There’s sometimes a misconception that in Waldorf education, reading just… happens. That children are simply immersed in beautiful language and stories, and one day the words will fall into place as if by magic.
But here’s the truth: teaching reading the Waldorf way doesn’t mean we don’t actually teach reading.
It does, however, mean we teach it differently.
Beyond Boring and Dry
Reading instruction doesn’t need to feel dull or mechanical. In fact, there are so many ways to make reading alive and engaging for children:
- Reading groups with level-appropriate texts
- Novel studies that encourage comprehension and critical thinking
- Literature circles where students share perspectives
- Silent reading time for practice and enjoyment
- Independent research using non-fiction books
- Free access to lots of good books in the classroom or at home
- Reading challenges that motivate and inspire
Each of these creates opportunities for children to build both skill and a love of reading.
The Importance of Structure
Let’s face it: English is tricky. Some children will pick up reading naturally, almost effortlessly. But for most, that isn’t the case—and it’s not fair to leave them to struggle in silence. Structured reading is essential.
Starting around Class Two, formal reading instruction becomes an important part of the curriculum. This often looks like small guided groups (or one-on-one time with an adult), where children work with carefully chosen texts that match their level.
The rhythm is simple but powerful: read together, repeat, discuss. As confidence and fluency grow, the texts gradually increase in complexity until children are reading independently.
Keeping the Progress Going
Even when children are reading fluently, it’s important to keep nurturing their skills. Here are a few of my favourite approaches:
- Novel studies give us a chance to dive deeply into characters, plot, and themes.
- Silent reading time builds stamina and allows children to explore their own interests.
- Rich classroom or home libraries ensure there are always plenty of options within reach.
- Non-fiction research integrates reading into wider learning and shows children how practical and purposeful reading can be.
And then there’s one of my all-time favourites…
Reading Challenges
For Classes 4–7, I love to introduce a Reading Challenge for the year. Each child gets a printed challenge booklet that sets out an age-appropriate number of books to read. As they finish each book, they record it in their booklet and hand it in to me.
As a guide for chapter book numbers to aim for each year:
Class 4: 20 books
Class 5: 30 books
Class 6: 40 books
Class 7: 50 books
It’s simple, but it works. Children love the motivation of working towards a goal, and I get to keep track of their reading choices and progress. It also opens up wonderful conversations – “What did you think of that book? Would you recommend it to a friend?”
Reading challenges turn reading into something social, visible, and celebrated, rather than a chore.
Why It Matters
Reading is a foundation for all future learning. In Waldorf education, we want to foster not just functional literacy but a lifelong love of books. By weaving together structure, joy, and a sense of challenge, we support every child—whether reading comes easily or not.
Because while some children will learn to read “magically,” most need more explicit guidance. And when we meet them with both structure and imagination, reading becomes not just a skill, but a doorway into the world.
Do you want a copy of my Reaching Challenge printable notebook so you can use it with your children? Just enter your email below and I’ll send it straight to you!