SKILLS NEEDED FOR SUCCESS IN COCOON & CATERPILLAR CLASSROOMS
Two-year olds must have a minimum level of communication and social skills to utilize our program successfully. During our initial tours and throughout the two-week adjustment period, we look for these developmental markers:
- Has simple expressive communication skills
- Uses words, signs, or gestures to get attention or help
- Responds to his name consistently (turns, looks at you, etc.)
- Follows one and two-step directions
- Shows an awareness of other children
- Is comfortable being around other children
- Calms after separation, even if there are initial tears
- Allows comfort from another adult or can self-soothe
- Tantrums are not extreme or frequent
- Tolerates transitions during daily routines at home
- Is able to self-feed and does not require breast-feeding for self-soothing
- Tries to get you to notice interesting objects
- Climbing and running away is not a problem
Children develop at different rates. We have found that children who do not yet possess these skills frequently do better stepping away for a while and pursuing other types of less-overwhelming experiences (Mommy and Me, Story Hour at the Library, Gymboree, playgroups, etc.). After several more months of maturation and socialization, they are often able to return with new skills in place.