The Seasonal Festivals in Early Childhood

This collection of articles, stories, songs, circles, and puppet plays provides thoughtful reflections on the cycle of the year and on the nature of each season, along with many practical ideas and materials to bring into the classroom. Many of the beautiful festival celebrations we may think of as 'Waldorf' originated not in the first Waldorf schools, but in the European cultural and religious tradition in which they were embedded. This presents a challenge for us today as we both strive to renew our celebration of the seasons of the year, bringing the healing forces of a rhythmic life to the children, and work to welcome and include fully every child and their family, whatever their background. This book has contributions from many experienced Waldorf educators, including Freya Jaffke, Joan Almon, Holly Koteen-Soule, Steve Spitalny, Helle Heckmann, Nancy Foster, Barbara Klocek, Cecilia Karpoff, and Marjorie Thatcher.