Preschool

The early childhood teacher in a Waldorf school works with the young child first by creating a warm, beautiful and loving home-like environment that is protective, secure and where things happen in a predictable and regular manner, what we refer to as the “rhythm of the day.”

Through a carefully unified program of structured and unstructured activities, the children are given a full scope of opportunities in which to unfold their creative and imaginative faculties. Young children learn through imitation and, if given the chance, delight in engaging in a wide range of practical, domestic and artistic activities such as baking, painting, modelling and crafts. The child’s imagination is nurtured through carefully selected stories and puppet shows. The art of storytelling is really alive in the preschool as fairy tales, nature stories and other appropriate stories are told, rather than read, by the teacher. The child’s imagination is active because the pictures are created inwardly as the story unfolds. Songs and rhymes, which are used throughout the day, enliven and extend the child’s use of language as well as training the ear, while rhythm brings harmony to the physical body.

Free play, simple toys and equipment made from natural materials stimulate creativity and imagination. Plenty of time and opportunity to experience the world through play helps to develop a rounded, well-balanced child and provides a solid foundation for later academic achievement and excellence. Given the right environment and support, the young child exhibits a foundation of creativity never again to be equaled in the course of his or her life. Deepening this capacity prepares the proper ground for rich, spirited and free thinking to emerge.

The world of nature and the rhythm and beauty of the seasons enliven the classroom environment. In this way, the child’s senses are nourished, and the joy and wonder of childhood are nurtured. The Waldorf program follows the seasonal rhythm of the year and the celebrations of festivals are happy occasions for children, parents and teachers.