Two- to three-year-olds are in Montessori’s first plane of development, when their world is expanding quickly and they’re eager to explore. Leaving home for school can feel like a big step—for children and parents alike—so building security and confidence is an important part of the Toddler experience.
Toddlers learn naturally by moving, exploring, and trying things again and again. Teachers create a classroom just for them, offering gentle guidance while giving children plenty of opportunities to discover what they can do on their own.
Toddlers are ready to “do it myself.” Everyday experiences like washing hands, pouring water, preparing food, and helping to clean up after snack help build real independence and confidence.
Our Toddler classrooms, Sassafras and Willow, offer a gentle transition from home into a larger community. In thoughtfully prepared environments designed especially for 2- and 3-year-olds, children are given the security to explore, the freedom to make small choices, and the guidance they need as they take their first steps toward independence.
Children must be 2 years old by September 1 to enter our Toddler program.
From the very first day, children in our toddler program explore concepts like:
These Montessori concepts come to life in everyday moments large and small.
Every child — even the youngest — places their coat on a hook, stores their boots in a locker, and puts their supplies in their cubbies.
There’s real joy in mastering something new: putting on their own shoes for the first time, watering a classroom plant without help, or proudly cleaning up after snack.
Teachers give children time to try tricky tasks before stepping in. They offer just enough help to keep them moving forward while preserving the child’s satisfaction of doing it themselves.
Children do not need to be toilet trained to attend the RPMS toddler program.
Children arrive with their parents or caregivers and say goodbye as they head to their cubbies to remove outdoor clothes, put on indoor shoes, and greet their teacher.
Children choose activities and work independently during the morning work cycle.
Community Time: Singing, games, and movement
Bathroom, diapering, and handwashing
Snack time
Playground/gym
Dismissal
Lunch prep
Lunch time
Bathroom, diapering, and handwashing
Nap time
Bathroom, diapering, and handwashing
Snack time
Story time and transition
Afternoon dismissal
Free play
Bathroom, diapering, and handwashing
Snack time
Playground/gym
Toddlers learn by doing. Their Montessori classroom is intentionally designed to empower them to explore, make choices, practice new skills, and discover just how much they can do for themselves.
A: No. Children do not need to be toilet trained to join the RPMS Toddler program. Diapering, handwashing, and bathroom visits are all part of the daily routine. Teachers meet children wherever they are in the process and help them gradually build confidence with these important self-care skills.
A: Families may choose either a four-day schedule, Tuesday through Friday, or a five-day schedule, Monday through Friday. Early arrival is available beginning at 7:30 a.m., with dismissal options at 11:15 a.m., 3:15 p.m., or 6 p.m. Children who stay beyond the morning program eat lunch and nap at school, while those who remain through 6 p.m. enjoy additional time for snack, free play, and outdoor or gym activities.
Our school year begins just after Labor Day and continues through the first full week of June. We also offer nine weeks of summer camp—even for our youngest students—to provide families with additional continuity and coverage throughout the summer.
A: For many toddlers, RPMS is their first experience separating from a parent or caregiver—and our teachers understand that this transition may take time. They create predictable routines, offer plenty of reassurance, and help each child begin forming trusting relationships within the classroom. As children become familiar with their teachers, classmates, and daily rhythm, uncertainty gives way to a growing sense of confidence and belonging.
Where children learn to follow their own lead — right here in Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood.
Information about joining the RPMS community, including admissions, tuition, and financial aid.
Each stage of our Montessori journey builds confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Our shared values guide us to peace within self, relationships, school, community, and the greater world.