During the first plane of the development, children enjoy and experience the world. Dr. Montessori calls this as the stage of “absorbent mind,” meaning that the child’s innate nature is sponge-like -absorbing everything from the environment.
At this age, children have a strong desire for physical independence. The first plane of development is marked by sensitive periods for the acquisition of specific skills. Children are uniquely motivated to acquire a specific ability. Sensitive periods occur naturally in each child’s development.
Sensitive periods include movement of gross motor and fine motor, language, toileting, order, grace and courtesy. They constantly and eagerly absorb information from everything and everyone around them, and learn naturally and effortlessly.
The second plane of development is characterized by a thirst for knowledge and a strong desire for intellectual independence.
At this age, children begin searching for moral order and develop their conscience, or sense of right and wrong. children develop the sense of fairness. And it's the right time to guide them towards Emphathy for all.
During this stage, children are encouraged to explore their place within the world, and appreciate the inter-connectedness of all things around them.
The Reasoning Mind: children eventually grow out of the absorbent stage of development. At this point they become more group-oriented, imaginative. They think more abstractly and logically. As a result, they begin to ponder moral questions and consider what role they might play in society.
During this plane children develop a period for critical thinking begin to explore deeper moral and social values, with emotions of
self-concern and assessment.
Children have a deep desire for emotional independence at this stage of development.
During this stage, the child works on constructing his/her social connection, feels the need to participate and have more control over their life which is marked by both physical and psychological upheaval, through puberty and transitions heading towards the independence of life in society at large.
Montessori schools support children in this stage with mixed age classrooms that allow them to develop socially by working together and mentoring younger students. The classroom also includes materials about the practical subjects that interest children in this age group.
The fourth plane of development is characterized by the young adult working on their spiritual self or constructing a higher-level of
self-understanding.
During this time, the young adult discovers their place within the world. Dr.Maria Montessori proposed that learning at this point shouldn’t emphasize scholarship. Instead, it should be connected to skills that will prepare the adolescent to transition to the adult world.