Understanding of the World

Our aim is not merely to make the child understand, and still less to force him to memorise, but so to touch his imagination as to enthuse him to his innermost core.

Maria Montessori

Children are naturally curious about the world around them.

This area of the curriculum provides activities that allow children to gain an appreciation science geography and culture.

When looking at geography, Montessori children usually begin by exploring the solar system and looking at the map of the world and its continents, and the people and animals who live there. Physical features such as rivers and mountains are explored, as are celebrations from different cultures.

We invite and encourage children to appreciate our natural world and adopt a sense of responsibility for Planet Earth in all areas of our curriculum.

We have a Nature table, which allows children not only to explore different treasures that they have found, but it also allows them to think creatively about composition and patterns. We explore the biology of plants and the human body.

The scientific exploration of magnets, colours and the properties of water are part of everyday life in a Montessori nursery classroom. We learn about life cycles such as observing caterpillars and their transformation into cocoons, and after much waiting, the beautiful butterflies.