Why
in the world do they knit at school? How is my child's teacher
providing for him or her as an individual? Why do they teach the way
they do? Endless questions are bound to come up for any parent
providing an education for their child that may be different from their
own. Appreciation for what goes on in a Sanderling Waldorf School
child's day, and how to nourish this at home, is just part of what our
parent education program offers. Our school is proud
to provide parents with a program that facilitates an understanding of
the Waldorf philosophy and what it means to educate in our modern
world. From group meetings multiple times a year with parents
and
their
children's teachers, to guest speakers who provide
a unique window into Waldorf, to ongoing parent study
groups -- our school strives to make adult education a key element in
child-rearing. Our intention for the Parent-Child program is
to
create a
homelike, safe, and nurturing environment.
For the children we want to provide: playthings from the natural world,
or simply made toys that allow and encourage the use of fantasy; an
extended family or community environment as children gradually become
ready to interact more with their peers; nursery rhymes, finger plays,
simple songs, and the opportunity to imitate adults engaged in
meaningful activity.
For the parents we want to offer: a
rare peek into
their own
child's interactions in a group setting, as well as
observation of other children in the same age range; a model of a
rhythmic, structured morning, along with songs and finger plays that
they may wish to incorporate into home life in some way; examples of
simple toys that they can make for their children, as well as stories
and activities appropriate to the age and the season; and an
introduction to the Waldorf philosophy through articles and
opportunities for adult education through the school.
