Ms. Maria's Neighborschool

During a typical day at Maria's Family Daycare, when the children arrive, I greet them and show them how to remove their jackets and wash their hands. I tell them to play for a few minutes while Ms. Maria gets breakfast ready, and when they are finished, we wash hands, and they go back to playing while I clean up. Then we do diaper changes and wash hands to get ready for circle time. We sing the ABCs and start the day by asking who knows what day it is. I have songs for each day of the week. We break for a few minutes and get the materials ready for the next activity of the day. After that, we clean up and do some body exercises - sometimes we do free play and other times we make a circle and start to dance. I observe the children during this time and take notes.

I use a curriculum program called Curriculo de Primera Infancia. Days include science, math, music, and reading time, all of which are tailored to our theme of the day. For example, children use plastic scissors to try to cut paper and show what is around them, and in our community. I have lots of photos and clothes for dress up in the Dramatic Play area - along with fruits and vegetables. I also teach them about healthy habits and the parts of the body.

I share different cultures through food, language and photos. At mealtime, I show them how to sit well and use good manners to chew with their mouths closed and use a napkin. I show them it is important to eat healthily. I also show them how to discard leftovers in the trash and that we don't touch anything else until hands are washed and we have brushed our teeth.

What is NeighborSchools?

NeighborSchools helps experienced caregivers launch and operate licensed home daycares in Massachusetts. With better ratios and experienced caretakers, home daycare allows for more individualized attention for infants and toddlers. As a parent, you get a trusted partner for the long-term care of your child, right in your neighborhood, at a price you can afford.