Transitions are never-ending.

What happens in the time between who we were and who we are becoming?

A child moves from one stage of development to the next. A guide welcomes new students—or a new colleague. A family adjusts to change. An adolescent begins to see the world with new eyes. A school evolves. A community responds to the complexities of the world. Some transitions are carefully planned. Others arrive unexpectedly. Some are visible; others unfold quietly within us. Yet each one asks us to let go of something familiar while making room for what is emerging. There is an art to making transitions.

Transitions invite us to explore and reflect on what was and what will be. It is a time when growth, uncertainty, possibility, and transformation meet. For this AMI/USA Journal issue entitled The Art of Transitions, we are inviting stories, reflections, research, scholarship, and practical perspectives that explore transitions across educational, developmental, cultural, professional, familial, community, and later-life stages that have occurred within the context of Montessori education. We are looking to receive article submissions that epitomize how embracing the Montessori philosophy and principles help us understand, navigate, and cope with transitions.

From birth onward, development is a continuous movement toward something new. From your articles we look to learn how you may have prepared and guided children during developmental transitions while also honoring their need for continuity, security, and belonging. We want to read about how adult Montessorians have navigated times of professional and personal transitions. Some may have completed it alone, and others may have invited colleagues and communities into the process. We want to know how you may have recognized that Montessori philosophy and principles are just as valuable in the lives of maturing people. Some may be able to artfully support seniors who are struggling to hold on to their dignity while experiencing changes in memory, ability, independence, and human relationships. We would be excited to have someone share an article about how, in each stage of our lives, sports, movement, and physical activity can build confidence, identity, relationships, and community.

We look forward to receiving submissions that address these types of transitions and others, and how the Montessori philosophy and principles can guide us as we respond to the opportunities and challenges in a changing world.