Physical movement is an essential element of Waldorf education, whether it’s marching to count out numbers, practicing Aikido, or engaging in cooperative games, and other athletic activities. The way a child moves their physical body in space gives a window into their inner workings and serves as a guide as to how it is best to serve them in their developmental stage. Movement classes are designed to give each child the opportunity to inhabit their bodies with a grace and confidence that will carry into their adult professional and personal lives.

Movement

At Bright Water Waldorf School, outdoor activity and movement are integral parts of daily life from the earliest grades. The play yard, with its open-concept design and absence of permanent structures, provides a flexible space where students can engage in imaginative, collaborative play. This freedom encourages the development of creativity, teamwork, and physical skills, and allows for a variety of movement games that build collaboration, strength of will, and the spirit of play.

Movement activities are carefully aligned with the main lesson material; for example, in the fifth grade, when students study Greek and Roman history, they also participate in an Olympiad. These early activities help establish a solid foundation in balance, coordination, strength, and spatial awareness, which continues to support students throughout their educational journey.

As children enter middle school, physical movement remains an essential aspect of their development. Sixth graders are given opportunities to explore their capabilities through a variety of exercises and games, and begin to build a relationship with strength training while delving into competitive play. The year culminates in the Medieval Games, featuring activities like tug-of-war and archery.

In seventh and eighth grades, students push the boundaries of their endurance and develop a deeper connection with their muscular, connective, and skeletal systems. With an emphasis on both competitive and cooperative play, they train for the annual track meet, competing in events such as discus, javelin, and distance running. This dynamic, hands-on approach to movement supports students in shaping both their physical and personal growth.

Aikido

Here in our new home in the Japanese Cultural and Community Center we have chosen to teach Aikido as a way to connect with the cultural heritage of our surroundings.

Aikido, widely known as the non violent martial art provides students with opportunities to learn about vigorous interactions with each other and physical competence through movement. The practice of falling and rolling is important and integral for the formation of self protection and spatial awareness. Learning to roll, fall and recover from errors and failure are part of the skills needed in navigating life. The interpersonal connection dynamics between students on the mat allows for the development of conflict resolution skills, self-protection, and self knowledge. Bright Water Waldorf School is proud to be able to offer Aikido for Grades 1-8 as a primary movement class in the J's dojo's.