2 years old by September 1

Making Friends During Play

SWPCC helps even our youngest children develop friendships. We nurture the basic curiosity and interest that toddlers have in one another, and teach specific skills to support making friends. We provide many daily opportunities for taking turns, listening to others, joining in groups, asserting oneself, handling conflict, and showing empathy for others.

Learning About Language Through Play

Throughout the toddler day we use books, stories, dramatic play, signs, songs, rhymes, and specific vocabulary to impart the building blocks for successful reading and use of language. The children listen to books at group time and during meals. They practice holding books, turning the pages, and reading to friends, even taking turns pretending to be the teacher. We play letter- and name-recognition games, write messages and signs, and give the children the materials to do their own writing and make their own books.

Playing with Early Math and Science

Dynamic toddler play is full of early math and science! We use familiar objects and events from the classroom and playgrounds to notice, wonder and explore. We work at counting (forward and backward), and act directly with toys and materials to learn concepts such as more/less, matching, time, size, shape, patterns. Through handling toys and acting on materials, the children learn the vocabulary of science: ideas, predict, plan, investigate, collect, compare, organize, and experiment. When the children’s questions and ideas are treated with respect and curiosity, the entire group learns, and interests deepen.

Toddler Room Daily Schedule
9:05a Open Choice Play, Art, Movement
9:50a Group Time: Stories, Songs
10:05a Diapers/Potty
10:20a Snack, Stories
10:40a Outside Time, Rain or Shine
11:55a Diapers/Potty
12:10p Lunch, Stories
12:35p Choice Play, Movement
12:50p Pick-up

Teacher Liz

Teacher Kaitlyn
​
I’m delighted to teach at SWPCC. Toddlers are so joyous in exploring the world. Their language is blossoming, and early friendships are charming.

I believe SWPCC has succeeded for over 40 years because parents and teachers nurture a community where each child is valued for who he or she is. Together we create rich experiences and build trusting relationships. I use play, stories, songs, and active listening to help the toddlers grow socially and emotionally.

I was a parent member for seven years, while my two children attended SWPCC. During that time, I worked several years in all three programs. In 2004, I was hired to be the Toddler Room teacher. My family has received tremendous benefits: a launch pad for my kids’ success, support as parents, and our dearest friendships.

My background includes a B.A. degree in Behavioral Psychology and graduate work in child development, social learning, personality development, child psychology and working with groups of children. My annual professional education continues in child development and current best practices in parenting, and educating young children.

I’ve worked in diverse educational settings, including preschool library leader, literacy aide, group facilitator at the Dougy Center using play and art therapy, kindergarten, day care, after-school and library programs, and assisting in grades 1 through 5. My deepest knowledge and skills are teaching two- to five-year-olds. I am also a parenting coach and speaker.

I love reading, dancing, and sharing time with friends and family.

I bring my heart to caring for young children with a firm grasp of what’s appropriate for their ages and stages, creativity, and gaining needed skills through play.

Life in the Toddler Room is fun, adventurous, at times thoughtful and quiet, but always busy!  Throughout the year friendships are formed and trust and confidence is built.  By the end of the year a group of lively toddlers surrounds the table at meal times and share their thoughts freely.  It is a place that is a joy for me to be. 

I have been a parent at SWPCC for 5 years while my three children have attended (and continue to attend).  I have spent at least several years in each of the rooms and appreciated each step of the journey.  Being a parent in the classroom, having the opportunity to watch your child play, learn and grow with peers is a once in a lifetime experience. While your child is learning from peers, you too, will have the opportunity to learn from your peers, teachers and children. The ability to connect with fellow parents allowed our young family to learn and share many milestones together.  A truly invaluable experience.

I am from Virginia but have made Portland my home since 1999.  While my life has been anchored by my family I have also spent many years as a baker.  Working with my hands and decorating cakes has always been so satisfying for me.  Our family life is busy but I do like to find time for exercise, gardening, and cooking.