by Ms. Anisa Foy, Educational Advisor of AMCA
Cultural education has always been a very important part of Montessori education. Dr. Montessori believed that once the human being’s basic needs of food, shelter and safety were met, they looked for other ways to enhance their lives. If education is viewed as a preparation for life, as Montessori education is described, then an education that neglects ways to nourish the spirit and show a child the joys of music, art, drama and culture, is an incomplete education.
Starting at the toddler level all the way to the upper elementary level our education exposes the child to music and all the arts. There is research that proves music improves developing intelligence. “Music is a magical gift we must nourish and cultivate in our children, especially now as scientific evidence proves that an education in the arts makes better math and science students, enhances spatial intelligence in newborns, and let’s not forget that the arts are a compelling solution to teen violence, certainly not the cause of it!” Michael Greene, Recording Academy President and CEO at the 42nd Annual Grammy Awards, February 2000. Dance improves the coordination of a growing child, while providing an outlet for creative energies.
Music, art lessons, drama, public speaking, and dance lessons are an integral part of our curriculum. We believe all these art forms are an extension of language, and offer means of expression for the child.