The cultural curriculum in the Montessori classroom is a window into the universe at large. By exposing each child to the cultural area of the classroom—Geography, Science, Botany, Zoology, and History—we invite them to develop an awareness of how their world came to be and cultivate an appreciation for all the things, big and small, which coexist in it.
Through this hands-on exploration, using their own curiosity and drive, children learn about:
- natural resources (land/air/water; sink or float; parts of a plant; how to grow a plant),
- the seasons (seasons sorting cards),
- the elements on our planet (magnetic vs. non-magnetic)
- the flora and fauna (vertebrates vs. invertebrates; extinct vs. non-extinct)
- the vastness of our world (the solar system; the colored globe; the continent maps)
- the concept of time (calendar; telling time).
Through these and other Montessori works, we help children to discover our natural world and embark on their journey to becoming “cultured” people. Cultured people are grateful for the balance in the universe and recognize man’s role in maintaining this balance. And thus, they create the beautiful possibilities of a more peaceful world.
Take a look at our facebook page to see the ways in which The Westmont Montessori School celebrates culture!
