https://teamtut.com/blog-%26-payments/f/ our- children’s-gifts-montessori-teaching OUR CHILDREN'S GIFTS – MONTESSORI TEACHING A child's brain functions differently than an adult's brain. Children's brains are shaped by their sensory experiences, creating neural networks that endure a lifetime. We have a wonderful opportunity since our encounters with young people help form who they will be in the future. Experiences may all be gifts. It's common for the most meaningful experiences to be the most basic. We have the chance to take a moment to slow down and truly be there with the little ones in our lives amidst the hustle of this season. We receive a fresh perspective and give our children the greatest gift of all: our undivided attention when we are receptive to their astonishment and joy. SENSITIVE PERIODS Are fundamental to understanding how children learn and develop in the Montessori approach. These periods are characterized by heightened sensitivity and receptivity to specific stimuli or experiences, during which children are particularly inclined to acquire certain skills or knowledge. Maria Montessori observed that during these critical periods, children exhibit a natural curiosity and eagerness to engage with particular activities or concepts. By providing an environment rich in opportunities for exploration and learning, educators can capitalize on these sensitive periods to support children's development holistically. Each sensitive period corresponds to a specific area of development, such as language acquisition, sensory exploration, or refinement of movement. For example, during the sensitive period for language, children may show a keen interest in spoken language and begin to absorb vocabulary and grammatical structures effortlessly. Similarly, during the sensitive period for sensory exploration, children may delight in exploring different textures, colors, and sounds, laying the foundation for perceptual development. Montessori teachers seek to foster and encourage children's innate inclinations toward learning as well as self-discovery by acknowledging and respecting these delicate times. This involves providing carefully curated materials and activities that align with the child's developmental needs and interests, allowing them to explore and engage at their own pace and level of readiness. In essence, the concept of sensitive periods underscores the importance of timing and individualized learning experiences in the Montessori approach. By understanding and responding to these critical periods, educators can optimize the learning process, foster a love of learning, and lay the groundwork for a lifetime of intellectual and personal growth. At Team Educational Institute, we understand how critical it is to provide the most training available for Montessori teachers. From understanding the principles of child development to applying Montessori instruments and methods with proficiency, our comprehensive curriculum is designed to cover every aspect of Montessori education.