NHTI Child and Family Development Center
Family Toddler Environment Images and Descriptions

Family (toddler) environment. The toddlers are in a mixed age grouping ranging from 18mos to 3yrs. Young preschool children may stay in this classroom until developmentally ready to move into the preschool. This room is spacious, with room to move easily between areas so that the newly development motor skills can be exercised! A corner of the room is devoted to special projects, which in the case of this age group, can change rapidly. At the time of this photograph, the children were exploring growing things - a project which translated easily from outdoor exploration to indoor growth of plants, to the outdoors again.

Playing with large blocks increases toddler motor control and strength. Props of many kinds are provided so that toddlers can easily represent experiences from home or their outings with their families.

A loft which can be reconfigured in many ways is a popular and useful part of the room. Whether children want to use the quiet space underneath or the active space on top, the loft is always busy. Other opportunities for gross motor development include a tunnel, tent, parachute, balls and bikes.

Toddlers are astute observers of life, and 'how things are done.' In dramatic play, we see these children re-enact what they have seen, and provide interesting materials that they might find in their own homes.

Since toddlers are developing language at an incredible rate, reading aloud to children is an important aspect of the program. A cozy loveseat that can seat several children around a teacher means that they can cuddle up for a story at any time.

At all times, we try to connect school with family, as well as focus on the developing sense of identity in the toddler children. So, all around the room are photos of the children themselves, their families, and familiar items.