Waldorf education began in Germany in 1919 due in large part to Rudolf Steiner who was asked to design a school that would educate children who would be able to create a peaceful society. Steiner believed education should focus on creating free, creative, independent, and happy human beings. Steiner's ideas about the development of the child gave rise to an educational approach for children preschool through adolescents. A basic principle of the approach is the belief that every child should have access to an education regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, economic class, and developmental levels.

The curriculum for 3-6 year olds is based on the importance of movement, play and fantasy. Typically a Waldorf classroom has large baskets containing wooden blocks, simple dolls, pots and pans, and wooden toys. Each day preschoolers are free to create stories and dramas. Children are also free to imitate and watch their teacher for he/she allows for a child-directed approach to education. The Waldorf teacher is trained to embody poise, grace, warmth, equanimity, and enthusiasm and serves as an example for children.

 

Resources

Web site:

Rudolf Steiner College ~ Waldorf Education ~

Books:

Title: An Introduction to Waldorf Education
Author: Henry Barnes
Publisher: Mercury Press, Chestnut Ridge, NY
Date: 1985

Title: Steiner Education in Theory and Practice
Author: Gilbert Childs
Publisher: Floris Books, Edinburgh
Date: 1991