From Handprints to Hypotheses: Using the Project Approach with Toddlers and Twos

Use the Project Approach to engage toddlers’ interests, guide in-depth explorations, and help them embrace learning

Toddlers and two-year-olds are in a fluid and dynamic state of development. They have a sense of wonder that is easily activated, and they are always ready to learn. In this book, you will learn how to use hands-on creative projects to engage very young children’s interests and nurture their unique ways of exploring and learning. You will be inspired to implement your own project-based curriculum, recognize and respond to children’s innate ability to create, and support their curiosity and self-discovery.

This book
Reviews the major theories of toddler development.
Outlines basic goals and guidelines for applying those theories as you set up your space, select materials, develop your curriculum, and incorporate the Project Approach.
Presents twelve art projects—from simple to long-term—with narratives describing the processes in action as children participate in each project.

Todd Wanerman has been teaching toddlers and twos for twenty years. He is the coauthor of Including One, Including All.