Maria Montessori observed that there are certain times in a child’s life when it is very easy to learn a skill. Her observations are now substantiated by modern brain research, and are commonly referred to as critical periods.

As an example, when a child is in the sensitive period for language he can learn to speak and understand easily, with no formal instruction. Don’t we all wish we had learned a second language as a young child?

Montessori teachers are trained to carefully observe for signs of sensitive periods, and then answer by presenting work that will meet the needs of the sensitive period.

0-3 Years           The Absorbent Mind Period - Sensory Experience

0-6 Years           Language Development

1.5-3 Years        Coordination and Muscle Development - Interest in Small Objects

2-4 Years           Refinement of Movement  Concerns with Truth & Reality -
                        Aware of Order of Sequence

2.5-6  Years       Sensory Refinement

3-6 Years           Susceptibility to  Adult Influence

3.5-6  Years       Writing

4-4.5 Years        Tactile Sense

4.5-5.5 Years     Reading

Karen Dugmore and Mary Clements
Lakewood Montessori, Boise, Idaho

The sandpaper letters assist children in learning sounds that letters make. Children are first introduced to rough and smooth tablets in the sensorial area. Working with the rough and smooth tablets (there are several lessons) prepares the child for feeling the difference in texture.

At this time the child's hand is being prepared and trained to write. Next, the child is introduced to metal insets. "Metal insets teach the child how to organize the movement of writing, which brings him to the management of the pen" (Dr. Montessori's Own Handbook, p 146).

In practicing the small motor coordination the child gains confidence with small motor skills. As the child's interest in language progresses, the child begins work on sandpaper letters. A child is shown a letter, the letter is traced for the child, and the letter name is spoken. The child then repeats what has been shown.

The child is introduced to two different letter sounds each lesson. The teacher works with the child to learn the sounds. When a child returns for another lesson, they will review the sounds already taught. The child can be successful because they have preparation through prior experiences (sandpaper tablets, metal insets).

Dr. Montessori on sandpaper letters: “This process forms the first preparation, not only for writing, but also for reading, because it is evident that when the child touches the letters he performs movement corresponding to the writing of them, and, at the same time, when he recognizes them by sight he is reading the alphabet.” (Dr. Montessori's Own Handbook, p 152)

Karen Dugmore
Lakewood Montessori, Boise, Idaho