Training Center Events
6-12 Zoom In: Handwork as History
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 6-12 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session.
Handwork as History: Join us to explore historical handwork! During this Zoom-In, we will be demonstrating and discussing handwork related to images on the new first and second human timelines as well as other historical handwork. With Cosmic Education, handwork can be placed in historical perspective and utilized as the "hook" to enthuse and excite the children. For those attending the synchronous section, access to the presentation power point and videos of some of the handwork presentations are included (for two weeks after the presentation).
Montessori & the Science of Literacy Series
This three-part series connects Montessori’s 3–6 classroom practices with the Science of Reading, offering a clear framework for understanding how reading develops. From building foundational skills to fostering fluent, joyful readers, participants will gain tools to support every stage of early literacy.
The Path to Total Reading: In the final session, educators will expand their understanding of what it means for a child to become a fluent, confident reader. We’ll examine how vocabulary development, comprehension, and a love of language grow over time, and what role the teacher plays in cultivating these capacities. By connecting Montessori’s concept of “total reading” with current literacy science, guides will be better equipped to observe reading development, adapt their support, and guide children toward independent, joyful, and meaningful reading.
AMI Regional Refresher: Montessori Observation and Recordkeeping
Do you ever ask yourself, “What do I do with all of these observation notes?” Find out in this in-person, 2-day workshop, led by AMI 3-6 Trainer Molly O’Shaughnessy and guest speaker Rachel Hansen Morris. This workshop focuses on using scientific observation to effectively respond to the developmental needs of young children in a 3-6 Montessori setting. Participants will strengthen their ability to implement Montessori Observation and Record Keeping tools, including Family Communication Forms, to support comprehensive child assessments and foster collaborative communication between educators and families. This workshop meets the requirements for an AMI Refresher Course for participants who also hold an AMI 3-6 Diploma.
Infant & Toddler Emotional Security & Developmental Trauma Series: Emotional Development
This 3-part series will explore the critical building blocks of emotional development, beginning in the first three years of life. Participants will learn how early experiences shape attachment styles and establish enduring emotional patterns. The series will also examine how Montessori prepared environments contribute to a child's sense of basic trust during the formative early years. Discover the significant and long-term consequences of developmental trauma on a child's physical, emotional, and social development.
Emotional Development: Explore how infants and toddlers begin to make meaning of their experiences and emotions. Deepen understanding of developmental milestones and how to support young children in recognizing, processing and contextualizing their feelings in the early years.
Infant & Toddler Emotional Security & Developmental Trauma Series: Basic Trust
This 3-part series will explore the critical building blocks of emotional development, beginning in the first three years of life. Participants will learn how early experiences shape attachment styles and establish enduring emotional patterns. The series will also examine how Montessori prepared environments contribute to a child's sense of basic trust during the formative early years. Discover the significant and long-term consequences of developmental trauma on a child's physical, emotional, and social development.
Basic Trust: Discover attachment theory and how it integrates with 0-3 Montessori education. The development of basic trust in the first year of life is a foundation for lifelong emotional resilience. Reflect on how nurturing relationships and consistent care can help infants and toddlers grow into optimistic individuals who see the world as safe, supportive, and full of possibility.
Lessons in the Casa: Practical Life
Jennifer Shields, AMI Primary Trainer, and Andrée Rolfe, AMI elementary-trained Inclusion Consultant and Teacher Educator, are thrilled to again offer this unique, four-part virtual study series designed to support primary guides as they consider how to adjust lessons for children with specific learning needs. This session will focus on lesson adaptations in the area of Practical Life for children who have challenges with language development, auditory or visual processing, sensory needs, or attention and executive function. This series is designed for primary guides and administrators who embrace the challenge, are interested in expanding their knowledge base, and are eager to weave supportive adaptations into their practice.
Infant & Toddler Emotional Security & Developmental Trauma Series: Early Trauma Awareness
This 3-part series will explore the critical building blocks of emotional development, beginning in the first three years of life. Participants will learn how early experiences shape attachment styles and establish enduring emotional patterns. The series will also examine how Montessori prepared environments contribute to a child's sense of basic trust during the formative early years. Discover the significant and long-term consequences of developmental trauma on a child's physical, emotional, and social development.
