Waldorf Weekend

Philadelphia public elementary schools, simply put, suck, as do most other cities' public schools. We have been researching private schools for a while now.I always loved the Waldorf philosophy, and after going to a Waldorf School's holiday craft fair today(the lovely button-jointed-all-organic-locally-made Waldorf doll on Ruby's bed was purchased there),I think we have made our decision.A Waldorf School is for our family.The poster below was hanging on one of the walls of the school:

The Waldorf philosophy is educating the whole child. Most schools put value only on one side of the brain, so they are educating,as Sir Ken Robinson said,"from the waist up and then to one side of the brain". I found the speech via Amanda Soule's Soulemama blog(the most inspiring blog EVER). If you haven't listened to Robinson's speech, find it here:

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/view/id/66

Why, when we have whole bodies? The Waldorf school values not only the typical school subjects,but also values Art,music,drama and handwork.

I am excited about my upcoming violin lessons! As a parent, I always want to lead by example. How can I expect Ruby to dabble in different things if I never try anything new? I have always wanted to learn to play the violin and I can't wait for the challenge!

We visited the Schuykill Center for environmental education this afternoon -wow- we saw tons of beautiful birds; the tufted titmouse and Carolina chickadee amongst them. It is only one mile away from us and is a huge forest in the city,left unmanicured, so it feels as though you're far away from any downtown area.

While sipping gingerbread chai lattes at a neighborhood coffee shop, we reflected on our day with much enthusiasm for the future and the family we will (hopefully) soon have.