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Montessori Orientations & Assistants Adjunct Courses

What is an Orientation Course?

The Orientation Courses offer an introduction to the developmental characteristics and needs of children at the various age levels.  The AMI Orientation Course supports understanding of the developmental stage (for a particular age group: 0-6, 6-12) for parents, caregivers, school staff, or any individual seeking general knowledge about Montessori developmental theory and education. Theory, practical applications, readings and discussion are a part of each age group offering.  The AMI Orientation Course is a 60-hour course with an additional 9 hours for Observation. Successful participation in all Orientation Course Requirements leads to award of the AMI Orientation Course ‘Certificate of Completion’ for the relevant age level.

The Montessori Training Center Northeast endeavors to offer multiple AMI Orientation Courses throughout the year for each age grouping.  The Orientation Courses will be scheduled for delivery using either as face-to-face (in-person), blended or fully-online formats.

  • To gain general knowledge of the Montessori approach to childhood development and education
  • To explore how an adult can best support optimal development for this age group in any environment and as needed, to identify and remove obstacles to optimal development
  • To understand the unique nature of the [age grouping]-year-old child’s mind (the Absorbent Mind), the powers for development active at this stage, and the needs and characteristics of children at this stage of development
  • To understand the general importance of Observation as a basis for providing developmental support of [age grouping]-year-old children in any environment
Explore Montessori from Birth to Age 6 (First Plane)

This AMI Orientation Course offers an engaging introduction to the principles and practices of Montessori education for children from birth to six years of age. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of Dr. Maria Montessori’s approach, including key theoretical concepts and practical applications, with a focus on the developmental needs of infants and young children and the environments that best support them.

Ideal for those considering future AMI 0–3 or 3–6 Diploma Programs, this course provides a strong starting point for deeper Montessori study. Upon successful completion, participants will receive the AMI 0–6 Orientation Course Certificate. Students who complete the 0–6 Orientation Course at MTCNE are also eligible for a tuition discount toward a diploma program.

Certificate Requirements

  • 90% attendance and course engagement

  • 100% completion of observation hours

  • Submission of up to three reflection essays (minimum 500 words each)

Our Program Design

Our program is designed for active engagement. Using a flipped classroom model, you will review lectures and course materials during asynchronous learning time before class. This preparation allows you to arrive ready for lively discussions, collaborative activities, and hands-on experiences that deepen your understanding of Montessori principles.

Topics You Will Explore

  • Orientation Course Overview & Requirements

  • Biography and Life of Maria Montessori
    Discover the story of Dr. Montessori’s life and the development of her educational approach.

  • Human Tendencies
    Examine the universal traits that guide human growth and learning.

  • Observation
    Learn observation skills as a cornerstone of Montessori practice.

  • The Four Planes of Development
    Explore Montessori’s framework of human development from birth to adulthood.

  • The Absorbent Mind
    Understand how young children effortlessly absorb knowledge from their environment.

  • Sensitive Periods
    Study the windows of opportunity for learning, including the importance of order, movement, and independence.

  • The Prepared Environment
    Consider the role of food, clothing, and toileting for children ages 0–3 and how the environment supports development.

  • The Prepared Adult
    Reflect on the qualities and responsibilities of the Montessori educator.

  • Freedom and the Development of Self-Discipline
    Investigate how independence and responsibility grow through freedom within limits.

  • Introduction to Language
    Explore the foundations of language development in early childhood.

  • The Development of the Will
    Learn how children build willpower through purposeful activity.

  • The Child’s Social Development
    Consider how community, cooperation, and social responsibility emerge in childhood.

Discover Montessori Education for Ages 6–12 (Second Plane)

his AMI Orientation Course offers an engaging introduction to the principles and practices of Montessori education for children ages 6 to 12. Participants will explore Dr. Maria Montessori’s approach to education, including both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with an emphasis on the developmental characteristics and needs of elementary-aged children and the environments that best support their growth.

Ideal for those considering the AMI 6–12 Diploma Program, this course provides a strong starting point for deeper Montessori study. Upon successful completion, participants will receive the AMI 6–12 Orientation Course Certificate. Students who complete the 6–12 Orientation Course at MTCNE are also eligible for a tuition discount toward a diploma program.

Certificate Requirements

  • 90% attendance and course engagement

  • 100% completion of observation hours

  • Submission of up to three reflection essays (minimum 500 words each)

Our Program Design

Our program is designed for active engagement. Using a flipped classroom model, you will review lectures and course materials during asynchronous learning time before class. This preparation allows you to arrive ready for lively discussions, collaborative activities, and hands-on experiences that deepen your understanding of Montessori principles.

Topics You Will Explore

  • Orientation Course Overview & Requirements 

  • Biography and Life of Maria Montessori
    Discover the story of Dr. Montessori’s life and her educational contributions.

  • Human Tendencies
    Including self-construction and the universal drives that shape learning.

  • Observation
    Learning to observe with purpose and accuracy as a foundation for guiding children.

  • Four Planes of Development
    With a focus on the transition from the first plane to the second plane.

  • Second Plane Characteristics
    Exploring social and moral development and the foundations of Cosmic Education.

  • Great Stories, Imagination, and Key Lessons
    Examining the role of storytelling and imagination in sparking curiosity.

  • The Prepared Adult
    Reflecting on the responsibilities and growth of the Montessori guide.

  • The Prepared Environment
    Understanding how the environment supports the unique needs of elementary children.

  • Freedom and Responsibility
    Investigating how independence and accountability unfold in the second plane.

  • Storytelling
    Exploring narrative as a means of inspiring wonder, connection, and responsibility.

What is an Assistant Adjunct Course?

The Assistants Course Adjunct is for those seeking a practical experience regarding the Role of an Adult as an Assistant in a Montessori Prepared environment.  The Assistants Course Adjunct is offered to supplement the Orientation Course at the corresponding age level. Receipt of the AMI Orientation Course Certificate of Completion at the relevant age level is required to participate in the AMI Assistants Course Adjunct at the corresponding age level.  The Assistants Adjunct is a 20-hour course and can only be facilitated onsite, face-to-face.  Successful participation in all Assistants Course Adjunct Requirements leads to an award of the AMI Assistants Course ‘Certificate of Completion’ for the relevant age grouping.

  • To explore the Role of an Assistant in a Montessori Prepared Environment for ages [age grouping] under the direction of an individual holding an AMI [age grouping] Diploma
  • To develop skills to create a successful partnership with the lead adult in the Montessori Prepared Environment for ages [age grouping]
  • To explore ways to develop relationships of mutual respect and trust with [age grouping]-year-old children in the Montessori Prepared Environment
  • To understand the pedagogical techniques employed in the Montessori Prepared Environment for ages [age grouping]

Flexible Montessori Orientation and Assistant Course Options

The Orientation Course and Assistants Course Adjunct may be taken individually or as a fully integrated program. MTCNE offers both options at the 0–3, 3–6, 0–6, and 6–12 levels to support the diverse needs of individuals and school communities.

Courses can be delivered in-person, online, or in a blended format—and translation options are available. MTCNE also partners with schools and organizations to provide customized Orientation and Assistant Course Adjuncts designed to meet the specific needs and schedules of your community.

Interested in bringing a course to your school or region?

We offer free consultations. Contact us at 860-232-1743 or email Dr. Courtney Reim, Managing Director at creim@crec.org to learn more.

Explore our standard upcoming offerings below.

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