Info to update David Elkind's theories?

[AK_MtnAnSith]

When trying to introduce parents to the idea of Waldorf education-specifically the idea of not rushing a young child into "early academic learning", delaying reading, letting a toddler/pre-schooler just PLAY, I often point them in the direction of David Elkind's books.  These parents often return with,"Yes, but those book are so OLD.  There is lots of NEW information touting the benefits of early learning, organized sports, etc."

My question is are there any CURRENT updates, studies, books, etc.  That support Elkind's/Steiner's theories?  Many people are turned off by the whole Don't teach your child to read until "The changing of the teeth" thing!  They want facts and theories based in science and presented as such.  I'm a warrior for Waldorf!  Lol....but I need some "ammunition"!!!

Any help is greatly appreciated!

And Happy Holidays!!!!!!!

[AK_MtnAnSith]

To clarify:David Elkind-author of The Hurried Child and Miseducation-Preschoolers at Risk

[babygirlsmama]

Hi, I know of a few things that are more current that may be helpful and are easy for mainstream folks to access and digest:

--The recent New York Times article about Waldorf Education (you can google it)

-- the movie, Race to Nowhere is somewhat relevant

-- the Book, "The Problem with Privilige" also shows the flaws of a mainstream, academic focused culture.

Hope these help.

Babygirlsmama

[Imakcerka]

I don't know the Waldorf in essence... isn't about changing times.  I would think if they take issue with the age of the book then maybe they really are not interested in the REAL Waldorf life... 

[WindyCityMom]

Originally Posted by Imakcerka 

I don't know the Waldorf in essence... isn't about changing times.  I would think if they take issue with the age of the book then maybe they really are not interested in the REAL Waldorf life... 

This is my thought as well.  So the book was written in the late 80s- so what?  Children are not that vastly different than they were then, and if one does think of children as vastly different than then- it should be an eye opener.  

[AK_MtnAnSith]

Thanks so much for your responses!

I think the problem with the age of the book is that people are citing more current works that challenge the theories in Elkind's books.  They are of the mind that what is most currently sound is what is "right" and best for their children.  In this day and age of sound bites and lack of sustained attention...some of these parents need a quick succinct explanation for everything!  All the more reason for a Waldorf LIFESTYLE!!!