TMS Toddler Program

(Ages 18 months to 3 years)

 

The first three years of a child's life are the most formative.  During this period, children absorb innumerable impressions from their surroundings as their inner development takes place.  Very young children are happiest when their living environment is familiar and constant.  They thrive on routine, external order, encouragement and respect for their individuality.

 

Our Toddler Program is a natural extension of the home, a harmonious community that allows each child to reach his or her full potential.  It provides a nurturing experience designed to foster independence, language and creativity for children 18 months to 3 years.  The program focuses on the individual child within a structured environment organized to meet the needs of toddlers.

 

Our school year begins in September with a phasing-in period which lasts approximately two weeks.  During this time, we invite parents into the classroom to assist their child in feeling comfortable with his or her new surroundings.  The child needs to feel secure to explore their environment while having the emotional support of the parents.  It is very important that the separation of parent and child be gradual and gentle.

 

In a large, bright open environment, toddlers observe each other's enjoyment and discovery.  Manipulative exercises such as bead stringing and working with knobbed puzzles are offered.  Each week different art activities are offered using a variety of materials and techniques. Practical Life materials, designed to fit a toddler's hands invite the child to spoon, pour, sweep, button and wash.  These are the activities that children watch their parents do and therefore they are eager to participate in as well.  Daily music circles provide each child with the opportunity for singing and musical movement.  Learning to use the toilet and socialization are important aspects of the Toddler Program!  The teachers gently guide the children through each successive level of development and achievement, always encouraging and supportive.  Parents are asked to attend a 1/2 hour music and musical movement class once a week.  This provides a wonderful opportunity for parents and toddlers to participate together in a variety of musical experiences such as singing, musical movement, rhythm patterns and the introduction of various instruments.

 

The Toddler Program at TMS provides excellence in Montessori education allowing each child to reach his/her full potential.