Definition of cult:
(noun) A relatively small group that…read moreexcessively controls its members, who share a set of acts and practices which require unwavering devotion, and are typically led by a charismatic and often self-appointed leader.
Yes, that's how I would describe this early learning center.
Let me explain- my son (2 years) and I attended a Saturday playdate a couple months ago. As soon as I set foot inside those gates, I wanted out. Something felt off, and I felt trapped. It did not feel like a normal daycare open house. We were hounded by the staff the entire time, answering question after question about our son. I am all about alternative education, especially early childhood. I also have read some Rudolf Steiner and understand the spiritual aspects of his teachings. But this "secular" school had Christian mangers EVERYWHERE, and they admitted they teach about Jesus, which is not super secular at all. You would think in 2023, they would have left all of the prejudiced and supremacist Steiner teachings out, keeping just what is actually relevant in our current world. Just not so at this place, unfortunately. Everything was super white, "white is right", and non-inclusive.
Which brings me to the finale of this horrible experience. They asked us to help them bake bread, and everyone attending took part in the process, and then we sat down to eat it. Not 6 hours later, my son is vomiting with a high fever, is weak, and won't eat anything. The very next day, I come down with similar symptoms. I have dubbed this event, the "Poison Playdate" for this reason, and reported the school to Chicago Public Health. They should be shut down for a potential rotavirus outbreak.
On a side note, my friend volunteered briefly at another Waldorf school and she said they reused broth that was who knows how old in their "bread," so maybe this problem is more endemic than anyone could imagine.
I won't be going back to any more Waldorf school events- I sincerely hope other parents use caution as well. Additionally, I contacted the school about our illness, and they denied any potential responsibility.
Red flags all around