Radical Acceptance: Cultivating Belonging and Self-Worth in the Waldorf Classroom

A reflection from Class of 2029 Lead Teacher Avery Gerhardt.

When I think about the development and growth I’ve observed in my fourth graders, I recall a moment from second grade. One of the students was having a tender morning and needed a little extra care. I gave him a hot water bottle and suggested he rest in the cozy corner. Before I knew it, a flurry of second graders were asking for this “special” treatment. It sparked an important conversation about fairness and equity that has shaped our classroom culture ever since.

“Let’s talk about this,” I said. Together, we talked about how we all have moments when we need something special to get by. We explored the idea that fairness isn’t about everyone getting the same thing; it’s about everyone getting what they need. It’s difficult, but we do important work when we recognize that someone else needs something different than we do.

And though this was not a leap that those second graders could make at the time, now that they’re in fourth grade, the students understand that our differences are a tremendous strength, not a disadvantage. They’ve made a powerful step in their journey toward understanding, empathy, and self-awareness.

In Waldorf education, we embrace the individuality of each child, knowing that differences in experiences, strengths, and needs enrich our community. When we create an environment where these differences are acknowledged and valued, we build the foundation for learning together and supporting each other. For these students, this lesson hasn’t been just theoretical; it has become an integral part of how they approach challenges together.

Growing Through Challenges

This class has faced unique challenges. Because of the pandemic, the class-building work that typically happens in first grade was delayed. By second grade, they had to approach building community with awareness and intention. It wasn’t easy, but it taught them something profound: how to create a supportive, inclusive environment on purpose. I know they carry this experience with them (even if they sometimes forget) and it is a skill that they can call upon when they need it. They’ve lived it, and it’s part of who they are now.

I witness their ability to accept and embrace differences whenever a new student joins our class. Now that they’ve observed how individual differences contribute to what makes our class great, they are on the lookout for the gifts that new visitors bring. Even when new students do things in ways that they are not used to, the class finds ways to meet them with curiosity and warmth. 

Learning Together

For me, this journey with my students has been as much about my growth as it has been about theirs. They teach me as much as I teach them. This is true for the parents as well. The parents and I are working in partnership–a community of adults raising these children together. Following the students’ example, we’re learning to navigate challenges, let go of our individual perspectives, and instead focus on our united goal of nurturing these children.

It isn’t always easy and it isn’t always perfect, but by leaning into the hard moments, we become closer and more unified. This is what makes radical acceptance so transformative. It requires effort, understanding, and a willingness to embrace differences, but the results are profound. When we practice acceptance, we foster belonging and self-worth not just in the children, but in all of us.

Building a Foundation for Life

These lessons of empathy and inclusion are not just about the here and now. They are preparing our children for life in a diverse and complex world. By recognizing and honoring differences, they learn to navigate relationships with confidence and care, not always putting their own interests at the fore. They learn that fairness isn’t about comparison but about ensuring everyone has what they need to succeed.

Seeing how they have grown inspires me with confidence and hope for the future. These students have learned to build community intentionally, to celebrate each other’s strengths, and to embrace their own. These are the skills they will carry with them as they grow, and I am so grateful to be a part of that journey.