Waldorf Education

Waldorf Education, also known as Steiner Education, was created in 1919 in Austria by philosopher Rudolf Steiner. It has evolved and grown since then, and now inhabits nearly every continent on Earth, with more than 1,200 schools and nearly 2,000 kindergartens in 75 countries plus more than 500 centers for special education in more than 40 countries. There are also Waldorf-inspired public schools, charter schools, and homeschooling movements. Germany, the United States, and the Netherlands claim the most Waldorf schools globally.

Waldorf Education is steeped in theories of child development, presenting content and activity based on what a child is ready to do. The Waldorf stages of childhood mirror teachings by Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget and the 17th-century father of modern education, John Amos Comenius, an early champion of universal education. Rhythm and routine are essential in Waldorf education. Children learn experientially, in classroom settings, and outdoors. The goal is to fully develop students’ intellectual, social, and emotional capacities.

READ ABOUT WALDORF EDUCATION IN THE NEW YORK TIMES

Academic and artistic learning interweave for a holistic curriculum. In addition to typical academic subjects such as science, math, reading, writing, and history, Seacoast students engage in performing arts, music, movement, and practical work that is part of the curriculum.

Beginning in grade 1, students often stay with the same teacher for years at a time, creating a synergy and understanding of your child in a consistent classroom community. Class teachers learn how each student learns best and design curriculum activities around the current roster of students. Children receive a lot of individual attention during their time as Seacoast students!