At Cantera Montessori, learning comes alive through culture, community, and hands-on experiences. This Lunar New Year, we were honored to have Ms. Milinh share meaningful traditions and artifacts with our students, giving them a deeper understanding of the celebration and its rich symbolism.

In true Montessori spirit, the experience was tactile, sensory, and child-centered.

A Pomelo to See, Smell, and Taste

Ms. Milinh brought a beautiful pomelo, a fruit often associated with prosperity and good fortune during Lunar New Year. The children passed it carefully from hand to hand, observing its size, texture, and citrus scent.

Together, they watched as it was cut open, revealing its bright interior. The opportunity to taste the fruit added another layer of sensory discovery and cultural connection.

Traditional Clothing

She also brought traditional Lunar New Year clothing in child sizes. The children were invited to try the garments on if they wished, allowing them to experience the beauty and significance of the attire in a personal way.

The classroom filled with smiles as children admired the colors, fabrics, and details.

A Jade Necklace

Ms. Milinh shared a jade necklace, explaining that jade is believed to offer protection, invite good fortune, and promote good health. The children examined the stone closely, learning how cultural objects often carry meaning beyond what we can see.

Moments like these help children understand that traditions are rooted in values, beliefs, and family history.

Lion Dancing Puppets

The celebration would not be complete without lion dancing puppets, representing the traditional performances often seen at Lunar New Year gatherings. The children were captivated by the vibrant colors and expressive movements as they learned about the joy and symbolism of the lion dance.

Honoring Culture Through Experience

At MSOSV, we believe cultural celebrations are opportunities for connection, respect, and curiosity. By inviting families to share their traditions, we create an environment where every child’s background is valued and explored.

Experiences like this reflect our guiding principle: Children First, Always. When children engage directly with meaningful traditions, they build understanding, empathy, and a broader view of the world.

We are grateful to Ms. Milinh for bringing Lunar New Year to life in such a thoughtful and engaging way.