Assistants to Infancy (0-3)

The AMI Assistants to Infancy program offers a comprehensive study of Montessori theory and practice to work with children aged birth to three in home and classroom environments. During 700 hours of teacher preparation, learners thoroughly explore Montessori philosophy, human development, Montessori infant and toddler activities/materials, and expectations for Montessori professional communities.

Through their classwork, learners study how to guide healthy growth and development during these vital early years. The child at this age requires a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment to develop trust in themselves and their world. By offering age-appropriate activities and gentle feedback, the Montessori guide helps to build the child’s confidence in their emerging abilities, develop coordination and language skills, and gain independence in daily tasks and activities.

The Assistants to Infancy program focuses particularly on sensory-motor and language development. Other topics examined include school and classroom design, creation of toys and activities, parent support and consultation, and affiliated fields, such as obstetrics. For individuals trained in other levels of Montessori education, the information offered in the Assistants to Infancy program will support and augment their previous training. Most significantly, this program is practical; it will enhance any study of early childhood education and will benefit any future parent.

• Learner Handbook

Learners produce six comprehensive teaching manuals to support their work with children and families, in the areas of Theory, Medical, Foundations of Personality Development, Home Environment, Aids to Psycho-Sensory Motor Development, and Community Environments. These teaching manuals form a large component of the learner's work throughout the program and are based on demonstrations and lectures given by the trainer.

Learners learn how to create beautiful and useful materials for work with young children. Practical advice, including sewing and construction techniques, is provided for learners who need additional assistance.

Observation is at the core of the Montessori guide’s work. During 250 hours of observation of children aged birth to three, learners take detailed notes about what they see, and interpret these observations through the lens of Montessori theory and practice. Some of these hours of supervised observation will be completed during the summer class session, and learners will make their own arrangements for the remaining hours of observation during the intervening academic year.

In addition to the creation of teaching manuals, learners also learn important professional skills such as working with and supporting parents; assessing the different stages of movement, language, and personality development; and deciding how and when to present activities and materials.

Comprehensive written and oral examinations verify that each learner has met the standards of the Association Montessori Internationale.

0-3 Books & Supplies List

Learners will purchase all books independently. You will be provided a booklist prior to the program if you are required to purchase any books.

Learners will receive specific guidance about exact requirements, but all learners will need these items to start:

• Computer, all-in-one printer, and internet access

• Ample note-taking supplies (ie: large multi-subject notebooks and writing utensils)

• Printer paper

• Towel or yoga mat for daily Respiratory Autogenic Training

Costs vary depending on the supplier and thriftiness of the learners. For learners on a budget, there are alternatives to office supply stores, such as Goodwill. In Portland, SCRAP is a great place to search for recycled office and material-making supplies.

The creation of Montessori materials and activities is a large component of the program. Supplies can include fabric, thread, and craft paper. We also suggest a set of color pencils. Watercolor pencils are often preferred. These can be purchased from various locations and again can be found at various price points.

Learners can expect to spend between $800 and $1500 on office and material supplies throughout the program as well as $99 for an AMI Membership.