Toddler Explorations Classes
Our toddler program philosophy recognizes children as competent learners and values their emotional, social, and physical experiences. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, the Explorations classes are centered around observation, free play, and the wish to understand and appreciate each child’s unique developmental achievements and challenges within the context of the toddler group.
Family members or caregivers stay with children for the 75-minute toddler classes, which include about eight to fourteen toddlers each. Our toddler teachers are caring and nurturing educators who understand early childhood development and learning and apply their knowledge of the Reggio philosophy in the creation of a lovely toddler environment full of potential discoveries for young children and their families. We ask that children be at least 18 months old by October to participate.
Infant Explorations Classes
Parent-Infant and parent-young toddler classes are open for children 4 months to 17 months old, and are facilitated by Tandy Parks, MPH and Palisades Preschool teachers. They meet Friday mornings in 8-12-week sessions, Fall, Winter, and Spring. Classes will be held in an Atelier environment with developmentally-appropriate materials for children to explore, and space for parents to observe, talk, and connect.
We all begin our journey as parents with the desire to do it well. So, the process of figuring it out begins! We draw from our own childhood and our parents. We share experiences with friends, we seek professional resources like our pediatrician, books, and the wealth or challenge of information on the internet.
It’s hard to do it alone. Parents throughout time have benefited from mutual support and companionship, learning through observation of our own and one another’s children, and sharing real experiences.
Life is busier today and it can be difficult to share our unique concerns and questions. Parent/infant or parent/toddler groups can fill that need. In each class we catch up with what is new (and there’s always something new). We discuss topics including:
The development of basic rhythms and regulation in sleep, feeding, and play
Parent/infant attachment or building a close and secure relationship with a child
Current cognitive, motor, and emotional/social development
Concepts of neuroscience which illuminate child development and help us “parent with the brain in mind”
The physical and emotional adjustment of new mothers and fathers
Returning to work and childcare decisions
Parenting with a partner
Managing mounds of “parenting advice” and building one’s own wisdom
Finding balance in daily life and plenty of joy day
