At Meadowlark Schools, we understand that the first three years of life represent a period of extraordinary development. Our infant and toddler programs provide nurturing care, responsive relationships, and enriching experiences that support your child's unique developmental journey.

Gentle, Responsive Care in a Nature-Connected Environment

Opening fall 2025 in North Stockton, our infant and toddler programs will create a warm, secure foundation where your child can explore, discover, and thrive during these formative early years.

Join Our Interest List or Schedule an Information Session

Our Approach to Infant and Toddler Care

The Meadowlark approach to infant and toddler care is built on a deep understanding of early development and a profound respect for each child as a capable, curious learner from birth.

Responsive, Relationship-Based Care

We believe that secure attachment relationships form the foundation for healthy development. Our approach emphasizes:

• Consistent primary caregivers who build deep connections with each child
• Responsive interactions that honor children's cues and communication
• Individualized care routines that respect each child's unique rhythms and needs
• Warm, nurturing environments that feel like an extension of home
• Partnership with families to ensure continuity between home and school

Nature Connection from the Beginning

Even our youngest children benefit from connection with the natural world. Our infant and toddler programs incorporate:

• Natural materials that provide rich sensory experiences
• Daily outdoor time in specially designed natural spaces
• Exposure to fresh air, natural light, and changing seasons
• Introduction to plants, gentle animals, and natural elements
• A sense of wonder and curiosity about the world

Unhurried Time for Development

We respect each child's individual developmental timeline, allowing for:

• Self-directed exploration at each child's own pace
• Freedom of movement to develop motor skills naturally
• Time to process experiences and integrate learning
• Space to practice emerging skills without pressure
• Joy in the journey rather than rush toward milestones

Infant Program (6 weeks - 18 months)

Our infant program creates a nurturing "nest" where babies can feel secure while gradually expanding their exploration of the world.

A Home-Like Environment

Our thoughtfully designed infant spaces include:

• Soft, natural materials and calming colors
• Comfortable spaces for feeding, cuddling, and connection
• Open floor space for freedom of movement
• Low, accessible shelves with carefully selected materials
• Dedicated spaces for rest according to each baby's schedule
• Separate areas for mobile and non-mobile infants

Daily Rhythms and Routines

While each infant's schedule is respected, our days generally flow through:

• Arrival and greeting rituals that ease transitions
• Responsive care routines (feeding, diapering, napping)
• Floor time for movement and exploration
• Sensory experiences with natural materials
• Outdoor time in our protected infant garden
• One-on-one interactions with caregivers
• Small group experiences as developmentally appropriate

Supporting Developmental Milestones

Our infant program nurtures development across all domains:

• Physical: Freedom of movement, tummy time, reaching and grasping opportunities
• Cognitive: Novel objects to explore, cause-and-effect toys, hiding games
• Language: Rich verbal interactions, songs, books, and responsive communication
• Social-Emotional: Secure attachment, emotional co-regulation, positive relationships

Teacher-to-Child Ratios

Our infant program maintains low ratios that exceed state requirements, ensuring each baby receives abundant individual attention and responsive care.

Toddler Program (18 months - 3 years)

Our toddler program celebrates this unique stage of development, honoring toddlers' growing independence, emerging language, and passionate curiosity about the world.

A World to Explore

Our toddler environments balance security with appropriate challenge:

• Defined areas for different types of play and exploration
• Materials that encourage problem-solving and creativity
• Child-sized furniture and equipment that support independence
• Comfortable spaces for gathering, stories, and connection
• Access to art, sensory, and natural materials
• Safe challenges that build confidence and competence

Daily Rhythm

Our toddler program provides the right balance of predictability and flexibility, following a natural flow that respects children's needs while providing a secure, consistent framework:

• Morning Arrival: Welcoming rituals and free exploration as children transition into the day
• Morning Gathering: Brief circle time with songs, movement, and connection to build community
• Indoor Exploration: Child-directed play in learning centers with teacher support
• Morning Snack: Family-style nutritious snacks that encourage independence and social skills
• Extended Outdoor Time: Significant time in our toddler garden for exploration and physical activity
• Lunch: Family-style meals with teacher support for developing self-help skills
• Rest Time: Individual rest periods based on each child's needs and rhythms
• Afternoon Activities: Quiet activities as children wake gradually from rest
• Second Outdoor Period: Additional nature connection and physical activity
• Closing Gathering and Departure: Gentle transitions and preparation for reuniting with families

Supporting Key Developmental Processes

Our toddler program is designed to support the critical developmental tasks of this age:

• Developing autonomy and independence: "Me do it" opportunities throughout the day
• Language explosion: Rich vocabulary, conversations, stories, and songs
• Emotional regulation: Supportive adults who help name and navigate big feelings
• Social awareness: Gentle guidance in peer interactions and early friendship skills
• Cognitive development: Problem-solving opportunities and conceptual exploration
• Physical mastery: Opportunities to run, climb, jump, dance, and develop fine motor skills

Teacher-to-Child Ratios

Our toddler program maintains low ratios that exceed state requirements, ensuring each child receives individual attention while building the skills for successful group participation.

Supporting Key Developmental Milestones

Our North Stockton infant and toddler programs are designed to support children through the remarkable progression of development during the first three years of life.

