The Franklin Montessori School
Forest Hills Campus
4473 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
Phone 202.966.7747, Fax 202.966.8508

The two year old program is a time to venture forth from the nurturing family unit; to explore the world in a safe environment; to compare and contrast big and little, wet and dry, rough and smooth, heavy and light; to refine movement of the body and the hands; to learn to be a friend, to take turns,
to be gentle, caring and respectful; to use words meaningfully; to learn to do things "by myself" confidently.

The Montessori class for twos provides an environment rich in activities derived from the natural tendencies of a child at this age. Running, jumping, pulling, pushing, throwing, and pounding are typical movements of a two year old. "No! I want to do it myself" and "When is Mommy coming?" are common expressions. The development of small motor movement involved in using a spoon, dressing and undressing and the development of language through naming, describing and expressing feelings, form the basis of the toddler curriculum.

Two year olds are naturally motivated to become independent. For many children, the toddler classroom is their first separation from their parents. A healthy separation develops security, trust and independence in the child. Success in pouring a beverage and buttoning a coat create a self-confident learner who beams with pride when she hears the words, "You did it!"