At the age of 15 months, we strive for the following to ensure a successful transition:

 

1. Child will be on table food.

2. Child will be off of the bottle and using a sippy cup.

3. Child will take 1 nap per day, in the afternoon.

4. Child will use a pacifier only at naptime.

5. Child will be walking, or at least taking steps.

6. Child will have a vocabulary of at least 1 word and be able to sign at least one word.

7. We will say a blessing with the child before each meal.

 

Story Time:

What we do: Read to the children from a variety of age appropriate books. Books are chosen from our room or from the library to fit within the theme. Under this theme, we may choose to sit inside a small pup tent and cuddle with the child while reading.

What they learn:  Beginning language skills; social skills; eye-hand coordination/fine motor skills (turning pages)

What we do:

1. Play with the pup tent.  Allow child to explore and go in and out of the tent.

2. Let the children play with children's play camping gear - for example - a large flashlight.  Turn off lights and shine on the floor/ceiling.  Encourage child to follow and try to catch it.

3. Provide children with a variety of stuffed animals one would see on a camping trip.  Have the child put them inside/outside the tent or use a large basket for them to put them in and take them out.

What they learn: Gross motor skills; fine motor skills; problem solving skills

 

What we do:

1. Use the sensory table/tub and let the child explore pieces of marshmallow (sized so as not to cause choking if put into mouth).  Provide measuring cups/spoons, so they can scoop and fill.  Provide constant supervision.

2. Use animal puppets (i.e. a raccoon) and play with the children.

3. Have a variety of camping clothing - i.e. hats, vests, play fishing pole, and let the children play with and explore them.

What they learn: problem solving skills; textures; gross/fine motor skills.

 

What we do: Play a variety of music with outdoor fun themes. Dance to the music and sing the songs.

What they learn: Gross motor skills; language skills; social skills