Early Childhood Assistant Certification
Assistant teacher credential for supporting teachers and children in a 3-6-year-old classroom.
Montessori approach: Early Childhood Assistant Teachers.
By successfully completing this 12-week course, you will earn an IMC Early Childhood Assistant Teacher Credential for supporting teachers and children in a 3-6-year-old classroom.
Our next training cohort begins March 16th, 2026!
Our Program
The Early Childhood Assistant Certification will entail approximately 8 hours of coursework each week, including video viewing of Montessori lectures and lessons, online discussion forums, observation and/or other practical assignments to put what you are learning into practice, journaling, and a 1-hour live video class in zoom each week.
Tuition
$810
If you have previously completed the Montessori Fundamentals Professional Development Course with CGMS, please contact admissions@cgms.edu for a payment link that will provide a discounted rate.
Week 1: Introductions & Orientation.
The first week will be an orientation.
Week 2 : The History of the Montessori Method
In this week, you will study and learn about the history of the Montessori method and an introduction to philosophy and theory.
- Who is Maria Montessori?
- How did the Montessori method develop?
- Key principles of Montessori philosophy
Week 3 : Montessori Philosophy
Studying more about Montessori and developing a deeper understanding of the philosophy.
- Studying the guiding principles of the Montessori method
- What does it mean when we hear “Follow the Child?”
- What are “Sensitive Periods” in a child’s early development?
Week 4 : The Prepared Environment
The Classroom is a prepared environment.
- Learn how and why this specifically prepared environment supports learning and development
- The outdoor environment is important and requires preparation and maintenance
- Observe classroom environments and discover specifics that aid the child’s independence and development
Week 5 : Positive Classroom Culture
Developing a positive and welcoming classroom culture and how to observe a classroom.
- Creating a positive classroom culture with grace and courtesy—and how do we demonstrate and model this with the children?
- Establishing a positive classroom tone
- Using Observation as your guide for supporting children
Week 6 : Classroom & Behavior Management
Classroom management and a Montessori approach to discipline.
- What is positive discipline and how is it implemented?
- How do we redirect children’s behavior?
- Balancing freedom and responsibility
Week 7 : Classroom Roles
Classroom roles in the Early Childhood classroom.
- Learn about the roles and responsibilities of the lead teacher and the assistant teacher or guide
- Creating and defining the responsibilities for the team
- The importance of positive and frequent communication
Week 8 : Practical Life
The practical life area.
- Learn about the importance of this area in the development of the child’s independence, order, concentration, and coordination
- Review some of the lessons given in this area
- Develop a list of your responsibilities in the practical life area
Week 9 : Sensorial
The sensorial area.
- Learn how these materials support the development of the intellect and prepare the child for math and language.
- What’s a three-period lesson and how do we use that specific lesson?
- Develop a list of your specific responsibilities for the care of this area.
Week 10 : Mathamatics
The math area.
- Discover how a child’s mathematical mind grows.
- See some of the important Montessori materials in this area.
- Create your list of responsibilities for the care of the math area.
Week 11 : Language Arts
Language area.
- Discover why the classroom is a language-rich environment for children to develop vocabulary and a foundation for reading and writing.
- How is the sensitive period for language the “just-right” time for learning letter sounds?
- How you can support language development and create a list of responsibilities for this area.
Week 12 : Bias in the Classroom and Reflection
Cultural area and the Montessori community.
- What do children learn about geography, history, and science in this area and what responsibilities do you have?
- How do we create an environment where everyone is welcomed, accepted, and valued?
- Discover more about our own implicit biases and how these matter in our work.
Meet our Early Childhood Assistant team
Have you always wanted to learn from the best of the best? Look no further! Our faculty members have decades of Montessori experience as Instructors, Guides, Field Consultants, and Practicum Advisors, which means you’ll be learning from some of the top Montessori professionals in the field.
Additional Program Information
Our next training cohort begins October 24, 2022! Stay tuned for virtual information session dates.
Contact Us
Questions? Curious to learn more? Send us an email (info@cgms.edu) or call us (1-888-7897) and someone from our Admissions team will help you out!
Not sure which program is right for you? We’re here to help.
Choosing a Montessori training program is a big decision, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our Admissions Team offers personalized program advising to help you identify the path that best fits your background, goals, and timeline.
Whether you’re exploring Montessori for the first time, advancing your credentials, or transitioning into a new role, we’ll guide you through your options and answer your questions every step of the way.
