Toddler Program West Adams | Ages 18mo–3

Toddler in the Montessori outdoor environment at West Adams

The Sensitive Period

Learning to say, "I did it."

The Toddler Program at Montessori Academy West Adams is built around the "sensitive period" — the window between ages 18 months and 3 years when a child's brain is incredibly receptive to language, movement, and order.

During the morning work cycle, toddlers are not just "playing"; they are engaging with a prepared environment that fosters profound independence. They choose hands-on materials that build fine motor skills, practical life abilities (like pouring and folding), and social-emotional regulation.

Campus Director Vanessa Verastegui leads a teaching team that understands this stage is not just daycare — it is the foundation of everything that follows. Our West Adams campus at 4449 W. Adams Blvd features an unparalleled 9,000 sq ft outdoor yard where toddlers can safely refine their gross motor skills and connect with nature.

Curriculum

The Toddler Environment

Practical Life & Self Care

The core of the Toddler curriculum. Children learn to dress themselves, prepare snacks, wash their hands, sweep, and care for plants. This builds immense confidence and fine motor control.

Toilet Independence

Potty training is not a prerequisite — it is a milestone we help them reach. Our classrooms have child-sized toilets and sinks, allowing children to learn toilet independence naturally and without pressure.

Language Acquisition

A vocabulary-rich environment where teachers model clear, articulate language. We utilize nomenclature cards, songs, and books to rapidly expand the child's expressive language.

Movement & Motor Skills

Toddlers have an intense need to move. Our environment allows freedom of movement with activities designed to refine gross motor skills, balance, and spatial awareness.

Program Highlights

Why families choose West Adams

Mandarin & Spanish Immersion

Both languages are integrated into the daily work cycle — not taught as a separate, 30-minute class. Children absorb Mandarin and Spanish naturally through songs, counting, and everyday conversation at no additional cost.

9,000 sq ft Outdoor Yard

The largest outdoor space of all three campuses. It provides a massive, safe environment for toddlers to explore nature and develop physical coordination.

1:5 Teacher Ratio

One teacher for every five toddlers. This incredibly low ratio guarantees that your child receives individualized attention and guidance.

AMS/AMI Certified Teachers

Our lead toddler teachers hold formal Montessori certification. This guarantees that your child is receiving authentic Montessori education right from the start.

Enrollment

From first call to first day

Call or request a tour

Call (323) 795-0200 or submit a tour request online. We typically schedule within 1–3 business days.

45-minute campus tour

Visit the Toddler classroom while children are working. Meet Campus Director Vanessa Verastegui and ask about availability.

Review enrollment packet

Receive your fee sheet, schedule options (full-time or part-time), and the enrollment agreement.

Secure your child's place

A $100 registration fee and $300 deposit confirm enrollment. Monthly tuition starts from ~$1,675.

Orientation & first day

A brief parent orientation is followed by a staggered start for your child to ease their transition into the classroom.

FAQ

Toddler Program Questions

What ages does the Toddler Program serve at West Adams?

The Toddler Program serves children ages 18 months to 3 years. After completing the Toddler cycle, children seamlessly transition into the Primary Program (ages 3–6) on the same campus.

Is potty training required at Montessori Academy West Adams?

No. Montessori Academy West Adams does not require potty training as an enrollment prerequisite. Toilet independence is taught through the Practical Life curriculum in a supportive, non-pressured environment.

What makes the West Adams campus unique for toddlers?

The West Adams campus features a massive 9,000 sq ft outdoor learning environment, which is unparalleled in Mid City Los Angeles. This provides toddlers with incredible space to safely refine their gross motor skills and explore nature.

What languages are taught in the West Adams Toddler Program?

Mandarin and Spanish. Both are woven into daily lessons, songs, and conversation throughout the work cycle at no additional cost. It is an integrated language experience rather than a separate class.

What is the teacher-to-child ratio in the Toddler classroom?

1:5 — one teacher for every five children. This is well below California's minimum requirement and allows our teachers to give individualized attention to your toddler.

How much does the Toddler Program cost at West Adams?

Tuition starts from approximately $1,675 per month for full-time enrollment. Part-time schedules are available. Schedule a tour to receive a complete fee sheet for your specific schedule.

How do I enroll in the Toddler Program at West Adams?

Schedule a tour at 4449 W. Adams Blvd, Los Angeles. A $100 registration fee and $300 deposit confirm enrollment. We recommend calling (323) 795-0200 to ask about current waitlists.

What neighborhoods near West Adams does this campus serve?

Montessori Academy West Adams serves families from Mid City, Leimert Park, Baldwin Hills, Crenshaw, Jefferson Park, and surrounding South Los Angeles neighborhoods.

The Foundation of
Independence in West Adams