Growth and development is a constant change in the infant room, which requires the educators to stay on top of the needs as they grow into busy toddlers. Challenging the development to see just how far they will go. Often times we will bring in obstacles that allow the group of infants we have set their own limitations and risks. This time Tami had set the slide up not on a shelf, but on a stool which had them deciding to climb up or not. Adrian was not shy when it came to this activity showing his educators he could climb and slide down with ease. Building his large leg muscles and confidence with every turn. When Diya arrived, she was excited to see the slide and came running into the classroom yelling “mine”, as she climbed the steps and went down the slide. Later we added to the risk taking and created our own balance beam. Again, providing choice to everyone who wanted to sit, stand, climb, walk or jump. As educators we are there to foster their growing abilities as we support the infants as well as to mitigate the possible risks involved as they engage in risky play, further developing their awareness of risk. The educators position themselves close to the action, however were not anticipating the level risk, as Diya and Adrian attempted to walk off the edge of the balance beam. With quick hands, the educators were able to prevent a fall from occurring and provided them different options building on their independence and allowing them to figure out how to move their bodies in a way that was safe for everyone.
