Toddler

Even the youngest child has an innate desire to grow, learn, and adapt to their surrounding environment.  Montessori recognized this, and believed that education should begin with the very young so that each child can begin forming his or her own personal and wonderful identity and begin realizing their unique potential.

The WMS Toddler Program provides an environment that meets the needs of children 18 months to 3 years of age.  The toddler group of 14 children is staffed by a trained Montessori toddler teacher and an assistant.  The Montessori prepared environment allows children to develop social skills, emotional growth, physical coordination, and cognitive learning. Entry into this environment begins gradually, with parent and child coming in together for short periods of time until the child (and parent) build trust in the teachers and the new environment. This “phasing-in” also supports the parent/child separation process which is a primary task of the toddler period of development. We encourage parents who enroll their children in the WMS Toddler Program to provide a home environment which is consistent with the Montessori philosophy of child development.









The Environment

The environment in the Toddler Program is designed to be safe, nurturing, and allow for freedom of movement so that students may explore their surroundings.  Each area is set up with a specific purpose in mind – practical life, sensorial activities, food preparation, or group activities.  Faculty treat the children with respect and are responsive to their needs. They adapt their pace to the child’s, rather than expecting the child to adapt to an adult pace of life.  Children are allowed to concentrate without interruption, and are spoken to in soft, gentle tones. The environment is rich in language so that children can develop language skills.

Practical Life

The Practical Life area helps children develop skills that they will use in real life and work toward physical independence.  Activities like pouring, opening and closing, and stringing beads and other objects also strengthen fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and concentration.

Sensorial

The sensorial materials help the children become aware of themselves and the world around them.  Stimulation of the senses also aids in the development of cognitive learning.

Group Activities

Group activities help children bond with adults and peers by forming friendships and working and playing together.  Toddlers learn to demonstrate empathy for one another and learn the dynamics and expectations of working with others.

FAST FACTS

  • Directress: Ann Marakos
  • Assistants: Eve Horstmeyer
  • Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (includes before- and aftercare)
  • Lunch: Hot lunch is served daily (incl. vegetarian option)
  • Snacks: Morning and afternoon snacks are served
  • Naptime: Noon – 2:30 p.m.