The Waldorf Classroom
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The Waldorf curriculum emphasizes the importance of an aesthetically pleasing environment, use of natural materials, and time for children to experience the natural world.
A Waldorf classroom environment is designed and organized to be aesthetically pleasing, inspiring, and “nourishing to the senses” (Trostli, 1998). Materials are attractive, engaging, and colorful. Most are open-ended, like paints, clay, or blocks, as Steiner felt that didactic materials (like those found in a Montessori classroom, or a puzzle, for example) limited a child’s imagination (Edwards, 2002). Imaginary dramatic, creative, and exploratory play is encouraged, as are many activities throughout the day that foster oral language. Followers of the Waldorf approach believe that the intentional teaching of reading and writing is not necessary until the age of seven.