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The years before children reach age seven are an important time for development and for laying the crucial foundation for their later academic learning. At CLWS, imagination and play in the early years form the basis for creative thinking and decision-making in the primary years and beyond. Likewise, an awareness of the wonders and rhythms of nature will lead to keen scientific observation and mathematical ability.
The Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten programs at CLWS provide a warm, nurturing atmosphere filled with playthings of natural materials. Storytelling, poetry, and singing games nourish the powers of imagination and memory, giving children a rich experience of language.
Verses and stories are told and acted out, drawing from the rich lore of worldwide fold and fairy tales. These activities develop a love of language and critical memory skills such as increased concentration and retention.
A balance of individual play and group activity give children a chance to learn about their world and the people in it. Children explore further through activities such as drawing, modeling, drama, music, eurythmy, handcrafts, watercolor painting, cooking and baking. All these activities enrich the early childhood experience in daily, weekly and seasonal rhythms that create a bridge from home to school.
See below for information on our birth to 3 year-old Parent and Child classes.
Pre-Kindergarten
Class Age: For children 3 1/2 to 5 years of age who are toilet trained.
Class Size: 14-16 children with a teacher and an assistant.
Schedule Options: two-day (Monday/Tuesday); three day (Wed/Thur/Friday); or five-day options. Core morning program with afternoon care available.
Kindergarten
Class Age: For children 4 1/2 to 6 years of age (Children must turn 6 before July 1 to be eligible to enter First Grade).
Class Size: 16 children with a teacher and an assistant.
Schedule Options: Core five-day morning program with afternoon care available.
The Morning Rhythm
A typical morning rhythm, for both the PreK and Kindergarten, consists of:
Greetings and free play
Daily activity (such as painting, modeling, baking, etc.)
Circle time
Snack
Outdoor Adventure
Storytelling
Closing Verse
Little Sprouts
A Parent and Tot Program for ages 18 months to 3 years
Explore the warmth and wonder of a Waldorf setting with your child. This class meets once a week from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Your child will have the opportunity to play in a setting close to you as parents engage in the meaningful work of a simple craft or a parent discussion. A healthy snack is prepared as a part of the morning. During circle time, songs and verses will be shared that are easily learned and repeated at home. A parent evening is included. The next session begins on January 31st.
A nine-week session will begin on September 18, 2007. Families may register for Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday mornings. Registration will begin on Monday, August 27th. Click here to download a registration form. Families are registered on a first come, first serve basis. The cost is $190 per session.
A second nine-week session will begin on January 28, 2008.
Baby Sprouts
Baby Sprouts is a gathering for families with babies birth to 18 months (or babies on the way.) Families will gather to share their parenting experiences. Discussion topics will range from Waldorf education to early parenting and childhood development depending on the interests that arise from the group. It is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other parents.
Baby Sprouts will be held once a month on Friday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the following mornings:
September 21
October 12
November 9
December 7
January 18
February 8
March 7
April 4
Families may drop in or register ahead of time for a discount. The cost
is $10 per gathering. Click here for a registration form.
All Little Sprouts and Baby Sprouts classes are held at First Christian Church, 2201 First Avenue South in Minneapolis. The church is one block from City of Lakes Waldorf School. Parking is available in the church parking lot.
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