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Toddlers (18-36 Months)
When our Cuddlebugs (infants) are strong on their feet, they are soon ready to move into a Jitterbug classroom. We understand that curious, independent toddlers are growing rapidly and need a safe environment that supports their development. Our Jitterbugs therefore begin to participate in structured activities that are designed to encourage the development of their fine and gross motor skills, listening and speaking skills, and early literacy skills.
Our Jitterbug program is purposefully designed to be flexible – our staff provides the children with the materials and guidance necessary to enjoy varied learning experiences, but adapts each and every activity to meet the children’s changing needs, tap into their emerging interests, and engage their curious minds!
We maintain a child to staff ration of 5:1 for our Jitterbugs; small group sizes are essential in meeting the needs of active toddlers. The parent partnership is strengthened in this classroom; children can begin to verbalize their feelings to the parents and teachers, and teachers continue to document each child’s eating, resting, toileting, and behavior habits on a daily report. Parents are, of course, encouraged to call and visit regularly.
Daily Schedule:
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6:30 - 8:30
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Self Interest Activities
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- This relaxed early morning period allows the children to enjoy self-selected books, toys, games, and learning center activities. Toddlers gradually greet and interact with their teachers and classmates.
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8:30 – 11:30
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Morning Activities
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- Circle Time – This “morning meeting” allows children to enjoy language development activities (songs, poems, fingerplays, and stories), daily exercise, and other classroom specific routines.
- Small Group Activities – Children participate in various theme-related learning centers, including arts & crafts, dramatic play, fine motor skill builders and sensory experiences.
- Gross Motor/Outdoor Play – Toddlers stretch their growing muscles daily as they play cooperative games, play in the indoor gym, and enjoy the great outdoors!
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11:30 – 12:00
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Hot, Nutritious Lunch
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12:00 – 12:30
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Story Time and Morning Program Departure
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- As some toddlers prepare to go home, the class enjoys stories, books on tape, and other relaxing media to wind down for rest time.
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12:30 – 2:30
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Rest Period
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2:30 – 3:15
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Wake Up Routines and Snack Time
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3:15 – 4:15
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Happy Hour
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- Our toddlers participate in additional open-ended learning activities, centered on art experience, music & movement, and literature.
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4:15 – 6:30
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Outdoor Play & Self-Interest Activities
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- As the toddlers prepare to go home, they enjoy group games, outdoor play, and self-selected learning centers (block play, art activities, dramatic play, sensory activities, etc.).
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The Doodle Bugs! Difference:
Doodle Bugs! delivers what we promise – each and every day, you can expect spotless, secure surroundings, consistent, professional staff, and an educational program that is unparalleled in the industry.
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