Toddlers Program
Toddlers, for example, are trying to learn to walk, talk, build attachments to their peers and their caregivers and parallel play alongside their peers. How can we help? We can provide:
Physical
– large, open spaces to crawl, walk, run, climb and jump
– stairs with a handrail for balancing
– chunky crayons, paintbrushes, chalk and large sheets of paper
– manipulative toys like wooden puzzles, small and large foam or plastic blocks, string and large beads
– sensory items like play dough, water play or finger paints
Cognitive/Intellectual
– naming objects and repeating words with the children
– time for exploring and playing without being interrupted
– finger plays or short songs
– active and expressive storytelling
Emotional
– face to face and on-on-one interactions
– reassuring, gentle and comforting reactions to children in distress
– meeting children’s needs in a timely manner
– allowing for the chance to make simple choices and having a sense of control
Social
– having multiple toys of same kind as children this age can’t share or learn to take turns yet
– reading books aloud and encouraging engaging in and talking about the story
– teaching self-care skills and encouraging independence
– naming and identifying feelings and how to express them
Creative
– having simple dress-up clothes or costumes for role-playing
– chunky crayons, paintbrushes, chalk & large sheets of paper
– simple finer plays, actions songs and musical instruments
– freedom to choose activities without adult interference
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