In this episode, I sit down with Robyn Beaufoym an expert on Waldorf education and form drawing, Together we dive deep into the world of form drawing and its crucial role in Waldorf education, homeschooling, and child development.

Robyn shares insights into the Waldorf philosophy, explaining how it is centered around individualized education and the use of the child as a guide for learning. She goes on to describe form drawing as the drawing of repetitive symbols, shapes, and patterns, highlighting its evolution from the early grades through to middle school and its connection to geometry.

Our conversation delves into the practical aspects of form drawing, discussing the process of introducing forms to children through multisensory experiences involving movement, tactile activities, and visualization. We also explore the impact of form drawing on skills such as spatial awareness, fine motor skills, and handwriting, emphasizing its cumulative benefits for overall learning.

Listeners gain insights into overcoming resistance to form drawing, its potential to support visual perceptual skills and its practical application for adults in relaxation and mindfulness. The episode concludes with valuable resources and where to find more information on form drawing and Waldorf education.

More about our Guest

An early career as a Park Ranger, led Waldorfish CEO Robyn Beaufoy to her love of illustrating and education. Trained initially as both a public school and Waldorf teacher, she has been involved in art and education for over 25 years, including homeschooling her two children for some of that time. 

Robyn is the keeper of the creative vision held by the Waldorfish team, which serves up modern, Waldorf-inspired curriculum for homeschooling families and teacher training.  Working out of the premise that life is short (but sweet!) she empowers soul-filled teachers & families to find their JOY in teaching and making art. 

Robyn is the author/illustrator of From Here to Everywhere, a book for children and their grownups, about living our best lives and sometimes, losing someone we love. 

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In this episode you'll hear about:

Introduction to Waldorf Education and Form Drawing 

• Overview of Waldorf education as a child-centered approach with no set curriculum 
• Introduction to form drawing as a subject within Waldorf methodology 

Understanding Form Drawing and its Practice

• Description of form drawing as the drawing of repetitive symbols, shapes, and patterns 
• Evolution of forms as children progress through grades 
• The transition from form drawing to geometry curriculum in fifth grade 
• Emphasis on movement and practice rather than the end product on paper 

The Process of Form Drawing 

• Multisensory learning and the importance of movement and tactile experiences 
• Examples of activities such as drawing with chalk, finger paints, modeling clay, and drawing in the sand 
• Utilizing outdoor spaces and incorporating movement into the practice 

The Relationship Between Form Drawing and Learning Skills 

• How form drawing supports spatial awareness, fine motor skills, and spatial planning orientation 
• Integration of forms with curriculum themes and academic subjects 
• The cumulative benefits of form drawing on learning in general 

Application of Form Drawing for Children with Visual Perceptual Challenges 

• Challenges faced when introducing form drawing to older children 
• Importance of starting with foundational skills and building cumulative benefits 
• Incorporating research studies and understanding the scientific basis for form drawing 

Resources and Recommendations for Form Drawing 

• Recommended resources, including form drawing courses, articles, and books 
• The significance of understanding the "why" of form drawing, supported by research studies 
• Introducing form drawing as a mindfulness and relaxation practice for adults 

Practical Implementation and Benefits of Form Drawing 

• The importance of consistency and short, repetitive practice sessions 
• Trusting in the long-term cumulative benefits of form drawing on learning 

Links and Resources From Today's Show

• The Practical and Creative Art of Form Drawing
• Form Drawing Progresses
• Waldorf Form Drawing in Grade One 
• Waldorfish Form Drawing courses for grades 1-4
• Try a  complimentary sample lesson of Waldorf Form Drawing
• Handwriting Focus Group from Homeschool OT

Connect with Sarah Collins

• Follow Sarah on Instagram @homeschoolOT
• Join the Facebook Group: Homeschool and Occupational Therapy with Sarah Collins, homeschoolOT
• Visit the Homeschool OT Website