By blending imagination with intellectual rigor, artistic exploration, and a profound relationship with nature, Waldorf inspires confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning—ensuring that every child feels seen, capable, and eager to discover the world.

In the first five grades, learning is an extraordinary adventure. Stories bring history to life, math is explored through movement and rhythm, and science unfolds through hands-on discovery in nature. Students engage in a diverse range of subjects—including music, painting, woodworking, foreign languages, and practical arts—ensuring a well-rounded and deeply enriching education.

Four elementary school students walk among towering trees at Waldorf School of Baltimore

Curriculum At A Glance

We view curriculum as everything that happens during our time together with the children. We believe that each experience is an opportunity to grow, build relationships and foster a thriving community that nurtures children, teachers, and families.

First Grade

The first grade curriculum is designed to spark a child's imagination and love for learning. Language Arts introduces consonants, vowels, sight words, and word families, brought to life through fairy tales, fables, and nature stories. Students compose and read their own short verses, fostering creativity and literacy.

Math is explored through the magic of numbers—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—all with a hands-on, joyful approach. Science is integrated through nature stories and woodland exploration deepening students' connection to the world around them.

First graders begin learning Spanish through songs, poems, and games. Movement is a priority, with rhythmic morning circles, cooperative games, and eurythmy, developing coordination, spatial awareness, and a sense of community.

Creativity flourishes through watercolor painting, pentatonic recorder playing, knitting, drawing, and beeswax modeling, while the class play at the end of the year brings stories to life, blending movement, language, and imagination.

Through a curriculum that engages the head, heart, and hands, first grade is a time of joyful discovery and learning.

Second Grade

Second graders continue to strengthen the skills introduced in first grade, and by the time they are ready for third grade, they will have a remarkable level of mastery of core academic skills.

Eight-year-olds have a tendency to see the world in extremes. They start to recognize opposites—kindness and selfishness, patience and impulsiveness, humility and arrogance—and through stories, lessons, and daily experiences, they explore how their choices shape who they are becoming. Animal Fables and cultural tales provide often humorous extremes of positive or negative human traits.

Legends and Biographys of people from around the world who have sacrificed for the common good show the amazing things of which humans are capable.

The second grade Math curriculum builds students' comprehension of the four basic math processes. Second graders begin to work on place value, mental arithmetic, and word problems to sharpen their computational abilities. At this age, learning is still deeply connected to movement, rhythm, and imagination. Clapping and movement games are used to reinforce memorization of math facts that are important to know as math becomes more abstract.

Language arts build on the foundation of first grade, helping students strengthen their reading skills, expand their sight words, and begin to write with more independence.

Third Grade

In third grade, the curriculum broadens the child’s view of the world as they begin to develop a deeper sense of individuality. Around the age of 9, students become more aware of themselves as unique individuals and often begin to think of their future, wondering what it is like to live on their own; lessons have a strong practical orientation designed to support their growing self-awareness with reassurance and confidence.

Each morning the children work through exercises in recitation, singing, movement, and other rhythmic activities as a way of entering into the work of the day.

In math, third graders work with time, money, and measurement. Arithmetic work includes the four processes, which segues into carrying and borrowing along with long division and multiplication.

In literature and history, stories of the embarking on one’s own are shared. Hebrew and Indigenous stories, centered around creation, house-building, and farming, offer valuable moral lessons and help students connect with timeless themes of human life. These stories also guide the children in understanding their place in the world, reinforcing that they are not alone in their experiences.

Language Arts focuses on grammar, spelling, and introduces cursive writing, helping students refine their independent writing skills.

Math includes carrying and borrowing, long division, and an exploration of number patterns, measurement, and time. These concepts are brought to life through practical applications, such a cooking and building structures, supporting the children’s developing relationship with the outer world.

The year is enriched by the children’s role as caretakers of the community chickens and their hands-on gardening experiences. These lessons are part of a robust curriculum that nurtures their growing sense of responsibility, independence, and connection to both the human and natural world.

A cornerstone moment of the year is the class trip to Hawthorn Valley, where students live and work on a biodynamic farm for four nights, deepening their understanding of stewardship and sustainable living.

Fourth Grade

Fourth grade at the Waldorf School of Baltimore is a transformative year where students begin to truly ground themselves in the world around them, exploring who they are and where they belong. As children enter this new phase of self-awareness, their questions deepen: Who am I? Where am I?

The curriculum is carefully crafted to answer these questions, starting with local Geography, where they map out their classroom, school, and neighborhood, grounding them with a deep understanding of their place in time and space.

