Montessori Assistant Toolkit: Elementary Edition
Tammy Oesting and Letty Rising
Training for Montessori Support Professionals (Ages 6-12)
Infant Toddler (ages 0-3) and Early Childhood (ages 3-6) editions are also available.
It's a common misperception that the Montessori assistant is embedded in the classroom to assist students in their learning.
In 6-12 Montessori classrooms, however, the assistant's key role is to assist the lead guide and prepare and maintain the classroom systems.
The paradigm shift from conventional education doesn't happen on its own, and lead guides rarely have the time to train assistants to be the support they truly need.
This course provides that essential training so that support professionals can be effective and successful in their role. They will be well equipped to prepare and maintain the learning environment, oversee the interpersonal dynamics of a learning community, and to support their lead guide in upholding the school and Montessori mission of amplifying the conditions for optimal learning.
The Montessori Assistant Toolkit: Elementary Edition includes:
▪️ Foundational tenets of learning including principles from the science of learning, child development, and Montessori Philosophy.
▪️ How the 6-12 year old child has unique characteristics and how to guide them effectively and respectfully.
▪️ How to prepare and maintain the Montessori 6-12 environment based on the lead guide’s wishes.
▪️ Holistic preparation as an adult in the environment and its direct impact on the well-being of students.
We will explore the key elements of creating highly effective learning environments. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and biology, the lesson explains how the Montessori Method applies these principles to optimize children’s learning outcomes.
By the end of Lesson 1, you will:
▪️ Understand the foundational principles of optimal learning.
▪️ Learn how movement, control, interest, motivation, and collaboration enhance learning.
▪️ Identify ways to apply these principles in the Montessori classroom.
We will introduce the core principles of Montessori philosophy, focusing on how these ideas shape the elementary learning environment. This lesson highlights the historical context of Dr. Maria Montessori’s work and explains how her philosophy promotes self-directed learning, independence, and collaboration in elementary-aged children.
By the end of Lesson 2, you will:
▪️ Understand the foundational principles of Montessori philosophy and their relevance to elementary education.
▪️ Learn how Montessori's philosophy promotes hands-on learning, self-discipline, and independence.
▪️ Be able to reflect on how Montessori philosophy applies to their current classroom practices.
We will focus on understanding child development during the elementary years, covering the key milestones and behaviors typical of children in this stage. This lesson explores Dr. Maria Montessori’s concept of the planes of development and how the elementary years represent a critical phase of intellectual exploration and social development.
By the end of Lesson 3, you will:
▪️ Understand the developmental needs and characteristics of elementary-aged children.
▪️ Learn about Montessori’s planes of development and how they influence educational practices during the elementary years.
▪️ Be able to observe and support children’s intellectual and social growth during this stage.
We will emphasize the importance of observation in the Montessori classroom. Observation is a critical skill that helps educators understand each child's needs, interests, and developmental progress. In this lesson, you will learn how to observe without interrupting the natural learning process and how to use your observations to better support elementary students.
By the end of Lesson 4, you will:
▪️ Understand the role of observation in the Montessori elementary classroom.
▪️ Learn various observation techniques to assess children’s learning and development.
▪️ Be able to apply these observation skills to provide individualized support for students.
We will focus on the importance of the prepared environment in Montessori education. A well-prepared elementary environment fosters independence, concentration, and collaboration, supporting the intellectual and social development of the children. This lesson will guide you on how to maintain a space that encourages active learning, exploration, and self-directed work.
By the end of Lesson 5, you will:
▪️ Understand the key components of a Montessori-prepared environment for elementary-aged children.
▪️ Learn how the environment supports academic growth, social development, and independence.
▪️ Be able to apply strategies to create and maintain a well-organized, stimulating learning environment for students.
We will explore the innate curiosity and potential of elementary-aged children. Montessori education values the child’s natural desire to learn, emphasizing the need for educators to support this curiosity with an environment that fosters discovery, exploration, and independent learning. This lesson focuses on recognizing and nurturing each child’s unique developmental journey.
By the end of Lesson 6, you will:
▪️ Understand the concept of “the wonder of the child” in the context of the elementary years.
▪️ Learn how to support children’s natural curiosity and self-motivation in the classroom.
▪️ Be able to implement strategies that encourage exploration, creativity, and intellectual growth.
We will focus on the role of the adult in the Montessori classroom. The prepared adult is crucial to creating an environment where children feel supported in their learning journey. This lesson highlights the importance of self-awareness, patience, and the ability to guide students without controlling their learning experience. It also emphasizes the need for continuous personal and professional development.
By the end of Lesson 7, you will:
▪️ Understand the qualities of a prepared adult in the Montessori elementary classroom.
▪️ Learn how to model calm, focused behavior and foster an environment that supports independent learning.
▪️ Be able to reflect on their role as a prepared adult and implement strategies for ongoing self-improvement.
A certificate of completion for 20 hours is provided. Learn more about certificates here.
