As a dedicated childcare provider, I’m passionate about fostering a nurturing and enriching environment for young children. I believe in the power of cultural diversity and strive to incorporate families; unique customs and beliefs into our daily activities. By partnering closely with parents, I aim to empower children with practical life skills that promote independence and environmental awareness.
Through age-appropriate chores like folding hand towels, raking leaves, cleaning tables, watering plants, preparing snacks, washing dishes, matching socks, and hanging clothing with clothespins, children develop essential life skills and a sense of responsibility. These hands-on experiences not only contribute to their physical and cognitive development but also instill a sense of accomplishment and pride.
In addition to practical life skills, I prioritize the development of social-emotional skills. By encouraging kindness, collaborative work, and friendship, I create a supportive and inclusive community where children can learn to interact positively with others.
I was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico and currently residing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I am a wife and mother of 2 (Mateo and Marena) who fill my life with energy with their constant demands. As a family, we love spending time together: building Legos, letting our imaginations fly, playing board games, going for walks, or just enjoying each other’s company.
I am bilingual, with a bachelor’s degree in Special Education, specializing in visual impairments and with a second concentration in art education. Additionally, I have a master’s degree in educational administration and supervision.
I worked for three years in the public schools of Puerto Rico and, since 2013, I have been an elementary special education teacher at MPS. In 2015, being a mother for the first time, I identified a great need in the field of daycare.
That is why, in 2017, I founded Gardner Learning Center, LLC. My mission is to foster the educational and personal development of each child and staff member who is part of our facilities. Our program focuses on meeting the physical, social, and emotional needs of each child, providing them with a quality academic education to facilitate their transition to school.
Seven years later, we remain committed to our vision of serving the early education community. That’s why we are working on opening a new daycare center by 2025. I continue to find immense joy and satisfaction in my daily work, caring for and accompanying children along with their parents.
In addition to being a childcare provider, I am a certified CPR instructor and facilitator of fundamental educational courses for working in daycare centers.
My passion for helping others drives me to support the professional growth of other providers. Since January 2024, I have been collaborating with the Proveedoras Unidas Association, offering training and workshops to empower childcare providers in our community.
My ultimate goal is to contribute to the childcare sector, providing the tools and knowledge necessary to achieve success. I firmly believe that collective growth benefits the children and families we serve.
In my free time, I love to paint, draw, crocheting, embroidery, build with Legos, and write in a journal. I also really enjoy cooking for my family. Food is a way to connect with our Puerto Rican roots and strengthen our family ties.
Breastfeeding is a beautiful and nurturing experience for mothers and babies. However, as babies grow and their schedules change, transitioning to bottle feeding often becomes necessary, especially when starting daycare. This article explores the importance of a smooth transition, offers practical tips for mothers and daycare providers, and provides information on milk consumption and the introduction of solids.
Understanding the Transition
Transitioning from breast to bottle can be a significant adjustment for both mother and baby. It is important to approach this process with patience and understanding. Here are some key considerations:
Start Early: It is generally recommended to begin introducing the bottle gradually several weeks before the baby starts daycare. This allows the baby to become familiar with the bottle and nipple, reducing anxiety and potential difficulties.
Practice at Home: Mothers should practice offering the bottle at home, allowing the baby to associate the bottle with a positive experience. This can involve offering the bottle during a time when the baby is calm and content.
Involve the Partner or Caregiver: If possible, involve the baby’s partner or caregiver in the bottle-feeding process. This can help the baby become accustomed to different people feeding them and can also provide support for the mother.
Daycare Provider Support
Daycare providers play a crucial role in supporting mothers and babies during the transition to bottle feeding. Here are some ways providers can assist:
Consistency: It is essential for daycare providers to maintain consistency in the type of bottle and nipple used, as well as the feeding schedule. This helps prevent confusion for the baby.
Positive Reinforcement: Providers should offer positive reinforcement to the baby during bottle feedings, such as talking softly or singing a lullaby. This can create a pleasant association with the bottle.
Open Communication: Open communication between mothers and daycare providers is vital. Mothers should feel comfortable sharing any concerns or questions they may have, and providers should be proactive in providing updates and support.
