Floris Books

• By an acclaimed author in his field
• Challenges the ideas of our modern scientific culture
• Far-reaching consequences for how we understand and relate to the natural world

Our scientific culture, which gave birth to modern technology, is in desperate need of change. Science has largely meant groups of specialists working in separate disciplines, seeking answers to narrowly defined questions which have little or nothing to do with the living world. The last few years, however, have seen a shift to a more integrated, holistic approach to how we view and understand our world. 

There is still much work to be done. Most modern people have come to accept a fragmented culture whereby science isolates us from the natural world. As a result, we feel we can govern it and dominate it as we please. Brian Goodwin, acclaimed author of How the Leopard Changed Its Spots, argues for a view of nature as complex, interrelated networks of relationships. He proposes that, in order for us to once again work with nature to achieve true sustainability on our planet, we need to adopt a new science, new art, new design, new economics and new patterns of responsibility. We must be willing to pay nature its due: to recognise what we owe to the natural world and resist exploiting it solely for our own ends.

This is an ambitious, wide-ranging book with far-reaching consequences, and will be essential reading for all those interested in how nature and human culture can co-exist in the future.

A profound interpretation of John's rich pictorial language, addressing the issue of spiritual development.

Bock interprets St John's rich pictorial language, often found harsh and mysterious, showing that John is dealing with the universal problems of spiritual development.

This is not just a detailed commentary on the Apocalypse, but a profound and encouraging examination of human needs in today's world. It shows how we can read the Book of Revelation to understand Christ's position as leader through danger in the present and the future."

A comprehensive textbook for doctors undertaking courses in anthroposophical medicine.

It includes chapters on the philosophical foundations of anthroposophical medicine; developing dynamic perception; polarities; metamorphosis; working with the texts of Rudolf Steiner; and the anthropsophical path of inner development.

An exploration of the cosmic origins of human beings and the evolutionary laws which govern their development.

Armin Husemann applies musical principles as a method of gaining insight into the structure of the human body and the forces that work on it. He draws on our experience of music and explain the physiological and anatomical relationships in the body, as well as illuminating the spiritual influences which determine physical development.

Drawing on artistic exercises set out by Rudolf Steiner to develop a better understanding of these influences, the book explores the cosmic origins of human beings and the evolutionary laws which govern their development.

Gordon Strachan, author of Jesus the Master Builder (Floris Books), explores the magnificent structure of Chartres Cathedral, and examines the influences on the medieval master builders.

Using Chartres as a starting point, Dr Strachan suggests that the origins of the Gothic style may lie in Islamic architecture. He goes on to consider how the experience of a particular architectural space affects us, and how sacred geometry works.

Beautifully illustrated, this is an inspiring and informative book for anyone interested in religious architecture and spirituality.

A retelling of the stories of Norse mythology as recommended for the Steiner-Waldorf curriculum Class 4 (age 9-10). Includes myths on Creation, Odin and Mimir, Thor and Thialfi, Idun, Sif and Loki.

In 1921, Rudolf Steiner gave a series of lectures on curative eurythmy. Over the subsequent years, as advice was sought in particular cases of illness, he added to the initial exercises and indications. For the benefit of those who did not attend the original courses, Dr Kirchner-Bockholt published the basic principles, along with an authentic collection of Steiner's advice.

This is Dr Kirchner-Bockholt's comprehensive handbook. It is both a guide for curative eurythmists in their work, and an introduction to the therapy for the general practitioner.

Charles Kovacs characterizes different plants, from fungi, algae and lichens, to the lily and rose families. He describes the parts of each plant and their growth cycle.

It is recommended for Steiner-Waldorf curriculum Classes 5 and 6 (age 10-12).

A treasure trove of stories from the ancient world, retold by one of Ireland's greatest storytellers.

A treasure trove of stories from the ancient world, retold by one of Ireland's greatest storytellers.

