Nature provides one of the biggest driving forces of curiosity and exploration while offering rich sensorial experiences for children. For this reason, nature has always been an integral part of the Montessori learning process. Montessori education draws a deep connection between nature and childhood development. Children come to appreciate nature and all that it has to offer.
The Montessori Philosophy
Dr. Maria Montessori considered the outdoor environment an extension of the indoor classroom. According to her philosophy, the natural world provided endless possibilities for experiential learning. “Only through freedom and environmental experience is it practically possible for human development to occur,” she wrote in The Absorbent Mind.
The Montessori Method stresses immersion in nature because of its effects on the growth of the whole child. According to the method, nature enriches the life of each child by supporting physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development.
By increasing a child’s interactions with the natural world, Montessori guides and Montessori parents are promoting the child’s development as a young naturalist. Spending more time in nature will also influence the child to lead an environmentally responsible lifestyle throughout childhood and into adulthood, as well.
In a Cosmic Education
Dr. Montessori stressed the interconnectedness between humanity and nature. “The land is where our roots are,” she wrote. “The children must be taught to feel and live in harmony with the Earth.”
In her explanation of cosmic education, Montessori emphasizes that the child should understand that they are part of a greater universe. By going outside and learning from nature firsthand, this profound understanding can be achieved.
“When the child goes out, it is the world itself that offers itself to him. Let us take the child out to show him real things instead of making objects which represent ideas and closing them up in cupboards.”
How you can apply it at home
As Montessori parents, you can continue this cosmic education outside of the classroom, too. Here are just a couple of ideas:
- Take your child on nature walks in or around the woods or beach (depending on where you live).
- Visit the nearest botanical garden or zoo together, and encourage them to keep nature journals and take photos of anything they see that catches their interest.
Through these activities, your child will become more connected with nature, and begin to understand their place in the universe.