No.
1 – Earn a College Degree (if possible)
While there are sometimes
associate level certificates available in Early Childhood education for people
without a college degree, holding a Bachelor's degree (or higher) will allow
one to be eligible for a wide variety of Montessori training programs at
centers across the country. The good news is that one does not necessarily need to major in education or any related field. Montessori teachers come from diverse educational backgrounds such as the social sciences, engineering, art and design, the humanities, and more.
No.
2 – Find and Complete the Right Training Program
The first step to finding a
suitable training program is knowing which certification one eventually wants
to earn. One could specialize in Infant & Toddler education (0 – 3 years
old) or Early Childhood (2.5 – 6 years old). The skills and techniques acquired
will vary greatly depending on which certificate is pursued. Also, it's important to budget for the training program one is interested in. Montessori training can vary in final costs with the more expensive programs costing a small fortune. However, the more affordable programs typically cost about $2,000 in total.
No.
3 – Find a Teaching Position in Your Area
Once one has completed a
Montessori training program, they will be fully certified and ready to lead
your students toward success. While on the job search, they should make sure to
utilize any and all tools available.However, using an online Montessori job finder tends to be the most effective solution these days. New teachers are still encouraged to hit the ground running and exhausting other options such as contacting local schools about possible openings.
No.
4 – Adapt to the Montessori Method
Since most of us grew up
attending traditional schools, it might be a bit of a shock to an individual
coming into a Montessori teaching position. Luckily, their training will
provide a solid foundation to build on while the teacher becomes adjusted to
giving children freedom in their learning experience.
A
Bright Future
Becoming a preschool teacher in a Montessori program is rewarding, fulfilling, and gives individuals the opportunity to help shape many generations to come. While it might take a lot of hard work and dedication, it will be well worth it to become part of the Montessori teaching family!
At the Montessori Children's House in Fremont, California, our school is an Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) with an AMI Director, in additional to all of our head teachers being AMI trained. Contact us today to schedule a meeting with our teachers to discuss the Montessori teaching model and how it can benefit your child.