Montessori Education - Kalakshetra
Made by Nienhuis Montessori · shipped by Heutink International (Netherlands) About the maker
In the Montessori classroom, this educational booklet presents 'Kalakshetra - A Brief Overview', offering children aged 3-6 an introduction to this renowned institution of Indian arts and culture. Printed on natural recycled paper with distinctive red text, this pamphlet serves as a cultural education resource for the Montessori classroom, supporting the curriculum's emphasis on global awareness and appreciation of diverse cultural traditions.
“The hands are the instruments of man's intelligence.”
The Kalakshetra booklet embodies Maria Montessori's vision of education as preparation for peaceful global citizenship.
- Cultural awareness through exposure to Indian classical arts traditions
- Vocabulary enrichment with terms related to dance, music, and cultural institutions
- Geography connections as children locate Chennai and India on classroom maps
- Visual discrimination through examining traditional art forms and architectural details
Read More
This pamphlet introduces young children to India's classical arts heritage through age-appropriate text and imagery. The red printing on recycled paper creates visual interest while the content connects children to cultural traditions beyond their immediate environment. In the Montessori classroom, the Kalakshetra booklet serves as a concrete link to abstract concepts of cultural diversity. The pamphlet's focus on a specific institution of arts education allows children to understand how different societies preserve and transmit their cultural knowledge. This educational resource addresses the child's sensitive period for culture by providing factual information about real places where Indian dance, music, and crafts are studied. The booklet's simple format respects the young child's need for clarity while opening windows to the wider world.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Place the Kalakshetra booklet on a reading mat with a globe or map of Asia. Have images of Indian classical dance poses or instruments available if possible.
- 1
Introduce the booklet by showing its cover and unique red text printing
Let children feel the recycled paper texture and discuss how it differs from regular books - 2
Read through the pamphlet together, pausing at each image to discuss what children observe
Encourage questions about unfamiliar clothing, poses, or instruments shown - 3
Locate Chennai on the map and trace the journey from your location to India
Use string or ribbon to show the distance concretely - 4
Examine any dance or music images closely, noting body positions and expressions
Children can try mimicking simple hand gestures or poses - 5
Discuss how Kalakshetra is a school where children learn traditional arts
Compare to how children in your classroom learn different subjects
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
In classrooms
Around the world
European brands
Nienhuis, GAM, Educo
Montessori Education - Kalakshetra
