Early Childhood

Programs for Pre-K 2's-4's, Kindergarten, and Forest Kindergarten | Named Parents Choice: Best of Baltimore, Best Preschool, by Baltimore's Child Magazine

Our early childhood program, often called "The Children’s Garden," is a welcoming, child-centered and nature-rich learning environment. Here we model and uphold the values of empathy, respect, kindness, compassion, and understanding. Here, we nurture each child’s natural curiosity, enthusiasm, and innate ability to learn social, emotional, and physical skills. Children’s Garden teachers constantly collaborate with each other and pursue professional development to deepen and differentiate our early childhood curriculum. We combine the best of Waldorf pedagogy with a strong understanding of child development and neuroscience. We lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning in each child.

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Pre-Kindergarten (2.5 - 4's)

In our nature-immersed preschool program, every day is an opportunity for hands-on exploration. Whether it's planting seeds in our garden, listening to the melody of birdsong during circle time, or feeling the texture of leaves during a nature walk, our students are not just learning about the world—they are living it. Here, nature is not just a backdrop; it's an integral part of our learning environment. Through outdoor exploration and nature-based activities, children develop a profound appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things. Our holistic approach to early childhood education is designed to spark imagination, foster creativity, and lay the groundwork for a solid academic future. Here, play is not just a pastime; it's a powerful tool for cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Our experienced, Waldorf-trained educators understand the unique needs of young children, guiding them through a carefully crafted curriculum that integrates play, nature, rich language, and artistic expression. Immersed in a warm and supportive environment, our children embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. From storytelling and wet-on-wet- watercolor painting to baking bread to outdoor adventures and rhythmic activities, every moment is an opportunity for growth and joy.

At Waldorf School of Baltimore, we recognize that early childhood is a pivotal time for building the foundation of lifelong learning. Our dedicated teachers create a harmonious balance between structured activities and free play all the while ensuring that each child's culture and individuality is cherished and celebrated. The consistent rhythmic structure of the day is unhurried, and intentionally meets the developmental needs of young children. Each day includes a long period of active play, snack preparation (chopping veggies for soup, or kneading dough for bread), a shared meal, communal clean-up, activities using natural materials, rest, and a movement rich seasonal circle time or story. We understand that children learn best through hands-on experiences and support this growth through thoughtfully planned activities.

Marigold Kindergarten and Forest Kindergarten

We offer two distinctive kindergarten classes: the Forest Kindergarten and the Marigold Kindergarten. The Forest Kindergarten thrives in the midst of the woods with a nearby gathering space for small group work and weather breaks. Teachers support and create a unique outdoor learning experience where students spend their days immersed in nature. From rain boots and jackets to sun hats and tee shirts, or even snow pants and gloves, children actively engage with the elements. Weather, in all its forms, is embraced as a teachable moment, fostering grit, perseverance and a profound understanding of the natural world. In Forest K, learning is an immersive, play-based experience, where children become naturalists, explorers, and storytellers. From building woodland shelters to observing the metamorphosis of caterpillars to butterflies, every moment is a lesson in curiosity and wonder. Foundational academic skills are cultivated through carefully planned activities and teachable moments during play or exploration outdoors.

Our Marigold classroom strikes a balance between indoor and outdoor activities, breathing out into the world of nature, and then breathing into a home-like environment, with open ended natural toys and purposeful work.

Both programs share the time-tested Waldorf Kindergarten curriculum. Rooted in movement-rich circles, captivating storytelling, hands-on activities such as painting and baking, craftwork, and work projects, these classes are designed to nurture a child's cognitive development and social emotional growth. Whether in the heart of nature or within the comforting walls of our indoor space, our commitment to delivering a comprehensive Waldorf experience remains unwavering.