Toddler Program
The Toddler program prepares the child for the Pri-Primary program. The curriculum for toddlers is based on a well “prepared environment” with curriculum objectives in different areas such as:
Practical Life: The development of large muscle control such as walking, carrying, dancing, etc. Small muscle development occurs through a variety of hand-eye coordination exercises such as bead-stringing, pegs, puzzles, folding, pouring, spooning, and grasping. A variety of transferring exercises fulfill the child’s need for repetition. The beginning of self-care is introduced and emphasized with the dressing frames, hand washing, wiping face etc. Exercises of grace and courtesy are very important at this age, including setting the table, table manners, and the use of words such as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’.
Sensorial Development: This area contributes to the development of all senses. Therefore, presentations regarding discrimination of color, size, shape, texture, and scent are given and made available in individual sets for the children to work independently.
Language: The sequence for language development is comprised of three steps: speech, writing, and reading. Our program accommodates the child’s sensitive period for language by offering creative and intriguing concepts to expand their growing vocabulary. The teachers build vocabulary by reading stories, singing songs, and preparing for the learning of the initial sounds which is the beginning of our reading program. These exercises also contribute to the preparation for penmanship by giving the child the opportunity to practice holding a pencil. These exercises are a natural progression of academic development at this age.
Mathematics: Toddlers begin numeration and counting with manipulative objects. At this age, key concepts include: numeration 1 to 10, the concept of quantity, recognition of each number, and penmanship of the numbers.
Cultural Subjects: The child’s vocabulary is enriched by the work they do through the botany and zoology puzzles, for example: parts of the plant, leaf, flower, fish, frog, turtle, bird, horse etc.
All children participate in the extracurricular lessons such as Spanish, Music, and Movement.
Program Goals: To develop large and small motor skills, while beginning to form social graces. In addition the gustatory, olfactory, auditory, tactile, and visual senses will develop and gain discernment. The introduction of the reading program, vocabulary expansion, and penmanship as well a foundation for a mathematical mind.