Limits & Boundaries in the Infant/Toddler Classroom

Infants and toddlers are naturally curious and want to know everything about the world. They do not understand that the diaper cream should not go in the mouth or the window is on the second story and it is not safe to lean on the screen. They are spontaneous and will do things just to see what happens. Setting limits and boundaries is essential in an infant and toddler room for their basic well-being.

  1. Make It About Safety

    • Safeguard the room where the infants and toddlers are playing. When a safety gate is used, the infant or toddler receives a visual boundary for his own safety. Be sure to use gates that will withstand infants pulling themselves up or toddlers shaking the gate. Set limits such as allowing toddlers to only run outside or in designated areas inside. Toddlers are not fundamentally aware of those around them so they will run into each other simply because they are too caught up in personal activities to notice others. Placing limits on running will increase their safety.

    Using Redirection

    • Babies and toddlers are easily distracted and can be diverted from negative behaviors by using redirection. When a baby has overstepped her limits, such as attempting to tip over the trash can or climbing on high chairs, move the baby away from her area of interest and distract her with a favorite toy or activity. Toddlers, though harder to deter, may also be diverted in this manner. Use redirection to communicate boundaries with infants and toddlers who are not yet old enough to understand spoken rules.

    Use Positive Reinforcement

    • When a toddler or infant acts within the parameters of the limits, congratulate the child with positive words. If a toddler class needs to hold a hand or stroller while proceeding to the outside play area, congratulate those who willingly complete the act. Use an upbeat voice and let the child know you are excited for her good decision. Boundaries such as walking instead of running may be congratulated, and laying down immediately for nap or attempting to use a fork and spoon for self feeding in an infant room will receive positive words.

    Provide Structure

    • Infants and toddlers will grow bored and begin to violate boundaries without structure. Providing a structured daily schedule will help infants and toddlers realize what comes next and will help them maintain boundaries. If children are only supposed to sit at food tables during lunch time, then holding the same type of daily activity before lunch will signal to infants and toddlers that lunch is next and they will not bother the tables until mealtime. Without structures, infants and toddlers will find ways to amuse themselves, and that may involve tipping high chairs or dangerously climbing on tables.

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