How can you create a less hurried, more rounded learning environment  for your child in a fast-paced world? The Steiner method is one of the most established educational philosophies that allows children to discover the world at their own pace, and in many ways it can be seen as a form of Slow Education.

Not every child can enjoy the benefits of a full Steiner education, but its basic principles extend far beyond the classroom, and can be used by parents to help children learn and grow at home.

The Steiner method essentially lets children take the lead in where they want their learning to go, giving natural aptitudes and interests the chance to develop naturally. It sits at odds with the idea that early specialisation breeds academic success, and aims to develop children’s physical, emotional, intellectual, cultural and spiritual needs equally.

There are many ways that this philosophy can be put into practice at home, but a few important guidelines are:

Let your child be a child. Let him or her enjoy the richness of childhood without feeling the need to grow up too fast. Some parents worry if their children seem less mature than their peers, but unless there is a definite cause for concern, such as not developing speech within a normal age range, then they are probably just enjoying this precious time that’s over much too quickly for all of us.

Answer your child’s questions. Many parents tire of their children’s constant questioning on every small detail of life, but this natural curiosity is where learning starts, and it should be nurtured wherever possible. If an answer is not within your capabilities, take your child to the library and help him or her find the answer.

Think about the five principles of the Steiner method and make sure that none of these areas are neglected: physical, emotional, intellectual, cultural and spiritual.

If you’d like to know more about the principles of Steiner education, Lynne Oldfield’s Free To Learn is a useful title, available on Amazon.

Image: Kevin Krejci

Named after Betty Blythe, a silent movie star and one of Hollywood’s earliest sex symbols, the little cafe with its Twenties-style waitresses is a haven of originality, great food and community spirit.

With plenty of home-made cakes and sandwiches on offer, including delicious afternoon tea with freshly baked scons, cucumber sandwiches and truffle chocolate brownies, Betty Blyhte is the perfect place to relax and indulge.

If you fancy, you can even enjoy their handmade goodies without leaving your home by ordering one of their hampers. The “I’d love you for Breakfast” one is delivered right to your door bringing you fresh croissants and juice, fresh bread and everything for a great cooked breakfast, from eggs, bacon or smoked salmon for £45.00, perfect for Valentine’s!

For Hammersmith locals, or those who don’t mind to head out West, Betty Blythe has some fantastic events on offer from mums and toddler music sessions, to kid’s tea parties, where your little ones can raid the dressing up box and learn new skills such as jewellery making.

The Betty Blythe Society – open to any one who fancies an inspirational evening of talks – meets regularly to share skills and listen to speakers discuss  topics ranging from crafts to etiquette.

Betty Blythe – Fine Food Pantry
73 Blythe Rd. Brook Green, London W14 0HP

Tel: 0207 602 1177
Open 8am till 7pm ish

Closest Tube Stations: Shepherd’s Bush