Parent and Child Program
Our Sweet Pea Parent and Child Program includes classes for parents and young children of different ages. It is the place where we welcome the newest and youngest members of our community, and we hope it is just the beginning of a long and mutually supportive relationship between you and our school and Waldorf education. Taught by early childhood specialists, parents observe, move, and interact with their young children in a nurturing, playful environment. Each week, different themes will focus on the foundations of movement development, the importance of rhythm, working with the senses, and building healthy habits. The Parent and Child Program is a wonderful introduction to Waldorf education, and we hope that the majority of the children will transition into our Kindergarten Program.
Each Week Includes:
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Circle time, with songs, movement, and rhythmical verses
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A story told with puppets
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Organic, whole grain snack
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Child development study
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Crafts and activities for parents
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Articles on aspects of early childhood to take home
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A focus on and support for healthy daily and weekly rhythms.
Parents and Infants
This class is for parents and babies who are three to four months old to newly walking. In an atmosphere of quiet observation, we will explore the beautiful and natural unfolding stages of very early childhood. Using a body-centered approach, the classes support bringing natural harmony and ease into the parenting experience. Each week, different themes will be presented to help us understand the foundations of movement development, the importance of routine and rhythm, working with the senses and building healthy habits. Pregnant mothers welcome! Free introduction classes offered on select Friday mornings.
PDF of Sweet Pea Baby & Parent Registration Form
For additional information please click here for a pdf.
For more information about this program please email the instructor, Birthe Kaarsholm.
Parents and Children - Walking to 4 Years
These classes are delightful opportunities to spend with your child and other parents in a Waldorf setting. The classes offer a first step into the world of Waldorf education for families, and life-long friendships have been known to develop. You will return home with valuable information and an enriching experience, which you can use in creating your own home rhythms. We will explore movement that offers ease, vitality, and balance; learn about specific developmental movement needs; understand how to support integration and sensory development in the young child; and develop insight and intuition while observing your child and others at play – understanding what you see and learning to offer what a child needs.
You and your child will engage in play, singing, and movement activities; create simple craft items; and experience stories and simple puppet shows you can do at home. Each session begins with gentle play as children and parents enter the room. The structure and the related activities help to create a self-assured, creative child and a peaceful, observant parent. Together, we will create an environment conducive to the healthy development of the child. We will discover the importance of rhythm in supporting the overall well being of the young child both at school and in the home.
For more information about this program please email the instructor, Margrit Haeberlin.
Sweet Pea Brochure and Registration Form
You may download and print this pdf of the Registration Form, and mail the completed form to the school along with your payment, or call the school to make a credit card payment.
Schedule and Registration Process for Parent and Child Program
Sweet Pea Parent and Child classes are available in two semesters throughout the school year. New families are welcome at any time, space permitting. Please contact the school office for space availability at (510) 223-3570, ext. 2101. Please also call for availability in regards to the Sweet Pea Infant Program on Wednesday Mornings. A completed registration form and check to reserve your place in a class. Completed forms will be processed in the order received. Please send in your payment with the registration section on the Sweet Pea Brochure and Registration Form in advance of each session. Make checks payable to East Bay Waldorf School. Drop-ins are permitted only if space is available. Drop-in rate is $25 per class.
