Discovering PK1 (12–18 Months)

Starting Your Child’s Educational Journey

Welcome to one of the most exciting stages of your child’s life! From first steps to first words, the 12–18 month phase is full of incredible growth, curiosity, and joyful discovery. At Pacesetter Academy, we provide a nurturing, engaging environment designed to support your child’s unique developmental journey with care, compassion, and expert guidance every step of the way.

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What Matters Most at This Stage?

We understand that this may be your first time entrusting your child to someone else's care—and that transition can feel emotional. That’s why our focus is on creating a supportive and loving space through:

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Areas of Development We Support

Physical Development

Your toddler is gaining mobility and coordination every day. They're exploring the world by walking, climbing, and reaching for new challenges.

  • At Pacesetter Academy:
  • Active Play: We offer safe, supervised opportunities to walk, crawl, and climb, supporting gross motor development
  • Fine Motor Fun: Activities like stacking blocks, turning book pages, and simple arts & crafts build coordination and control
Cognitive Development

At this age, your child is making powerful brain connections. They’re starting to understand routines, explore problem-solving, and test cause-and-effect.

  • At Pacesetter Academy:
  • Explorative Learning: Sensory play, open-ended materials, and discovery stations encourage experimentation and curiosity
  • Early Routines: Gentle guidance helps toddlers learn how to follow simple directions and engage in predictable activities
Language Development

From babbling to forming simple phrases, your child is beginning to use words to connect with their world.

  • At Pacesetter Academy:
  • Language-Rich Classrooms: Teachers narrate the day, label emotions, and encourage communication through gestures and words
  • Story Time & Songs: Daily reading and music build early vocabulary and listening skills
Social & Emotional Development

Emotional growth blossoms at this stage. Children begin forming bonds, showing preferences, and engaging in parallel play.

  • At Pacesetter Academy:
  • Cooperative Play: Activities support turn-taking, imitation, and first friendships
  • Emotional Support: Teachers offer warm, consistent care, helping children feel seen, soothed, and safe
Independence & Self-care

Even the littlest learners are capable of amazing things. At this age, we gently introduce early self-help skills in a supportive and responsive environment.

  • Encouraging Independence:
  • Children are invited to participate in simple routines like choosing a toy or attempting to feed themselves
  • We encourage safe exploration with lots of positive reinforcement and teacher support
  • Teachers model self-help behaviors and celebrate small steps toward independence
  • Practicing Self-Care:
  • Toddlers begin to learn handwashing with help and start using utensils at mealtime
  • Diapering is treated as a nurturing, respectful routine that encourages body awareness
  • Cozy nap transitions teach children to self-soothe with soft music, books, and calm routines

Health & Safety

By age one, your child is just beginning to explore the world around them, and their safety is our highest priority. We provide a nurturing, secure environment where they can explore, grow, and develop at their own pace.

Through gentle guidance and constant supervision, we help them begin to understand basic safety concepts, such as not putting objects in their mouths and staying close to caregivers. We also start introducing fundamental hygiene practices, ensuring that they are well cared for and comfortable in their early stages of development.

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Alicia B
Mother

Pacesetter Academy is arguably the best Preschool in the Miramar/Pembroke Pines area. My child has been attending this school for about a year and a half and his knowledge base has increased tremendously. I also appreciate them remaining open during this pandemic, allowing me to continue to work and my child to continue in his learning growth.

OUR SCHOOL AT-A-GLANCE

What Makes Pacesetter Different?

Our approach, rooted in the renowned HighScope Curriculum, nurtures young minds by fostering a love of learning through active engagement, independent exploration, and comprehensive growth.

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Tailored Learning for Early Development

Our curriculum is designed around how children grow during their earliest months—providing the right balance of structure, freedom, and exploration at each stage.

Hands-On Exploration with Gentle Guidance

We introduce sensory-rich, age-appropriate materials that spark curiosity, while our caring educators guide and encourage your child’s efforts.

A Warm, Safe Environment for First Milestones

With small class sizes, soft lighting, and nurturing teachers, we help children feel calm, connected, and ready to explore.

Open Communication and Supportive Parenting

From daily updates to personalized check-ins, we keep you informed and involved in your child’s journey—and we’re here to support you, too.

Celebrating Every Little Milestone

We believe every achievement deserves recognition. Whether it's a first step, a new sound, or a shared smile—we celebrate it together.

Discovering PK1 (12–18 Months)

Let’s Take the Next Step Together

Schedule a tour today and see why families trust Pacesetter Academy during this unforgettable stage.

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