"With so many choices when it comes to parenting, it can easily feel overwhelming. Choosing Prairie Hill's Early Childhood Program for our children is one choice I never question. Every child would be so lucky to grow in an environment that nurtures love, compassion, self-discovery and joy."

- KATIE ERDMAN, PHWS parent

In our Kindergarten, childhood is protected, play is essential, and relationships are nurtured. This leads to children who are confident, self-aware, and balanced as they enter the rigorous academics found in the grades. Pre-academic skills fostered by our play-based curriculum include sequencing, sensory integration, eye-hand coordination, vocabulary, memory, abstract thinking, and other basic skills necessary for the foundation of academic excellence. In this loving and creative environment, the children are given everything they need to prepare for the next phase of school life.

The Waldorf Kindergarten is modeled on the home, with the teacher being the loving and guiding authority. The majority of our Kindergarteners' day is spent outside in our extensive outdoor classrooms. Here they have freedom to explore, an outlet for their vibrant energy, and a deep appreciation for the world around them. A gentle rhythm carries them through their day, with more exuberant activities balanced with calming ones. The rich social environment of a mixed-age group provides opportunities for emotional growth and maturity. 

• Learning stories, poems and songs by heart
• Helping prepare healthy meals and snacks
• Practicing good manners with their classmates
• Learning to resolve conflict with compassion
• Exploring nature year-round
• Plenty of time for creative free play
• Participating in cleaning and chores
• Developing their own games and stories
• Lavender foot rubs at nap-time
• Creating art projects with natural materials
• A schedule designed to create a gentle transition to first grade

Lead Kindergarten Teacher

Jenifer Minor began her studies in child development and anthroposophy in 2016 as a student with the Great Lakes Waldorf Institute. Native to Wisconsin, she was attracted to the reverence, beauty, and love that Waldorf education brings to the world. Prior to beginning her studies with Great Lakes, she lived in Minneapolis and then New York City, earning a bachelor’s degree in flute performance. More recently, Jenifer held an Early Childhood position at the Emerson Waldorf School in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Miss Jenifer enjoys gardening and being in nature, creating and attempting new handwork projects, connecting with people, and spending time with her tabby cat, Zorro.

Miss Jenifer warmly greets the children with open arms and an open heart each morning. Her calm and loving demeanor provides a strong foundation for the day's activities as she leads the children through their daily and seasonal rhythms. 

Lead Kindergarten Teacher

Stanlee Maliszewski received a BS in Psychology and Human Services from Carroll University, her Masters of Arts in Education, and Waldorf Early Childhood Certification from Mount Mary University. Stanlee has attended the LifeWays Early Childhood and Human Development Training in Milwaukee, which was developed by one of the founding teachers at Prairie Hill. Before moving into the Kindergarten classroom, she had been Prairie Hill’s Playgroup Coordinator, leading playgroups for parents & children ages infant to 4 years old and also coordinator of our wonderful Summer Garden Camp program.

Miss Stanlee is an embodiment of what it means to be a "Loving Authority". She teaches the children how to be their best selves through consistent modeling of good behavior and firm boundaries that provide a sense of security for the children.

Lead Kindergarten Teacher

Claire Lippe received her BA in International Relations from the University of Winona State, a Masters of Sustainable Peacebuilding from the University of Milwaukee-Wisconsin and has completed a variety of Lifeways Early Childhood courses. In her previous work, she was a director of a Waldorf-inspired daycare in West Milwaukee. Claire has been a part of the Prairie Hill community starting at the age of 2 years old, when she attended Playgroup (parent-child classes). She later graduated with her 8th grade class in 2008. Between studying, Claire returned to Prairie Hill to teach in the Early Childhood and extended Care programs. 

By offering clear boundaries, demonstrating healthy habits, and encouraging curious minds, Miss Claire provides the children in her care the space for childhood to blossom.

Additional information:

4 years to 6 years old. This mixed-aged class includes younger and older students to provide a rich social environment. Classes are filled on a first come/first serve basis.

3 Day Kindergarten (M, T, W) 8:15 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.

5 Day Kindergarten (M, T, W, F) 8:15 a.m. to 3:35 p.m & (Thursdays) 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

5 Half Day Kindergarten (M, T, W, Th, F) 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Before & After Care Available

Apply:

Students intending to join Kindergarten are required to spend a full day in one of our classrooms or attend one of our Early Childhood Adventures. For more infomation please get in touch with our Admissions Coordinator at 262-646-7497 or [email protected]