Toddler
The Toddler program, for children 20 months and up, takes advantage of the toddler's natural drive to act independently. Creative Minds Montessori School advances each child's growth and development through a rich and well prepared environment designed just for toddlers. The classrooms are a special place for the young child to begin his/her steps towards independence and self-reliance.
Dedicated, nurturing and trained teachers implement a toddler designed curriculum to foster cognitive development, speech and language development, strengthen fine motor and gross motor skills, introduce grace and courtesy lessons, and promote independence. An important part of a toddler's developing independence is learning to care for him/herself by washing hands and putting on shoes and jackets.
A Montessori setting offers the best beginning. Teachers create a prepared environment for toddlers to explore, discover and develop. Montessori materials introduce early learners to practical life skills, sensorial lessons, language and logic. Children have freedom of movement and are able to choose activities independently. Toddlers begin to see themselves as independent individuals and love learning new skills. Practical life activities such as getting dressed, setting the table, or sweeping the floor develops a sense of pride and excitement at this age. Sequencing, sorting and recognizing patterns are fun and lay the foundation for math and science skills. Toddlers experiment with art mediums, clap and move along to music, engage in lessons that encourage sensory and motor development, and enjoy outdoor time every day that weather permits.
Toddler exercises and activities recognize that children learn by doing. Classroom materials are always accessible, attractive, safe, and geared for a child's success. Activities are changed regularly in response to children's need for variety and challenge as they grow and learn. The safe, loving, gentle atmosphere puts children and parents at ease and makes for a trusting, spontaneous transition to school.
Our formula for success is multi-tiered: a strong partnership with each child's family; highly skilled teachers; close observation and responsiveness to each child; and, carefully designed classrooms, materials and play areas that are safe, engaging and developmentally appropriate. Research indicates that the most important years of human emotional and educational development are the first six years of life. We offer an exceptional environment for young children to grow and we are dedicated to helping every child realize his or her potential.