“If we observe natural development with sufficient care, we see that it can be defined as the gaining of successive levels of independence.”
Maria Montessori
The Toddler Program is designed for children ages 18 months to 3 years, with a strong focus on developing functional independence. It offers a gentle, supportive approach to separation and guides both children and families through the toilet learning process with care and consistency.
The Toddler Program runs Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM, with drop-off available as early as 7:15 AM. A consistent five-day schedule supports toddlers’ developmental need for routine and stability. Clear, repeated experiences throughout the week help strengthen their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
Toddlers begin their day with a two-hour uninterrupted work cycle, a key component of the Montessori approach. Based on Dr. Montessori’s observations, extended periods of focused activity help nurture a child’s ability to concentrate and engage deeply with the learning materials. After the work cycle, children enjoy a group snack followed by outdoor playtime.
The Toddler Program offers children their first experience learning within a community of peers. Through activities like watering plants or caring for classroom materials, they develop a sense of responsibility and connection. Most importantly, the program emphasizes kindness and social language, helping children build early friendships that continue to grow throughout their time at Gables Montessori.
Toddler Curriculum
Practical Life
Practical Life
In the Toddler Program, children are immersed in hands-on activities like mopping, sweeping, watering plants, cleaning, and food preparation—all of which foster a strong sense of community and responsibility. The program places special emphasis on building functional independence through everyday life skills such as dressing, undressing, handwashing, and self-feeding. Families also receive gentle guidance and support throughout the toilet learning process.
Fine & Gross-Motor
Fine & Gross-Motor
The materials in the Toddler Program are thoughtfully designed to support physical development. Activities like bead stringing and puzzles enhance hand-eye coordination, while painting and cutting with scissors help refine fine motor skills. Gross motor development is encouraged through specific lessons such as balancing on a beam or hopping on one foot, helping children build strength, coordination, and confidence.
Language
Language
The Language Area offers toddlers rich opportunities to develop their communication skills through songs, poems, storytelling, and daily conversations. To build vocabulary meaningfully, children engage with real, hands-on materials—connecting words to sensory experiences. For example, a basket of real vegetables might invite them to explore and compare the weight, texture, smell, and color of a sweet potato, a head of cabbage, and a carrot—turning everyday objects into powerful learning tools.
Art & Music
Art & Music
Children explore art through a variety of creative mediums, including crayons, collage, watercolor, and easel painting. Stories about the artwork displayed in the classroom help introduce the foundations of art appreciation. Music is also woven into their daily experience, with singing, dancing, and listening activities fostering a joyful connection to rhythm and sound.
