Overview
Children between 12 and 24 months of age participate in our exciting toddler program. We place a special emphasis on helping our toddlers explore their world and find new ways to communicate all the wonderful things they are learning about.
Our teachers patiently guide your curious toddler through this period of immense growth and development, through art, music, reading and active playtime. Within our well-structured program, your energetic child will have countless ways to express their blossoming independence and self-confidence.
Program
Toddlers participate in activities designed to expand language, motor and social skills. Throughout the day:
- Arts and crafts projects develop fine motor skills;
- Story time fosters language skills and the joy of reading;
- Music time encourages self-expression while children play with instruments or dance with colorful pompoms;
- Materials time helps your child explore their sense of touch with water, clay, sand and other items;
- Matching activities aid object and pattern recognition; and
- Free play nurtures social skills and promotes sharing.
Daily Schedule
Toddlers begin to experience a more structured environment as they follow the daily group schedule for their class. Students eat breakfast and lunch at group tables and nap after lunch. Later in the afternoon, children are served a snack and participate in additional fun activities. We expect that toddlers may need some time to adapt to their new daily routine. Rest assured, we coordinate with parents to make your child’s transition as successful as possible.
Communication
We recognize the great trust it requires to place your child in the care of another person. To help provide your family the best possible experience:
- Teachers use the Tadpoles App as the primary method of communication to keep you informed on the important details of your child’s day;
- All classrooms are equipped with phones, and parents are encouraged to check in any time they need; and
- Teachers will notify you of any health issues or significant changes in your child’s mood or behavior, so that you can plan appropriately.
Teacher Qualifications
There is a lead-qualified teacher in every classroom. These instructors have either a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, a Child Development Associate’s degree or an equivalent certification. Each lead teacher is supported by an assistant who helps provide care and instruction throughout the day. We select teachers capable of establishing a safe, creative and inspiring learning environment for every student.
Food Service
We offer healthy menus and can make adjustments at your request. Served between 8:30 and 9am, breakfast consists of prepackaged items featuring at least two major food groups. Students eat lunch during a half hour period between 11:30 and 12:30pm. Our caterer, Schoolhouse Grill, crafts hot meals that are balanced according to the food pyramid. At 3pm, students are served a snack consisting of at least two major food groups. At 5pm, remaining students are served an additional light snack that will sustain them until dinner. First Steps Academy is accustomed to serving students on a strict diet. Please let us know how we can help accommodate your child’s unique needs.