Work and Play in Early Childhood

by Freya Jaffke, Christian von Arnim (Translator)

Rhythm and repetition, together with example and imitation, are pillars on which early learning is based. Freya Jaffke applies these simple principles in practical and sensible ways. She describes children's play in a Steiner-Waldorf kindergarten setting, and provides tried and tested advice on this important stage of development. This book includes sections on Planning the day; Festivals; Rhythms; Materials; Educating the Will; Imagination; Spontaneous and Planned Play; Example and imitation of adults; Stages of development; From crawling to contrariness; Work and play; Craft and handicraft; Creating a protective environment; Hyperactive and inactive children.

Genres: Education, Parenting

80 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Margaret Forsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unfortunately, I often find books by Waldorf educators to be vague and rambling.
However, I find this book to be comparatively more clear and to-the-point.
The main point of the book was that imitation is VERY strong in young children- children aged 6 and under. Basically, It is good for adults who care for children to be as calm, purposeful, and cheerful as possible- and this will influence the children to be calm, purposeful and cheerful. In my years of working as a childcare provider, I have certainly found that to be true! This book reaffirmed a lot of my experiences caring for children, so that made me feel good!

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

short concise book about leading young children through their day.
How to answer challenging questions, how to engage with unquenchable questions in a way that is appropriate for their young age without spoiling their imagination.

A great perspective in our ever more materialistically driven world.

[Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a newcomer to Waldorf theory, it is a true treat to read such a slim volume that distills the learning stages of the young child in an applicable way. Jaffke separates the age groups by babyhood, crawling to two years of age, three to five, and five to seven. The bulk of the work addresses how to inspire your child (or the children under your care) through the power of imitation, or as some may call it, positive modeling, and how the caregiver should represent his/herself to bring out the best in their charges. This work was inspiring in that it doesn’t require anything awkward in cultivating your child’s early life, but rather that you focus on creating harmony in the home/care center. As a mother of two toddlers, I was particularly impressed because Jaffke’s book inspired me in many ways, but it even inspired me to want to iron (for the good of the children, of course). For more on this book, go to http://www.waldorfbooks.com/item_2458....

[Lindsay Evermore · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll definitely refer back to this over time.