Wildwood Park Discovery School, A Charlotte Mason-Waldorf combo preschool blends elements of the Charlotte Mason and Waldorf education philosophies, creating a unique approach to early childhood learning. Both philosophies emphasize a gentle, play-based start to education and focus on the whole child, but each brings its own distinct strengths. Combining them allows educators  and parents to craft a harmonious balance between the two.


Waldorf Principles: 
A Waldorf preschool is an early childhood education program based on the principles of Waldorf Education, which was developed by Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner in the early 20th century. Waldorf education emphasizes a holistic approach, nurturing a child's physical, emotional, and intellectual development through hands-on, play-based, and creative learning.

Key features of a Waldorf preschool include:

Play-Based Learning: Emphasis is placed on free, unstructured play as a primary mode of learning. Toys are often simple and made from natural materials to encourage imagination.

Rhythm and Routine: The daily schedule follows a consistent rhythm, providing children with a sense of security and predictability.

Connection to Nature: Outdoor play and exploration of the natural environment are integral parts of the curriculum, fostering a love for and connection to the natural world.

Creative Activities: Artistic activities like painting, drawing, storytelling, singing, crafting, and movement are central to the program, supporting emotional and creative development.

No Early Academics: Formal academic instruction (like reading and writing) is not emphasized in the preschool years. Instead, learning is focused on developing social skills, motor abilities, and imagination.

Warm, Home-Like Environment: Classrooms are often designed to feel cozy and nurturing, with natural light, soft colors, and materials like wood, wool, and cotton.

Waldorf preschools aim to honor the individuality of each child and allow them to develop at their own pace in a nurturing, creative, and play-focused environment.


Charlotte Mason Principles: 
A Charlotte Mason preschool is an early childhood education program based on the principles of Charlotte Mason, a 19th-century British educator. Her philosophy emphasizes a gentle and natural approach to learning, especially in the early years, focusing on developing good habits, instilling a love for nature, and introducing children to beautiful ideas and experiences.

Key elements of a Charlotte Mason preschool include:

Learning Through Life and Play: Mason believed that young children (under 6 years old) should learn primarily through unstructured play and real-life experiences, rather than formal academics.

Nature Study: Daily time spent outdoors is a cornerstone of a Charlotte Mason education. Children explore and observe the natural world, developing an appreciation for its beauty and fostering curiosity.

Living Books: Instead of dry textbooks, Mason recommended "living books" – engaging, well-written literature that sparks imagination and connects deeply with children.

Habit Formation: A significant focus is on forming good habits, such as attentiveness, kindness, orderliness, and self-control, as these lay the foundation for lifelong character and learning.

Short Lessons: Activities and lessons are kept brief to respect a child's natural attention span and ensure learning remains enjoyable.

Music, Art, and Poetry: Exposure to fine arts is an essential part of the Charlotte Mason approach. Children enjoy simple songs, art appreciation, and beautiful poetry to develop their sense of beauty and creativity.

Hands-On Activities: Activities like gardening, cooking, building, and crafts are encouraged to engage children in meaningful, real-world tasks.

Delaying Formal Education: Like Waldorf, the Charlotte Mason method advocates delaying formal academics until around age six. Before that, the focus is on exploration, play, and character development.

A Charlotte Mason preschool is designed to nurture a child’s natural curiosity, develop their character, and cultivate a love for learning in a peaceful, joyful, and wonder-filled environment.


Key Features of a Charlotte Mason-Waldorf Combo Preschool:

Nature-Centered Learning:
Charlotte Mason Influence: Daily nature study, observation, and time outdoors to foster curiosity and a love for creation.

Waldorf Influence: Seasonal rhythms and celebrating festivals tied to nature, encouraging a deep connection to the natural world.

Play-Based and Imaginative Activities:
Charlotte Mason: Free play outdoors and exposure to beautiful, meaningful "living ideas."

Waldorf: Unstructured, imaginative play with natural toys, like wooden blocks, silks, and wool dolls.

Gentle Introduction to Arts and Stories:
Charlotte Mason: Exposure to living books, poetry, and picture studies for early art appreciation.

Waldorf: Creative storytelling, fairy tales, and hands-on artistic activities like watercolor painting, beeswax modeling, and music.

Focus on Rhythm and Habits:
Charlotte Mason: Building good habits like attention, kindness, and responsibility as a foundation for life.

Waldorf: Daily and seasonal rhythms that provide a sense of security, flow, and predictability.

Delaying Formal Academics:
Both approaches agree on holding off on formal academic instruction until around age 6, emphasizing natural development and readiness.

Hands-On Practical Life Skills:
Charlotte Mason: Real-world tasks like gardening, baking, or household chores to teach responsibility and independence.

Waldorf: Crafts and activities that develop fine motor skills and creativity, such as knitting, sewing, or felting.

Spiritual and Moral Development:
Charlotte Mason: Typically incorporates reverence for God and the spiritual, often through Bible stories, hymns, and prayer. Our program focuses more on general inner/self spirituality to respect all forms of religion that may be practiced by families in our cohort.

Waldorf: Focuses on nurturing a sense of wonder and spirituality, often through storytelling and celebrating seasonal festivals.

Atmosphere and Environment:
Charlotte Mason: A quiet, peaceful atmosphere with books, music, and meaningful experiences.

Waldorf: A warm, home-like environment with natural materials, soft lighting, and an emphasis on beauty.

A Charlotte Mason-Waldorf combo preschool leverages the strengths of both philosophies:

From Charlotte Mason: The emphasis on habit training, living books, and early exposure to beautiful ideas.

From Waldorf: The focus on creative play, art, and a rhythmic connection to nature and the seasons.

This hybrid approach offers a nurturing, balanced, and enriching experience for young children, providing them with a foundation for lifelong curiosity, creativity, and character development.