This classic collection of myths and legends includes stories from all the major ancient civilizations, and some lesser known ones: Egypt and Greece, and Babylon and Rome, alongside Ireland and Iceland, India and Finland, China and Japan, Mexico, Peru and Polynesia. The tales range from creation stories to heroic epics, and feature Isis, Gilgamesh, Hercules and Pandora, to name but a few.

This edition faithfully preserves Padraic Colum's original language. His lyrical rhythm and melody represent the very best of traditional storytelling.

Includes Padraic Colum's essay, 'The Significance of Mythology'.

• Pioneers a new Science of Nature
• Offers striking new arguments against GM technologies
• Proposes startling solutions to our energy needs
• Foreword by David Bellamy

Austrian naturalist Viktor Schauberger (1885-1958) was far ahead of his time. From his unusually detailed observations of the natural world, he pioneered a completely new understanding of how nature works. He also foresaw, and tried to warn against, the global waste and ecological destruction of our age. 

This book describes and explains Schauberger's insights in contemporary, accessible language. His remarkable discoveries -- which address issues such as sick water, ailing forests, climate change and, above all, renewable energy -- have dramatic implications for how we should work with nature and its resources.

This book, for use by Steiner-Waldorf teachers, includes stories of the founding of Rome, the early battles with Carthage and Hannibal, Julius Caesar and the conquests of Gaul and Britain, Antony and Cleopatra, and the decline and fall under the Huns and the beginning of the Dark Ages.

It is recommended for Steiner-Waldorf curriculum Class 6 (age 11-12).

This is a comprehensive guide to the basic movements we can observe in the sky. Schultz describes the daily movement of the stars from different parts of the earth (including southern hemisphere throughout). Included are the sun's pattern of the day and of the year, the moon's various periods, nodes and eclipses, as well as the planets' apparent movement and loops, conjunctions and transits.

The appendix contains tables of periods and rhythms, and a guide to important occurrences to the year 2010.

"When we paint with colors we should paint in such a way that we are conscious that we are calling forth life from what is dead."
Rudolf Steiner

A vital factor in a child's development is the stimulation of active imagination and creativity. Here are ideas for encouraging self-expression through watercolor painting.

Essentially practical, this book is based on Goethe's color theory and shows that painting with children is more than just a form of self-expression. Müller encourages and attempts to understand children's fantasies through their artwork.

This guide for parents and teachers to painting with watercolors covers preparation, color-stories and poems, painting moods of nature and the seasons of the year.

Weaving is a creative and practical art that's great fun for all ages and abilities. This original book shows you how to weave a wonderful variety of objects -- special jewellery, a pretty bag, juggling balls, a snug scarf and even a scary spider in its web.

Some of the items have handy everyday uses -- a phone pocket, a mug warmer and a coin purse -- and some are just great fun -- fairyland mushrooms, a dreamcatcher and an Easter hen.

Each enjoyable project is accompanied by easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions and colour photos showing children how to weave with a variety of materials from traditional wool, to rags and plastic bags.

Ideal for parents or teachers, the projects are most suitable for children aged 7 to 14 years old.

A retelling of Greek mythology and ancient history as recommended for Steiner-Waldorf curriculum Class 5-6 (age 10-12).

This welcome new addition to Charles Kovacs' work contains legendary stories of mythical heroes and historic figures from the dawn of western civilization. Through the fearless deeds of Heracles, Theseus and Odysseus to the Golden Age of Athens and the conquests of Alexander the Great, the narrative vividly portrays the journey from the mysteries of antiquity to the birth of modern medicine, science and philosophy.

An overview of world history from the eighteenth to twentieth centuries, including the French, American and Industrial Revolutions.

Kovacs chooses pertinent stories which create a tapestry showing the development of humankind from medieval times, when every person had their place in the hierarchy of society, to the awakening of individuality in modern times.

In the Steiner-Waldorf Education curriculum this period of history is taught in Class 8 (age 13-14).

