Waldorf education is an alternative educational system, based on the teachings of Rudolf Steiner, a late-19th and early 20th century clairvoyant whose writings and teachings form the basis for the spiritual movement called Anthroposophy. Today, Anthroposophy is studied by Waldorf-trained teachers, who run a worldwide network of Waldorf Schools.

Alternative Curriculum

The Waldorf curriculum for young children includes Eurythmy, knitting, baking, sewing, music, outdoor play, and strongly discourages television and computer use. It encourages parents to tell stories to their children, emphasize rhythm and ritual in their daily routine, and unlike current mainstream educational programs, delays the formal teaching of reading, mathematics, and other skills evaluated by standardized tests.

Mainstreaming

Many parents who first investigate Waldorf education are delighted with its strengths when their children are toddlers; however in middle school, many choose to move their children back to mainstream educational institutions. Moving to a new school is always a big change in the life of student; changing not only schools but curriculums, especially in the Middle School years, can be challenging for both students and parents.

Often, behaviors or aptitudes that were appropriate for one context are not what is expected or rewarded in another. As a website that is operated by parents of former Waldorf students who have changed school systems, however, we are available to answer questions you might have on how to make the transition as smooth as possible.