Cultural Day

Cultural Day is an extra special day at Adventure Montessori. It celebrates the culmination of our year-long study of the continents in geography. Beginning in September, we introduce our cultural studies with the formation of the earth, and present the two divisions of “land” and “water”. From there, we proceed to the study of each individual continent and explore some of the customs, native dress and foods indigenous to some of the countries in each continent. Because we have a diverse student community, culture is a favorite area of study! American parents are sometimes surprised at the number of rich family traditions celebrated within their own families; holiday traditions, Saturday morning traditions, birthdays and so on. Our families from other countries are wonderful about sharing their traditions and often will volunteer to “present” a tradition to the children during group time. For instance, one of our Moms from China graciously came and presented some traditions connected to the Chinese New Year and performed a dance using fans – beautiful! On the last school day in May, we ask all AML families to bring a native dish of food or a favorite family recipe prepared to share with others in their classroom during a 1 ½ hour lunch period. (A sign-up sheet with detailed information is posted prior to that date.) Parents and children are invited to dress in their native clothing and parents are asked to prepare a few brief statements about their country to share with the children. This event is held outside, weather permitting, under a tent. Families also bring blankets so they can eat “picnic” style. Everyone enjoys hearing about how others live and we always learn a lot!