Toddler

(18 months-36 months)

Program Overview

At Central Nursery School, our Toddler Program (18 months – 3 years) provides a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment that fosters independence, curiosity, and social-emotional growth. We follow a Montessori-inspired, play-based approach, ensuring that each child receives individualized attention while learning through hands-on experiences. Our nurturing educators guide toddlers through a balance of structured activities and free exploration, fostering a love for learning, self-confidence, and a strong sense of community.

Curriculum Framework

Our curriculum is designed to support toddlers’ natural development through meaningful experiences. We focus on the following core areas of learning:

1. Social & Emotional Development

  • Encouraging positive relationships with caregivers and peers
  • Supporting self-regulation and emotional expression
  • Teaching turn-taking, sharing, and cooperative play
  • Providing opportunities for self-help and independence

2. Language & Early Literacy

  • Daily storytelling, songs, and interactive reading sessions
  • Introducing simple sign language and exposure to multiple languages
  • Expanding vocabulary through labeling objects and experiences
  • Encouraging communication through gestures, sounds, and words

3. Cognitive & Problem-Solving Skills

  • Exploring cause-and-effect relationships through hands-on activities
  • Engaging in sorting, matching, and categorizing games
  • Encouraging curiosity with open-ended questions and observations
  • Introducing early numeracy concepts like counting and patterns

4. Motor Skills Development

  • Fine Motor: Strengthening pincer grasp with puzzles, beading, and transferring objects
  • Gross Motor: Enhancing coordination through climbing, balancing, and movement activities
  • Sensory Play: Exploring different textures, temperatures, and materials through hands-on experiences

5. Practical Life & Self-Help Skills

  • Encouraging dressing, handwashing, and cleaning up after meals
  • Practicing table setting and serving food in a family-style environment
  • Supporting toilet learning with gentle guidance and encouragement
  • Reinforcing routines and daily responsibilities

6. Music, Art, & Sensory Play

  • Engaging in daily music and movement sessions with instruments, dancing, and rhythm exercises
  • Encouraging creative expression through painting, drawing, and clay modeling
  • Providing sensory experiences with water play, sand, and nature-based materials

7. Nature & Outdoor Learning

  • Exploring seasonal changes, weather, and plant growth in our outdoor classroom
  • Engaging in gardening activities to nurture curiosity and responsibility
  • Encouraging movement and gross motor skills through nature walks and playground exploration
  • Providing opportunities for water play, sand play, and digging

Parent Partnership & Communication

At Central Nursery School, we value strong relationships with families and provide:

  • Daily reports on meals, naps, and activities
  • Monthly newsletters with program updates and developmental insights
  • Parent-teacher meetings and educational workshops
  • Opportunities for family involvement, including special events and classroom visits

Enrollment & Next Steps

Our Toddler Program is open for enrollment year-round with flexible scheduling options. We invite you to schedule a tour to see our nurturing environment in action!

Contact us today to learn more!