Montessori Infant Toddler Diploma Course

March 17, 2010

Montessori Infant Toddler Diploma Course

Overview

Dr. Montessori saw education as a natural process for children.  This vision is implemented through the experience and wisdom of highly competent, international Montessori trainers.  Learning includes a voyage of personal discovery for student teachers.  The Montessori philosophy, which is at the heart of the course, is offered within the framework of contemporary child development.  Developmentally appropriate materials support all learning concepts and are modelled within the prepared environment.  This course (a minimum of 200 contact hours) provides the following curriculum areas:

• Historic foundations of the scientific approach to Montessori education and philosophy
• Stages of child development in the contemporary context
• Environmental Design
• Child, Family and Community
• Personal Growth and Development
• Observation
• Music and Movement
• Program Leadership and Administration
• Overview of the Montessori Early Childhood Diploma Course

Aims

• To place Montessori philosophy at the core of child development
• To provide trainee teachers with the keys to understand the relevant practical skills to meet the needs of the child
• To train competent teachers according to the standards of the best Montessori schools

Objectives

• To implement the aims and enjoy the outcomes of this course, the student teacher will need to experience a change of heart.  This voyage of personal discovery will allow the student teacher to value the children's efforts as they strive to achieve individual potential.  Dr. Montessori tells us: "Education is not something which the teacher does, but that it is a natural process which develops spontaneously in the human being."

Intended Audience

• Those who wish to train as Montessori teachers with children between the ages of birth and three years of age.
• E.C.E. and pre-school teachers who want to gain more understanding of the Montessori Method.
• Recent immigrants to Ontario who wish to adapt their current skills and knowledge.
• Individuals seeking a career change

Teaching Practice and Internship

This integral aspect of the course consists of training in an approved Montessori school under the direction and guidance of an experienced Montessori certified teacher, who acts as a personal mentor.  The period of internship is one academic year.  During this year, the student teacher observes, assists and joins in all aspects of the educational and management process in the host school.  Additional independent study, material making, research and projects are required.

Admissions Requirements

See Application Process.