Merry Hearts uses the term “Waldorf” because it is the most widely recognized philosophy that best describes our own philosophy. Merry Hearts is Waldorf-inspired, in that we place a great emphasis on creative play and the development of the whole child. Waldorf education uses a whole-person approach to learning that is often referred to as the “head-heart-hands” method. Simply put, lessons are designed to stimulate a child’s mind, spirit and body simultaneously.
Waldorf uses what we call “rich language” to give children beautiful and challenging words to enhance speech development. It also incorporates whole-body movement into as many learning activities as is possible. Even meal blessings are active!
Waldorf philosophy seeks to support a child’s spiritual development. This is not religious education but encompasses basic socio-emotional values that we, as family, community and society need to get along peacefully. We incorporate lessons in empathy, consideration, love, peace, diversity, tolerance for differences, equity and compassion.
While you won’t find Merry Hearts registered with official Waldorf associations, we regularly use publications from these entities, attend trainings offered as continuing education for certified teachers and are engaged in open-exchange online forums with Waldorf teachers to share knowledge and ideas. We love so much of what Waldorf education has to offer and it offers a guiding set of principles in the development of our curriculum each day.