Respiratory Autogenic Training (RAT)

Birth Class Training For Montessori Educators

TMI will be hosting a training summer 2026 at our new location in Curtis Park, Denver!

Stay Tuned for details!

What is R.A.T.?

Respiratory Autogenic Training (R.A.T.) is a birth preparation method focused onbreathing 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.

The Training

In this training, students will experience the birth class as a participant, as well as focusing 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.

While both focus on deep relaxation, the RAT birth technique is different from the technique utilized at The Montessori Institute during teacher trainings. Experience with RAT during teacher trainings is not required to take this course.

Meet Your Facilitator | Courtney Baros, M.Ed., AMI

Over the past 20 years, Courtney's work has been deeply centered around pregnancy, birth, parenting, and the young child. From co-owning a retail and resource center focused on intentional parenting, to a volunteer lactation consultant, to working in and supporting students and families at Montessori schools in Chicago and Denver. After receiving her Assistants to Infancy certification through The Montessori Institute, Courtney co-piloted PIP Studio (Pregnancy • Infancy • Parenting) at Montessori Children's House of Denver. She continues to guide PIP Studio, as she believes that thinking deeply about parenting is vital to the well-being of children.

She lives in Denver with her partner, Andre, and has 2 older sons. She is currently working toward her MA licensure in early childhood special education. She is honored to carry on Judi Orion's RAT birth preparation classes for TMI students.