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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.
Explore songs, finger plays, music and more during this Music & Movement class for ages 0-6. Some sessions are held in person at various branches of the St. Louis County Library. Some sessions are virtual.
Open Gym at Miss Kelly's Gym is an opportunity for any child to have supervised free play in the gym. They can work on existing skills, try something new, or simply play around. It is completely up to them! Open Gym is open to both members and non-members ages 12 and under.
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.
At this free art program for ages 3-6 the focus is on the process of making art rather than the finished product. Dress to get messy!