The most comprehensive collection of lyric poems and prayers from the Gaelic tradition of oral poetry, gathered from the highlands and islands of Scotland.

The Carmina Gadelica is the most comprehensive collection of poems and prayers from the Gaelic tradition of oral poetry. Gathered by Alexander Carmichael, in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, 'from Arran to Caithness, from Perth to St. Kilda'. The poems had been handed down through the generations in a living oral tradition. This tradition and the way of life which sustained it have now disappeared but these poems and prayers live on to remind us of the faith of the unknown poets who composed them.

Previously only available as a bilingual text in six volumes, this one-volume edition in English only is an important contribution to the wider awareness of Celtic literature. John MacInnes' introduction puts the poems in the context of the life and folklore of the Gaelic community.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is most famous for his work on color theory, but he was also an accomplished all-round scientist, studying and writing on anatomy, geology, botany, zoology and meteorology. This book draws together, in Goethe's own words, his key ideas on nature, science and scientific method.

Goethe believed that we should study our world and nature as people at home in it, rather than removedly, as if we were aliens from another planet. He adopted a qualitative approach to science at odds with Newton's quantitative methods that were so popular in his day. His is a sensitive science which does not ignore our relationship to nature.

The extracts in this book are fascinating and essential reading for anyone who feels that we've lost our spiritual connection to nature.

Parsifal (or Sir Percival) was a Knight of King Arthur. His story is told by the troubadours of France and Germany, notably Chrétien de Troyes and Wolfram von Eschenbach. The Parsifal story stands between the past age that looked for secrets of the spirit and the coming age that was going to search for the secrets of matter.

In this engaging retelling of the legend of Parsifal, Charles Kovacs's critical commentary offers Steiner-Waldorf educators an unrivalled insight into teaching the story of Parsifal and will aid in lesson planning.

Based on Kovacs's extensive teachers' notes, this informative book places the Parsifal story in its greater social and historical context.

In the Steiner-Waldorf Education curriculum this story is recommended for Class 11 (age 16-17) as a way of introducing world literature and one of the central problems of our time -- the imperative to learn to ask the right questions.

This is a detailed account of Rudolf Steiner's view of children, and the role education must play in their successful development.

Gilbert Childs examines and explains the curriculum of Steiner-Waldorf schools, showing how their unique teaching practices take a holistic view of the child. He looks particularly at issues such as creativity, imagination, and intellect, and how the schools try to produce rounded, responsible young adults.

He concludes that our approach to the education of our children is an issue of the utmost urgency for the future of our society.

In the 1960s, Iona and Peter Opie observed that although many books had been written about how children should play, none had been written about how they actually played. To fill the gap they carried out an exhaustive survey, through the decade, of the games that children 'in fact play' when aged roughly between six and twelve years of age, and when outdoors -- and usually when out of sight.

The result was their classic work Children's Games in Street and Playground. It records games played in streets, parks, playgrounds and wastelands by more than 10,000 children across the UK from the Shetland Isles to the Channel Islands, although the majority of the information comes from children living in big cities such as London, Liverpool, Bristol and Glasgow.

In all, around 125 games are described in detail, including the rhymes and sayings children repeat while playing them, together with the different names they are called. Brief historical notes are also included where relevant.

There are important lessons to be learned from this book about giving children the time and physical space to be themselves with other children.

Previously published as Children's Games in Street and Playground, Volume 1 and Volume 2.

Rhythm and repetition, together with example and imitation, are pillars on which early learning is based. Freya Jaffke applies these simple principles in practical and sensible ways.

She describes children's play in a Steiner-Waldorf kindergarten setting, and provides tried and tested advice on this important stage of development.

This book includes sections on Planning the day; Festivals; Rhythms; Materials; Educating the Will; Imagination; Spontaneous and Planned Play; Example and imitation of adults; Stages of development; From crawling to contrariness; Work and play; Craft and handicraft; Creating a protective environment; Hyperactive and inactive children.

