The Toddler Program cares for children ages 15 months to 2 years. We have 2 toddler rooms on-site.
The toddler program is geared to provide a safe, healthy environment in which the children have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of experiences: from paint and paste to pegboards and play dough, from blocks and beads to bikes and balance beams, and from stories and songs to slides and swings. We recognize that toddlers are struggling with issues of dependence versus independence, so we provide both security and structure while helping them learn the power of their own words and the freedom of making choices. Through the use of age‑appropriate toys and activities we support and extend their emerging physical, intellectual and social skills, taking care that each receives the affection and nurturing so necessary for healthy development.
Teachers
ELISIA EARLE (ASSISTANT TEACHER - TODDLER II)
Elisia joined the Development Center Staff in June of 2021. Elisia worked for a private daycare and recreational programs before choosing to work at BCDC as an Assistant Toddler 2 Teacher.
EMILY ZEGLEN (ASSISTANT TEACHER - TODDLER II)
Emily recently graduated from Brockport with a B.S. in Public Health, loves working with kids, and currently works in our Toddler 2 classroom.
MARY DEARY (HEAD TEACHER - TODDLER I)
Mary started BCDC in April of 2015. She graduated from SUNY Brockport with a BS in English Literature. She went on to receive her Master’s degree in Childhood and Early Childhood Education from Niagara University. She has been working with children for 10 years and is excited to be back at her almamater.
LEAH SHANAHAN (ASSISTANT TEACHER - TODDLER I)
Leah joined the BCDC community in 2021. She graduated from SUNY Buffalo with a dual degree in Psychology and Criminology, and is currently working on her Masters degree in school counseling here at Suny Brockport. She has worked with kids since was 15 in various settings such as Boys and Girls Club and the YMCA, is excited to be a part of BCDC in the Toddler One class.