Infant/Toddler Programs

"The importance of a child's infant and toddler years cannot be overstated, for this is when the development of the personality occurs. Today, care of young children is increasing provided by people other than parents. These infants and toddler specialists need to be aware, knowledgeable, and qualified so that children will develop the skills, strengths, and support systems they need to create the foundations of the adults they will become; and the kind of world they create tomorrow." - Virginia Vargus, CMTE NY, AMS Master Teacher Trainer

Infant Program (Ages 6 weeks-18 months)

TMDS offers programs for infant care starting at 6 weeks. Our infant teacher ratio is low, often less than 5-1 depending on the age. We encourage young infants to be at our school no longer than 6 hours per day. Every effort is taken to provide infants with as much 1-1 time as possible.

Infants are divided into developmental groupings: babies, crawlers and walkers. Separate classroom areas for sleeping, eating, educational materials and large motor development provide a variety of stimulating learning environments during each day.

Utmost care is taken to provide a clean, inviting atmosphere where the children can thrive. Attention to the physical needs of the children is constant and ongoing. Staff members keep a daily information log for each child. Parents appreciate the close communication.

Teachers read, sing songs, and play interactive games with the children in the classroom. Children learn about the world through exploration on their daily trips outdoors. All infants are involved in daily social activities.

Toddler Program (Ages 18 months-2 1/2 yrs)

Dr. Montessori recognized the sensitivities of the toddler in the areas of independence, order, movement and language as the key elements in the child's growth and development during the toddler period.

For many children this is their first experience in an environment other than home.
Care is given to assist the young child and parent in handling separation and in making this a positive and healthy experience.
The furniture and materials are custom-sized to allow for the maximum exploration and development of the senses.
The environment is modified as the child grows emotionally, physically, and intellectually.
Children are allowed and encouraged to be a functioning member of the classroom. This leads to a feeling of pride, dignity and self respect.

Toddlers focus on learning the skills that will develop independence and preschool readiness.

A typical day for your child would consist of individual indoor work time, snack time (a favorite of most), outdoor playtime, music, reading stories, lunchtime, nap time and other enriching activities.
Toddlers respond differently to the adventure of "going to school", so the teaching staff is trained to observe and facilitate the process. The average separation time is one week, but it may be longer or shorter, depending on the individual child. Parents and staff will be in communication daily, so that on a timely basis.
Within the frame work of respect for children and their unique personalities, teachers guide children along their path to independence by providing a flexible, safe and nurturing learning environment.
Following the developmental needs of young children, our experienced teaching team has developed a well respected program for infants and toddlers.

The team's dedication, teaching skills and charming manner with children have earned praise from parents and results with children.

We invite you to make an appointment to visit the program. We are sure you will be delighted with the children and their progress.