Physical Development Milestones

We support physical development by providing:

• Open spaces for unrestricted movement
• Appropriate challenges for crawling, walking, climbing, and balancing
• Fine motor activities like stacking, sorting, and early art experiences
• Sensory exploration opportunities
• Outdoor experiences on varied natural terrain
• Freedom to practice emerging skills at each child's own pace

Cognitive Development Milestones

We nurture cognitive growth through:

• Open-ended materials with multiple possibilities
• Cause-and-effect exploration
• Problem-solving opportunities
• Conceptual learning through concrete experiences
• Memory games and activities
• Early mathematical thinking (sorting, matching, patterns)
• Scientific exploration (observation, prediction, experimentation)

Language Development Milestones

We support language acquisition through:

• Rich conversations throughout the day
• Responsive interactions that build turn-taking skills
• Songs, fingerplays, and movement games
• Quality children's literature read daily
• Vocabulary development in meaningful contexts
• Support for both expressive and receptive language
• Respect for home languages while introducing English

Social-Emotional Development Milestones

We nurture emotional health through:

• Secure attachment relationships with teachers
• Support for emerging self-awareness and identity
• Guidance with emotional regulation
• Opportunities for appropriate independence
• Positive peer interactions
• Development of empathy and prosocial behavior
• Foundations for self-confidence and resilience

Our North Stockton Facilities

Our purpose-designed North Stockton campus will feature specially created spaces for infants and toddlers that support their unique developmental needs.

Indoor Environments

Our indoor spaces are thoughtfully designed with:

• Natural light and materials
• Non-toxic furnishings and supplies
• Separate, secure areas for different age groups
• Soft, washable surfaces
• Appropriate acoustics to maintain calm
• Visibility for supervision while allowing exploration
• Accessible materials that encourage independence

Outdoor Spaces for Our Youngest Children

Our infant and toddler outdoor areas include:

• Protected spaces for non-mobile infants to experience nature
• Sensory gardens with safe plants to touch and smell
• Water features for supervised exploration
• Natural elements like sand, grass, and varied ground coverings
• Small hills and pathways for developing gross motor skills
• Shade structures for comfort in various weather
• Age-appropriate risk-taking opportunities

Safety and Security

The safety of our children is our highest priority:

• Secure entry systems
• Comprehensive health and safety protocols
• Regular environmental assessments
• Staff trained in infant/child CPR and first aid
• Careful supervision with appropriate ratios
• Thorough cleaning and sanitizing procedures

North Stockton Location Advantages

Our North Stockton location provides:

• Convenient access for North Stockton families
• Proximity to major employers and residential neighborhoods
• Ample parking for safe drop-off and pick-up
• A peaceful setting away from major traffic
• Connection to natural areas within the urban environment

Partnership with Families

We believe that the relationship between home and school is essential for optimal development, especially for infants and toddlers.

Communication Systems

We maintain open, transparent communication through:

• Daily reports on feeding, sleeping, and diapering for infants
• Regular updates on experiences and discoveries
• Digital documentation of learning and development
• Photos and videos of your child's day
• Face-to-face conversations at drop-off and pick-up
• Parent-teacher conferences twice yearly
• Access to teachers via phone or email for questions

Family Involvement

We welcome family participation through:

• Open-door policy for visits throughout the day
• Opportunities to share family traditions and culture
• Parent education events about child development
• Family social gatherings
• Volunteer opportunities appropriate to your schedule
• Input into program planning and development

Supporting Transitions

We provide thoughtful support for transitions:

• Gradual entry schedule for new children
• Individualized transition plans between program levels
• Detailed information sharing during transitions
• Familiar teachers who move up with children when possible
• Visiting opportunities before transitions occur

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Meadowlark's infant and toddler programs different from other childcare options?

Our program stands out through our nature-based approach, low teacher-to-child ratios, emphasis on primary caregiving relationships, and thoughtful environments using natural materials. Unlike many traditional childcare centers, we view infants and toddlers as capable, curious learners deserving of beautiful spaces, engaging materials, and responsive care that honors their unique development.

How do you handle feeding, sleeping, and diapering routines?

We follow each child's individual rhythms and family preferences, especially for infants. Parents and teachers work together to establish consistent routines that honor the child's needs. We practice respectful caregiving during these intimate routines, treating them as important opportunities for connection rather than just tasks to complete.

How do you manage separation anxiety?

Separation is handled gently and gradually. We recommend a phased entry schedule when possible, allowing children and parents to build comfort with teachers before full separations occur. Each child and family receives an individualized transition plan based on their specific needs and circumstances.

What health and safety protocols do you follow?

Our comprehensive health and safety protocols exceed licensing requirements and include secure entry systems, strict sign-in/out procedures, regular safety training for staff, appropriate supervision at all times, thorough cleaning and sanitizing routines, and adherence to all health guidelines for early childhood settings.

Do you accept infants and toddlers who use cloth diapers?

Yes, we support families' choices regarding diapering. If you use cloth diapers at home, we're happy to continue this practice at school. We simply ask that you provide appropriate supplies and clear instructions.

How do you support breastfeeding mothers?

We enthusiastically support breastfeeding by providing comfortable spaces for nursing mothers who wish to visit during the day, proper storage of expressed milk, and flexible schedules to accommodate feeding preferences. Our staff receives training on proper handling and storage of breast milk.

Join Our North Stockton Infant and Toddler Program

We invite you to become part of our founding North Stockton community as we prepare to open in fall 2025. Our infant and toddler programs will provide the nurturing care, engaging experiences, and responsive relationships that support your child's development during these critical early years.

Spaces in our infant and toddler programs will be limited to ensure the highest quality experience for each child. We encourage interested families to join our interest list early to receive priority notification when enrollment opens.

Join Our North Stockton Interest List or Schedule an Information Session