The Deep Well Of Time
Michael Dorer on storytelling in the Montessori classroom, with more than forty complete stories matched to the curriculum. 356 pages, soft cover, 2018 edition. Storytelling is the one part of the method that cannot be bought: the great lessons are told, not demonstrated, and an adult who is not a natural teller needs the stories written out before they can find their own way of giving them. Paper and cardstock, for teachers.
“The hands are the instruments of man's intelligence.”
The Deep Well of Time serves as a fundamental bridge between the child's concrete experiences and the abstract concept of cosmic history.
- Develops initial understanding of time as a continuum through visual storytelling
- Builds vocabulary related to space, stars, and cosmic phenomena
- Strengthens sequencing abilities through following the universe's timeline
- Cultivates wonder and curiosity about natural phenomena and origins
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Through its stunning nebula imagery and silhouette artwork, this educational book transforms the incomprehensible vastness of time into accessible visual narratives that children aged 3-6 can begin to grasp. The book's design aligns with Maria Montessori's vision of presenting the universe as an interconnected whole, where each page of nebula imagery and cosmic storytelling builds upon the child's natural curiosity about origins and existence. As preparation for the formal Great Lessons that come later, The Deep Well of Time offers younger children their first glimpse into the magnificent story of the universe through carefully crafted illustrations that speak to their developmental need for visual learning. The softcover format allows children to handle and explore these cosmic concepts independently, while the book's captivating artwork creates lasting impressions that will deepen when they encounter the full Great Lessons in elementary years.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Create a quiet reading corner with comfortable seating. Have a small lamp or flashlight available to enhance the nebula imagery experience. Place the book at child height for independent access.
- 1
Begin by inviting the child to explore the cover's nebula imagery, asking what they notice in the colors and shapes
Allow extended observation time - cosmic imagery often reveals new details with patient looking - 2
Open to the first spread and read slowly, pausing to trace the silhouettes with your finger
Use a gentle, wondering tone rather than instructional voice to maintain the sense of mystery - 3
After each page, invite the child to share what they see in the nebula formations
Accept all observations - children often see wonderful connections adults miss - 4
When reaching timeline elements, use hand gestures to show the passage of time
Sweep your hand slowly across the page to give physical representation to time's flow
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
Brands used by
schools worldwide
European brands
AMI
Endorsed
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