*Updated* School has started again, and that has got me thinking a lot about our homeschool space. One thing that needed a little revamp was our seasonal wheel calendar. I made this a while back, and it had started to flop and bend over time. So I implemented a few minor changes, and put it back on the wall (for another go-around!). Detailed below is my original DIY/ Tutorial, with the addition of the newest changes and improvements. Also, here is a photo of where it is in our homeschool room this year. The seasonal wheel is tucked into a cozy corner above one of our work spaces. *Side note: I love the desk pictured above, because it folds up to save space! Enjoy! Thursday, May 28, 2015 For many people the time to start an new calendar is at the start of a new year. But the neat thing about this calendar is that you can start using it anytime! In the spirit of Waldorf Education I wanted to create a seasonal wheel calendar for our homeschool space. In addition to this, we do use a traditional calendar. But, my goal with this was to use the wheel format to illustrate the circular nature of the yearly rhythm. I chose only to include the months and the seasons, so that I could continue to use it year after year. But, you could make an even more elaborate version that included days and/ or dates by simply adding another inner circle. I don't know if this is a "traditional" aspect of Waldorf Education, but it has the general feel. *Although I love Waldorf education and am heavily influenced by it, I am not a Waldorf purist, or expert. To make this project I used the following materials: -2 sheets of Bristol Board -White Glue -Scissors -1 Mini Brad -Colored pencils (my favorite brand is Prismacolor, but Lyra makes a nice set too). -A compass -A standard pencil -An eraser -A long straight edge or ruler -1 piece of cardstock or cardboard (at least as large as your pieces of Bristol Board). The back of a pad of drawing paper, or even part of a cereal box will work well. I gathered my supplies, and on one of my pieces of bristol board, I begin constructing my wheel. Bristol Board is similar to cardstock, but it is a little heavier and (if you get a smooth version) is lovely for drawing with pencil. I also like that it holds up well to lots of erasing and gluing (unlike traditional drawing paper). The first step was to create two circles. Using the compass I made one outer circle that would serve as the edge of the wheel. I didn't measure and exact width. Rather I just made it as wide as the size of the paper would allow. The I moved the compass in about 1/2"-3/4" (again, this measurement can be flexible). I placed the point of the compass in the exact same place in the center of the circle and lightly drew an inner circle. This would serve as my guide for writing the names of the months around the edges. Then came the challenging part. This might be easy for you if you're good at geometry, but it took me a few times to get it right. So if you're like me, draw lightly! First I divided the circle into 4 equal parts, starting from the center. Each of these triangular sections would be the space for a seasonal tree illustration. After that I divided each of those sections into 3 equal parts, creating even spacing for the names of the months. This then left me with 12 equal pieces marked off around the perimeter of the circle. Then it was time to add some color. I started by writing the 12 months around the perimeter (in the 2nd circle I had created). Before I "committed" anything with colored pencil I wrote it all out lightly with regular graphite. Colored pencil will erase a little bit, but not entirely, and not as well as graphite. I also lightly colored in the area with the colors of the rainbow, using cooler colors like blues and greens for the winter months, and warmer colors like reds and oranges for the summer months. I used this image as a reference guide: photo credit As one color transitioned into another I faded them together. The easiest way to do this is to use a lighter touch where the colors will blend together, eventually fading lightly into white. Then, pick up your next color and lightly draw over the last one, gradually increasing the pressure to make add more pigment to the paper. Next, I went over the names of the months with a dark brown colored pencil. Then it was time to draw a tree, four times (once for each season). The good news is that you don't have to be an artist to do this! A simple Google image search (seasons tree illustration) will reveal a wealth of inspiration and references. You could use these as references for your own drawings, or even just print out an image and glue it onto your wheel. For my project I was inspired by this lovely image: photo credit Using the image as a guide, I freehanded four basic trees with my colored pencils. I started by drawing the trunks and branches. I added dark blue shadows to the "cold" season trees, and dark brown shadows to the "warm" season trees. Then I chose colors that represented each season and simply made circles of various sizes over the branches. In the center of the circle I drew a combination sun/ moon for added interest. It would also be neat to draw a star, or a compass rose in the center. Then I cut out the entire circle, and also cut out an identical circle from another blank piece of bristol board. For extra strength I glued the blank circle onto the back of my calendar wheel. I fashioned the pointer from a scrap of paper, colored it, and glued it to the background. Over time, this did not prove to be strong enough, and it started to flop, and bend. So, I added the extra circle of (thin) cardboard to the back. I just used the backing from an old pad of drawing paper and glued it to the reverse side of the wheel. Make it spin! Lastly I pushed a small brad through the center of the wheel and through the back of a brown piece of card-stock paper. I simply stapled it to the wall in our homeschool area. We enjoy turning the wheel slightly every couple of weeks as the months go on. It serves as a great visual reference for learning about the months and seasons of the year! Thanks for stopping by, and Happy Crafting! If you are interested in Waldorf, nature crafts and/or related topics, you may enjoy these posts: Backyard Labyrinth and Compass Natural Materials Playground Lazure Room Homeschool Room Tour Thanks for stopping by! Linking up to these fun parties: http://www.hopeineveryseason.com/ http://livelaughrowe.com/diy-footstool-and-candles/ http://www.artsyfartsymama.com/ http://staceyembracingchange.com/2015/05/28/creative-inspirations-linky-party-140/ http://bloomdesignsonline.com/2015/05/lovely-little-link-party-28.html http://www.acreativeprincess.blogspot.com/ http://thecraftyblogstalker.com/create-link-inspire-linky-party-78/ http://strangersandpilgrimsonearth.blogspot.com/2015/06/the-art-of-home-making-mondays-please.html http://rhinestonebeagle.blogspot.com/2015/05/doggone-dirty-craftin-linky-party_28.html http://www.posedperfection.com/2015/05/creative-ways-link-party-55-and-features.html http://frontierdreams.blogspot.com/2015/09/keep-calm-craft-on-crafting-on.html

