Building Independence, Confidence & Healthy Habits

Child self-development is an important part of our early childhood education program. Across our Connecticut child care centers, we help children build confidence, develop independence, and establish healthy habits through everyday learning experiences.

From practicing self-help skills and positive social interactions to learning healthy routines in a safe, nurturing environment, our Teachers encourage children to grow at their own pace while developing the skills they need to succeed. These milestones look different at every age, from our Infant Program and Young Toddler Program to our Toddler Program and Preschool Program.

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Helping Children Help Themselves

As children begin mastering everyday self-care and self-help skills, they develop independence, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment. Our Teachers gently guide children as they begin to show interest in performing these tasks, giving them the time, encouragement, and space to learn at their own pace.

Everyday routines become valuable learning opportunities that help children build independence, responsibility, and confidence.

Toddler Toilet Training

Our toilet training program is an important developmental milestone, and we partner with families to support each child’s readiness. Children are encouraged to sit and attempt using the toilet during regular diaper changing times, but we never force a child to use the toilet because every child becomes ready at their own pace.

Positive Behavior Support

We present children with developmentally appropriate, clear expectations for behavior. Conflict resolution and behavior redirection are communicated calmly and respectfully while encouraging good manners, kindness, and positive interactions with classmates and Teachers.

Character development looks different at every stage, so we are committed to supporting each individual child while helping them build the social and emotional skills they need to become thoughtful, compassionate members of their community.

WE KEEP IT POSITIVE!

  • Positive reinforcement builds self-esteem and confidence.
    “Alex, you did a great job putting those blocks away. They’re shelved neatly. Well done!”
  • Role modeling allows children to observe appropriate conflict resolution strategies.
    “Taylor, watch and listen how I apologize to Sean and then you can try: ‘I’m sorry I spilled your juice, Sean. It was an accident. Could I help you wipe the table?”
  • Redirection of energy offers and encourages alternative communication methods.
    “Let’s go for a walk together around the playground while we talk about what happened.”
  • Communication offers examples of good conduct through conversation and gentle reminders.
    “There’s a nicer way to say that, Jordan. Could you try again? Remember how we practiced yesterday?”
  • Praising children for good conduct, following rules, being polite, and cooperating makes those desirable behaviors more likely to reoccur.
    “Yes, of course you can have another graham cracker. That was a great way to ask. You’re so polite!”
  • Calm Down Time offers children space to process and gain control of their feelings and body. Teachers may instruct a child to go to a quiet area of the room, explaining to the child that this is an opportunity to calm down. The teacher and child may make a shared decision to return to the group or classroom when the child is ready to behave appropriately and safely.
    “You might feel upset right now, which is understandable. Let’s walk over to the carpet, where you can take deep breaths. Raise your hand when you’re ready to join the group again, and I’ll come back over.”

Cleanliness & Wellness

Creating a healthy environment is an important part of helping children learn, grow, and thrive. At Bright Years Academy, our health and safety practices support children’s well-being while giving families peace of mind.

Our Connecticut child care centers are professionally cleaned and sanitized after hours using safe, non-toxic cleaning products. Throughout the day, toys and frequently touched surfaces are disinfected regularly, diapering takes place in designated classroom areas, and Teachers model healthy hygiene habits through regular handwashing.

Children’s Wellness

Our Teachers carefully monitor children throughout the day for signs of illness, helping maintain a healthy learning environment. If a child becomes ill, families are notified promptly so they can receive the care they need while helping minimize the spread of illness.

We also encourage families to keep children home when they aren’t feeling well and increase these efforts during cold and flu season.

Medications

We work closely with families to help ensure medications are administered safely and according to each child’s care plan.

Because every child’s needs are unique, families are encouraged to discuss medication requirements with their center. This includes individualized plans for emergency medications such as EpiPens when needed.

Looking for more information?

Visit our FAQ page for answers to common questions about our child care programs, enrollment, tuition, health and safety, and daily routines.

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