Toddler 1

Objectives and Goals

Welcome to Northshore Christian Academy’s Early Learning Center Toddler program!

At this age, children are learning to play together and follow directions. Toddlers have high energy and excitement, which facilitates their growth and learning. We channel that energy into positive learning experiences, giving toddlers room to move and explore through cooperative and side-by-side play in the classroom and at recess. Circle time is a wonderful opportunity for our children to sing and learn together. Our toddler teachers provide nurturing guidance as the children develop their physical skills and master emerging milestones. Most of all the love of Jesus and the Bible are shared throughout their day.

SPIRITUAL LIFE

Northshore Christian Academy filters all learning and curriculum through a Biblical world-view. We endeavor to train children spiritually, academically, and personally. Northshore integrates faith and learning as we equip the whole child to develop leadership qualities in the context of their God-given abilities and talents. The entire process of education is used to bring children into fellowship with God, develop a Christ-like mind, and to develop their God-given personal and vocational potential.

Bible: Children will be taught Biblical concepts and stories that will teach them godly character qualities. They will practice applying these qualities in their daily life including opportunities for serving others. Children look to Staff Members as an example of a relationship with God. This will allow children to develop their own relationship with the Lord through daily prayer and worship.

ACADEMIC LIFE

Language:

We immerse our children in language every day to help them develop a rich vocabulary through the reading books and teaching basic sign language to assist with communication.

Math:

Our Toddler classes incorporate math concepts through counting and sorting with various learning objects, such as snacks, toys, and in nature.

Social Studies:

Our themes help children explore the world around them, creating rich experiences and introductions to the world beyond their own front door through art projects and the reading of literature.

Science:

Our themes help children explore the world around them, creating rich experiences and introductions to the world beyond their own front door through songs, art projects, sensory bins, and the reading of literature.

Art:

Art experiences are many and varied to encourage children to explore both self-directed and teacher-directed projects.

Music:

We have dedicated music lessons once a week in each of our classes, taught by our very own Music Teacher. Music is incorporated however into everyday during Circle Time, transitions, and many other times.

Movement:

Children are encouraged to explore new ways for their bodies to move through indoor activities, such as song and dance and outdoor activities in nature with jumping, hopping and simple games.

Developmental milestones 1 to 2 years*

Movement

Walks independently/ Transition to running
Drinks from cup without help

Hand and finger skills

Stacks 2 objects or blocks
Scribbles
Picks up small objects and drops into the container
Tries to feed self with spoon

Language milestones

May use 5 – 10 words
Tries to talk (babbles) and repeat words

Cognitive milestones

Points to body parts (eyes, nose, mouth) when named
Responds to questions of yes/no with shake/nod of head
Understands 50 or more words
Consistently follows simple directions
Understands new words quickly
Looks for hidden objects – developing object permanence
Uses problem solving strategies

Social milestones

Increased independent/side-by-side play
Imitates adults – sweeping, talking on phone, etc.

Emotional milestones

Separates from parents with minimal distress after 2 weeks and engages with trusted adults
Shows emotions: happy and sad
Separates from parents with minimal distress and engages with trusted adults
Limited tantrums: uses words like “no” and “mine”