Early Childhood

The academic workshop and practicum phases may be concurrent, with the anticipated successful completion in June of the same academic year. Adult learners may voluntarily defer the practicum phase to the following academic year, with the anticipated successful completion at the end of the second year in June.

Click Here to View or Download the Early Childhood Course Calendar 2026-2027

Child Development

A deep understanding of child development is the foundation of authentic Montessori practice. This course explores the developmental journey from the prenatal period through the first three years of life, examining physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and neurological growth. Adult learners study major theories of development, attachment, brain development, infant mental health, and the impact of early experiences on lifelong learning. Through current research and reflection, participants develop the ability to recognize developmental milestones, respond to individual needs, and understand how culture, family traditions, language, and lived experiences shape each child’s development, preparing educators to provide responsive, relationship-centered care that honors every child’s identity and potential.

Montessori Philosophy and Theory

Montessori philosophy provides the intellectual, ethical, and spiritual foundation for every aspect of Montessori education. This course explores the life and work of Dr. Maria Montessori, the scientific principles that informed her educational approach, and her vision of education as a pathway to human flourishing and peace. Adult learners examine the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, human tendencies, cosmic education, identity development, and the rights of the child while reflecting on the role of the prepared adult and prepared environment. Throughout the course, participants consider Montessori philosophy through contemporary perspectives that promote equity, cultural responsiveness, and deep respect for the dignity, identity, and potential of every child.

Inclusive Practice

Inclusive Montessori classrooms are built on the belief that every child belongs. This course prepares participants to create environments where children with diverse strengths, abilities, and learning needs can participate fully within the Montessori community. Through the study of child development, educational law, neurodiversity, observation, collaboration, and practical classroom strategies, adult learners will develop the knowledge and confidence to support all children while remaining faithful to Montessori philosophy.

Communities for Belonging

A true sense of belonging emerges from thoughtful observation, intentional environments, respectful relationships, and a commitment to continuous reflection. In this course, participants will examine how Montessori philosophy supports communities where every child, family, and adult is known, valued, and empowered. The course progression moves from the prepared adult to the prepared environment, to the prepared community, emphasizing that belonging is intentionally cultivated rather than assumed.

Practical Life

Practical Life is the heart of the Montessori Children’s House, where purposeful activity cultivates independence, concentration, coordination, order, and confidence. This course prepares adult learners to understand the philosophy and sequence of Practical Life experiences, including care of the person, care of the environment, food preparation, grace and courtesy, and the refinement of movement. Participants learn how thoughtfully prepared activities foster executive functioning, self-regulation, and social responsibility while creating classroom communities grounded in respect, dignity, and belonging. Adult learners also explore how practical life experiences can authentically reflect the cultural traditions, daily practices, and lived experiences of the children and families they serve.

Sensorial

The Sensorial curriculum refines the child’s senses while laying the foundation for abstract thinking, language, mathematics, and scientific observation. This course examines the philosophy, sequence, and purpose of the Montessori Sensorial materials, guiding adult learners in presenting experiences that isolate and refine visual, tactile, auditory, gustatory, and olfactory perception. Through hands-on practice and careful study, participants develop an understanding of how sensorial exploration supports cognitive development while creating opportunities for children to appreciate the beauty, diversity, and richness of the natural world and cultures across the globe through authentic sensory experiences.

Language

Language is both a means of communication and a powerful tool for constructing knowledge, identity, and human connection. This course explores the Montessori approach to oral language, vocabulary development, phonological awareness, writing, reading, grammar, creative expression, and children’s literature. Adult learners learn to prepare rich language environments that foster curiosity, joyful literacy, and meaningful communication while honoring the languages, stories, cultural traditions, and lived experiences that children bring to the classroom. Particular emphasis is placed on nurturing language development through authentic conversation, storytelling, and literature that reflects diverse voices and perspectives.

Mathematics

Montessori mathematics invites children to discover the beauty, order, and logic of the mathematical world through concrete experience. This course prepares adult learners to present the complete sequence of Montessori mathematics, including numeration, the decimal system, operations, linear counting, memorization of basic facts, fractions, and practical applications. Through the use of carefully designed Montessori materials, participants learn to guide children from concrete exploration to abstract reasoning while recognizing mathematics as a universal human endeavor shaped by diverse cultures, civilizations, and historical contributions.

