Phases of Childhood

The author of this book tells us that our children cannot become happy, wise, and skilled adults unless their education?from the very beginning?take into consideration the development of body, soul, and spirit. Drawing on the educational ideas and philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, Goethe, and Schiller, the author describes the three main stages of child development and the genetic and biographical potential revealed at each stage. He goes on to explore the practical application of these insights as an educational method in harmony with the child's developing relationship with the surrounding world.

Bernard Lievegoed (1905-92) was a paediatrician, educationalist and management consultant. He was founder of the NPI which pioneered new approaches to business management internationally.

'This book has been a standard text and has provided student teachers, therapists, parents and many others with an overview of child development from an anthroposophical perspective. I have been saying for years that it should be updated and now this has happened. This book is quite simplay a 'must'. -- Martyn Rawson, Steiner Education, September 2005