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.
Come over to the dark side and meet the amazing birds that exist by moonlight. Owl Prowls are an opportunity for families to learn about owls from the naturalists at the World Bird Sanctuary.
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.
Families are invited to the Saint Louis Art Museum on Sunday afternoon to participate in free hands-on art activities with fun themes and to explore the galleries. Each Family Sunday focuses on a different family-friendly theme.
Young visitors and their families are invited to the Life Science Lab Classroom at the Saint Louis Science Center to enjoy interactive read-alouds of science-themed picture books. Story times are followed by a short demonstration or discussion connected to the book's main concepts.
Sensory Friendly Science Time features reduced noise, modified lighting and sensory-friendly demonstrations at the Saint Louis Science Center.