Here in New England and in many parts of the country, the temperatures are beginning to dip and the leaves are beginning to change into new and glorious hues. This changing landscape brings us a reason to celebrate autumn in all its glory! Steph Green, the creative visionary behind Waldorf Family, has created these lovely autumn verse cards to help your family celebrate the changing of seasons. Print and place them on your nature tray, dinner table, or any spot that needs a little autumnal magic. Autumn Yellow the bracken, Golden the sheaves. Rosy the apples, Crimson the leaves. Mist on the hillside, Clouds grey and white. Autumn, good morning! Summer good night! Fall Verse Let's go walking through the woods This windy Autumn day Through the leaves, all red and gold We'll dance and sing and play "Come little leaves," said the wind one day. "Come o'er the meadow with me and play. Put on your dresses of red and gold. Summer is gone and the days grow cold." As soon as the leaves heard the wind's low call, Down they came fluttering, one and all. Over the brown fields they whirled and flew, Singing the soft little songs they knew. Dancing and whirling the little leaves went, Autumn had called them and they were content. Soon they will sleep in their soft earthly beds Waiting for winter to cover their heads. “Little leaves, good night!” Leaves at Play Scamper, little leaves, about, In the autumn sun. I can hear the old Wind shout, Laughing, as you run, And I haven’t any doubt, That he likes the fun. So run on and have your play, Romp with all your might. Dance across the autumn day, When the sun is bright. Soon you’ll hear the old Wind say, Download and print our Autumn Verse Cards! Windy Weather Like a leaf or a feather, in the windy, windy, weather We will whirl around and twirl around, And all fall down together. Red in Autumn by Elizabeth Gould Tipperty toes, the smallest elf,
 Sat on a mushroom by himself,
 Playing a little tinkling tune
 Under a big red harvest moon;
 And this is the song that Tipperty made
 To sing to the little tune he played. “Red are the hips, red are the haws,
 Red and gold are the leaves that fall,
 Red are the poppies in the corn,
 Red berries on the rowan tall;
 Red is the big round harvest moon, 
And red are my new little dancing shoon” Explore Waldorf Family Introduce number concepts, letters and seasons the Waldorf way! Steph Green, who made these beautiful autumn verse cards for us, is also the artist and visionary behind Waldorf Family. We are proud to be one of the exclusive retailers for this whimsical line of wooden learning tools. Have you decorated a fall nature table? Learn how to create one in your own home in our latest blog post. Share how you bring Waldorf influences into your home. Follow us on Instagram and share by tagging us @BellaLunaToys or using the hashtag #BellaLunaToys.

