Infant Classroom – The Ocean Room (6wks – 12 months)
We realize that young infants thrive on the warmth and caring from a close relationship with caregivers. This security prompts infants to explore and begin to shape their identity. It is important for babies to create bonds with caregivers and for the caregiver to become extremely in–tune with the baby’s needs. Our staff have many years experience working with infants and are very dedicated to getting to know each infant individually to exceed their needs.
A baby’s brain is a work in progress. The outside world shapes its development through experiences that a child’s senses — vision, hearing, smell, touch and taste — absorb. The development of a child’s brain holds the key to the child’s future. Our teachers use touching, talking, reading, smiling, singing, counting and playing with children will help a child’s brain develop and nourishes the child’s potential for a lifetime.
Daily reports are provided to parents on each day went. We feel it is extremely important for parents to be able to closely track feedings, nap times and diapering schedule for infants.
Infant Room Daily Guide: (Click Here)
What to bring for your infant:
The Academy provides a crib for each child.
We ask you to bring the following:
– bedding bag- crib sheet, blanket and lovie (bag will be returned at the end of each week to be cleaned),
– 2-3 clean changes of clothing (weather appropriate),
– diapers and wipes
– pacifier (as needed)
– bottles
– milk (formula or breastmilk- enough for the day/week)
– older infants: baby food (purees, finger foods)
Lead Teacher – Ocean Room
I graduated from Rivier College in Nashua, New Hampshire in 2008 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development/Early Childhood Education/Special Education. During my time at Rivier College, I worked with children between the ages of birth and 3rd grade.
Establishing a relationship of trust is the most important tool we can use to enhance growth and development of our infants! We do that through exceeding the babies’ needs by showing them that we are there for them, to nurture, comfort, play and learn!
I had 3 years experience in an infant classroom in Manchester, NH before starting at The Academy 7 years ago.
Co-Lead Teacher – Ocean Room
I moved to Maine in 2022 from Massachusetts and have been working at The Academy since! I have a dual degree from UNH in Psychology & Educational Studies. I have always had a passion for working with children and love the toddler age group!
I plan on returning to school for my Master’s in Education at some point. For now, I’m enjoying being outside, reading and baking in my free time! I’m so appreciative of the opportunity to be a part of your toddler’s life!
Co-Teacher – Ocean Toom
I have worked at The Academy since 2019! I first started here as a floater before quickly moving into the lead teacher position in the Farm room where I resided for 3 years. I then moved into a more supervisory role, and looked over things throughout the center. In 2023, I decided on new career path. I started Aesthetician school and became fully licensed. I now own my own studio salon in Westbrook, but love being at The Academy as well. This place gives me such a place of comfort and feels like home. I am now here part time, working in The Ocean room! I love being able to split my time doing two things I love! Caring and watching the babies grow and learn new things daily, is such an amazing experience!