Course Descriptions - Infant & Toddler
The course descriptions, student-faculty contact hours and type of instruction are as follows: (hours listed are the required minimums)
Child Development (45 hours)
This course focuses on the child's innate ability to grow and develop from conception to three years. We will review the latest research in many areas of development, including brain development, as well as findings in language, physical and emotional development. We will use the cognitive learning theories of Piaget, Vygotsky, the stages of emotional development of Erikson, Mahler and Greenspan, physical and language development as written by The Caplans, the attachment studies of Ainsworth and the development of positive self-esteem as written by Clarke. All of these theories will be studied as elements of the overall philosophy of Montessori as she talks about the child as the ultimate constructor of the self.
Montessori Philosophy (30 hours)
This course will examine the life and work of Maria Montessori with a focus on the very young child. Students will read and discuss Montessori texts and her views on the nature of the child and the learning process, the goals of education, "planes of development", the vital concepts of the "absorbent mind" and the "sensitive periods", the "spiritual embryo", the role of adults, independence, and the idea of the "nido" as a learning environment.
Environmental Design (38 hours)
The importance of the environment as the basis for growth and development is a key concept of the Montessori approach. Montessorians devote great attention to the preparation of environments that will facilitate the physical, social, emotional, spiritual and cognitive development of children from birth to three. The design of environments that nurture infants and toddlers will be addressed with reference to space, aesthetics, furnishings, manipulative materials, age groupings, human interactions, adult-child ratios and safety.
Child, Family and Community (16 hours)
As the first caregivers of the child outside the home environment, and the fact that we may spend more waking hours during the week with children than they spend with their own families, it is essential that we are aware of all the factors which affect the lives of the children. This course explores the relationships caregivers have with families and the community. Students discuss the emotional bridges built consciously and unconsciously with children and their families. Topics include the psychology of parenthood, interactions with parents, health and nutrition, and community resources.
Montessori Pedagogy (15 hours)
Pedagogy is the art, science and practice of teaching. This course will make the connection between Montessori philosophy and environmental design. Basically, this is about "why we do what we do" and "how we do what we do" and includes everything we do with and for the children.
Programming, Leadership and Administration (15 hours)
This course explores the operation of a childcare center or school from an administrative point of view. Topics include scheduling, staffing, financing and fees, standards, legislation and regulation, as well as the human needs specific to the implementation of full-day care.
Observation Techniques (36 hours)
Montessori believed that careful observation is the foundation for understanding the nature of the child and the child's needs. This course introduces informal and formal observation techniques. Students practice observing, recording and interpreting the behavior of infants and toddlers in various settings, including parttime and all-day programs.
Personal Growth (15 hours)
This series of classes is designed to support the personal and professional growth of students during the academic phase and the student teacher practicum. There will be sessions to prepare for the year's coursework and the practicum expectations, as well as opportunities for students to express feelings and questions about their role as caregivers of very young children. Goal-setting, stress management and personal time management are addressed.