Toddlers
16 Months to 2 Years and 9 Months
The toddler stage can be seen as one of the most challenging times and rewarding ones. While in the classroom, your toddler will be exposed to materials and experiences that encourage a curiosity for learning, investigating and problem-solving. Our knowledgeable teachers combine planned curriculum with free play to ignite each toddler’s intellectual growth and overall development.
Toddler Program Goals
Nurturing, Flexible Atmosphere
To provide a nurturing, flexible, and calm atmosphere where physical affection is freely given, self-concept is enhanced, independence is encouraged, and expectations are made clear.
Independence in Self-Care
To meet each child’s physical needs while setting the stage for future independence in self-care, i.e., toilet training, putting on coats, putting on shoes, etc.
To Promote Emotional Growth
- To build self-confidence and a sense of self-worth by allowing choices within limits and to build on successful experiences.
- To encourage curiosity and a sense of wonder with an environment that is designed to limit the use of “no”.
To Promote Social Growth
- To promote and instill a sense of caring for and sensitivity towards others; foundation for respect is established.
To Promote Intellectual Growth
- To provide an atmosphere where children discover and explore – to provide experiences with open-ended questions.
- To provide a wide variety of activities within an outline where cooperative play is encouraged.
To Promote Physical/Motor Development
- For children to use their bodies in a variety of active ways by participating in fine and large motor activities both indoors and outdoors.
- To engage in simple games and songs.
Language Development Focus
To provide for the language development that is so important at this stage of development.
Develop Self-Help Skills
To develop self-help skills to create a feeling of independence and confidence in the child.
Examples of Daily Activities
Daily Reading Activities
Age-appropriate books, puppet shows and flannel stories to support listening, language, and a love of reading.
Creative Art Engagement
Finger painting, music, dance and pretend play to spark creativity.
Stimulating Sensory Play
Natural and everyday objects to encourage exploration through sight, touch, smell and taste to entice curiosity.
Routine Outdoor Play
Routine time outside at our on-site playground to explore nature and inspire motor and physical development.