The Toddler Environment

Montessori Classroom

Maria Montessori believed that the first three years of life are the most fundamental in the development of a human being.  These years provide a critical foundation for the person the child is to become and must be thought of with the greatest respect.  The toddler environment at South Suburban Montessori provides the respect and security needed for this foundation to grow.

Toddlers are interested in learning about everything in the world around them. They acquire this knowledge through their senses and learn best by experimentation, exploration and observation.  Helping children to help themselves is the best way to describe the overriding philosophy of the Montessori toddler environment. This nurturing, clean and safe environment is equipped with toddler-sized furniture and inviting learning materials.

The Toddler Community focuses on the strengthening of language, the refinement of gross and fine motor skills and the development of a strong sense of independence and order. The children engage in daily life activities, such as mopping, scrubbing, toileting, cooking and gardening, which allow for the development of independence and self-reliance.  They also participate in art and music activities, group time and outdoor play and exploration.   

Our Toddler Community is designed for children 18 months to 3 years of age.  The class meets five days per week from 8:45am to 11:45am.

A transition to the Primary/Children’s House environments begins as the child’s third birthday approaches.