Why Waldorf Works: A Neuroscientific View for Aotearoa
Dr. Regalena “Reggie” Melrose, a clinical psychologist and international speaker, presents compelling neuroscientific support for Steiner Waldorf education. In her article Why Waldorf Works, Dr. Melrose explains that key elements of Waldorf—holism, play, and nature—align with how the brain develops and functions best. These insights are now confirmed by 20 years of neuroscience research, offering powerful affirmation of Steiner’s holistic, developmentally appropriate approach.
Melrose describes the brain as triune—comprising the sensory brain (brainstem), the feeling brain (limbic system), and the thinking brain (neocortex). These develop sequentially, not simultaneously, and in response to environmental experience. This understanding undermines the conventional “school readiness” model, which prematurely targets the neocortex through early academic pressures, often to the detriment of children’s wellbeing.
Steiner Waldorf education, by contrast, prioritises sensory and emotional engagement in the early years, building strong neural foundations for later intellectual learning. Rather than rushing into cognitive tasks, tamariki are given time to crawl before they run—literally and figuratively. In Melrose’s words, Waldorf “nourishes the sensing, feeling parts of the brain,” preparing the child for later academic success.
This approach resonates deeply with many in Aotearoa, where a bicultural emphasis on hauora (wellbeing) and holistic education is already embedded within Te Whāriki, our early childhood curriculum. Furthermore, Waldorf’s reverence for play and nature mirrors Māori principles such as kaitiakitanga (guardianship of the natural world) and supports mauri ora—a thriving life force.
Play, especially unstructured and imaginative, is another essential component. Melrose cites research showing that play-rich environments support better cognitive and social outcomes than academically focused ones. Likewise, nature is shown to optimise arousal levels for learning, reduce stress, and foster creativity—something increasingly rare in today’s digital, fast-paced world.
While access to Steiner education may be limited for some in Aotearoa, Melrose urges all educators and whānau to advocate for child-centred, brain-aligned learning environments. As education reform gains traction here too, her message is clear: when we understand how the brain truly works, we can better honour the needs of our children—through play, through nature, and through a truly holistic lens.
Original work by Dr. Regalena “Reggie” Melrose. Read more here.