In the spirit of Martinmas, I've come up with something to share with you . Now, I've never written a tutorial...so, bear that in mind as you wade through this long strand of mediocre photos and murky instructions. Hopefully by the end, though, you'll have enough clear information to create these lovelies for your own. So, you begin with watercolor paper that has been painted (and dried)...this size happens to be 11x15 and makes a lantern that is roughly 6" tall and 4" square. Any size rectangle will do, but using paper that is much smaller than this won't leave much room for a candle! To make the paper more translucent, use a soft cloth or paper towel to gently rub oil over the entire surface of the paper, front and back. I just used canola oil, and I've used olive oil before, too. You can hold the paper up to the light to see where the translucency has occurred and where you may have missed a spot. Wipe away as much excess oil as possible. If you feel like there is still alot of oil on your paper, lay it between sheets of clean newsprint, then between layers of newspaper and weight it down with a big book for a while. This will blot away extra oil. When I am making several lanterns at a time, I oil all the sheets of paper and store them like this. Skip this blotting step if you feel that you were able to wipe enough oil off and your paper no longer tacky with oil. On the back of the paper, mark a line about 1/2" from the edge. Fold the paper along that line To make the crease very flexible, fold first to the front, then to the back, then lay the paper flat again. Now fold the paper from the right, all the way over to the 1/2" mark. Again, crease the paper sharply, folding both to the front and back. Every fold we make must be creased in this manner. Fold in half again, up to the 1/2" line. Does your paper look like this? Now fold it horizontally in half. (Don't forget to crease it to the back and the front). Fold again horizontally into fourths. When you open the paper flat again, you should have 4 equal rows of 4 equal rectangles with that little 1/2" strip running down the left side. Next, use a straightedge to draw pencil lines diagonally across the rectangles from corner to corner...do this only for the 8 rectangles in the center rows as shown. Do the same thing going the other way, dividing those center rectangles from corner to corner. Crease the paper along these diagonal lines, folding to both the front and back as usual. This is tricky to explain, but not difficult to do. Here is another picture of the same action. Just fold on all the diagonal pencil lines that go one direction, then fold on all the lines that go the other direction. You paper should be looking rather like this. Go up to that top row of rectangles and fold it into thirds...like you are hemming fabric; fold it over a third of the way, then fold it over again. Now use scissors to cut along the folds that separate the 4 rectangles in the bottom row. Also, let's trim away a couple of bits that we won't be needing. Can you see that I've snipped away a portion of the 1/2" strip down on the bottom left? And also up at the top left? Here's a closer look at the top left corner...don't snip away too much! Now the fun begins! "Hem" the top edge of paper by turning it down and gluing it along the folds you made earlier. Depending on what kind of glue you are using, you may need to wait for glue to dry between steps from here on out. Bring the right side of the paper over towards the left. Glue the 1/2 strip (or tab, or flap, if that helps make this clearer) to the back of the righthand edge of the paper. Here is a closer look at that step...I like to slip the very top of the1/2" tab/flap/strip in between the folds of the "hem" to make a neat finish. Do you have something that looks like this? Let the glue dry before going on. When the glue is set, you should have something that opens into a rectangular tube-like shape. Here's another look from a different angle. This "hemmed" edge is the top of the lantern. The flaps at the other end fold in to form the bottom. Glue these as you fold them on top of each other. I like to cut a square of card stock to glue to the bottom. It makes it sturdier and gives it a more finished look. And here is another square of card stock glued to the inside to finish that, too. A heavy can or jar can weight things down while the glue sets. (That is the pasta sauce that I'm going to have to feed my family tonight because I've spent all afternoon goofing around with lanterns). Once all the glue is dry, you can begin shaping the lantern. This is why we folded every crease both to the front and the back...so we could get this awesome shape. Beginning at the sharp corner edges of the lantern, press the diamond shapes so that they pop inward. Work your way from diamond to diamond...all the diamonds should curve inward at their centers and point outward at their points. Just keep manipulating the paper until you are able to achieve this. And there it is! Just the right size for a centerpiece or mantle decoration...or a Lantern Walk! You can make a string or wire handle to thread through holes punched in the top edge if you like. A tealight candle can be glued to the center of the bottom of the lantern...it is quite safe. Happy Martinmas! Welcome Season of Light!

