AMI 6-12 Orientation Course

Next Course Coming: Fall of 2026

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Course Overview

The AMI 6-12 Orientation Course is designed for assistants, support staff and guides at other levels who want to know more about the child from 6-to-12-years of age. The course will provide you with the essential knowledge and practical skills you need to become effective and supportive in your work with children. We will focus on the unique needs of the 6-to-12-year-old child and the role of the adults in guiding them toward independence.

The AMI 6-12 Orientation Course provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of the 6-to-12-year-old child, learning how to help create a peaceful environment conducive to their growing interest in the world around them.

Blended Course Format

  • 33 hours online synchronous
  • 27 hours independent study (approximately 4.5 hours per week)
  • 9 additional hours of observation in an elementary Montessori environment

Dates: 2026 Dates Coming Soon

Technical Requirements

  • Materials and course work, as well as course communication, will be delivered using Populi.
  • Asynchronous work must be completed on time to maintain attendance.
  • The course requires access to the internet, a general ability to use computers and a willingness to use and learn Zoom and the Populi platform.
  • Devices used to join the synchronous classes must have a working camera and microphone.
  • Attendance from a vehicle will not be permitted.

Course Work

  • The course work consists of lectures, participation in discussion groups, submission of 3 reflection papers (500 words), 9 hours of observation, submission of compiled observation reports, 90% attendance for synchronous sessions, 100% participation in asynchronous activities.
  • Students will arrang\e their own observation experience with approval from the trainer.

Course Fee

The course fee to be announced

Course Lecture Topics

  • The Story of Dr. Montessori
    • A Timeline of Maria Montessori
    • Contributions of Mario Montessori
  • Theory of Human Development
    • Human Needs and Tendencies
    • Self Construction
    • The Four Planes of Development
    • Characteristics of the Second Plane
  • The Plan for the Elementary Child
    • Cosmic Education
    • Imagination
    • Storytelling
    • Key Lessons
    • The Role of the Disciplines
    • The Practice Society
    • Going Out
  • The Prepared Environment
    • The Physical Environment
    • Freedom and Responsibility
  • The Adult
    • Preparation of the Adult
    • The Role of the Adult
  • A Practical Guide to Observation
  • Additional Practical Activities
    • Movement and Rhythm with Children
    • Singing with Children
    • Tools of Responsibility
    • Handwork in the Elementary Classroom

Required Reading

To be provided digitally as the course progresses.