Building a Frozen Milk Supply
For mothers who plan to continue breastfeeding while their baby is in daycare, building a frozen milk supply is essential. Here are some tips for maintaining a consistent milk supply:
Pump Regularly: Establish a pumping schedule that works for you. Pumping every 2-3 hours during the day and once at night can help maintain a steady supply.
Store Milk Properly: Label and date milk bags or containers before freezing. Store milk in the freezer for up to six months.
Thaw Milk Safely: To thaw milk, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight. Warm the milk to a comfortable temperature before feeding.
Supplementing with Formula
If a mother’s milk supply is insufficient, supplementing with formula may be necessary. It is important to consult with a pediatrician to determine the appropriate amount of formula to supplement.
Milk Consumption in the First Year
According to pediatricians, the average infant consumes approximately 20-32 ounces of milk per day in the first year. However, individual needs may vary. It is essential to monitor your baby’s intake and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Introducing Solids
Typically, solids are introduced around six months of age. However, the timing may vary depending on the baby’s developmental readiness. Here are some things to consider:
Baby’s Cues: Watch for signs that your baby is ready for solids, such as sitting up with support, showing interest in food, and having good head control.
Variety: Offer a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein sources.
Breastmilk or Formula: Continue to offer breastmilk or formula as the primary source of nutrition during the first year. Solids should be viewed as complementary.
Transitioning from breast to bottle can be a smooth process with careful planning and support. By following the tips outlined in this article, mothers and daycare providers can work together to ensure a positive experience for both baby and parent.
Involving children in household chores from a young age can foster a sense of responsibility, independence, and contribute to their development. Here’s a guide on age-appropriate chores, Montessori-inspired approaches, and how parents can integrate their children into daily routines.
Montessori and Chores
The Montessori method emphasizes practical life skills as a crucial aspect of child development. Chores provide opportunities for children to learn independence, coordination, and responsibility. Montessori educators often introduce simple chores to toddlers and gradually increase complexity as the child grows.
Age-Appropriate Chores
Introducing Chores
Start early: Introduce age-appropriate chores gradually, starting with simple tasks.
Make it fun: Turn chores into games or sing songs while completing them.
Break down tasks: Divide larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
Provide positive reinforcement: Praise and encourage your child for their efforts.
Avoid power struggles: Focus on cooperation and avoid making chores feel like a punishment.
Parental Modeling
Lead by example: Children learn by observing. Demonstrate how to complete chores with enthusiasm and care.
Involve the whole family: Create a sense of teamwork by involving all family members in household responsibilities.
Make it a family affair: Discuss household chores together, assign responsibilities, and create a chore chart.
Frequency of Chores
The frequency of chores can vary depending on the child’s age, abilities, and the family’s schedule. Aim for consistency and gradually increase expectations as the child grows.
By involving children in household chores, parents can cultivate a sense of responsibility, independence, and self-worth. Remember to tailor the chores to your child’s age and abilities and make them enjoyable experiences for the whole family.
Play is fundamental to children’s growth and development. Through play, little ones explore the world around them and develop physical, mental, social and emotional skills.
Physical Development Through Play
When children play, their bodies become stronger and more coordinated. These movements are known as gross motor skills, fine motor skills and coordination. Gross motor skills include activities such as running, jumping and climbing, which help develop large muscles and improve balance. On the other hand, fine motor skills involve finger play, such as building with blocks or drawing, which encourage hand-eye coordination and dexterity. Finally, coordination combines different movements, children develop the coordination necessary to perform more complex tasks.
Music and Movement: A Powerful Combination
Music and movement are closely related, and both play a crucial role in child development.
Brain Development: Music stimulates both hemispheres of the brain, promoting learning and creativity.
Emotional development: Music evokes a wide range of emotions, helping children understand and express their feelings.
Social development: Music encourages social interaction, cooperation, and self-expression.
Physical development: Dancing and moving to music improves coordination, balance, and muscle strength.
Play is essential for children’s comprehensive development on a cognitive, social, and emotional level. By providing them with opportunities to play freely and creatively, we are fostering growth in all aspects. It is recommended to expose children to games that stimulate curiosity, imagination, and problem solving. Also, cooperative games, which teach children to share, take turns, and collaborate with others. Likewise, play allows them to safely express their emotions and learn to manage them.