Our unique seasonal clock "Cycle of Time" - an inspiring tool that doesn't count the hours, but shows the wonders of nature and the treasures of the annual cycle. This clock is more than just a timepiece. It is a companion that introduces children to the passage of time and the seasons in a fascinating way. The Cycle of Time clock replaces traditional clocks with the 12 months, making it the ideal tool for teaching children the concept of time and the passage of the year in a fun way. Simply set the hand to the current month and you can follow the cycle of the year. Each month has its own magic, and this clock will help you discover it. In the background of the clock stretches the seasonal tree, which divides the months into the categories of spring, summer, autumn and winter. This tree is not only a visual guide but also a source of inspiration, reminding us how nature changes its colours and changes throughout the year. The Cycle of Time Clock is not only an educational tool but also an artistic masterpiece. Made from plywood, it features a beautiful watercolor print that brings the beauty of the seasons into your home. A natural ribbon serves not only as a frame but also as a practical hanger so you can easily hang the clock on the wall. This clock lets you and your children experience the magic of time and nature. It is the perfect gift to make learning fun and enriching. Experience the cycle of time and the wonders of the seasons with our "Cycle of Time" clock. It's more than just a clock - it's a window to nature and a companion on your journey through the year. Diameter:21cm Warning: This product is not suitable for children under three years due to small parts that can be swallowed! According to Section 19 Paragraph 1 of the VAT Act, no sales tax is charged.

Since you can’t exactly drive to Party City and pick up Summer Solstice decorations, I thought I’d do a quick tutorial on a very easy paper sun. Click on the image to see the full direc…

We have begun the exciting journey into cursive writing, but we’re learning it in probably a different way than you did as a kid. First, we’re beginning in Second grade whil…

We have the most beautiful perpetual circular Waldorf calendar hanging on our wall. It’s drawn by Phoebe Wahl and depicts a delightful gnome family going about their seasonal days. My children consult it often. They turn the season dial at the start of each season (March on top now on top). They write in important […]

For the 19th and 20th days of Art Every Day Month, I've been making window stars. These are the stars that I sell in my shop, Harvest Moon by Hand. I had three orders come in during the past few days - two of which are rather large ones. One of the customers will be using the window stars for a backdrop for her holiday photo cards. She's going to have her children stand in front of the window stars. The other customer who placed a very large order will be using the window stars to decorate a bank of windows at an early education center. The center is in the Arctic - so I'm sure this time of the year things are pretty cold and barren. Hopefully the window stars brighten up the center for the children and their families who go there each day. As a side note, I tend to take photos of the completed stars. Every once in a while, though, I like to take a picture of a star in progress. Some of the points are attached to one another...while others are sitting to the right ready to be glued. It's time to rest now so I can begin working on the remainder of the stars for one of the orders (the one to the Arctic) early tomorrow morning. I'd like to complete them by tomorrow afternoon so I can do some other creative projects that I wanted to do during Art Every Day Month.

I love making Waldorf stars. They look so beautiful when stuck to a window, and are especially magical when catching the pale winter light. They are deceptively easy to make, and are lovely decorat…

This guide to Seasonal Festivals (aka Waldorf Festivals) covers everything from Michaelmas to Candlemas to the Advent Spiral to May Day to St. John's Tide and everything in between.

Last year I was at a Waldorf conference and many of the mothers in attendance (me included!) had the same concern: "But Waldorf toys are so expensive!" The lecturer nodded in an understanding way and then offered his response that...

