Children with Special Needs: Rudolf Steiner's Ideas in Practice

A concise, illustrated introduction to Steiner's ideas on the education of children with special needs. These insights have led to the creation of special schools, communities, and villages throughout the world, collectively known as the "curative education movement." An important part of this network is made up of the Camphill schools and communities, which are found in some 20 countries worldwide.

RUDOLF STEINER (1861–1925) became a respected and well-published scientific, literary, and philosophical scholar, particularly known for his work on Goethe’s scientific writings. At the beginning of the twentieth century, he began to develop his earlier philosophical principles into an approach to methodical research of psychological and spiritual phenomena. His multifaceted genius has led to innovative and holistic approaches in medicine, philosophy, religion, education (Waldorf schools), special education (the Camphill movement), economics, agriculture (biodynamics), science, architecture, and the arts (drama, speech and eurythmy). In 1924 he founded the General Anthroposophical Society, which has branches throughout the world.

MICHAEL LUXFORD worked in art therapy until joining the Camphill Pennine Community in 1971, where he specialized in working with disturbed adolescents. He is now tutor on the Youth Guidance Course, which is attended by youth workers from all over the world.