Toddlers

~15 months to 2 years old

Overview

Children in the 1s program are experimenting with their growing independence through active exploration of their environment. Teachers observe the children closely to ensure that they are given ample opportunities to strengthen their motor skills while feeling safe and supported. Clear and thoughtful communication between the school and home ensure that each child’s individual needs are being met with care. The children’s confidence in their own innate abilities flourishes as they continue to express their needs and desires more directly and enhance the reciprocal and respectful communication with their teachers as their language develops.

Enrollment Options

Between ages 1 and 3, we offer 2, 3, or 5 day schedules (and the choice between half or full days), allowing families to find a rhythm that matches their child’s pace. During this stage of emerging independence and curiosity, children are ready to engage in a group setting while still needing a schedule that feels manageable and supportive.

Daily Schedule Elements

As the children’s independence increases, we provide more time in our daily schedule for self-guided exploration. Through observing and getting to know both the children’s developmental goals and personalities, teachers frequently rotate materials to expose the children to a wide variety of experiences. While specific timings are still largely guided by the children’s needs, each day will include: 

  • Open-ended, self-guided sensory exploration

  • Meals and rest times begin to move toward a group schedule (for example: one mid-day nap)

  • Exposure to language through reading, singing, and conversation 

  • Access to opportunities for gross motor development that evolve with the child’s abilities

  • Opportunities for outdoor play (weather permitting)Open-ended sensory exploration with a variety of rotating materials and experiences 

  • Feeding and rest times, guided by each child’s individual needs

  • Exposure to language through reading, singing, and conversation

  • Access to materials that can be mouthed and manipulated (and easily disinfected!) 

  • Opportunities for outdoor play (weather permitting)

We strive to support and encourage our infants as they develop and grow by providing them with a gently stimulating environment and respectful, responsive interactions with the teachers and other children.