Learning about the Waldorf education philosophy

For those whose fondest memories are of circle time, jungle gyms and block letters, the Westside Waldorf School is providing an opportunity to tap your inner child with a two-part workshop that will explore the philosophy and history underpinning a Waldorf education.

The Waldorf movement was founded by Rudolf Steiner in 1919 and incorporates visual arts, drama, dance, music and crafts in subject areas as diverse as math and writing. There are independent Waldorf schools in 60 countries but some of its methods have also been integrated into public and charter schools.

Designed for Waldorf parents, prospective parents and outside educators, the workshop will allow participants to experience typical activities of a Waldorf student from nursery school to eighth grade -- among them watercoloring and form drawing with a Waldorf teacher, circle time, a puppet show and story  time.

The event begins at 7 p.m. Friday, with the workshop on Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the school, 17310 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades. The workshop is free. For reservations call (310) 454-7064, ext 1.

-- Carla Rivera