Handwork

Handwork is a cornerstone of Waldorf education, recognized for its profound impact on the developing child. At The Waldorf School of DuPage, it is valued not as an extracurricular, but as an essential class for all students. Through activities like finger knitting, embroidery, and machine sewing, children build fine motor coordination, perseverance, creativity, and confidence. Each project is intentionally designed to match the child’s developmental stage—offering challenges that foster both skill and self-expression. Handwork is not just about making things; it is about nurturing capable, focused, and imaginative thinkers—qualities students carry with them for life.

Curriculum Overview

  • First graders begin with finger knitting and progress to four-finger knitting. Students even craft their own knitting needles before learning to cast on and knit. Their year-long project: knitting a flute bag—an introduction to working with purpose and pride.

  • Second graders build on their foundation with more advanced projects like rainbow balls, learning the purl stitch and color changes. With time, students take on playful, skill-building projects such as knitting a gnome.

  • In third grade, students are introduced to crochet, starting with basic chain stitches and moving to more complex forms. Depending on progress, the class may also explore embroidery or wool spinning—broadening their textile arts experience.

  • Fourth graders explore symmetry, precision, and design through cross-stitch and other embroidery techniques. Projects may include small wall hangings, table mats, pin cushions, or bags, blending artistry with useful form.

  • Returning to knitting, fifth graders learn ribbing and how to knit in the round using double-pointed needles. Projects often include socks, mittens, and hats—developing both skill and satisfaction through wearable creations.

  • In sixth and seventh grades, students focus on hand sewing. Sixth graders make stuffed animals, while seventh graders tackle more advanced projects like simple clothing, embroidered table mats, and felted items. These years encourage individuality and fine detail.

  • Eighth graders learn to operate a sewing machine, starting with patchwork pillows and progressing to sewing a simple bag independently. The year culminates in designing and sewing pajama pants—an empowering introduction to garment-making.

Ms. Thea Olsen

Rachael brings a warm, grounded presence and a wealth of experience to our Games and Movement curriculum at The Waldorf School of DuPage. A certified children’s yoga instructor through Rainbow Kids and an E-RYT 200-hour Yoga Alliance-certified teacher, she has a deep understanding of child development, mindfulness, and movement. As both a Waldorf teacher and a parent, Rachael is attuned to the emotional and physical needs of children and is passionate about helping them build self-regulation skills through playful, embodied learning. She is the founder of Starlight Studio, where she creates mindfulness-based programs for schools across Illinois. Rachael’s classes support students in strengthening coordination, confidence, and connection—all with curiosity, joy, and care.