
General Information
What you should look for in a school?
Make sure that the atmosphere in the classroom is compatible with your home environment. Realize that your children learn far more from what they see rather than from what they hear. Watch the teachers. Are they observing and directing, while the children move freely about, pursuing their own interests? Do you sense that the children and teachers respect one another? Do you perceive an atmosphere of love, honesty, fairness and consistency? Are the children using the materials, or do the ‘tools’ of this classroom look new and unused? Are parents encouraged to come in and observe?
Your child is ready and willing to learn. By giving her access to the specialized materials available, in a Montessori classroom, you are opening up a world of new and exciting possibilities, a world in which learning comes easily and naturally.
Diapers and Toilet Training:Parents must supply disposable diapers, creams, powders and wipes etc. for use at the school for children who are not yet toilet trained. Please check your child's diaper supplies daily.
When children begin the toilet training process, please dress them in clothing which they can manage by themselves. Practice with your child at home, so that they will feel confident in their dressing skills. Items like belts, suspenders and tight fitting clothing make it difficult for your child to master the toilet training process.
The washroom process requires patience and time. It is common for the child to regress temporarily during this routine. We feel that it is important for the washroom routine to be a positive time for the child and when "accidents" occur, gentle reminders are given with an encouraging attitude for the "next time".
Snack and LunchtimeSnacks and lunches are prepared at the school by a qualified food handler that provides healthy, delicious, child-friendly meals and snacks to the children are well balanced and nutritious. All meals are served in a happy, relaxed atmosphere where staff join the children at the table and encourage the children to eat so they look forward to meal and snack time.
Sleep TimeSleep time allows the teacher(s) to comfort each child individually. All children are expected to take a nap or have quiet time lying down after lunch. This is necessary for the child to regain their energy. Sleep time is from 12:30 pm -2:30 pm. The school provides the cot and sheets and we ask that each child bring a blanket (which is sent home weekly for washing).
Field TripsThe school schedules field trips throughout the year designed to complement our curriculum goals. Toddler parents/guardians MUST accompany children on all trips (one: one). Parents will be notified of each trip well in advance and individual permission slips must be signed and returned before the child can participate.
DisciplineThe Toddler Program has a Behaviour Management Policy. It is our policy to set limits with boundaries for children to ensure a safe and secure environment. A positive approach is taken when disciplining children and we help children to: express themselves using words, understand another person's point of view and reflect on their own feelings. Children are only removed from a situation if the conflict is not resolved. The child may rejoin the group whenever they feel that they can interact appropriately. Leaving the decision up to the child enhances their self-esteem and promotes self-control. You are welcome to discuss any questions concerning discipline with us.
Our Curriculum's Focus:- Cognitive Skills with activities and educational materials to encourage memory development
- Sensory Development with the help of infant Montessori materials
- Motor Skills, helping children reach their appropriate milestones
- Stimulating growth by using materials and activities that encourage each child to explore, learn and solve problems
- Expressive Language Development, by using songs, words, gestures, stories, etc.