Sensorial Foundations of Human Development
with Liza Davis
Sensorial Foundations of Human Development
“The education of the senses is the basis of all intellectual development.” — Maria Montessori
In this two-day session, we will root ourselves in the Sensorial materials and dig deeply into their purpose, design, and transformative role in the child’s development. We will explore how these materials refine perception, support classification, and lay the groundwork for intelligence, aesthetics, and a broadening of perspective through purposeful, hands-on experience. Together, we will examine how their precise structure—isolating qualities, offering control of error, and inviting repetition—supports concentration and order, while also reflecting trauma-informed principles by fostering predictability, autonomy, and a sense of agency in the child.
Liza Davis
3-6 Trainer
Executive Director and Director of 3-6 Training, Montessori Center of Minnesota
Liza Davis attended Montessori as child and has worked in Montessori education for over 25 years as a assistant, guide, head of school, trainer, and leader. Since joining the Montessori Center of Minnesota in 2009, she has supported the growth of Cornerstone Montessori School and Cornerstone Montessori Elementary School, guided adult learners in AMI diploma and orientation courses, and helped expand access to high-quality Montessori through outreach, mentoring, and innovative course design. Her recent work has centered on trauma-sensitive practices in Montessori, reflecting an understanding of scientific research that proves the power of prepared environments to support healing and resilience. As Executive Director, she leads MCM’s efforts to broaden access to Montessori while stewarding its legacy of training, partnership, and community impact. Liza has a bachelor's degree in Art History and American Racial and Multicultural Studies, a master's degree in trauma and resilience in educational settings, an AMI 3-6 Diploma, an AMI Core Principles certificate, and an AMI Montessori for Aging and Dementia certificate.