At the heart of the educator’s role is the ability to create and sustain a classroom environment where children and their learning can truly flourish. As educators we need capacities as facilitator, mediator, advocate, counsellor, therapist, planner, artist, and so much more. We strive to inspire in children their natural enthusiasm and engagement for learning within a calm, cooperative social setting. Yet, we recognise that this ideal often feels distant from the growing challenges we face in our classrooms today.

In this weekend workshop, we return to the foundations of all meaningful social interaction—beginning with ourselves. We will revisit key aspects of child development through the lens of Rudolf Steiner’s insights and explore the elements of teaching that nurture respectful collaboration, joyful learning, and the healthy unfolding of each child, both individually and within the group.

We will consider how teachers can:

• Balance the energy needed for individual initiative and classroom activity with the quiet inner receptivity essential for learning
• Support children’s self-expression while guiding them toward healthy social behaviour
• Recognise and bring forth the unique strengths of children at each stage of development

We will also explore ways to:

• Deepen our presence, warmth, and understanding so that our relationships with children of different ages can grow and thrive
• Cultivate practices—both for ourselves and for the children—that support centering, calmness, and transformation
• Respond to challenging behaviours in age-appropriate, constructive, and healing ways

Throughout the weekend, we will work in a supportive and collegial atmosphere where you can share experiences, reflect on challenges, and engage in meaningful conversation about the realities of today’s classroom. Our hope is that you will leave with renewed insight, confidence, and inspiration to continue building a healthy and harmonious learning environment.

Participants will receive a certificate of professional development hours upon completion.