At Foundry Montessori school in New York, Diana Richards from the Fundación Fungi led a fascinating educational journey through the world of fungi, sparking the pupils’ curiosity and encouraging creative learning during an enjoyable day.
October 25, 2023
FFungi Staff
FFungi Volunteer
Former Fungi Foundation's Education Lead
In the heart of New York, a group of young pupils embarked on a journey through the world of fungi, guided by Diana Richards, Head of the Education Programme at the Fundación Fungi. It was a day full of excitement, curiosity and creativity, in which Diana shared the wonders of fungi with the enthusiastic pupils.
The adventure began with a lesson on the anatomy of fungi and the fascinating life cycle of these organisms. Diana transported the children to the enchanting fungi kingdom and captivated their imagination from the very first moment. As she explained the complex structure of a fungus and the stages it goes through, the children’s faces lit up with fascination.
Then came the stage of active exploration. With their newly acquired knowledge, the children were ready to go outdoors. Armed with magnifying glasses and an insatiable curiosity, they ventured into the area around the school to search for and observe different fungal species.
The excitement was palpable as the children explored the area, unearthing a great diversity of fungi. Each discovery sparked questions. Diana’s guidance and encouragement fuelled their curiosity, turning the day into a memorable and educational adventure.
But the day’s activities did not end with the exploration. Back in the classroom, the young mycologists put their creative skills into practice. Using clay and their knowledge of fungal anatomy, they created their own models. The creations were not just clay models, but expressions of their newly acquired knowledge.
The day at Colegio Foundry Montessori was a complete success: the children not only had fun, but it also awakened a deep curiosity about the natural world. Diana, with her passion for fungi and her captivating way of teaching, sparked something in these young minds. Her visit was a reminder that education is not just about passing on facts, but about inspiring a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
When the children returned home with their collections and hearts brimming with new knowledge, they carried with them the inspiration to explore, discover and appreciate the wonders of the world around them. The day they spent with Diana and Fundación Fungi left an indelible mark, nurturing a new generation of young mycophiles.
Text translated by Catherine Euale, Volunteer of Fundación Fungi’s Education Programme.
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