Encouraging independence and self-confidence through play and learning
Toddlers are very busy at school! Whether building, painting, climbing, dancing, or snuggling, our toddlers are learning something new each day. Toddler teachers begin to establish predictable daily routines so children feel safe and confident to explore their environment.
The Classroom Environment
- Calming, neutral color palette and décor inspired by natural elements
- Spacious classrooms with areas designed for both quiet and active play
- 1:3 teacher-to-child ratio for individualized care and attention to learning needs
- CPR- and First Aid-certified staff
- Professional cleaning daily
What does the PLAN curriculum look like in the toddler room?
- Play:
- Stimulating natural learning through centers designed for block play and construction, dramatic play and make-believe, art exploration, puzzles and manipulatives, sensory activities, and movement experiences
- Learning:
- Supporting language development through songs, rhymes, and books
- Modeling communication skills through back-and-forth conversations throughout the day
- Inspiring curiosity about the world through monthly thematic units including Me and My Family, Oceans, and Things that Grow
- Arts:
- Facilitating artistic expression through painting, drawing, playdough modeling, and collage projects
- Providing daily music and dance experiences and weekly sessions with Georgetown Hill’s music specialist
- Nurturing:
- Forming responsive relationships with toddler teachers
- Developing self-help and personal care skills
- Encouraging caring peer relationships
Toddlers’ Daily Schedule
- Engaging arrival/transition activities
- Family-style snack time (morning and afternoon)
- Circle Time (songs, stories, movement)
- Thematic learning center activities
- Outdoor play (morning and afternoon)
- Family-style lunch
- Nap time
- Self-selected activities
OWL for Toddlers
OWL is Georgetown Hill’s custom-designed wellness program. OWL is implemented at staff, child, and family levels throughout Georgetown Hill.
- Outdoor experiences, weather permitting
- Movement activities to support both large muscle and small muscle development
- Nutritious snacks
Communication with Families
In addition to ongoing face to face meetings at pick-up and drop-off times, we also communicate with families through the use of a digital communication app called KidReports. iPads in each classroom allow toddler teachers to send daily reports on:
- Snacks/meals
- Diaper changes
- Nap times
- Classroom activities (photos and videos)
Families can also use KidReports to update teachers on developmental changes and any special needs for the day.