Our approach at Mount Baker Preschool is based on the view that we need to address body, soul, mind, and spirit in all of our teachings. Mount Baker Preschool is a member of the Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America.  

Our teacher is committed to the principles of Waldorf Education and to creating a loving, nurturing and multidimensional experience for children and their families in the Preschool. All the parents joining the preschool are asked to support the teacher as she strives to offer the best possible environment for the children. The teacher is in charge of the curriculum; the parents help her provide a loving environment for the children. In this way, the children feel held safely by the adults. 

What Makes Us Unique?
We seek to create a space where children and parents are free from stress and have a sense of well-being. Our community is a group of diverse, multifaceted individuals who love and care for the children as if they were their own. We alternate between outdoor play, walks and quieter indoor activities. We provide soft colors, natural materials and a contained environment. The children are self-directed in their play and encouraged to be compassionate with each other and with their environment. We emphasize imagination, expression and creativity.

We welcome families of every race, creed, gender and ability. Families who are interested in our school are welcome to visit our Open House in February or March. We are committed to removing barriers that might prevent families from joining us. Scholarships are available upon request during enrollment and we encourage any family in need to apply.

The Daily Schedule
The day is scheduled to honor the children’s rhythms and breathing patterns and to allow full expression with the least interference from adults.

Outside play (rain or shine)

• Gross motor activities, including climbing, jumping rope, swinging and digging.
• Playing with sand, earth, wood and water.
• Gardening, feeding birds, caring for small creatures.
• Carpentry.
• Creative movement.

Inside play

• Circle: gatherings for a welcome, singing seasonal songs, playing finger games and saying verses in a quiet mood.
• Artistic activities: drawing, painting, working with beeswax, baking, sewing, candle-making, finger-knitting and seasonal crafts.
• Self-directed free play.
• Imagination, creativity, cooperation and compassion.
• Stories: recounted orally over several days, acted out or presented with puppets.
• Snacks: warm, wholesome grains, fruits and vegetables.

• Visit to local pumpkin patch.
• Lantern Walk.
• Festival of Light.
• Spring Festival.