The Montessori School of North Hoffman
and
Lotus Montessori School
About Our School
For Our Parents
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The Young Toddler and Toddler Programs
(18 months to 3 years)
Our Young Toddler and Toddler Programs help children gain an appreciation for the joy of learning in general, and for their expanding capabilities in particular. Their strong sense of autonomy is encouraged as they begin to function more
independently and explore a broader spectrum of activities. At this age, children are able to interact and work alongside adults, and they form real relationships with friends. This leads to the development of a true sense of community.
The programs encompass a daily routine with flexibility for individual choices. Toddlers do not merely explore, but are able to work and thus gain the ability to stay focused on a task. Practical life activities such as pouring, dusting, and setting the table are set up to help deepen this concentration. Equipment and materials are toddler-sized to promote independence.
Our toddlers are given a variety of choices to support their development and interests. They are introduced to a work cycle in which they choose a work material, finish the work, and return the material to its place. Age-appropriate Montessori materials provide academic stimuli and promote cognitive preparation for more advanced materials used in the Primary Program. There is a focus on practical life, sensorial, beginning language, mathematics, and art materials.
Our toddlers are exposed to a broad range of hands-on experiences, and our prepared environment entices toddlers to explore and discover. Group activities include stories, music, and movement, and the daily routine includes a snack time and an outdoor or indoor gym time.
Children do not need to be toilet trained prior to entering the Young Toddler Program, but toilet training is incorporated into the Program (with parents' help) at the appropriate time. Children are required to be toilet trained prior to moving up to the Primary Program.
