Our Peaceful Classroom
Sixty four drawings by Montessori children from around the world, compiled by Aline D. Wolf. 64 pages, soft cover, 1991 edition. A book of children's drawings is an odd thing to sell to adults and a useful one: what the pages show is not talent but what a child in a peaceful room chooses to draw, and the answer is more ordinary and more encouraging than most adults expect. Paper and cardboard.
“Free the child's potential, and you will transform him into the world.”
Our Peaceful Classroom embodies Maria Montessori's vision of education as a path to peace by presenting authentic children's artwork from Montessori communities worldwide.
- Development of global awareness and cultural appreciation through peer artwork
- Understanding of peace as a practical concept expressed through creative work
- Recognition of universal human themes across diverse cultural contexts
- Expansion of artistic vocabulary by observing varied creative techniques
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This illustrated book serves as a tangible connection between the child and their global peers, making abstract concepts of peace and unity concrete through visual expression. The 28×22cm format creates an intimate group experience where children can observe how their counterparts across cultures interpret shared human values. By featuring genuine artwork created by Montessori students, the book validates children's creative expression while demonstrating that peace education transcends language barriers. Each page of Our Peaceful Classroom becomes a window into another child's perspective, fostering the development of empathy and global consciousness that Montessori considered essential for humanity's future. The collection's focus on diversity through children's eyes aligns with the Montessori principle that young children naturally embrace differences without prejudice when given meaningful exposure to varied cultural expressions.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Place Our Peaceful Classroom on a low shelf where children can access it independently. Create a dedicated peace corner with a small rug and cushions for comfortable viewing.
- 1
Introduce the book during circle time, explaining that children from Montessori schools worldwide created these pictures
Let children hold the book and turn pages themselves to establish ownership - 2
Select one artwork to explore deeply, inviting observations about colors, shapes, and possible meanings
Avoid interpreting for children; let them discover their own connections - 3
Discuss what peace means to each child, connecting their ideas to the artwork
Write down children's definitions of peace to create your own classroom peace book - 4
Invite children to create their own peace artwork inspired by the book
Display children's work alongside photocopies from the book to show global connection
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
Brands used by
schools worldwide
European brands
AMI
Endorsed
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