Toddlers · 2–3 years
Pioneers: a toddler room for big feelings and first friendships
For children around two to three, Pioneers is full of climbing, pouring, chatting and doing it themselves. It's also where children start learning words for what they feel.
See a day in Pioneers
2 to 3 years
Toddlers
1 educator for every 4 children
Victoria's required ratio
Toilet learning
At your child's pace, in step with home
Feelings Garden
Words for feelings, every day
Inside Pioneers
Big feelings, and words for them
Toddlers have big feelings and not many words for them yet. In Pioneers, children learn to recognise and name what they feel through play, stories and the same simple words our educators use every day. We call this the Feelings Garden, and we share the words with you so you can use them at home.
The room is set up for "I can do it myself": jugs and cups at their size, low hooks for their bags, small brooms and real tools. Children pour their own water, serve their own lunch and help tidy up.
A day in Pioneers
Busy hands, big feelings
Every day is a little different, but it might include:
- A calm hello and time to settle into play
- Body Ready, a short movement routine before group time
- Short group times with songs, stories and feelings words
- Messy, hands-on play with water, clay, sand and paint
- Setting the table and serving their own lunch
- A sleep or rest after lunch, then outside play
What they learn
What your child is learning
Feelings and friendships
Naming feelings, taking turns and making first friends.
Independence and life skills
Washing hands, putting on shoes, serving food and toilet learning.
Voice and language
Words grow quickly, through songs, stories, chatting and Auslan.
Moving and growing
Climbing, running and balancing, plus careful pouring and scooping.
Every feeling gets a name.
The Feelings Garden
How we support toddlers at Lumora
When a toddler can say "I'm cross" instead of throwing a block, everything gets a little easier, for them and for everyone around them. We name feelings out loud, notice them in stories, and help children find words of their own.
Our Inclusion Specialist also works in the room every day, supporting any child who needs a little more help, with or without a diagnosis.
For parents
What toddler parents ask us
Toilet learning
When your child shows signs they're ready, we'll work out a plan with you and use the same words and routine at home and at the centre.
Biting and big moments
Biting and grabbing are common at this age. We stay calm, care for both children, look for what's behind it, and always tell you the same day.
Sleep
Most toddlers have one sleep after lunch. Children who don't sleep have a quiet rest instead.
What to pack
Two or three changes of clothes (more during toilet learning), a hat and any comfort item.
Moving on
When your child is ready
Children move on when they show clear, everyday signs they're ready, not on a birthday. We'll always talk it through with you first.
Next room: Three-year-olds, Voyagers
Voyagers: our three-year-old roomReady to move on when they can:
- Use the toilet with support
- Say their own name and follow two-step directions
- Join in short group times
Questions
Questions about Pioneers
Come and see Pioneers for yourself
Visit your nearest centre, meet the educators in the toddlers room and ask anything you like.
Book a tourCall Ballarat on 03 5340 0726 or Pakenham on 0406 929 780