Training for Montessori Support Professionals (Ages 3-6)

 Infant Toddler (ages 0-3) and Elementary (ages 6-12) Editions are also available.

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 dive into the core ideas behind the Montessori philosophy and learn about Dr. Maria Montessori’s revolutionary approach to education. This lesson provides a historical overview of her work, as well as insights into the educational principles that set Montessori apart from conventional teaching methods.

By the end of Lesson 2, you will:

▪️ Understand the fundamental principles of the Montessori method.

▪️ Gain insight into the history of educational thought that influenced Dr. Maria Montessori’s work.

▪️ Learn how Montessori’s philosophy can be applied in the classroom to support child development and independent learning.

We will explore the principles of child development, including the planes of development that guide Montessori education. This lesson also touches on the scientific research behind these stages, emphasizing how Montessori’s observations align with modern developmental theories.

By the end of Lesson 3, you will:

▪️ Understand the planes of development as described by Dr. Maria Montessori.

▪️ Gain knowledge of child development theories and how they relate to Montessori education.

▪️ Learn how to observe and support children’s growth across different stages of development in the classroom.

We will learn about the vital role that observation plays in Montessori education. Observation allows educators to understand the needs of each child, assess their development, and guide their learning journey without interference. This lesson focuses on developing observation skills and applying them effectively in the classroom.

By the end of Lesson 4, you will:

▪️ Understand the importance of observation as a fundamental Montessori skill.

▪️ Learn different observation techniques and how to apply them in the classroom.

▪️ Develop the ability to observe children without interrupting their natural flow of activity.

We will explore the significance of the prepared environment in Montessori education. The prepared environment is a carefully organized space that supports children's independence, concentration, and development. This lesson emphasizes how the physical, social, and emotional aspects of the environment work together to foster optimal learning.

By the end of Lesson 5, you will:

▪️ Understand the essential components of a Montessori prepared environment.

▪️ Learn how to create an environment that promotes independence, order, and beauty.

▪️ Recognize how the physical setup and emotional tone of the environment contribute to children's learning and development.

We will explore the innate wonder and potential of each child. This lesson emphasizes the importance of seeing children as capable, curious, and eager to learn. It focuses on how educators can nurture a child’s natural development by providing a supportive environment and fostering positive interactions that encourage growth.

By the end of Lesson 6, you will:

▪️ Understand the concept of “normalization” and how it reflects a child’s inner harmony and independence.

▪️ Recognize the unique qualities and potential of each child.

▪️ Learn strategies for nurturing independence, curiosity, and self-motivation in children.

We will focus on the role of the adult in the Montessori classroom. The prepared adult plays a key role in supporting children’s learning by maintaining a calm, focused presence and serving as a guide rather than a director. This lesson emphasizes the importance of personal growth, self-awareness, and professionalism in the Montessori environment.

By the end of Lesson 7, you will:

▪️ Understand the qualities of a prepared adult in the Montessori classroom.

▪️ Learn how to model calm, focused behavior and guide children without directing them.

▪️ Develop strategies for self-reflection and professional growth to better support children.

A certificate of completion for 15 hours is provided. Learn more about certificates here.

This course is eligible for a CEU upgrade from Loyola University- Aspire for an additional fee.

"Being new to the Montessori world and having this great opportunity to receive these classes and workshops before I start in the classroom has brought knowledge and insight in how the Montessori way differs from all other early childhood classes I have taught in the past. I always felt there was something lacking in the other institutions/companies I worked for. Now with this new found understanding of of the science and practices of the Montessori way I have a new found spark of interest and inner enthusiasm about re-entering the classroom this new school year." -Heather Iversen

"I found this course to be very professional and gave me the confidence needed to proceed in my career as a Montessori teacher. " -Teresa Untiedt

"The course was delivered in a very interesting and methodical way.It was easy to grasp and understand the various details that go into making a dynamic assistant teacher." -Sarmistha Ghosh

"I very much enjoyed this course. Learned so much about the Montessori methods and why we do what we do." -Roseann Ric

