Friends of Sanderling Waldorf School

Harvest

2011-10-26T12:51:00.001-07:00

We, in modern society, are far removed from the origin of our food. We overlook the work & process of cultivation and the celebration of harvest. We take our good fortune for granted, and in most circumstances, fail to honor the journey.

Planting the seed within our children to be cognizant and mindful is an underlying principle within our school. The little ones are taught not the superfluous, but the root of a concept. Food included. The nursery/kindergarten class bakes bread each morning for snack. The grades children visit a farm and harvest vegetables to be prepared for their Sukkot festival.

This autumn, the younger children experienced an interactive Harvest Festival on October 11th. Colonial blacksmiths, weavers & spinners showed their processes, while hand-pressed apple cider was prepared and shared. Imagination ran abound as "horses were shod for the upcoming winter, " wool was spun for knitting warm clothing fireside" & "apples were harvested and pressed for nourishment and celebration." The autumn light cast it's sidelong rays and one could almost smell the apple pie baking.

What I Like Most About My School

2011-10-23T18:56:00.000-07:00

"I love school.

I wake up everyday excited and ready to be with my teacher and friends for a fun learning day!

What I love most about school is that I go to a wonderful school that makes me happy.

My teacher is great because she cares for you like one of her children…."

Vivian Drewelow, a 6th grader in Mrs. Duckstad's 5th/6th grade class, recently authored an essay entitled "What I Like Most About My School" for a school-contest sponsored by Albertson's and Sea World.

The US Mail on September 1st delivered a letter announcing Vivian as the winner! While we're excited about her breakfast with Shamu & two new computers, we're even more thrilled that, to quote Viviane, "I am happy kid because I just love going to school."

What could be a better prize than that?

Cookies

2011-05-23T14:25:00.000-07:00

Didn't we all have a lemonade stand growing up? At least, I did. I remember the process .... drawing posters to advertise my wares; collecting coins from my piggy bank for change & making the watery brew I would pass off as refreshing. So many little lessons learned in one productive afternoon.

This past month, Ms. Melanie's 2nd/3rd grade applied their currency prowess hosting their 1st annual bake sale. A cloudy, misty Saturday morning on Neptune in Leucadia provided the proving ground for their newly acquired skill-set. A successful exercise with a little fun mixed in for good measure.

Flowers

2011-05-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

Have you ever laid in the grass & woven a crown of flowers? Selecting each bloom for its beauty & simple perfection ... crowning yourself queen and your sweet little one, princess ... finding yourself walking with your head held high, while your feet skip & dance in the frivolity of the moment. Cloudless blue sky, radiant warm sunshine ... you play among nature's gifts ever thankful for the simple joy of life.

On May 6th, Sanderling celebrated the rite of spring with its annual May Faire celebration. Enjoy Embry Rucker's time capsule of the moment.

Biology, Astronomy, Geography & Geology

2011-04-21T14:45:00.001-07:00

The Waldorf approach to science is to cultivate an attitude of awe, allowing children to experience the marvels of science around them. Additionally, reverence and a training of the senses is considered vitally important to opening the way for scientific experiences. Furthering the belief, that humans can in fact be participatory observers of life, not merely outside observers.

Ms. Duckstad’s 4th/5th grade spent a 3-day excursion on Catalina Island submersing their senses in the natural world. On snorkel dives, the students explored the island’s kelp forest, rocky crags and experienced bio-luminescence firsthand as they witnessed plankton “light up” after dark. Studies of astronomy, geography and geology were conducted as they hiked the surrounding area - our beautiful planet providing the laboratory, classroom and textbook for this miracle we call life.

Encore

2011-04-21T14:45:00.000-07:00

Fairy tales have enormous value in the life of a child. They educate, support and liberate their emotions, providing a bridge for children to come to terms with their own inner dilemmas. Steiner said, “The human soul has an inextinguishable need to have the substance of fairy tales flow through its veins, just as the body needs to have nourishing substances circulate through it.”

Storytelling is a key tool in the Waldorf education. As the children progress through the grades, storytelling expands into performance. Short plays becoming a fixture of the curriculum. Mr. Gerbeau’s 1st Grade recently performed Grimm’s Rose Red & Snow White. Two casts, three performances, beautiful costumes and amazing light … bravo, bravo!

Passing the Torch

2011-04-21T14:40:00.001-07:00

The Ancient Greeks invented athletic contests and held them in honor of their Gods. History credits the commencement of the Olympic Games to 700BC in honor of Zeus. Following a long line of athletes before them, Ms. Duckstad’s 4th/5th grade participated in the Waldorf Schools of Southern California's Olympic Pentathlon. Fittingly held during the student’s Greek curriculum block, the event represented a day to bring forth the good and beautiful housed within.

Held in Los Angeles, each student was grouped into one of four city-states: Athens, Thebes, Corinth or Sparta. Participating in games within their city-state group, the students competed throughout the day in discus, javelin, wrestling, long jump and running. Each individual offering their energy, challenge and triumph to their chosen God or Goddess, and even more importantly, to themselves.

Give Me Shelter

2011-04-04T09:23:00.000-07:00

Shelter can be defined as a basic structure providing cover. Such a simple definition for one of life's three basic necessities. Ms. Melanie's 2nd/3rd grade completed their shelter block study with the hands-on creation of a log cabin. Measuring, sawing, assembling, hammering & painting. The shelter came together as much more than the practical application of their schoolwork. More so, a building in confidence & ability - a symbol within the children that they are learning to care for themselves.

