Frequently Asked Questions

  • A: Waldorf Early Childhood Education is an educational approach that emphasizes holistic development, creativity, and hands-on learning for young children. It focuses on nurturing children's imagination, emotional intelligence, and physical well-being.

    Our curriculum is often built around the seasons, what is occurring outside the classroom in nature, and is based on the children’s ever-changing interests and experiences. Because we spend a lot of time outside, the children often become interested and aware of the trees, the changing weather, and the insects and living things that inhabit our world. 

    There is also a strong emphasis on the arts and creating daily rhythms as part of a child's development. This rhythm typically includes a blend of  artistic  and practical activities throughout the day. For example, students may start their morning with purposeful morning play and circle time , followed by free play in and outside the classroom and nutritious communal meals. This predictable daily rhythm is designed to support the students' physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being.

    Waldorf schools place a significant emphasis on artistic expression as a means of fostering creativity and imagination. This is done through activities such as painting, drawing, and handcrafting with materials like yarn. From the moment you step into the classroom, you will notice there is often music, song and movement embedded through every part of the day. The goal is to provide a well-rounded education that nurtures not only the mind but also the creative spirit within each child.

  • A: The Waldorf philosophy has key components that make it special and unique.

    Creativity: We foster creativity in a variety of ways such as storytelling, cooking, art, and with a huge focus on imaginative play. Here, children are given the space to express themselves creatively, move freely about the room, and discover .

    Emphasis on Nature and Natural Materials: Waldorf Education often incorporates a strong connection to nature. Outdoor activities, nature walks, and gardening are commonly integrated into the curriculum to foster a sense of appreciation for the natural world. We spent a lot of time in the community garden and outdoors exploring the nature in the world around us. In New York City, this is especially so valuable. 

    At New Amsterdam School, we place a strong emphasis on open ended and natural materials such as wooden blocks, nature, and play silks. Musical instruments, puppets, and nature are also integral to the Waldorf play environment. These intentionally chosen toys, crafted from these materials, inspire children's creativity, cultivate sensory experiences, and promote a holistic connection to their surroundings.

    Focus on the whole child: Waldorf Education strives to develop children's cognitive, emotional, social, and physical capacities in a balanced manner. Lessons are meant to be engaging, experiential, and relevant to a child's developmental stage. Children are strongly encouraged to engage in hands-on learning and are involved in the learning process.

    Most importantly, we believe that children should learn at their own pace, experience joy and wonder everyday. In our modern world and very face-paced environment, children are often pushed to “hurry up or fall behind” has become the norm. At New Amsterdam School, we want children to feel confident, safe, and free to be themselves.

  • A: While arts do play a significant role in Waldorf Education, academic subjects are introduced through stories, song and play. Children learn when they do what they love- play! The emphasis on arts in early childhood is intended to foster creativity and cognitive development. While formal academics are introduced gradually, Waldorf Education focuses on building a strong foundation through experiential learning, imaginative play, and creative activities. This holistic approach can actually enhance a child's readiness for later academic challenges. Children are encouraged to learn at their own pace and engage with subjects that align with their readiness. 

    Waldorf Education recognizes that children are not just academic beings that need to know ABC’s and math but they are also emotional, social, and creative individuals. The curriculum is designed to address the whole child's development. Our focus is on depth of understanding and critical thinking rather than rote memorization.

  • A: The beauty of education is that it is constantly evolving and growing. While we adhere to the principles of Waldorf Education, our teachers  bring a wealth of experience from various educational philosophies, including Reggio Emilia and Montessori. Additionally, many educators in our classrooms are talented artists and musicians who integrate  their talents into the learning experience.

  • A:  Waldorf schools do not include technology in the early years, emphasizing hands-on, sensory experiences. Learning is done by exploring the world around us, nature walks, and experiencing it all hands on. While technology and formal academic learning are important considerations, Waldorf Education aims to equip children with adaptable skills such as creativity, cooperation, empathy, and critical thinking. These skills are highly valued in a rapidly changing world and can contribute to future success in various fields.

