Waldorf, Montessori & Reggio Emilia Education: 3 Approaches
Here we highlight three approaches to early childhood education. For more, please see our 2019-2020 Preschool Guide.
Waldorf
Waldorf education is based on the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, the founder of Anthroposophy. Its pedagogy strives to develop pupils’ intellectual, artistic, and practical skills in an integrated and holistic manner. The cultivation of pupils’ imagination and creativity is a central focus.The first Waldorf school opened in 1919 in Stuttgart, Germany. A century later, it has become the largest independent school movement in the world, with about 1,200 independent Waldorf schools, 1,800 kindergartens and 646 centers for special education located in 75 countries.
Cedarwood Waldorf School
3030 SW 2nd Ave
503-245-1477
cedarwoodschool.org
Their early childhood program is play based and well-rounded, with hands-on artistic & practical activities, social skillbuilding, and loads of time outdoors. Ages Infant-7 years, $1,200-$16,500/yr.
Micha-el School
13515A SE Rusk Rd
503-882-3322
micha-elschool.org
Waldorf School dedicated to bringing Rudolf Steiner’s intentions and indications into the 21st century. Grades K-8, $6,730-$8,340/yr
Portland Village School
7654 North Delaware Ave
503-445-0056
portlandvillageschool.org
Advancing a Waldorf-inspired education, teaching respect & reverence by developing the head, heart & hands of children from all backgrounds & cultures. Grades K-8, free public charter
Portland Waldorf School
2300 SE Harrison St., Milwaukie
503-654-2200
portlandwaldorf.org
Education for the whole of life. Ages: Infant-12th Grade, $5,000-$19,000/yr
Montessori
Little Fruit Farm
16445 SW Melinda St, Beaverton
503-521-8603
littlefruitfarmmontessori.com
Celebrating a Love for Learning since 2004. Beautiful Home & Garden School, Classical Montessori Activities year-round. Ages 2-6, $700-$1,250/mo
Montessori of Alameda
4210 NE Going St, Portland 503-335-3321 montessoriofalameda.com
They provide a child centered educational environment and bilingual Spanish and English Montessori experience for children birth to Kindergarten. Ages 3mo-K, $1,035 to $1,635/mo
The Children’s Garden
Multiple Locations 503-228-2443
thechildrensgarden.com
Helping children discover their special qualities, blossom within their uniqueness and learn how to learn in a nurturing environment. Ages infant-K, $948 to $1,620/mo
Reggio Emilia
The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational philosophy focused on preschool and primary education. It is a pedagogy described as student centered and constructivist that uses self-directed, experiential learning in relationship-driven environments. The program is based on the principles of respect, responsibility, and community through exploration and discovery through a self-guided curriculum. At its core is an assumption that children form their own personality during early years of development and are endowed with “a hundred languages”, through which they can express their ideas. The aim of the Reggio approach is to teach how to use these symbolic languages (e.g., painting, sculpting, drama) in everyday life. It was developed after World War II by pedagogist Loris Malaguzzi and parents in the villages around Reggio Emilia, Italy, and derives its name from the city.
Hillsboro Parent Preschool
168 NE 8th Ave, Hillsboro 503-648-4781
hillsboroparentpreschool.com
Hillsboro Parent Preschool is cooperative school that inspires children’s
creativity, wonder and love of learning using the Reggio Emilia approach.
Ages 3-5, $180-$258/mo
