Sensitive Periods

Sensitive Periods

When we use the term “sensitive period” we mean a time of period when specific characteristics emerge for a certain period of time and then they disappear. That is what Dr. Montessori observed to the children. If the child needs more time, they just prolong briefly. If we know when those periods occur then we can create the environment for them to help them to develop. We can help them by providing them with the right materials to work with, freely, until they feel they accomplished it. If a sensitive period is missed, the child will be able to learn the skill but it will be more difficult.

Key sensitive periods from zero to three are language, movement, since during that period of their life whatever has to do with movement attracts their attention and interest as well as they start being sensorial explorers and gain experience of the world around them through their senses. They also start weaning and try to touch and feel different textures and tastes. Their sense of order also develops. The child requires order and points of interest in his everyday life in order to feel safe and secure and lead him to the ability to classify. What we experience in our classroom is that everything goes in their mouth! They have the need to try the taste of it and feel the texture. We do not stop them because this is what they want to do in order to fulfill their need.

There is a girl in our classroom who is almost two years old and loves water activities. But what she most enjoys is to squeeze the sponge from our washing the table activity and put it in her mouth! She probably enjoys the feeling of it and the water that comes out in her mouth. But she needs to fulfill that need, to touch, feel and taste the object. In order to prevent any hygiene issues we replace the sponges right away. This is related to sensitive periods for sensorial exploration.

The sensitive period, as Dr. Montessori said:

“It comes for a moment but it’s benefits last for a lifetime.” (Dr. Montessori)

Recommended reading: Montessori from the Start By Paula Polk Lillard