Building Empathy in the Digital Era: Why Waldorf Schools are the Future of Balanced Tech Education

Presented by Portland Waldorf School and Cedarwood Waldorf School, for Portland Monthly

In a world where parents and educators are increasingly challenged to find solutions to mitigate the harmful impacts of students’ technology use, Waldorf Education’s century-old philosophy is more relevant than ever.

Educational researchers know that children learn best from meaningful interactions with peers, teachers, parents, and other adults, so the student experience at a Waldorf school centers on relationships and human connection. As a result, Waldorf graduates are empathetic, communicative individuals with the tools to thoughtfully regulate the role of technology in their lives, which empowers them to connect deeply and authentically with the people around them.

Many schools nationwide are adopting phone-free policies, a practice Waldorf schools have championed for years. Waldorf’s conscious approach to technology prioritizes human relationships at every developmental stage, a strategy now supported by brain research highlighting the benefits of limited technology exposure.

Keep reading here to learn what a balanced technology education looks like in Waldorf schools at all ages, from preschool through high school.