The aim of this contribution is to present alternative approaches to education which, according to the authors, support the multi-dimensional development of the student. Traditional education based on the classroom-lesson system does not meet the needs and expectations of modern students. Teachers use outdated methods, causing students to dislike school and learning. One of the assumptions of alternative education is an individual approach to students and focusing on the development of their personality. Its main goal is to create a friendly, inspiring place that allows the youngest to develop their potential and acquire knowledge in a way that is most appropriate for them.

Education should support changing the school environment to one that is brain-friendly. The task of education should be to learn how to formulate hypotheses and seek answers independently, develop emotional resilience, and arouse the desire to explore the world. It is important that this exploration of the world takes place in a friendly and safe atmosphere, in peace and optimal conditions for development. Therefore, the best possible development of students may be influenced by the environment in which they stay, as well as the methods, techniques and teaching aids used by teachers. Such skills like: going beyond the norm, solving problems, taking risk are now required in many professions and certainly extremely useful in adult life. Both teachers and researchers are constantly looking for ways to make education more attractive, effective and, above all, student-friendly. Alternative schools, which are flourishing both in the world and in Poland, try to meet such needs.

In our presentation, we will discuss the need to make changes in education, the main assumptions of alternative pedagogy and selected examples of alternative educational approaches: Rudolf Steiner's pedagogy, Maria Montessori's pedagogy, Friedrich Froebel's pedagogy, the Dalton plan, Reggio Emilia philosophy, forest education and outdoor education. Finally, we will present the benefits and threats of alternative educational concepts.

Keywords: Alternative education, brain-friendly learning, pedagogical innovations.