How should the infant-toddler curriculum be viewed?

The infant-toddler curriculum should be viewed as a meandering path adaptable to children because it emphasizes flexibility and responsiveness to the emerging needs and interests of young learners. Unlike a rigid educational program or a strictly structured approach, this perspective recognizes that each child develops at their own pace and has unique learning styles and preferences.

In practice, this means that educators observe and engage with children to understand their curiosities and developmental milestones, allowing for modifications in the curriculum that align with individual and group interests. This approach fosters a nurturing environment where exploration, play, and personal growth are prioritized, reflecting a developmental understanding of how infants and toddlers learn best through active engagement and meaningful experiences.

Viewing the curriculum this way also discourages a one-size-fits-all mentality, acknowledging that learning is not a linear process but rather a dynamic journey that varies from child to child. This adaptability supports children's holistic development and helps cultivate a love for learning from an early age.