Sea Horses
Young Toddlers
18 months to 24 months
1:6 Teacher-to-Student Ratio
Maximum Class Size of 12
About the Sea Horses
The Sea Horses are part of our Toddler Program. Here, children are introduced to preschool in a gentle and supportive environment. They also have a wonderful academic program that is geared towards their specific development and teaches them in a fun yet challenging way.
Curriculum & Daily Activities
During daily Circle Time, the children read 2–3 theme-based storybooks. They are introduced to colors, shapes, numbers, and letters through stories, songs, and finger plays, helping them build early language and listening skills.
The Seahorses participate in a daily art activity that includes both crafts and open-ended art connected to their thematic unit. Art time provides a creative outlet while also helping develop fine motor skills. They also take part in music and movement activities each day, encouraging coordination, rhythm, and self-expression.
Throughout the day, the children are introduced to a variety of foundational concepts. These include social skills such as socialization, manners, sharing, and taking turns; self-help skills like feeding themselves, sitting appropriately during activities, and dressing; and becoming familiar with classroom materials such as books, crayons, markers, and glue. Language development is also encouraged through speaking, listening, and following simple directions.
Environment
At our school, our toddler classrooms maintain a 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio, allowing teachers to provide attentive care and support for each child. Toddlers also have access to their own separate playground, which is designed to be safe and age-appropriate for their developmental needs. Both the toddler classrooms and playground provide plenty of space for children to explore, play, and engage in hands-on learning throughout the day.
Developmental Milestones
By 2 years, toddlers will:
Notice when others are hurt or upset, like pausing or looking sad when someone is crying
Looks at your face to see how to react to a new situation
Points to new things in a book when you ask, like “Where is the bear?”
Says at least two words together, like “more milk".”
Points to at least two body parts when you ask them to show you
Uses more features than just waving and pointing like blowing a kiss or nodding yes
Holds something in one hand while using the other hand; for example, holding a container and taking the lid off
Tries to use switches, knobs, or buttons on a toy
Plays with more than one toy at the same time, like putting toy food on a plate
Kicks a ball
Runs
Walks (not climbs) up a few stairs with or without help
Eats with a spoon
Why Scripps Exploring Academy?
By separating our toddlers at Scripps Exploring Academy, we can keep the group size at 12 and maintain an intimate learning environment. Having the smaller age range in each class allows for the children to build close ties with their peers and improves socialization.
