4th Plane of Development: Maturity from 18 years to 24 years

What are the planes of development? 

In her research, Dr. Montessori observed that children go through “phases” of development and that monumental changes occur as they move through each one. Each plane has unique characteristics.

• 1st Plane of Development: Infancy or Early Childhood from Birth to Age 6
  • Sub-planes:
    • Birth to 3 - The Unconscious Absorbent Mind
    • 3 to 6 - The Conscious Learner

• 2nd Plane of Development: Childhood from 6 years to 12 years

• 3rd Plane of Development: Adolescence from 12 years to 18 years

• 4th Plane of Development: Maturity from 18 years to 24 years

Please note that the ages are approximate.  The planes describe broad developmental tendencies that we typically see throughout each age range.

Why do the planes of development matter?

Children change so much as they grow, and sometimes those changes can leave us wondering, “What is going on with my child?” Understanding the planes of development gives us a framework for understanding these changes and what children may need at each stage. 

When we recognize what is happening developmentally, we can respond to a child’s needs rather than simply reacting to their behaviour.

4th Plane of Development: Maturity from 18 years to 24 years

The fourth plane brings together much of the development from the previous three planes. The young adult is increasingly ready to establish their place in society.

Characteristics of the 4th Plane:

1. The Specialist Mind

The young adult begins developing deeper expertise and finding their direction in work, education and adult life.

What parents might see: Developing specialized interests and skills, making independent decisions, choosing a career or educational path and establishing adult relationships.

What parents can do:  Support young adults as they make their own decisions and take responsibility for their choices.

2. Contribution to Society

The young adult is working to establish their role in the community and become a capable, independent and contributing member of society.

What parents might see: Taking on greater responsibility, developing meaningful work, building relationships and making decisions about the kind of life they want to create.

What parents can do:  Give them the space and trust to become independent while remaining a source of support when they need it.