For very young children, differences from one child to the next are normal. For example, some infants may take several short naps throughout the day, whereas others may take one or two longer naps. We also think about schedules in terms of how much time is given to different routines. A daily consistent yet flexible schedule will help maintain routines that are supportive of these qualities. Each is unique in personality, needs, and responsiveness. Infants and toddlers should be viewed as capable and competent. A Daily Schedule for Infants and Toddlers A predictable schedule filled with consistent and responsive routines helps them to know what to expect and helps them feel more confident in themselves and the world around them. When things happen in the same order each day, infants and toddlers have a better understanding of their world and feel more secure. Infants and toddlers do not understand the concept of time, so they organize themselves by the people they are with and the events that happen. How would you feel? How might your feelings affect your ability to find this new location? How will your feelings affect your behavior with the teacher and infants in the other classroom? How does this apply to infants’ and toddlers’ feelings and behaviors in settings with varying and unpredictable schedules and routines? When you come here tomorrow, you may be helping at a different location again. We need you to work with a teacher in the infant classroom at another child care center.

We also need you to help at a different location. What if you arrived at your place of work and were told, “You’ll be starting at a different time today. Take a moment to think about your day today. Know Why Are Schedules and Routines Important?

Infant daily schedule