Toddler Time At Glow ELC
September is "Toddler Time" at Glow Early Learning Centre. This is a fantastic opportunity to focus on the unique developmental needs and activities for toddlers. Here’s some important things to know about terrific toddlers:
Understanding Toddlers
Age Range: Toddlers are generally between 1 and 3 years old. This stage is marked by rapid growth and development in various areas, including language, motor skills, and social interactions.
Developmental Milestones:
Language: Toddlers start forming sentences and expanding their vocabulary.
Motor Skills: They improve their ability to walk, run, climb, and manipulate objects with increasing dexterity.
Cognitive Skills: They begin to solve simple problems, understand basic concepts like "big" and "small," and engage in imaginative play.
Social and Emotional Growth: This is a time when toddlers learn to express their emotions, interact with peers, and develop a sense of self. They might experience a range of feelings and need guidance in managing them.
Activities for Toddler Time
Sensory Play: Create sensory stations with materials like sand, water, playdough, and textured fabrics. Sensory play helps toddlers explore their world and supports cognitive development.
Story Time: Incorporate interactive story sessions with picture books that involve the children. Use props and encourage them to participate by making animal sounds or mimicking actions from the story.
Art and Craft: Simple crafts such as finger painting, collage with safe materials, and stamping with various objects can help develop fine motor skills and creativity.
Music and Movement: Sing songs, play musical instruments, and engage in movement activities like dancing or simple exercise routines. This supports motor skills and rhythm recognition.
Imaginative Play: Set up role-play areas where toddlers can act out various scenarios, like a mini kitchen or a pretend grocery store. This encourages social interaction and creative thinking.
Outdoor Activities: If possible, organize outdoor playtime with activities like running, climbing, or playing with balls. Outdoor play is essential for physical development and allows toddlers to explore their environment.
Building and Construction: Provide building blocks or large, safe construction toys. This helps with hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills.
Benefits of having your toddlers at Glow Early Learning Centre
Social Interaction: Provides toddlers with valuable opportunities to interact with their peers, fostering social skills and friendships.
Developmental Support: Tailored activities support various aspects of development, from motor skills to emotional regulation.
Structured Environment: A consistent routine and environment help toddlers feel secure and enhance their learning experience.
Celebrating toddlers is a great way to recognize and support the incredible growth that happens during these formative years while making learning fun and engaging for little ones.