Physical and Life Science

Children are natural scientists, driven by curiosity and a desire to understand the living world. This course introduces the Montessori approach to biology, botany, zoology, earth science, and physical science through observation, experimentation, classification, and exploration. Adult learners develop the knowledge and skills to cultivate scientific thinking while nurturing wonder, environmental stewardship, and respect for all forms of life. A global perspective encourages children to appreciate the interconnectedness of people, ecosystems, and the natural world.

Social Studies

Montessori Social Studies nurtures the child’s growing awareness of self, community, and the interconnected human family. This course explores geography, cultural studies, history, and the passage of time through materials and experiences that cultivate curiosity, empathy, and global citizenship. Adult learners learn to present lessons that celebrate the diversity of cultures, traditions, languages, and ways of life while helping children develop a sense of respect, responsibility, and belonging within both their local community and the wider world.

Classroom Leadership

The Montessori guide is both teacher and leader, carefully preparing an environment where children, families, and educators thrive together. This course examines the principles of effective classroom leadership, including environmental design, scheduling, observation, assessment, record keeping, communication, and classroom organization. Adult learners develop leadership skills that promote equitable learning opportunities, collaborative relationships, and responsive classroom management while thoughtfully supporting the diverse developmental, cultural, and social needs of children and their families within full-day and extended-day Montessori programs.

Observation

Observation is the cornerstone of Montessori practice and the primary means by which educators come to know and understand the child. This course develops the skills of objective, scientific observation through guided practice, classroom experiences, case studies, and reflective analysis. Adult learners learn to distinguish observation from interpretation, recognize their own assumptions and biases, and use observation to make thoughtful decisions about lessons, environmental design, and individualized support. By viewing each child within the context of their development, family, language, and culture, participants strengthen their ability to respond with authenticity, curiosity, and respect.

Art, Music, and Movement

Art, music, and movement provide children with opportunities for creativity, expression, coordination, and joyful exploration. This course introduces the Montessori approach to visual arts, music appreciation, singing, rhythm, movement, and creative expression while emphasizing process over product and the child’s intrinsic motivation to create. Adult learners learn to prepare meaningful artistic and musical experiences that celebrate the diversity of human cultures, traditions, and artistic expression, fostering creativity, appreciation, and a lifelong love of the arts.

Family Involvement and Education

Montessori education is strengthened through authentic partnerships between educators and families. This course prepares adult learners to build respectful, collaborative relationships that support children’s development both at home and at school. Participants explore strategies for parent education, effective communication, family conferences, social-emotional guidance, and collaborative problem solving while developing the knowledge and cultural humility needed to honor the diverse values, traditions, languages, and experiences of every family. Through these partnerships, educators foster trust, shared purpose, and a strong sense of community that benefits the whole child.

Action Research

Montessori educators are lifelong learners who continually refine their practice through observation, reflection, and inquiry. In this course, adult learners design and implement an action research project focused on a meaningful question arising from their own classroom experience or professional interests. Using systematic observation and evidence-based reflection, participants investigate strategies that enhance teaching, deepen understanding of children, strengthen partnerships with families, and promote inclusive, culturally responsive Montessori practice.

Practicum

The practicum is the culminating experience of Montessori teacher preparation, where theory becomes lived practice. Over a minimum of 540 supervised hours in a pre-approved primary/early childhood Montessori classroom, adult learners gradually assume increasing responsibility under the guidance of an experienced mentor teacher and field consultant. Through observation, lesson presentation, reflection, feedback, and professional mentorship, participants integrate Montessori philosophy with daily classroom practice while learning to respond thoughtfully to the unique developmental, cultural, linguistic, and family contexts of each child, ultimately developing the confidence, competence, and professional judgment required of an effective Montessori educator.

Practicum Recitation

Practicum Recitation is the companion course to the Montessori practicum, providing a dedicated space to reflect on, discuss, and document the journey from adult learner to Montessori educator. Throughout the year, adult learners submit monthly reflections, field supervisor observations, and practicum assignments while receiving ongoing feedback from instructors, field supervisors, and peers. Through this shared cycle of reflection, dialogue, and mentorship, adult learners connect theory with classroom practice, celebrate growth, and thoughtfully navigate each stage of the practicum experience. More than a course for submitting assignments, Practicum Recitation supports the personal and professional transformation that is at the heart of authentic Montessori teacher education.

Evaluation

Final review and examinations are a requirement of the MI-NE Teacher Education Courses. During Course III, students complete their examinations and present their final projects. Upon successful completion, students are recommended for an American Montessori Society (AMS) Early Childhood Credential or an American Montessori Society (AMS) Associate Early Childhood Credential.*