Early Trauma Awareness: Understand the lasting effects of early, repeated stress or trauma and how children’s neurological pathways are formed. Comprehend how the adversity experienced in early life can lead to physical and cognitive impairment and poorer overall health throughout life. Learn how these early experiences shape brain development, behavior, and relationships and how adults can offer healing, safety, and support.
0-3 Zoom In: Exploring the Stereognostic Sense
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 0-3 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session. We’ll explore the theory and practice, answer questions, and help you fall in love with these activities all over again!
Exploring the Stereognostic Sense: Discover Maria Montessori's insights on the stereognostic sense, a crucial aspect of sensory development often overlooked in traditional education. Drawing from her work The Discovery of the Child, we'll explore how the interplay of touch and movement shapes a child's perception and understanding of the world. You'll learn how to present engaging activities that encourage exploration, manipulation, and a refinement of perception through touch and movement.
Lessons in the Casa: Sensorial
Jennifer Shields, AMI Primary Trainer, and Andrée Rolfe, AMI elementary-trained Inclusion Consultant and Teacher Educator, are thrilled to again offer this unique, four-part virtual study series designed to support primary guides as they consider how to adjust lessons for children with specific learning needs. This session will focus on lesson adaptations in the Sensorial area for children who have challenges with language development, auditory or visual processing, sensory needs, or attention and executive function. This series is designed for primary guides and administrators who embrace the challenge, are interested in expanding their knowledge base, and are eager to weave supportive adaptations into their practice.
Going Out: The Role of the Chaperone in Supporting the Independence of 6-12 Year-Olds
What is Going Out and why is it essential to the 6–12-year-old child’s development? How do we assist children to meaningfully engage in our communities while, at the same time, supporting their independence? During this workshop we will review the important components of Going Out and why this aspect of Cosmic Education is vital to the child’s development. Learn how to be a chaperone who can provide for both the children’s safety and their development in ways that align with our Montessori approach.
6-12 Zoom In: Sun & Earth
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 6-12 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session.
Sun & Earth: Let's go on a journey together around the sun and earth! Revisit this chapter of your geography album with us! This Zoom-In will be an overview of all of the work, breaking it down into its various concepts and then bringing it all together to see the full narrative story of the sun and earth. For those attending the synchronous section, access to the presentation power point and videos of the presentations are included (for two weeks after the presentation).
Assistants Workshop: Freedom & Discipline
Led by AMI trainer Jennifer Shields, this hands-on workshop will explore the pivotal concepts and practices to support children as they build self-discipline. This workshop will provide the philosophy as well as tools and techniques for providing freedom and setting clear, kind, and consistent limits so that children can live together successfully and grow into independent and social members of their community.
3-6 Zoom In…Series: The Forgotten Trio - The Silence Activity
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 3-6 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session. These often forgotten exercises of Practical Life do not have materials on the shelves, but have a powerful impact on your classroom community. Learn tips for implementation, share and problem-solve difficulties, and discover for yourself why these simple activities are invaluable for children's social and emotional development. Come see what you're missing!
3-6 Zoom In…Series: The Forgotten Trio - The Silence Activity
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 3-6 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session. These often forgotten exercises of Practical Life do not have materials on the shelves, but have a powerful impact on your classroom community. Learn tips for implementation, share and problem-solve difficulties, and discover for yourself why these simple activities are invaluable for children's social and emotional development. Come see what you're missing!
Elementary Workshop: Inclusion Confusion II
The Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a tool that can provide a lot of support and answers, but it has its limitations. The children will return to the classroom after services. Services may be interrupted. The child may no longer respond positively to interventions. Then, there are the children who did not qualify. In this workshop session, Yolanda Wheelington will share tips and strategies on what to do when children qualify and still need help. We will also discuss what to do when children do not qualify and still need help. Equally important, we will review and discuss ways you can maintain self-care while keeping Montessori first.
Lessons in the Casa: Math
Jennifer Shields, AMI Primary Trainer, and Andrée Rolfe, AMI elementary-trained Inclusion Consultant and Teacher Educator, are thrilled to again offer this unique, four-part virtual study series designed to support primary guides as they consider how to adjust lessons for children with specific learning needs. This session will focus on lesson adaptations in the area of Math for children who have challenges with language development, auditory or visual processing, sensory needs, or attention and executive function. This series is designed for primary guides and administrators who embrace the challenge, are interested in expanding their knowledge base, and are eager to weave supportive adaptations into their practice.
Lessons in the Casa: Language
Jennifer Shields, AMI Primary Trainer, and Andrée Rolfe, AMI elementary-trained Inclusion Consultant and Teacher Educator, are thrilled to again offer this unique, four-part virtual study series designed to support primary guides as they consider how to adjust lessons for children with specific learning needs. This session will focus on lesson adaptations in the area of Language for children who have challenges with language development, auditory or visual processing, sensory needs, or attention and executive function. This series is designed for primary guides and administrators who embrace the challenge, are interested in expanding their knowledge base, and are eager to weave supportive adaptations into their practice.
6-12 Zoom In: Beyond the Grammar Boxes
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 6-12 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session.
Beyond the Grammar Boxes: We will be exploring the depths of our parts of speech work, discussing the role of this work within Cosmic Education. Come prepared to dust off some of the less-presented work in our albums and be inspired by Montessori's thoughts about our grammar work: “Researching into language--its beautiful expressions, its logical order--this is so much more meaningful than a mere memorizing of the definitions of the different parts of speech. Thus, gradually the child becomes subconsciously conscious of the whole of grammar, beautifully and clearly” (Creative Development in the Child, volume 2).
0-3 Zoom In: The Power of Scribbling
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 0-3 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session. We’ll explore the theory and practice, answer questions, and help you fall in love with these activities all over again!
The Power of Scribbling: Explore the importance of scribbling for toddlers (1-2 years). Learn how these early movements help develop hand-eye coordination, fine motor control, and prepare them for writing. We'll discuss how to create an environment that encourages your toddler's artistic expression through simple presentations with art materials.
Train Montessori AMI Adolescent Diploma Course Application Deadline
Don't miss your chance to apply for Train Montessori's next AMI Adolescent Diploma Course, which will run January 2026 - March 2027! The deadline to apply for this course December 10.
This course immerses you in Montessori theory and methodology, empowering you to understand and support the natural development of adolescents ages 12-18.
Our blended course format combines both online and in-person learning experiences, allowing you to work through the vast majority of coursework from the comfort of your home environment.
Apply before the application deadline on December 10!
6-12 Zoom In: Signed Numbers
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 6-12 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session.
Signed Numbers: The early work with positive and negative numbers can start in the 6-9 classroom. This Zoom-In will focus on the preparations for and early experiences with positive and negative numbers, as well as supporting children as they come to abstraction with these concepts. Join us for an engaging exploration with the idea of signed numbers! For those attending the synchronous section, access to the presentation power point and videos of the presentations are included (for two weeks after the presentation).
Elementary Workshop: Inclusion Confusion I
Post Covid, we have seen an increase in the number of children in need of additional support and services. The numbers and needs continue to grow. Join Yolanda Wheelington to discuss inclusion in the Montessori classroom over two workshop sessions. In this session, we will explore tips and strategies for taking a proactive position while keeping Montessori first. We will have an overview of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) – what it is and is not, and how it can affect the guide. We will also dive into some of our most powerful Montessori tools and end this workshop with self-care and awareness.
Montessori Sports Fundamentals (Blended)
This AMI-accredited Montessori Fundamentals Course offers a flexible and engaging introduction to bridging Montessori principles and sports education. Designed for educators, coaches, and professionals, this course empowers participants to integrate movement and child-centered principles into their practices.
Course Dates:
Online: November 22, 2025, February 21st, 2026 and March 28th (9-11am)
In-person: April 25th & 26th (10-4)
Location: Online Via Zoom and at Montessori Center of Minnesota
What You’ll Learn
This 40-hour program will equip you with the tools and knowledge to:
Apply Montessori principles to sports and physical education.
Explore the impact of sports on child development and well-being.
Design inclusive, Montessori-aligned sports environments.
Understand and support development across all planes of growth.
Facilitate autonomy, teamwork, and confidence through child-centered movement.
Whether you’re designing curriculum or improving on-field connection with children, this course bridges Montessori philosophy with modern sports practices.
Who Should Take This Course?
This program is ideal for:
Montessori educators, teachers, and school leaders.
Physical education (PE) instructors and sports coaches.
Administrators wanting to expand student engagement strategies.
Anyone passionate about integrating movement into education.
0-3 Zoom In: Language Objects for Infants & Toddlers
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 0-3 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session. We’ll explore the theory and practice, answer questions, and help you fall in love with these activities all over again!
