Starting my Tot School

What does the term “Tot School” mean to us?

The idea of “tot school” isn’t about overwhelming your toddler, it’s about learning through play. I want the little guy to be exposed to letters and numbers, colors and shapes, seasons and weather, and even basic anatomy. I don’t necessarily expect him to truly understand some these things quite yet, though. Like I said, little kids do things in their own time and on their own terms. Although, he definitely amazes me sometimes.

We sit down together. We take turns. We talk, at least as much as we can. You know, considering the little guy is just starting to use his words. One thing that I do feel very strongly about is challenging him, which means that occasionally the things we do are meant for little kids slightly older than him. As always, everything we do is 100% supervised.

Remember, you’re talking to someone who’s pro-homeschooling, but that’s a post for another day. Suffice it to say that I believe all children should learn in an environment that allows them the freedom and flexibility to be themselves and to focus on what they’re good at. I want to create a love of learning. And with that, we start our homeschooling journey with “Tot School.”

I’m not necessarily saying that my long-term plan is to homeschool. And for that matter, I’m not saying I won’t ultimately enroll the little guy in public school. I’m simply saying that for now, I’m making a conscious decision to be more intentional about what we’re doing. I want to see him spend his early years learning and growing through play.

What do our “Tot School” days look like?

When we get up in the morning, we go downstairs and do our calendar. We talk about the month, the day, the season, and the weather. I know what you’re probably thinking… “But Cristi, he’s only 18 months old. He has absolutely no idea what you’re talking about.” And, at least to some degree, I would probably say you’re right.

He loves it, though. That’s what’s important. As far as I’m concerned, it’s also accomplishing a few important things – developing hand-eye coordination/fine motor skills as he adds each day to our calendar and encouraging language and literacy skills as we talk through the days of the month and the months of the year, the seasons, and the weather.

http://www.thekeeperofthememories.com/2016/01/our-tot-school-days-at-18-months-old/

Tot school Calendar

http://livingmontessorinow.com/simple-magnetic-velcro-calendar-activity-using-free-printables-montessori-monday/

http://www.clker.com/clipart-29313.html

http://www.playdoughtoplato.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/FREEAlphabetPrintablesChartClipCardsPuzzles.pdf