ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the various environments that may make up the Steiner Waldorf early-childhood setting. The sensory experience of the child has a great significance for his or her development. For this reason, the Steiner kindergarten environment requires much careful thought and detailed attention and is distinctively different from most settings for young children. The chapter considers the effect on the young child of beauty, colour, natural materials, seasonal and other decorations, the equipment for domestic activity indoors and the complimentary environments outdoors. It describes the materials available for the children's play in the Steiner setting and discusses the adults' role as an important part of the environment. The first sight of a Steiner kindergarten room can make a striking impression on an adult visitor. Steiner kindergartens are situated in many different kinds of buildings including purpose-built spaces, church and other community halls, adapted houses and temporary structures such as yurts.
