Our Approach

Our curriculum supports the development of the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. We value the balance of academic growth, emotional well-being, and physical activity, promoting resilience and self-confidence.

We believe that nature is an essential classroom for learning and growth. Drawing from Forest School principles, we provide regular opportunities for children to explore the outdoors, engage with the natural world, and develop resilience, curiosity, and problem-solving skills.

In addition, inspired by Charlotte Mason's philosophy, we emphasize the importance of nature study, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the environment. Children connect with the rhythms of nature by celebrating the changing seasons through outdoor play, observation, and hands-on experiences. Students also have the opportunity to garden when seasonally appropriate, learning about planting, nurturing, and harvesting.

Our school is home to chickens, providing children with the chance to care for animals, understand responsibility, and appreciate the cycles of life. This deep connection to nature helps children develop a sense of responsibility toward the earth, while gaining valuable life skills and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Drawing on Waldorf principles, we create an environment that encourages imaginative play, artistic expression, and storytelling. These experiences lay the foundation for critical thinking, emotional expression, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

We integrate Core Knowledge to ensure a solid academic foundation, providing children with age-appropriate exposure to language, math, science, and cultural concepts. Our approach builds curiosity and a strong desire to understand the world around them.

Inspired by Reggio Emilia and Charlotte Mason, we believe that children are active participants in their own learning. Our classrooms are designed to foster curiosity and independence, allowing children to explore, ask questions, and discover the world around them at their own pace.

In the spirit of Charlotte Mason’s approach, we prioritize the development of character by encouraging virtues like kindness, responsibility, respect, and gratitude. Our curriculum includes living books and real-world experiences that inspire children to engage thoughtfully and empathetically with the world.

We believe in building a strong sense of community where children, families, and educators collaborate to create a supportive and inclusive environment. Through shared experiences and events throughout the year, we invite families to engage with one another, celebrate the joys of learning, and connect with the larger community. Our gatherings give families the opportunity to share Sonnenblume’s goodness with friends, fostering relationships and promoting social responsibility as children learn the value of kindness, cooperation, and contributing to the greater good.

We honor the developmental stages of each child, recognizing that learning is a process, not a race. Whether through Waldorf’s emphasis on rhythm and routine or Charlotte Mason’s focus on habit training, we respect each child’s unique timeline for growth and development.