Infant / Toddler Program
Moments of Discovery in A Caring Environment
The Montessori School of Anderson began its Infant / Toddler program in 1987 to meet the needs of our families with small infants. We created an environment that was safe, healthy and alive with responsiveness to infant explorations. Babies and toddlers enjoy freedom of movement to discover and interact, all the while developing gross and fine motor skills like grasping, reaching, and climbing. Studies have shown a direct correlation between this physical development and mental development. We treat them with respect as people in every encounter.
Our first mission is to make sure children end their toddler period with their curiosity intact. With this in mind, the environment is a prepared “little society.” The child is not “served”, but encouraged to become a functioning member of the society and to explore it fully.
Activities are positioned around the room for toddlers to choose independently. Each activity allows toddlers to begin to experience concepts of sequence, form, shape, movement, and sound. They have freedom of movement to explore and they are given the time they need to complete what they start.
Toddlers enjoy learning living skills. Activities that they can do now are irresistible: getting dressed, preparing snacks, setting the table, sweeping the floor, etc. Being able to use breakable objects for the first time creates an instantaneous surge of pride at this age. The activities change and evolve as the child grows physically, emotionally, and intellectually. Practical life exercises and grace and courtesy lessons will be incorporated to build self-confidence and independence.
Teachers in the toddler program are Montessori professionals certified for this age group. They continually seek new experiences for the toddlers that will stimulate their sense of curiosity. A teacher is an expert in the language for interacting with toddlers, and provides the respect, tenderness, warmth, and patience that allow the children to blossom.
Director for Infant / Toddler Program: Kelly Shuler kshuler@msasc.org