Our Philosophy and Principles About Schedules for Toddlers

A daily schedule maximizes children’s learning though effective use of time, materials used for play, self-initiated learning, and creative expression.  It also offers opportunities for children to learn individually and in groups according to their developmental needs and interests. We plan for all areas of development-cognitive, language, physical (large and small muscle) and social/emotional.

The daily schedule shall include these elements:

• Self-directed play and exploration
• Story time
• Music and movement
• Outdoor time
• Nap time
• Snack and mealtimes
• Group time (both large and small group)
• Diaper changes, handwashing, and bathroom
  
  

General Principles considered for planning the schedule:

• Each child and each group of children is different so there is no one “right” schedule
• Our carefully planned schedules will:
  1. Be predictable-routines provide security and comfort for younger children as they grow out of infancy
  2. Be flexible-not rigid
  3. Include a variety of activities in some form every day
     • Variety of toys/activities that focus development of small and large muscles
     • Art, books, music and singing, simple problem solving, cause and effect, and social experiences
     • Opportunities for visual, auditory, and sensory stimulation
  4. Have a balance between activities that are:
     • Active vs. calm
     • Individual vs. group
     • Child-initiated vs. teacher directed
     • Indoor vs. outdoor

Toddler Room

Sample Daily Schedule

• 7:00 – 8:30 Arrival and free choice areas open, breakfast brought from home may be eaten

• 8:45 – 9:00 Clean-up, bathroom or diaper changes, handwashing

• 9:00 – 9:15 Morning group time-hello song, sharing time

• 9:15 - 9:30 Morning snack

• 9:30 - 10:45  Free choice areas, including an art activity, small group activities, and independent activities

• 10:45 – 11:00 Clean-up, bathroom or diaper changes, handwashing  

• 11:00-11:45 Outside time or Indoor Large Motor

•  11:45 – 12:00 Circle time- music and movement

• 12:00 – 12:30 Lunch, prepare for nap

• 12:30- 12:45 Story time and nap preparation

• 12:45 – 1:00 Clean-up, bathroom or diaper changes, handwashing

• 1:00 – 3:00 Nap time

• 3:00 – 3:15 Waking up, quiet activities, bathroom or diaper changes, handwashing

• 3:15 – 3:30 Snack (start time depending on naps)

• 3:30  - 3:45 Afternoon circle time

• 3:45 – 4:45 Outside time or indoor large motor

• 4:45 – 5:00 Juice/water break

• 5:00 – 7:00 Free choice areas, including an art activity, small group activities, and independent activities, late day diapering