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At the heart of the Waldorf approach, our Games and Movement curriculum fosters physical development, spatial awareness, social skills, and self-confidence. Through imaginative and developmentally aligned activities, students grow from playful exploration to skilled teamwork and athleticism.
Curriculum Overview
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      In the early grades, movement supports children as they learn how to be in a school environment. We focus on: - Spatial awareness and physical coordination 
- Self-expression and teamwork 
- Cooperative games, nature walks, and yoga 
 These activities help build a sense of rhythm, respect, and community. 
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      As students experience the “nine-year change,” they begin formal physical education. - Games emphasize group belonging and individual courage 
- Activities include structured tag, ball skills, and coordination challenges 
- No winners or losers—only meaningful experiences and social learning 
 Skills developed include: - Running, hopping, skipping, leaping 
- Throwing and catching with accuracy 
- Playing by the rules and staying focused 
- Gentle physical contact and spatial awareness 
 
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      Fourth graders crave challenge and adventure. - Activities are vigorous and team-oriented 
- Archery is introduced with a focus on safety and breath 
- Students improve through cooperation, not competition 
 Students learn to: - Play as a team with good sportsmanship 
- Master complex movements and game rules 
- Respect opponents and enjoy active play 
 
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      In harmony with their study of Ancient Greece, fifth graders prepare for the Pentathlon, a regional Waldorf event. - Focus on form, rhythm, and beauty in movement 
- Skills include discus, javelin, sprints, and long jump 
- Students learn to honor the Olympic spirit 
 Emphasis on: - Competing with grace and dignity 
- Supporting others and striving for personal bests 
- Balancing play and sport during this transition year 
 
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      As students grow into their changing bodies, we emphasize coordination and teamwork. - Games reflect the Roman ideals of discipline and form 
- Sports include soccer, archery, volleyball, and more 
- Geometry concepts are explored through movement and strategy 
 Students build: - Body control and game fundamentals 
- Focus, cooperation, and emotional maturity 
- The ability to gracefully win or lose 
 
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      With new strength and perspective, seventh graders sharpen their skills. - Emphasis on endurance, precision, and strategy 
- Deeper understanding of positions and roles in team sports 
- Students begin to lead and reflect on gameplay 
 They demonstrate: - Mastery of positions in volleyball, soccer, archery, and more 
- Refined coordination and sport-specific techniques 
- Emotional awareness through team dynamics 
 
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      Eighth graders balance independence and responsibility. - Activities combine games and structured sports 
- Students reflect on strategy, leadership, and sportsmanship 
- They take on mentorship roles with younger peers 
 Key skills: - Mastery of complex rules and strategies 
- Seamless teamwork and balanced competition 
- Confidence in physical expression and endurance 
 
Ms. Rachael Gage
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.
 
                        