safe and secure.
Mobile infants love to explore. They begin to learn so many different things. Such as, tastes, smells, sounds and textures. I make sure that they have many exciting and interesting things in which to explore. I read books, sing songs and play games with them as well. I always provide them with age appropriate learning materials.
Toddlers have a very short attention span, so they need to have numerous activities available to them. They learn by example, so I talk to them using please and thank you. They also learn from other children, so I try to encourage children to watch the other children while playing. Playing games is crucial for the development of coordination, balance and gross motor skills. I do this on a daily basis. We sing songs, read books and talk about shapes, colors, numbers and letters.