Whispering Pines Toddler Groups
Programs in Delanson & Amsterdam sites only
Whispering Pines Preschool is a private early childhood and early intervention program serving infants, toddlers, and young children with special needs, as well as typically developing children. Services for children referred through their county’s Early Intervention Program are provided at no cost to families and are state funded, while parents of typically developing children pay a program fee.
The mission of Whispering Pines Preschool is to provide all children with the opportunity to reach their full potential in a nurturing environment that supports social, emotional, and developmental growth. Through a play- and language-based curriculum, we promote curiosity, problem solving, functional skills, and meaningful peer interactions.
To Fulfill Our Mission Our Toddler Team will
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Provide a collaborative interdisciplinary team (OT, PT, SLP, Special Instruction) to deliver comprehensive services.
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Engage children in developmentally appropriate therapeutic play experiences.
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Support parents in understanding their child’s strengths and needs.
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Create an inclusive, engaging environment that promotes interaction with typically developing peers.
Overview
The Toddler Playgroup provides a nurturing, inclusive environment that supports socialization, learning, and development through play.
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Encourages peer-to-peer interaction and social development
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Uses a developmentally appropriate, play- and language-based curriculum
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Is staffed by professionals who support routines, transitions, and peer interactions
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Integrates therapeutic support services into daily activities
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Promotes active parent involvement
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Respects diversity and presents materials in a non-biased manner
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Fosters self-esteem, independence, and respect for others
Playgroup Structure
The playgroup runs five days per week for two hours, serving up to five children with special needs and five typically developing peers per session.
The child-to-staff ratio is 2:1.
Daily components include:
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Guided Play
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Circle Time
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Snack Time with Oral Motor Activities
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Activity Time
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Closing Play
A TYPICAL DAY
GUIDED PLAY
Children select from a variety of toys and sensory activities while transitioning from parent separation, with staff supporting purposeful play, exploration, and social interaction.
CIRCLE TIME
Children greet peers and staff, practice attending and turn-taking, and participate in songs and movement activities that encourage communication and expression.
SNACK TIME
Children are supported in exploring a variety of foods and textures in a safe, structured setting. Daily oral motor preparation supports sensory awareness and participation.
ACTIVITY TIME
Children engage in structured fine motor and multisensory tabletop activities, learning to attend, share materials, and complete tasks with staff support.
CLOSING PLAY
Parents, children, and staff come together for songs, hand plays, or story time to promote social engagement, eye contact, imitation, and communication.
Routines and Transitions
Consistent daily routines provide predictability and security. Transitions are supported through familiar songs, which cue expectations such as clean-up, hand washing, and sitting for snack. Song play throughout the session supports language, gestures, social skills, and smoother transitions.
Parent Involvement
The Toddler Playgroup is a family-centered program. Parents are encouraged to participate during play and closing activities to strengthen positive parent-child interactions. Sessions may be videotaped upon request for families unable to attend.
Regular communication and meetings allow parents to collaborate in planning their child’s intervention. Parent feedback is gathered formally every six months and informally on an ongoing basis to guide program development.