If you haven't taken a moment, please stop by and check out the new fixture on the grade school play yard. Each child has left their mark, not only in their presence, but visually as a hand-print on the structure's facade.

Love

2011-04-04T08:58:00.000-07:00

Mother Theresa once said, "we can do no great things, only small things with great love." Fittingly, Rose Nursery/Kindergarten sponsored the Rhythm of Love fundraiser benefiting the Sanderling School. The evening featured silent & live auctions, raffles, a tapas spread and a groovy performance by Quinoa & The Millets. None other than a pop-up band comprised of parents, board members and Sanderling's 1st grade teacher, Jason Gerbeau.

Sanderling School depends strongly on the fund-raising efforts of its parental community. This past year, we have experienced many events - some large, some small and not one in itself overly significant. But in total, these "small things" - fueled by the love parents have for their children and the strong belief they have in their future - have become monumental.

Giving

2010-12-16T17:37:00.000-08:00

Dear friends and family:
Our school is having their annual fund-raising campaign. This holiday, while thinking about Christmas gifts, we’d like to ask you to consider a donation to our school. We hope you can help contribute. It’s truly a special place.
With love...

Santa Lucia

2010-12-16T17:33:00.001-08:00

In Sweden, the Christmas celebrations begin with Santa Lucia. According to legend, Saint Lucia appeared during a great famine delivering food to the starving, her head encircled with light.

Traditionally, the daughter of the house wakes early and brings everyone a special breakfast in bed: sweet saffron buns, coffee and cookies. She is dressed in white, with a long red sash and a wreath with lighted candles on her head. She sings "Santa Lucia" as she makes her rounds.

Ms. Melanie's 2nd/3rd grade illuminated the halls with candle light and song on Monday, December 13th. The children passed out buns to their schoolmates, lending a sweet beginning to the last week of school before the holiday break.

Spiral

2010-12-16T17:30:00.000-08:00

We experience light during its transformations. Most poignantly, during the dying light of late November and its rebirth in early May. This observation is not merely external, but rather founded deep in our souls. We feel the warmth of the sun in our hearts, in the same way, we feel love in our lives. Our modern day separation from nature feels sometimes like exile. Our festivals strive to reconnect us. They become habit, tradition and if nothing more ... they are sentimental.

Winter Spiral is celebrated each December. A quiet, introspective ceremony centering around the confined light of our days. Each child walks the evergreen spiral, lighting a candle from the central flame, placing his illumination along the pathway as he exits. Amid the bustle of this joyous season, we find a softness, a calm in this night. Even if only for a few moments. We stop and reconnect.

Color

2010-12-16T17:15:00.001-08:00

Events color our lives, brightening the mundane, adding texture to the smooth flow of our daily routine. A time when everything seems more alive, with greater detail and intensity. As a community, occasions force us to pull together and give from ourselves beyond what we would normally consider. While to the outside, these celebrations portray a rainbow-hued sense of reality.... one full of invitation, energy and pure joy.

Sanderling hosted its 2nd annual Craft Fair on November 13th. Through hand-selected vendors, puppet shows, crafts, games, hand-pressed cider and savory baked goods, we showed the greater community who we are and what we stand for. Delivering not only a magical autumn day for our children and their families, but a colorful glimpse into our amazing little world.

Lanterns Shining

2010-11-09T17:19:00.000-08:00

Light illuminates our world. We guide our daily rhythm by its warm, nourishing glow. The first rays of the day evoke an internal energy, while the soft tones of the setting sun call for a sense of closure. Our lives are more active and energized in the long summer days, while autumn's ambiance creates a gateway to another time. We are creatures of light.

Sanderling's beloved Lantern Festival was celebrated on Friday, November 5th. Folk songs pierced the rhythmic background of surf crashing. Soft, glimmering orbs sparkled on the beach. We gathered ... held together in the warm glow.

Clear and dark the night ... children of the light are we.

enchanted

2010-11-09T12:50:00.000-08:00

The young child lives in a dream-like consciousness where the outer world and inner experiences flow seamlessly together. Where life is discovered - sweet and pure. Embracing the season of Halloween from a place of wonder, Nursery/Kindergarten enjoyed a magical enchanted walk on Friday, October 29th.

The journey began with a greeting from a handsome woodsman inviting the children to enter under an arbor of fall leaves scented with fragrant spices. Exploration unveiled a garden princess bestowing wool felted balls; red riding hood presenting red, crab apples; a butterfly fairy with gossamer-winged friends; a beautiful maiden serenading the air with soft flute music; a good witch granting each child a story wrapped in a magical wand and the path concluded with a teddy bear picnic complete with home-made muffins.

As if stepping into a fairy tale...even if only for a day.

Día de los Muertos

2010-11-04T11:37:00.000-07:00

Ms. Duckstad's 4th/5th Grade continued their immersion into global cultures this week, while paying homage to their ancestors, as they celebrated The Day of the Dead. Celebrations in Mexico have been traced back to indigenous peoples with rituals observed by these civilizations for over 2,000 years. The holiday occurs on November 2nd in connection with the Catholic holidays of All Saints' Day (November 1) and All Souls' Day (November 2). The celebration focuses on family & friends as they remember those who have passed on.

