In the blended Montessori & IB PYP Early Childhood Program at Amerasia, we embark on a transformative year-long journey exploring the profound unit, “Who We Are.” By delving into the depths of self-awareness, our students grow, connect, and learn to cherish both similarities and differences. Ms. Consuelo Ravago, our esteemed Administrative & PYP Coordinator, emphasizes, “Year-long units in the PYP embody Montessori principles of time, depth, independence, and holistic growth. They transform learning into a lifelong expedition, where children not only acquire knowledge but integrate it into their being, connecting deeply with their community.” 

Lotus Cottage is exploring similarities and differences. Children worked in pairs to trace their bodies, noticing physical differences. When curious students asked a guest, “Why are you so tall?” their teacher transformed the moment into a lesson in compassion. She helped the children understand that while we cannot change certain aspects of ourselves, we can change how we approach these observations—by celebrating diversity with kindness and curiosity. She reminded them that language shapes reality: “If a person cannot change it in three seconds, we don’t need to point it out. Instead, you can think for yourself: ‘I wonder what it feels like to be as tall and if you want, you can ask nicely. What is it like?’ By choosing inclusive and respectful words, we teach children to see differences as beautiful. Through a hands-on mapping activity, students visualized their physical bodies through tracing, drawing, and labeling body parts. This experience nurtured trust among classmates and sparked meaningful conversations about race, diversity, and inclusion.

Lavender Cottage played games from around the world. Children reflected on questions such as: Do you like it? How does it make you feel? What do you like to do with your friends? What do you do at home with your family? These inquiries encouraged children to connect their experiences at school with their lives at home. 

Plum Blossom Cottage explored Who Am I?—discovering likes and preferences, and noticing what others enjoy. Through cultural games, children began to see that while we all have unique identities, we also share common joys.