With Chinese New Year approaching, the spirit of tradition comes alive in every thoughtful preparation. Young hands carefully practice the graceful strokes of calligraphy, pouring their hearts into symbols of luck, prosperity, and good fortune. In the kitchen, vibrant butterfly pea flowers transform into rich hues of blue and purple, adding warmth and colour to handmade tang yuan—a dessert that sweetens the bonds of love and unity. Delicate red paper cuttings take shape, with each intricate design carrying whispers of wishes for happiness, abundance, and peace.
This season is more than a celebration; it’s a time to honour the beauty of heritage, the joy of togetherness, and the hope for a bright, blessed year ahead. Here’s to preserving traditions and embracing the new year with love, creativity, and gratitude.
Montessori emphasizes that art is a means for children to express themselves freely. It’s not about producing perfect or conventional art but about the process of self-expression. This aligns with Montessori’s belief in allowing children to make choices, encouraging them to explore materials, and fostering their creativity.
The “prepared environment” is Maria Montessori’s concept that the environment can be designed to facilitate maximum independent learning and exploration by the child. In the prepared environment, there is a variety of activities as well as a great deal of movement. A Montessori teacher serves as the preparer and communicator of the environment to the child and is responsible for maintaining the atmosphere and order of the prepared environment. The materials range from simple to complex and from concrete to abstract, catering toward every child’s age and ability.
Montessori classrooms are designed to offer lessons, activities, and tools that match the developmental needs and interests of each child. It is important to note that not every child will be interested in every available lesson. This is why children are allowed to choose the lessons they gravitate toward naturally.
The best Children’s Day gift for themselves! Children were celebrating Children’s Day through online lessons by making themselves in art and craft sessions.
Art and craft activities give kids a sense of achievement and take pride in their work which builds confidence. Making art is a great, safe way to discover that it’s okay to make mistakes and that getting things ‘wrong’ can lead you to a whole new idea. Kids get to try new things and also develop their “self-regulation skills~