
At the Waldorf School of St. Louis, we believe that an unhurried approach to the early childhood years offers the healthiest and strongest foundation for children's academic, social, and personal growth. We very deliberately do not accelerate academic learning in our early childhood progrm. Our teachers create a welcoming environment designed to facilitate the child's emerging capabilities. Classrooms are warm and colorful, with natural toys and a peaceful environment that inspires open-ended play and free movement.
Our program emphasizes children's freedom to engage – both indoors and out – within the structure of a comforting routine. Daily, weekly, and seasonal rhythms provide a framework of consistency for young children. The outdoors is a key aspect of our curriculum, as it promotes the development of strength and confidence in the natural world. Our early childhood students are engaged in activities that promote social development, fine and gross motor skills, as it lays the foundations for literacy and numeracy – preparing students for the structured, academic learning that begins in first grade.
The Waldorf School of St. Louis offers an interdisciplinary and progressive approach to learning. the Waldorf curriculum flawlessly intertwines every branch of academics, the arts, and practical skills, cultivating well-rounded, critical thinkers who embrace high ideals and respect themselves, others and the natural world. No other educational method provides an academic experience as enriching, authentic and joyful as Waldorf education.
Enrolling families for Parent/Child classes from Pre-K through Grade 8. The Waldorf School of St. Louis offers Waldorf Homeschool Enrichment, monthly Walk 'n Talk Tours, and Little Red Hen Parties throughout the year.
Visit the James S. McDonnell Planetarium in Forest Park and see a star show to experience the largest artificial sky in the Western Hemisphere. Star shows are lead LIVE by one of the Planetarium's educators, creating a new and tailored experience for every audience.
Stop in and have some fun in the indoor pool at the Lodge of Des Peres with your little one at this drop-in swim time for kids up to age 6. No pre-registration is needed; Water Waddlers is open to residents and non-residents of Des Peres.
The Saint Louis Science Center has expanded its Preschool Science Series to include new offerings for different age groups of young scientists. Storybook STEM is for ages 3 to 5.
LEGO Club at the St. Louis County Library is a free opportunity for kids to gather and have fun building with LEGO bricks. LEGOs are provided.
Explore the Saint Louis Zoo in the evenings at the Chinese lantern festival Animals Aglow! Animals Aglow returns to illuminate the Saint Louis Zoo for the second year with dozens of new, towering lanterns and light displays.