AGE RANGE
Birth to 3 years
Work with infants and toddlers provides an unparalleled view of the marvel of early human development. MECR students learn to design, prepare, and interact appropriately in environments especially designed to make the most of the child’s tremendous potential in these early years. Emphasis is placed on the role of the adult as an assistant to the child and the family in the development of positive adult-child relationships.
ACADEMIC DATES
June 8 – July 24 , 2020 — 8:45 – 4:15 M-F (no classes July 3)
PRACTICUM DATES
August 2020 – May 2021
SEMINARS
Three weekends (Friday through Sunday): November, February and May
APPLICATION FEE
$250 non-refundable ($150 before May 1)
TUITION
$8,000 – includes course handouts, seminars, AMS & MACTE student fees.
Self-directed interns will receive additional Field Consultant visits at an additional cost of $800. *Credit Card payments are accepted for all fees, but for Credit Card charges above $700 there will be an added processing fee of 3%.
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TEACHERS
Melody Patton (Infant and Toddler Course Coordinator and Practicum Coordinator), Susan Tracy McDaniel, Alice Renton, Lisa Russell, Elizabeth Houghtaling, Kymm Garcia
CURRICULUM
Child Development, Montessori Philosophy, Pedagogy and Environmental Design, Observation, Personal Growth, Child, Family & Community, Program Leadership, Student Teaching Practicum
PREREQUISITE
A BA or BS degree is required to be eligible for an AMS Infant and Toddler teaching credential. Those without a BA or BS will earn an Associate AMS Infant and Toddler credential.
Overview Course required for students who do not hold an AMS, AMI or MACTE recognized Montessori Early Childhood Credential.
Summer Academic Phase (7 weeks)
Classes cover Montessori philosophy, theories of child development, environmental design, classroom management, administration, and issues relating to child, family and community. The program includes lectures, demonstrations, discussions, and observation sessions. Students prepare detailed resource manuals in each curriculum area and design materials for the child’s environment. Instructors are supportive and bring a diversity of experience and expertise to their classes.
Student Teaching Practicum (9 months)
The practicum is a key component of the student’s preparation. Generally, the student is paid a stipend as an assistant or lead caregiver. There are three practicum models:
1. Infant Concentration (Birth to 18 months)
2. Toddler Concentration (18 months to 3 years)
3. Infant and Toddler (Birth to 3 years)
Practicum Arrangements
MECR assists in finding practicum positions. Final arrangements are the responsibility of the student and the participating school/center and must be approved by MECR. AMS affiliated centers are preferred.
A MECR field consultant maintains monthly contact with the student teacher, including at least three onsite visits to observe the student working in the classroom. At least 3 visits and 2 consultations are required for self-directed practicum students.