The Primary Group begins their day at the outdoor classroom, with a morning circle around the fire, led by their main facilitator Reed. Around 9:30am they begin their journey around the farm and sometimes to the beach for a nature study. Nature study includes songs, stories, games, challenges and hands-on lessons, with their teacher Reed sharing her wealth of knowledge from 23 years of working as a naturalist and leading groups in the outdoors. They return to the outdoor classroom for lunch and then spend the afternoon from 1pm - 3pm inside the yurt. Classroom lessons in the yurt include bookwork to record their observations and experiences in the field. Indoor time also involves Waldorf extra main lessons, such as handwork, drawing, water colour painting, woodwork, and more, led by their co-facilitator Miss Carleen. The children experience each subject slowly and completely, using a holistic approach where they will be presented the topic, study it in a hands-on way, and record their learning. An example of this model is the November mushroom study: children searched for and identified mushrooms in the field, made mushroom spore prints for their nature journals, drew and labelled a blackboard diagram of mushroom physiology, and then needle felted examples of the real mushrooms they studied. The goal of this class is to follow a place-based curriculum, where children experience both directive and emergent learning, to expose children to hands-on opportunities and practical skills, and to offer opportunities for children to be observed and supported in their literacy and numeracy while keeping the focus on fun, connection, and exploration.

The Kindergarten Group is rooted in experiencing the magic of childhood through work and play. Their day begins with morning circle, songs, and movement exercises. Following the seasons and drawing inspiration from the farm setting, children then experience all the activities of a homestead, from cooking and baking to woodwork, handwork, nature crafts, and more. Next comes free play, where they process and learn about the world through the development of their imaginations. Each day involves at least an hour of outdoor time where children are immersed in the wonder of the farm and surrounding wild nature. Drawing from over 30 years of experience as a Waldorf Kindergarten teacher, their facilitator Miss Carleen guides their work and play with gentle loving authority and takes the time to deeply observe and understand each child’s individual nature. The precursors to more formal literacy and numeracy lessons are introduced through fine motor skills, storytelling, singing, rhythm games, and artwork. A focus on daily rhythm, exploration, social-emotional learning, and practical skills builds a strong foundation for the step up into the Primary Class.

The Parent and Tot Group is a short-term offering (7 sessions) that introduces you and your young child to the warm and magical setting of Wayfinders. The yurt is curated to encourage young children to explore with their senses in a safe and inviting atmosphere. During each class there are activities for both parent and baby.  Miss Carleen will share a craft and host a talk on child development and Waldorf education. This is an opportunity to connect with other families, relax in a wholesome and nurturing environment, and glean fundamental tips and ideas for raising your young one.
The cost of this program is $110 for the 7 sessions
Please inquire to sign up!