Our toddler program provides a nurturing environment that supports the developmental needs of independence, movement, and opportunities to engage all senses. Toddlers develop autonomy by having the choice of materials to interact with, having responsibility for themselves whenever possible and by allowing them the opportunities for:
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Self-help skills
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Daily chores
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Hygiene and toileting
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Feeding themselves
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Dressing and grooming themselves
When toddlers practice self-help skills daily such as feeding and dressing themselves, they practice their large and small motor skills, gain confidence in their ability to try new things, and build their self-esteem and pride in their independence.
Families
Toddlers enjoy being independent as it relates to personal hygiene, self help skills, daily chores, feeding and dressing themselves. To support their need for self-help skills in the classroom and at home, families can encourage toddlers to help take clothes on and off, feed themselves, practice daily routines, and allow children to participate in daily chores around the house.
Caregivers
Caregivers observe toddlers interacting with the space around them, the materials, and other children to gain a deeper understanding about the children’s individual developmental needs. Caregivers use these observations to plan for the environment and experiences to support unique needs with special consideration of independence, movement, and opportunities to engage all senses. Caregivers and families develop a respectful relationship through open, reciprocal conversations about the toddlers. A weekly log is provided by the caregiver documenting caregiving and child’s development.
