Pre-School/Kindergarten

Play is the heart of the Waldorf Early Childhood program. Children develop the capacity for creative thinking, problem-solving abilities and social skills through their free imaginative play. Simple and natural materials (pieces of wood, seashells, beeswax and handcrafted toys) are provided to the children to encourage them to use their imagination, which helps them to form their own games and stories.

Balancing free play with structured activities, the children engage in watercolor painting, handwork, seasonal crafts, and movement. Hearing stories told aloud and watching puppet plays cultivate the imagination and strengthen the ability to listen and concentrate. Songs and nursery rhymes inspire a love of language and of music. Preparing snacks together, baking bread and cleaning up afterwards encourage cooperation and a sense of responsibility. All these activities enrich the early childhood experience in daily, weekly, and seasonal rhythms that create a bridge from home to school. The teacher is a specially trained individual able to create a wholesome environment that nurtures the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual development of each child in preparation for the elementary grades.

Preschool is held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 am– 1:00 pm for children aged 3 years 6 months to 4 years 9 months. Each child brings a healthy lunch in a basket with a cloth napkin and placemat. Preschoolers must be potty trained.

Kindergarten is held Monday through Thursday from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm starting for children aged 4 yrs 9 months.