Montessori Toddler Curriculum (18–36 Months)

What is the Montessori Toddler Curriculum?

The Montessori toddler curriculum for children ages 18 to 36 months is thoughtfully designed to nurture the natural development of young children during this formative period. Rooted in Dr. Maria Montessori’s philosophy, the toddler program provides a carefully prepared environment that fosters independence, language acquisition, social development, and motor coordination.

At this age, toddlers are eager to explore and absorb everything around them. The Montessori classroom is structured to encourage this innate curiosity. Materials are scaled to the child's size and capabilities, allowing them to engage fully with their surroundings. The environment emphasizes order, beauty, and simplicity, supporting toddlers' need for consistency and fostering a sense of security.

An authentic Montessori toddler curriculum will include:

Gross and Fine Motor Development
The physical environment offers plenty of opportunities for both fine and gross motor development. Activities such as climbing, balancing, carrying, and manipulating small objects help toddlers strengthen their muscles, develop coordination, and build control over their movements. Freedom of movement is a hallmark of the Montessori approach, recognizing the important link between physical activity and cognitive development.

Fostering Independence and Joyful Learning
Throughout every aspect of the toddler curriculum, fostering independence is a primary goal. Children are gently encouraged to attempt tasks on their own before receiving assistance, allowing them to experience the satisfaction of self-mastery. The Montessori method nurtures each child’s intrinsic motivation to learn, promoting joyful exploration rather than external rewards or punishments.

Multisori's Montessori toddler curriculum will launch with two subject areas:

Practical Life Skills
A cornerstone of the toddler curriculum is Practical Life activities. These exercises—such as pouring water, washing hands, sweeping, dressing, and preparing simple snacks—help children develop fine motor skills, concentration, and a sense of independence. Through repetition and careful observation, toddlers build confidence and take pride in caring for themselves and their environment.

Language Development
Language acquisition flourishes in the Montessori toddler environment. Teachers, known as guides, model rich, precise language, and children are encouraged to express themselves verbally. Activities such as story time, songs, vocabulary cards, and conversations support the expansion of vocabulary and the development of early literacy skills. A strong emphasis is placed on listening and verbal communication, respecting each child's unique pace.

Later, additional subject areas will be added.

Ultimately, the Montessori toddler curriculum lays a strong foundation for lifelong learning by supporting the natural unfolding of the child’s abilities, encouraging respect for self and others, and instilling a deep love of discovery.