Lifeways Practices

• LifeWays practices are based upon the fundamental need for relationship-based care (bonding and continuity), neurological 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.

• In child care, “suites” consist of small groups of children who stay together with the same caregivers over a several-year period, creating a more homelike atmosphere and better teacher-child ratios.

• Emphasis is placed on practical life skills such as building, gardening, cleaning, cooking, washing, repairing, and sewing, 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 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.  

• Emphasis is on loving human interaction with warm speech, live singing, verses, and stories rather than technology. LifeWays Programs are television- and video-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.