Rosebud Caregiver & Child Program

Our Rosebud program is an introduction to Waldorf Early Childhood Education that allows parents/caregivers to experience a gentle, nurturing rhythm alongside their children. In this way, parents develop a picture of what takes place in a Waldorf Early Childhood classroom and gain insights into the hows and whys of this approach. 

Each week in the Rosebud class, we will follow the same rhythm as our Early Childhood classes, which will include making a wholesome snack that the children help prepare, free-play, a seasonal movement circle, simple craft-making, and, for the adults, discussions that center around child development. We will flow gently from one activity to another, cultivating children’s innate inclination to learn through doing. With an emphasis on simplicity, natural materials, and open-ended playthings, children can freely engage in self-initiated creative play. Through our practical activities and shared conversation in this peaceful and accepting space, the adults can support one another in their parenting journeys and build community together. 

I had the opportunity to interview Rebecca Crosby, a current 8th-grade parent, who shared her experience with Rosebud Parent & Child classes with Ms Susan many years ago. 

In looking back, what significance did the Parent & Child class hold for you?

I feel like it was the Parent & Child class that gently guided me toward a deeper understanding and appreciation for a child’s expansive and original creative capacities. Without the many learning experiences I encountered throughout the entirety of our Early Childhood experience at Cedarwood, beginning in the Parent & Child program, I would have underestimated the value of conserving my children’s authentic creativity.  Having that recognition, we put our efforts towards creating a home environment that supported the natural rhythms and inventiveness of our children. Now that our children are teenagers, I believe that their creative and determined approach to problem-solving and life in general is rooted in their early years at Cedarwood. 

LifeWays North America is an organization that provides consulting and training for Waldorf-inspired childcare providers. One of its guiding principles states the following: 

Children thrive in the presence of devoted caregivers who enjoy life and caring for children. They learn primarily through imitation/empathy and, therefore, need to be cared for by people with integrity and warmth who are worthy of being imitated. This is the foundation for learning and healthy development. 

Rosebud classes provide parents and children time to just be with one another in a warm setting and experience the joys of connectedness. I’m delighted to facilitate this introductory series and share time with families during the precious Early Childhood years. If you are interested in learning more about our Rosebud classes, please visit our website. Registration is currently open for our Winter and Spring classes, and we would love to have you join.