Ages 2 to 3

Think about your child. Observe. At this age, what makes your child happiest? Chances are he or she is attracted to the surroundings which are constant in pattern and arrangement, and activities that are routine and have order. At the same time, you'll probably find your toddler noticing what adults don't - tiny objects, hidden corners and faint noises.

The first few years of a child's life are the most formative years. It is a time when children effortlessly absorb concepts and habits. It is also the period when roots for a love of learning are established.

According to Montessori philosophy, children absorb their environment unconsciously and enjoy learning most during the first three years of their lives. You can help channel your child's natural curiosity into positive learning experiences in one of The Montessori School's toddler programs.

Classrooms are carefully planned to meet the needs of toddlers and organized for their convenience. Areas of learning are defined, yet the space is open to allow plenty of room for social interaction and activities required for growth and development. Teachers lead classes using age appropriate Montessori materials and activities that are designed to arouse their interest and involvement.

Areas of learning include large muscle movement and fine motor exercises for hand-eye coordination. Practical life exercises such as pouring, sweeping, dusting, buttoning, zipping and table setting are introduced early, providing opportunities for children to care for themselves and their environment. Lessons of grace and courtesy are practiced daily to help toddlers learn to share things and be considerate of others.

Toddler Preschool (Ages 2 to 3)

Toddler Preschool is a five-day per week morning, afternoon or full-day program for children 2 to 3 years of age. Classes follow the child-centered Montessori toddler curriculum. Class times are as follows: Morning toddler program, 9:15-11:30 a.m.; Afternoon toddler program, 12:15-2:30 p.m.; Full-day toddler program, 9:15-2:30 p.m. For tuition rates, please see the tuition.

Saturday Toddler-Parent Program (Ages 1 1/2 to 2 1/2)

The Saturday toddler-parent program is an introduction to Montessori. Children ages 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 spend eight Saturday mornings with a parent or other adult caregiver in a Montessori toddler classroom created just for them. Saturday toddler-parent sessions are held for one hour and fifteen minutes each week beginning at 9:00 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. Sessions are held in the fall and spring. For current session dates, please call 410-321-8555.