Both Waldorf and Montessori preschools can provide be excellent preschool philosophies. Montessori education was founded by Dr. Maria Montessori and has a strong focus on developing a child's independence and practical life experiences. Waldorf education founded by Rudolf Steiner, focuses on developing a child's imagination and puts less emphasis on academic pursuits. Both are play-based and child-led and both Waldorf and Montessori programs stress a child's connection to the natural world. Waldorf education generally incorporates more art, though Montessori preschools also include in. The view of practical life differs, with Waldorf including activities like woodworking and gardening and Montessori stressing self care and care of the environment to develop a sense of responsibility and independence.