Our Philosophy
Casa Feliz is influenced by R.I.E philosophy and is in the process of developing our own unique philosophy!
Here are some links that help influence Casa Feliz: https://www.rie.org/ & https://www.janetlansbury.com/
“Infancy is a vulnerable stage of development, therefore, it’s not enough that babies receive good care, the care must be excellent.” – Magda Gerber
When caring for our infants, Casa Feliz caregivers follow the RIE®’s Seven Basic Principles:
Our goal: An Authentic Child
An authentic child is one who feels secure, autonomous, competent, and connected.
When we help a child to feel secure, feel appreciated, feel that “somebody is deeply, truly interested in me,” by the way we just look, the way we just listen, we influence that child’s whole personality and the way they see life.
Trust in the Infant’s Competence
We have basic trust in the infant to be an initiator and explorer; eager to learn what he/she is ready for. Because of this trust, we provide the infant with only enough help necessary to allow the child to enjoy mastery of their own actions.
Sensitive Observation
Our method, guided by respect for the infant’s competence, is observation. We observe carefully to understand the infant’s communication cues and needs.
Caregiving Times: Involving the Child
During care activities (diapering, feeding, bathing, dressing, etc.), we encourage even the tiniest infant to become an active participant rather than a passive recipient of the activities. Parents create opportunities for interaction, cooperation, intimacy and mutual enjoyment by being wholeheartedly with the infant during the time they spend together.
“Refueled” by such unhurried, pleasurable caring experiences, infants are ready to explore their environment with only minimal intervention by adults.
Creating A Safe, Challenging, and Predictable Environment
Our role is to create an environment in which the child can naturally grow and improve their developmental growth. The more predictable an environment is, the easier it is for babies to learn.
As infants become more mobile, they need a safe and an appropriate space in which to move. Their natural, inborn desire to move should not be handicapped by the environment.
Time for Uninterrupted Play and Freedom to Explore
We give the infant plenty of time for uninterrupted play. We provide children with age appropriate toys to help develop their senses and encourage exploration. Instead of trying to teach babies new skills, we appreciate and admire what babies are actually doing.
Consistency
We establish clearly defined limits and communicate our expectations to develop discipline.