praxis:
noun
prax·is | \ ˈprak-səs \plural praxes\ ˈprak-ˌsēz \
1: ACTION, PRACTICE: such as:
a: exercise or practice of an art, science, or skill b: customary practice or conduct
2: practical application of a theory
Praxis lectures are lectures given during Montessori teacher training courses. They are intensive studies of Montessori theory and lessons on materials used in the Montessori classroom.
Philosophy and Theory
In this 40-60 hour course, participants gain a deep understanding of the philosophical and theoretical foundations of Montessori praxis. By a close reading and explication of texts along with positioning our understanding in practical, accessible practices in the learning studio, teachers learn how to imbue every material and opportunity the child can choose with the characteristics of authentic, child-driven learning.
Practical Living
This 40-60 course provides an understanding of the importance of “big work” in the Montessori studio and a pathway for providing experiences that lead children to manage their little children’s house. In addition to materials and experiences, we establish an understanding of social cohesion, care of self, others, and the environment, indoors and out.
Sensorial
This 40-hour course provides an introduction to the mathematical mind. We explore and give a close reading of Creative Development in the Child V 1, and The Discovery of the Child, and The 1946 London Lectures, among others. Through close reading, we see that Montessori addresses some of our most common questions about how to present lessons, how children use the materials, including what to protect and when, if necessary, to step in. Additionally, graceful, concise lessons are a vital part of our work in sensorial, which Montessori describes as a series of experiments. Like any group of scientists, we practice those experiments.
Language
In this 40-60 hour course, participants learn how the brain develops, especially regarding language and communication (receptive and expressive). In addition to Dwyer”s work, we deeply analyze Montessori’s writing and current research on how verbal and non-verbal communication, phonemic awareness, and a literacy-rich home and school environment are crucial for total reading. In addition to games for storytelling, poems, songs and phonemic awareness, Montessori chalkboards, sandpaper letters, moveable alphabet, and metal insets as experiences necessary for language development.
Child Development
In this 40 hour course, participants learn the theorists from the last 100 years whose work shaped current thinking and practices on child development. Then we situate Montessori among the field of theorists. Participants learn current thoughts on child development from outside the Montessori world and understand Montessori’s prescient guidance for teachers and parents.
Art, Music, Movement: Creative and Imaginative Energies
This 40-hour course exposes participants to Montessori oft-mistaken position on the role and importance of the child’s imagination. We look closely at reading from The 1946 London Lectures, The Discovery of the Child, and other selected readings that explain what types of opportunities the children need in order to nourish their intelligences and geniuses.
Montessori with Jana 