Last week, we highlighted the Montessori method of education. We got emails asking us to highlight Waldorf schools in the country. Waldorf education, also known as Steiner education, is based on the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, the founder of Anthroposophy.Its mode of teaching strives to develop pupils' intellectual, artistic, and practical skills in an integrated and holistic manner. The cultivation of pupils' imagination and creativity is a central focus.Individual teachers and schools have a great deal of autonomy in determining curriculum content, teaching methodology, and governance.*sourceHere's why you should consider getting your kid(s) a Waldorf education:

• Children can learn at their own pace
• Lots of outdoor time
• Kids learn to live a tech-free life, at least in the classroom
• Much more emphasis on creativity and the arts than other schools
• Children are given a lot of individualized attention
• Most schools allow many opportunities for parent involvement

How does the Waldorf education system compare to that of the Montessori system?

• Waldorf schools usually have distinct grade levels that children advance through; Montessori classrooms often combine different age groups together in one classroom.
• Waldorf schools usually have one teacher that follows the students from grade to grade; Montessori schools usually have different teachers for each classroom group.
• Both Waldorf and Montessori emphasize learning through play; Waldorf's approach is often more imaginative, whereas Montessori emphasizes "play as work."
• Waldorf believes in nurturing the individuality of children, but takes a more teacher-based approach to learning than Montessori, which often allows children to plan their own curriculum.

Here are Waldorf schools in Kenya you can consider:Nairobi Waldorf SchoolPerhaps the most recognised Waldorf school in the country. They admit children from ages 2-17. They have campuses in Lavington and Karen. They emphasize wholistic education and cater to kids with their age-specific needs. They aim to bring out the best of all aspects of the child by harnessing the imagination. Call +254 722 823 463 for more information.Waldorf WoodlandsWaldorf Woodlands school along Nandi road in Karen was founded in 2017. They serve students aged 18 months to 6 years in their Kindergarten, and Primary 7 years to 14 years from 1st to 7th Grade in their Primary school section. They offer a wide range of activities for kids who spend most of their time learning outdoors. Give them a call on +254727524850  to request a school tour on their open day Saturday January 30th 2021.Rudolf SteinerStarted in 1989 with one of the founders being Nani Croze of Kitengela Glass, the Rudolf Steiner school along Magadi way is considered one of the earliest Waldorf schools in the East African region. Kids at this school spend a lot of time outdoors. They even have an organic farm in the school compound that the kids tend to at designated times. Call +254 722830549 for more information.Little Mountain Village Little Mountain Village in Nanyuki recognizes that children pass through distinct stages of development. Each segment of the curriculum corresponds directly in content and presentation to the stages of the growing child. Subjects and skills are introduced at the time when the child is most receptive to learning them. Subjects are learned holistically, not in isolation. Their curriculum uses an interdisciplinary approach, and carefully integrates academic, artistic and practical activity. They're currently admitting new students. Call  0768766745 to book a tour.

*Image: Little Mountain Village Nanyuki