Toddler Community: AGES 16 MONTHS - 3 YEARS
“The child has a different relation to his environment from ours... the child absorbs it. The things he sees are not just remembered; they form part of his soul.
He incarnates in himself all in the world about him that his eyes see and his ears hear.”
— Dr. Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind
The aim of the Toddler Community is to offer an engaging environment designed according to Montessori principles and practices that will promote the development of the young child's social skills, emotional growth, physical coordination and cognitive learning.
Gaining Independence
"Help me to do it by myself"
Young children have a natural drive and inclination towards independence. They gravitate toward activities that develop motor skills: running, climbing, carrying, and grasping objects. Control of their own bodies heralds a control of self, and the ability to dress, eat, and toilet independently. Children are expected to take on greater responsibilities for taking care of themselves and others with the passage of time.
Practical Life
The Practical Life area helps children develop real life skills while assisting in their physical independence, development of concentration and fine motor coordination. Activities like pouring, spooning, opening and closing, and stringing beads and other objects also strengthen fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and concentration, while practicing multi-step operations. Food preparation, setting the table, washing and drying dishes are all part of the daily activities.
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. Children explore materials that promote the development of the visual, sensory, auditory, and tactile senses.
Language
The environment is rich in language. Vocabulary, nomenclature and terminology are all an integral part of the daily routine. Storytelling and reading enhance this experience.
Socialization
Empathy, compassion, sharing, getting along and mutual respect are all part of the social awareness and development that takes place at this time. Group activities foster cooperation and friendships as children learn the art of working and playing together.
Outdoor Environment
The outdoor environment affords the toddler the opportunity for new experiences. Planting, nurturing and caring for growing things is one of many activities available. Play and games that promote gross motor skills are encouraged.