Led by Spanish Teacher, Senora Vanessa, the children studied traditions connected with the holiday including creating an alter and honoring the deceased with sugar skulls, marigolds & favorite foods. It looks as if the spirits were called to return & enjoy the day in grand fanfare ... the children, meanwhile, enjoyed the beauty of life itself.

Carving Jack

2010-10-22T13:10:00.001-07:00

Remember carving your first Halloween pumpkin? Wielding an over-sized knife, you struggled to pierce the hard, seeming impenetrable rind. Cut after cut, concentrating with the sincerest dedication to ensure your lines were straight. Plunging your hand into the cold, slimy innards only to feel the hard, wet seeds among the gourd’s dark, meaty interior cavity. Then...the tell-tale itch as the juice began to penetrate your skin.

It almost seems morbid doesn't it - and some say hauntings aren't suitable for children!!!

Making festive use of our rainy weather, Ms. Melanie's 2nd/3rd Grade created jack-o-lanterns Stingy Jack, himself, would have been proud of. For it's that time of the year, when the sun sets early, fog descends and we watch with careful eyes for ghosts, goblins, ghouls....and even gourds!

Strength Through Struggle

2010-10-07T10:54:00.000-07:00

Finding strength in the face of adversity - almost a mantra for the age we live within. Our world celebrated the autumnal equinox on September 22nd. For the first time since 1981, we welcomed the new season with a full harvest moon. This is a pivotal time when day & night fall into balance - for after the equinox the days become noticeably shorter. Diminishing daylight brings a dark side to our mindset - one we may wish to banish from our lives. It is in overcoming this obstacle; we embrace the work of the Michaelmas season. We help our children to let go of issues by encouraging them to look introspectively at the light of Michael.

Speaking of obstacles….the key players seem a little confusing don’t they? So, who is Michael??? None other than the archangel responsible for hurling Lucifer from Heaven. How are Michael and George intertwined? Theories claim Saint George was an earthly representative of Michael in his deeds. It helps that he was known to have slain a dragon or two in his time.

The Legend lives on in the hearts of our children and the strength of our community. We gathered at Oakcrest Park on Friday, October 1st to relive the noble knight's bravery as Ms. Melanie's 2nd & 3rd grade performed St. George and the Dragon. Dragon bread, games and feats of strength & courage were enjoyed by all...perhaps invoking the inner strength to shine amid the darkness.

On a Race for Funds

2010-09-21T11:36:00.000-07:00

Fund-raising is a vital part of our school. Not only does it raise monies for supplies and enhancements, it serves as a bridge to bring us closer together as a community. Our philanthropy was overhauled this year by creating a modest financial goal for each class. How each sector chooses to raise their assigned funds is optional – creativity encouraged.

Miss Megumi’s Sweet Pea class pioneered the initiative on September 10th hosting Vicki Abeles’ ground-breaking documentary, Race to Nowhere. The LA Times noted “Once upon a time kids got to hang out, play, do nothing in particular. Increasingly there's been an outcry against how structured — and future-focused — the lives of America's college-bound students have become. As "Race to Nowhere" demonstrates, the intense pressures they face, sometimes before they've reached the double-digit age bracket, continue to take their toll: rampant cheating, sleep deprivation, anorexia, depression, anxiety, self-mutilation, suicide.”

If you haven’t seen the film - it’s worth an hour and a half of your time. It may just change the way you see your children and their future.

Friendship

2010-09-09T16:54:00.001-07:00

fall is here, hear the yell
back to school, ring the bell
brand new shoes, walking blues
climb the fence, book and pens
i can tell that we are gonna be friends
-jack white

The gray, crisp morning of September 7th commenced the first day of school for Sanderling's grades. Our annual Flower Ceremony was held on a lawn of dewy, green grass under an umbrella of leafy trees. We joyously welcomed six new families to the 2nd-5th grades & ten children to the first grade.

As Ms. Melanie’s 2nd-graders presented sunflowers to the new students - calm descended. The children found each other no longer separate, but part of a group...a community. As they held hands & walked to the door of their classroom under a canopy of loving arms - some smiled, some looked around and some thought....yes, we are going to be friends.

A Night Everything But Silent

2010-06-09T12:41:00.001-07:00

Under the stars on May 15th, Sanderling came together for its annual Silent Auction. Soft music played background to Emcee, Jon Cofinas, as parents & friends bid on beautiful items from the surrounding community and beyond. Generous monies were raised in support of our growing school. A warm thank you to everyone who donated items, time & effort - every moment shared was for the enrichment of a child's life. How truly precious.

Sugar Sweet

2010-06-01T07:02:00.000-07:00

Do you remember your first farm visit? The amazing animals who seemed larger than life with mannerisms not too far off from your family pet. The vegetables & fruit growing in abundance around every corner. The sweet smell of hay... and the not so sweet smell of manure.

I remember my first outing, almost like yesterday. The opportunity to interact with creatures I had only seen in picture books was life-altering. I found a new appreciation for my morning milk and a saddened heart for my evening dinner. I understood vegetables were plants growing in dirt, much like my beloved trees and flowers. Most importantly, I realized life is precious and nothing, not even dinner, comes without hard work.

Ms. Maxine's Nursery/Kindergarten class explored Sugar Sweet Farm in Olivenhain this month. Perhaps it was an eye-opening experience...maybe not. Nonetheless, it looked like a wonderful day in the sun.

In Bloom

2010-05-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

Flowers dot the canvas of our lives. We celebrate among them, mourn with them & hopefully, somewhere along the way, run amidst fields of their beauty.

