Transitioning
To the Toddler Class

At
Marin Day Schools we view the infant and toddler groups as a
micro-community.  The two groups of children often share indoor
environments, teachers and outdoor areas.
Often the children visit back and forth and go for walks together.  As infants mature and are ready to
explore more challenging or stimulating experiences, they often spend
increasing time in the toddler classroom.

Often
a primary caregiver will transition to the toddler room with the babies. It is
very important that infants and toddlers have a strong attachment to caregivers.
Teachers need to be open and flexible and accept that at times they might be
working with “infants” and at other times “toddlers”.

To
become a member of the toddler class a child must be emotionally ready to join
a larger size group with a more physically active group of children.  Additionally, a child must be physically
ready to participate in more challenging activities.  A child does not have to be able to walk
to be in a toddler group.

When
a child joins the toddler group it is essential that he be totally comfortable
before spending an entire day there.
It is recommended that every day the child spend more time in the new
class.  It is important that the
Head Toddler teacher assign a primary care-giver and that the Head Teacher or
the Primary Care-giver meet with the parents and do a formal orientation prior
to a child moving into their new class.