Toddler Curriculum
(18 months - 3 years)

DEVELOPMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS

The toddler years are marked by rapid growth, independence and self -discovery. Children absorb their environment naturally and are driven to move, communicate and do things on their own.

A Montessori toddler environment supports this growth through freedom within limits, building confidence, coordination and order while encouraging independent exploration.

Through purposeful work in a thoughtfully prepared Montessori environment, children develop independence, refine coordination and movement, expand language skills, and strengthen concentration and a sense of order. Guided by their natural curiosity and opportunities for hands-on exploration, children build confidence, develop social awareness, and form meaningful connections with others.

Practical Life is the foundation of the toddler classroom. Through real, purposeful activities, children develop independence, coordination and confidence. These activities allow children to care for themselves and their environment in meaningful ways.

Experiences include:

• Pouring, spooning, transferring and simple food preparation

• Washing hands, dressing and toileting routines

• Caring for the classroom through sweeping, wiping and organizing

• Watering plants and participating in simple care of the environment

These activities support concentration, independence and a growing

sense of responsibility.

Montessori Pink Tower Classroom Display_

Toddlers are in a sensitive period for sensory exploration. Sensorial materials help children refine their senses and begin to classify the world around them.

Materials and activities include:

• Matching and sorting by color, shape and size

• Texture exploration with fabrics and sensory boards

• Sound discrimination with simple instruments and sound cylinders

• Shape puzzles and knobbed materials

Through these experiences, children develop observation skills and begin

to recognize patterns and differences.

Language development flourishes during the toddler years. The environment is rich in conversation, storytelling, and vocabulary-building experiences that support communication and self expression.

Key Experiences include:

• Object naming using real objects and picture cards

• Classified vocabulary (animals, foods, clothing, etc.)

• Songs, rhymes, and fingerplays

• Daily read-alouds and storytelling

• Encouragement of verbal expression and communication

These experiences support vocabulary expansion, comprehension and

confidence in communication.

Colorful Montessori Bead Pyramid on Wood.png

Mathematical understanding begins through concrete, hands-on experiences. Toddlers naturally explore concepts of order, quantity and relationships through their work.

Activities include:

• Sorting and matching objects

• One-to-one correspondence through counting everyday items

• Sequencing and patterning

• Stacking, nesting and comparing sizes

These early experiences lay the foundation for later mathematical

understanding in the primary classroom.

Toddlers are naturally curious about the world around them. Science is introduced through exploration, observation and hands-on experiences.

Activities include:

• Learning the names of animals and plants

• Observing nature, weather and seasonal changes

• Caring for plants and participating in simple gardening

• Exploring natural objects such as leaves, rocks and shells

These experiences foster curiosity and a respect for the natural world.

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Toddlers begin to develop an awareness of the world beyond themselves. Cultural experiences introduce diversity and build a sense of belonging.

Experiences include:

• Introduction to land and water using a simple globe

• Songs, stories and music from different cultures

• Exposure to diverse foods, traditions and celebrations

• Children begin to understand that they are part of a larger world and

community.

Art and music provide toddlers with opportunities for creative expression and sensory exploration. Activities are process -focused, allowing children to explore freely.

Experiences include:

• Drawing with crayons and chalk

• Painting and simple collage work

• Clay and sensory art materials

• Singing songs, movement, and rhythm activities

• Introduction to simple instruments such as bells and shakers

These activities encourage creativity, coordination and joy in self-expression.

Minimalist Wooden September Calendar_edited.jpg

History for toddlers is rooted in routine and the development of a sense of order. Children begin to understand sequences and patterns in their daily lives.

Experiences include:

• Consistent daily routines and transitions

• Awareness of time through daily activities

• Recognition of seasonal changes and family traditions

Through repetition and structure, children develop a foundational

understanding of time and sequence.

Toddler Curriculum (18 months - 3 years)

Toddler Curriculum
(18 months - 3 years)