In modern medicine, for all its brilliant achievements and progress, there is little concept of 'healing'. As human beings have become more separated from nature, many disciplines, including medicine, have lost sight of the bigger, holistic picture.

In this book, Ralph Twentyman, a homeopathic physician for many years, studies the workings of the human organism in conjunction with nature and the larger world around us. He explores the background and effects of various key elements in health and healing, ranging from sulfur and lead to silver, fungi and sepia, and also considers specific diseases such as migraine, asthma, cancer and AIDS.

He argues that as we stand, we will never fully be able to address and treat such illnesses without new understandings being forged between mechanical medicine, psychology and homeopathy.

Are biodynamic wines any better than other wines? Are biodynamic methods, much talked about but little understood, scientific or not? What's the difference between organic and biodynamic?

The popularity and availability of biodynamic wine has grown significantly in the last few years, with more and more vineyards investing in biodynamic production. If you've ever wondered whether biodynamic wine is really worth it, and what all the fuss is about, this book is for you. In 35 clear and pertinent questions, expert biodynamic wine producer Antoine Lepetit explains what's so special about biodynamic wine.

Shows how through working consciously and actively on our own life-story, we can build bridges to other people in a way that develops a new understanding for the lives of others.

While the modern world is rapidly making us into 'global citizens', at the same time we experience increasing isolation as individuals in our own society. There is a pressing need for us to develop new forms of relationship with family and society.

Through working consciously and actively on our own life-story, we can build bridges to other people in a way that develops a new understanding for the lives of others.

The ideas and methods presented in this book are the result of many year's therapeutic work with groups and individuals. The life-stories described are the authentic stories of participants in the courses and workshops.

Investigates why Steiner-Waldorf schools attach such importance to art in education and why Rudolf Steiner himself brought artistic training into all fields of further education.

Agnes Nobel examines the importance of art in the development of the child and looks for some answers to the vital question : what is education for? She goes on to investigate why Steiner-Waldorf schools attach such importance to art in education, and why Rudolf Steiner himself brought artistic training into all fields of further education.

She describes Steiner's picture of the developing child, his views on the imprint of early experience on the child's whole being and the importance of living relationships and community in the Steiner-Waldorf school. She shows how these ideas are expressed in the curriculum of the schools.

Businesses around the world are facing rapidly changing economic and social situations. Business leaders and managers must be ready to respond and adapt in new, innovative ways.

The authors of this groundbreaking book argue that people in business must adopt a 'holonomic' way of thinking, a dynamic and authentic understanding of the relationships within a business system, and an appreciation of the whole. Complexity and chaos are not to be feared, but rather are the foundation of successful business structures and economics.

Holonomics presents a new world view where economics and ecology are in harmony. Using real-world case studies and practical exercises, the authors guide the reader in a new, holistic approach to business, towards a more sustainable future where both people and planet matter.

An unusual perspective on the cultural and political milieu in existence at the time of the emergence of Christianity.

Events such as the Persian Wars are examined with a view to understanding the spiritual struggles raging between those forces that wished to promote a newly emerging human consciousness, based on independent thought and a growing sense of egocentricity; and those forces that wished to preserve the authoritarian structures of the past, which were rooted in now decadent mystery practices.

In particular the role of Essenes receives prominence, given that Bock was writing prior to the discoveries of the Dead Sea Scrolls. In the second half of the book, Bock investigates the esoteric biographies of some of the key figures surrounding Jesus Christ, and demonstrates how their destinies were affected by the encounters with the being of Christ.

Geometry is both elegantly simple and infinitely profound. Many professionals find they need to be able to draw geometric shapes accurately, and this unique book shows them how.

It provides step-by-step instructions for constructing two-dimensional geometric shapes, which can be readily followed by a beginner, or used as an invaluable source book by students and professionals.

