Toddler

Designed as a gentle transition from home to school, our program encourages cooperative learning, fosters a sense of community among children and provides the toddlers increasing independence. Care for self and care of environment are stressed during lessons on practical life and daily living. The children are particularly sensitive to language development, sensorial stimuli and movement at this age, so their environment is prepared to maximize language and gross motor experience.

Here they are able to develop physical coordination, enjoy music and rhythm exploration, and learn using their whole bodies. By working with the children’s natural tendencies we show them that we respect their childhood, thus encouraging them to enjoy learning.

Both indoor and outdoor environments are rich in language experiences. Children’s literature is always available to the children for their own exploration. Story time may occur in quiet corners of the classroom under a canopy. Oral language development is encouraged through social interaction, as well as through songs and rhymes.

The search for independence and self-sufficiency expands exponentially as children start walking and begin to talk. Academic learning is indirect with the introduction of more sensorial exploration and adults giving the language to describe the experience.

There is a formal introduction to the concept that each task (eating, toileting, working, etc.) has a beginning, a transition and an end.

Diapers are changed with the child standing and the option to sit on the small portable toilet is offered each time. Dressing themselves (socks and shoes are harder but gradually conquered) taking them off is no problem at all!

Meal times include eating independently, drinking from an open mouth cup and putting away the dishes when done.

Children gradually move from independent to group schedules: eating together, napping at the same time and even sitting together to hear a story.

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Developing the Whole Child

During these crucial years, young children are provided a balance of physical, cognitive, social, and emotional stimulation in order to reach their optimum level of development. Understanding, caring, self- discipline, self-awareness, and care of self are incorporated into a creative curriculum and incorporated into each child's daily routine.

Nurturing Secure Relationships

Parent involvement is essential to each child's successful transition, continued happiness, and well-being at AMC. Beginning with a slow and sensitive orientation, together, the parents and the children gain trust and security in the environment. AMC staff work with the parents to overcome separation anxiety.

The relationship between the child, the teachers, and the prepared environment is interrelated and interdependent. The adult's relationship with the child is one of assurance, which is established and sustained through individual attention and sensitive interactions. With guidance, the child is allowed to follow his own interests and readiness in choosing activities.