"Free to Learn" gives a picture of stress-free childhood, exciting waays of seeing children, recognises the crucial roles of parents and teachers, and above all it values and respects the child. It is a book for our times" Sally Jenkinson, Alliance for Chilhood, author: "The genius of play"

A guide to the principles and methods of Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood education. Lynne Oldfield draws on kindergarten experience from around the world with stories, helpful insights, lively observations and pictures. She invites the reader to explore Steiner Waldorf kindergartens. Here teachers and parents believe that children's early learning is profound, that childhood matters and that the early years should be enjoyed, not rushed through. The book addresses the following issues: how do kindergartens enable healthy child development?; what is "movement based learning"?; creative play - why is it so crucial?; how do children learn through imitation and rhythm?; why is nourishing the senses important?; and when are children ready for school?

A guide to the principles and methods of Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood education. Lynne Oldfield draws on kindergarten experience from around the world with stories, helpful insights, lively observations and pictures. She invites the reader to explore Steiner Waldorf kindergartens. Here teachers and parents believe that children's early learning is profound, that childhood matters and that the early years should be enjoyed, not rushed through. The book addresses the following issues: how do kindergartens enable healthy child development?; what is "movement based learning"?; creative play - why is it so crucial?; how do children learn through imitation and rhythm?; why is nourishing the senses important?; and when are children ready for school?

Lynne Oldfield is a kindergarten teacher at The Lindens, Stroud, and Director of the London Waldort Early Childhood Teacher Training Course. Her daughter Rachel works as an artist and illustrator

2002-06-25 Free to Learn

I bought this book initially because I want to become a teacher, but I was not sure which kind of education method I wanted to take on. I was immediately so inspired about a method that makes a difference to so many lives and communities all over the world.
I am going to be a Steiner Teacher! I am so enthusiastic that I give it to friends mothers-to-be and friends that already have children. I appreciate the focus on imagination, creativity and art, which are vital for the emotional growth of the children, who are lead by example by the teachers with the support of the parents. This is a learning method for the children, the teachers, the parents and the communities involved in the process of alternative education. It also gives a taste of the Steiner Education work around the world. My boyfriend suggests this book to his patients (he's an Acupuncturist, Osteopath, Lecturer) and to parents at his seminars. It gives you an idea of how extraordinary this method is and what kind of impact will have on our children and communities. These are the people that will transform the world and from the book you can get their commitment and we can be part of this transformation! Fantastic, well written and, like the method itself, it flows, so it is good even for busy mums and dads!