INFANT AND TODDLER: SUMMARY

The Montessori Infant and Toddler curriculum is based upon a respect for the unique individuality of each child, and that the appropriate methods for engaging with young children are based upon ongoing observation. In preparing an environment for young children, beyond safety and respect opportunities for each child to freely explore, engage, absorb and develop at his/her own pace is essential. The role of the adult is to "assist life" through deeply respectful and responsive engagement with the child – child centered, and not adult dominated. A format of lectures, discussion, hands on experiences and practice help foster the development of Montessori skills and insights.

Prerequisites:

• A Bachelor’s Degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college/university or its equivalent (in any area of study) for a Full AMS Infant and Toddler credential
• High School diploma or GED for an Associate Infant and Toddler credential.  Note: Please check the requirements for a lead teacher with your individual state.
• Adult Learners without Montessori Early Childhood certification must take the one week Montessori Early Childhood Overview course.  This course starts just before the Infant and Toddler Summer 2025 program begins (June 9-13, 2025) and is an additional $400.  The option to enroll in the Overview course is offered during the application process.

Tuition and Fees:

$100 Non-Refundable Application Fee
$7,700 - See Academic Catalog for details

Fees for Program Options:

• $300 For Adult Leaerners who select a two-year Self-Directed Practicum (rather than the regular one-year Supervised practicum)
• $400 Early Chilhood Overview Course (required only for Adult Learners who do not already have a Montessori Early Childhood credential)

INFANT AND TODDLER: SYLLABUS

REQUIRED READING

"The Montessori Method", "The Absorbent Mind", Dr. Montessori’s Own Handbook", The Discovery of the Child", "The Secret of Childhood", "The Child and The Family".  All are by Maria Montessori.  In addition, "Understanding The Human Being: The Importance Of The First Three Years Of Life" by Silvana Quattrocchi Montanaro, and "Oneness and Separateness" by Louise J. Kaplan.  Books are available at Amazon, your local bookstore or Nienhuis Montessori, 1-800-942-8697. 

MONTESSORI PHILOSOPHY

This course presents Montessori’s philosophy and method of education.  It introduces the learner to Maria Montessori and the historical timeline of the Montessori method as well as all of the philosophical concepts that she developed through her scientific observation and work with children.  This includes an overview of how this method and these concepts apply to infants through three year olds.

PEDAGOGY

The adult learner will learn the importance of the basic human tendencies, sensitive periods of development, and the child as a spiritual embryo as described by Maria Montessori.  Additionally, an overview of techniques to develop positive relationships with children and utilize additional tools to support the child’s optimal development will be presented.  This course prepares the adult learner for understanding the importance of the Infant and Toddler environment being designed to be aesthetically pleasing, calm and well organized.  Daily living is at the heart of Infant/Toddler curriculum with an emphasis on movement and language.

ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN

This course presents the specific focus of the Infant Toddler environment as a safe, healthy and stimulating setting both at home and at school.  The outstanding characteristics of the environment must be simple, beautiful and organized in order to meet the infant and toddler needs in awakening the spiritual embryo and addressing the sensitive periods in these early years.  This course helps the adult leaner understand that the child’s care must respect the individual needs physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.

CHILD, FAMILY, AND COMMUNITY

This course prepares the adult learner for work with the parents to support their journey in educating their child and fostering a loving relationship of mutual respect, support, and cooperation.  This section informs the adult learner of the importance of how to communicate with parents about child development, the importance of the family in the child’s education of life, and how to best support the child’s overall health and well-being.

OBSERVATION

This course presents Dr. Maria Montessori’s concepts of education based on the scientific observation of the child.  Montessori’s child-centered approach to education was based on developing the ability to observe, evaluate the child’s needs, and respond to those needs by: (1) working together with the child’s family, and (2) implementing the philosophy through the curriculum and the prepared environment.  Specific techniques of observation will be discussed, and program staff will supervise the adult learner as he/she engages in some observational experiences using these techniques.

PERSONAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

This course gives an overview of the skills, mannerisms and ethics expected of a professional in this field.  Introspection and continued spiritual growth of the adult is highlighted.  Additionally, a brief overview of school structures, professional opportunities and professional societies will be discussed.

PROGRAM LEADERSHIP

This course presents ideas for developing strong Montessori birth to three programs.  These components include: the prepared environment/ classroom design/ sequence of materials classroom management guidance and discipline needs and requirements of extended day and full day programs a diverse, multi-cultural community parent communication, personal and staff development, and general school administration.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT: PRENATAL TO THREE YEARS, AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT YEAR LONG OBSERVATION PROJECT

This course presents Montessori’s theory of human development.  In addition other prominent developmental theorists (such as Piaget and Erickson) will be explored.  Additionally, the adult learner will use observation techniques presented during the program to observe and record his/her observation of 3 children each month, for nine months.