EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM
“Children in play-based preschool programs showed stronger academic performance in all subject areas measured.” - Rebecca Marcon, PhD, Professor of Developmental Psychology, University of North Florida
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RHYTHM & NOURISHMENT
The classroom's daily rhythm moves with the children's needs, allowing plenty of time for their play to become creative and for independent skill building such as self-regulation and executive function development. From our out-breath of free play, we move inward to share a small meal. Together, we enjoy a wholesome and filling snack outdoors which includes a "grain of the day,” followed later in the school day with a nourishing nibble of dried fruits or nuts. Strong daily, weekly, and seasonal rhythms are held for the children to instill a sense of security, which allows them to become fully engrossed in the curriculum. FREE PLAY & PURPOSEFUL WORK Play is the work of young children, and imitation is their natural way to learn. The children are given ample time to free play in our outdoor environment, and the teachers practice being worthy of imitation by their conscious actions, movements, and speech. Through songs and nursery rhymes, we cultivate a lively sense of language. Listening to stories, watching puppet shows, and acting in dramatic play enrich language skills and strengthen the children’s powers of memory and imagination. Counting games and rhythmic activities build a solid foundation for arithmetic and number skills. Purposeful work and play activities develop coordination, concentration, a healthy social sensitivity, and support proprioceptive and vestibular development. Participation in seasonal activities and festivals provides joyful experience and deepens a child’s inner life. GROWING WITH THE AGES Our early childhood program is referred to as “kindergarten,” which is the norm at many Waldorf schools around the country. The children enjoy more continuity and stability because they remain with the same teachers and in the same environment for several years. The younger children learn from the older ones and gradually grow into more mature roles in the classroom. The older children are given more responsibilities, and they help the younger children. The final year in the program is a valuable time for them before they make the transition into our Grades program. 
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SAFETY IN A PANDEMIC Our hybrid setting allows the children to spend their entire time together outdoors so that we have the benefits of in-person learning in the safest and most pleasant environment during the pandemic. Studies have shown that spending time outside supports children in ways such as reducing anger and fear. Being in nature helps them feel better emotionally as well as contributes to their physical well-being. It is our goal to do what is right for the children during these times. Please note: Since Early Childhood operates entirely outdoors, we won't require your child to wear a mask 100% of the time at school. However, your child will need to wear a mask upon entering any indoor space such as the bathroom. PROGRAM DETAILS The Chickadee Kindergarten is for children ages four to six. It is divided into three groups based on developmental stages and how to best support the child: Chickadee I, II, & III. Our Early Childhood programs all begin at 8:30 a.m. and the Grades program starts at 8:00 a.m. so that drop-off times are staggered during COVID-19. CHICKADEES I 4 years old (must be 4 by March 31) 3-day, half-day program for Tuesday - Thursday. CHICKADEES II 5 - 6 years old (must be 5 by August 31) 4-day, half-day program for Tuesday - Friday. CHICKADEES III 5 - 6 years old (must be 5 by March 31) 4-day program, Tuesday - Friday. HEARTH SEMESTER From our scheduled Thanksgiving Break to the Spring Solstice is considered our Hearth Semester. During this period, our hours can change to accommodate variance in temperatures. For prices and additional information please see the Admissions section. |
Prepared for the Weather
Our RCE is an environment where the children spend their time solely outdoors. As Alfred Wainwright wrote, "There is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing," we know that the child's most valuable tools are their gear and how they are dressed. We attend school in all weather conditions, however, winter is the most difficult to prepare for. Upon enrollment, a gear suggestions list is given to help in acquiring what is needed. If we feel as though your child isn't adequately equipped for the weather conditions, we reserve the right to contact you and request that you immediately bring adequate gear. A failure to dress appropriately for the weather is not only a safety risk for your child but potentially for the rest of the group. Below is a guide to help:
Our RCE is an environment where the children spend their time solely outdoors. As Alfred Wainwright wrote, "There is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing," we know that the child's most valuable tools are their gear and how they are dressed. We attend school in all weather conditions, however, winter is the most difficult to prepare for. Upon enrollment, a gear suggestions list is given to help in acquiring what is needed. If we feel as though your child isn't adequately equipped for the weather conditions, we reserve the right to contact you and request that you immediately bring adequate gear. A failure to dress appropriately for the weather is not only a safety risk for your child but potentially for the rest of the group. Below is a guide to help:
