Fungi Kingdom Charts
Made by Nienhuis Montessori · shipped by Heutink International (Netherlands) About the maker
The fungi kingdom charts, with a control chart and a mute chart. Fungi are the kingdom children are most often told about wrongly, because a mushroom looks like a plant and is not one, and the chart is where that gets straightened out: a separate kingdom, on its own sheet, with its own divisions. Placing the pieces on the mute chart and checking against the control is the whole exercise. Durable plastic with rounded corners. In English.
“Education is a natural process spontaneously carried out by the human individual, and is acquired not by listening to words but by experiences upon the environment.”
The Fungi Kingdom Charts introduce young children to the fascinating world of fungi through large-format photographic illustrations that capture real specimens in vivid detail.
- Develops visual discrimination skills through comparing different fungal forms and structures
- Builds scientific vocabulary related to fungi classification and characteristics
- Strengthens observation skills by examining detailed photographic examples
- Cultivates respect for lesser-known forms of life in nature
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Maria Montessori emphasized that children construct knowledge through sensorial experiences, and these charts provide visual access to fungal diversity that would otherwise remain invisible in daily life. The presentation of three distinct fungal phyla on the charts mirrors the Montessori approach to classification work, where children observe differences and similarities to build understanding. By displaying actual photographs rather than simplified drawings, the Fungi Kingdom Charts respect children's ability to appreciate authentic scientific information. The detailed descriptive text accompanying each fungal example serves children who are beginning to read, allowing them to connect visual recognition with scientific vocabulary. These educational wall charts transform abstract biological concepts into concrete visual experiences that children can reference repeatedly throughout their cultural studies work.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Mount the Fungi Kingdom Charts at children's eye level in the cultural studies area. Place a small table or shelf beneath with magnifying glasses, fungal specimens if available, and related three-part cards.
- 1
Begin with a small group presentation, inviting children to observe the charts and share what they notice about the different fungi shown
Allow ample time for initial observations before introducing vocabulary - 2
Point to specific fungi examples and read their names, encouraging children to repeat the scientific terms
Start with fungi that have familiar names like 'mushroom' before introducing new terminology - 3
Guide children to compare fungi within the same phylum, noting similarities in structure or form
Use a pointer or your finger to trace similar features across different examples - 4
Introduce the concept of phyla by showing how the chart groups similar fungi together
Relate this to other classification work children may have done with animals or plants
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
In classrooms
Around the world
European brands
Nienhuis, GAM, Educo
Fungi Kingdom Charts
