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The
Toddler Program
The
Toddler program is designed around the basic Montessori concept
of "freedom within limits." The environment is prepared
with age-appropriate materials and exercises that encourage each
child's natural curiosity and enthusiasm. The equipment in the prepared
environment and separate toddler playground areas, as well as the
consistency of our routines, have all been carefully designed to
foster the development of our youngest students.
The toddler day includes independent
and small group activities that develop gross and fine motor skills,
cognitive, social, and language skills. Art, music and free play
round out their busy day. And, since children in this age group
love to be "on the go," ample opportunity is provided
to explore the outdoor environment, engage in water activities,
or just run in the sun for a part of every day.
Skills for Life
An important part of each
toddlers social development revolves around practical life skills.
They are encouraged to help clean up after art or activity periods
and often help prepare their morning and late afternoon snack. We
also work with our students on cleanliness and hygiene, developing
the routine of washing hands before and after meals and other appropriate
times. We believe toilet training is a normal acquisition that is
both developmental and learned and will work with parents to make
sure that the opportunity is available to the child when the time
is right.
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The
time in a child's life from 18 - 36 months is delightful, with new
discoveries occurring almost every day; but we acknowledge that
it can be a frustrating time too. To this end, we encourage frequent
parent/teacher communication and endeavor to share pertinent information
just as quickly as changes occur. In addition to these routine and
regular contacts, we schedule a written progress report and two
in-depth parent/teacher conferences each school year.
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