THE FOUNDATIONS OF MENTAL HEALTH IN RELATION TO THE WALDORF CURRICULUM: CLASS 1 TO 7 2026JUN
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
With emphasis on developmental milestones
such as the ‘the Rubicon’ and addiction prevention.
With case studies of common mental health presentations.
One-day CPD training for teachers, doctors and therapists
on 6th June 2026 at Temple Lodge, W6 9QL, London
“Prevention is better than cure.” — Erasmus (13th century)
Waldorf education has the potential to be profoundly health-promoting, offering a truly salutogenetic approach to child development. The foundations of lifelong mental health are laid early, shaped by the quality of interactions between the growing child and their environment. This one-day CPD training explores how educators can consciously support these foundations and, going one step further, learn to recognise early presentations of mental health imbalances.
We will examine the development of school-aged children — from Class 1 to Class 7 —through an anthroposophic lens, considering how the Waldorf curriculum is designed to meet the evolving needs of the child at each stage. We will also explore key developmental milestones — such as the “Rubicon” — and how careful observation and thoughtful support during these transitions can strengthen long-term wellbeing, prevent addictive patterns, and learning capacity.
Using real-life case examples, we will look at common mental health presentations in this age group, including:
Anxiety
Restlessness
Compulsive or obsessive behaviours
Why This Matters
Those working with children in schools and kindergartens are uniquely placed to help shape environments that nurture emotional resilience and mental health.
By understanding developmental needs and recognising early signs of imbalance, educators, therapists and school health professionals are empowered to respond skilfully in ways that foster the well-being of children now and into the future.
COST: £55 for a full day. If you would want to come, but the costs are preventing you, please contact us: info@waldorfschoolhealth.org
Reading material: To be announced.
Optional Reading:
Chapter 4: The picture of the human being and its significance for a health-promoting education. pp. 52-70.
Chapter 9: The yearly milestones of development and their resonance in the Waldorf curriculum, pages 146-165.
Rudolf Steiner: Soul Economy (2003)
Lecture 8: The Waldorf School, pp 117-134.
Lecture 9,10,11: pp. 135-130.
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Look forward to seeing you!
Dr Hedda Joyce & Chia-Li