The Montessori toddler program, designed for children aged 18 months to three years, is geared toward whole-child development. This educational philosophy operates on the belief that every aspect of a child has value and that well-being comes from developing all aspects.
While traditional education programs focus primarily on cognitive development, holistic toddler programs like Montessori recognize the importance of giving equal attention to physical, emotional, and social development. How does this work in practice, and why is it so important?
Cognitive Development
Cognitive development is important at every stage of a child’s growth. From birth to age six, children experience a period of growth known as the “absorbent mind,” characterized by an innate ability to absorb information. Encouraging creativity and exploration at this young age creates the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
That is why Montessori toddler programs include cognitive tasks that support creative thinking through exploration and problem-solving. Children in these programs engage in self-directed activities that allow them to explore their interests, work independently, and learn at their own pace.
Physical Development
Children learn about the world using all their senses, which is why Montessori toddler programs include physical development activities.
In these programs, children take breaks and move around throughout the day. They also engage in movement activities like walking, singing, dancing, climbing, and hands-on learning that help them develop coordination and motor skills.
Emotional Development
Young children are filled with emotions that they don’t yet know how to identify or manage. They rely on adults to provide information and model behaviors that teach them healthy ways to express these emotions.
In the toddler program, this starts with providing a supportive environment where children feel safe expressing themselves. They learn to identify and regulate their emotions through activities that increase self-awareness, teach emotional intelligence, and promote empathy.
Social Development
People don’t exist in a vacuum, and children need to develop social skills to participate in society and form healthy relationships. The Montessori method helps toddlers learn to interact with classmates respectfully. This includes lessons geared toward cooperation, sharing, taking turns, civility, and resolving conflicts.
The prepared environment facilitates both individual and group learning and play. In addition, older children in multi-age classrooms are encouraged to help and support younger peers, and toddlers are exposed to different cultures and customs.
Why Is Whole-Child Development So Important?
Cognitive development is important, but children don’t just learn with their minds. They use their whole bodies to absorb information about the world. The Montessori method aligns with the way children naturally learn to encourage the full development of the mind, body, and spirit.
Research has shown that child-directed learning that allows for play, movement, and self-expression results in students who are not only more academically successful but also more capable of regulating their emotions and behaviors.
Unlike traditional school settings, where the focus is almost exclusively on cognition and academia, Montessori programs embrace the development of the whole child to promote well-being and create lifelong learners and leaders.
Embrace a Holistic Approach to Learning With a Montessori Toddler Program
The curriculum and environment in a Montessori program will encourage your child’s natural proclivities for self-directed learning and facilitate whole-child development. This holistic approach aims to support the well-being of every child and prepare them for primary and elementary programs.
If you’re ready to learn more about the programs available through Montessori West, contact us now to schedule a tour.
