Grades
1-8
This stage of childhood encompasses ages seven through
fourteen. Over these years, as the child's consciousness
shifts from the pictorial to a more conceptual focus,
the imagination provides the path to learning. The curriculum
addresses this gradual shift by first introducing academic
subjects such as arithmetic and grammar through stories,
movement and song. These memorable and vivid images live
in the children as experiences rather than as abstract
concepts or arbitrary rules.
This stage is also a time when children need the consistent
guidance of a loving authority who serves as a worthy
role model. To provide continuity, Waldorf teachers
stay with the same class from the first through the
eighth grades. The teacher comes to know the children
well and is a able to nurture each child's intellectual
and artistic abilities in balance with his or her social
and emotional needs.
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