Infants and Toddlers

Acorns (The Nursery, full-time only)

Acorns are what we call our infants and toddlers in the Junior Gathering Program. Click the links in the menu below to learn about this group.

• Infant Daily Routine
• Toddler Daily Routine

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• Preparation
• What to Bring
• Typical Day   
• Toddler or Preschooler?
• Open House

​Resources for more information:

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Letter from the Acorn leaders 2017

Junior Gathering Times, Summer 2017  - Our newsletter for families with children (last summer's edition)

Winter Junior Gathering Times, February 2017  

Archives:

Junior Gathering Times, June 2016      Junior Gathering Times, June 2015 

 Infant Daily Routine

The youngest among us spend their mornings pretty much as they would if they were at home. Our experienced staff will see to it that each child's needs are met on the schedule that works best for that family. Feeding, diapering, napping, nurturing and comforting make up the bulk of the morning and evening. We strive for a 1:1 child to care-giver ratio for those under one year of age.

While we provide care in the evenings, some families choose to have an earlier bedtime or to keep their little ones with them during their evening activities.

Click here for a typical day’s schedule.

Toddler Daily Routine 

Toddlers have a 2:1 child to caregiver ratio and spend their mornings in a variety of spirited indoor and outdoor activities, such as water play, ball play, and tricycle (car, fire engine!) riding. While indoors toddlers will sing songs, hear stories, and play together.

Toddlers partake in a simple snack.  Please indicate on your Parental Release Form any specific dietary needs so we can plan to meet those needs.  Any toddlers who still take a morning nap will be accommodated.

While we provide care in the evenings, some families choose to have an earlier bedtime or to keep their little ones with them during their evening activities.

Click here for a typical day’s schedule.

Preparation 

Help us prepare to give your child the best possible week by sharing with us:

• joys
• struggles
• achievements
• challenges and/or
• recent significant changes in your child's life.

Indicate these on your Parental Release form or by email to [email protected].  You can rest assured that your child is being cared for lovingly as you attend your morning workshop or evening plenary.

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Carefully read your confirmation email and the electronic mailing from Junior Gathering in early June. (Junior Gathering Times & a letter from your child’s group leader)

After April 1, 2018 check out the Junior Gathering FAQs on our website.

You may wish to connect with other parents who have gone to Gathering before.

What to Bring

•  Pack for your child:
  • Stroller
  • Bathing suit
  • Towel
  • Sunscreen (fragrance free)
  • Sun hat
  • Insect Repellent (if you use it)
  • Change of clothes in case we get dirty
  • Diaper Bag
  • Necessary items (sippy cup, blanket, diapers, etc.)
  • Special toy/game/book/CD  for comfort (optional)
  • Photo of your child (Bring to Open House)
• Label all things with your child’s name.
• You may wish to bring a portable crib or playpen for your dorm room.   

A typical family day:

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   5:00-6:30 PM Dinner   

What's the difference between Toddlers and Preschoolers? Or how do you tell an Acorn from a Pinecone?

We will rely heavily on your opinion for determining whether your child is a Toddler or a Preschooler. Typically the preschool group will be doing activities that require more small and large motor skills, a longer attention span, and more interaction with other children. Pinecones are usually 3 to 5 year olds, while Toddlers are 2 and 3 year olds.  If you have a question, please contact the Junior Gathering Coordinator.

Open House: Sunday evening after dinner for all children up to those who have finished 5th grade ( Acorns, Pinecones, Sprouts, Saplings & Pinetrees). This is a time for you and your child to come and get acquainted with the caregivers / staff and the other children. Coordinators will discuss their plans and expectations for the week. Parents and/or Responsible Parties will be asked to list those adults who have permission to sign out their child. If permission has not been granted, your child will not be released. Open House is a good time to share dietary or other needs with the Group Coordinator, particularly if you forgot to share them ahead of time.

Help us prepare to give your child the best possible week by sharing with us dietary needs, joys, struggles, achievements, challenges and/or recent significant changes in your child's life. You can indicate these on your Parental Release form or by email to [email protected]

Updated February 24, 2018