Language Objects for Infants & Toddlers: Learn to support early language development with this introduction to lessons on Language Objects. Understand how to introduce language through familiar objects and sensorial experiences. Discover the power of classifications to support a child's sense of order and how to seamlessly transition from concrete objects to abstract language. We'll also share valuable tips for incorporating language lessons into everyday routines and giving engaging presentations that captivate young learners.
AMI 3-6 Refresher Course: Freedom and Discipline
November 12-December 10, 2025 - Wednesdays (no meeting 11/26)
This online refresher consists of four sessions, plus four hours of observation with written reflections. Reflections are due after the sessions conclude and may be completed concurrently. Each session will explore Montessori theory and philosophy related to Freedom and Discipline, with a focus on supporting the development of self-discipline and include time for discussion, questions, and participant reflections.
Topics covered include:
- Activities for children with emerging self-discipline
- Benevolent techniques to foster discipline
- The child/guide relationship
- Montessori definitions of freedom, discipline, and obedience
- The three levels of obedience and practical support for each
- Establishing and introducing environment guidelines organically
- Using positive, consistent, and clear language
- Flexibility and benevolence in guiding behavior
- Synchronizing the roles of guide and assistant
AMI Diploma Holders completing all required aspects of the course can earn the AMI Refresher Course Certificate. All other attendees will earn a Certificate of Attendance.
3-6 Zoom In…Series: The Forgotten Trio - Walking on the Line
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 3-6 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session. These often forgotten exercises of Practical Life do not have materials on the shelves, but have a powerful impact on your classroom community. Learn tips for implementation, share and problem-solve difficulties, and discover for yourself why these simple activities are invaluable for children's social and emotional development. Come see what you're missing!
A Responsive Classroom: Montessori for ALL
Montessori IS for every child, when we know how to observe and respond. If you're finding it challenging to support neurodivergent learners, the issue isn't Montessori; it's about fully realizing what Montessori practice actually means. Join Christine Lowry and Developing Education/Breaking the Paradigm for a free webinar: "A Responsive Classroom: Montessori for ALL" on October 25 (1:00-2:15 PM EST) or November 3 (7:00-8:15 PM EST), and learn practical strategies for adapting your environment (not the child) so every student can flourish.
Essential Truths about Successful Inclusion
WMI is thrilled to host a one-day conference on unpacking the keys to successful inclusion. The conference will feature a keynote by clinical neuropsychologist and best-selling author, Dr. William Stixrud, and workshops by AMI 0-3 Trainer Erin Smith, AMI 3-6 Trainer Jennifer Shields, and Inclusion Consultant Dr. Andrée Rolfe. Gain practical guidance and a fresh perspective to support diverse learners in your classroom, community, and beyond. If you’ve been thinking about how to foster inclusion that is effective, sustainable, and meaningful, this is for you
Workshop for Primary Assistants - Washington Montessori Institute
A hands-on workshop designed for Primary Assistants who are working with children ages 3-6! Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the assistant’s essential role in the classroom, grounded in the Montessori philosophy and principles of child development. This workshop will cover the fundamentals of Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, and Math areas, offering practical strategies to support the guide in providing independence and maintaining a calm and respectful learning environment for children. This workshop is ideal for both new and experienced assistants looking to strengthen their foundation and confidence in the Montessori approach.
Montessori & Inclusion Series: Using PTR-YC to Support Children with Complex Behaviors
Prevent, Teach, Reinforce for Young Children is an excellent inclusion model for supporting children with complex behaviors, and it aligns beautifully with Montessori best practices. Presented by AMI Director of Training Sarah Werner Andrews, with special education and behavior specialists from the Multnomah Early Childhood Program (MECP), this 6 week series will introduce the Pyramid Model and help participants learn how PTR-YC can be used effectively in Montessori settings for 3-6 year olds.
Who Should Take This Course?
- All Montessori teachers and school leaders working with Preschool for All, and Preschool Promise - These are the models they use with children and families
- Guides looking for more effective strategies for complex behaviors in all children
- School Leaders who want to better support their guides and families
- Guides who want to inclusion strategies for children with high-incidence disabilities such as emotions/behavior disorders, autism, and ADHD, that really work in Montessori classrooms
Session 1: Introduction and Understanding Complex Behaviors and Your Own Responses
Learn about the Pyramid Model, the foundation for PTR-YC, and how inclusive settings support healthy social development. Learn that complex behaviors are communicative, maintained by their consequences, and occur in context. Reflect on your own responses to complex behaviors, and identify how your attitudes and beliefs can be obstacles to children’s development.
