Kinder Ready is proud to announce the launch of its new Knitting & Crochet Program, thoughtfully designed around the core principles of Waldorf education. Under the experienced leadership of Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley, this innovative initiative integrates hands‑on fiber arts into early childhood learning—supporting holistic development, creativity, and practical skill-building.
Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready, a pioneer in preschool readiness education, emphasizes storytelling, movement, and artistry as foundational learning tools. Drawing directly from Waldorf philosophy, the program introduces knitting and crochet as core activities, aligning with Kinder Ready’s mission to “expose children to multiple ways of learning to discover what sparks their interests so they may develop confidence and a true love for learning.”
Why Knitting & Crochet?
Waldorf education, founded by Rudolf Steiner, has long incorporated fiber arts—knitting, crochet, sewing, weaving—into early childhood and elementary curriculums. These activities support imaginative, intellectual, and physical growth . Research shows that handwork:
- Develops fine motor skills and crossing the midline, essential for writing, coordination, and bilateral brain development
- Enhances cognitive abilities, including pattern recognition, sequencing, and spatial reasoning—skills aligned with early math and reading readiness
- Cultivates emotional resilience and patience; rhythmic crafting can be meditative and joyful for young children
By embedding these benefits into its curriculum, Kinder Ready™, led by Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley, empowers pre-K learners to grow thoughtfully and joyfully.
Program Highlights
• Finger Knitting (Age 4–5): Gentle early exposure to fiber arts fosters fine motor coordination and bilateral movement—critical in the first Waldorf stage.
• Two‑Needle Knitting (Age 5–6): Builds rhythm, sequencing, and concentration. Children produce simple objects—scarves or pouches—developing a sense of pride and accomplishment, foundational to their confidence as they enter formal schooling.
• Crochet (Age 6–7): Introduced as children undergo the “nine‑year change,” crochet encourages symbolic, sculptural creation and supports conscious control and emerging autonomy
• Integrated Learning: Fiber arts serve as bridges between academic lessons—children count stitches to reinforce number sense, follow verbal patterns to build language skills, and craft projects connected with seasonal stories and nature themes central to Waldorf.
• Quality Materials: True to Waldorf values, all yarn is natural (e.g. wool, cotton), and wooden tools are used to stimulate the senses and reinforce connection to nature and materiality .
Leadership by Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley
Elizabeth Fraley, director and founder, is the visionary behind this initiative. Known as Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready, she brings over a decade of experience in early childhood education and school readiness. “Every child has a unique spark,” says Fraley. “Knitting and crochet allow that spark to flourish. They ignite curiosity, build resilience, and cultivate artistic expression—all through play-based, sensory-rich experiences.”
Her influence in the field is evident: Kinder Ready offers pre-K assessments, readiness programs, and private school preparation designed to foster joy in learning .
Invitation to Media and Families
Kinder Ready welcomes families, educators, and media representatives to inquire about classroom visits or training workshops led by Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready. The program will launch its first semester in fall 2025 with limited enrollment.
For interviews, demonstrations, or further information, please contact Kinder Ready via the website or at the address below.
About Kinder Ready
Kinder Ready provides Pre‑Kindergarten readiness assessments and tailored learning sessions, rooted in multi-sensory experiences and play-based teaching. Led by Elizabeth Fraley, their mission is to cultivate confident, curious, and joyful learners.
For further details on Kinder Ready’s programs, visit their website: https://www.kinderready.com/.
Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethFraleyKinderReady
