WLR varies/rotates the schedule based on available resources and interests of our participating families.
Classes marked with * are offered in the current/upcoming session: 2019 Winter-Spring. Check the Schedules page for the days/times these classes are offered.
Eurythmy Eurythmy is an art of movement that supports a holistic approach to education. In particular, it functions to promote mind-body integration, via imaginative story enactment and movement-play. It does this specifically through the performance of movement-gestures that correspond to the sounds of speech and musical tones. In eurythmy, one performs the language of a story, poem, or song by enacting specific movement-gestures that correspond to the sounds one hears in the spoken word and/or to the tones one hears in the music that is played. In turn, this supports a holistic approach to other aspects of language development, including reading and writing.
Eurythmy helps to support the overall health of the child. It also encourages stability in thinking and graceful motor coordination. In this way, eurythmy augments and deepens a holistic approach to education.
Folk Dancing Students experience the fun of moving to music through learning, singing and movement games as well as simple folk dances from different cultures.
Math & Movement There is a deep connection between moving our bodies and mathematical thinking. Using movement to learn math is not only fun, but also an effective pedagogical tool. Through hands-on activities, games, movement and social interaction, students will learn math facts of the four processes (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) along with simple concepts from geometry, pattern recognition, and sequencing.
Movement & Form Drawing Form Drawing helps a child grow into a well-rounded human being. Form Drawing introduces the young child to the idea that all shapes and all drawing in the world are derived from two types of lines: straight and curved, or a combination of the two. Students will draw and move free-hand linear forms in rhythmic repetition and practice simple linear patterns and designs. Form Drawing helps improve hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and aids in the development of handwriting in addition to promoting sensory integration. The movement portion of this class will focus on healthy gross motor skills that facilitate sensory integration and optimization of children's learning capacities.
When introducing forms, students may walk the form initially, using the entire body; then draw the form in the air with large arm movements. Alternatively, the teacher may use a simple story to engage the students’ imagination to help them discover the essence of the form. For instance, the class might move in a flowing, serpentine, running river-like form. The children experience the different qualities in a playful, imaginative manner and then draw the forms on paper.
Form Drawing supports at least six areas of education: mathematics (geometry, ratios, fractions); physical education (movement, concentration); humanities/history (forms from various cultures in history); science (patterns from nature, observation skills); moral life/character development (by observing difference between ideas such as “upright” and “bent”, etc. – such gesture-meanings originate in the language of the form and help shape the ethical stature of the child); and arts & crafts (many of the forms, patterns, motifs are articulated in handwork, woodwork, metalwork and more).
Physical Movement & Games Cooperative games are a fun way for children to interact and get exercise. These activities cultivate the children’s capacities in many areas, including: sensory-motor learning, musical comprehension, balance and coordination. Games class incorporates physical education/movement activities with cooperative learning, helping to develop social skills while having fun. Games is a WLR favorite. Highly recommended.
Yoga Students will build strength, flexibility, coordination and focus through basic yoga postures, breathing and guided visualization, games, songs and stories. Yoga helps children develop self-confidence and body awareness that can be useful in everyday life. Mindful practice also gently encourages self-respect and respect for others. Please note: Students should bring a yoga mat and dress comfortably for class. Class will include use of pure, therapeutic grade essential oils.
Yoga for Parents & Teens* Sandi Russi, WLR Program Director, is a certified Ananda Yoga Instructor and E-RYT (experienced registered yoga teacher). She has been teaching yoga for over 17 years and is the owner of East Sac Yoga which offers classes at 2 convenient locations. All homeschooling parents and teens can enjoy her regular classes at a 10% discount.