It's true there are some very extreme versions of the Steiner ethos, and 'naturalness' is a fundamental part of the education system
Children are educated with an awareness of nature around them, growing foods throughout the seasons - relating to the changes of life throughout the year.
Reading is not (or not in my experience) actively discouraged before the age of seven, but it isn't part of the waldorf curriculum - fine motor skills are developed and the use of water colours and crafts and woodwork skills help towards this - even in early years education.
Movement and music and a word-movement discipline called Eurithmy develop gross motor skills - and the spirit in equal measure
Emotional expression and learning through play, the freedom of the childs spirit and her/his place within nature are what I see as the basis of a Steiner/Waldorf education
Academically - Steiner children are in no way disadvantaged, I am studying at Warwick and one of the young Post Grads is from a Steiner background - her critical skills just amaze me.
I am hoping to qualify as a Steiner Kindergarten teacher after graduating from Warwick.
Addressing the idea that integration is difficult for Steiner children - I really think this depends upon the household the children live in. It's true the more outlandishly 'green' and eco warrior types lean towards a Steiner education for their children - but then I've never encountered this - all my Steiner friends are Professionals who are rebelling against the aquisitive comercialism that is rampaging through society.
PMSL at the horse and trap and artefact too