100 Years of Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Education

100 years of Waldorf Education for Early childhood

Some thoughts from Ulrike Farnleitner, early childhood mentor and trainer

To think about of the past 100 years of Waldorf Education is in itself an amazing thought. So much has changed in the world since this was inaugurated.

I would ask, should we look for the harvest, the joys, the challenges, the achievements, the going forward and/or our future intent with all the learning and insights gained?

Working with the very young child is a privilege. When we look into the eyes of a young child, and notice their way of looking, if we take this gaze deep into our hearts, it is a deeply moving experience.

“Child, I will learn humanity from you. You show me every day where you have just come from, namely directly from the spiritual world. In that world there was no deception or lies - but rather a sense of connection to truth, love and endless possibilities.

I read this message in your eyes!

Can I, as an Early childhood educator, keep my inner promise to educate each child according to their individuality with my best intentions? All of today’s demands regulations, policies, procedures, curriculum, stresses, alongside my personal challenges - will these impact my work with you, dear child? You have chosen to be in my care, your angel and the kindergarten angel accompanies you daily, and whispers to me with good ideas to support you accordingly, if I can manage to take the time and harness the willpower to listen to their messages. Your family is convinced that you are wonderful, and so am I. I gladly ensure that I am worthy that you may learn through imitation.

Can I help to bring your innate skills to light despite whatever hindrances you were born into, an environment that might, or might not, see and support who you truly are? I promise not to get stuck in judgements and worries when I fail, but to maintain a positive outlook and an inquiring mind to find help. I will educate myself in observing even the smallest details, so that our relationship can be built on trust and confidence.

I know that you need movement and time in Nature, and to enhance the free self-directed play that is so important in Waldorf education, I will offer you living and lively songs, poems, ring games so you have fun.

In the last 100 years there has been so much research written, compiled and tested. How lucky I am to find the right answers for my professional search and for my heart that is with you. Yes, I will apply my learning and development in your service, dear child, so that you grow in love and protection with all your endeavors to meet the adventures on your path. In my service to you, child, I believe I become an advocate for childhood.”

Children these days need to be seen for who they truly are, perceived with heart warmth, and given the chance to find the freedom of choice to become fully themselves.