Programs

When parents are touring our school and walk into one of our early childhood classrooms we usually hear a sigh and often a comment like “I wish I could have come to school here”. When you see the orderly classroom filled with natural play objects, special art materials, and wooden furniture, you can see and feel that it is a place where young children can thrive. If, on your tour, you are able to see the teacher in a circle with the children reciting a story with movements and them imitating her every move and word, you will have a taste of the experience that the students receive every day in our unique program.

The Waldorf approach to early childhood education is largely imitative, sensory, and based on play. Our teachers create a thoughtful routine that provides a rhythm to the day, the week and honors the larger rhythms of the seasons. These rhythms form the basis of the stories, puppet plays, activities and artistic experiences that happen in the cozy home-like environment.

There is daily outdoor playtime, and a warm snack is served to all of the children. We strive to create an environment and activities that are worthy of imitation in a setting that allows the child’s own imagination to flourish.

In Waldorf theories of child development there is an emphasis on supporting the child’s physical development, motor skills, and imitative capacity in approximately the first seven-year period of life. This prepares a student to be fully capable of beginning formal multi-disciplinary academic instruction in grade school.

Chickadees-Preschool

A warm and nurturing preschool program designed for children ages 3–4.

Schedule options:

• Half-day, 3, or 5 days/week

Willow Wind-Kindergarten
A mixed-age kindergarten program for children ages 4–6.

• Schedule options:

  • Full-day, 5 days/week

  • Half-day, 4 or 5 days/week

Morning Glory-Kindergarten
A mixed-age kindergarten program for children ages 4–6.

• Schedule:

  • Full-day, 5 days/week

Oaks and Acorns class offers a warm and nurturing space to our littlest community members, ages 3 months to 3 years, and their parent or caregiver. Our program shares a similar rhythm to our early childhood classrooms and is designed to support the early stages of growth with a focus on sensory exploration, socialization, and emotional development. Children are encouraged to engage with the world around by socializing, playing and moving (both indoors and outdoors), eating a nourishing snack, and engaging with simple lap games and songs

At the same time, parents are invited to connect with one another, share experiences, and build a supportive community in a serene and welcoming space. Our classes offer discussions related to child development, parenting topics, and a broader look at Waldorf pedagogy through the years and are led by an experienced Waldorf teacher trained in both Early Childhood and Grades. This program fosters a holistic approach to early childhood development while creating meaningful bonds for both parents and children alike.

Contact at enrollment@corvalliswaldorfschool.org for additional information or applications.