Montessori Academy of Indianapolis

Nurturing the spirit of your child

The Academy / Our Curriculum / Toddler / 

Toddler

Montessori Academy of Indianapolis provides an environment specifically suited to the developmental needs of very young children to become more self-sufficient and capable by following the directives of Dr. Montessori's philosophy. Dr. Montessori had a special vision for the very young child, and we manifest this in our Toddler program.

Here children 12 to 36 months learn to care for themselves and interact with one another and their environment in an atmosphere of loving support and respect. Materials and equipment are especially designed to help little muscles develop coordination, helping the child gain independence and self-esteem. Special attention is given to the development of expressive and comprehensive language skills.




The individual work time finds children involved in activities that include the use of language-enrichment materials; eye/hand coordination materials (many varied kinds, including sewing and gluing), and practical life materials (preparing, serving, and cleanup of one's food, for example). Language and coordination activities can be included easily in anything having to do with caring for one's environment or oneself.


The Toddler community is kept small, intimate, and flexible with regard to planned activities so that the needs of the children are adhered to at all times rather than a plan created by the adults. There should be a feeling of joy in this environment as these young children are given freedom. They are not given license to do whatever they want, but they are given freedom within a structure that caters to their developmental needs.