ABSTRACT
This chapter explores what kind of observational practice is most supportive in the ongoing efforts to solve the riddle of the individual child. It discusses the concept of objective observation and how the Steiner Waldorf practitioner tries to develop this faculty through exercises. Children at play, when that play comes from their own initiative and is not guided by the adult, are especially worthy of careful observation. The chapter looks at how this observation might be done, and at what might lead to a deeper understanding of what children really needs from us. This deeper task, usually done with colleagues, is called child study and is a particular feature of the work of the Steiner Waldorf practitioners. The chapter shows how both formative and summative assessment is used in the Steiner Waldorf setting and how the practitioner adapts to working with current regulations.
