What should the guide know about your baby?
Before the first day, share how your baby usually shows hunger and tiredness, how feeds and naps have been going, and any questions you want the guide to keep in mind. Those details help an adult respond to this baby, not a generic schedule. Ask how the provider handles changes during the day and what they need from you in writing.
In Virginia Montessori Academy’s Olive infant room, for ages eight weeks to 16 months, our guides follow each baby’s own feed and nap rhythm. They talk with babies during one-to-one care and offer floor space and materials for movement and exploration. We share care logs and app updates with families.
What should you pack and label for infant care?
Our school asks parents to bring labeled bottles and their baby’s milk or food, plus diapers and wipes. We provide crib sheets and sleep sacks. Before the start date, check with the school about quantities and how to label each item; needs change as babies grow. If another adult handles pickup, confirm the school’s authorized-pickup process with the team.
How can you make the first handoff useful?
At drop-off, tell the guide when your baby last ate or slept and anything unusual that morning. At pickup, ask what helped your baby settle, how feeding and rest went, and what you should bring or share tomorrow. You can contact the school ahead of time if you are unsure about supplies or handoff details.
Every baby and family takes its own time getting used to a new routine. A plan that helps is to keep the conversation open and adjust what you share as the guides get to know your child.
See the infant room before your baby starts
If you are still choosing care, book a tour of our Purcellville school. You can see the Olive room, meet guides and ask how we would follow your baby’s day.