Empowering Montessori Students
March unfolds as Women’s History Month in the U.S., a time to weave tales of resilience and achievement into the fabric of education. For Montessori teachers, this offers a golden opportunity to not only delve into historical narratives but also impart the essence of Maria Montessori’s groundbreaking legacy.
Maria Montessori: A Trailblazing Journey
Maria Montessori, the first woman to graduate from medical school in Italy, overcame formidable odds to pursue her passion. Her revolutionary approach to education, marked by child-friendly environments and innovative materials, transformed the traditional landscape. In celebrating Women’s History Month, we pay homage to her unwavering dedication.
Fostering Ownership and Knowledge
Introducing Maria Montessori’s narrative nurtures a sense of ownership among students, fostering an understanding of the uniqueness of their education. Her journey becomes a compass guiding them through the philosophy that shapes their learning environment.
Women’s History Month Activities in Montessori
- Storytelling Sessions: Tailor stories of impactful women to your students’ age, igniting their curiosity and appreciation for historical figures.
- Student-Driven Newsletters: Encourage language-oriented students to craft a Women’s History newsletter, a platform to share stories and insights with families in paper or digital formats.
- Personalized Presentations: Let students choose and delve into the lives of historical or contemporary women who align with their interests. From musicians like Alicia Keys to iconic dancers like Martha Graham, the possibilities are vast.
- Community Interviews: Kinesthetic learners can connect with their community by interviewing influential women. This activity not only enlightens but also strengthens community bonds.
- Historical Timelines: For the history enthusiasts, create a timeline of pivotal events in women’s history, offering a visual journey through time.
- Artistic Portraits: Young artists can explore different mediums to create portraits of influential women, translating their admiration into creative expressions.
Individuals for Suggested Study
- Sojourner Truth: Advocate for equality
- Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony: Champions of women’s suffrage
- Shirley Chisholm: Trailblazer in U.S. politics
- Sandra Day O’Connor: First female U.S. Supreme Court Justice
- Sally Ride: Pioneer female astronaut
- Hillary Clinton: Renowned politician and diplomat
- Alicia Keys and Norah Jones: Influential musicians
Important Dates in Women’s History
- 1920: 19th Amendment grants women the right to vote
- 1942: Women serve in significant roles during WWII
- 1972: Equal Rights Amendment passes in Congress
- 1972: Title IX ensures gender equality in sports funding
Recommended Books for the Montessori Classroom
- A is for Abigail: An Almanac of Amazing American Women by Lynne Cheney
- 100 Women Who Shaped World History by Gail Meyer Rolka
- 33 Things Every Girl Should Know About Women’s History by Tonya Bolden
- The New York Public Library Amazing Women in American History by Sue Heinemann
- Black Stars: African American Women Scientists and Inventors by Otha Richard Sullivan
- The Girl Who Struck Out Babe Ruth by Jean L. S. Patrick
- Remember the Ladies: 100 Great American Women by Cheryl Harness
- Girls Think of Everything: Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women by Catherine Thimmesh
- Canadian Girls Who Rocked the World by Tanya Lloyd Kyi
- Outrageous Women of Ancient Times by Vicki Leon
- Outrageous Women of Colonial America by Mary R. Furbee
Celebrate Women’s History Month in your Montessori classroom by intertwining stories of remarkable women, igniting curiosity, and instilling a sense of pride in the uniqueness of each student’s educational journey.