The Little Hands toddler environment is carefully planned to meet the needs of 1 ½ to 3 ½  year olds. The classroom is designed to encourage exploration, independence, order, and freedom of choice and movement. The room is organized for the toddler’s convenience. Areas of learning are defined, yet the space is open to allow plenty of room for interaction and activities required for growth and development. These include large muscle movement and fine motor exercises for hand-eye coordination.

The toddler curriculum provides for both individual and group activities. Practical Life exercises such as pouring, sweeping, dusting, buttoning, zipping, and table setting are introduced early. These provide opportunities for children to care for themselves and their environment. Lessons of manners and graceful movement are practiced daily to help toddlers learn to share and to be considerate of others.

Another characteristic of the toddler class is the range of manipulative exercise, which includes knobbed puzzles, bead stringing, and other basic Montessori sensorial materials. These are designed to heighten the child’s senses and are unique to the Montessori environment. Other activities included are music, singing, and storytelling.

The outdoor area is equally important with plenty of safe, tree shaded areas to run and climb and roll in the grass. A large covered patio provides space for the little ones to ride tricycles, and pull wagons to their delight. Gardens are planted and tended by the children and teachers and the vegetables and flowers become a part of snack and beautifying the classroom.