Wondering how to learn Waldorf art? The crayon drawings, the watercolor paintings, and oh, those colorful chalkboard drawings! Waldorf Art for Beginners.

There was a time when society functioned in relationship to the sun – rising with the first light and going to sleep when it set at night, sleeping more in the winter during the dark months and les…

Have you ever wondered how goblins live? Download our printable Haunted House and jack’o’lantern transparencies and find out. Add colorful Waldorf-inspired window art with this free transparency template. Layers of Waldorf Window Star Paper to add dimension and brighten your windows for this fun and festive season!

Summer Awakens May 28th, 2020 "Tic toc, tic tocspend your day on a rock,by the sea, in the water,With the sonWith the daughterTic tocTic toc" ~ Kisten Rickert JUNE'S SUN BEAMS it's golden rays onto our beautiful earth. The days are long, the nights warm. We are appreciating being slow and quiet this summer. Whether

Pinpunching snowflakes and mittens. The mittens can be decorated with little dots or paper-punched snowflakes Pinpunching a snowman and decorating with various items Cutting coffee-filter snowflakes. I like to pre-fold and pre-draw the lines, then paperclip together to help the younger ones manage this work. Older children can be shown how to prepare the […]

NATURE-BASED PLAY AND LEARNING ACTIVITY SET (Suitable for Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Waldorf, Nature Based Schools and Daycares, and Homeschools) 🇨🇦 Handmade in Canada 🌱PLASTIC FREE - EARTH FRIENDLY ❖ Excellent Natural Resource for Science, Math and Imaginative Play. THIS KIT INCLUDES: ❖ Base and trunk: 5x5x12” (the exact measurements might be slightly different for each tree toy) ❖ 6+2 sticks ❖ 200 assorted beads grouped by season ❖ 4 drawstring cotton storage bags ❖ Wooden tray (might be different from the one in the pictures) ❖ Instructional booklet OPTIONAL ITEM: ❖ Hardcover book: "Tap the MagicTree" by Christie Matheson 📦📦📦 If you would like to add more than 1 tree set to your order, please message me, and I will create a special listing to save on shipping costs. AGE RECOMMENDATIONS: • Preschool (3-year-olds): adult supervision recommended • Kindergarten to Grade 2 (4-7-year-olds) - ideal for learning purposes • Any age - for stress relief and mind relaxation • Not recommended for children under 3 years of age due to choking hazards. DISCLAIMER: This product is carefully handcrafted and part of its uniqueness and beauty lies in its imperfections. Just like in nature, there are no two trees exactly the same. Depending on the available supply, the tree trunk can come with or without bark. ADD EXTRA BEADS: ❖ https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/829064136/beads-set-refill-for-mini-wooden-tree OTHER TREE VERSIONS: ❖ seasonal mini wooden tree: https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/891855775/seasonal-mini-wooden-tree-educational ❖ mini wood-burned tree: https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/888209351/mini-wood-burned-tree-educational-toy ❖ mini wooden tree - all natural: https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/811356820/mini-wooden-tree-educational-toy ❖ mini yarn tree: https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/977789095/mini-yarn-tree-educational-toy ❖ build your own tree: https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/903342663/build-your-own-wooden-tree-educational

During winter we don't have so many outdoor activities because temperatures here are constantly below zero. But luckily there are tons of winter crafts and arts activities to make with kids and have cold winter days amusing. I especially love seasonal Waldorf activities inspired by nature, followed by Waldorf books that are helping us understand

In the spirit of Martinmas, I've come up with something to share with you . Now, I've never written a tutorial...so, bear that in mind ...

Wie versprochen anbei die Anleitung der Sterne von unserem Basar. Leider weiß ich den Namen nicht. Eine Waldorferzieherin hat uns gezeigt,...

I can’t bring you Friday’s Nature Table today… why? Because I can’t wait a moment longer to show you the knitted Waldorf story blanket we made to raffle off at our Harvest Faire on Saturday. Just look at it… isn’t it quite the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen!! It is a Maple Village tradition […]