At the heart of Montessori’s philosophy lies a deep connection to nature. The outdoors inspires a sense of curiosity and exploration in children they can’t find anywhere else. Dr. Maria Montessori believed that exposure to nature was crucial in child development. “The land is where our roots are,” she wrote. “The children must be taught to feel and live in harmony with the Earth.”
Montessori schools understand that children who enjoy nature go on to become healthier, more socially aware adults. Sustainability is a core belief at the Austin Children’s Academy, and our commitment to the environment is reflected in everything we do. In this blog post, we’ll explore how Montessori schools prioritize eco-friendly habits.
Environmental Projects
Children engage in outdoor projects that allow them to actively contribute to their surroundings. Whether it’s cleaning up outside or creating wildlife habitats, these projects instill a sense of stewardship in children. By involving them in hands-on initiatives, Montessori schools empower students to make a tangible impact on the environment. These projects not only provide valuable learning experiences but also nurture a sense of empathy and responsibility toward nature.
Outdoor Play
The Montessori method promotes independent play and learning, and children in Montessori schools get lots of opportunities for outdoor play. With spacious playgrounds and access to nature, children can engage their body and mind. Whether they choose to play tag with their friends or let their imagination run free, giving kids time to play in the outdoors helps them bond with nature. At Austin Children’s Academy, our two playground areas include open areas for nature walks, sports, picnics, and other activities. By allowing children to regularly connect and enjoy the outdoors, we help foster a lifelong love of nature.
Sustainability Practices
A key part of encouraging children to be more eco-friendly is by modeling the habits we want them to use. Schools demonstrate sustainable practices in many ways. Montessori teachers and school staff model sustainable habits with everyday tasks. From energy conservation to waste reduction, we integrate sustainability into all our daily operations. The Austin Children’s Academy participates in recycling, reusing, and upcycling programs, just to name a few of our green initiatives. In addition, our campus is energy efficient, with plans to use solar power in the future.
Committing to Our Planet
The path to a more sustainable future starts with our children. The Montessori model of learning enables children to navigate how they fit into this world—and how they can help it flourish. Helping our children learn to value their relationship with the earth will lead to a kinder, more mindful generation of adults. The Austin Children’s Academy cares deeply about the environment and its impact on our students. Fostering an appreciation for nature is just one of the many ways we support them. If you’re curious about how Montessori schooling can benefit your child, contact us or schedule a tour of our eco-friendly campus!