We explore them, count love upon them & scent our world in their fragrance. Each & every bloom embodies innocence.

Nursery/Kindergarden concludes each Wednesday with a nature hike. Coveting our innate connection to nature, this stroll is childhood personified.

On a Fair May Day

2010-05-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

May Day's origin dates back to before the birth of Christ. Like many ancient festivals it has a Pagan connection. The may pole, per se, was used in Briton to usher in spring and ensure fecundity in crops and livestock. Villagers would go into the forest, cut down an appropriately sized tree, and decorate it in the town square with ribbons and flowers. The English may have inherited this festival from the Romans, who threw some legendary spring bashes of their own.

Sanderling looked to the Romans for inspiration on May 1st. Ringing in the rite of spring with true European fanfare. Traditional singing & dancing commenced the ceremony with dining and games following. For us veterans, the festival’s energy creates an aura lasting through the end of the school year. While those witnessing it for the first time found themselves lost in the gaiety. All in all, a legendary party in its own rite.

Embry Rucker captured some endearing shots, check out his slideshow.

Over the Rainbow Bridge

2010-04-20T11:30:00.001-07:00

Last month the Nursery/Kindergarten play-yard received a whimsical makeover. Mom, Amy Hite designed & implemented a beautiful gnome garden for the children to explore. Centered around the existing playhouse, the interactive space now includes a river rock stream, hand-tied log bridge and plenty of drought-tolerant flora. An assembly of teachers, parents and tots turned the idea to reality on Saturday, March 28th - thank you to everyone who lent a helping hand.

Nature

2010-03-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

Spring field trips provided outings to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve & the Batiquitos Lagoon.

1st/2nd grade hiked Torrey Pine's Guy Fleming trail and visited the historic Nature Center. Known as an "usual landscape" since the 1500's, Spanish sailors noted the landmark as Punta de los Arboles or Wooded Point.

The following week the children enjoyed 6 miles of trails surrounding the Batiquitos Lagoon. Nestled between Carlsbad and Encinitas, the lagoon is one of the few remaining tidal wetlands on the southern California coast. Dotted with mature groves of eucalyptus trees, the young explorers found a rope swing providing a spectacular coastal view and the opportunity to soar.

The Serious Work of a Child

2010-03-14T11:21:00.000-07:00

Creative play is the central activity in the life of a healthy young child. It allows him or her to weave together and digest life experiences and make them their own. A child’s love of learning is intimately linked with a zest for play.

Many school children no longer have the freedom to explore nature. Physical education and recess are often eliminated; informal games are an activity of a by-gone era as children are herded into organized sports.

Sanderling respects, promotes and encourages creative play - it a central component of the curriculum. Additionally, at home play-dates are a cherished after school activity. The children explore, create, interact and learn beyond the walls of the physical school. While we, enjoying their innocence, watch them blossom and flourish.

East Meets West

2010-03-07T12:45:00.000-08:00

Ms. Maxine's Rose Nursery/Kindergarten class celebrated China's most important traditional holiday, the Chinese New Year, on February 23rd with a joyful school-wide procession. The children donned red clothing to ward off bad fortune, while a fierce dragon danced through the halls evicting evil spirits. Post-fanfare, it was back to class for won ton soup-making.

Dale, dale, dale - No pierdas el tino!

2010-02-07T16:30:00.000-08:00

Most associate piñatas as a Latin party activity. However, piñatas actually originated in China. Marco Polo discovered the Chinese fashioning animal figurines & covering them with brightly colored paper. The figures were then clubbed with sticks and seeds spilled forth. The remains were burned & the ashes gathered as a good luck omen for the coming year.

Our grades students learned not only the historical facts of this tradition, but also, the craft itself this past month. Led by their Spanish teacher, Senora Vanessa, the children molded & pasted several piñatas for silent auction at Sanderling's first annual Latin Night. The event raised monies for materials and costumes for the Spanish program.

Form Drawing

2010-01-29T11:57:00.000-08:00

Form drawing, the freehand drawing of geometric shapes, is a subject taught in Waldorf schools. The technique was created by Rudolf Steiner to help develop a young child's handwriting, hand-eye coordination, ability to concentrate and other capacities. Children learn that every shape in the world consists of either straight or curved lines, or some combination of the straight and the curved.

Ms. Melanie's 1st & 2nd grade practice form drawing every Friday afternoon at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas. The tide provides a natural canvas for the children to hone their techniques, while the surf & sun foster an environment one could only dream of learning within.

Friday

2010-01-20T13:00:00.000-08:00

One of the most endearing aspects of our school is its ease of transition. The slow movement from imaginative play, the soft graduation into the grades, and on a smaller level the sweet ending to each school week.

The grades children bid farewell to their peers each Friday afternoon at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas. For Ms. Melanie's 1st/2nd grade class, the last lesson of the week is form drawing followed by free play - parents and friends gather & the afternoon slowly melts away into early evening.

Sanderling Waldorf School: Moonlight Beach from Embry Rucker on Vimeo.

May Light Arise in our Garden

2010-01-06T11:16:00.000-08:00

As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, we treasure the gifts of light and community. The Winter Spiral Celebration took place on Saturday, December 12th.

Every child enters this beautiful festival with a mood of wonder and quiet anticipation. Walking along the scented evergreen path, all is quiet except for the soft notes of the lyre. Ambient light reflects from the children’s faces as they place their candle along the spiral & return to their seats – the room illuminates brighter and brighter, until the light of the community glows strong.

