The Toddler Program is a wonderful opportunity for children to comfortably be with others their own age. They learn independence - - taking coats and boots off and putting them on, preparing their own snack, choosing their own activity, cleaning up their own spills - - and to celebrate the joy and pride in being able to do for themselves.
As they complete daily activities, they are consistently using small and large muscles. Their coordination is being improved as they play (or work as we in Montessori say). In the unhurried Montessori class the children are able to stay with their work until it is completed. Their concentration is able to naturally grow, as they are actively learning through their chosen work. Their work needs to be returned to the shelves so the sense of order these youngsters so naturally crave is extended into the classroom.
Some materials are present for refining the senses: awareness of color, length, diameter, and shape of objects, shape of geometric puzzle pieces, sound, et cetera. Through the senses, an introduction to counting and sounds begins toward the end of the school year.
There is a section set up for arts and crafts activities with Play-Dohtm, stamps, crayons, markers and paints, all being present at various times.
Large muscles are exercised on various equipment as well as on "the green line." The children learn many fun songs and finger plays on "the line" as well. In addition, the Toddler curriculum is supplemented with yoga on a weekly basis.
Although Toddler children play mostly in parallel with one another, they relish the opportunity of being with other children, waiting their turn and, if they choose, sharing their work. As their social skills mature they are able to interact with their classmates more closely.
The adults observe and note carefully the needs and capabilities of each child based on their knowledge of child development and the Montessori philosophy so each child can be stimulated and challenged based upon their readiness.
A great resource for the Toddler parents is Ms. Nancy's weekly blog to keep everyone abreast of the children's activites. It can be viewed at: http://swsmontessoritoddlers.blogspot.com/.