Contributed by Sarah Wiberg (Parent-Child Class Teacher) & Nancy St. Vincent (Early Childhood Class Teacher)
Waldorf story telling captivates preschool children
Preschool Puppet Story Telling
One special part of a Waldorf Early Childhood experience is the use of puppetry to tell a story. The teacher is able to express a variety of deep story themes and soul moods with the simplest of gestures. The magic for the viewer, whether they are young or old, is that the atmosphere surrounding the story is held with complete reverence and respect. Lighting a candle and singing a simple song marks the beginning of this special time.
Engaging imagination in a preschool child
Stories rich in language and archetypical characters lay the foundation for creativity and imaginative thinking in the child. Colored silks and wools are used to reflect the seasons and the gestures of these archetypal figures. Puppets that are lovingly handmade bring the story to life. The puppets are often without faces so the child is free to have their individual experience of the story. The puppets and the props for the story are made from natural materials such as wool, silk, and wood. This connects the child to the natural world. Stories follow the characters as they experience joy as well as struggles. The characters are always able to find their way to the safety of home. This is a very comforting message. The life of a young child can have many challenges and they need to know that they have a safe and secure place to return to.
Experience the Waldorf way of story telling with your child
Every year, the early childhood faculty at Meadowbrook Waldorf School present a marionette or puppet show for Holiday Faire visitors. This event allows parents a peek into the special world that their children get to experience, and for children and adults who have never seen it before, an opportunity to connect with something truly magical. We invite you and your child to experience the wonder of story telling and puppetry at the upcoming Holiday Faire. Please come to witness this simple, beautiful gift.
Come join in the 2014 festivities at the Meadowbrook Waldorf School Holiday Faire.
Friday, November 21rd from 6-9 PM (Adults’ Night)
Saturday, November 22th from 10-4 (Family Day)