This course is eligible for a CEU upgrade from Loyola University- Aspire for an additional fee.
Course Content
- MAT EE Lesson 1.0: Principles of Optimal Learning
- MAT EE Topic 1.1 - Principles of Optimal Learning - Blueprint for Learning (2:42)
- MAT EE Topic 1.2 - Principles of Optimal Learning - Movement and Learning (9:00)
- MAT EE Topic 1.3 - Principles of Optimal Learning - Control and Order (7:21)
- MAT EE Topic 1.4 - Principles of Optimal Learning - Interest and Context (13:16)
- MAT EE Topic 1.5 - Principles of Optimal Learning - Motivation and Learning (6:37)
- MAT EE Topic 1.6 - Principles of Optimal Learning - Collaboration and Learning (8:05)
- MAT EE Topic 1.7 - Principles of Optimal Learning - Interactions and Learning (6:40)
- MAT EE Topic 1.8 - Principles of Optimal Learning - Power Tools for Learning (3:12)
- MAT EE Lesson 1.0: Principles of Optimal Learning - In the Field
- MAT EE Lesson 1.0 Principles of Optimal Learning - Quiz
- MAT EE Lesson 2.0: Montessori Philosophy
- MAT EE Topic 2.1 - Montessori Philosophy - Blueprint for Learning (6:13)
- MAT EE Topic 2.2 - Montessori Philosophy - Evolution of a Pedagogy (12:24)
- MAT EE Topic 2.3 - Montessori Philosophy - Dr. Montessori: Her Life and Work (8:42)
- MAT EE Topic 2.4 - Montessori Philosophy - Philosophical Tenets (23:39)
- MAT EE Topic 2.5 - Montessori Philosophy - Power Tools for Learning (2:59)
- MAT EE Lesson 2.0: Montessori Philosophy - In the Field
- MAT EE Lesson 2.0: Montessori Philosophy - Quiz
- MAT EE Lesson 3.0: Child Development
- MAT EE Topic 3.1 - Child Development - Blueprint for Learning (3:48)
- MAT EE Topic 3.2 - Child Development - Developmental Theorists (8:29)
- MAT EE Topic 3.3 - Child Development - Brain Research (24:07)
- MAT EE Topic 3.4 - Child Development - Research to Practice (21:27)
- MAT EE Topic 3.5 - Child Development - Power Tools for Learning (3:37)
- MAT EE Lesson 3.0: Child Development - In the Field
- MAT EE Lesson 3.0: Child Development - Quiz
- MAT EE Lesson 4.0: Observation: The Keystone Skill
- MAT EE Topic 4.1 - Observation - Blueprint for Learning (4:22)
- MAT EE Topic 4.2 - Observation - The Keystone Concept (6:47)
- MAT EE Topic 4.3 - Observation - Scientists in the Field (15:56)
- MAT EE Topic 4.4 - Observation - The C.O.R.E of Observation (15:51)
- MAT EE Topic 4.5 - Observation - Observation Practices (18:54)
- MAT EE Topic 4.6 - Observation - Power Tools for Learning (4:02)
- MAT EE Lesson 4.0: Observation: The Keystone Skill - In the Field
- MAT EE Lesson 4.0: Observation: The Keystone Skill - Quiz
- MAT EE Lesson 5.0: The Prepared Environment
- MAT EE Topic 5.1 - The Prepared Environment - Blueprint for Learning (7:21)
- MAT ECE Topic 5.2 - The Prepared Environment - Role of the Environment (21:18)
- MAT EE Topic 5.3 - The Prepared Environment - Order in the Environment (37:47)
- MAT EE Topic 5.4 - The Prepared Environment - Beauty and Movement (26:11)
- MAT EE Topic 5.5 - The Prepared Environment - The Cognitive Environment (27:35)
- MAT EE Topic 5.6 - The Prepared Environment - Emotional, Social, and Spiritual Environment (18:45)
- MAT EE Topic 5.7 - The Prepared Environment - Power Tools for Learning (5:37)
- MAT EE Lesson 5.0: The Prepared Environment - In the Field
- MAT EE Lesson 5.0: The Prepared Environment - Quiz
- MAT EE Lesson 6.0: The Wonder of the Child
- MAT EE Topic 6.1 - The Wonder of the Child - Blueprint for Learning (3:11)
- MAT EE Topic 6.2 - The Wonder of the Child - Discover the Child (30:17)
- MAT EE Topic 6.3 - The Wonder of the Child - Root Causes of Behavior (9:15)
- MAT EE Topic 6.4 - The Wonder of the Child - The Guides (11:41)
- MAT EE Topic 6.5 - The Wonder of the Child - Child Guidance (22:33)
- MAT EE Topic 6.6 - The Wonder of the Child - Nurture Independence (16:51)
- MAT EE Topic 6.7 - The Wonder of the Child - Montessori Decalogue (13:03)
- MAT EE Topic 6.8 - The Wonder of the Child - Power Tools for Learning (3:43)
- MAT EEE Lesson 6.0: The Wonder of the Child - In the Field
- MAT EE Lesson 6.0: The Wonder of the Child - Quiz
- MAT EE Lesson 7.0: The Prepared Adult
- MAT EE Topic 7.1 - The Prepared Adult - Blueprint for Learning (5:06)
- MAT EE Topic 7.2 - The Prepared Adult - Professionalism (16:45)
- MAT EE Topic 7.3 - The Prepared Adult - Communication (24:09)
- MAT EE Topic 7.4 - The Prepared Adult - Nurturing Your Spirit (6:28)
- MAT EE Topic 7.5 - The Prepared Adult - Professional Development (6:59)
- MAT EE Topic 7.6 - The Prepared Adult - Power Tools for Learning (4:35)
- MAT EE Lesson 7.0: The Prepared Adult - In the Field
- MAT EE Lesson 7.0: The Prepared Adult - Quiz
Tammy Oesting
Tammy is cofounder and a trainer for ClassrooMechanics, and cofounder of Principles to Practice (with Trillium Montessori), both Montessori professional development companies. Tammy holds AMS-credentials for Early Childhood and Elementary I – II and has extensive experience as an instructor, field consultant, and workshop presenter. Her focus is on optimizing classroom performance by making professional development relevant, accessible, and effective.
