At the Program for Infant/Toddler Care (PITC), we consider a relationship-based approach to caring for infants and toddlers essential. PITC believes responsive, respectful care in a relationship is key for supporting early learning, rather than developing lessons for infants to master. Adults who implement the PITC find ways to allow for, expand, adapt, and encourage infants' efforts to pursue their inborn learning agenda.
To support implementation of PITC, we provide professional development and resources to the early childhood education community.
At the heart of the Program for Infant/Toddler Care (PITC) is a commitment to care for infants and toddlers that respects the diverse cultures, lifestyles, preferences, abilities, learning styles, and needs of the children and families served.
PITC promotes relationship-based care through six essential program policies: Primary Care, Small Groups, Continuity of Care, Individualized Care, Culturally Responsive Care, and Inclusive Care.
When followed, our approach to infant and toddler care fosters:
- Care in safe, engaging and intimate settings
- Children having time and opportunity to establish and sustain secure and trusting relationships with infant care teachers and other children
- Development of knowledgeable infant care teachers who are responsive to children's needs and interests