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Welcome to the 2 Year Old Program
Age 2: Ratio 1:8
We believe in creating many life long, positive memories in our classroom. This classroom is filled with children at that age who are constantly seeking attention and praise daily. This is the room where they see themselves as independent individuals who love having all eyes on them! Yes, the two year old stage can be challenging, but our classroom is especially created for children whom we adore. From circle time to outside play to toilet training, it all happens in here. We enjoy caring for your child on a daily basis and look forward to getting to know your family. Below is an overview of what to expect from the Under the Sea classroom.
Self-help Skills:
A big part of being two years old is becoming independent. It is a very confusing time for the child and can be very frustrating for us adults as well. Here are a few things we will be encouraging your child to do on their own. We would greatly appreciate you to do the same as much as possible.
• Pulling up and down their pants • Drinking from a cup without a lid
• Putting on/off their coat • Washing hands
• Putting on/off their shoes • Using their words
• Using fork/spoon
Potty Training:
When your child is about 2 ½ years old we will be encouraging them to use the toilet. They will probably have started to show signs of readiness. Then we will begin teaching them the skills they will need to toilet train. Information will be available at any given time we feel the child is ready!
Expressive Art:
When the children are expressing themselves through art they tend to be messy. We will do our best to keep them clean by providing smocks and washing them off right away. There are going to be times when they will still have art evidence from their creative side when you come to pick-up. Please keep in mind they are exploring and having fun.
Academics:
We are not just gong to be coloring and painting. We believe your child can begin their education right here in our classroom! We will work with ABC’s, 123’s, shapes, and colors. We will encourage the children to learn to identify as much as possible. There will be many activities that will go on in the classroom. Many activities include being read to daily, learning new songs, learning from flashcards, simple sign and Spanish, practicing with scissors much, much more. Along with that they will get to explore with sensory activities such as water, textures, shaving cream, goop, and much more!
Curriculum Portfolios:
Beginning with the 2 year old classroom, in addition to the academics program, we will introduce curriculum portfolios to the children. Curriculum Portfolios are specifically designed to age and have many different activities within the folder that measures your child’s skill level. Teachers keep track of your child’s progress through out the year and measure their developing skills. Each curriculum portfolio is kept in the classroom and will transition with your child into the next classroom. At the end of June, each child will be given their curriculum portfolio for parents to review. Teachers also have the opportunity to comment on their developing skills through out the year. Feedback to parents is extremely important while your child is in care. Please feel free to browse through a sample curriculum portfolio to see what your child will be learning.
Naptime:
After lunch the children will lay down for a nap. We encourage them to sleep and will help them by sitting next to them and rubbing backs. Not all children sleep and that’s ok. Please bring in a blanket for your child to have at rest time and if they need a stuffed animal. Please limit to one blanket and one stuffed animal. Please label all belongings. All blankets must be taken home to be cleaned by the end of the week.
Family picture:
Sometimes the children may get sad or upset and to see a face that they know is calming for them. So we ask that you provide a family photo to be displayed in the classroom.
Star of the Week:
Each child will have a turn to shine and show off things about themselves. With the help of family they can create a display poster with pictures highlighting family members, favorite toys, foods they like etc. BE CREATIVE AND HAVE FUN! The teachers will notify you by letter when it is your child’s turn.
Pacifiers:
We understand that every child is different. If your child is still taking a pacifier we will help you break the habit. We will allow it ONLY during nap time. It must be left in the hallway cubbies. We will try not to use it at all. We will keep you posted of the progress and hopefully together we can help eliminate that habit.
Children’s File Folders:
Each child will have a file folder in which teachers will place their daily art work, projects, and information from teachers and management. Please remember to check it every night upon pick up.
Items needed for our classroom:
1. Blanket for naptime, labeled
2. extra clothes, a complete set, labeled
3. diapers
4. wipes
5. rash cream, labeled
6. Family photo
Wish List:
We are always very grateful for anything that you no longer need or use, that we could use in the classroom. Donations are always welcomed. Any old treasures will be new treasures in our classroom! Please feel free to donate items of no use from your family. We can turn anything into art projects or sensory items in a flash!!!
Should you have any questions regarding our classroom, philosophies, policies or procedures, please don’t hesitate to ask. We are here to provide high quality care for your child and give your peace of mind. Thank you.
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