Early Childhood

The Early Childhood Certification course provides adult learners with the skills necessary to work with children ages 3-6 in a Montessori-prepared environment. Adult learners will have their academic experience in an enriched environment with materials designed to meet the needs of this stage of childhood development. The adult prepared at this level will support the development of personal responsibility and strong self-esteem in children, as well as intellectual development supported by the Montessori curriculum.  

Montessori training plan

The Early Childhood Course explores Montessori methodology and pedagogy in accordance with contemporary theories of child development. Sessions focus on the particularities of the Montessori Philosophy, its principles, and their application in contemporary theories of child development and psychology. The course offers training at the post-secondary level. 

The components of this Montessori training course are: 

During their academic phase, adult learners meet:

• Albums 

• Observations on environments 

• Practical exam 

• Academic tasks 

• Readings

Adult apprentices must complete an internship phase of at least 540 hours over a 9-month period. This phase of the training process will allow the adult apprentice to implement the knowledge acquired in the academic phase. 

The internship has two (2) modalities:

• Self-directed: The intern is the primary person in charge of the environment. Usually recommended for teachers with prior experience.

• Supervised: The intern practices within a prepared environment of a certified guide with at least two (2) years of experience in the environment.

Certification Requirements:

Admission process (See breakdown of important dates)

1. Admission requirements for Early Childhood candidates: BA degree from an accredited institution, college or university*.

2. Complete admission application

3. Write a two (2) page essay on computer, as indicated on the course application form

4. Submit 1 English transcript from the last degree conferred

5. Participate in the interview of candidates for Montessori training courses

6. Participate in the orientation of admitted to Montessori training courses

7. Comply with payment plans (See payment breakdown) 

*If a candidate without a high school diploma would like to complete the Infants and Toddlers and Early Childhood course only, they may receive an AMS Associate Credential after completing all academic and financial requirements of the course.

After completing the academic and practical phase, INE will recommend the student for certification with AMS. To do so, the program requires that the student:

• Complete the requirements to receive a Montessori credential:

  • Attendance

  • Academic and internship tasks; according to the Adult Learner's Handbook 

  • Approval of the internship

Montessori Credential

Adult learners from INE will receive an AMS (American Montessori Society) Montessori Guide certification at the Early Childhood level upon completion of all requirements. As of 2012, the Puerto Rico Department of Education recognizes this as a valid Montessori credential and grants a "Montessori Teacher Credential": an authorized credential for teaching in PR public schools.