How do human tendencies and the four planes of development intersect with the needs for safety, self-esteem, belongingness, love, discovery, guidance, and wholeness in children and beyond?
Let's break it down:
1. Human Tendencies:
The human tendencies, as described by Maria Montessori, are innate urges that drive human behavior. These tendencies include exploration, order, the mathematical mind, communication, movement, repetition, exactness, abstraction, self-perfection, and social interaction.
These tendencies form how individuals engage with their environment, seek fulfillment, and develop their potential.
2. Four Planes of Development:
Montessori observed that human development unfolds in four distinct planes, each characterized by specific developmental needs and characteristics.
The absorbent mind and the development of language, movement, order, and independence mark the first plane (0-6 years). In the early years (first plane), providing a safe and nurturing environment is essential for developing trust and a sense of security. Children also need opportunities for exploration and discovery to satisfy their innate tendencies.
The second plane (6-12 years) sees the development of reasoning, imagination, social skills, and a sense of justice. As children move into this plane, fostering self-esteem by recognizing their abilities and encouraging social interaction helps them develop a sense of belonging and love.
The third plane (12-18 years) involves the development of independence, social consciousness, intellectual exploration, and self-identity. Guidance during this period is crucial as adolescents explore their identities and navigate social relationships. Providing mentorship and opportunities for self-expression supports their development of wholeness and belonging.
The fourth plane (18-24 years and beyond) focuses on consolidating identity, social contribution, and preparation for adulthood. In this plane, young adults seek autonomy and independence while desiring connections and belonging. Supporting their journey towards self-actualization and contribution to society fulfills their needs for self-esteem, belongingness, and wholeness.
3. Needs of Safety, Self-Esteem, Belongingness, and Love:
- These needs, as described by Abraham Maslow in his hierarchy of needs, form the foundation for psychological well-being and growth.
- Safety needs include physical safety, security, stability, and predictability.
- Self-esteem needs to encompass confidence, self-respect, achievement, and recognition.
- Belongingness and love must involve relationships, acceptance, affection, and connection.
Let's dive in a little deeper; in the early years (first plane).
The Developmental Stages of a Child from 0 to 6 Years
During infancy (0 to 1 year), children embark on a journey of physical independence. From the simple act of lifting their head as newborns to milestones like rolling over, crawling, and eventually standing and walking, they steadily hone their motor skills.
“The newborn child is impotent, without the power of movement, without intelligence. He must create all this in the mystery of his life; something must happen. We cannot see into this mystery. We can only see the external results – as when the child talks, runs, plays, does things which he could not do before.”
Maria Montessori
The 1946 London Lectures, p. 92
In the toddler years (1 to 3 years), children crave consistent opportunities to use their hands. They eagerly grasp objects, reach across their bodies, transfer items from hand to hand, and carry objects with both hands. Engaging in gross-motor activities and expressing themselves verbally become essential aspects of their development during this stage.
“The child gives us a beautiful lesson – that in order to form and maintain our intelligence, we must use our hands.”
Maria Montessori
The 1946 London Lectures, p. 153
Between the ages of 3 to 6, children become increasingly active and curious, striving to understand and master their environment through tactile exploration. Often referred to as the "play-age" by Dr. Montessori, this period is characterized by children's innate drive to engage with the world around them. They seek to express themselves through precise language and movement, embodying the mantra of "Help me to do it myself" as they assert their autonomy and independence.
“In the period of early childhood they are urged by nature itself to co-ordinate the movements of the hands, as is seen in their urge to touch everything, to take everything in their hands and to play with everything. The hand of the child in the "play-age" is led by life itself to lend itself to indirect preparation for writing.”
Maria Montessori
The Formation of Man, p. 91
Dr. Gabor's insights into how a child's biological and psychological constitution influences their irreducible needs were truly captivating. He underscored the critical importance of meeting these needs to ensure uninterrupted development and sustained well-being. Moreover, his discussion on the significance of spontaneous play in fostering healthy brain development resonated profoundly. Equally significant was his reflection on the emotional aspect of a child's well-being, emphasizing the necessity for them to rest emotionally—to not constantly vie for attention, as often happens in today's world with distractions like cell phones. Additionally, his poignant observation regarding the scarcity of extended familial and communal support, including elders, grandparents, uncles, cousins, and an entire community, in modern society struck a chord with me. It's worth noting that Dr. Gabor highlighted how aboriginal (a·br·i·juh·nuhl) Indigenous families have long embodied these principles, which may come as a revelation to some, but in truth, it's always been a way of life rooted in communal support and interconnectedness. 1
It's a reality many face, but for those fortunate enough to have such connections, it's truly a treasure worth cherishing.
Regrettably, some parents/caregivers may inadvertently perpetuate unhealthy patterns, hindering children's growth and disrupting harmonious relationships.
Because of this, I wonder if this disconnect makes it hard to parent with our whole selves.
We aren't designed to navigate the journey of parenthood or life solo.
How can we, as a community, retrace the importance of fostering a safe and nurturing environment in the early years and reintegrate the role of elders, grandparents, and other familial figures, regardless of blood ties, to establish a community center rooted in love and respect?
Thus, by either trimming away or completely removing unproductive behaviors and actively cultivating positive ones, we can foster trust, security, belonging, love, discovery, guidance, and wholeness within children, ourselves, and society.
Understanding the interplay between human tendencies, developmental planes, and psychological needs helps educators and caregivers create environments that support children's holistic development and well-being from infancy through adulthood.
Question: As a community, how can we unite the innate tendencies of children with the developmental stages they undergo, ensuring that their essential needs for safety, self-esteem, belongingness, love, discovery, guidance, and wholeness are met? Does the lack of extended family and community support hinder our capacity to parent successfully?
Let's explore how we can reintegrate the wisdom of elders, grandparents, and other community members to cultivate nurturing environments that promote healthy development and relationships.
Here is an activity to do at home called A Study of One's Self. Download and enjoy!
In my upcoming Substack post, we'll delve into the concept of "play-age" as coined by Dr. Montessori, exploring its implications alongside Dr. Gabor's insights on the importance of spontaneous play in young children.
Thank you for tuning in to Montessori Heketi House. Until next time, remember to dance to the rhythm of your heartbeat and sprinkle some grace and gratitude wherever you go. ¡Adios! 🎉
Did you hear? I've launched an Indiegogo campaign to establish Heketi House, a Montessori parent-child space in Washington DC. Interested in learning how you can lend your support?
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