Seattle, WA
Bright Water School

General Approach to Learning

	Play-based
	Play-based with some structure
	Predominantly teacher-led instruction
	Montessori
	Waldorf
	Co-op
	Reggio-Emilia

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Savvy Source's Comments

The Waldorf early childhood program provides a foundation that nurtures the child through all stages of development. By nourishing the mind and the senses through a healthy environment, imaginative play, artistic activity, language, verse, song, puppetry, fairy tales and storytelling, the Waldorf preschool and kindergarten foster the development of the whole child, physically, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually. The child is prepared, not only to develop cognitive skills, but also to live as a responsible, caring human being.

The early childhood program provides a protective, beautiful environment in which the young child can grow and develop. The program emphasizes imitation and participation in group activities. The Waldorf preschool and kindergarten nurture the imagination, an important aspect of thinking. In the early childhood program, we address the individual child and try to meet his or her needs; however, we also work to develop the social structure of the class in preparation for the elementary years. The focus of the development of the class is essential in a Waldorf school.

The young child experiences the world through movement and activity. The Waldorf kindergarten and preschool setting provides a rich environment and a wide spectrum of activities from vigorous play to quiet listening. The mixed-age group makes the Kindergarten more similar to the home environment and the daily and weekly rhythms help the child feel safe and secure. The rhythms of the day include creative play, artistic activities, work activities, nature experiences and fairy tales given in an atmosphere of beauty, harmony, and purposefulness.

In order to provide a solid foundation upon which subsequent academic learning can flourish, the early childhood program addresses the development of the young child's healthy physical body and habits, provides opportunities for social interactions, nourishes the creative imagination, and encourages a sense of wonder and reverence for all life.

(Excerpted from website)

Social Skills & Work Habits

OVERALL RATING (5.0)
This school has increased my child's:
Ability to listen and follow directions
Ability to sit still for longer periods of time
Ability to be a part of a group of children
Self-sufficiency and independence
Awareness of others’ feelings
Cooperation with other children

source:

Montessori? Waldorf? Play-based?

What school type is right for your child? Is one model better than another? What does the research say?

View an example from the Savvy Source guide to learn more.

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