Introduction to Module III: Facilitating Learning in Infants
A PITC Training Session

Format: Large group (80 - 120), 1 hour session; lecture, video, discussion.

This session introduces Module III by giving an overview of brain development, early learning, and appropriate curriculum planning for infants and toddlers. Participants watch the DVD The Next Step: Including the Infant in the Curriculum, which presents four domains of the infant’s curriculum: physical development, social relationships, language development, and intellectual development. The PITC’s view of infants as active, self-motivated learners is explained. The perspective that is presented can be summed up in the following way: “All children are born wired for feelings and ready to learn” when provided nurturing relationships and a peaceful but engaging environment. In addition to focusing on the infant’s curriculum, the DVD illustrates three strategies that infant care teachers can use to support early learning: adapt, support practice and repetition, and expand learning.

Related Module(s):
III Learning and Development

Related Resources:
Article Following a Child's Lead Emergent Curriculum for Infants and Toddlers
Article Supporting Families of Children with Disabilities in Inclusive Programs A Team Approach
Article The Uniqueness of Infancy Demands a Responsive Approach to Care
Guide Infant/Toddler Caregiving: A Guide to Cognitive Development and Learning
Guide Infant/Toddler Caregiving: A Guide to Language Development and Communication
Handout Core Concepts of Development from From Neurons to Neighborhoods: The Science of Early Childhood Development
Handout Curriculum and Lesson Planning: A Responsive Approach
Handout Infants have their own curriculum: A responsive approach to curriculum planning for infants and toddlers
Handout Uniqueness of the Infant and Toddler Period
Handout Video Outline - The Next Step: Including the Infant in the Curriculum
Manual Trainer's Manual Module III: Learning and Development
PowerPoint Introduction to Module III- PowerPoint Presentation
DVD The Next Step: Including the Infant in the Curriculum
DVD Booklet The Next Step: Including the Infant in the Curriculum