In this episode, we discuss mental health in the classroom. Our students are experiencing an epidemic, suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, depression, body image disorders, and ADHD. We are losing our kids, and they are losing their imagination, creativity, and connection to their individuality, their peers, and the natural world. We are more obsessed with telling kids what to think than teaching them how to think for themselves.

My wife introduced me to fantastic pedagogies at different stages of development, from RIE (Resources for Infant Educating) to Peaceful Parenting to Waldorf Education. Today's conversation will focus on Waldorf Education in particular. The Waldorf pedagogy emphasizes the development of the whole child - including the intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of their being.

Dietmar Kasper is my guest expert on the topic. We cover how Waldorf works, its founder Rudolph Steiner, how kids transition to and from, as well as some common misconceptions. A Waldorf teacher in Neuwied, Germany, Dietmar’s been teaching over 20 years in mathematics, physics, and offering courses in anthroposophy and Waldorf education. He also travels the world spreading the teachings of Waldorf Education and supporting Waldorf communities through his "Teach and Travel" program..