Below is concise and easy to read table of comparisons between Steiner and mainstream education. The words and the table below are taken From The Waldorf School of Philadelphia’s website and originally from the Spring Garden Waldorf.

When parents are researching private schools, the myriad of options and different educational philosophies can sometimes be overwhelming. Many prospective parents are considering transitioning their children from mainstream school into Waldorf Education. And so, the question becomes, “What exactly is the difference between my child’s current experience and Waldorf Education?”

One might generally summarize the differences in this way: Waldorf Education puts high value in art, critical thinking, and creativity and does not pursue academic instruction before the age of seven. Mainstream school puts a high value on standard and measurable academics, with a focus on math and reading starting at age five.

But this does not shed much light on the multi-layered and nuanced approaches of each system. In an effort to clarify, Spring Garden Waldorf School has created this chart describing similarities and differences in each educational system. But, for true clarification about these methods and their appropriateness for your child, visit your local area Waldorf school.