“The development of the child during the first three years after birth is unequaled in intensity and importance by any period that precedes or follows in the whole life of the child.”
– Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind
The Montessori classroom is designed to be inviting, calm, and structured to allow the child the ability to learn academic and real-life skills. Socialization is learned naturally with daily interactions during snack, group, and work time. Children are able to work independently or in a small group.
The curriculum in a Montessori toddler classroom is designed to aid in the development of the whole child. Quality, authentic montessori materials meet the specific developmental needs of toddlers and to support their natural need for purposeful work.
Toddlers are in a unique phase in life that enables them to easily learn a sense of order, absorb language like a sponge, and become independent through establishing practical life skills. Our Montessori trained teachers work with each child individually or in small groups to make the most out this essential time.
Socialization is learned naturally with daily interactions during snack, group, and work time. Children allowed to learn independently or with a friend. Classroom time is a great opportunity to practice learning how to take turns, follow directions, and use manner words.
Children entering the toddler program do NOT need to be toileting independently; it is part of the curriculum. Using the Montessori method, most children easily learn how to use the toilet with less struggles and frustration.
Fine motor skills are developed daily through hands on activities in the classroom designed to strengthen the hand and mind connection. Toddlers work each day to develop their gross motor skills through active play with slides, balancing beams, tunnels, and movement at group time.
Activities like naming of vegetables, animals, and community helpers encourage vocabulary development .
Spooning, tonging, and pouring activities promote order, concentration, cooridination, and independence while strengthening fine motor skills.
Puzzles are a great way to strengthen fine motor skills. Other Sensorial activities include color matching, knobbed cylinders, and musical instruments.
“We chose Small World Montessori for pre-school and kindergarten for all three of our children, the youngest of whom graduated in 2018, and we couldn’t have been more pleased with this decision. From the very beginning, the teachers at SWMS ignited their love of learning, encouraged their curiosity and helped them develop an awareness of and appreciation for the world around them. As they transitioned into 1st grade in a traditional school setting, the foundation SWMS provided served them well and placed them ahead of their peers in both math and reading.”
“We initially chose Small World Montessori School because we wanted our son’s earliest educational experiences to foster a love of learning. Small World has given him that and so much more! The teachers and staff work tirelessly to create an environment that nurtures all aspects of the child’s development, especially social and emotional development. They truly care about each individual and help them to reach their full potential. The icing on the cake is that my son comes home from school each day telling us how much he loves his school, his teachers and his classmates!”
Montessori Toddler Guide
Toddler Assistant Guide
Montessori Assistant Toddler Guide
Afternoon Enrichment Guide
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