Our Toddler Programs: Where Curiosity Runs Wild!
Lil Tots: 12 – 18 Months | Big Tots: 18 – 24 Months
At Lil Leopards, we know that toddlers are tiny explorers with big personalities and even bigger energy. This is the age of "firsts"—first words, first steps, and first friendships. Our toddler rooms are designed to be safe, high-energy hubs where your little explorer can discover the world through their senses.
Specialized Stages for Growing Littles
Because so much happens in a child’s second year, we offer two distinct programs to ensure every child is challenged but never overwhelmed:
Lil Tots (12–18 Months): Transitioning from infancy to toddlerhood is a big deal! We focus on steadying those new walkers, introducing "real food" textures, and encouraging early language through songs and play.
Big Tots (18–24 Months): As independence grows, so does our curriculum! We lean into "I can do it myself" moments, focusing on follow-along instructions, social sharing, and expanded vocabulary.
🎨 A Day in the Life: Play with a Purpose
We believe that toddlers learn best when they are elbow-deep in an activity. Our "purposeful play" approach includes:
Sensory Adventures: Whether it’s finger painting, splashing in water tables, or feeling different textures, we embrace the "mess" that leads to learning.
Music & Movement: Dance parties aren't just for fun—they build gross motor skills and coordination!
Early Literacy: We dive into board books and storytelling to spark a lifelong love for reading.
Social Milestones: We guide toddlers through their first social interactions, teaching them how to play with friends rather than just next to them.
🛡️ Safety & Our Standards
Toddler-Proofed Fun: Our classrooms are designed with soft corners, low shelving for easy access to toys, and plenty of room to roam safely.
Cleanliness First: Toddlers are hands-on, so we are "hands-on" with cleaning! Toys and high-touch surfaces are sanitized throughout the day.
The Parent Loop: Just like our infant program, you’ll receive real-time updates and photos through our parent app. You’ll see every messy masterpiece and playground victory as it happens!
🧺 What to Pack
To make your transition as smooth as possible, we recommend bringing:
Labeled Bottles or Sippy Cup: For meal time & snack time.
Diapers & Wipes: We will alert you via the app when your "stash" is running low!
Two Changes of Clothes: For those "oops" moments.
A Nap Mat or Pillow & Blanket: We make the transition from cribs to cots in our Lil Tots classroom.
Pacifier: If your child uses one.
Ready to Enroll?
Space in our toddler rooms is limited to ensure every child gets the one-on-one attention they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
In the Toddler rooms, we focus on "potty readiness." We introduce the concept, read fun books about it, and help children become comfortable in the restroom. Full-scale potty training usually kicks off in our Two’s room, but we always follow your child's lead!
-
Big emotions are a normal part of being a toddler! Our teachers use positive redirection and "calm-down" techniques. If a biting incident occurs (which is common at this age due to limited vocabulary), we handle it with immediate care for both children and provide confidential incident reports to both families.
-
Please pack a backpack with a full change of clothes (or two!), plenty of diapers/pull-ups, and a labeled water bottle. We provide all the nutritious meals and snacks, so you can leave the lunchbox at home!
-
Absolutely! Weather permitting, our toddlers head to the playground several times a day to run, climb, and burn off that famous "toddler energy." It’s essential for their physical development and better nap times!
-
We encourage "brave bites," but we never force a child to eat. Our menu is kid-friendly and nutritious. Because we eat "family style," toddlers often find themselves trying new foods simply because they see their friends doing it!