Toddler
An academic program for students 15 to 36 months old.
Some refer to this developmental period as “The Terrible Twos.” We disagree; toddlers are terrific. We love everything about them – their energy, determination, and curiosity – and purposefully created a very special place for your toddler to learn.
An environment conducive to learning
Where so many early childhood programs are chaotic and overwhelming, parents are often surprised to see the peaceful tone of our toddler classroom. The calm atmosphere and lack of distraction help your toddler to develop impulse control and concentration, planting the seeds for learning in this classroom and beyond.
A community
Our students grow together into a close-knit, caring community. When children work, learn, and grow together, they learn much more than any of them could learn alone!
“Help me to do it myself”
Your child has a natural drive to be independent which we encourage by creating an environment where everything is just the right size for children to do things on their own. Child-sized tools that fit tiny hands allow your toddler to prepare a snack and serve it to friends. A miniature broom empowers independent clean-up. We teach the skills of self-care and toilet training. Your child learns a set of concrete life skills and self-confidence – but, more importantly, understands how to make a genuine impact on the world.
A beautiful environment
Our bright and sunny toddler classrooms are specially designed for your child between the ages of 15 months/walking to 36 months. It is a world scaled down to your child’s size. Here, your child paints, cooks, waters the garden, sings songs with friends and plays with materials that develop fine and gross motor coordination.
Absorbing language
We surround your child with rich and stimulating conversation to support this once-in-a-lifetime period of rapid language development. Your child, trying to blow bubbles, might be encouraged with “Blow! Can you make the air move just like the wind?” Your child’s mind effortlessly absorbs the new vocabulary, which plants the seeds for reading, writing, and self-expression in the future.
A joyful experience
Maria Montessori once said, “One test of the correctness of the educational procedure is the happiness of the child.” Take a peek into our Toddler classroom and you will see children who are happy, engaged, and deeply connected to their friends and teachers. As a result, your child develops a deep affinity for school and a true love for learning.
Ready to move up
Sometime between the ages of 2 1/2 to 3 years of age, your child’s language skills and self-expression will develop rapidly and you will see an increase in confidence, in independence, as well as a keen interest in broader concepts. Your child will want to know what lies ahead, outside of the Toddler Classroom. At this point, it is time to move up to the Primary program, which is designed for children from the ages of 3 to 6.
Families are encouraged to schedule a tour to explore our prepared learning environment.
Frequently asked questions about our Toddler Program
Do you offer varying schedules for the Toddler program?
Acorn Montessori School Toddler program offers full and half day and 3 and 5 day schedule options but encourages parents to consider a 5 day a week full day or 3 days a week full day option to ensure your child has enough of a consistent schedule to feel secure in our setting and with our faculty. In this way, we ensure a calm daily rhythm that supports early independence and development.
Is the school licensed by the State of New Jersey?
Yes. Acorn Montessori School is recognized by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, meeting state requirements for early childhood education.
Are Toddler teachers trained in Montessori education?
Yes. Toddler classrooms are guided by educators trained in Montessori principles, with a focus on nurturing independence, coordination, language development, and social growth.
How long has Acorn Montessori School been established?
Acorn Montessori School has served families in Hunterdon County for over 40 years, offering a trusted and stable early childhood environment.
"Acorn has empowered my children with the confidence they need to keep progressing in their education."
C. Stone
"So thrilled to find such an enriching, peaceful and safe place for our child’s first school experience."
M. DeRites
"Acorn is a vibrant, inspiring environment where our children ignite their curiosity and passion for lifelong learning. The sense of community here extends beyond the classroom, connecting us with other families and creating lasting friendships."
