Our Ideals in Practice:
*We are inspired by the ideals of Waldorf Education, Resources for Infant Educarers / Emmi Pickler's philosophy, and the work of Gordon Neufeld.
*We are working out of a deep respect for the young child. Through ongoing study and focused observations of the children in our care, we strive to deepen our understanding and thus be better able to meet their needs.
*We understand the value of providing health–giving experiences and a warm, nurturing environment to young children. Slowing down to a child's pace and interacting with the children with presence and interest we create a loving atmosphere full of joy, wonder and reverence. We provide the children with opportunities for free exploration and interactions with one another and with nature. With loving presence we support them through the challenges that these interactions may present.
*We recognize the importance of self-initiated, creative free play to the healthy development of the young child and how this play supports learning throughout childhood and into adulthood. Time and space for play to unfold is an important part of our program.
*We understand the importance of rhythm and repetition. In our programs children experience daily, weekly, and yearly rhythms reflected in our activities and festivals. The comfort of a predictable routine allows children to live freely in the moment, free to explore and experience the world around them with a sense of confidence and security.
*We recognize that the work of the child involves imitation, social exploration, exploration of the natural world, practical and meaningful work, and artistic activities. Our teachers engage in meaningful practical activities that the children are free to observe, participate in, and incorporate into their play. Some of this work and play unfolds in the garden as we tend the earth and plant seeds. Preparing meals, and "keeping house", making knitted or wooden toys, watercolor painting, and beeswax modeling are all examples of practical and artistic activities.
*We understand that nourishing sensory experiences is essential in the development of the young child. The young child's brain is very active in it's development. We recognize that sensory experiences play an important role in this development.
*We strive to be a diverse community. We welcome families from diverse racial, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds. We strive to meet the needs unique to each child and each family.
*We strive to build a healthy, thriving school community that supports the healthy development of its children and families. We celebrate festivals together as a community, offer parenting classes, and opportunities for self-development. Parents and teachers work in partnership to best support the children in our care.