Waldorf Education
Waldorf education is based on the work of Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925), an Austrian philosopher,
artist, scientist and teacher. His many books and extensive lectures laid the basis for a new
understanding of the human being, eventually called Spiritual Science or “Anthroposophy.”
Steiner described how, by developing our human potential, we gradually become able to
recognize the creative laws that are at work in nature and in social life. Anthroposophy fosters
individual development and freedom, which cultivates social responsibility and respect for
others.
Today there are over 700 Waldorf schools worldwide. The curriculum of a Waldorf school is
geared towards the child’s developmental stages. The teachers shape the subject matter to suit
the background, abilities and individual qualities of their particular class. The curriculum is
coordinated with the three phases of growth and development through which children pass
before reaching maturity. The first period extends from birth to age six or seven. During this
time children learn primarily through imitation. The second period begins around age seven
when the child realizes new powers through the forces of imagination and memory. The third
period begins at puberty when awareness of physiological changes occurs, characterized by
increased independence of thought and action. |
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