Letty Rising
Letty Rising has been involved in Montessori education for over 15 years. She holds a B.A. in Sociology, a California State Teaching Credential, and an AMI elementary diploma for ages 6-12 and an M.Ed from Loyola University in Maryland. She has held positions as a Homeschool Education Specialist, Montessori Elementary Teacher, School Director, Principal, Montessori Coordinator, and Consultant in several public and private Montessori school communities throughout the years. She currently supports schools around the world through professional development offerings, consulting, and mentoring.
▪️ Assistant Toolkit User Manual (PDF): Dozens of exercises and resources to help you make the most of the course.
▪️ Power Tools (PDF): Handy quick reference guides with actionable tips for the classroom
▪️ Supporting Classroom Assistants (workshop): A bonus 50 min workshop to share with your lead teacher. Designed to provide the leader of a Montessori learning environment with the insights and skills needed to guide a support the work of their classroom assistants.
▪️ Administrator Guide (PDF): Designed to help administrators support you throughout the course, the guide includes lesson overviews, a suggested schedule, and practical support tips. No login is required to access the guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this course for?
This course is for any and all staff supporting Montessori 6-12 environments including Assistants, Paraprofessionals, Content Specialists, Administrators, Volunteers, Substitutes, and even Board Members who strive to better understand the communities for which they make decisions. It is not a substitute for lead teacher training.
Homeschoolers may find some aspects of this course helpful, but it is primarily for professionals. The Infancy-Toddlerhood edition is best for adults in a classroom setting for 0-3 year olds, and the Early Childhood edition is best for those who work with 3-6 year olds.
When does the course start and finish?
This is a self-paced course. Once you sign up, you can watch the videos and complete the suggested activities at your own pace. We recommend that you allow yourself at least one week per module. You have access to the content for one year.
How long do I have access to the course?
After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for at least one year.
Is this a live workshop?
No. This course consists of pre-recorded video lectures and recommended exercises. You may view the videos as many times as desired at your convenience for at least one year.
How much access do I have to the instructors? Can I ask them questions?
This course is not priced for access to the instructor.
Is this a MACTE accredited course?
No. This is an on-demand online course and does not include the timed and in-person components required for MACTE accreditation.
Will I receive a Certificate of Attendance?
You can get a certificate of attendance for 20 hours by request. You will need to answer questions about the course and fill out a request form. You will receive a PDF certificate via email. Read more about certificates of attendance HERE. IMPORTANT: Some licensing agencies do not accept credits for online courses that are done on-demand. If you are counting on the credits being accepted, please consult with your licensing agency before purchasing.
This course is eligible for a CEU upgrade from Loyola University- Aspire for an additional fee.
How do the group registrations work?
Group registrations allow the buyer to purchase on behalf of one or more users. Once you purchase a group registration, we will send you access links to share with your staff members. This step may take up to 72 hours since we have to do it manually. Your staff will use those links to create their own accounts on the course platform and get access to the course contents at no additional charge. They may watch the videos and go through the recommended exercises at their convenience. They may watch the videos as many times as they want, whenever they want. They have access for one year. If the buyer wants to view the content, they will have to redeem one of the access links. We do not have a way for the buyer to monitor the progress of any users.
I do not see a pricing option for the number of participants I would like to register. What should I do?
Please contact [email protected] and let us know how many people you would like to register for this course. We will send you a custom invoice.
Is there a bulk pricing discount for purchasing any variation of the toolkit editions?
The toolkits are all different courses. Bulk pricing discounts are not available when purchasing registrations across different editions.
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