What Are The Four Planes Of Development?

In her research, Dr. Montessori observed that children go through four "phases" of development, each one lasting approximately 6 years, and that monumental changes occur as they move through each one.

"I have found that in his development, the child passes through certain phases, each of which has its own particular needs.

The characteristics of each are so different that the passages from one phase to the other has been described by certain psychologists as 'rebirths'."
- Maria Montessori | Four Planes of Education, p. 1

She referred to these distinct, six-year growth periods as the four planes of development.

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.

The Four Planes of Development

Since you are probably only interested in your own child's plane of development, and maybe the upcoming plane, we split them up into 4 posts.

However, if you want a brief summary of each plane, check out the chart we made below.

Click on the link below to reach each one individually.

1st Plane of Development: Infancy or Early Childhood from Birth to Age 6: https://themontessoriroom.com/blogs/montessori-tips/1st-plane-of-development-infancy-or-early-childhood-from-birth-to-age-6

2nd Plane of Development: Childhood from 6 years to 12 years: https://themontessoriroom.com/blogs/montessori-tips/2nd-plane-of-development-childhood-from-6-years-to-12-years

3rd Plane of Development: Adolescence from 12 years to 18 years: https://themontessoriroom.com/blogs/montessori-tips/3rd-plane-of-development-adolescence-from-12-years-to-18-years

4th Plane of Development: Maturity from 18 years to 24 years: https://themontessoriroom.com/blogs/montessori-tips/4th-plane-of-development-maturity-from-18-years-to-24-years