Season’s Greenings

2010-01-06T11:13:00.000-08:00

Sanderling participated in the 2009 Encinitas Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 5th.
In keeping with this year's parade theme, Season's Greenings - Celebrating All Things Environmental, the children created a float entitled A Walk in the Woods.

Twinkle-lit canopies of trees hosted fairies, plants & animals – a magical vision, whether sipping hot cocoa from the sidelines or walking the 101. Thank you to Rose Kindergarten mom, Amy Ruecker, for leading the effort.

Fun in the Autumn Sun

2009-11-30T11:22:00.000-08:00

Sanderling hosted it’s first annual Craft Fair on November 14th. With over 20 local artisans, petting zoo, kids craft area, puppet shows, live entertainment & organic food – it was a wonderful time for kids and shoppers alike!

All proceeds went to benefit the school - many kudos to coordinator, Lindsy Richards, & her team of helpers for an amazing job!

My Lantern Shining Near & Far

2009-11-09T12:39:00.000-08:00

The light from Spirit depths
Strives to ray outwards, sun-imbued;
Transformed to forceful will of life
It shines into the senses' dullness
To bring to birth the powers
Whereby creative forces, soul-impelled,
Shall ripen into human deeds.
-Rudolf Steiner

Our souls embrace the seasons - each shift awakens our senses to the earth’s breath. In autumn, we celebrate Martinmas, our lantern festival. We cherish Father Sun's last autumn rays, which we will carry within to guide & guard us in the cold, winter months ahead.

Our festival's namesake, St. Martin, was known for his generosity and ability to bring warmth and light to those in need. Hence, we celebrate with gifts of food, light and song.

Each class volunteers pots of soup, fresh breads & warm cider to be shared on the beach as the sun descends. When darkness falls, the children illuminate their hand-made lanterns, gathering on the sand as the waves crash in the distance.

Our children's lanterns protect their inner flames, shielding them from the dark winter nights. Let us celebrate the joy of giving and receiving & the beautiful light within each of us.

To Scare a Crow

2009-10-27T13:09:00.000-07:00

The oldest surviving book in Japan, the Kojiki (compiled in the year 712), depicts a scarecrow, known as Kuebiko, appearing as a deity who cannot walk, yet knows everything about the world.

Miss Maxine’s Rose Nursery/Kindergarten class recently constructed our own all- knowing divine beings with the help of moms Mary Ann Sims and Maureen Feeney. The children stuffed clothing, tied corn husks and created facial features on pumpkin heads - alas, welcome Sanderling Scarecrows!!

Please feel free to ask our autumn visitors a thought-provoking question or two. We have yet to determine if they, like Kuebiko, know everything, or anything, about the world.

Food for Thought

2009-10-18T12:42:00.001-07:00

There is something beautiful & sweet about packing your child’s lunch for the day. Almost serving as a bridge between home and school, food from mom (and/or dad) creates a sensory reminder for our little ones of where they are from and where they will return to.

Our nursery/kindergarten classes enjoy a snack prepared at home and brought in a basket. Lunch is a meal prepared together and shared together - usually in the form of an organic soup, homemade bread or grain. The grades children savor both a mid-morning snack and lunch from home. A communal table is shared by all children in our school as they converse and relish tasty, wholesome treats. Growing brains need nourishment – organic fruits, vegetables & grains are favorites.

In an attempt to reduce waste, children are encouraged to use canteens, cloth napkins and snack bags, recycled glass jars and stainless steel containers. Some favorite products include: semilla snack bags, klean kanteen and sigg .

Apple of my Eye

2009-10-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

Fall evokes something deep within the soul - golden sun rays, dappled shadows, dark evenings, and cool, crisp mornings. For some of us, the time induces memories of trees changing color, harvests, and the sweet, smell of autumn. Whatever sensory perception you have of the season, it is sure to include apples.

The word apple comes from the Old English aeppel. It's been around since the Iron Age and was cultivated in Egypt. First brought to the United States by the Pilgrims in 1620's, apple trees can live hundreds of years - they are true kindred spirits of the season.

In tribute, Miss Melanie's 1st/2nd grade class embarked on a field trip to Julian to hand select some tasty specimens. The children enjoyed picking at RavenHill orchard, pressing fresh cider, and picnicking under a canopy of trees on Miss Melanie’s organic farm. Although temperatures were in the 90's and the Santa Ana's were blowing - it was a perfect autumn day - you could almost smell the fresh baked apple pie.

Strength of Spirit

2009-10-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

"Through celebrations in their seasons are the deeper powers of human nature realized." -Rudolf Steiner

In my mind, the settling into the school year is marked by the celebration of Michaelmas.
Deemed the festival of strength, bravery and courage, the grades children partake in a short play depicting St. George's slaying of the venomous beast. After “taming” the dragon with hand crafted wooden swords, the children share bread baked in form of the beast himself - traditional dragon bread. Feats calling for the said characteristics are also played including a competitive game of tug of war. In summation, Michaelmas beckons us to find the spirit to come alive through the dying year.

However, if you wish to dig a little deeper and find the parallel between "Michaelmas" and "St. George slaying a dragon" please check out the following link from A Journey Through Waldorf Homeschooling.

