Montessori Preschool Cultural and Geography Studies: The Continents

We shall walk together on this path of life, for all things are part of the universe, and are part of the universe, and are connected with each other to form one whole unity.

—Maria Montessori
To Educate the Human Potential.

Young children are eager to learn about the world; they soak up information like little sponges. In the Montessori preschool classroom, children discover their relationship to other humans through stories, cultural celebrations, and the enriched cultural curriculum and materials. I so enjoy introducing the beautiful Montessori Sandpaper Globe and Colored Continent Globe to the children, as they are always mesmerized by the beauty of each of the globes as well as what they symbolize.

Montessori Cultural and Geography Studies: The Continents

Earlier in the week my four-year-old Montessori student Jordan asked if he could have a lesson with ‘the Earth,’ and pointed to the Montessori Colored Continent Globe. He carefully carried the globe to a mat and gently placed it right in the middle.

We had a few other children join us; it allowed for a great discussion about the continents, and we reinforced the names of each by singing the Continent Song.

Jordan was very interested in knowing which animals live on each continent, so we placed the world puzzle map beside the globe, along with a basket of animals. One by one, we placed the animals on their respective continent. Jordan made a comment about Australia being surrounded by water on all sides, and was especially interested in knowing how the kangaroos and koalas of Australia would visit the panda bears in China if they aren't good swimmers … the logic of a four-year-old is priceless!

This year long series looks at the experiences of teachers, parents, students, and Montessori education itself, as we follow a student through his first year at a Montessori Preschool. Montessori Insights and Reflections of a Preschool Child’s First Year is a collection of useful stories, tips, and information that have arisen from one real student's Montessori journey.

Bree — NAMC Tutor & Graduate

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 Tuesday, March 15, 2011.