Theory
The philosophical and developmental foundations of Montessori pedagogy -- Dr. Montessori's life, the planes of development, sensitive periods, the absorbent mind, and the prepared environment.
Dr. Montessori -- Her Life and Work
Timeline of Maria Montessori's life, contributions, and the development of her method.
Human Tendencies
The universal human tendencies -- exploration, orientation, order, communication, activity, manipulation, work, repetition, exactness, abstraction, and self-perfection.
The Four Planes of Development
The constructive rhythm of life from birth through maturity -- characteristics, needs, and sensitivities of each plane.
The Absorbent Mind
The unique capacity of the child in the first plane to absorb the environment unconsciously and then consciously.
The Sensitive Periods
Windows of intense sensitivity -- order, language, movement, refinement of the senses, social behavior, and small objects.
Adaptation
How the child adapts to the culture and environment, becoming a member of the group.
The Prepared Environment
Principles and design of the Montessori classroom -- freedom, structure, beauty, and order.
Observation
The art and practice of observing children -- what to look for, how to record, and how observation guides the adult.
Development of Movement
The relationship between movement and cognition, and how the Montessori environment supports motor development.
Development of Independence
How the environment and the adult foster the child's growing autonomy.
Freedom and Discipline
The Montessori understanding of freedom within limits and the emergence of inner discipline.
Development of the Will and Obedience
The three levels of obedience and the development of the will through purposeful activity.
Normalization and Deviations
The process of normalization through concentrated work and the recognition of developmental deviations.
Indirect Preparation
How earlier activities prepare the child for later, more complex work -- a hallmark of Montessori sequencing.
The Mixed Age Group
The rationale and benefits of a three-year age span in one classroom.
Social Development
How the child develops socially within the prepared environment and the role of the community.
The Montessori Guide
The role and qualities of the Montessori teacher -- the prepared adult.