We are the element-i Waldmühle childcare centre – a place where children can move freely, have a say in their everyday lives and grow in a safe and caring environment. Our childcare centre opened in April 2020 and is located directly on the Waldmühle activity farm. This means that nature, animals and authentic outdoor experiences are a natural part of our daily routine.
Our partnership with the Waldmühle activity and animal farm enriches our educational work through animal-assisted learning. Here, the children encounter alpacas, ponies, sheep and other animals. They observe them, help to care for them, ask questions, marvel and learn to treat living creatures and their environment with respect. Our regular forest days and the many opportunities to explore plants, animals, soil, weather and the changing seasons also make Waldmühle a vibrant place for learning through experience.
Our open-plan concept gives the children plenty of freedom to follow their own paths, discover their interests and actively shape their day. We support them attentively and reliably, always focusing on what they need at that particular moment. Our team brings together staff members of different ages and levels of experience, ensuring that every child is seen and feels safe and secure.
We make conscious use of nature and carefully selected materials. The children are encouraged to experiment, create, collect, build and explore – using what they find outdoors and following ideas inspired by their own observations. In this way, creativity, independence and a sense of responsibility develop naturally through everyday experiences.
Our kitchen is a special focal point of the childcare centre. A professionally trained cook prepares fresh meals for the children every day – and sometimes cooks together with them. The children can watch, help, smell and taste, experiencing first-hand how wholesome ingredients are turned into a meal.
