-- Contributed by Kathy Lewis
1. Provide a safe place for climbing. Toddlers are active and curious; they need energy outlets.
Safe climbing toys also help toddlers develop large muscles and coordination. In addition, playing on climbing toys increases toddlers' self-confidence in their physical abilities.
2. Provide toddler-safe play centers that let children explore independently. One example of a play center is a housekeeping center. Set up the center with a variety of toddler-sized furniture, such as a table and chairs, doll beds, and a stove and sink. Make sure the area is free of items that are sharp or could pose a choking hazard. Provide a variety of toddler-safe dolls, blankets, plastic dishes, etc. Note: Furniture such as doll beds and kitchen appliances can easily be made from small and medium-sized boxes.
3. Provide toddler-sized tables and chairs. This will encourage children to sit a little longer during snack time or coloring time.
4. Plan ahead so you have a variety of activities that will interest the children. The average
attention span of a toddler is less than five minutes, so make your plans accommodate the length
of time children will be in your care.
5. Provide a regular routine. Some toddlers may feel a little anxious about being separated from
their parents. You can lessen their anxiety by having a set routine for everything from the child's parting from parents to picking up toys at the end of a session. Help anxious parents understand the need for a specific routine.
6. Know the children. This will help you adjust to a child's moods. It can also help you determine what toys to have in the classroom. For example, if you have an "impulsive thrower" in your classroom, you should eliminate toys that could cause injury to another child, such as metal cars.
7. Keep your expectations reasonable. Don't expect more than toddlers are able to deliver. For
example, children under three do not understand the idea of sharing. Therefore, if you notice
children frequently squabbling over a particular toy, eliminate that toy from the classroom to
avoid future problems. Or, make more than one of the same toy available.
8. Use a lot of "praise" language to encourage good behavior. Catch children being good, and
compliment them. Also, use positive words when you have to correct a child's behavior. Say, "I
like it when you sit in your chair instead of on the table," instead of "Don't sit on the table."
9. Make parents your allies. When a child's behavior consistently disrupts the classroom or causes harm to other children, enlist the aid of the child's parent (s). It may be necessary for the parent to attend to the child in the classroom until the disruptive behavior stops.
10. Stay calm. Use your voice and your smile to soothe children and smooth over negative
situations. A soft word and a gentle touch can be very effective when managing a group of
toddlers. By being calm, firm, and consistent, you can help children understand you are in control of the situation. At the same time, you help children learn to control themselves.
