Waddlers

1-2 years

In the Waddler room, children complete the transition to a sippy-cup and one nap per day, and teachers focus more on encouraging socialization. A brief Circle Time is introduced, where children sing songs and participate in gross motor activities to develop their balance and coordination. The rooms are filled with large and stable play equipment, and children are introduced through play and stories to basic concepts like hot/cold, big/small, up/down. The concept of the “Safe Place” is introduced, where children begin to learn breathing techniques that help them when they are upset.

The teacher-to-child ratio 1 to 4 at Children First, and 1 to 5 at Heritage. Differences in West Virginia and Virginia Licensing Standards dictate each program’s classroom ratios.