Toddler

Our Toddler program is for children 18 months through 3 years of age. In the Toddler environment, they work on Care of Self, developing Language, Care of Environment, Gross and Fine motor skills, and Socializing.

Toddler students receive specials in music, physical education, and library time.

Toilet Independence

The toilets are just the right size to encourage independence and students are given the skills and opportunity to develop the confidence to be successful.

Language

Montessori Toddlers are in their sensitive period for language development. In our classroom, we use real words for objects, read books, sing songs, and have conversations that aid in speech and vocabulary development.

Care of Self

Students will become more independent as they learn how to zip a coat, wash their hands, put on boots, and prepare their snack. “Any child who is self-sufficient, who can tie his shoes, dress or undress himself, reflects in his joy and sense of achievement the image of human dignity, which is derived from a sense of independence.” (Maria Montessori, The Child in the Family)

Care of Environment

In a Montessori classroom, toddlers will share in the responsibilities of the classroom. This may include feeding the class pet, sweeping up their own mess, dusting classroom shelves, and watering plants.

Gross and Fine Motor Skills

Toddlers will develop fine and gross motor skills in the Montessori environment. Fine motor (small muscle) skills will develop as children build their hand, wrist, and arm muscles through activities such as pouring, weaving, stacking, and drawing. Gross motor (or large muscle) movements will develop through jumping, climbing, walking, and running.

Socializing

Children will have the opportunity to socialize with their peers in an environment where grace and courtesy is modeled and taught.