Toddlers
Toddlers (Age 18 months to 3)
Montessori Programs for Infants and Toddlers
This link will open an online FlipBook that will allow you to read or print the chapter from our book, The Montessori Way, about Montessori Infant-Toddler Programs.
In the Toddler Communities there is great emphasis on preparing an environment where each child has the ability to move and explore, which supports the development of her self-knowledge. Freedom is given within limits in order for the child to become organized and learn respect for others. The environment is prepared in a way that appeals to the senses through order, balance, and harmony and allows children to follow their natural curiosity and to experiment with the materials.
Children have experiences with the natural world through observing and caring for plants and animals in our beautiful garden areas. They learn the importance of safety in using tools, rather than forbidding their use. They engage in developmentally appropriate activities using materials which they can manipulate with their hands, and, along with teachers and parents, they feel a sense of community in which to experience the importance of caring for others.
The activities of Practical Life are designed to develop everyday living skills: caring for yourself, caring for where you live (the environment), preparing and serving food, and the lessons of grace and courtesy (manners and control of movement). Practical Life activities aid the development of concentration, coordination of movement, order and independence. These activities are important to the integration of the child's personality because she develops trust and feelings of self-worth.
Children have experiences with the natural world through observing and caring for plants and animals in our beautiful garden areas. They learn the importance of safety in using tools, rather than forbidding their use. They engage in developmentally appropriate activities using materials which they can manipulate with their hands, and, along with teachers and parents, they feel a sense of community in which to experience the importance of caring for others. The activities of Practical Life are designed to develop everyday living skills: caring for yourself, caring for where you live (the environment), preparing and serving food, and the lessons of grace and courtesy (manners and control of movement). Practical Life activities aid the development of concentration, coordination of movement, order and independence. These activities are important to the integration of the child's personality because she develops trust and feelings of self-worth.
