Waldorf Curriculum

The curriculum is used consciously to address the differing and changing phases that occur in the developing child between the ages of seven and fourteen years.

Subjects are introduced at a time and in a way to best facilitate a healthy growth and balance in the child’s physical, emotional and intellectual development, and between a growing individualism and a sense for community. For these reasons a firm structure of clear rhythms is provided.

The children learn their main subjects in three-to-six week blocks which rotate throughout the year. They engage in activities as members of a group, but they are responsible as individuals for their own created textbook for each subject.

The teacher strives to relate each subject to the human being so that the children understand intimately the interconnectedness of the subjects as well as their relationship to them. Thus the curriculum is intended as an instrument of inspiration as well as instruction.

The approach and indications for what is taught are based on Dr. Rudolf Steiner’s research which challenges the individual teacher to work out the specifics.

The Waldorf Movement

Founded in Europe in 1919, Waldorf Education now includes schools on every continent and has grown to become the world’s largest independent, non-denominational school system that goes through all grades. By the end of the 20th Century there were about 1000 Waldorf Schools.

A system that recognizes and meets the need for strong development of the intellect, Waldorf is committed to excellence in all basic academic skills. It provides a full introduction to the classics, foreign languages, history, geography, mathematics, science…the subjects today’s child needs as a foundation for tomorrow’s complex and challenging civilization.

Even though every Waldorf School is independent, all share a core curriculum, methods and beliefs, including the idea that a fulfilled and creative life involves considerably more than mental development or the ability to earn a living. Important as these things are, every child also needs the balance provided by strong and healthy development in the life of will (the ability to get things done) and in the life of feelings (emotions, aesthetics, social sensitivity).

A Waldorf Education is meant to be the beginning of a life-long love of learning.

Helpful Resources

The links below will take you to websites where you can learn more about Waldorf education.

Association of Waldorf Schools in North America
AWSNA is an association of independent Waldorf schools and Waldorf teacher education institutes.
www.WhyWaldorfWorks.org

The Alliance for Childhood
Promotes policies and practices that support children’s healthy development, love of learning, and joy in living.

WECAN
Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America