Valuing + Conserving Resources

At Moss & Heart Montessori, we are committed to valuing and conserving resources — using them as necessary, not as available to waste. This principle is woven into our daily practice and modeled for the children, helping them develop awareness, gratitude, and responsibility for the materials and natural resources around them.

Montessori education is, at its heart, education for peace. As an extension of this philosophy, we practice mindful sharing and resource use — taking what we need, when we need it, and ensuring there is enough for everyone.

In the classroom, materials are intentionally limited; there are not enough of each activity for every child to use at once. This reality helps children understand that resources are not infinite. They learn patience while waiting for a turn, respect for others’ work, and awareness of how their choices impact their community.

Operating a school naturally requires daily use of resources, such as dishwashing and laundry to maintain a clean environment. We make thoughtful choices to minimize waste and support sustainability — selecting natural materials like wood, fabric, and metal, which are not only aesthetically and sensorially pleasing but also more durable and recyclable than plastic.

We also strive to reduce consumption and landfill contributions by purchasing from low- or zero-waste stores such as Mama & Hapa’s, where we source hand soap, dish soap, dishwashing tablets, reusable cloths, and more. In all that we do, we aim to use environmentally friendly, eco-conscious, and health-conscious materials, supplies, and systems — modeling care for both our immediate environment and the world beyond our classroom.