Educating the Whole Child, ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

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.

Multi-Age Groupings

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.

• 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 & Upper Elementary, 6 – 12 years

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.

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.

Uninterrupted Work Periods

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. AMS recommends:

• 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.