The Child from Birth to Three in Waldorf Education and Child Care

Description Originally published in German, this volume clearly and succinctly outlines the anthroposophical view of child development from birth through age three, making concrete suggestions for how to support children’s physical, emotional, and spiritual growth in an out-of-home care setting. This English language edition is intended to inform birth-to-three programs in the United States and other countries, as well as being a resource for parents, therapists, and anyone with an interest in this special period of human life. This book is a companion volume to Developmental Signatures: Core Values and Practices in Waldorf Education for Children Ages 3-9 (WECAN/AWSNA). The second edition includes a new introduction by editor Susan Howard, new material from author Claudia Grah-Wittich, and an updated list of resources available in English. Contents Introduction by Susan Howard Educational Foundations and Objectives Focusing on the individuality Development through metamorphosis Salutogenesis and Waldorf education The special nature of learning in early childhood Supporting Development in Early Childhood Conception, pregnancy and birth The first year: achieving uprightness and learning to walk The second year: learning to speak The third year: I-awareness and thinking awaken The child’s invisible helpers Early Childhood Education and Care Establishing the relationship – the foundation of early childhood care Free movement and independent play The environment Rhythm and rituals Conditions for Infant and Toddler Child Care The impulse behind Waldorf early childhood education Standards of care for children under the age of three Basic and advanced training Rooms, furnishings and equipment Legal and financial aspects Quality assurance and collegial work Working with the parents Waorking with physicians, therapists and early childhood development specialists Working with kindergarten and school Social integration Starting a birth-to-three program within an existing institution Appendix: Quality criteria for day care centers with children under the age of three English-language Resource List Bibliography from the German Edition About the authors