Children’s Habitat Project
Our children are not only to become “citizens of the world” but of the Earth, Dr. Maria Montessori’s vision of “Education and Peace” includes a peaceful interconnected relationship with the natural world. The staff and parents of Maple Tree Montessori have made a commitment to, in every way possible; facilitate this relationship, this interdependence that constitutes the web of life. We are fortunate to have a variety of outdoor habitats surrounding our school that are available for observation, exploration, study, and incorporation into our program, and into the child’s own habitat.
“The land is where our roots are. The children must be taught to feel and live in harmony with the Earth.”
Dr. Maria Montessori
These areas: woods, wetlands, gardens, prairie, and ponds require very little help to be accessible and usable. Paths, animal feeding gardens, feeders, observation, creative play and exploratory equipment and materials will open this world to the child’s experience and encourage a reconnection with the natural world. The inner life and holistic, balanced development of the child depends upon this connection. Comprehensive awareness will be enhanced by classroom materials designed to compliment and impart an outline of understanding, concrete to abstract. Studying biomes, and the plants, animals and people that cohabitate within them, the child gains insight into interrelated aspects of life. Recycling, conservation and composting complete the holistic appreciation of our total interdependence, an appreciation that is necessary for our sustainability and is a part of our responsibility, as citizens of the Earth.
We need help in many ways with this project:
- Labor
- Fundraising
- Donation of Materials
If you would like to participate in any way please see the sign up sheets at our front counter, talk to other parents to raise awareness, help with fundraising efforts. We have an opportunity and a responsibility to provide a wonderful experience of life for our children. Something they may be lacking, a connection, a memory that warms and inspires. If you have forgotten, take a moment to recall your own childhood memories of outdoors or read “My Side of the Mountain” again to reawaken that explorer connected with nature that lies deep within you. There was a time when nature was openly and easily explored and experienced, help us to recreate that adventure. Please see our links to learn more.
“How often is the soul of man – especially in childhood – deprived because he is not allowed to come in contact with nature”
Dr. Maria Montessori