Most popular astrology simply tries to link personality types to one particular sign of the zodiac. However, the zodiac is an organic whole whose twelve individual creatures are intimately connected. Frits Julius shows that, by studying the characteristics of the zodiac signs, and contrasting each sign with its opposite, we can gain a much greater insight into their true nature.

He then shows how these characteristics impact on human nature, and presents some fascinating ideas about the psychology of individuals and social groups. Ultimately, he demonstrates how knowledge of the zodiac can be used to positively strengthen a community of people.

This is an essential introduction to the practice of Rudolf Steiner's ideas in education.

The authors explain the innovative approaches to child development and education as found in Steiner-Waldorf classrooms around the world. They discuss the practical aspects of teaching, the celebration of seasonal festivals, the stages of child development, early education, later years, environmental education, and much more.

Waldorf Education is one of the best and most accessible introductions to this unique and effective form of education. It is an ideal gift for parents who are exploring alternative methods of education for their children.

A meditation on the twelve sacred nights between Christmas and Epiphany.

The twelve holy nights between Christmas and Epiphany, the 6th of January, are a wonderful time of year for spiritual meditation and deepening.

In ancient Norwegian folk legend, in the darkness of winter, Olaf Åsteson experienced an initiation into the great secrets of existence. His experience helped him to shoulder responsibility for his task here on earth, and gave him renewed vision and decisiveness.

Frans Lutters has led many workshops on this theme, and his insights are collected in the commentary and meditations in this book, alongside the text of the Dream Song.

Working with the sacred nights provides an inspiring opportunity to start the new year with revitalized consciousness and enthusiasm.

A practical and inspiring book which introduces 'conscious parenting' to help make any family home more harmonious.

This practical and inspiring book introduces 'conscious parenting' as a new way of helping any family home become more harmonious.

Lou Harvey-Zahra, an experienced parenting coach and teacher, wants to help parents develop calm and happy children. Drawing her inspiration from a Steiner-Waldorf background, she offers candid, relevant and funny tips and advice for taking a clear look at family life, identifying what's not working, and exploring new ideas for improving parent-child relationships.

The book addresses issues such as rhythm and routine, children's play, storytelling and crafts, as well as delving beneath the surface to discuss children's twelve senses, and four temperaments. In addition there is a sure-to-be popular section on creative discipline, plus tips from Dad and wonderful suggestions for making ordinary family moments extraordinary.

This uplifting parenting guide teaches how to raise happy children and create happy homes. An accessible, readable book which parents will appreciate for its down-to-earth, realistic approach and insightful counsel.

Can we imagine a world without flowers? Flowers are beautiful, offering us delight in their color, fragrance and form, as well as their medicinal benefits. Flowers also speak to us in the language of the plant form itself, as cultural symbols in different societies, and at the highest levels of inspiration.

In this beautiful and original book, renowned thinker and geometrist Keith Critchlow has chosen to focus on an aspect of flowers that has received perhaps the least attention.   This is the flower as teacher of symmetry and geometry (the 'eternal verities', as Plato called them). In this sense, he says, flowers can be treated as sources of remembering -- a way of recalling our own wholeness, as well as awakening our inner power of recognition and consciousness. What is evident in the geometry of the face of a flower can remind us of the geometry that underlies all existence.

Working from his own flower photographs and with every geometric pattern hand-drawn, the author reviews the role of flowers within the perspective of our relationship with the natural world. His illuminating study is an attempt to re-engage the human spirit in its intimate relation with all nature.

When a child is sick, parents need clear, reliable information to help them take action quickly. This fully comprehensive guide to child health and wellness, draws on anthroposophic medicine, combining conventional treatments with complementary therapies.

A Waldorf Guide to Child Health includes:

• First aid guidance for help in emergencies
• Treatments to relieve common complaints such as pain, fever, vomiting, allergies and asthma
• Recommendations to deal with common illnesses such as chickenpox, glandular fever and ear infections
• Advice on coping with serious disorders such as meningitis, diabetes, chronic illnesses and hospital stays

Including current medical advice alongside tried-and-tested tips, this book empowers parents to look beyond the surface symptoms and better understand their child as a whole, in body, soul and spirit.

