Parent-Child Playgroup
Facilitator Training
A comprehensive 40-hour certificate course designed for assistants, administrators, parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in facilitating Montessori-inspired parent-child playgroups for children aged 2 months to 18 months. Gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to create meaningful, enriching playgroup environments that foster connection, independence, and joy for young children and their families.
What You'll Learn:
Foundations of Montessori philosophy and how it applies to parent-child playgroups.
Techniques for observing and supporting developmental milestones in young children.
Strategies for fostering connection and collaboration between parents and children.
Practical skills for planning and implementing engaging age-appropriate activities.
Insights into managing group dynamics and creating a welcoming, supportive space.
Course Structure:
Total Duration: 40 hours over one month
24 hours of online synchronous learning via Zoom
16 hours of in-person retreat at Dundas Valley Montessori School
9 additional hours of observation (scheduled independently by participants)
Schedule: April 2025
Online Sessions: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6-9pm EST (April 1-29)
In-Person Retreat: May 2-3, 9am-5pm EST (Dundas Valley Montessori School, Dundas, ON)
Program Highlights:
Expert facilitators: Kate Millie (PhD student, M.Ed., AMI 0-6) and Kristy Adams (B.A., AMI 0-6).
Interactive, engaging format combining live discussions, self-paced learning, and hands-on practice.
Required readings from leading Montessori experts, including Understanding the Human Being by Silvana Montanaro and The Montessori Toddler by Simone Davies.
Certification requirements include reflection papers, participation, and observation reports.
Certification:
Participants who complete all requirements — including 90% attendance for synchronous sessions, 9 hours of observation, and submission of reflection papers and observation reports — will receive a certificate of completion.