Learning to read the Waldorf way–delayed teaching of reading and writing–is probably the most controversial aspect of Waldorf education. When I was growing up, I wasn’t taught to read until the 1st grade, but in today’s world when even babies are being taught to “read”, a Waldorf (inspired) parent can start to have doubts…I know that there were times when I did.
My daughter told me it was okay to write this, but she was a “late” reader. Up until 3rd grade, she struggled to read–even though I know that she had an extremely high desire to read. She began to get very discouraged and frustrated. My daughter’s class teacher was amazing though and helped us all to be patient. We kept reading with her every night and embraced a very dedicated movement regimen (building proprioceptive strength)–which hard science now is verifying that it helps open up brain pathways.
Almost like a miracle, my daughter suddenly started reading–really reading–in the past year. And…she LOVES it. She’s currently reading a thick, 700 page book–the 4th book in a series. It’s gotten to a point where we have to force her to stop reading at night and turn out her light. At a holiday sleepover with a fellow Waldorf friend, I became worried because the girls were “too” quiet. When I went to check on them, they were lying by the Christmas tree totally engrossed in their books. It was so endearing…
I guess that sometimes learning to read the Waldorf way takes a leap of faith.
Twitter: camilleta
says:
I went to a Waldorf and Montessori inspired school and was a late reader. But when I did start learning to read, I learned very quickly. I don’t think pushing kids to read earlier and earlier does them any good. I love reading and writing now, I do both all the time! I can even speed read.
I believe kids better when they learn out of interest instead of being forced!!
Camille recently posted..Can’t Believe My Baby Is FOUR!
Twitter: camilleta
says:
kids DO better*
Camille recently posted..Can’t Believe My Baby Is FOUR!
Hi Camille,
Thanks so much for sharing your story. My daughter was a little hesitant to share “her” story, but I’ll let her know that there are many others–like you who have the same story. Many thanks and have a great weekend. Lori
I had a very similar experience with my Nicholas. He couldn’t read and couldn’t read and couldn’t read and I was really despairing and then bang! it was like flipping a switch. He went from struggling with easy readers to reading the entire Harry Potter series in 6 weeks. It’s amazing what giving them time does.
Annette recently posted..Waldorf Wednesday #21
Thanks so much for sharing Annette. It’s good to know that others have had the same experience. Thank you for visiting…Lori