Programs and Staff
Infant Care
The Center cares for up to 13 infants each day. Five newborns are in the nursery with two full-time and one part-time caregiver. While basic physical needs are met, infants are provided with stimulating toys and activities to encourage growth and development. When weather permits, infants enjoy playtime outside. Caregivers are knowledgeable of infant care and instill a sense of trust through warm and nurturing interactions.
Toddler Care
The Renaissance Child Care Center understands that toddlers are in a very dynamic stage of life. They are busy exploring their world, learning that they are separate from parents and caregivers, and learning language and toileting skills. The Center’s toddler care program emphasizes sensory play, gross-motor development, fine-motor development, and support in learning to play in groups. Three classrooms accommodate the Center’s toddlers. Twenty one-year-old toddlers are in two classrooms with three teachers in each and 14 two-year-old toddlers are in a third classroom with three teachers.
Preschool Care
The preschool program focuses on the development of social competence as well as cognitive skills by incorporating strategies from Relationship Roots and the High/Scope preschool curriculums. The center has three classrooms for three, four, and five-year-olds. One of these is designed as a Pre-K room to fully prepare children to be successful in Kindergarten. Another serves three- and four- year-olds, while the third is a transition classroom for older twos and young threes who may still be working on potty training but are otherwise ready for preschool. Preschoolers learn about the concept of a safe classroom and participate in class meetings when problems arise. Additional skills in problem-solving and conflict resolution are learned as elements from Relationship Roots are introduced by teachers.
Food Service
An on-site Food Services Coordinator prepares breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks. Menus are posted weekly in each classroom. Infants’ nutritional needs are met with formula and baby food. The Center participates in the USDA’s Child and Adult Care Feeding Program (CACFP). Through CACFP, meals for children are reimbursed at rates based on the child’s eligibility for free, reduced price, or paid meals. The Food Services Coordinator ensures that meals and snacks meet the USDA’s requirements for children’s nutrition.
Teachers and Staff
Many of the teachers and staff at the Renaissance Center have extensive backgrounds in early childhood education and all are selected based on their dedication to the developmental and educational needs of children. Most teachers hold Colorado Early Childhood Professional Credentials. As part of the Center’s commitment to its employees, it sets aside regular opportunities for staff development, training, and meetings to promote job satisfaction and retention.