Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Activities and Resources for the Montessori Classroom

… on the satisfaction of (the child’s) more spiritual needs the progress of humanity depends – the creation indeed of a stronger and better humanity. ~ Maria Montessori, To Educate the Human Potential

Montessori education centers on this one very important belief. In developing her philosophy and method, Dr. Montessori drew on her experience and education in science, medicine, philosophy, pedagogy, anthropology, and by no small measure, in life. She lived in the time and on the continent of the two great wars of the 20th century. Perhaps this is, in part, why she so strongly advocated that education is the key to peace.

As Montessori educators and parents, we embrace Montessori peace education, and look for ways to include it in the daily life of the Montessori students and children in our care. Peace education crosses all disciplines, integrating lessons in history, language, geography, and practical life.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Activities and Resources for the Montessori Classroom

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day provides opportunities to identify and explore the life and times of a human being who inspired many to individually and collectively stand up for the values that create a peaceful society and world. It also sets the stage to prepare for further related work, as we approach African American History Month in February. Critical thinking begins with exploration and expression, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day offers ample food for thought. Even at a young age, children have a strong sense of character values such as fairness, kindness, generosity, and compassion. We hope you will encourage your students to discover their own ways of understanding their own power in creating peace, through the exploration of role models like Dr. King.

The following links provide further background and lesson/activity ideas for all age groups:

• Montessori Peace Education: Martin Luther King Jr. History and Activity
• Dr. Martin Luther King, Junior - His Life, His Legacy
• Learning To Respect Each Other
• Theme: Martin Luther King Jr
• Teacher Guide To Martin Luther King Jr.

NAMC’s Five Great Lessons / Cosmic Education & Peace manual provides curriculum activities based on Dr. Montessori’s approach to nurturing young, caring and peaceful citizens.

As much as possible, NAMC’s web blog reflects the Montessori curriculum as provided in its teacher training programs. We realize and respect that Montessori schools are unique and may vary their schedules and offerings in accordance with the needs of their individual communities. We hope that our readers will find our articles useful and inspiring as a contribution to the global Montessori community.
© North American Montessori Center - originally posted in its entirety at Montessori Teacher Training on Thursday, January 14, 2010.