EARLY CHILDHOODBasics toddlergarden
The Basics Toddler Gardens are outdoor areas where children and their caregivers can go to play, explore, and learn together in a child-friendly, natural setting.
FIVE BASIC PRINCIPLES
in the Grove at Severson Dells
EXPLORE THE BASICS
The Basics Principles are five fun, simple and powerful ways to help all our children get a strong start in life. When parents and caregivers Maximize Love and Manage Stress, they care for themselves and create safety for their child, fostering healthy brain development and growth. When they Talk, Sing, and Point or Count, Group, and Compare they are equipping their child’s brain with the right tools to learn with later. Exploring through Movement and Play and Reading and Discussing Stories are wonderful ways to learn about the world around us while fostering healthy bonding through shared discovery.
Our Basics Garden in the Grove at Severson Dells extends the Basics Principles through hands-on activities. Have fun exploring each area to see how to use the Basics every day with your child.
Maximize Love and Manage Stress
Infants and toddlers thrive when their world feels loving, safe, and predictable.Feeling secure in their relationships gives them confidence to explore their surroundings and cope with challenges.
Talk, Sing, and Point
Babies are learning language from before birth. Every time you talk, sing, or point to what you are talking about, you help your child learn about their world..
Count, Group, and Compare
Everyone is born able to be a “math person.” Even babies can do simple math, such as noticing amounts and patterns. Toddlers love learning through games and fun activities.
Explore Through Movement and Play
There are many different kinds of play. Through movement and play, children explore and learn about the world.
Read and Discuss Stories
It is never too early to start reading to your child—even babies enjoy and benefit from it! Reading aloud is one of the most important things you can do to prepare your child for school.
Learn more about the Basics and other resources available to you at Alignment Rockford
ALIGNMENT ROCKFORD
READY TO LEARN EARLY CHILDHOOD
By supporting parents and caregivers, the Ready to Learn Movement is creating a stronger foundation for young children to succeed. Learn more about how we are making a difference
SUPPORT EARLY CHILDHOOD
WHAT IS READY TO LEARN?
Ready to Learn is a community-wide early childhood initiative comprised of organizations, businesses, and individuals. To learn more about our partnerships, visit our Partners and Sponsors page.
HOW DO I GET INVOLVED?
Be a part of the Ready to Learn Initiative! Host a Ready to Learn Space, become a facilitator for family classes, or help us reach more families!
HOW CAN I SUPPORT?
DONATE! Research shows the return on investment for early childhood is higher than any other age group. For every dollar invested in early childhood, $13 is saved in intervention.