Our core influences come from the Waldorf kindergarten, (children's garden) and the progressive early childhood programs of Reggio Emilia, Italy. Waldorf education supports the child with a holding that carries him through his day rhythmically, with story, song and movement. The Reggio approach supports the child's intellectual and creative development through in-depth interdisciplinary studies, or inquiries.

At Rowanberry, we combine these two rich traditions in a way that provides a graceful and stimulating first school experience for the young child.

The environment has been lovingly created in a home setting, changing to honor the seasons and reflect the passions of the people who work and play here.

The Rowanberry School is a unique and eclectic program that is deeply rooted in progressive education ideology. The curriculum reflects a strong commitment to creativity, critical thinking, and celebration of diversity in all its forms.

Exploration

" In wisdom gathered over time, I have found that every experience is a form of exploration." - Ansel Adams

The surroundings are rich with opportunities in which the child's innate love of learning and discovery will begin to unfold. The garden, the warm and inviting materials, and the beautiful environment all invite exploration.

At Rowanberry School, children learn through everyday activities like baking bread, caring for the animals, and planting seeds in the garden. We gather together at ring time to listen to fairy tales and folktales, tell stories, sing songs, dance, do yoga, and play group games.

In a child's typical school day, he might explore a new painting technique, create a wooden sculpture with a hammer, nails, and wire, play with sand and mud, and illustrate a story in his journal. This method of experiential, meaning-based education values the whole child: head, heart, and hands, and honors different ways of learning and knowing.

Play

" Play is the only way the highest intelligence of humankind can unfold." - Joseph Chilton Pearce

Ample time is provided for "free play", as it encourages a deeper learning. It is through free play, through acting things out, that children absorb the world around them at their own pace.

Play offers unlimited opportunities for learning as children explore endless variations and extensions on an idea. Children who know how to play rarely become bored. Instead they become self-motivated individuals who learn how to solve problems, lead and follow others, and think creatively and imaginatively.

Connection

" All things are connected, like the blood which unites one family." - Chief Seattle

Through the unfolding rhythm of the day, the week, and the year, children at Rowanberry School gain a comforting sense of connection to their world. Seasonal celebrations help to foster a deep relationship with the cycles of nature, and emphasize the commonality of the human experience. Community festivals, such as May Faire and Mabon (harvest time) will be held to enrich the school experience for the children and their families.