Rigorous Academics, Gentle Instruction
At Mossy Puddle, we blend the creativity and rhythm of Waldorf education with the proven benefits of early academics. While traditional Waldorf schools delay formal instruction, research supports early exposure to phonics and number sense for long-term success. To honor both approaches, we offer gentle, consistent literacy and math instruction, which combined lasts less than 5 minutes, during daily circle time. This balanced method builds strong academic foundations within a joyful, play-based environment rooted in storytelling, movement, and artistic exploration.
Academics are taught at Mossy Puddle by experienced, passionate educators.
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At Mossy Puddle, outdoor play is central to sensory learning. Children dig in the mud, splash at the water pump, balance on logs, and explore natural textures—all while building coordination, regulation, and confidence. Nature offers endless sensory experiences that help children grow through movement, curiosity, and hands-on discovery.
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We use elements from Jolly Phonics and Logic of English—both grounded in the Orton-Gillingham approach—to introduce each letter’s name and sound. Focusing on one letter per week, children learn the ABCs through songs, stories, and hands-on activities. Once the full alphabet has been introduced, we revisit the cycle to deepen understanding and strengthen phonemic awareness in a playful, developmentally appropriate way.
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At Mossy Puddle, we teach number sense through playful, hands-on activities. Children count while playing hopscotch, add and take away pretend food, and explore numbers with ten frames. These simple games help kids understand how numbers work and build a strong, confident foundation for future math learning.
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At Mossy Puddle, we support emotional regulation by helping children recognize, name, and express their feelings in a safe, supportive environment. We use gentle routines, cozy spaces, and sensory tools to create a calm atmosphere where big emotions are met with patience and care.
To encourage conversation and build emotional literacy, we use eeBoo’s I Heard Your Feelings cards—inviting children to reflect on real-life situations and talk about how others might feel. These simple, thoughtful prompts help children develop empathy, communication skills, and confidence in expressing their own emotions.