Sensitive Periods & Normalization
Sensitive Periods
The following is a good guide to the times when a young child can best learn specific skills and concept; they do not always apply to individual children.
| Birth-Throughout life |
|
| Birth- 3 years |
Language |
| Birth-1 ˝ years |
Sensory experiences |
| 1 ˝ -3 years |
Learning through movement |
| 1 ˝-4 years |
Development of oral language |
| 2-4 years |
Development of muscular coordination |
| 2-6 years |
Concern with order in environment and routines |
| 3-6 years |
Refinement of senses, Development of social graces |
| 3 ˝- 4 ˝ years |
Sensitivity to adult influences |
| 4-4 ˝ years |
Writing, Sense of touch |
| 4 ˝- 5 ˝ years |
Reading |
The normalized child
The basic goal of the Montessori Method at Rivendale is “normalization” of the child so that he/she becomes well-balanced, spontaneous and able to utilize his capabilities to the fullest. Some of the characteristics of such a child are the following:
- Ability to concentrate well
- Sense of personal dignity
- Independence
- Self-motivation
- Love of order
- Enjoyment of repetition
- Ability to work alone
- Self-discipline
- Desire for freedom of choice
- Pleasure and fulfilment in work for its own sake; no need for rewards or punishment
- Obedience
- Preference for work over play
- Love of learning
