A Montessori Pond: Learning from Nature’s Winter Secrets
Or Shteinmetz • February 27, 2025
Our school pond is not just a peaceful retreat—it’s a living classroom! Throughout the year, children witness the changing seasons through the lens of aquatic life, learning valuable lessons about ecosystems, adaptation, and care for living things.
Right now, our goldfish in the pond during cold weather are having icy cold temperatures. Did you know that…
- Koi and goldfish are cold-blooded creatures, meaning their body temperature and activity levels adjust to their environment. As water temperatures dip below 50°F (10°C):
- Fish reduce their activity and settle near the bottom of the pond, where the water is slightly warmer.
- Their metabolism slows down, so they eat less, digest food slower, and rely on stored energy to sustain them during the winter. (Feeding them during this time can actually be harmful!)
- They take a deep nap – Dormancy! In freezing conditions, fish enter a state of torpor, conserving energy until the water warms again.
This natural cycle is a beautiful example of respecting the rhythms of life, a core Montessori value. Children observing the pond in different seasons gain a deep understanding of cause and effect, patience, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Plus, it’s a great opportunity for little scientists to ask questions: "Why do the fish slow down? What happens under the ice?"
A pond brings a special kind of wonder to our school—a place for reflection, discovery, and learning. Even in winter, when all seems still, there’s a quiet lesson waiting just beneath the surface.
Ask Your Child!
Next time you visit the pond, ask your child:
🔹 What do you notice about the water and the fish?
🔹 How do you think the fish feel in cold weather?
🔹 What changes will happen when spring arrives?
Nature is full of mysteries, and our pond helps Montessori learners uncover them one season at a time! 🌿🐟💙
The words we use shape a child’s confidence and growth. How can simple shifts in language create a more positive impact?
Our school gathered to celebrate Leil HaSeder, the special evening of the Passover (Pesach) holiday. This beautiful tradition allows us to retell the story of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their journey to freedom. More than just recounting history, Leil HaSeder teaches us about resilience, gratitude, and the importance of passing down traditions from generation to generation. The Story Behind the Seder Passover commemorates the miraculous liberation of the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt over 3,000 years ago. The Haggadah, the text read during the Seder, guides us through this story with symbolic foods, songs, and rituals. Each element on the Seder plate represents a different part of the Israelites' journey, helping children and adults alike connect to the past in a meaningful way. Experiencing the Seder Through the Montessori Lens In our Montessori environment, children learn best through hands-on experiences. Our Leil HaSeder celebration provided a multi-sensory approach to understanding the holiday, allowing the children to see, touch, smell, and taste the elements of the Seder plate. Matza – The unleavened bread that reminds us of the Israelites' hurried departure from Egypt. The children explored its texture, noticed its crispness, and tasted its unique flavor. Maror (Bitter Herbs) – Representing the bitterness of slavery, the children smelled and carefully tasted the strong, sharp flavors, helping them connect to the struggles of the past. Haroset – A sweet mixture of apples, nuts, and grape juice, symbolizing the mortar used by the Israelites in their labor. The children enjoyed its contrasting sweetness and grainy texture. Carrot & Lettuce – These vegetables symbolize different aspects of the Israelites' journey, including both hardship and growth. Children engaged in thoughtful conversation about the meaning of these foods. Zeroa (Shank Bone or Roasted Beet) – Traditionally representing the Paschal sacrifice, we used a roasted beet instead of real meat to keep our kosher restrictions. Beitzah (Roasted Egg) Symbolizes mourning for the destruction of the Temple and the cycle of life and renewal. A Joyful and Meaningful Celebration As part of our celebration, we enjoyed a warm bowl of homemade matzah ball soup , a favorite among the children! Sharing this comforting dish brought a sense of togetherness and joy to the meal. We also sang traditional Pesach songs , filling the room with music and happiness. Reading from the Haggadah , the children listened intently to the ancient words that continue to be shared in Jewish homes around the world. Through these experiences, our Montessori students connected deeply with the holiday, engaging all their senses to build a lasting understanding of Passover. By celebrating Leil HaSeder together, we not only honor our traditions but also nurture a love for learning, storytelling, and cultural heritage. We are so grateful for this opportunity to celebrate together and wish all of our families a Chag Pesach Sameach – a happy and meaningful Passover!
In the days leading up to Pesach ( Passover) , our children stepped into history, reliving the journey of Bnei Yisrael as they hurried to leave Mitzrayim. In true Montessori fashion, they engaged in a hands-on experience that connected them to the deeper meaning of the holiday—baking their very own matzah on our school’s tabun (fire pit).
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Bringing Tu Bishvat to life through exploration, discovery, and a deep connection to nature.