Age 8 (Waldorf Second Grade)

At this age, children begin to recognize the duality of human nature and the stories teachers bring to the students reflect that growing awareness. These stories still use archetypal imagery and feed their imaginations. Teachers tell fables from a variety of traditions, including Aesop’s fables, Jataka tales, trickster tales from West Africa and indigenous North American traditions, as well as stories of heroic deeds. 

In addition to the activities listed in the classes overview section, in class, the teacher tells a story. The children are encouraged to listen deeply, and later to integrate their thoughts with imaginative images. They then create artwork (watercolor painting, crayon drawing or beeswax modeling) based upon their understanding of the story. 

The teacher encourages and integrates frequent movement opportunities for the children throughout class time.

Classes Overview