  • A: While Waldorf Philosophy was founded on Christian roots, New Amsterdam School is non-denominational. We welcome a variety of religious and cultural backgrounds .The emphasis is on ethical values, respect for diversity, and fostering a sense of wonder and interconnectedness with the world around us. This approach allows students to explore their own beliefs while also appreciating and celebrating the beliefs of others.

  • As a proud member of WECAN Diversity Agreement, we stand by their statement to acknowledge the value of inclusivity and diversity. At New Amsterdam, we understand that the world is changing and as are our much our minds and the world of education. Especially in such a diverse city, it is crucial to us that we help children see, understand, and appreciate the world around them. Our classrooms are filled with materials and books that honor and celebrate diversity and the world we live in.

    Our faculty and staff work with DEI educators and invest in professional training to ensure that we are constantly evolving, accountable, and building business practices that support anti-racism.

  • A: Waldorf schools emphasize community engagement and interaction with the world beyond the classroom. We are so fortunate to partner with El Jardin del Paraiso, be located next to Tompkins Square Park and a variety of businesses. Field trips, nature experiences, and community service projects are part of the curriculum. In the past, we have visited restaurants and cooked in the kitchen at C & B!

  • A: At New Amsterdam School, fostering a vibrant sense of community among parents, children, and staff is of most importance to us. We believe events should be both accessible and inclusive, creating opportunities for meaningful connections. Community service and including the people in our area are so valuable. . Throughout the year, we extend invitations to our families to participate in various activities such as [provide link list of events]. Having a strong community is the pillar in providing wonderful educational experience.

    Our parent community plays an active role, with an open invitation to engage in classroom activities. Parents are welcome to join in reading stories or to share a piece of their culture, whether through a book or by preparing a family recipe. Our doors are always open for families to be part of our enriching journey. Beyond the classroom, we organize events for adults, including Parents Night Out and an array of engaging workshops, offering numerous opportunities for families to actively engage and participate.

    Together, we cherish the value of building connections that extend beyond the classroom walls, nurturing a holistic educational environment for our students. We truly value connection, collaboration, and feedback from our families!

  • A: We take great pride in being able to provide smaller sized classes allowing for one on one and individualized support for the children. While we follow the Department of Education requirements, we prefer to keep class sizes on the smaller side when possible, to allow for more one on one and individualized support.

  • A: Whether you decide to continue on to our wonderful outdoor Kindergarten, or you move to another private or public school option, we are here to support you. We are here as a guide to help you fill out ISAAGNY reports, offer information on various schools, and answer any questions you may have along the way.

    Our Educational and Enrollment Director has relationships with schools and is available to guide you through the transition process. Once graduating from New Amsterdam School, many of our children continue on to Rudolf Steiner School, Corlears, or various private schools!

  • A:  We provide healthy and organic meals daily provided by our wonderful Chef! There is no need to bring outside meals as everything is prepared fresh. A monthly menu is created and changes throughout the year.  If there are any allergies or specific dietary restrictions, we work closely with the family to accommodate. 

  • A: It is most  important to us that you and your child feel supported at New Amsterdam. While we do not have in-house specialists, we have relationships and access to information regarding Occupational Therapy,  Speech Therapy,  and a variety of other services. 

    We also believe in providing each child with at they need. Our Educational and Enrollment Director is available as a resource providing support for children in the classroom as well a guide for families. For questions, you can email her at Ilana.cookler@newamsterdamchildhood.org.

  • A: We believe that schools should be accessible to all families. We offer tuition assistance. Further information can be found on our website, click here for more details.

  • Depending on the class, we provide a range of options, recognizing that every family has different needs and schedules. Options include half-day, full-day, and two-to-three-day schedules. Pre-K and Kindergarten classes offer full-day options until 3:15, with the flexibility of early dismissal. Additionally, we offer early morning drop-off from 8:00 to 8:30.

    For local students aged 3-6, we offer additional aftercare from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday. This aftercare program is open not only to our school community but also to those interested from the broader community seeking a separate program for their child.

  • A: For information on enrollment and admissions, contact Ilana: ilana.cookler@newamsterdamchildhood.org

    For all other inquiries, call our direct line at (212)-533-1820 or contact Jeannie Jeannie.mcgartland@newamsterdamchildhood.org