Hi. I'm Melanie.
​​ My Waldorf-inspired homeschool journey has led me to a passion for early childhood education and crafting! I make dolls and puppets, I knit, crochet, felt, sew. I weave. I spin. I dye yarns, wools, fabrics. I process wool. I quilt and embroider. I also wield a skill saw for Waldorf-inspired figures, play some wooden recorder, a glockenspiel, and the lyre, and I'm diving deep into the world of the storytelling arts and puppetry!
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I am currently studying and training in Waldorf puppetry and story writing with Juniper Tree Puppets, as well as completing my Waldorf Early Childhood Teacher Certification with Sophia Institute.
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An Arts-Integrated Educational Approach
A Steiner Education is based on a deep understanding of child development. It emphasizes a holistic approach to learning that nurtures the intellectual, emotional, and physical aspects of a child’s growth and aligns with the natural developmental phases of a child, ensuring that education meets children where they are emotionally, cognitively, and physically. By fostering creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking at the appropriate stages, this arts-integrated education offers a balanced and effective approach to nurturing well-rounded individuals. Peer-reviewed studies support the approach’s effectiveness, particularly in promoting social-emotional development, creativity, and cognitive flexibility. In a world that increasingly values innovation and emotional intelligence, this pedagogical model offers a valuable pathway to cultivating thoughtful, imaginative, and intellectually capable individuals.
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My Values
I have always valued a life guided and shaped from the inside out. I have a deep respect and love for creating art, for doing my best to raise children in a soul-honoring way, for seeking Universal knowledge and wisdom, and following my intuition and insight as I am guided!
My Beliefs
I belief we are all meant to tap into our highest potential and live a life of value and service to humanity and to our world at large if we can, no matter how small or large the endeavor may be. I have been deeply influenced by Steiner's teachings, the Catholic faith, Buddhism, Waldorf homeschooling philosophy, as well as my own experiences and "innerstanding" of this spirit-filled world we are immersed in.
My Mission
My mission is to gather with like minded folks to create a beautiful and nurturing space for our children to be educated in a way that honors the natural world, cultivates morality, and deepens their connection to this Spirit-filled world. I am creating a space for moms and their children mainly ages 2 - 12, to come together in community and encourage the awakening of children's imagination, their love of the world around them, and their holistic growth!
The sea calm is the Absolute; the same sea in waves is Divine Mother.
- Swami Vivekananda
I grew up in a lovely family home in New Orleans, Louisiana and was private school educated. But! By the time I was 20, I was ready to spread my wings! I lived in Italy for several years and found I had a talent for learning languages. I also deeply enjoyed learning about other cultures around the world. I went on to become fluent in Italian and Spanish. All my plans changed however upon the birth of my first son. Although I was a certified Spanish high school teacher at that time, I quickly decided to become a stay-at-home mom, and ultimately a homeschool teacher. During my journey as a Waldorf-inspired homeschooler, I was deeply moved by the arts-integrated approach to learning! I also found I had a certain knack and skill for handwork of all kinds, such as knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving, felting, and sewing. And I found much solace in long hours spent creating.
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I currently have bees, chickens, a garden, and an art/quilting studio on our little suburban "homestead" in the Panhandle of Florida. I would consider myself a lifelong learner for sure! Two out of our four children are currently homeschooling.
I look forward to sharing my unique skillset and coming together with like minded folks!
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For more on my formal career path (like mostly before I had children!), please check out my LinkdIn profile.
