Encouraging explorers while sparking wonder, discovery, and meaningful learning.
Two toddlers, one in a striped shirt and the other in a grey and yellow outfit, holding hands in a playroom.

For children ages 12 to 18 months

Toddlers are natural explorers—curious, energetic, and eager to make sense of the world around them. At My Little Hearts Child Care Center, our Explorers Program is designed to nurture this exciting stage of development with love, structure, and purposeful play.

Toddlers are natural explorers—curious, energetic, and eager to make sense of the world around them. At My Little Hearts Child Care Center, our Explorers Program is designed to nurture this exciting stage of development with love, structure, and purposeful play.

Children playing with educational toys at a table in a classroom, supervised by a teacher. Bookshelves in the background.

What Sets Our Explorers Program Apart

  • Whole-Child Development Toddlers engage in sensory play, music, art, movement, and storytelling that strengthen motor skills, cognition, and emotional resilience.
  • Language & Social Growth We foster emerging communication and cooperation through interactive play, peer bonding, and nurturing guidance—including baby sign language to support early expression.
  • Freedom Within Structure Children explore at their own pace while learning boundaries through gentle routines and consistent caregiver support.
  • Indoor & Outdoor Discovery Active play indoors and outdoors keeps toddlers engaged and energized, expanding their understanding of the world around them.
  • Creative Curriculum Foundation Our lesson plans are rooted in the nationally recognized Creative Curriculum, blending intentional teaching with playful exploration.
  • Daily Communication with Families Parents receive daily reports on meals, naps, toilet training, and developmental highlights—ensuring transparency and partnership.

Every moment in our Explorers classroom is designed to spark curiosity, build trust, and lay the foundation for lifelong learning. Whether it’s a giggle during circle time or a proud wobble across the room, we honor each child’s journey with joy and care.

At My Little Hearts, toddlers aren’t just cared for—they’re celebrated.

Below are some of the basic milestones we look for, in addition to specific academic and developmental achievements:

Movement

  • Walks alone (12–26 mo.)
  • Pulls toys behind him while walking (13–16 mo.)
  • Carries large toys or several toys while walking (12–15 mo.)
  • Begins to run stiffly (16–18 mo.)
  • Climbs onto and down from furniture unsupported (16–24 mo.)
  • Walks up and down stairs holding on to support (18–24 mo.)

Hand and Finger Skills

  • Scribbles spontaneously (14–16 mo.)
  • Turns over container to pour out contents (12–18 mo.)
  • Builds a tower of four blocks or more (20–24 mo.)

Language

  • Points to object or picture when it is named for him (18–24 mo.)
  • Recognizes names of people, objects, and body parts (18–24 mo.)
  • Says several single words (15–18 mo.)
  • Uses two-word sentences (18–24 mo.)
  • Follows simple one-step instructions (14–18 mo.)
  • Repeats words overheard in conversations (16–18 mo.)

Cognitive

  • Begins to sort shapes and colors (20–24 mo.)
  • Begins make-believe play (20–24 mo.)
  • Imitates behavior of others (18–24 mo.)
  • Increasingly enthusiastic about other children (20–24 mo.)
  • Demonstrates increasing independence (18–24 mo.)
  • Begins to show defiant behavior (18–24 mo.)

Empowering Little Minds Daily!

Nurture your child’s growth in a safe, joyful, and enriching environment where every moment is designed to inspire learning and confidence. Contact us today to enroll and give them the strong foundation they deserve!

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