Sensitive Periods

Every child develops at a unique pace. Talents, interests, and ways of exploring the world are all individual. However, there is an important concept in the Montessori method that unites all children: sensitive periods. It is during these phases that children are particularly receptive to certain skills and master them with remarkable ease.

What are sensitive periods, and how do we take them into account?

The existence of sensitive periods was established by neuroscientists in the 20th century. Although the time frames may vary, here are the developmental stages of preschoolers that researchers most frequently identify:

• Language — 0−6 years
• Movement — 0−4 years
• Order — 1−3 years
• Sensorial Exploration — 0−6 years
• Small Objects — 1−4 years
• Social Interaction — 3−6+ years

We integrate these characteristics into our programs for each age group at Montessori Hub:

• Nido and Baby & Me (up to 2 years): Together with their parents, babies become familiar with a new environment, educators, and peers. The main focus is on developing gross motor skills, confident walking, and readiness for independent activities.
• Toddler (1.5−3 years): At this stage, children learn independence and engage in practical life exercises to develop fine motor skills and concentration. An organized, orderly environment with clear sequences of actions is also important for them.
• Primary (3−6 years): The primary goals for this group are socialization and the development of academic skills in preparation for transitioning to school. However, at this age, children still explore the world through their senses. Therefore, instead of traditional lessons, classwork is conducted using sensory materials. The children study math, language, science, and creativity in an interactive format.

Why are mixed-age groups an advantage?
In line with the concept of sensitive periods, children in Montessori classes are grouped by developmental stages: 1.5−3 years and 3−6 years. This approach creates a natural environment for knowledge exchange: younger children observe older peers, adopt their skills, and learn to work with materials, while older children reinforce their knowledge by helping younger ones and developing leadership qualities.

Spending several years in a group allows a child to progress through all stages—from a newcomer mastering pouring and transferring to a mentor who can demonstrate multiplication and division. Children unlock their potential by trying out various social roles, which fosters responsibility and self-confidence.

At Montessori Hub, we create an environment where each child grows in harmony with themselves and the world around them, finding joy in learning!