Holding Multitudes:
a Montessori approach to complexity, curiosity, and intentional action
Montessori practice calls on teachers and leaders to stay curious and open—observing and wondering before deciding and acting. This requires consciously overriding our default thinking patterns, a discipline that lies at the heart of Montessori pedagogy. In doing so, we not only uphold the method, but model for our students the habits of thoughtful, flexible problem-solvers prepared to meet the unknown challenges of the future.
Purpose & Intention
This training invites participants to slow down, examine their assumptions, and strengthen their ability to hold complexity, multiple perspectives, and uncertainty with clarity and care. The intention is to cultivate reflective, responsive adults who can meet children—and one another—with curiosity, discernment, and integrity.
Course Description
In this course, participants will:
Practice observing and reflecting before acting, strengthening the habit of curiosity at the core of Montessori pedagogy
Engage in hands-on activities such as creating visual webs of social dynamics to explore relationships, patterns, and multiple perspectives
Map curricular integration experiences to understand better how disciplines interconnect within the Montessori framework
Examine real-world classroom and leadership scenarios, categorizing and discussing responses to move beyond “good/bad” thinking toward thoughtful discernment
Explore personal and collective thinking patterns that influence decision-making and leadership
Develop strategies for holding complexity, ambiguity, and tension with clarity and intention
Leave with practical tools for reflective practice that support responsive teaching, collaboration, and leadership
Participants & Time
Participants: Lead Guides, Assistant Guides, Leaders who want to support their educators with implementation
Time: 1-hour overview or 3-hour in-depth workshop