Toddler Program
18 months – 3 years old
About the Toddler Program
Our Toddler Program provides a warm, peaceful, and home-like environment where young children feel secure as they take their first steps toward independence. Class sizes are intentionally small, allowing teachers to respond thoughtfully to each child’s individual needs and development.
The years from birth to age three are a uniquely important time in a child’s life. Dr. Maria Montessori referred to this period as one of self-creation, when children are forming the foundation of their personality, movement, language, and sense of self. Our Toddler Program is designed to gently support this natural process by allowing children the freedom to explore, practice, and grow at their own pace.
The classroom environment is carefully prepared to encourage independence and confidence. Toddlers engage in hands-on activities that support the development of motor skills, language, coordination, and concentration. Practical life activities - such as pouring, carrying, cleaning, and caring for themselves and their environment - help children build self-help skills and a sense of capability. Sensorial experiences, early language and math exposure, music, art, and cultural activities further enrich the day.
Our toddler classrooms are mixed-age, creating a natural social community. Younger children learn by observing their older peers, while older toddlers gain pride and confidence as they model skills and offer help. This dynamic encourages patience, cooperation, empathy, and respect for others.
For many children, this is their first experience being part of a group outside the home. Within the classroom, toddlers learn how to wait their turn, share materials, and move through the day together. These early social experiences help foster dignity, independence, and a strong sense of belonging.
Teachers offer consistent warmth, patience, and nurturing care while maintaining a calm and peaceful classroom atmosphere. Predictable routines help children feel safe and secure as they transition between activities throughout the day.
Potty learning is supported when each child shows signs of readiness. Teachers work closely with families to guide this process positively and respectfully, allowing children to become successful without pressure.
Nutrition and care are also important parts of the toddler day. Children are encouraged to eat independently, building coordination and confidence, while teachers are always available to assist as needed.
Children who complete the Toddler Program leave with increased independence, confidence, and self-awareness, ready to transition smoothly into the Primary Program with a strong foundation for continued growth and learning.
Caring, Consistent Teacher Relationships
Strong, trusting relationships are at the heart of our Toddler Program. Our guides provide consistent care, warmth, and gentle guidance, allowing each child to feel secure and understood. Through close observation, teachers respond thoughtfully to individual needs, supporting emotional well-being, confidence, and a natural desire to explore.
Supporting Transitions and Big Feelings
Toddlers experience many emotions as they learn to navigate their world. Transitions throughout the day are handled with patience and intention, using calm routines, clear communication, and respectful support. This predictable rhythm helps children feel safe as they move between activities, building emotional regulation and trust.
A Typical Day in the Toddler Classroom
7 - 9 a.m.
Morning Daycare
Indoor Play/Activities
9 - 9:30 a.m.
Class Time Starts
Snack/Bathroom/Diapering
9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Circle Time/Work time
Practical Life, Sensorial, Math, Language, Cultural Arts
Stories and Group Lessons
10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Outdoor Play
11:15 - 11:45 a.m.
Lunch
11:45 - 12 p.m.
Lunch clean up/Bathroom/Diapering
12 - 2:30 p.m.
Nap Time
12:30 p.m. Half Day Session Pick Up
2:30 - 3 p.m.
Snack/Bathroom/Diapering
3 p.m. Full Day Session Pick Up
3 - 5 p.m.
Afternoon Daycare
Outdoor/Indoor Play
5 p.m.
Extended PM Care Pick Up
Diapers are changed throughout the day, as needed