The Developmental Stages of Child Development

Each child goes through a series of developmental stages as they grow up towards adulthood. These stages are divided in seven year cycles. Early childhood is from birth to age seven. Middle childhood is from seven to fourteen and adolescence is from fourteen to twenty-one. In order to reach a child effectively and to teach successfully, it is crucial for the curriculum and teaching method to be sympathetic and guided by these developmental stages.

Early Childhood: Birth - Seven

During this stage it is all about getting the body to start walking upright and the limbs to work. The will of the child or the ability to apply him/herself in the physical world is established during this time and they do this through moving, orientating and discovering themselves in a physical world. It takes a top priority and they do this primarily through the senses. The small child also learn primarily through imitation. This is why it is so important that adults in their life must strive to be worthy figures acting in a way they would like the child to act.

Kindergartens in Waldorf Schools are warm, nurturing and sensory rich places filled with love and security - a home away from home. All activities aim to guide and encourage the child's natural inclination to learn through play, how to act in social relationships and to stimulate their imagination. These activities creates the all important foundation for intellectual, emotional and physical development later.

Middle Childhood: Seven to Fourteen

In this developmental stage the feeling life plays a major role in learning. The heart is introduced to new vistas and ways of being through imaginative and creative activities . All content is clothed in artistic form such as storytelling, drama, rhythmic movement, visual arts and music - enlivening each subject in the child's thinking, feeling and willing.

Adolescence: Fourteen to Twenty-One

At Age 14 -21, the child starts to think independently. It becomes able to examine the world abstractly and to exercise discernment, judgment and critical thinking. This journey is carefully monitored and mentored by subject teachers who are specialists in their fields.