Creating a warm, soothing infant environment that meets the needs of the babies and the educators can be a challenge, as it requires being able to navigate naps at all times of day as well as meals/feedings, diapering and toilet learning, as well as engaged learning opportunities. I spent a decade creating and refining an infant environment for Parent-Infant classes, and have supported schools with opening and/or modifying infant rooms. I work to think through all aspects of the infant classroom, including, but not limited to: creating orders for and setting up and materials/furniture, thinking deeply about transitions as infants grow, and supporting and training staff through individualized coaching and staff workshops.
For a decade I facilitated a successful Parent-Infant program for a Montessori school. Through trial and error and a lot of feedback, I was able to create a space that parents loved (and returned to with their second and third children). My hope is that this kind of program can be available in many places around the world, so that families have a safe space to connect and learn together. I have consulted with schools and training centers on building their own programs and I am also available for observation and feedback sessions of existing or new programs as desired.
We know that so much happens in the time between walking and 3 years of age and toddler classrooms need to be flexible enough to support this rapid development in individuals as well as for the whole class community. I have worked with schools in setting up, refining, and supporting toddler classrooms in a variety of ways. Often educator support and curbing burnout is a primary need, for which I offer individualized coaching as well as staff workshop opportunities.
Respiratory Autogenic Training (R.A.T.) is a birth preparation method focused on breathing and deep relaxation that gives control to the birthing parent. Developed by Italian obstetrician Umberto Piscicelli in the 1970s, this method conditions the mind and body to relax, even in the midst of uterine contractions. In collaboration with Dr. Silvana Quattrocchi Montanaro, an Italian medical doctor and Montessorian, the method was expanded to prepare parents for birth and parenting.
In this training, students will experience the birth class as a participant, as well as focus on how to facilitate these classes with a deep focus on the social-emotional well-being of the pregnant parent and their partner. Guidance around supporting families to consider Montessori methods of parenting will also be discussed.
Courtney Baros is one of the few trainers of this birth preparation method globally.
Denver-area classes are held at The Montessori Institute and are in-person. See their events page to find out more.
Virtual or in-person trainings available upon request.