In Math, the work starts with a solid review of basic arithmetic—multiplication, division, addition, subtraction, and measurement—before transitioning to the complexities of fractions. As the students learn to break numbers into parts, they begin to apply this concept in practical ways, gaining the skills to manipulate fractions with precision and confidence.

Language Arts in fourth grade unfolds through captivating stories, with the students diving into diverse myths from Maryland's Indigenous Peoples as well as the rich and fiery tales of the Norse gods and goddesses. These stories speak to the child's growing sense of self, with themes of courage, sacrifice, and moral conflict reflecting their own inner struggles as they navigate the complex emotions of middle childhood. The contrast of fire and ice in the Norse creation myth mirrors the extremes they encounter in their own lives, teaching them to seek balance and harmony in their personal development.

The Science block, “Man and Animal,” reveals the fascinating ways animals adapt to their environments, and the students relate these adaptations to the uniqueness of the human being. In studying the specialized skills and behaviors of animals, they gain a deeper understanding of the wonders of nature and the human connection to it.

A class camping trip to St. Mary's County and other historical sites in the region teach students about their own place in their community and the broader world.

Fifth Grade

Fifth grade at the Waldorf School of Baltimore is a year of deep exploration and discovery, where students begin to step into the larger world of history, culture, and self-reflection. Students in fifth grade become aware that humans shape history, and that historical events change human culture.

As they stand on the cusp of adolescence, they are increasingly aware of the questions that shape the human experience:

How did we get here?

What is the purpose of life?

How should we live with honor?

Their journey begins with the study of ancient civilizations—India, Persia, Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece—where they learn not just about the rise and fall of empires, but also about the creation of written languages, the beauty of ancient poetry, and the wonders of monumental architecture. They engage with hieroglyphics, create models of temples and pyramids, and immerse themselves in the art of these ancient cultures, incorporating what they learn into their own artistic endeavors.

In Language Arts, grammar lessons blend seamlessly into the study of history, with verb tenses introduced through the writing of compositions. Students continue to develop their writing skills, exploring the expressive potential of language as they engage with the rich literary traditions of the ancient world.

Meanwhile, geography takes a turn closer to home, with an in-depth study of American Geography. Students explore the diverse landscapes and the relationships between people and the land across the regions, providing a solid foundation for understanding the world’s interconnectedness. This geographical journey is complemented by a botany block, where students observe the life cycles of plants, exploring how they respond to the earth and sun, and how they change throughout the year.

In Math, the fifth graders solidify their understanding of fractions while advancing to complex concepts like mixed numbers, decimals, and geometric drawing. These lessons help them hone their problem-solving abilities and see the interconnectedness of numbers in new and exciting ways.

The world language curriculum deepens as students study Spanish, practicing short dialogues and giving descriptive talks. Their growing linguistic skills enhance their global perspective and ability to express themselves with nuance.

The fine and practical Arts program flourishes as students experiment with clay modeling, carving, knitting socks, drawing geometric shapes, and painting with watercolors. Each artistic pursuit helps them express their growing individuality and sense of beauty.

In Physical Education, the children participate in eurythmy and a pentathlon, engaging their bodies in movement that complements their academic growth. New opportunities open up as fifth graders can now join after-school sports programs, competing against other K-8 private schools in basketball, soccer, and track and field.

In Music, choir skills improve as students refine their vocal techniques and performance abilities. They deepen their practice with their chosen string instrument, whether violin or cello, as they continue to develop their musical proficiency.

The class play becomes an exciting highlight of the year, taking on more dynamic characters and showcasing the students’ growing skills in performance and expression.

Fifth grade is a time of balance—of looking back and forward, of deepening their understanding of themselves and the world around them. As they stand at the threshold of adolescence, the fifth graders at Waldorf embark on a year of profound intellectual, emotional, and physical growth. It is a year of both reflection and anticipation, as they begin to explore the big questions of existence, solidifying their foundations for the years to come. A camping trip provides experiential learning on their study of astronomy, expanding their connection to the universe.

My time at the Waldorf School was memorable and magical. I have grown to appreciate all of the eccentric, explorative ways we were taught to intersect with the world around us. I made friendships there that I hope will last a lifetime. I’m grateful for all the teachers, who invested in me as a student.

– Jill, Class of 2013

A female elementary school student smiles while sitting at her desk at Waldorf School of Baltimore

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Subject Classes Grades 1 - 5

A Tapestry of Learning: The Power of Waldorf’s Integrated Approach

In Waldorf education, subjects are not taught in isolation but woven together like threads in a vibrant tapestry of learning. Academic disciplines seamlessly intertwine with artistic expression, movement, and hands-on experiences, creating a rich, cross-curricular approach that deepens understanding and nurtures a true appreciation for the interconnectedness of knowledge.