Our Little Sunflowers

2009-09-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

"There is a garden in every childhood,
an enchanted place where colors are brighter, the air softer,
and the morning more fragrant than ever again." - Elizabeth Lawrence

On the first day of school each year, we hold a Flower Ceremony. As a rite of passage, the whole school joins together in welcoming the 1st graders, as they journey across the Rainbow Bridge to greet their new, 1st Grade teacher with a handshake and receive a flower from a 2nd Grader.

Ms. Melanie welcomed 11 new students this year into her mixed 1st/2nd Grade class. Settled under the shady canopy of a large tree in dappled morning light, the children listened to a fairy tale of strength and courage, concluding their journey with a walk through the “arches of love” into their classroom.

Behold the look of anticipation and excitement in their eyes....

Time to Say Goodbye

2009-06-26T15:13:00.000-07:00

The end of each school year evokes a plethora of emotions - from a touch of melancholy, stemming from the passing of time, to anxiousness, as we anticipate future change.

Our school embraces this transitional time with its' annual Sundowner Gathering. Heading to Moonlight Beach on the last Friday of the school year, we partake in the merriment of our comrades under the canopy of the summer evening sky. Families picnic, children play & adults chatter. The event marks a beautiful finale to another wonderful year. For they are all wonderful aren't they...each in their own special way?

So the chapter closes & we bid adieu until we open the book again next fall.
Happy summer.

Cottonwood's Crawdads

2009-06-26T13:01:00.000-07:00

Sanderling’s Sander-Scouts ( aka ADVENTURE CLUB ) are at it again! This month’s jaunt - fishing for crawdads at Cotton wood Creek park.

According to mom, Leslie Rucker, “deep in the tall reeds is a hidden swamp with hundreds of crawdads! These little guys were biting the turkey and salami bits hanging from our bamboo fishing poles! It was a magical misty day! :) “

The Sander-Scouts have adjourned for the summer – be on the look out next fall for upcoming outings!

Frogs, Fish & Snakes...Oh My!

2009-06-15T10:45:00.000-07:00

Ms. Melanie's first grade boys enjoyed an end-of-the-year field trip to Quail Botanical Gardens. Mom, Lindsy Richards, escorted the "true blue boys" to an afternoon filled with frolicking in ponds and catching snakes - the flora and fauna were admired as well!

Quail opened the new Hamilton Children's Garden on June 13th providing an expanded environment for children and families to explore their natural world. Check out Quail Botanical Gardens for more information.

I Have Found a Golden Goose

2009-06-15T10:28:00.000-07:00

As a final adieu to their beloved playmates, the students of Nursery/Kindergarten, who will be fledging into first grade next year, hosted a puppet show.

The Golden Goose was performed with a full cast of hand crafted puppets. Simpleton, his two brothers, a little gray man, a king, a princess, and let’s not forget the story’s namesake – the golden goose - were among the characters brought to life amid soft light and lyrical voices.

The Brothers Grimm would have been proud of this adaptation of their classic fairy tale. If you would like to relive the moment, check out The Golden Goose for a paper copy.

Hammertime

2009-06-01T11:52:00.001-07:00

One of the unique aspects of our curriculum is that it reaches students on more than one level. These levels are often summarized as “head, heart, and hands” and “thinking, willing, and feeling.” A carefully integrated, rich and developmentally appropriate curriculum leads to growth in seemingly unrelated areas of life.

The inclusion of woodworking is a prime example. Woodworking encourages students to reach deep within themselves for unused and undiscovered skills and capacities. These new capacities are then available for other aspects of life.

Complex thinking, visualization skills, patience and feeling a part of a “society” all come together during this exercise. Each week, Lisa Pool leads “next year’s 1st-graders” in a project. We’ve seen fairy boxes, stomping blocks and even custom tool boxes emerge from their “wood shop.”

Making a Difference.

2009-05-27T11:13:00.001-07:00

I can no other answer make, but, thanks, and thanks. ~William Shakespeare

Sanderling School’s 2009 Silent Auction was a success - $15,000 was raised to support school programs! Under the canopy of a beautiful, southern California evening, the school yard was transformed into a casual enclave where twinkle lights sparkled in the trees; soft music tickled ears; tasty treats flavored palettes; and amazing items tempted eyes. A magical evening…not only for the event itself; but, the reaffirmation of the strength and commitment of our community.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated items, time & effort to create and support this event. You truly did a wonderful thing. You, by way of your generosity, have made a difference in our children’s lives.

" Come Join Me...Come Join Me, Please..."

2009-05-07T14:52:00.000-07:00

Spring was officially welcomed on Saturday, May 2nd at our beloved May Faire festival.

Traditionally, this festival marks what is considered the first day of summer in Celtic lands, and also is connected to the Roman Flora, the goddess of spring. There are select places in the world where young maidens rise early on May Day (May 1st) and wash their faces in the morning dew. Thus, ensuring a beautiful complexion for the rest of the year!

Our children celebrated with festivities of a different kind. The traditional May Pole, with colorful ribbons hanging, provided the means for skipping, dancing and singing - while, flower crowns adorned sun-kissed heads and bell & ribbon bracelets created a sound with every step.

Embry Rucker captured a beautiful story of the day. Please check out the following URL
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sanderlingwaldorf/. Thanks Embry for the amazing photos!

Spring is in the Air.

