READINESS AT COTTONWOOD

Cottonwood promotes independence and freedom in learners of all ages.  In order to set little ones up to be successful in a free and independent environment, there are certain things they must be able to do before enrolling to attend Cottonwood. 

Can your young person?

• Carry and take off backpack, coat, and shoes 

• Keep personal items in their bin

• Stay safely with a group inside the space, outside of the space, and in transitions

• Respond to voice prompts (“Walking feet” or “Inside voices”)

• Use toilet and wash hands independently (see toileting requirements here)

• Listen to a children’s book read aloud and remain engaged until its conclusion

• Keep small objects out of mouth

• Return objects and materials to the original location when finished using them

Support Resources:

• Read anything by Alfie Kohn, including “Unconditional Parenting,” the most aligned book with our approach at Cottonwood.

• Read anything by Janet Lansberry listed here: https://www.janetlansbury.com/category/toddlers-preschoolers/

• Listen to this podcast by Alfie Kohn, http://www.tiltparenting.com/2018/10/23/episode-131-alfie-kohn-on-why-children-thrive-when-we-practice-unconditional-parenting/

The interviewer has a differently abled son so there is some dialogue about a-typical kids too; it is the Unconditional Parenting dialogue is spot on.

• Support with using the toilet independently? Try 3-day potty training (works even if your child is mostly potty trained) http://www.3daypottytraining.com/

Cottonwood does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, or ethnic origin in administration, admission, or any associated activities.