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What does sustainability mean as part of the Montessori approach?
When we talk about sustainability in early childhood, we are referring to an approach to education and childcare that emphasises fostering a sense of responsibility, awareness, and care for the environment, society, and future generations. Sustainability in this context encompasses various dimensions such as social, environmental, and economic aspects, with the aim of fostering a balanced and harmonious relationship between people and the planet.
Embedding sustainability in the youngest generation is crucial for several reasons that extend beyond the immediate impact on individual children.
Community in Montessori practice
Whilst Montessori is often associated with individualised learning and self-directed activities, the concept of community plays a significant role in her approach. Montessori emphasised the interconnections of individuals and the importance of creating a supportive social environment for children. Community is embedded in Montessori environments through:
- Mixed-age classrooms
- Social development
- Grace and courtesy
- Community responsibilities
- Conflict resolution
- Sense of belonging
- Cultural awareness
Montessori recognised the importance of community in the development of the whole child. The social environment within the Montessori classroom is intentionally designed to promote collaboration, mutual respect, and a sense of responsibility, contributing to the holistic growth of each individual within the context of a supportive learning environment.
Local and wider communities
In Montessori practice, fostering an understanding of both local and wider communities is integral to the holistic development of children. The Montessori philosophy encourages educators to provide experiences that help children connect with the world around them, such as:
- Cultural studies
- Community studies
- Community helper activities
- Geography and mapping
- Field trips
- Nature exploration
- Community service projects
- Collaborative projects
- Storytelling and literature
- Community celebrations
By incorporating these practices into the curriculum, educators can help young children develop a sense of belonging, empathy, and responsibility within both their local community and the broader global context. Montessori education aims to cultivate well-rounded individuals who appreciate the interconnectedness of all people and the importance of contributing positively to the world around them.
Children’s voice, rights and empowerment
The Montessori approach places a strong emphasis on fostering children’s voice, rights, and empowerment by recognising their individual capabilities and respecting their autonomy. Montessori education addresses these through:
- Respect for individuality
- Freedom within limits
- Follow the child
- Freedom of choice
- Mixed-age groups
- Active participation
- Intrinsic motivation
- Development of practical life skills
- Advocacy for children’s rights
- Promotion of self-reflection
Montessori empowers children by affording them with the freedom to explore, make choices and actively participate in their own learning journey. By respecting their individuality, fostering independence, and promoting a sense of responsibility, Montessori aims to nurture confident, capable, and empowered individuals who are prepared to engage with the world around them.
Environmental sustainability
The Montessori philosophy inherently supports eco-friendliness and sustainability in early childhood through various principles and practices. Montessori promotes this through:
- Respect for the environment
- Nature-based learning
- Practical life activities
- Recycling and composting
- Sustainable materials
- Global awareness
- Promotion of independence
- Focus on long-term impact
- Connection to seasons and cycles
- Educating and empowering future stewards
Montessori views children as future stewards of the earth and by fostering a love for nature, a sense of responsibility, and an understanding of sustainable practice, Montessori education aims to prepare children to become environmentally conscious individuals who contribute positively to the world.
Key takeaways
- Children want to be active participants in their own learning journey
- The prepared environment facilitates a child’s learning
- Early childhood educators can create a learning environment that not only promotes the wellbeing of children but also contributes to a more sustainable future through social, economic and environmental sustainability.
Critical considerations
- Have you considered your role as an early years educator in educating for sustainability?
- Are you familiar with the SDG’s and the United Nations Rights of the Child? (See further reading below).
- Does your environment empower young children and promote independence?
Explainer
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) – The SDG’s are global commitments set out by United Nations focused on ending poverty, protecting the planet and promoting peace (Their World, 2024).
References
Their World, 2024. Sustainable Development Goals. Available at: https://theirworld.org/resources/sustainable-development-goals/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA5L2tBhBTEiwAdSxJX8A1fFfGTwMrot9OQbY6oKgw8Et9ADS8Ne6NxHyu7XHNUxvA_Fg0WBoC-j4QAvD_BwE Date accessed: 26th January 2024
United Nations, 2024. Sustainable Development Goals. Available at: https://www.globalgoals.org/goals/ Date accessed: 26th January 2024
United Nations, 2024. 2030 Agenda. Available at: https://sdgs.un.org/2030agenda Date accessed: 26th January 2024
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