This child is generally of a heavier build, is often shy but appears comfortable. If they are getting their needs met, in other words enough sleep, a healthy diet etc. They are generally happy.
These children often appear lazy, but are merely contemplative. If they’re inspired enough they will work hard on the project until it is completed.
I have a friend who is so phlegmatic I often find it amusing. She never makes a decision in the heat of the moment. She contemplates the pros and cons of any decision for a minimum of 2 weeks. She never goes to the shop and just buys items on a whim. She always waits for a sale and then has a list of goodies from cutlery to bed sheets that need purchasing. Compare this to a sanguine temperament who generally goes to the shop with a list….leaves a good few items off and comes home with many things she never knew she needed, but seemed like a good idea at the time and really are beautiful to look at!
These children and adults make the most loyal faithful friends and companions. Once they commit to either a project or an ideal or a person, they are then committed to the end.
So again it comes down to inspiring these children, showing them a good reason why things need to be done. They then need a little while to contemplate but once they accept the task,you won’t have to worry about them not finishing. A steady rhythm works wonders for this child. As they go through their day knowing what to expect they are then relaxed and easy to be around.
I often have thought how wonderful it would be to have a child like this. I met a little boy and my daughter’s best friend as well, is phlegmatic, and they are easy children compared to the sanguine and the melancholic.
The other side of this child is that once they make a decision not to do something, boy will your work be cut out for you. They dig their heels in and that is that. Again it comes down to the right approach. Every parent knows their child best, so you know what will inspire them to do something or not. Take the time and have the patience to inspire, it will make life a whole lot easier!
I’ll post the temperament of the choleric child shortly. Remember this is based on Rudolf Steiners teaching, and is merely a hint as to your childs temperament. For more info read Rudolf Steiner’s The 4 Temperaments.
Man Blessings to you on this Windy Sunday.
Sue.xx
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Filed under: Homeschool, The 4 Temperaments, Waldorf Homeschooling on October 19th, 2008
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