At Willowsong Steiner Kindergarten, we strive to see each child in their wholeness, not through fixed labels or behaviours, but by recognising the qualities that live in them and how they express themselves in the world.
In Steiner philosophy, the four temperaments - choleric, sanguine, phlegmatic, and melancholic, offer a way of understanding different ways children experience life, relate to others, and move through the world. These are not categories to place children in, but helpful ways to meet the child more deeply with insight, empathy, and care.
“One must strive to understand each child as an individual, not by outer appearances, but by inward feeling.”
— Rudolf Steiner
Sanguine – Light, social, curious
Joyful and lively, the sanguine child moves easily between activities and loves exploring the world through the senses. Gentle rhythm, beauty, and meaningful repetition help them deepen their experiences and grow inner steadiness.
Choleric – Energetic, strong-willed, purposeful
This child often shows leadership qualities and is full of drive. They respond well to purposeful work, clear boundaries, and being given tasks that allow them to contribute meaningfully to the group.
Phlegmatic – Calm, steady, content
The phlegmatic child enjoys comfort, predictability, and observing the world from a safe place. They are supported by a warm, familiar rhythm and are gently drawn into shared moments through songs, meals, and quiet stories.
Melancholic – Sensitive, thoughtful, inward
This child often feels things deeply and shows early empathy. They are nurtured through beauty, kindness, and the opportunity to care for others such as helping a friend, watering plants, or tidying the table with care.
A Note on the Soul Journey
In Steiner education, we speak of the soul journey as the unique and unfolding path each child takes as they grow, not just physically, but emotionally, socially, and spiritually. We understand that each child brings their own temperament, gifts, and challenges, shaped by their ancestry, environment, and inner world. Our task as kaiako is to support that journey gently, to hold space for the child to grow in their own time and their own way.
At Willowsong, we don’t try to “correct” temperament. We seek to understand, honour, and gently guide each child, meeting them with respect, warmth, and rhythm. In doing so, we support not just behaviour, but the deeper becoming of the child.