Session 2: Preventative Classroom Practices - “The Big Five”
Learn about five foundational preventative classroom practices that have a significant impact on behavior and the positive energy of a Montessori classroom. Learn how to assess your classroom-wide fidelity to these practices and uncover areas for improvement.
Session 3: Goal Setting and Observation
Learn to set goals for resolving complex behaviors through teaching replacement behaviors, and how to use observation strategies to measure and monitor progress.
Session 4: Functional Behavior Assessment
Discover when undesirable behaviors are most likely to occur, what the child gains through these negative behaviors, and how they might be unintentionally reinforced. Learn how to help the child meet their needs in socially appropriate ways.
Session 5: Developing Individualized Interventions
Learn how to use the information gathered through observation and assessments to make individualized interventions that prevent the negative behaviors, teach replacement behaviors and reinforce the positive behaviors. Learn how to make sure your interventions can be implemented effectively, and what to do if progress is not what you hoped.
Session 6: Intervention Strategies to Prevent, Teach, and Reinforce
Learn an array of intervention strategies compatible with Montessori principles and practices from the three categories of preventing, teaching, and reinforcing. Learn which strategies work best in which situations, as well as key steps and considerations for implementation.
3-6 Zoom In…Series: The Forgotten Trio - Grace & Courtesy Lessons
Are you looking for a little inspiration? This series of “micro-refreshers” for 3-6 Montessori teachers will focus on one key activity each session. These often forgotten exercises of Practical Life do not have materials on the shelves, but have a powerful impact on your classroom community. Learn tips for implementation, share and problem-solve difficulties, and discover for yourself why these simple activities are invaluable for children's social and emotional development. Come see what you're missing!
Observación para Asistentes
El taller de una hora y media, presentado en español, proveerá información y herramientas para los adultos interesados en conocer sobre la importancia de la observación y técnicas para llevar a cabo observaciones satisfactorias y de ésta manera poderle brindar al niño el apoyo necesario durante su etapa de desarrollo. El taller es orientado para el beneficio y apoyo a los niños de 3 a 6 años de edad. Se explorará los temas con una combinación de conferencia, video y diálogo en grupo.
Primary Workshop on Classroom Management - Washington Montessori Institute
Join Jennifer Shields and Lara Jacobs online for guidance on how to set expectations, develop routines, and bring children to their best selves. Through collaboration with your assistant, setting up older children to be leaders, by observing, and giving one on one, small, and large group lessons, you can be an effective leader of your primary community. Join us for inspiration and lots of practical advice you can use right away for your important work with children!
0-3 Transitions: Building Trust in Change - Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies
Cost – $30*
Location – Zoom
Enroll here: https://swinstmontessoristudies.formstack.com/forms/transitions_workshop
Transitions: Building Trust in Change
You say goodbye, and I say hello…
Learning to say goodbye and embracing new beginnings are crucial aspects of a child’s development. These two concepts are closely intertwined and play a significant role in a child’s ability to adapt to new environments. Many transitions occur when children adapt to their environment or move to Children’s House. In this webinar, we will share strategies to address attachment and separation. This session is designed for assistants, lead guides, and administrators. Through engaging sessions, participants will:
Key points:
· Aiding children in their transitions as they return after a lengthy break at home
· Integrating new staff into the already established classroom culture
· Facilitating strong communication and partnership with adults (staff and parents) returning after a lengthy break at home.
· Strategies to address attachment and separation, transitions, and communication
Your Trainer – Gabriela Velázquez:
Gabriela’s Montessori journey began as a child. Her mother was a Montessori teacher, so she grew up attending Montessori schools in México. It was only natural that upon reaching adulthood that she also decided to pursue a career in Montessori education. After completing her degree in Early Childhood Education, she earned the AMI Assistance to Infancy diploma. She would go on to work for more than 20 years in Montessori schools in México and the United States.
Gabriela completed the demanding AMI Training of Trainers program to be named an AMI Trainer at the level of 0-3 Assistants to infancy. She has worked on 0-3 teacher-training courses in Argentina, Denver, San Diego and Taiwan. She recently presented 0-3 Assistant Certificate courses in Phoenix and China. She serves as a lecturer, consultant and examiner for AMI and she is the Director of Training at Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies in Mesa, Arizona.
