IndyWaldorf

What is Waldorf Education?

Inspired by the ideas of Rudolf Steiner, Waldorf Education is a holistic approach to child development as individuals balance their thinking, feeling and willing (Head, Heart and Hands). Teachers are inspired for their lessons by what would nurture individual needs of their students and the greater societal need that they are living in. The Waldorf curriculum is designed to meet the child’s needs during different periods of their lives, believing that some subjects resonate with specific ages more deeply.  There is often an emphasis on nature, rhythmic scheduling, the arts, movement and social harmony in the lessons.

Early Childhood experiences (Kindergarten) help develop the will of the child, with free-play, movement games, handwork and cooking, while fostering the dreamlike phase of this age by incorporating imaginative storytelling and song.

The Grades lessons (1-8) weave the arts (drawing, painting, modeling, practical arts, music, poetry, drama) in a lively way through all subject areas and maintain a strong connection to nature by observing it keenly and reflecting on it in imaginative ways.  Subjects include Language Arts, Geography, Science, History, Math, Movement/Games and Eurythmy when a qualified teacher is available. The emphasis on the arts helps develop one’s emotional life in a healthy way, so that a foundation exists for the intensely intellectual pursuits of High School.