It’s the end of the year and time has flown by. The children came back from Spring break and everyone had grown. Some children looked older with their new haircuts. Some children moved up a size in clothes, but what I noticed the most was how well everyone was working. Some of the younger children wanted to help with snack prep and help with animal and plant care. The older children became more focused on their work and enjoyed working on their own. More children are now participating in large group which means they are all able to sit longer, share better, and wait their turn. Each year is always a tremendous journey.
With Children from eighteen months to three years old in one classroom many different wants and needs are being met. While some toddlers are fiercely independent some are reserved and unsure how to take that first step toward independence. Our older children are starting to make those first friendships. They work with each other instead of next to each other. They try out new words and sentences to see how it might pertain to their world. Most of all, our classroom has grown together in accepting each other. One of the older children helps the younger ones with their shoes to go outside. The others are putting on their own shoes and are flipping their jackets wanting to learn how to start their zipper.
Our classroom is full of life and happiness. There isn’t a day that goes by that I go home without a smile. I’ll think of a hug I got that day or a child telling me a story at snack. I’m not sure if you all know this or not but toddlers are great story tellers. It doesn’t matter if a child can speak in full sentences or just one word at a time. They have the best stories. I have learned this from the youngest child in my class. We have the best conversations all the time. So, at this time I wanted to thank you for sharing your wonderful children with us at Montessori Radmoor. We learn together every day.
Keep in mind summer will be here before you know it. Spend time having conversations, looking at bugs together, and listening to the noises outside. The toddlers want to use their five senses. They love to listen for the train, taste watermelon, and look for the smallest items on the ground. Summer is the best time to do these kinds of activities.
We have a fieldtrip on May 22nd to the MSU Children’s Gardens and International Night next week. This is a perfect time to start those conversations and share those special moments that will become your best memories.
Enjoy the rest of the school year!
Kristy