A Sensory Experience

By Larissa Lytwyn

Fraser Woods Montessori School recently completed a physical incarnation of the Montessori philosophy of peace, self-reflection, and harmony with nature: a Zen garden.

Thomas Johnson, owner of Lexington Gardens, head-designed and built the garden, approximately located in the center of the school building.

Its thick glass panes frame a quiet refuge from the daily rush of academia, a unique arrangement of carefully placed stones, bamboo, ginkgo, bonsai, and even a custom-made bridge.

“It really appeals to all of the senses,” said Diane Dupzyk, whose son, Michael, is a student at Fraser Woods. Children, she continued, comprehend in a number of unique styles, from visual learning to auditory reception. The garden, she noted, serves all these needs.

“We really emphasized different textures here,” said Mr Johnson. “The children especially seem to like the Bamboo path.”

Head of School Miriam Woods conceived the idea several years ago, after noting the unique construction of the atrium and its richness in natural light. Slowly, through the aid of parent donations, Ms Woods developed the foundation of the Zen garden. Several rocks were placed; paths carved out.

The project really moved forward, however, only recently. Toni Earnshaw, whose son graduated from Fraser Woods this past June, was part of a class intent on finishing the garden as a kind of “thank you” for their educational experience at Fraser Woods.

Ms Earnshaw had recently employed Mr Johnson to construct a garden at her own home and, impressed with his service, encouraged him to assist in completing the construction of the Fraser Woods Zen Garden.

Ms Earnshaw believes that the Japanese garden is integral to the Montessori emphasis on respect for nature. She issued a quote from a book she recently acquired on the topic.

“A Japanese garden is inspired by the belief that people exist has a harmonious part of nature, not separate from it and that there in their daily lives they need to stay in touch with wild nature,” she said. “To invite participation the garden stops short of replicating a landscape. It is left up to the beholder to complete the picture in their imagination.”

“Zen means enlightenment,” noted Ms Dupzyk. The Montessori philosophy of cultivating a child’s own desire to learn can be embodied through the imagination ignited through time spent in the garden. 

Ms Woods said that the garden provides a haven for students seeking peace during the hectic nature of the school day. While classes will not be held in the garden, small numbers of students may gather with teachers or by themselves.

Mr Johnson said that in its final phase, largely dependent on parent donations, he plans to build a 6- by 12-foot wooden platform for students to sit on. Some classes, said Ms Dupzyk, have already made mats to curl up on when they come to the garden.

“It’s meant to inspire tranquility and harmony,” said Ms Woods. “We are happy to have it.”