Teacher tips

[Beth Kephart]

Hello People! I just signed up and thought I'd jump right in. I'm a toddler teacher, and just started a new job. I'm wondering if any other teachers have suggestions. I work with the 1-year-olds, and can always use new ideas to keep them busy. It's especially hard when there are 4 or 5 interested in songs/dancing/books, and another 4 or 5 who are more interested in wandering out of the room or assaulting their friends. Any ideas?

[Karen]

[i]or assaulting their friends. Any ideas? [/B]

You are too funny! (I've been asking people for ideas on how to handle my 22 mo old who feels the need to push every child she sees!)

Oops, why is my reply in italics?

[Debbie C-M]

I think toddlers are truly unique!! They are so interestering. The question was how to keep them busy...that is a challenge. My toddler classes include their moms but it is still a challenge. If I am doing a group activity and I have a few toddlers that run away I usually get out the bubbles or a puppet to get their attention and it seems to bring them to the group.
Debbie C-M

[Amy J]

I agree toddlers are a unique group. As such, they need to be treated uniquely. As a rule of thumb, they have an attention span twice their age. That's if they're interested. Toddlers aren't quite ready for group activities. Group activities can be done but for a VERY VERY short period of time. i.e. a couple of songs, a short finger play, or a short book. It is normal to have several small groups and one interested in an activity. Try to have something else (centers) for the other children to do.

Toddlers flutter around a room. This is in part due to thier the expansive learning. A room should be set up in centers (though not the same as for preschool). Equipment should include a variety and quantity. duplicates. (Duplicates reduce fighting).

Some good books are:
Simple Steps: Developmentally Appropriate activities for infants and toddlers, and two year olds.

The Active Learning Series: I.e. Active Learning for Two-year olds

Developmentally Appropriate Practice: a NAEYC publication


Also, having appropriate activities and a variety/quantity of toys will cut down on the aggression.