2009-04-05T18:19:00.000-07:00

Miss Megumi’s Nursery/Kindergarten class adjourned for spring break on Friday, April 3rd. Anticipation of holidays to be shared & travels to be embarked upon filled the children’s chatter. One common thread united them all, each child headed into spring with a hand-made stoneware pot filled with seeding “Easter grass” – a symbol of the season’s emerging life. Multi-talented mom, Deanna Gunn led the children in the tactile craft of creating pinch pots, which then were fired and filled with dirt and wheat berry seeds. Happy Spring!

New "Digs" for the Nursery/Kindergarten!

2009-03-23T15:43:00.000-07:00

The nursery/kindergarten play yard welcomed a new sand area last week. Installation was enjoyed by a gathering of onlookers eager to participate! No sand hill to small to scale & no log to awkward to carry…Lisa Pool, Lisa Hochman, Chuck El-Ghoury, Maxine Garcia & “Grandpa Garcia” were the envy of the post-school crowd as the benefactors oversaw the construction of their new space. A heartfelt thank you to the construction crew!

Adventure Club

2009-03-05T20:34:00.000-08:00

Inspired by 2008 Audubon Medal recipient, Richard Louv, several Sanderling families created ADVENTURE CLUB. Meeting on Saturday mornings at various locations county-wide, the club’s mission is to combat Louv’s “nature-deficit disorder” - a newly coined phenomenon centering on the disconnection between children and nature. With modern children spending less time outdoors, Louv claims behavioral problems are sure to follow. So if you’re interested in combating fears of nature and the lure of the screen, check out ADVENTURE CLUB on Saturdays…it looks like a great time for all, as witnessed in last week’s snaps from the San Elijo Lagoon.

For more information on ADVENTURE CLUB contact Lindsy Richards at lindsyrichards //@// mac.com...and if time permits, check out Richard Louv’s Last Child in the Woods hailed by the Boston Globe as “an absolute must-read.”

St. Michael slays Dragon!

2008-10-07T14:38:00.001-07:00

The 2nd/3rd graders gave a stellar performance of St Michael and the Dragon. It is a story of bravery for the children to take into their hearts as we descend upon the darkness of winter.

Strength and Courage!

2008-10-07T14:12:00.000-07:00

The St. Michaelmas celebration was an afternoon of fun and games that challenged the strength and courage in all of us!

Beach Clean Up Day

2008-10-07T11:46:00.000-07:00

Our lovely Ms. Jenn organized a family day of picking up trash at Dog Beach in Del Mar. I believe we collected 200lbs of garbage. Most of it consisted of plastics, go figure.

At Sanderling we do not have any plastics in the classrooms, all materials used are natural and non toxic. Waldorf Schools are inherently eco in so many ways; far ahead of the curve in this respect.

FYI: Magical Child and Environgentle in Encinitas carry really nice glass containers with lids and Klean Kanteens!

Environmentalism 101

2008-10-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

Dad setting the example of how to care for Mother Earth

Jasper doing his part

2008-10-07T11:36:00.000-07:00

Rose Ceremony

2008-09-24T18:52:00.000-07:00

The Rose Ceremony is a right of passage for the first graders. Families from the whole school gather to witness the former first graders give a rose to each of the new students. It is a 'passing of the torch' and a symbol of readiness/openness for the journey into the world of academics.

After receiving the rose they crossed over the balance beam to shake hands with their new teacher, Ms. Melanie. Then after her beautiful story about a butterfly, the families formed an archway that twisted and turned all the way to the classroom door. Ms. Melanie and her new students walked through the passage and into their first day of the first grade.

Arches of love to the first graders

2008-09-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

Jack and the Bean Stalk

2008-06-13T12:29:00.000-07:00

Since January, Ms. Megumi and the children have been making Marionettes for a Jack and the Bean Stalk puppet show. Every Tuesday they gathered after school to hand sew puppets and choreograph the show. We have been anxiously waiting to see the results because they kept it all under wraps from us parents.

Today we finally saw the performance, and it was amazing! I can't believe what they created. The puppets and the kids were magnificent!

How fortunate they are to have such an experience. Thank you Megumi, you are saint!

Sun Downer

2008-06-08T15:39:00.000-07:00

It is tradition for the families of Sanderling to gather at Moonlight Beach for an evening picnic the last week of school. Another school year comes to an end; where does the time go?

Drift Wood Ships

2008-06-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

This was our final wood shop project of the year. I like this one because it's so easy and eco! Surprisingly it wasn't so easy finding seven flat/wide pieces of drift wood. (I think I went to most the beaches in Encinitas.)

The children made a hole for the mast with a hand drill then sawed the dowels. They punched holes in the sail cloth and threaded the dowels through. Viola! A new toy for the bath tub!

Wood Shop

2008-05-19T19:45:00.000-07:00

This week we made walking blocks out of redwood and rope. The kids sanded the blocks and waxed them. Then they cut the rope, threaded it through the holes, and tied double knots.

They get such a kick out of clomping around on these things, and I get a kick out of seeing them feel so proud of their work.

The importance of hand work is a hallmark of Waldorf Education. Dexterous hands make productive and artistic humans. Learning a craft such as wood working can open up creative possibilities of all kinds.

May Faire 08

2008-05-06T21:15:00.000-07:00

The May Faire is my most beloved Waldorf festival of the year. It is like stepping back in time for a day. Families gather around the May Pole to watch each class perform a song and dance. It is a living Norman Rockwell painting! The pure innocence and beauty of it all makes me weep every time.

