The Infant-Toddler Development Center in San Antonio provides support for teen parents and student assistants caring for children aged birth to three years. Orientation includes training on child development, health, and safety, emphasizing respectful interactions with children. The program fosters a supportive environment for teen parents, encouraging their educational growth and providing resources to aid in effective parenting.

1. Infant-Toddler Development Center San Antonio High School Teen Parent Program Orientation Handbook for student assistants

2. Welcome! We hope that while in child care you will be able to get in touch with your inner child. We ask that you respect & honor yourself & each child in our care.

3. Infant Toddler Center Staffed by three paid caregivers. Includes teen parents & student assistants. Serves children birth to three years old.

4. Working with Children Take time to get comfortable in your new surroundings. We don’t expect you to start working with children immediately.

5. We feel that it is a privilege to be able to interact with our babies. We expect that you always treat them in a respectful manner. We ask that you always use appropriate language while in childcare.

6. Orientation Before you start working with the babies, you will view videos and read some articles that will explain our philosophy.

7. Child Development Class Child development classes are available on campus. It’s a great way to understand how you can help babies and toddlers to learn and grow.

8. Hands-on learning provides young children with: Sensory integration Tactile experiences Motor coordination

9. A language and literacy-rich environment supports learning.

10. Nurturing relationships enhance social-emotional development.

11. Health & Safety For the health and safety of all, follow these guidelines in the childcare center.

12. Hand Washing Wash your hands every time you: Enter child care Eat, cough, sneeze Use the bathroom Wipe a child’s nose

13. Feeding Wash children’s hands before and after feeding, and put on their bibs. Make sure to secure the high chair trays. Sit and talk with, or read a book to children during feeding times.

14. You are Important We ask that your demeanor throughout the campus be consistent with your behavior in child care. Staff will periodically ask you and your teachers how you are doing.

15. What students say about the Teen Parent Program: “ I get to meet other teen moms in the same situation. It’s a special bond we develop – different from meeting moms at a playground.” 17 year-old mother of a baby boy

16. “ The teen parent program provides a homey atmosphere and welcoming environment that encourages the parents to come every day. The opportunities provided are unlimited. The resources are there. It’s just up to us to use them.” -- 17 year-old mother of a baby boy

17. “The staff teach you how to be a good parent and how to educate your child. Before, I didn’t know how to hold a baby. Now I’ve learned how to act with a child: how to talk to them and ask what they want.” --18 year-old father of a toddler

18. Path to Success Pregnancy is the greatest cause of dropping out of high school for female students. * We support pregnant and parenting teens to complete their high school education & beyond! *Educational Equity Compliance

19. Thank you! Gracias! We look forward to you joining our child care family. Thank you for all that you contribute! Please ask child care staff if you have any questions.