Based on the bestselling A Guide To Child Health, this essential reference guide has been fully revised and updated for today's parents.

The relationship between The Christian Community and the Anthroposophical Society is complex and often misunderstood. Christian Community priests work out of an understanding of anthroposophy, and it was undoubtedly Steiner's theological lecture courses which led to the formation of the movement. Nonetheless questions remain, which Peter Selg examines closely in this unique book.

• Steiner's work emphasizes the importance of finding the spiritual in everyday life. So why did he help found a 'Sunday church'?
• In his lectures, Steiner spoke about a 'spiritual communion' without physical matter. So why is there any need for a sacramental communion with real bread and wine, as practiced in The Christian Community?
• In a much-quoted lecture after the founding of The Christian Community, Steiner said that anthroposophists should have no need of the new religious movement. But on another occasion he said he wished greatly that the movement should succeed. How can these be understood and reconciled?

This long-overdue book is a significant exploration of Steiner's legacy which should have far-reaching implications for mutual understanding and cooperation between The Christian Community and the wider anthroposophical world.

Throughout the ages, people have experienced the life-giving and healing forces in water. Water is integral to life, and surrounds us in nature and in our own bodies. But not all water is the same. Water can carry good energies, and bad energies. How can we understand water enough to know the difference?

Theodor Schwenk, the renowned author of Sensitive Chaos, founded an institute for water research in the Black Forest in Germany. He developed the Drop Picture Method, which displays the characteristics of water clearly for the non-specialist. Today, the Institute continues his work and here presents momentous findings about the quality of our drinking water, groundwater, spring water and river water.

Stunningly illustrated in color, this book offers a unique insight into the world of water.

Reincarnation -- by which human beings return to live on earth -- is a concept most often associated with eastern philosophies rather than Christianity. In this fascinating book, Friedrich Rittelmeyer explores reincarnation from a Christian point of view, arguing that it has a place in modern Christian thought.

Reincarnation can sometimes be exploited to justify daydreams or imaginary past glories, or can harden into a legalistic reckoning of vice and virtue. Rittelmeyer's approach is different: joyous, essentially Christian, and full of a sense of freedom as he struggles to find a path through the pitfalls on the way to a Christ-filled acceptance of reincarnation.

Drawing on the work and inspiration of Rudolf Steiner, Rittelmeyer was able to encounter the cosmic truth of reincarnation and, wrestling with human doubt on every level, courageously grounds it in human reality.

Takes mindfulness one step further�a key guide to using your brain to fix your body.

Our bodies have an amazing capacity for repair and regeneration, healing a broken ankle or grazed knee. The power to heal exists within all of us, but few people learn how to support it and harness it in our times of greatest need -- illness and disease.

In this unique book, experienced alternative therapist Josef Ulrich argues that drawing on our innate spiritual creativity, authenticity and self-will can lead to active healing, where the patient is no longer a victim of their condition but a vital contributor to their recovery.

With plenty of case studies, exercises, observations and check lists, this readable and practical book sets out to empower us to boost our immune system and, in partnership with conventional treatments, give us the best chance of healing.

Get your kids engaged with nature in this great seasonal resources for time-strapped parents.

Race handmade boats, build an insect hotel and create wildflower Easter eggs, all while learning about the natural world – whatever the weather.

This practical and brightly illustrated book is packed with indoor and outdoor crafts and activities, plus fun facts, to entertain and engage curious children during the spring and summer months.

All the activities encourage an exploration of nature, from streams and moss, to butterflies and dandelions. Children will love finding out about the natural world through play and creation whether at home or in the classroom.

This wide-ranging book will provide inspiration for parents and teachers working with children aged four and up. Most activities can be enjoyed both individually and in groups.

What do we, as parents, need to give our children to ensure they grow up to be happy, well-balanced and resilient people?

