Sensitive period in preschool children

In the development of each child, there is a time when he is very susceptible to some kind of activity or the formation of behavior in general. Psychologists call it a sensible period, when it is most favorable to develop any skills or feelings, to master certain knowledge. It must be remembered that this time comes and goes, and if the child does not master any material, then in the future he will have to put much more effort into it.

Sensitive period of development can not be caused, as well as delayed. One can only take advantage of the natural cycle to create the most favorable conditions for the child to master the necessary knowledge and skills to which he is located at this time. At the same time, it is worth paying attention to the fact that all children are going through such moments, and at the same time everything is very individual, that is, all these periods begin and end in different ways. However, psychologists have identified approximate age limits, which are characterized by the desire for this or that kind of activity.

Each sensitive period has three phases of development. The first is the beginning or slow build-up. Usually it is difficult to notice, if you do not deal with the child purposefully. Then there is a very bright peak of development, when the baby is happy with this particular activity, and she is very interested in it. Then there is a gradual decline. It should be noted that several similar periods can occur simultaneously, but they may have a peak at different times.

Many methods of teaching preschool children rely on knowing when the most favorable time for development and education of this particular quality or features of behavior occurs. Among them is the Montessori system, which is now very popular and has a large number of followers.

So, the longest period of development of speech lasts. It begins with a birth and lasts up to 5-6 years. It is divided into small stages for six months, for which the child learns some new skills. The result is a gradual transition from onomatopoeia to connected speech, reading and writing. In the first months after birth, the baby hears the speech addressed to him and tries to repeat certain sounds. Usually the first words are pronounced for about a year (they can consist of one syllable and little resemblance to adult speech), by 2-2,5 years the active formation of the dictionary begins. With normal development and regular studies at 4 years old, the baby can consciously use speech, learn letters and sounds. It is at this time that the child can already learn to write and read.

Sensitive period, during which an active sensory development takes place , can also last for several years. It begins already in the period of newborn and lasts up to 5-5.5 years. It also consists of several stages.

Maria Montessori, a famous educator, at one time singled out a sensible period of perception of order. The peak is usually 2-2.5 years. This includes the establishment of the regime of the day (although many have been formed since the year), and communication with adults and peers. Naturally, the order should be in the room where the baby is. It is at this time that it is already possible to give him small assignments, teach to remove toys, etc. It is important to note that the periods of the child's development can last slightly less or more than indicated, since each kid is individual.

After two years and almost to school, children begin to learn social skills. They are interested in this, and it is important at this moment to instill in them the skills of polite behavior, a culture of communication. Also from year to 4 years, the formation of actions and movements, which is very important, especially for further psychological development.