Toddlers
Ages: 13 months and steady walker
Our toddlers are encouraged to try new things, whether it’s food or new experiences. Children learn best when they are presented with new opportunities repeatedly.
They listen to stories individually and in small groups to stress the importance of the written word, to spark the imagination, and to inspire a love of reading. Toddlers are engaged in messy art, pretend play and teacher-directed activities that excite them.
Children sit together for meals and begin to learn to use open cups and utensils properly.
The toddlers enjoy having conversations with the teachers where they begin to build their vocabulary.
Early Learners
Ages: 2 years (before September 1st)
This group is transitioning from toddlerhood to preschool and is cared for with compassion, routine, and structure. We give them the individualized attention they crave at their unique levels and work with them to attain new skills that they will need in the preschool room. They continue to and are encouraged to drink from an open cup, use appropriate utensils for eating, and sit at the table for meals and snacks. Manners are modeled by adults and children are encouraged to use them.
Whether it is child or teacher-directed, this group seems happiest when they are engaged in music and active play. Although there are plenty of learning opportunities throughout the day, we also have a circle time incorporated into our morning routine where children recite the Pledge of Allegiance, and learn their colors, shapes, and written names.
Children are encouraged to begin self-help skills like changing their shoes, putting on their jackets, and pulling their pants up and down for diaper changes. When they are ready, we are prepared to assist with potty training.
The toddlers move on to the next room knowing so much, as they have started the road to independence.