Parenting tutor and mother of two Christiane Kutik tells us that, above all, children need their parents to give them strong values to help them find their way in life.

Many of us consider values to be an old-fashioned concept but Kutik suggests that by fostering twelve vital values, parents can provide their children with all the tools they need to flourish, to discover the worth of non-material rewards and to have an emotionally enriching life.

Parenting with Values encourages parents to reflect on which values they want to pass on to their children. In twelve short, easy-to-digest chapters, Kutik discusses the essential qualities that children need, and explains how each one is learned and passed on from parent to child.

The twelve essential values Kutik identifies are:

• Self-esteem
• Compassion
• Honesty
• Respect
• Sensibility
• Humor
• Security
• Capacity to manage conflict
• Independence
• Interest in the world
• Soulfulness
• Connection the natural world

This engaging and readable book is filled with practical everyday examples of values in action. It will provide inspiration for parents who wish to proactively encourage positive development in their children.

The ability to imagine is at the heart of what makes us human. Through our imagination we experience more fully the world both around us and within us. Imagination plays a key role in creativity and innovation.

Until the seventeenth century, the human imagination was celebrated. Since then, with the emergence of science as the dominant worldview, imagination has been marginalized -- depicted as a way of escaping reality, rather than knowing it more profoundly -- and its significance to our humanity has been downplayed.

Yet as we move further into the strange new dimensions of the twenty-first century, the need to regain this lost knowledge seems more necessary than ever before.

This insightful and inspiring book argues that, for the sake of our future in the world, we must reclaim the ability to imagine and redress the balance of influence between imagination and science.

Through the work of Owen Barfield, Goethe, Henry Corbin, Kathleen Raine, and others, and ranging from the teachings of ancient mystics to the latest developments in neuroscience, The Lost Knowledge of the Imagination draws us back to a philosophy and tradition that restores imagination to its rightful place, essential to our knowing reality to the full, and to our very humanity itself."

Looking for an outdoor hobby to engage your children and encourage them to be crafty and creative? Wood carving is not only easy to learn and fun to do, but almost everything you need to get started can be found for free -- right outside your door!

Together you can craft a tumbling tower game, a racing car toy, a dolphin necklace or even a handy coat hook! With more than fifty activities at levels for beginners and up, children can create something useful, beautiful or fun (often all three!) out of wood.

Learning wood carving not only helps to improve children's concentration, creativity and dexterity, it's also invaluable in teaching them how to handle knives safely.

Adventurous children will be thrilled to learn woodland skills, while nature-loving parents will enjoy rediscovering the lost art of whittling with their kids.

'At school, we believe education should touch the whole child. This includes the physical, emotional, spiritual, social and cognitive aspects of the child's life. We teach children quietness as a skill to reflect and recharge their inner lives. Lorraine Murray helped us on this journey.'
-- Sheila Laing, Head Teacher

Stress and behavioral disorders are common in children, who are increasingly bombarded by marketing campaigns, faced with school and peer pressure, and able to sense the stress of adults around them.

Mindfulness and meditation can help children recognize and cope with these pressures, releasing bad feelings gently and giving them simple tools to deal with tension and stress throughout their lives. In this practical and inspiring book, Lorraine Murray shows parents, teachers and youth workers how to lead fun and peaceful meditation sessions with children.

Lorraine explains a variety of different approaches, from meditations around daily activities for busy families, to ideas for group 'quietness' sessions in schools. She provides fun, tactile rhymes for toddlers to help them calm down before bedtime, and suggests ways to help teenagers reduce anxiety. She goes on to explain how these methods can help children with ADHD and those on the autistic spectrum, giving a range of case studies.

This book is suitable for complete beginners, or those with some experience of relaxation and meditation techniques. It offers all the advice needed to lead sessions with children, whilst encouraging the reader to adapt and develop their own ways of helping children to feel calmer, happier and more peaceful.