"I must say I learned a whole lot in this course, especially for someone who doesn't know much about Montessori, how it was started and the techniques and approaches used and after completing the course, I know much more. So much so I'd like to go over the course again, periodically to review and be sure I keep up with the teachings. Also, this course is great because what you learn about Montessori can be applied to everyday life and interpersonal relationships, both in a work environment and at home. Additionally, I learned a great deal about myself, how I can use my strengths and personality to help in the classroom, and how to manage myself in the classroom especially with the students I help to teach and my lead teachers." -Sabrina Gutierrez

"This course helped be to feel more confident about my purpose and role as a classroom assistant. I feel my job performance has been much improved!" -Elisabeth Smith

"This is my first year in a Montessori classroom, and this training has truly helped me understand its function. I am so glad I was able to take this course. My favorite module was the Prepared Environment, and learning about the setup of a Montessori classroom." -Hope Riley

"I'm going on my third year assisting in Montessori classroom. This course has helped me tremendously with things I need to improve on." -Sarah Albright

"This was the best form of Montessori training that I have had. It really has equipped me more in becoming a better teachers assistant." -Sara Scherf

"Overall, this is an excellent training program. It has valuable information for the para-educator that has little to no experience within the Montessori classroom. Implementing the tools provided has proved instrumental in creating a functional environment between para and the Montessori classroom community. I feel that we are a better informed group and it gave me the opportunity to be able to bond with my classroom kids. In our school, we are a family and I feel that the training assisted me in building a bridge between myself and the school as a whole. " -Gisella Santiago-Gronka

"Great online course to do in your own pace. I'm a part time Assistant, that also has another side job as well as a family with 2 toddlers and dogs. It is definitely doable and awesome to have your own pace available. The videos can be played multiple times in case of &/or stopped and resumed. The instructor Tammy makes it easy to follow her whenever you get back into it right away. She is practicing and resembling her great smile and the warming effect of doing so will make you feel it right away. I loved this course, her professionalism, the set up of the classes and will ask my employer for sure to maybe invite Tammy to a personal presentation in our facility, because I really enjoyed it. And what is Montessori all about - Lifelong learning - so I am looking forward to the future!!! Knowledge here I come!!!" -Marlis Reidel

"With a master's degree in teaching, but having no experience with the Montessori pedagogy, this course gave me the essential keys to start my career as a Montessori assistant and even made me want to train myself to become a certified Montessori teacher." -Elise Nelson

"I took this course after working in a Montessori classroom for a year as an assistant. I now have a better understanding of why the teacher did specific things in a certain way or order. I also have a better knowledge of how Montessori class rooms are arranged the way they are. This class has given me a lot of confidence for when I return to the class room." -Jody McCoart

"This course is concise and straightforward while being enlightening and fruitful. I found comfort in the voice of Ms. Oesting as well as the spaces, images and quotes displayed throughout the videos. I imagine that even for one who has been through training, these modules would make a nice refresher course, and from the perspective of one in the field for some time but without training, I learned new things and felt good to review things I had previously learned." -Sarah McCants

"Regardless of how long you have been involved in the work of Montessori, and regardless of the capacity to which you are involved in the children's house I believe this course will be relevant and inspiring. I especially recommend taking this course alongside others in your community as the videos fostered meaningful conversations amongst assistance and leaders in our school." -Corey Jungclaus

"It helped me realize the beauty of the Montessori education. I had been in a classroom for about two months before starting the course and of course I realized I'd been making some mistakes. Tammy's explanations were very eloquent and it explained the Montessori method for different ages." -Yobana Garcia

▪️ 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.

Who is this course for?

This course is specially designed for support personnel in a Montessori classroom setting. 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 Early Childhood edition is best for adults in a classroom setting for 3-6 year olds.

Anyone interested in gaining an improved understanding of Montessori pedagogy and practice is welcome to participate.

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.

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 instructor? Can I ask her questions?

This course is not priced for private 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 15 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 does the school registration work?

The school registration allows one buyer to purchase on behalf of multiple participants. Once you have checked out, we will send you access links to pass on to the other participants (We have to do this part manually, so please allow 48 hours). You do not need to send us the names or emails of your group. The access links will enable each participant to set up their own login to view the course. If you are planning to view the course videos as a group, please be sure to purchase the school registration that corresponds to the number of viewers.

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.

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