Toddler and Preschool Programs (Lic. #406211702)
Both the toddler and preschool programs are Montessori based and are offered in full and half day formats. Children are placed in mixed groups from 1 1/2 to 3 years for toddlers, and 2 1/2 to 5 years for preschoolers. This vertical grouping provides beneficial modeling and interaction for the older child as well as the younger one. Since the children are not grouped by age, they are free to work at their own pace.
Toddler Program
The Laureate Toddler Montessori program is based on the belief that more developmental gains take place in the first three years of life than in any other period. The toddler program recognizes the strong natural impulses of toddlers while encouraging them to choose appropriate activities. Our toddlers are encouraged to touch, handle, and explore a variety of sensorial materials: blocks, pegs, sand, and clay.
Toddlers have many opportunities to practice self help skills such asdressing, eating, and toileting which develop personal competence and high self esteem. Counting ("you may have 2 crackers"), language ("yes,it is a blue whale"), science and nature studies ("let's find moremaple leaves") are woven into the fabric of the child's dailyactivities. The loving bond formed between the toddler and the teacherhelps the child to make a successful transition from "home" family to"school" family.
Preschool Program
The Laureate Preschool program utilizes the best of Montessori and contemporary social emotional approaches. This means that the beautifully crafted materials of the Montessori technology have beenplaced in the room along with other didactic materials which call to children to become involved in a total learning experience. Art, music, movement, Mandarin and Spanish are also woven into the curriculum. The children play and laugh together in an environment of freedom as well asdiscipline. After group time, the children are free to choose any activity they wish as long as they do not infringe on the rights of others. Our teachers are always busy preparing and setting out new materials to entice and delight the children. These materials contribute to a developing child's physical and emotional readiness.
Photographs of the preschool classrooms were taken in spring of 2004.Of course, the decor changes periodically, so our intention here is to provide insight into the ambiance and various themes that develop in the preschool classes.
