Geography

One of the many gifts a Montessori education often brings is a life-long enthusiasm for geography. Geography helps children place themselves on Earth, fostering care for the rivers, forests, oceans, and peoples. Physical geography focuses on the features of Earth's environment. Political geography studies how humans have adapted to the land, emphasizing settlement and activity.

Geography is the most all-encompassing subject in the Montessori "cultural curriculum." It creates the foundation for understanding the oneness of the human family, recognizing the basic needs that all people share while appreciating the diversity of how different cultures satisfy those same needs. (From: MontessoriServices.com)

Following are helpful resources and ideas to use at home with your child:

• Ultimate Guide to Montessori-inspired Geography Activities for Preschoolers (livingmontessorinow.com)

• The Joy of Geography (www.montessoriservices.com)

• Monterey Bay Aquarium (The aquarium uses live cams for virtual touring)

• Virtual Yosemite (Tour Yosemite National Park with your child in amazing detail)

• Matching Names to Continents (From: The Home School Den)