What are the qualifications of the Montessori teacher?
Extensive training is required for a full Montessori primary credential. Entrance requirements to approved Montessori training programs require a minimum of a university degree or a diploma in early childhood education. To be certified, Montessori early childhood teacher students must have passed written and oral exams relating to the Montessori philosophy and the presentation of Montessori materials in each of the curriculum areas. They must have education in child development for the ages of 2 ½ to 6 years and practice as a student teacher at an authentic Montessori school under the supervision of an experienced Montessori teacher. Montessori teachers are trained to recognize a child’s readiness for new lessons according to age, ability and interest. They prepare to guide individual progress through extensive observation and record keeping. In the classroom a Montessori teacher will give lessons, ensure that the environment is prepared to meet the children’s needs and act as a demons