What are the sensitive periods, according to Montessori theory?

There are several words used in Montessori education. Sensitive period is one of those Montessori words that can be perplexing to parents. Maria Montessori used a term coined by a Dutch biologist, Hugo de Vries (Mutation theory - 1902) to refer to key developmental stages in children. If parents are looking for Montessori training near me, they are basically looking for rightly trained teachers who can provide wholesome education to their kids. The sensitive periods are vital for growing and let’s have a better look here –

In the Secret of Childhood, Maria Montessori said-

“A sensitive period refers to a special sensitivity which a creature acquires in its infantile state, while it is still in a process of evolution. It is a transient disposition and limited to the acquisition of a particular trait. Once this trait, or characteristic, has been acquired, this special sensitivity disappears.”

The child is intensely interested in a particular topic during sensitive period. As a result, acquiring those skills related to this interest is extremely simple for the boy. The child is enthralled by the prospect of repeating those acts. This repetition will result in the development of a new ability.

Sensitive periods don't happen in a straight line and might collide. When the sensitive time ends, the overwhelming desire to learn is gone, as is the ability to learn extensively and easily. It does not imply that all is lost! It is better for a child to learn a second language during his early years, for example. If the child did not have the opportunity, learning a new language would necessitate conscious effort.

Sensitive periods, also known as window of opportunity, are a term used in neuropsychology to describe a time during which language acquisition, motion development, and cognitive perception occur. Our modern understanding of the brain suggests that there is a particular period for language acquisition, and cognitive perception. Both definitions of the term responsive period are based on the premise that children learn in a particular way in their early years and that learning should take place within a specific time frame.

Why is it crucial to understand the Sensitive Periods?

Maria Montessori urged adults to track children's behavior and actions to determine when they are in sensitive periods. Adults should protect the child's interests by observing them and providing experiences that are appropriate for their current sensitive times. Maria Montessori's sensitive periods can be used as a framework for observing the child in order to provide them with as many resources as possible. It's important to note that each child is unique, and while Maria Montessori said that some sensitive times are universal, we, as parents, might not be able to recognize them all.

Six main sensitive periods

Sensitive period to language

Maria Montessori used to say that Montessori said that “the only language men will ever speak perfectly is the one they learn in babyhood, when no one can teach them anything. This sensitive period lasts from birth (even in utero) to the age of six. The presence of a language-sensitive time has been confirmed by modern science. The window of opportunity for language learning starts to close about the age of five, according to neuroscience.

Sensitive period to movement

It lasts from birth to 5 years old. First phase – from birth to 2.5 years of age and Second phase – from 2.5 to 4.5 years of age. This coordination is acquired through repetition of purposeful motor activity by the infant. Visits to the park and other outdoor areas on a regular basis are likely to help during this sensitive period.

Sensitive period to order

From the age of one to three years old, the infant goes through a sensitive time. About the age of 18 months, it reaches its height. The child is arranging his mental schema of the world during this period. When the child's world is in order, he may organize his thoughts and orient himself.

Sensitive period to refinement of the senses

This sensitive period lasts from birth (even in utero) to the age of four years.

The brain's sensory development can last up to four years. Sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch are the five senses by which a child learns.

Sensitive period to small details and small objects

This stage lasts from one to three years. Paying close attention to details can seem to be a waste of time for our adult minds. When the child is exploring her environment during this critical time, she will become fascinated with small objects. This is when she will begin to establish her pincer grip, which involves gripping between the thumb and index fingers.

Sensitive period to social behavior or to manner and courtesy

This sensitive period lasts between the ages of two and a half and six. During this time, the child realizes that he is a member of a community.

It's time to make some new friends! Until then, the kids are playing together. They don't have a lot of interaction. The child is now increasingly learning to play cooperatively. Children must learn how to act in our society. We are our children as adults.