SUPPORTIVE EDUCATION COURSE: Teaching Children with Developmental Disabilities
About this ebook
Steiner emphasises the individuality and inherent dignity of every child, maintaining that effective support must arise from a deep understanding of the relationship between body, soul and spirit. Alongside his exploration of child development and human nature, he presents detailed case studies, discussing conditions such as epilepsy, intellectual disability, behavioural difficulties, memory disorders and kleptomania. Throughout, he gives practical indications for educational work, medical support, therapeutic movement, speech exercises, artistic activities and the cultivation of an appropriate inner attitude on the part of the educator.
A recurring theme is the close connection between education and healing. Steiner calls upon educators to develop powers of observation, empathy, responsibility and self-knowledge, seeing these qualities as essential for meeting the unique needs of each child.
This expanded edition, based on the revised German text and enriched with extensive supplementary materials, offers an important resource for teachers, physicians, therapists, carers and anyone interested in human development, inclusive education and the transformative potential of human-centred pedagogy.
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About the author
Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) called his spiritual philosophy “anthroposophy”, meaning “wisdom of the human being”. As a highly developed seer, he based his work on direct knowledge and perception of spiritual dimensions. He initiated a modern and universal “science of spirit”, accessible to anyone willing to exercise clear and unprejudiced thinking. From his spiritual investigations Steiner provided suggestions for the renewal of many activities, including education (both general and special), agriculture, medicine, economics, architecture, science, philosophy, religion and the arts. Today there are thousands of schools, clinics, farms and other organizations involved in practical work based on his principles. His many published works feature his research into the spiritual nature of the human being, the evolution of the world and humanity, and methods of personal development. Steiner wrote some 30 books and delivered over 6000 lectures across Europe. In 1924 he founded the General Anthroposophical Society, which today has branches throughout the world.
