AMI or AMS? teacher training

[carmel23]

Hi Montessorians...

Quick question... I am interested in pursuing a Montessori certificate (or credential, not sure what they're called) for teaching either toddlers (18months to 3 years) or primary (3-6 years).  There is both an AMS or AMI program in my city.  I am leaning towards the AMS training because it is *right* next to my kids' school.... and probably cheaper.  I might even be able to get a job through this organization since I know the owner of the school. 

the AMI training is kind of far from my home and *very* pricey... and I probably can't get someone to sponsor me.....

Is there a huge difference?

Thanks!

-Carmel :)

[Sundrapeal]

Hi Carmel,

The AMI program is an international program that was founded by Maria Montessori.  It is more expensive and more intensive.  The AMS program is an American based training program that broke off from AMI.  Both programs are good.  AMI is very strong on teaching the theory and understanding the "why" of what we do in Montessori.  The AMS program teaches a more flexible, free thinking approach.  I have seen AMI teachers get stuck in the theory so much so that they cannot see the child.  On the flip side I have seen AMS teachers be so free in there approach that the activities they are doing do not belong in a Montessori classroom.  You should research both and see which approach is more compatible to your beliefs and approach.  One final thing, the biggest advantage to taking the AMI training would be that any Montessori school will hire you.  If you take the AMS training an AMI school will not hire you.  So, if you have more AMI schools in your area, it would be worth your while, and money to take the AMI training.  

[carmel23]

I keep going back and forth.  As soon as I decide on one, then reverse my decision.  Oh, this is harder then I though. ....

[Sundrapeal]

I feel for you!  They are both good but you can't go wrong with the AMI training.  Good luck to you!

[carmel23]

Originally Posted by Sundrapeal 

I feel for you!  They are both good but you can't go wrong with the AMI training.  Good luck to you!

I think this is what I am concluding... Thanks for your input! 

[Drummer's Wife]

I'm AMI trained (0-3) and loved it a lot. It's quite a bit of work - more than AMS training, from what I've heard, b/c we made our own albums vs. being given them already put together. AMI is more in tune with Maria Montessori's ideals, but there are good things about AMS as it's not quite as rigid, if that makes sense. That's something many parents aren't sure about - the little room for using materials different ways, for example.

Good luck figuring it all out.


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[mad4mady]

Hope you don't mind me asking a question on your tread but, I am wondering how much it cost to become montessori trained. I am guessing it depends on area...I am in CA.

[Sundrapeal]

AMI training in California is about 10,000.  I don't know about AMS.  You can do a google search in your area to see what is available.  Good luck!

[carmel23]

In Oregon is is about the same for AMI--10,000 bucks.  AMS here in Oregon is about 4,500, not including books. 

[mad4mady]

Thank you

[jillmom]

AMI is world recognized... it was started by Dr. Montessori herself, so it is the TRUE method of teacher training.  I did my AMI and yes, it is A LOT of work, but worth it.