A Quote about Waldorf Education
“North American schools are having a crisis in values. Half the children fail according to standard measures and the other half wonder why they are learning what they do. As is appropriate to life in a democracy, there are a handful of alternatives. Among the alternatives, the Waldorf school represents a chance for every child to grow and learn according to the most natural rhythms of life. For the early school child, this means a non-competitive, non-combative environment in which the wonders of science and literature fill the day without causing anxiety and confusion. For the older child, it offers a curriculum that addresses the question of why they are learning. I have sent two of my children to Waldorf schools and they have been wonderfully well served.”
–Raymond McDermott, Ph.D., Professor of Education and Anthropology, Stanford University
Recommended Book and Website
1. Adventures in Steiner Education by Brien Masters
An internationally acknowledged authority in Steiner education, Brien Masters has worked for decades as a teacher in both public and Waldorf schools, and has served as a teacher trainer, consultant, writer and lecturer. In Adventures in Steiner Education, he draws on his rich and varied experience to paint a vivid picture of Waldorf education in practice. Spicing the text with many personal stories and anecdotes, he brings to life the theory behind this increasingly popular educational approach, from the early years through to the Lower and Upper Schools.
This lively book serves not only as an informative and entertaining introduction, but also as a helpful refresher course for those seeking to become acquainted with the basic principles of Steiner Education.
2. http://thewaldorfconnection.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Winter-festivals-guidebook-2012.pdf
-An excellent guide for Winter songs, recipes and activities celebrating the traditions of many cultures and faiths.
Activity: Frozen Winter Sun Catcher
Supplies Needed: Aluminium pie dish or shallow plastic tupperware dish; yarn/string; outdoor materials such as pine, twigs, leaves, berries, etc.
Instructions: Fill each dish approximately half full with water. Allow children to drop items into their pan. Place string or yarn, leaving a loop on top for hanging. Put each dish in the freezer or leave outside overnight. When frozen, pull sun catcher out of dish and hang outdoors (it can be kept in freezer after observation if you live in a warm climate). Watch the sun shine through your sun catcher and talk about what will need to happen in order for them to melt.
Post by Crystal
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