The Montessori Toddler Curriculum supports the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of the child.
The teachers create a nurturing, inviting, and orderly setting in the classroom referred to as the prepared environment to help guide this development. The activities in this environment lead the child to build order, coordination, independence, sensory motor skills, socialization skills, self-esteem, inner security, and habits of concentration.
Developmental Stages
A Day in the Life
At Kingsley, we keep a simple routine to help young children feel confident and secure.
- Arrival: Children are warmly welcomed as they begin their day. They greet their teachers and peers, change into indoor shoes, and hang up their coats and backpacks.
- Work Time: In an extended, uninterrupted period, children choose meaningful work, engage deeply with materials, and return them to their proper place on the shelf. Work time, also called “work cycle,” develops concentration, independence, and a sense of order.
- Snack: Snack is available throughout the morning, and children serve themselves independently. They prepare their snack by pouring water, slicing fruit, and arranging the food on plates. Then, they enjoy their snack and clean up after themselves.
- Group Activities/Circle Time: A time for the class to gather as a community for stories, songs, whole group lessons, and shared experiences that support language development, social connection, and a sense of belonging.
- Dismissal: Teachers support children in changing their shoes, gathering their belongings, and saying goodbye as they are dismissed to go home.
Co-Curricular Spotlights
PERFORMING ARTS
Children participate in a weekly music class led by our experienced Early Childhood music educator, bringing joyful and meaningful musical experiences into the classroom.
The goals of the Toddler Performing Arts Program are to:
- Build a strong foundation and a lifelong love of music.
- Encourage children to explore, take risks, and express themselves through music.
- Introduce core musical concepts through play, movement, and games.
- Expose children to music from a variety of cultures, helping them appreciate the richness and diversity of musical expression.
- Support the development of healthy singing voices and introduce basic instrumental skills.
VISUAL ARTS
Guided by our passionate Early Childhood art teacher, children participate in weekly visual arts lessons in small groups within the classroom.
Materials are carefully presented so children can access them independently, allowing for meaningful exploration and the development of confidence in their creative process.
The goals of the Toddler Visual Arts Program are to:
- Encourage children to explore and express their creativity through a range of materials and experiences.
- Introduce early art skills such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and printmaking.
- Build confidence through independent exploration and choice.
- Support the development of fine motor skills and coordination.
- Foster curiosity, creativity, and a sense of pride in their work.
