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"I
sincerely believe that for the child, and for the parent seeking
to guide him, it is not half so important to know as to feel.
If facts are the seeds that later produce knowledge and wisdom,
then the … impressions of the senses are the fertile soil
in which the seeds must grow. The years of early childhood
are the time to prepare the soil."
Rachel
Carson
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The Parent-Child
Group provides a gentle step from home to kindergarten, a
protected place where innocence and wonder are honoured and
imagination nurtured. The group serves as a gateway to Steiner-Waldorf
education in a setting similar to the kindergarten. Parents
have an opportunity to meet other parents. They can share
parenting experiences and challenges, ask questions, and learn
more about the Steiner-Waldorf approach. The parents do most
of the guiding and disciplining of their own children but
the leader is always available to help or make suggestions.
Each session is arranged with a balance of active, outgoing
activities and quieter, more focused activities. The activities
of the session and their order vary but they will be composed
of the following themes :-
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During the playtime,
parents may participate in craft projects, as well as helping
to prepare the snack and set the table. Our involvement in purposeful
work deepens the children’s involvement, as they imitate us
in their play. Homely surroundings and natural play materials
aim to enhance the intrinsic imagination and creativity of the
small child. During the craft activities there is an opportunity
to join in conversation, while being aware of the children.
A baking activity may be provided for the children to join in. |
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At the ringtime
we form a circle to sing songs and say verses from everyday
life as they relate to the seasons of the year. During ringtime
parents participate with their children. The leader strives
to be a worthy example as she guides the children in structured
activity and free play. The children take it all in, whether
they participate or not. In time, most children want to join
in and be part of the activity.
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We start tidying
up with a simple song and this work is mainly the responsibility
of parents and leader. The children take part as they are
able. Again, children learn best by imitation and love to
help put the "horses in the barn" or the "dishes
in the cupboard".
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Before snack time
we start with a hand washing song and all the parents and
children are invited to wash their hands. Snack is time for
sitting at a table sharing food and company. A candle is lit,
a blessing sung and thanks given at the end of the meal. Snack
provided is wholesome and organic and may include fruits,
vegetables, rice cakes and bread.
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A simple, short,
seasonal story is illustrated with puppets. The same story will
often be told for a number of weeks so that it becomes familiar
to the children. Children love repetition, and with each repetition
the pictures and themes of the stories are strengthened and
deepened in their imagination. This provides a strong foundation
for the development of memory. |
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the gardens and woods at Alder Bridge School are so inviting,
we play in the garden or take a walk to the wood at every session.
Children and parents should be dressed appropriately for the
weather; waterproof clothes and wellies for wet weathers, sunscreen
for the hot weather and hats for the children all year around. |
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session finishes with the Goodbye Song which is both an affirmation
of time together as well as a reminder of future meetings. |
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During the session
inside and outside you are expected to keep an eye out for
your children. Please also be aware that some conversations
are inappropriate for children. Loud verbal or any physical
disciplining of your child is discouraged.
Once you have
decided to join the group, please try to come on time and
regularly. This is important for the children so that the
group can become a familiar and secure place for them.
There are plenty
of toys and materials, so please do not bring these from home.
We ask that children
only eat at snack time. If your child needs to eat at other
times, please mention this to the leader who will direct you
to an appropriate place. This does not include feeding babies.
Please bring inside
shoes or slippers for your child and yourself.
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Families in the
Parent-Child groups are welcomed and encouraged to participate
in the community festival celebrations, craft, singing and
study groups, and other events that take place at Alder Bridge
Steiner-Waldorf School. Our school newsletter and flyers announcing
upcoming events are distributed by group leaders.
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There is a family contribution, currently £7 per session,
which is invoiced in advance for half a term (no refunds for
sessions you are unable to attend). This system secures your
family a place in the group. A concessionary rate is available
for families unable to pay the full cost. If you are interested
in joining a group, please contact the school office (0118
971 4471) or email: parent-child@alderbridge.org.uk
to arrange a time for you to visit for a taster session. There
will be no charge for this first visit.
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Alder Bridge Parent
& Child Group
Aldermaston Parent &
Child Group
Newbury Parent &
Child Group
Sunbeams Garden Parent
& Child Group
or contact Alder Bridge School (0118 971 4471)
or email:
parent-child@alderbridge.org.uk.
Also there is the Applestar
Parent & Child Group (run by out friends at St Luke's
Trust) at Caversham Hall in Reading. For more information
about this please contact Lisa on 0118
9866 301, or email:
info@applestar.co.uk
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