Early Childhood
In the Nursery, Preschool and Kindergarten, imaginative play is the most essential activity.
The Waldorf School of Santa Barbara's programs for the young child were developed with two basic tenets: that the child, before the age of seven, learns through imitation; and that play is the work of the young child. With these as a foundation, we create an environment worthy of a child's imitation, in which the children feel secure enough to explore the many possibilities for creative free play.
Soft colors, fresh flowers, and natural toys welcome students to the classrooms. An atmosphere of warmth and calm sets the stage for a rhythmical cycle of activities.
- Storytelling stimulates visualization, vocabulary, and memory.
- Free play and drama ignite the imagination and encourage social relationships.
- Counting games develop an awareness of numbers.
- Artistic activities explore color and motivate expression.
- Outdoor play and walks foster an appreciation of the natural world.
- Practical activities such as woodworking, baking and cooking,
sweeping, planting and watering the garden encourage an
appreciation of practical life skills. - Spanish instruction through games, songs and stories exposes the mind to another language and culture.
To become fully engaged in such activities is the child's best preparation for life and for future learning.