Toddlers

Toddlers are curious by nature and enthusiastic explorers.

Toddlers need opportunities to explore new objects, practice new and familiar skills, problem solve and conquer new challenges. Toddlers experience discovery through active play while participating in hands-on learning throughout their environment. They begin to “cement” their large motor skills and get steady on their feet. Language begins to explode in the toddler years as they repeat words that they hear, begin to use 2-3 word sentences and voice their opinions. Toddlers are figuring out not only what they can do with their bodies, but who they are as people. They explore playing with others and begin to build friendships that allow them opportunities to practice getting along with others.

At Thrive, our toddler classrooms are filled with interesting materials that allow the children to safely explore and begin to master new skills. Because toddlers love to practice skills over and over through hands-on experiences, our teachers provide lots of opportunities for repetition. We give toddlers time to jump, sing, dance, touch, dump, sit and move throughout the day. Language development continues to be an important part of the toddler years. Our teachers regularly read, sing, and talk to children while they play with interesting materials and explore their surroundings. Our toddler classrooms follow a daily schedule and structured routine that help toddlers know what to expect throughout the day. Thrive teachers are caring and responsive, learn children’s likes and dislikes, observe skills and areas for growth, and make teaching decisions based on what they know about the children in their care.

Families are a key part of our program. We strive to build strong partnerships with families and have open lines of communication. Our teachers work with parents to meet the unique needs of their child and family and build respectful, long-lasting relationships. Parents are kept up to date with daily reports that share information on mealtime, toileting and activities their child experiences throughout the day.