(a) The center shall develop and provide a variety of children's planned activities, geared to the ages and developmental levels of the children served, that: 1. Promote the development of language, thinking and problem-solving skills, curiosity, exploration, large and small muscles, coordination and movement skills, social competence, self-esteem, and positive self-identity; and 2. Are relevant to the cultural background of the children and foster intercultural awareness. (b) 1. Time frames for each activity are geared to the age and developmental level of each child served and are flexible enough to accommodate spontaneous occurrences or children's suggestions and inquiries; 2. Children have opportunities to choose materials freely and materials are accessible at all times except during lunch and nap time; 3. Children are presented with and encouraged to participate in a mixture of active and quiet experiences; 4. Both staff-directed and child-selected activities are provided; 5. Children are: i. Encouraged, but not required, to participate in every group activity; and ii. Provided with the time and space within the area to be apart from the group and to participate in an alternate activity if they choose to do so;
Ensure that children's activities are accessible to the children in the Toddler Room at all times except during meals and rest time.