Skilled Toddler Classroom – The Jungle Room (2 – 3 years)
“Who am I, and who is in charge?” Although the older, skilled toddlers are asserting their own control and independence, they still need a strong sense of security in order to explore the world with more purpose. Our program provides a nurturing, yet structured environment to promote language development, how to sort out feelings and communicate them in an appropriate manner. Sharing, developing friendships and a love for pretend play are also areas of focus.
Toilet-training is actively targeted with this age group. We will work with parents and families to provide support for each other to promote success on the road to being diaper free!
Our teachers provide parents with a daily report on each child’s activities throughout the day and pay special attention to ensure the parents feel informed as to how their child’s day went. We know it’s difficult to be away from your child but being able to discuss with them activities they have done earlier that day is a great way for you to connect with them!
Toddler Daily Guide: (Click Here)
What to bring for your skilled toddler:
We ask you to bring the following:
– bedding bag- crib sheet, blanket, small pillow and lovie (bag will be returned at the end of each week to be cleaned),
– clean changes of clothing (weather appropriate, 2 changes of clothing),
– diapers/pull-ups as needed,
– lunch in lunchbox with ice pack (If not participating in our Lunch Program)
Co-Lead Teacher
I grew up in Alfred, ME with my family including my two sisters. I moved to Portland in 2022 for school. I am currently enrolled at SMCC and working on my Early Childhood Education degree. I have worked with toddlers through school aged kids for 6 years, in summer camps; before and after school care; and babysitting. I have played softball for 12 years and now play in college! In my free time, I love hanging out with my puppy, Barrett and reading. I am beyond excited for this new journey at The Academy!
Co-Teacher
I was born in New York and moved to Maine when I was 4. I was raised in Biddeford, but have lived all around Southern Maine. Since I was 12, I’ve been caring for children from newborn to 10 years old. In 2023, I had the opportunity to be a teaching assistant the Kaler Elementary in South Portland where I worked with 1st graders. I love creativity and helping kids grow and expand their imagination. In my free time, I like go for walks with my younger siblings. I really enjoy nature and being with my family. I also love reading and spend most of my time with books. I am so excited to start this journey with your kids!
Co-Teacher
I’ve lived in Westbrook my whole life and have known at an early age that I love working with children. I attended the Early Childhood Education program through high school and knew that was where I wanted to be in moving forward in life. Throughout the years I’ve babysat and nannied for kids of all ages. In 2018, I became a motherer myself and couldn’t love it more!
I began as a floater at The Academy in 2022 and have since moved into the role of co-teacher with the 2 year olds!
In my free time I enjoy taking walks and adventuring with my dogs and daughter! I also love photographing nature.
I look forward to working with your children every day and couldn’t be happier working here!
Co-Teacher
I’ve lived in and out of Portland area for years and have recently decided to settle down here. I grew up in central Maine and always knew I loved working with kids! that passion was cemented when I worked at a summer camp in Vermont! We had so much fun exploring the outdoors and being creative! I love to bring art into the classroom and I have a soft spot for illustration specifically. I love supporting children’s imaginations and sense of adventure! I hope to incorporate as much creative expression into my work at The Academy as I can!