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Today's Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Monday7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Tuesday7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Wednesday7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Thursday7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Friday7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Toddler School Near Portland
A Nurturing First Step for Children Starting at 18 Months
Safari Cub Toddler Care gives children starting at 18 months a warm introduction to group learning at Safari Kid of Tigard. Through play-based learning, guided exploration, and caring relationships, we connect dependable toddler care with meaningful early childhood education.
Young children learn through movement, repetition, conversation, and hands-on discovery. Our program balances responsive guidance with opportunities to explore, make choices, interact with peers, and practice emerging independence at an appropriate pace.
Call (503) 676-3873 or reach out online to discuss our toddler program and arrange a visit to our Tigard learning center.
Play-Based Learning for Active, Curious Toddlers
Safari Cub Toddler Care uses play-based learning to support physical and cognitive growth while keeping experiences accessible to young children. Short, hands-on activities and familiar routines give toddlers repeated opportunities to engage, communicate, move, and create.
Program experiences include:
- Sensory Exploration: Children investigate materials through touch, movement, observation, and simple problem-solving.
- Creative Expression: Art, imaginative play, and music-related experiences invite participation and self-expression.
- Early Communication: Conversations and book exploration strengthen listening, vocabulary, and emerging language and literacy.
- Movement Practice: Tricycle riding, balance beam walks, obstacle courses, and handling small toys support coordination and physical development.
- Cooperative Play: Shared experiences give children opportunities to interact with peers, take turns, and participate in a group.
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Cognitive
We encourage curiousity and a love for learning that inspires children to explore and discover.
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Social
Children learn vital social skills through activities that emphasize cooperation and sharing.
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Language & Literacy
Communication skills are developed through interactive and engaging activities.
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Physical
We ensure children build strong, healthy bodies while fostering a love for movement.
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Emotional
Our approach to emotional learning helps children recognize, express, and manage feelings.
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Health & Care
Children learn to recognize and attend to their own needs, those of others, and the environment.
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Whole Child DevelopmentWe nurture academic, social, emotional, and physical development through play. -
Cutting-Edge CurriculumResearch-backed education provides an invaluable headstart. -
Welcoming EnvironmentThoughtfully designed facilities foster curiosity, safety, and rich learning.
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2005The first Safari Kid Launches in Newark, CA
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2007Safari Kid’s Eclectic Philosophy is Introduced
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2008The Proprietary Booklet System is Released
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2009After-School Programs & Summer Camp Launch
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2011The Safari Kid Toddler Program is Launched
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2014The Safari Kid Infant Program is Launched
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2015Environmental Guidelines Are Developed
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2020The Kindergarten Program is Launched
Whole Child Development in Safari Cub Toddler Care
Our proprietary curriculum supports Whole Child Development rather than treating early learning as a narrow set of academic tasks. Inspired by Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and other respected educational methodologies, our approach combines structured guidance with open-ended exploration.
Our toddler curriculum addresses five connected developmental domains:
- Cognitive Development: Children encounter shapes, colors, numbers, puzzles, games, and sensory activities that encourage exploration and early problem-solving.
- Language and Literacy Development: Books, conversations, imaginative play, and guided interactions encourage children to express their needs, build vocabulary, and participate in simple exchanges.
- Physical Development: Movement experiences support gross-motor development, balance, and coordination, while writing tools and small objects provide fine-motor practice.
- Social and Emotional Development: Children practice interacting with peers, cooperating during play, recognizing feelings, and navigating emotions with support.
- Health and Care Development: A nurturing environment helps children participate in routines and develop age-appropriate awareness of personal care.
Individualized Guidance & Family Collaboration
Every toddler develops differently. Our educators use ongoing assessments to understand each child’s learning style and potential, then adjust their approach as the child grows. Nature-inspired learning centers and thoughtfully selected educational materials provide room for active discovery and quiet exploration.
Parents stay connected through regular assessments, ongoing communication, Procare, social media updates, and family events. These shared observations help families understand what their child is exploring while giving educators valuable insight into development beyond the classroom.
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I would recommend safari kid to anyone looking for a great experience.Jill Turek
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The dedicated staff at Safari Kids create a nurturing and stimulating environment, making it a perfect place for early childhood development.Sushma Venkatayogi
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School environment is exceptional. Very colorful, bright, and playful environment, which attracts children’s attention.Katie LO
What to Ask When Choosing a Portland Toddler School
A visit can help you determine whether a toddler school fits your child’s developmental needs and your family’s priorities. We invite Portland-area parents to explore the learning environment and ask how educators support transitions, adapt experiences, assess progress, and communicate with families.
Families should contact our Tigard center directly to confirm current enrollment information, classroom routines, and enrollment requirements. We accept ERDC and welcome families receiving child care assistance through the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care.
Visit Our Tigard Toddler Program
Safari Kid of Tigard offers Safari Cub Toddler Care for children starting at 18 months, combining nurturing care with guided exploration and whole-child learning. Contact Safari Kid of Tigard to discuss program fit, request current enrollment information, and arrange a visit. You’ll be able to explore our learning environment and ask the questions that matter to your family.
Call (503) 676-3873 or contact us online to take the next step.