Toddler II
Language Arts
Children begin to develop a basic love and understanding of books, and begin to acquire book handling skills. Children also begin to speak in small sentences; and are asked to follow two or more step directions. Children are encouraged to answer more open-ended questions while listening to new stories. They participate in show and share activities with teacher assistance and express themselves through dramatic play.
Math
During this year, children acquire many new math skills and review math skills which were previously acquired. They increase their ability to recognize colors and shapes, and master stacking objects. They also complete simple puzzles and use shape sorters. Children begin to identify basic similarities and differences between various objects and people and expand their understanding of positional words like “on top of” and “underneath.”
Science and Social Studies
Science and Social Studies encourage children to delve into the world around them. Children continue their exploration of bodies in space by mastering the naming of basic body parts and begin to identify their uses. Using their five senses, children discover reactions to an action by observing weather and exploring rocks and sand. Through Social Studies, children begin to understand and follow rules. Teachers assist children in labeling their emotions and children respond positively to changes in daily routines and schedules.
Fine Motor and Gross Motor
Gross motor skills are essential for the complete development of a child. Children attempt to practice basic hygiene with teacher assistance. They also stretch, lift and kick a ball short distances. They hop, dance and even skip. Fine motor skills are also essential for the complete development of a child. These skills are established through experimentation with more difficult puzzles, stacking blocks and using a fork and spoon with control.
Social Skills
Children develop social skills by making simple choices, amusing themselves independently, and verbally responding to adults. Children begin to participate in parallel play, begin to share with adult help and begin to engage in empathy.
Individualized Learning
Children learn at their own rate. At Cambridge, we support this educational concept with our curriculum and offer Individualized Learning. Through our program materials and through our classroom designs, we strive to create environments that allow children to work side by side while growing at their own rate toward their individualized goals.