Workshops & Webinars
Early Childhood
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Professional development hours and credits are available.
Assistant's Workshop
Friday, January 26, 2024,
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (CST)
In person instruction, in a Model Classroom
$85.00
This comprehensive one-day workshop, priced at $85 per person, is designed for individuals stepping into the vital role of an assistant within the Montessori classroom. Recognizing the assistant as an invaluable and necessary staff member, this program provides a foundational understanding of the assistant's role in supporting the lead teacher and the students.
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Participants will explore how to bridge the gap between having little to no prior Montessori experience and becoming an effective member of the classroom team. Key to this transformation is awareness of the day-to-day activities and the preparations required to ensure a smoothly functioning learning environment.
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The workshop delves into practical techniques and subtle nuances essential for assisting the lead teacher, tailored to align with the structured, child-centered Montessori approach. Additionally, attendees will gain insight into the basics of Montessori philosophy, equipping them with the understanding necessary to foster an inclusive, supportive, and nurturing classroom atmosphere.
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Through this workshop, assistants will learn to appreciate their critical role in the educational journey of each child, embracing the structured yet flexible nature of the Montessori method.
Science of Reading
Friday, January 19-20, 2024,
2 Day Workshop
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (CST)
In person instruction, in a Model Classroom
$110.00
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This enriching course is specifically tailored for educators and Montessori practitioners who wish to stay abreast of the latest scientific research on reading and its practical application within the Montessori framework.
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Highlights of the course include:
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Science-Based Montessori Reading: Gain in-depth knowledge about how Montessori reading practices are underpinned by contemporary scientific research. This segment of the course emphasizes the evidence-based strategies that make the Montessori approach to reading highly effective.
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Application in the Classroom: Learn the art of implementing the Montessori reading approach in the classroom. This involves a detailed understanding of Montessori materials and techniques, as well as how to create an environment that fosters a love for reading.
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Sensitive Periods in Early Childhood: Enhance your understanding of the sensitive periods pivotal to early childhood development. Explore how oral language games and activities, when introduced during these sensitive periods, facilitate a seamless transition from unconscious to conscious learning. Discover how to identify these periods and effectively utilize them to optimize reading instruction.
This course is designed to deepen your understanding of the Montessori approach to reading, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to guide children through their early literacy journey in a way that is both structured and in tune with their natural development.
Math Refresher
Friday, March 9-10, 2024,
2 Day Workshop
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (CST)
In person instruction, in a Model Classroom
$150.00
This refresher workshop, aimed at early childhood Montessori educators, focuses on revitalizing their understanding and delivery of fundamental Montessori mathematics presentations. Priced accessibly, it ensures educators are well-versed in the Montessori approach to mathematical development.
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Highlights of the course include:
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Fundamentals of Montessori Math: Participants will revisit the core Montessori math presentations, reviewing how each exercise and material contributes to the construction of the mathematical mind. The workshop will cover the sequential and interconnected nature of these presentations, reinforcing the educators' ability to scaffold children's mathematical understanding effectively.
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Neuroscience and Mathematical Learning: Educators will be brought up-to-date with current research on the neurological processes involved in learning mathematics. This includes exploring how this research intersects with Montessori pedagogy, particularly with regard to sensitive periods for learning math concepts.
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Sensitive Periods and Math Education: The course will offer a deeper look at how sensitive periods influence mathematical learning, and how educators can optimize Montessori practices to align with these critical windows of opportunity.
Through this workshop, Montessori educators specializing in early childhood will enhance their proficiency in mathematical instruction, ensuring they are equipped to nurture a strong foundation in mathematics within their young students.
Science in the Montessori Classroom
Saturday, May 18, 2024,
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (CST)
In person instruction, in a Model Classroom
$85.00
Join us in this workshop which is specifically crafted for Montessori early childhood educators. It aims to equip teachers with strategies to introduce complex scientific concepts in a manner suitable for young minds. The workshop emphasizes exploratory learning, seamlessly connecting scientific principles with real-world experiences and enhancing the natural curiosity of children. Educators will delve into physical science with practical life extensions and receive guidance on presenting Dr. Montessori's cosmic education philosophy at the early childhood level.
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Workshop highlights:
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Developmentally Appropriate Introduction to Science: Teachers will learn how to simplify complex science ideas so they resonate with young learners, ensuring these concepts are introduced in an age-appropriate and engaging way.
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Exploratory Learning Techniques: The workshop will offer methods to teach science content through exploration and discovery. Educators will be trained to create experiences where children can learn scientific principles through hands-on experiments and observations, making science an integral part of their daily life.
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Physical Science through Practical Life: An extension of practical life activities will be explored, focusing on physical properties such as magnetism and buoyancy. Teachers will learn how to deepen children's understanding of these concepts beyond simple demonstrations, facilitating a more profound appreciation and comprehension of physical science.
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Cosmic Education in Early Childhood: Participants will receive insights on how to weave Dr. Montessori's cosmic education framework into their science curriculum. This includes fostering a sense of connectedness and belonging in children, and helping them understand their place in the universe through the study of science.
Workshop Format:
This workshop will be highly interactive, featuring a combination of theoretical discussions, practical demonstrations, and collaborative planning. Educators will engage in hands-on activities designed to be replicated in their classrooms, fostering a tangible connection between scientific concepts and everyday experiences.