Dr. Maria Montessori believed that the key to a peaceful society lay in the hands of children. She believed that giving children the tools to understand the universe and their place within it will allow them to become citizens of the world. The introduction of the child to the world begins at birth. Young children have an innate need to belong to the world around them. And this need begins with finding their place within their immediate community, their family. Following that need, the child is first introduced to the world through the language, routines and rituals of the family.

As the child enters the primary community, he begins to expand his reach to the world around him, starting with his home culture. Language is the vehicle to connect the primary child to the universe. Beginning with the Earth, the child learns about the various landforms on the planet. He learns about the different continents, starting with his own. Then he is introduced to his home country and his society. He learns about the food, clothing, music, traditions, customs and holidays of his culture. He also gathers information on the political aspects of his environment like flags and neighboring countries. Once the child is familiar with his immediate environment, he is ready to explore similar aspects of other countries and cultures.

One of the most important materials to introduce the child to the world is the geography folders. Each folder contains pictures from a particular continent showing people, animals, landscapes, towns, food and nature. The pictures are used to open up dialogue about the world as a means of provoking thought and interest and giving information. The folders assist in bringing about awareness of the similarities and differences in the world. As the child processes this information based on his interests, he begins to understand the connection between the people of the world and the universal needs of people around the world.

“An education capable of saving humanity is no small undertaking; it involves the spiritual development of man, the enhancement of his value as an individual, and the preparation of young people to understand the times in which they live.” -Dr. Maria Montessori, Education and Peace

Sincerely,

Archana