Routines are the cornerstone of early childhood development. They provide a sense of security, predictability, and structure that is crucial for young children’s growth and well-being. This article delves into the significance of daily routines for infants and toddlers, exploring how parents and daycare providers can work together to support these routines and foster positive relationships.
According to Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, children develop their cognitive abilities through various experiences. Routines offer a consistent framework that allows children to explore and learn about their world.
They help children develop:
Social-emotional skills: Routines can help children develop important social skills, such as sharing, taking turns, and cooperating.
Predictability: Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and stress, allowing children to focus on learning and playing.
Independence: Routines can empower children to become more self-sufficient as they learn to anticipate and perform tasks independently.
Language development: Routines provide opportunities for children to hear and use language repeatedly, which can enhance their vocabulary and communication skills.
The Role of Parents and Daycare Providers
To ensure that daily routines are effective, parents and daycare providers must work together to create a consistent and supportive environment.
Parental Support for Daycare Providers:
Open Communication: Parents should maintain open and honest communication with daycare providers, sharing information about their child’s routines at home. This helps providers understand the child’s preferences and needs.
Consistent Routines: Parents should strive to maintain consistent routines at home, especially during mealtimes, nap times, and bedtime. This helps children transition smoothly between home and daycare.
Positive Reinforcement: Parents should praise their children for following routines and encourage them to express their feelings about the transition to daycare. Positive reinforcement can help alleviate any anxiety or resistance.
Daycare Provider Support for Parents:
Consistent Routines: Daycare providers should establish and maintain consistent routines within the classroom, such as mealtimes, nap times, and circle time. This helps children feel safe and secure in their new environment.
Open Communication: Providers should communicate regularly with parents, sharing updates about their child’s progress and addressing any concerns.
Transitional Objects: Encourage parents to provide a familiar object, such as a favorite toy or blanket, to help their child feel more comfortable during the transition to daycare.
Montessori-Inspired Approach: Consider incorporating elements of the Montessori method, which emphasizes independence, self-directed learning, and respect for the child. This can help children develop a sense of agency and control over their environment.
Building Positive Relationships
A strong and positive relationship between parents and daycare providers is essential for the well-being of the child. By working together, parents and providers can create a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes children’s growth and development.
Key Strategies for Building Positive Relationships:
Active Listening: Both parents and providers should actively listen to each other’s concerns and perspectives.
Respect and Empathy: Show respect for each other’s roles and responsibilities and try to understand each other’s point of view.
Collaboration: Work together to find solutions to challenges and support the child’s development.
Trust and Transparency: Build trust by being honest and open with each other.
By following these guidelines, parents and daycare providers can create a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters children’s growth, development, and well-being. Daily routines provide a solid foundation for children’s learning and development, and when parents and providers work together, they can ensure that these routines are effective and beneficial.
Food allergies in toddlers are an abnormal and often dangerous reaction of the immune system to certain foods. Although the exact cause of these allergies is not yet fully understood, it is common for children to outgrow them as they grow.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe and may appear quickly after consuming the offending food. Some of the most common symptoms include:
Every child is unique, and unique in the way they develop their skills and knowledge. Many children show that they are ready to potty train between 18 and 24 months. There are different ways to potty train children. The success of potty training will depend on physical, developmental and behavioral milestones, not age. However, others may not be ready until age 3. There is no rush, if you start too early, potty training may be delayed and that is where many parents get impatient.
To identify if your little one is ready to potty train, you can use the following key questions:
Can he walk and sit in the toilet?
Can he pull his pants down and pull them back up?
Can he stay dry for two hours?
Can he understand and follow basic directions?
Can he communicate when he needs to go to the bathroom?
Does he seem interested in using the toilet or big boy underwear?
If most of the answers are yes, your child may be ready. If not, he or she may want to wait, especially if there are other major changes, such as a move or the arrival of a new sibling.
