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1. Montessori Certified Teachers

A qualified Montessori teacher supports children’s natural development by observing their interests and abilities and introducing developmentally appropriate lessons and materials. Trained in Montessori theory and practice, these teachers skillfully use materials, guide students, and create a supportive learning environment. AMS recognizes credentials from AMS, the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), and accredited Montessori teacher education programs.​

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Educating the
Whole Child

Ages
6 weeks
to 
12 years

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The Montessori
Method

Dating back to 1907, Dr. Maria Montessori designed a unique learning environment with materials that fostered a student's natural desire to learn. This child-centered educational approach recognizes that a child is eager and capable of initiating learning when provided with a supportive, prepared, and hands-on environment that values the human spirit and development of the child as a whole.

Five Core Components of an Authentic Montessori School

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2. Multi-Age Groupings

In Montessori schools, multi-age groupings allow younger children to learn from older peers and face new challenges through observation, while older children reinforce their learning by teaching and developing leadership skills. This setup fosters cooperation and reflects real-world interactions across ages. Montessori classrooms are organized by developmental stages, though some schools adjust groupings for state regulations. Typical age ranges are:

  • Infant: Birth – 18 months

  • Toddler: 18 months – 3 years

  • Early Childhood: 2.5 – 6 years

  • Lower Elementary: 6 – 9 years

  • Upper Elementary: 9 – 12 years 

    • or combined Lower and Upper Elementary, 6 – 12 years
       

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3. Montessori Materials

Montessori materials are specially designed to allow students to manipulate and investigate them to master the lessons they embody. Each material is presented by the teacher and teaches one skill at a time, following a logical sequence. Built-in error-control allows the child to determine if they've done the exercise correctly. Materials offer multiple levels of challenge and can be used repeatedly at different developmental levels. Through these materials, a child uses real objects and actions to translate abstract ideas into deeper, concrete understanding. 

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4. Child-Directed Learning

Montessori education encourages children to select meaningful, challenging work that sparks their interest, fostering engagement and intrinsic motivation. The classroom design supports this with calm, uncluttered spaces for both individual and group activities, promoting curiosity. Children are free to move and explore, while teachers guide their learning and ensure a respectful, orderly environment.

5. Uninterrupted Work Periods

In Montessori classrooms, the “uninterrupted work period” lets students work at their own pace, respecting their individual learning styles. During this time, students select and complete tasks without interruption, building coordination, concentration, and independence. The cycle involves choosing an activity, engaging with it, cleaning up, and selecting a new task. Teachers support and monitor students, providing individual and small-group lessons. AMS recommends the following work periods for each program level:

  • Infant & Toddler: Minimum 2 hours daily, including mealtime, snacks, hygiene, and nap/rest.

  • Early Childhood: Minimum 2 hours daily, 4 days a week; 3 hours optimal, 5 days a week.

  • Elementary: Minimum 2 hours daily, 4 days a week; 3 hours optimal, 5 days a week.

  • Secondary: Minimum 2 hours daily for core subjects.

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