Kitten Room
Gentle beginnings in a warm, home-like setting designed for our youngest explorers.
About This Classroom
A Gentle Introduction to School Life
The Kitten Room is a haven for our youngest members — toddlers between 18 months and 2 years old who are taking their very first steps into the world of school. Everything about this classroom is designed to feel safe, familiar, and warm.
Our home-like setting features soft textures, cozy corners, child-height shelves brimming with sensory materials, and plenty of space for both active exploration and quiet snuggles. We know that secure attachment is the foundation for all learning at this age, and our teachers work closely with families to create consistent, loving transitions.
Language blossoms in the Kitten Room. Songs, fingerplays, simple picture books, and responsive conversations throughout the day help children build vocabulary and communication skills rapidly. Social milestones — first friendships, parallel play, gentle sharing — are nurtured with patience and joy.
The cooperative model means a parent member is always present in the classroom, providing an extra set of warm and caring hands — and giving families a window into their child's school world.
Classroom Info
Daily Routine
A Day in the Kitten Room
Consistent, predictable routines give toddlers a sense of security. They know what's coming next — and can relax into exploration.
Morning Arrival & Free Play
Children settle in, greet friends, and explore open play areas at their own pace.
Circle Time
Songs, fingerplays, simple stories, and a gentle group greeting to start the day together.
Sensory & Exploration Centers
Water table, sand play, playdough, art materials, and manipulatives — all child-led discovery.
Outdoor Play
Gross motor play in our outdoor space: climbing, running, balls, and nature exploration.
Snack Time
A nutritious snack served family-style, practicing self-help skills and table conversation.
Read-Aloud & Language Play
Picture books, puppet shows, and language-rich songs to build vocabulary and a love of stories.
Closing Circle & Goodbye
A calming goodbye routine with songs and hugs to close the school day warmly.
What Children Learn
Learning Focus Areas
In the Kitten Room, every activity — even free play — is purposeful and tied to developmental goals.
Language Development
Building vocabulary through songs, books, narration, and responsive conversation with teachers and peers.
Sensory Exploration
Water, sand, playdough, and varied textures stimulate neural connections and satisfy the toddler need to touch and discover.
Gross Motor Skills
Climbing, running, balancing, and outdoor play develop coordination, strength, and body awareness.
Fine Motor Development
Pinching, pouring, threading, and mark-making build the small-muscle skills needed for future writing and self-care.
Early Social Skills
Parallel play, gentle sharing, turn-taking, and the first friendships lay the groundwork for a lifetime of relationships.
Emotional Security
Secure attachment to caring adults, consistent routines, and empathetic responses build resilience and emotional intelligence.
Your Child's Team
Meet the Kitten Room Teachers
Our teachers are the heart of the Kitten Room — experienced, caring professionals who know and love every child as an individual.
Sarah Johnson
Lead Teacher
M.A. Early Childhood Education
Sarah brings over 10 years of infant-toddler experience to the Kitten Room. Her gentle, relationship-based approach creates the secure attachments that young toddlers need to thrive. She is a certified Infant Mental Health specialist and a passionate advocate for play-based learning.
Maria Lopez
Assistant Teacher
B.A. Child Development
Maria's warmth and patience make every child in the Kitten Room feel seen and cherished. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she enriches the classroom with music, language, and a deep love for the toddler years. She has been part of the UPNS family for 5 years.
Enroll in the Kitten Room
Give your toddler the warmest possible start. Apply today or contact us to schedule a visit to the Kitten Room.