Here, every student is a painter, woodworker, singer, sculptor, naturalist, actor, fiber artist, and more. Subject classes are designed not just to teach skills but to cultivate essential capacities—curiosity, creativity, and confidence. Rather than specializing too soon or limiting themselves to what they believe they’re "good at," students are encouraged to explore boldly, create freely, and grow through every experience.

NATURE STUDIES

At Waldorf, we believe that connecting with the natural world is essential to nurturing both the mind and spirit. As a USDE Green Ribbon School, recognized with the highest national honor for earth stewardship and environmental education, we take pride in offering a curriculum that integrates sustainability and a deep respect for the environment. Through hands-on experiences in gardening, nature studies, and outdoor activities, students develop a profound appreciation for the rhythms of the earth, the cycle of life, and their vital role as stewards of the planet.

In our curriculum, students engage in planting the school’s gardens, where they grow food, flowers, and dye plants, learning not only about biology but also the importance of sustainability and local food systems. They also tap trees for syrup, discovering how to collect sap and turn it into syrup, which teaches them resourcefulness and an understanding of nature’s cycles. Through plant identification, students explore biodiversity, learning about ecosystems and the critical role of native species in maintaining balance within the environment.

These enriching experiences go far beyond scientific understanding—they foster patience, responsibility, and a sense of awe, while also building a profound connection to the earth. By integrating environmental education into every aspect of our curriculum, we inspire students to grow into compassionate, informed, and engaged citizens of the world.

A group of elementary school students walk through the verdant campus of Waldorf School of Baltimore

FIBER ARTS

Fiber Arts is a cornerstone of Waldorf education, offering far more than just the joy of creating beautiful objects. Through knitting, sewing, and other handwork projects, students develop fine motor skills, enhance focus, and strengthen mathematical thinking—all in a practical, hands-on way.

From knitting a scarf from fingertip to fingertip in first grade, to embroidering intricate designs in fifth grade, and ultimately crafting full garments in eighth grade, handwork builds both confidence and a deep sense of accomplishment. Each project is an opportunity for students to experience the satisfaction of mastering a skill, creating something both functional and beautiful.

In a world of passive consumption, Waldorf's time-honored crafts offer a powerful contrast. These activities encourage patience, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose, enriching a child’s daily life with meaning and a sense of pride in their work.

A female elementary school student knits in the fiber arts room at Waldorf School of Baltimore

ART AND WOODSHOP

Woodworking is a key part of the Waldorf curriculum, offering students the chance to transform raw, ethically sourced, wood into beautifully crafted objects. Through carving, sanding, and shaping, they develop patience, precision, and problem-solving skills.

Each project helps students build fine motor skills while fostering a sense of accomplishment as they bring their creative ideas to life. While all students follow the same project guidelines, every piece they create is unique, reflecting their individual creative process and personal touch.

By using only hand tools, students refine their carving abilities and sculptural skills, progressing to more complex designs as they move through the grades. The sense of pride and satisfaction students feel when completing their projects is profound, as they realize the beauty and uniqueness of what they’ve crafted with their own hands.

When not working with wood, other projects in this class include basket weaving, sculpting, sketching, painting, and more.

A female elementary school student carves a wooden spoon at Waldorf School of Baltimore

CLASS PLAYS/DRAMA

At Waldorf, every class brings a story to life through an annual play, transforming tales into vibrant performances that blend movement, memorization, and character work. These productions go far beyond traditional theater—they are immersive learning experiences that foster confidence, collaboration, and expressive communication. Theater engages students in a way that taps into their creativity and imagination, making it an invaluable part of their education.

Each performance serves as a powerful opportunity to explore and deepen the class curriculum. Whether it's reenacting a Norse myth in fourth grade, a Greek tragedy in fifth, or a fairy tale in first, drama at Waldorf nurtures poise, presence, and a lifelong love of storytelling. This unique blend of artistic expression and academic exploration cultivates not only creative skills but also a deeper understanding of the world.

Four students dressed in costumes for a play at Waldorf School of Baltimore

WORLD LANGUAGE: SPANISH

Language learning at Waldorf is immersive and dynamic, providing students with the opportunity to connect with a global community and develop an appreciation for diverse cultures. Students begin Spanish in grade one. Through interactive lessons, storytelling, songs, and games, students immerse themselves in the language, learning both vocabulary and conversational skills.

The program fosters a deep connection to the language, enabling students to think, feel, and express themselves in Spanish while also gaining an understanding of the cultural nuances associated with it.

