Toddler Program 24 – 36 month
Program Overview
Our Toddler Program is designed for 24 – 36 month old children. Toddlers are introduced to age appropriate materials and they are invited to make choices from a variety of activities designed to support their growth and needs. With toddlers, we focus on the development of basic trust while supporting their emerging sense of self. Independence and order are encouraged, and self-confidence is enhanced through social and learning experiences. Music, movement, toilet-training, art, worship, circle time, choices and outdoor/gymnasium play are all part of the daily routine for toddlers at A Joyful Noise.
From birth through three years of age, young children are characterized by the ability to learn ‘unconsciously’. Our teachers are aware of the developmental needs of toddlers and we provide activities designed to support the learning of sequence & ordering, basic language concepts and fine motor control.
Order & Sequence Development
Sequence and order are important in establishing a sense of routine, developing more advanced organizational skills, and even in developing reading skills (for example: reading and word formation is done left to right). We use activities that help toddlers develop a sense of sequence and order such as “stacking cups” which is an activity involving size comparison and arrangement by size. Snack is also presented in such a way as to incorporate order and sequence. New toddlers begin a few steps at a time, with the teacher offering only as much help as is necessary, encouraging independence.
Language Development
Language is extremely important to toddlers; it helps them build a link to their environment and the people around them. Toddlers want to know the names of everything and, for this reason; we include many concrete and abstract language activities throughout their classrooms.
When introducing language to toddlers, teachers use the ‘three period lesson’. At first, teachers simply name objects for the child. Later, teachers ask the child to show us the previously named object. And finally, teachers ask the child “What is this?” In addition to the above technique, we also place a strong emphasis on conversation, songs, rhymes, poetry and books to help develop language skill.
Fine Motor Development
Development of fine motor skill is another area of emphasis in the toddler classroom. Puzzles are a great tool to help children learn how to manipulate objects and we have a large selection available so children always have something new to try as their interests change. In addition to puzzles, many practical life activities are promoted in this development area such as learning to control scissors and learning to hold writing utensils in the “pincer grasp.”
Gross Motor Development
AJNP has a large gymnasium, a smaller indoor play room, an outside playground, walking trails and sports fields to encourage even our youngest student’s large motor skill development. With tumbling mats, riding push toys, small basketball hoops, swings, a small climbing wall and exceptional teachers, each child will find his/her favorite activities and strengthen the toddler’s natural propensity to active learning.
Social/Emotional Development
The significance of social and emotional development is seen in every area of a child’s life. A child will have a strong foundation for later development if he or she can manage personal feelings, understand others’ feelings and needs, and interact positively with others. Differences in social and emotional development result from a child’s inborn temperament, cultural influences, disabilities, behaviors modeled by adults, the level of security felt in a child’s relationships with adults, and the opportunities provided for social interaction. At AJNP we foster each child’s natural temperament while building trusting relationships. Offering consistent care, gentle guidance, plenty of opportunity to socialize with peers and the freedom to work independently is AJNP’s formula for a successful introduction to school.
A Joyful Noise offers young children a safe, nurturing environment with trusted teachers who respect each child. We partner with parents to give children as much support and positive growth as possible during their first school experience and it is our sincere hope that your child finds joy in their growing independence and a life-long love of learning. Contact us today to schedule a visit!