Crowns of Knitted Yarn and Flowers

2008-05-06T20:59:00.000-07:00

May Fairy

2008-05-06T20:54:00.000-07:00

Hair braiding, Fishing, Panning for Treasures, and Face Painting at May Faire

2008-05-06T20:38:00.000-07:00

Watching the children enjoy traditional faire activities reminds me how it is the simple things that they love and need most. This is what memories are made of.

It Takes a Village

2008-04-06T16:54:00.000-07:00

It is bitter-sweet to witness our children exit the dreamy first stage of life. Their little bodies are showing the signs of academic readiness everyday. The loss of teeth, learning to skip, catching with right and left hands, and faces becoming more defined, are just a few of the physical indicators that they are ready.

As we usher them into the next phase we say farewell to the most precious and impressionable years of their lives.

We are a few Mothers of the First Grade 08/09 class.

Ms. Melanie and Friends

2008-04-06T15:06:00.000-07:00

Waldorf teachers stay with their class of students from the 1st grade through the 8th grade! They are so deeply invested in each child, they practically become a third parent.

Emerson

2008-04-03T21:58:00.000-07:00

"We are dedicated to nurturing children's capacity for imagination, thinking, active willing, and healthy social interactions. Because the effects of media, including television, movies, video games, and computers, are widely recognized to have debilitating effect on those capacities, we feel it is in the child's best interest that media exposure be eliminated from the daily experience of the young child."

Chalmers Hardenbergh

Play Date at San Dieguito Park

2008-04-03T21:54:00.000-07:00

Winding strings and other silly things

2008-03-27T17:39:00.000-07:00

For Raven's 6th birthday we wound and wrapped and wrapped and wound. These small movements with the hands are known to help condition the fine motor skills for writing. The kids didn't notice that they were actually practicing for writing - they were just having fun winding up spider webs of yarn and wrapping mummies large and small. A fine trait of the Waldorf aesthetic is to mask the "work" of children through their play. It's a fine laced web not seen by the children that the teachers educate through. This was an attempt to incorporate this idea into birthday party fun.

e&e taking pics!

2008-03-26T22:20:00.000-07:00

A tisket a tasket!

2008-03-20T22:03:00.000-07:00

There is so much beauty to be discovered inside a Waldorf Kindergarten classroom. The atmosphere is so warm and nurturing with all the surrounding natural colors and textures.

The teachers give so much love and attention to detail to their rooms, everything so neat and tidy.

"I saw a little dusty gnome. He said it's time to clean our home." Ms. Jennifer sings, when it's time for the children to tidy up.

Role Model

2008-03-19T23:18:00.000-07:00

Each week Ms. Jennifer invites a helper from the Rose Kindergarten to assist with the snack time in her Chickadee Parent-Tot-Class, while the parents have their parenting discussion in the room next door. This week was Emerson's turn to be the helper. I peaked out to catch a glimpse of him taking on his role of "lentil soup server" very seriously. At the same time, I overheard his younger brother, Tate, exclaiming proudly to his friends at the table "this is my brother, he's bigger than all of you".

Tug-o-War!

2008-03-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

"Not only are we part of a wonderful, creative, and imaginative school, we've also found a warm community of like-minded parents: who care not just about good academic standards but want their children to grow into happy, well adjusted adults with a life-long love of learning!"

Parent

The Tooth Fairy's first visit

2008-03-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

Raven lost his first tooth at school yesterday - his friend Emerson kindly offered to pull it out. He's been anticipating this event for quite sometime, as his friends have all started to lose their teeth as well. It is believed that the loss of teeth, amongst other physical and emotional changes in children from 5-7 years of age, is an indicator that children are ending a physical cycle which started in their mother's womb. This is a period of rapid physical growth that should be fostered with imaginary play and nurturing of the body through wholesome food, plenty of rest, and warmth. As Raven starts making his way into the next cycle of life, he is ready for an environment that requires more concentration and less physicalness. The Waldorf philosophy respects this development by introducing academics in the first grade.

Tavin and Cam build a "base"

2008-03-12T16:40:00.000-07:00

"Children over-scheduled with structured activities are missing the chance they have to dream, to fantasize, to make their own work the way the want it. That, to me is a very important part of childhood"

Dr. T Berry Brazelton

2008-03-12T16:34:00.000-07:00

lunch time

2008-03-10T15:18:00.000-07:00

The children carry their lunches in baskets with cloth napkins. Parents are urged to pack healthy and whole foods in reusable containers. Lunch scraps are taken out back to the compost pile.

Growing grass for easter baskets

2008-03-10T15:08:00.000-07:00

Through seasonal festivals, stories, plays, and nature table scenes the children learn the rhythm of the earth. Instilling a deep connection to the natural world creates a deep respect for Mother Earth.

"...the seeds of reverence and gratitude are being sown."

Freya Jaffke

Birthday celebrations

2008-03-09T21:08:00.000-07:00

"We wish you a Happy Birthday

A joyous and celebrated Birthday

To our dear Camden

May he have a joy filled life".

-Waldorf Birthday song

Toothless Tavi loves his sister!

2008-03-06T20:28:00.000-08:00

I had hoped that the boys would love having a baby sister, but never expected such adoration. Tavin cannot keep his hands off her and she revels in the attention. I have to attribute something to the fact that he has so many younger girls in his class. He will make a wonderful husband and father some day:)

Jasper's new BFF

2008-02-06T14:21:00.000-08:00

A visit to Julian when it snows keeps our family connected to the seasons. It also fosters endless laughter and somewhat temporary friendships.