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Toddler Community

The Reggio Emilia Approach curriculum in a toddler classroom is centered around the belief that toddlers are active and capable learners who construct their own understanding of the world through exploration, communication, and relationships. We value the child’s natural curiosity, creativity, and problemsolving abilities, encouraging them to take an active role in their learning journey.

In our Reggio Emilia Approach-inspired toddler classrooms, the environment plays a central role. It is carefully designed to be a “third teacher,” meaning that we offer a variety of materials that promotes learning and development. The environment is organized to encourage curiosity, independence, and hands-on exploration. For toddlers, this may include open-ended materials such as blocks, art supplies, sensory objects, natural elements, and real-world objects that invite experimentation and imaginative play.

Teachers in our toddler classrooms are seen as co-learners and facilitators. Rather than directing activities, teachers observe and listen to the toddlers closely, understanding their interests, questions, and ideas. They offer gentle guidance and support, setting up learning experiences that build on the child’s natural interests. For example, if a toddler shows an interest in stacking objects, the teacher might introduce more complex materials or suggest activities that encourage problem-solving, such as puzzles or simple building projects. Teachers also encourage communication and collaboration, helping toddlers express their thoughts and feelings through words, gestures, and actions.

Documentation is an important aspect of the Reggio Emilia Approach. We regularly observe and document the children’s activities, conversations, and interactions. This documentation not only helps us reflect on the child’s development but also gives parents insight into their child's day and growth. Documentation may also be used to highlight patterns of learning or emerging interests, which can inform the planning of future activities.

Language development is a key focus in the toddler years. Our teachers place great emphasis on rich, responsive communication. We engage toddlers in conversation, ask open-ended questions, and respond to their verbal and nonverbal cues. Language is seen not only as a way to communicate but also as a tool for thinking and problemsolving. In addition to spoken language, toddlers are encouraged to express themselves through other ways, such as drawing, music, dance, or movement.

Our curriculum is emergent, meaning that it evolves based on the interests and ideas of the children. Teachers plan activities based on what the toddlers are curious about or learning in the moment, which makes learning more meaningful and engaging. For example, if several toddlers express interest in animals, the teacher might create activities related to animal sounds, books about animals, or nature walks to observe animals in their environment.

​​​​One of our toddlers’ favorite activities is to get messy and explore with their whole bodies. Sensory development is a key component for little growing bodies—it helps with emotional regulation, fine and gross motor skills, coordination, problem solving, sorting, and also builds nerve connections that allow for complex thinking skills. Our toddlers participate in one to two hours of sensory play per day.

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6720 Chimney Rock Rd.

Houston, TX 77081

info@mays.school

713-669-9286

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Mon - Fri: 6:30am - 5:30pm

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