Toddler
Learning Outcomes
- Emerging Independence: Learning self-care, care of the environment, and using the toilet independently.
- Language Development: Moving from single words to complex sentences and developing the social language to express feelings and needs. Adults support children in communicating with each other. The environment encourages expressions of curiosity and creativity.
- Physical Coordination: Refinement of fine and gross motor skills, both indoors and out, and coordinating complex movements.
Program Highlights
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Real Life Work
- Children learn through tactile materials that engage the senses and deepen understanding. Toddlers use real, child-sized tools to prepare snacks, wash dishes, and care for living plants.
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Child-Led
- Respects each child’s “work cycle,” allowing repetition until internal satisfaction is reached. Children actively lead their own learning. They choose tasks based on personal interest and readiness, meanwhile developing independence and self-confidence. Montessori education adapts to each child’s pace and interests, offering flexibility and individualized growth opportunities.
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Grace and Courtesy
- Concepts of helpfulness and contribution are the key skills. Children function morally by their choosing, rather than relying on external motivation. These concepts include lessons on greeting each other, participating in conversations by actively listening without interrupting, resolving conflicts, and following directions.
A Word From Our Lead Teacher
Daniedra Austin
FAQ
What makes a Montessori Toddler Classroom different?
Montessori toddlers learn through hands-on exploration in a carefully prepared environment designed just for them. Children choose activities independently, practice practical life skills, develop language, and build confidence while teachers guide and support their learning.
How do you help toddlers develop independence?
Independence is at the heart of Montessori education. Toddlers are encouraged to participate in daily routines such as washing hands, serving snacks, cleaning up, dressing themselves, and making choices throughout the day. These experiences build confidence and self-esteem.
What support is available for toilet learning?
We partner closely with families during the toilet-learning process. Teachers follow each child’s developmental readiness and work collaboratively with parents to create a consistent, supportive experience both at school and at home.
Do you have openings right now?
Availability varies by age group, classroom, and location. Infant (Nido) and toddler spots tend to fill quickly, while primary (preschool) and home-based learning may have more flexibility depending on the time of year. The best next step is to reach out for current openings and/or schedule a tour.
How much is tuition and what does it include?
Tuition varies based on the child’s age. Private pay rates are:
- Nido: $2,892
- Toddler: $2,731
- Primary: $2,035
The fee covers:
- Extended-day early education and care for children ages 0-6.
- Daily learning experiences supported through the Montessori curriculum.
- Individualized learning plans to help your child develop the skills they’ll need for kindergarten and beyond.
- Delicious well-balanced meals and snacks from My Kid’s Lunch.
- Developmental screenings, mental health supports, and family support
- Parent-teacher partnerships and real-time communication and photos to learn about your child’s day
*There is an additional $65 monthly materials fees for Nido and Toddler classrooms.
Do you accept subsidies (e.g., CCAP, Head Start, UPK, DPP)? / Do you offer assistance?
Yes. Family Star Montessori is known for a blended funding model and accepts:
- CCAP (Colorado Child Care Assistance Program)
- Head Start / Early Head Start
- UPK (Universal Preschool)
- DPP (Denver Preschool Program)
These programs can significantly reduce or even fully cover tuition depending on family eligibility.
Is there a fee to join the waitlist or enroll?
Yes, there are a couple of standard fees:
- Administration Fee: $100 (non-refundable)
- Tuition Deposit: $500 (applied toward your child’s tuition once enrolled)
However, Head Start eligible families do not pay an administrative fee or tuition deposit.
Is there a waitlist? How long is it?
Yes. Family Star Montessori typically maintains a waitlist, especially for younger age groups (Nido/toddlers). Wait times are immediate, ranging from a few months, to even over a year depending on age and funding type. It’s always recommended to apply early.
How do I apply / What’s the enrollment process?
The process generally includes:
- Submit an inquiry or application
- Connect with the enrollment team / schedule a tour
- Determine eligibility for programs (Head Start, private pay tuition, subsidies, etc.)
- Once a spot is available, you will be notified and provided enrollment paperwork
Do you offer part-time or full-time options? / Do you offer extended care?
Family Star Montessori offers:
- Full-day programming is (approx. 7:45 AM – 5:15 PM)
- Head Start hours are typically shorter (around 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM)
- Extended care options are available to cover the full workday with CCAP or for a fee.
What curriculum does Family Star Montessori use?
Family Star Montessori uses an authentic Montessori curriculum in its classrooms, providing a child-centered, hands-on approach that supports independence and whole-child development across cognitive, social-emotional, and physical domains.
For its home-based program, Family Star utilizes the Parents as Teachers (PAT) curriculum, an evidence-based model that is thoughtfully blended with Montessori principles to support learning in the home and strengthen parent-child relationships.
Overall, Family Star integrates Montessori with other leading educational practices and comprehensive family support, creating a holistic approach that nurtures both children and their families.
Do you offer tours?
Yes! We encourage all prospective families to schedule a tour. This is a great opportunity to see our classrooms in action, learn more about our Montessori approach, and ask questions. Tours can be scheduled through Schedule a Tour page.
Tuition Information & Support
Family Star believes that cost should never be a barrier to a world-class education. We serve families across the full economic spectrum, from fully funded Early Head Start services to private pay tuition, and we are committed to helping every family find a path that works for them.