A student studies in the library at Waldorf School of Baltimore

EURYTHMY

Eurythmy is a unique movement art practiced in Waldorf schools that brings language, music, and rhythm to life through gesture and form. It includes three key disciplines:

Speech Eurythmy: Gestures and movements corresponding to the sounds of spoken language.
Tone Eurythmy: Movements that align with the elements of a musical composition.
Copper Rod Exercises: Activities that help children develop balance, uprightness, and spatial awareness.

Eurythmy supports children's growth at various developmental stages, enhancing physical coordination, cognitive ability, and emotional expression. Through this practice, students learn to connect deeply with language, music, and the world around them, fostering creativity, balance, and a strong mind-body connection.

Through group movement exercises, students develop a sense of harmony, collaboration, and inner balance—skills that support their academic, artistic, and social growth.

A teacher leads students in a eurythmy performance wearing colorful silk tunics at Waldorf School of Baltimore

GAMES AND PHYS ED

At Waldorf, movement is key to development, blending physical activity, imagination, and social cooperation. Our Games/Physical Education program evolves from first through fifth grade, supporting both motor skills and emotional growth.

In first grade, students engage in circle games, hand-clapping, tag, and obstacle courses, building spatial awareness, rhythm, and teamwork. Second and third grades introduce call-and-response games to enhance concentration, independence, and motor skills. In fourth grade, circus arts like unicycling, juggling, and gymnastics challenge students’ physical limits while fostering confidence and resilience.

In fifth grade, students refine technique and grace through the Pentathlon—javelin, discus, and long jump—while continuing to develop skills in team games.

This program cultivates confidence, creativity, and joy in movement, empowering students to embrace challenges with balance and unity.

A circle of students stretch during a PE class at Waldorf School of Baltimore

CHORAL/INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

In the sculptural and pictorial realm, we look at beauty, and we live it; in the musical realm we ourselves become beauty.
– Rudolf Steiner

At Waldorf, music is everywhere—it infuses every part of the school day, from singing in the classroom to rhythm in movement and storytelling. It’s an essential thread that brings lessons to life and enriches each subject. But music is not just an undercurrent; it also stands as its own dedicated subject, with focused instruction and time carved out for deeper exploration.

From the early grades, students are immersed in music as a vibrant, living presence. With songs that mirror the seasons, festivals, and classroom themes, music becomes a natural extension of their learning. In first through third grades, they begin their musical journey with glockenspiels, learning rhythm, melody, and harmony, all while connecting their musical experience to the broader lessons of the day. Singing in rounds fosters a sense of community, teaching students the beauty of shared expression and collaboration.

By fourth grade, the music curriculum deepens as students take on string instruments—either cello or violin—while continuing to nurture their vocal skills. This dual approach allows them to explore music both individually and as part of an ensemble, honing creativity, discipline, and teamwork. Whether they are performing songs that honor history, celebrate nature, or express personal growth, music at Waldorf serves as a powerful, transformative experience, connecting students to the world around them while helping them build both musical skills and a harmonious relationship with others.

Students play wooden pentatonic flutes at Waldorf School of Baltimore

RECESS

Yup, that’s right—we’re calling recess a subject class because it’s just as vital to a child’s holistic education as any other period in the day. At Waldorf, outdoor play isn’t just a break—it’s an essential time for children to recharge, develop social skills, and foster a deep connection with nature.

Twice a day, every day, no matter the weather, students are encouraged to step outside and engage in imaginative play, cooperative games, or simply explore the natural world around them. Whether rain or shine, this time nurtures physical fitness, creativity, and resilience, providing children with the balance they need to return to their studies refreshed and ready to learn.

Recess is an integral part of the Waldorf experience—where the heart, mind, and body are all given the space to grow.

Elementary school students bundled up for winter play on a log outside at Waldorf School of Baltimore

STORY REST

In the younger grades at Waldorf school, Story Rest is a cherished daily ritual—an opportunity for children to soak in the beauty of language without the pressure of decoding it themselves. Following their second recess, students in grades 1-3 settle in for a 40-minute period of rich, sophisticated storytelling, where classic and contemporary literature is brought to life through the spoken word.

At this stage, children are still mastering the basics of reading and writing, yet their minds are ready to absorb complex ideas, vivid vocabulary, and intricate narratives. Story Rest bridges that gap, offering every child—whether a budding bookworm or a hesitant reader—access to powerful language, deep discussions, and new perspectives. This exposure builds not just vocabulary, but also comprehension, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of literature.

With eyes closed or hands busy with quiet activities, students listen, imagine, and immerse themselves in the world of words, expanding their understanding in a way that will serve them for years to come.

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Elementary School