Over the years, AMS has received numerous inquiries from organizations and individuals in India, a country with over 400 Montessori schools, all eager to establish Montessori teacher education programs that meet our high affiliation standards and rigorous credentialing processes. Professional growth and development among teachers is essential, and the Montessori method is increasingly resonating within India’s evolving early education landscape. We are fortunate to already have many AMS credentialed teachers in India, along with active members working in schools and various educational environments. After more than two years of careful planning, AMS embarked on a visit to India, marking an important first step—a journey of discovery and learning—to explore how we can strengthen Montessori education in India while supporting the high standards AMS upholds.

Five of us from AMS embarked on this journey, and we returned with a wealth of knowledge, deep connections, and invaluable insights into Montessori education’s global impact.

The AMS delegation was composed of passionate and dedicated individuals:

Meher Van Groenou
Director, Montessori School at Five Canyons, Castro Valley, California
Director, AMS-affiliated TEP, Montessori Institute of Advanced Studies
Member, AMS Community Engagement Action Committee (CEAC)

Anita Hanks
Head of School, Starwood Academy of Frisco, Frisco, Texas
Executive Director, AMS-affiliated TEP, North Texas Montessori Institute
Vice President, AMS Board of Directors

Geoffrey Bishop
Executive Director, Nature’s Classroom Institute and Montessori School
Executive Committee / Member-at Large, AMS Board of Directors

Gina Lofquist
AMS Senior Director of Education & Strategic Initiatives

Munir Shivji
AMS Executive Director

Learning from Maria Montessori’s Time in India

India holds a special place in Montessori history. During Dr. Montessori’s time in India from 1939 to 1946, Maria found fertile ground to spread her educational philosophy at the invitation of the Theosophical Society, which was using the Montessori method to successfully combat illiteracy. In particular, Maria emphasized the potential of education to shape a child’s future and the nation’s progress.

Our visit reaffirmed that Dr. Montessori’s legacy continues to thrive in India, particularly as the country embraces its National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which prioritizes Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). The policy’s emphasis on brain development before the age of six, play-based learning, and holistic child development aligns with Montessori’s principles. The growing middle class and urbanization are driving a surge in interest among parents, making Montessori education a vital part of India’s rapidly evolving education sector.

Event Highlights and Educational Impact

During our trip, AMS hosted two Montessori professional development events in Delhi and Bengaluru. These seminars, attended by over 300 participants from across India, sparked thought-provoking discussions and deep learning. In Delhi, we had the opportunity of interacting with educators passionate about Montessori’s method, which they see as a transformative tool for nurturing young minds. The Bengaluru event further emphasized this point, as educators shared their successes and challenges in applying Montessori principles in their classrooms.

The discussions at both events underscored the importance of high-fidelity Montessori practice. As we continue our global work, it is AMS's goal to ensure that future teacher education programs (TEPs) in Asia and beyond uphold these standards. The demand for high-quality Montessori teacher training is growing, and we are committed to supporting this transformation through AMS-affiliated TEPs.

Exploring India's Rich Montessori Legacy

Our travels took us through vibrant cities steeped in history and rich cultural heritage. In Old Delhi, we explored the bustling streets via rickshaw, walked to the Jama Masjid, and visited the spice market. This sensory experience reminded us of the importance of Montessori’s emphasis on engaging all the senses in learning. We took time to visit the Lotus Temple and Montessori schools, and drove 4 hours each way to see the Taj Mahal, which is made of marble and was built in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, wife of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.

In Ahmedabad, we visited the Shreyas Foundation, where Montessori philosophy blends seamlessly with the values of empathy, self-sufficiency, and recognition of one's true potential. The Foundation's integration of Gandhian principles with Montessori’s methods was a testament to the lasting impact of Montessori’s time in India.

Bengaluru, known as the 'Silicon Valley of India,' provided another highlight as we visited the Spastics Society of Karnataka. This organization’s Montessori programs serve children with developmental delays, demonstrating how Montessori education can be adapted to meet the diverse needs of all learners.

Finally, we made a meaningful visit to the Theosophical Society in Chennai, where Dr. Montessori lived and worked. The Society’s beautiful grounds and historical significance offered a poignant reminder of Montessori’s commitment to global peace, education, and human development.

A Global Future for Montessori

India’s early education sector is transforming, and the Montessori method is gaining traction as part of this evolution. The NEP 2020 aims to strengthen early childhood education, providing a framework that aligns closely with Montessori’s vision. As we look to the future, AMS is committed to supporting high-fidelity Montessori education worldwide, ensuring that every child has access to the transformative power of Montessori learning.

Our journey to India was a profound reminder of Montessori’s enduring legacy and the vital role we play in shaping the future of education on a global scale. We return with renewed energy and inspiration, ready to continue our work to ensure that AMS and Montessori education flourish around the world.

We are deeply grateful to our consultant, Roelie Hartwig, Guide and AMS India Travel Consultant, Montessori Tours and Travels, whose expert planning and seamless management of logistics made this entire journey not only possible but truly impactful.