News from Toddler-2
Welcoming November means there are only six more weeks left in the semester. October was full of so much growth in the children.
First we want to highlight our month of October. The children have really gotten used to our daily schedule which means less tears throughout the day. Separation is easier at drop off. The smiles and hugs we get each morning are the perfect way to start the day. We continue to engage with the children in learning through play, block building and counting, shape sorting, baby care and cooking in the dramatic play area.
This month we added some small group fine motor activities like pipe cleaners and strainers and drilled holes in a pumpkin for the same type of activity. We focused on interactions with books to promote language and the continued repeat of favorite books like Brown Bear and a new favorite Pete the Cat.
Art continues to be explored in various ways, stamp art, easel art with brushes, dot art, foam painting, bubble wrap painting and the all time favorite, finger paint!
Repeating 
activities allows the children to become comfortable with sensory and creative exploration. For example, a child who dislikes to get his hands in the paint finally (with encouragement) got both hands in the finger paint!
The children are beginning to sit for Group Time each day, sometimes for over 15 minutes. Again, this is an example of the children adjusting to our routine. Group time include books, music and movement as well as some felt board activities; like Little Mouse, Five Little Monkeys, and Five Little Ducks.
For the month of November, we will be more focused on fostering independence. We have asked that you take your child to their cubby and hang up their coats, we do this because when we come inside after outdoor time, we need the children to go to their cubbies to take off their outside clothing. You can be involved by helping remove your children’s hats, gloves, and coats. We will also encourage children to wash their own hands, get their own paper towel and we will help with taking their dishes to the bucket when they are finished eating. Another big goal is using eating utensils. We will encourage children to use forks and spoons versus hands to eat, we will also continue to allow the children opportunities to drink from open cups. At Naptime the children will learn to take off their own shoes. This is especially helpful for our older toddlers turning two. While independent goals for the younger children looks different, we still encourage independence where it is possible.
Reminders
- Our conference dates are set: Pam-November 4 and Eisa November 17. Sign up!
- Please keep in mind that we go outside everyday so dress your child accordingly.
- We will need hats, gloves, snow pants and boots as the weather gets colder. Please label all gear with child’s initials. The fresh air is the best way to keep the children healthy.
- Our goal is one hour of outside time everyday , this may be shorter times outside or going out two times a day.
- Our afternoon outside time is 3:15-3:45 on the Gable playground, although some days we may use the main playground.
