We begin our study of social studies by looking at the world as a whole. Children are first introduced to the ideas of earth, land, water, hemispheres, and continents. Once they have developed a global perspective we explore our local region. Boxes containing a variety of items from each continent give the children a concrete link to peoples in other lands.

• The children share responsibility for care of the classroom, which fosters a sense of community.
• The Montessori approach recognizes that social development is a gradual, ongoing process. The classroom frees the child to choose group or independent activities for their needs. Social interaction that respects the rights of others is nurtured.
• The mixed age environment provides a natural model for social development. This setting offers many opportunities for cooperative learning.