Mandala at Montessori
Montessori Blenheim ignites intellectual interest and allows children to perpetuate curiosity and propel forward to further explore all the natural wonders of our world. Through the prepared environment, kaiārahi offer authentic opportunities for children to connect to their environment. To foster a love and appreciation of their surroundings and support a deeper understanding of the ‘big ideas’ that underpin all life on earth.
Acknowledging children’s enthusiasm to discover rich and diverse cultural concepts is important as it enables their endeavours, regardless of the limit of kaiārahi understanding and knowledge. Respect for the Diversity of People and Cultures acknowledges the unique gifts, contributions and perspectives of individuals and groups, reinforcing the value of participatory decision-making and collaborative action. Each week we acknowledge the rich culture and history of one of our diverse contributing whānau and prepare learning experiences bringing to light some of the important cultural concepts that are embraced and celebrated.
Montessori Blenheim children recently explored Mandalas – a geometric design that holds a great deal of symbolism for Hindu and Buddhist cultures. It is believed that by entering the mandala and moving towards its centre, you are guided through the ‘cosmic process’ of transforming the universe from suffering to joy and happiness. Montessori believes ‘We shall walk together on this path of life, for all things are part of the universe, and are connected with each other to form one whole unity’. This concept is represented through the symbolism of Mandala and through the circular nature of the designs. The children reflected on their connection with nature through their own designs. We engaged in rich discussions around the feelings that stirred within them – a sense of balance, peace and calmness. Their designs parallel the cycles and rhythms we find in nature, the seasons, moon phases, tides and indeed every living cell.
We believe that a cultural education is important at a young age. So that our children grow up in a world full of acceptance of diverse groups of people. With an inclination to serve the greater humanity and interdependence of nature, fully realising their place in the world. An education that embraces culture and offers the keys to the world. It provides the child with sure footing to follow in pursuit of his own cosmic task and bring purpose to his life by contributing in some unique way to the world.
In doing so, children are empowered and their learning embraces all aspects of hauora. Children who are attuned to their natural path of development, actualise their potentialities. They are guided by the laws of nature that give rise to an urge that compels them to explore and learn through their own active experience. Children’s optimal learning transpires through tangible experiences, using their hands as an extension of their mind to amass knowledge. This spontaneous activity generates a stronger and more resilient mental capacity and begins to holistically shape children’s personalities.
Story supplied by Montessori Blenheim.