General
- LifeWays practices are based upon the fundamental need for relationship-based care (bonding and continuity), neurological and anthroposophical research, and recognition of living arts (domestic, nurturing, creative and social arts) as central to the advancement of children’s social, emotional and intellectual skills. These practices can be applied in parenting, in childcare homes and centers, and early childhood programs in schools.
- In child care, “suites” consist of small groups of children who stay together with the same caregivers over a several-year period whenever possible, creating a more homelike atmosphere and better teacher-child ratios.
Emphasis is placed on play, with practical life skills such as building, gardening, cleaning, cooking, washing, repairing, sewing, care of the environment and creating simple beauty among other things.- Movement/play curriculum emphasizes child-initiated activities that promote healthy musculoskeletal development, providing opportunities for unstructured, spontaneous movement in a safe environment. Traditional games and finger-plays provide opportunities for the children to imitate healthy movement, develop. proprioception and vestibular capacities, and increase both their small and large motor skills.
- The children go outside in all but the most inclement weather. This helps them become more robust and strengthens their bond with the environment in which they live. A protected area is provided for crawlers and infants. Where it is possible, infants who fall asleep outside can remain outside, snuggly wrapped and covered in a buggy, until time to go in. Fresh air provides a deep, more restful sleep.
- Emphasis is on loving human interaction with warm speech, live singing, verses, and stories rather than technology. LifeWays early childhood settings are screen-free environments except for use in administration and adult education.
- Child guidance is based on the L.O.V.E. Approach to Discipline which includes Listening, Laughter, Order, Objectivity, Versatility, Vulnerability, Energy and Enthusiasm.
- Foundation for lifelong literacy is fostered through storytelling and puppetry, individual lap time with a book, through poetry, verse, and music on a daily basis, through drama, and through the daily interactions of play and movement in a healthy, secure environment.
- Pre-School/Kindergarten program is a developmentally appropriate, play-based approach found in Waldorf preschools and kindergartens throughout the world.
- We provide the best in natural organic foods (whenever this is possible) and involve the children in the food preparation.
- Festivals and celebrations, honoring the various cultural backgrounds of the families, as well as traditional seasonal festivals and birthday parties, are offered.
- When possible, ongoing relationships are established with senior adults and youth who visit on a regular basis.
- Foreign language –Community friends who speak a native language other than English may be invited to play simple games or sing simple songs with the children on a routine basis.
Specific to the Infants (in addition to the applicable points above)
- Infants are provided safe environments in which to explore and move freely – no walkers, bouncers, infant gyms, or other mechanical devices are necessary.
- The infants are carefully wrapped for sleeping to provide a healthy sense of security and warmth, and caps are provided to protect their sensitive heads and ears.
- Rocking and cuddling are encouraged to develop a healthy sense of touch and movement and to promote security, bonding and comfort.
- Physical care (diapering, clothing, feeding) provide focused time for connecting with the caregiver and may include a special name song for the baby or a simple nursery rhyme, and a gentle massage. Infants will be encouraged to participate in clothing themselves; for example, by learning to lift their own bottoms for diapering or pulling on their own socks when capable.
- Mothers are welcomed to come and nurse their babies when possible.
- Clear, articulate, melodic speech is expected of the caregivers when speaking to the infants throughout the day.