Capturing Ordinary Days: Journey to Independence
Montessori practice supports the natural unfolding of human development in the earliest years. Assistants to Infancy teachers work collaboratively with the child through the stages of acquiring abilities, using such tools as keen observation skills, a dynamic language environment and the understanding that each new level of abilities achieved becomes a stepping stone for the next. Adults gain an appreciation of what concentration looks like for children under three years of age. The teacher understands that each child’s growth is following a critical pattern established by nature and that moments of “developmental crises” that present themselves are really opportunities for moving forward to the next level. Toilet learning is approached using Montessori principles and respectfully maintaining the dignity of the child. The signs are clear when a child is ready to transition from the infant community into a primary setting.
JOURNEY TO INDEPENDENCE (21:47)
An exploration of how Montessori practice supports the natural unfolding of human development in the earliest years. This video includes topics such as the need for sharp observation skills, the importance of dynamic language, what "toddler" concentration looks like in the infant community and a brief overview of when a child is ready to transition from the infant community into a primary setting.
TOILET LEARNING (12:07)
A concise explanation of the approach to toilet learning used in Montessori environments.
Shorts: Journey to Independence
1. bead stringing (6:07)
2. hazel sets the table (5:50)
3. CLEAN UP SET UP (5:20)*
*Features All Three Levels of Practice
Delving Deeper into Our Craft: Transitions
by jUDIth A. ORION
Judi Orion, AMI Assistants to Infancy and Primary Trainer, looks at how we determine when a child’s needs require them to move from an infant community to primary setting. She carefully examines the multiple factors that underlie a successful transition......READ MORE
“When babies feel well nurtured and can rely on the comfort and warmth of their parents or other caregivers, they are taking the important first step on this important journey of learning through relationships...the ability to work with others to get what he wants gives a child the confidence to operate in a complicated world.” Stanley I. Greenspan, M.D. The Secure Child
Toilet Training Versus Toilet Learning
BY merry L. hadden
Merry Hadden explores Montessori thought on toilet learning for young children in this comprehensive and detailed article. A topic of importance to families and schools alike, this cohesive approach to toilet learning is a vital component of the Assistants to Infancy environment....READ MORE
In Her Words
In her book, The Absorbent Mind, first published in 1949, Dr. Montessori touches upon the concept that the development of self control occurs in increments over time. Her insights into the child’s three distinct stages of obedience during the process of developing his own capacity for willful compliance and intentional action can guide those of us working with very young children. In excerpts from Chapter 25: The Three Levels of Obedience, we explore her thoughts on the first level of obedience....READ MORE
Excerpts from "The Developmental Crises of the First Three Years"
BY Dr. Silvana Quattrocchi Montanaro
In her seminal work, Understanding the Human Being: The Importance of the First Three Years of Life, Dr. Silvana Quattrocchi Montanaro, has laid out a comprehensive understanding of the first years of life. These select excerpts from chapter 11, entitled “The Developmental Crises of the First Three Years,” allow us to comprehend the developmental growth of each child as following a critical pattern established by nature.….READ MORE
