The last month has flown by as we had the privilege of getting to know each of our new toddlers that have transitioned into our classroom. Starting something new can feel big and uncertain but we have worked hard to cultivate a space for comfort, curiosity and connection. From the very first day, the toddlers have been busy exploring their environment while building bonds with their educators and peers.
Inside the classroom the book center has been a popular place to spend time. Snuggling up with an educator to listen to a book, looking through the pictures independently or sharing a story alongside a peer. This area is also a great spot to listen to songs. We often play music in the classroom, sometimes calming piano, other times common children's songs to enjoy and sometimes we get a full-blown dance party happening! The windows in this area give us a great view of the school busses in the morning and afternoon, educators are often found there singing The Wheels on the Bus to the children as they watch fascinated.
The dramatic play area is also a common area for the toddlers to explore. As they create pretend meals with the toy food and dishes to serve to their peers and educators, we get the opportunity to develop our communication skills and sense of self. We discuss our own favourite foods and foods we eat at home. The dramatic play area also provides the opportunity for the children to explore different roles as they act out scenarios, they observe their parents and caregivers doing. We have baby dolls, blankets and cradles to care for, and we even have child sized broom and dustpan, mop and other pretend cleaning supplies. This type of play helps young ones make sense of the world around them. They develop social skills as they interact with their peers while developing their language skills, creativity and imagination.
Outside, the children have a whole other environment to explore. From our bikes, balls, the swings, hammock and of course the sandbox there is so much to do and see. Our natural playground encourages curiosity as the children can notice the changing leaves, a bug crawling across the log or what may be growing in the gardens. Recently, the toddlers have taken to the ball ramp. They send the small balls from the top and watch as it rolls down, down, down each level of the ramp until it is collected in a box at the bottom. As they repeat this, they are exploring the concept of cause and effect. What happens if they put their hand in the way? What if they give the ball an extra push? What if we put a bit of mulch on the ramp? Through this exploration they are developing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills!
We have had such a great time getting to know each individual in our room, building a sense of belonging and encouraging curiosity and creativity. We are looking forward to what the rest of the year holds as we continue to learn and grow together.
