Achieve the peace of mind you deserve by trusting the care of your infant or toddler to the professionals at Little Friends. We offer a full selection of infant and toddler care services in Mount Vernon, NY, for children as young as six weeks. Reach out to us today to speak with one of our friendly and skilled childcare workers.
Bottle Feeding
Bottles must be glass or plastic and labeled with "1," "2," "3," or "5." Additionally, the bottle must not contain the chemical biphenyl-A (BPA) or phthalates. Bottles will not be heated in the microwave or, if warmed by water, to temperatures above 120 degrees. Bottles and nipples will be cleaned before each use using only warm, soapy water and a bottle brush, or in the dishwasher. If bottles are prepared ahead of time, including those sent from home, the nipples will be kept covered, and the bottle will be labeled with the date prepared. Infants will not be allowed to share bottles or infant cups, and all bottles or cups will be labeled with the child's name. Infant bottles will be kept inaccessible to other children as well. Any milk, breast milk, or formula that has been sitting at room temperature for more than one hour will be thrown away.
Solid Foods
Parents must give approval before any solid food can be introduced to an infant. To ensure the safety of the infant while being served solid foods, staff will hold or sit the infant in a semi-reclined or upright position and will not allow infants to share dishes or utensils. After heating and before serving, all food will be stirred and tested for a safe temperature. All uneaten food left in the serving container after the infant is full will be thrown away. Infants will be served solid food by utensil or allowed to feed themselves by hand. Infants will always be fed when hungry unless the parent or guardian has given written instructions for an alternative feeding schedule. Feeding will stop when the infant shows signs of fullness.
Diapering
Diapers are checked often throughout the day, and a strict hand washing policy is in effect. All staff members must wash their hands before and after diapering. Staff must also wash the child's hands or cleanse them with baby wipes immediately after diapering the child. Parents are responsible for laundering soiled clothing, diapers, and underwear. Parents should supply diapers, wipes, and rash ointments.
Potty Training
We may recommend potty training if we notice that your child is ready; however, we feel that this process should be introduced by the parents. We are more than happy to assist you during this process by encouraging your children using a sticker chart, treats, and more.
Schedule
A weekly toddler and infant care schedule may be posted or emailed. Please check for activities that we complete throughout the day.
5:00 am - Daycare Opens / Free Play
7:45 - 9:00 am - Breakfast / Free Play
9:30 am - Preschool Activities (Circle Time, Dance, Music, Stories)
10:00 am - Lesson / Crafts
11:00 am - Indoor Play / Outdoor Play
12:00 pm - Lunch
1:00 pm - Nap/Rest Time (Quiet Play for Non-Sleepers)
2:50 pm - Quiet Play (Puzzles, Play-Dough, Reading)
3:30 pm - Snack
3:45 pm - Large Group Activities
4:30 pm - Free Play
5:30 pm - Cleanup / Individual Play Activities (Play-Dough, Math Games, Fine Motor Games)
