Our Toddler Program provides a nurturing, educational environment for children between the ages of 3 months and 3 years. The group size for this class is a maximum of 12 children. There is a full day or 1/2 day option.
This program focuses on the importance of the continuing growth of language skills, encouraging socialization and the building of friendships, beginning the use of the toilet, enhancing small motor skills through the use of play dough and other small manipulative toys, and creating opportunities for large motor development. The toddlers have their own playground with riding toys, slides, a sand box, kitchen play area, and many other active play activities. They are able to actively move their bodies by running, digging, building, riding, etc.
The classroom is carefully designed with the needs and interests of the children in mind. Morning circle time is a time for reading high-quality stories, teaching though the use of puppets, and learning fun songs. It is also a time to welcome each child and make them feel special and important. We also discuss a Bible story at a developmentally-appropriate level during our group time. Self-selected free play time includes a dramatic play area, lots of materials for building and imagination such as cars, people, puzzles, and various kinds of blocks, music and movement, and a planned art/sensory activity. There is also a private cozy space (a circus tent) for when a child wants to be alone, perhaps to look at a book.
Twice each week the toddlers go to the Art Studio with our specially-trained Art Teacher where there is a wealth of creative activities available to the children.
Mealtimes are times when the teacher/s sits with the children and and has conversations with them, building their language skills. Nap time after lunch is a time for the children to rest their bodies after a busy morning filled with lots of valuable learning!