Are you wondering what is Waldorf education? What makes it different from other teaching philosophies?
Waldorf education was founded by Rudolph Steiner in 1919 in Germany, it is also known as Steiner education. Steiner looked at child development in 3 stages. Early childhood included children up to age 7 who learn through hands on activities and imitation. The middle childhood or elementary years is from 7-14 focuses on creative learning. While secondary students age 14 and up focus on academics particularly abstract concepts.
What is a Waldorf education?
Waldorf education encourages the child to think for themselves and develop themselves as a whole person with respect for those around them and to be socially responsible as well.
There is an emphasis on:
- Lots of outdoor time to observe nature and natural surroundings
- Arts – visual, music, and drama
- No TV or computers
- No textbooks – they read books they love and make their own books on what they’ve learned
- Toys with made with natural materials ie. waldorf dolls – Waldorf Doll Leaf Elf
Essentially, the final goal of Waldorf education is to round out the student in mind, soul, and spirituality. It is important for the child to think for themselves using their own judgement. There are many schools that follow the Waldorf education philosophy but if you are interested in implementing the a Waldorf education at home there is curriculum available as well.
Favorite Waldorf books
- Understanding Waldorf Education: Teaching from the Inside Out
- Creative Play for Your Toddler: Steiner Waldorf Expertise and Toy Projects for 2 – 4s
- Waldorf Education: A Family Guide
Favorite Waldorf blogs
This post is a part of my 31 day series – Ultimate List of Homeschooling Questions.
Andrea says
Thanks for the mention! Waldorf Homeschooling has not only changed how we homeschool it has changed how we live. As our children have gotten older the curriculum has started to look different. But what we learned about slowing down and living with intention has only gotten deeper as the years have passed. Blessings to you and your family:) Andrea
Monique says
No worries, I love sharing about different homeschooling families, everyone does it so differently.
Pam the Writer says
“Lots of outdoor time to observe nature and natural surroundings” I do like such kind of Waldorf education for kids.