Adult preparation is also vital. You should set aside your enthusiasm and allow your child’s motivation to direct the process. Try not to equate the success or difficulty of potty training with your child’s intelligence or stubbornness. Also, keep in mind that accidents are inevitable, and punishment has no role in the process. Plan potty training for when you have quality time to devote to the process and the energy to be consistent.
When it’s time to start potty training:
Choose your words. Decide what words you’re going to use for your child’s bodily fluids. Avoid negative words, such as dirty or stinky.
Prepare the equipment. Place a potty chair in the bathroom or, at first, wherever your child is spending most of his or her time. Encourage your child to sit on the potty with clothes on to start.
Make sure your child’s feet rest on the floor or stool. Use simple, positive terms to talk about the toilet. You could dump the contents of a soiled diaper into the potty and toilet to show your purpose. Have your child flush the toilet.
Schedule potty breaks. Have your child sit on the potty or toilet without a diaper for a few minutes at two-hour intervals, as well as first thing in the morning and right after naps. For boys, it’s often best to master sitting urination and then move on to standing after bowel training is complete. Many parents are alarmed when their potty-trained child is sitting up to do #1 – this is seen a lot with single moms because it’s what the child watches at home, and it’s okay – it’s just natural.
Stay with your child and read a book together or play with a toy while he or she is sitting. Allow your child to get up if he or she wants to. Even if your child just sits there, praise him or her for trying and remind him or her that he or she can try again later. Bring the potty with you when you are out and about with your child.
Use a watch. Time the intervals when your child is using the toilet – this will help with regular use, preventing accidents.
Go to the toilet quickly! When you notice signs that your child might need to go, such as squirming, squatting, or holding on to the genital area, respond quickly. Help your child become familiar with these signs by stopping what you are doing and going to the toilet. Praise your child for telling you when he or she needs to go. Keep your child in loose, easy-to-remove clothing.
Explain hygiene. Teach girls to spread their legs and wipe carefully from front to back to prevent germs from the rectum from reaching the vagina or bladder. Make sure your child washes his or her hands afterwards.
Ditch the diapers. Once potty training begins, replace diapers with cloth underwear. Remember that training pads have the same texture as diapers, so they could cause confusion.
After a couple of weeks of successful potty breaks and staying dry during the day, celebrate the transition. Let your child go back to diapers if he or she can’t stay dry. Consider using a sticker or star chart as positive reinforcement. If your child resists using the potty or toilet or isn’t getting the hang of it within a few weeks, take a break. Chances are, he or she isn’t ready yet. Pushing your child when he or she isn’t ready can lead to a frustrating power struggle. Try again in a few months.
Nighttime potty training
Naptime and bedtime training often take longer to achieve success. Most children can stay dry through the night between the ages of 5 and 7. In the meantime, wear disposable training pants and mattress covers when your child is sleeping.
How to deal with accidents?
Stay calm. Don’t punish or embarrass your child. You can say: You forgot this time, but next time go to the bathroom first.
Be prepared. Have a change of underwear and clothes on hand, especially at school or daycare.
When to seek assistance?
If your child seems ready for potty training but is having difficulty, talk to your pediatrician. He or she can provide guidance and check to see if there are any other problems affecting the potty-training process.
In Wisconsin, like many other cities, has seen an increase in respiratory viral infections among young children, especially with viruses like COVID-19, influenza, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). Health officials have noted elevated levels of respiratory disease activity based on data from emergency room visits, lab tests, and hospitalizations. It is important to follow prevention strategies, such as staying up to date on vaccinations, practicing good hygiene, and considering wearing masks in crowded settings (Wisconsin Department of Health Service).
RSV is a common virus that causes cold-like symptoms in most people, but can cause more severe illnesses in young children, especially those younger than six months. Symptoms of RSV include nasal congestion, cough, fever, and in some cases difficulty breathing. Parents should watch for signs such as difficulty breathing, dehydration (such as few wet diapers), and changes in their children’s interaction and alertness to decide when to seek medical care.
Influenza is also on the rise in the region, primarily affecting children and young adults. Vaccination is recommended for everyone over six months of age, as the vaccine takes about two weeks to offer full protection.
Prevention
• Vaccines: Make sure all family members over six months of age are up to date on influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness.
• Hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid Crowds: Limit time in crowded places, especially during seasons of high incidence of respiratory viruses.
• Use Masks: Consider wearing masks in closed, crowded spaces, especially if you have an infant or young child who cannot yet be vaccinated.
Common Symptoms of Viral Infections
• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): Can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, cough, fever, decreased energy, and in some cases, difficulty breathing.
• Influenza: Symptoms include fever, body aches, cough, nasal congestion, and in some children, vomiting and diarrhea.
• COVID-19: Like other respiratory viruses, it can cause fever, cough, nasal congestion, and in some cases, breathing difficulty.
When to Seek Medical Care
• Difficulty Breathing: If you notice your child is breathing faster, shallowly, or with a lot of effort (like skin sucking in between the ribs), seek immediate medical care.
• Inadequate Hydration: Children should have at least three wet diapers in 24 hours. If they are drinking less or showing signs of dehydration, see a doctor.
• Behavior Changes: If your child is less alert, not interacting, or showing fewer periods of play and activity, it is important to take him or her to a specialist.
Home Care
• Provide rest and keep your child well hydrated.
• Use fever and pain medications appropriate for children, but never give aspirin.
• Keep your child home and away from others to avoid spreading the illness.
How to Help Prevent the Spread
• Stay home if you or your child is sick.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a tissue or your elbow.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys, doorknobs, and tables.
For detailed and up-to-date information on viral illnesses in children, especially during the fall, you can consult the following reliable websites:
1. CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention): The CDC provides up-to-date information on viral infections such as influenza, RSV, and COVID-19. Their website offers prevention guidelines, symptoms, and specific recommendations for parents and caregivers.
2. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): AAP offers resources on children’s health, including specific information on viral illnesses in young children and recommendations for the fall and winter season.
3. Mayo Clinic: Mayo Clinic provides information on symptoms, treatments, and when to seek medical care for various viral infections affecting children.
4. Wisconsin Department of Health Services: This site offers information specific to Wisconsin residents, including public health alerts and resources on respiratory illnesses and prevention.
How can we talk to young children about differences and the importance of diversity?
From an early age, children begin to form their own ideas about the world and the people in it. It is essential to take advantage of these early years to sow the seeds of respect and tolerance. The exact age to start these conversations depends on each child’s development, but it is usually between 5 and 8 years old, when they are beginning to develop a greater awareness of themselves and others. Let’s start at home. Being aware of and respecting differences within the family is the first step. In preschool and daycare, we can teach children in simple and fun ways about diversity and inclusion. If we start from a young age, we will foster more tolerant and open-minded children.
Going deeper with activities
A practical activity is to help the child recognize themselves. We can use mirrors, books with different skin tones (such as “The skin you live in”), and materials such as construction paper, paints, and scissors. By creating self-portraits, children can express their opinions and share them with others. In addition, we can invite children to describe their feelings when looking in the mirror or creating their self-portrait. This personal reflection will help them better understand their own identity and value their unique characteristics.
Connecting with the real world
Diversity is an important topic and respect for others is essential. We must promote it in all areas, from education to work. Although it may seem difficult to teach this to young children, it is crucial to address topics such as different cultures and inclusion to create a fairer and more equitable world. We can relate these concepts to everyday examples, such as the diversity of foods we try, the different languages spoken around us or the different ways of celebrating holidays.
Benefits of teaching diversity
We live in an increasingly globalized and diverse world, so teaching children to live with different people is essential for their future. When we teach about diversity, we develop empathy, reduce prejudices, prepare the child for the future and help raise self-esteem. The differences of others are accepted, acceptance is encouraged, and stereotypes are diminished. Everyone feels valued and accepted in their individuality, cultivating a social environment of healthy integration.
Long-term benefits
Diversity is an important issue and respect for others is essential. We must promote it in all areas, from education to work. Although it may seem difficult to teach this to young children, it is crucial to address issues such as different cultures and inclusion to create a fairer and more equitable world. This has a positive impact on the economy and sustainable development. By teaching children to value diversity, we are preparing for future citizens who are more empathetic, tolerant and capable of building meaningful relationships with people from different backgrounds.
Contribution by Precious Moments Childcare, LLC.
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