First Grade

Where Learning is an Art and Childhood is Honored

The First Grade Journey: A Holistic, Joyful Start to Lifelong Learning

First grade in a Waldorf school marks a meaningful beginning—a time when your child’s natural readiness for learning is nurtured through a developmentally appropriate, whole-child approach. Waldorf first grade education engages the head, heart, and hands, creating a joyful, imaginative, and balanced foundation that inspires curiosity and a true love of learning.

Rather than relying on rote memorization, Waldorf education introduces core subjects like math, language arts, and science through vivid storytelling, music, movement, and visual arts. This arts-integrated curriculum helps children absorb and retain knowledge in a way that is emotionally resonant and developmentally aligned.

In the Waldorf first grade classroom, singing, drawing, painting, reciting, and dramatic play are not extracurricular—they are essential tools for deep learning. These activities strengthen not only academic skills but also creativity, emotional intelligence, and confidence.

Choosing Waldorf for first grade means investing in a holistic education that supports your child’s cognitive, emotional, and social growth. It’s a nurturing environment that honors childhood, encourages original thinking, and fosters capable, compassionate individuals who love to learn.

 

1st Grade Curriculum overview

Drawing: Curves, Straight lines, Patterns, Alphabet, Fairy tale and Folk tale pictures

English + Grammar: Capital and lowercase letters, Reading from own writing, Phonics, Short plays, Choral recitations

Science: Nature studies through observation and story

Handwork: Finger knitting, Two-needle knitting, Cast on, Bind off, Finishing

Literature: Rhythmic poems, Fairy tales, Folk Tales

Math: Whole numbers, Four arithmetic processes, Counting

Modeling: Beeswax: Simple figures, Scenes from fairy tales and folk tales

Movement: Seasonal games, Cooperative games, Circle games and activities, Jump rope, Hand-clapping games, Simple dances

Music: Seasonal games, Cooperative games, Circle games and activities, Jump rope, Hand-clapping games, Simple dances

Painting: Wet brush on wet paper painting using primary colors

Science: Nature studies via nature walks and field trips, Nature stories

World Language (Spanish + ASL): Songs, Games, Poems, Stories, Colors, Numbers, Basic vocabulary