Human tendencies - Montessori Glossary Community Project

Innate, universal traits that are present in every human being across cultures and ages. As Mario Montessori described, human tendencies act as internal compasses, guiding individuals towards particular ends. The human tendencies include activity (also referenced as movement or work), self-preservation and self-development, orientation, exploration, order, communication, abstraction and imagination, concentration – repetition – self-perfection, and exactness and precision. The human tendencies act as intrinsic powers within individuals, and the relationships among them are dynamic, synergistic, and interdependent.

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Absorbent mindThe unique ability of young children within the first plane of development, from birth to age six, to effortlessly and unconsciously absorb and internalize information from their environment. The absorbent... More

Control of errorControl of error, a feature of Montessori materials, allows children to independently assess and correct their own work without adult intervention. Each material is designed with built-in feedback mechanisms—for example,... More
Cosmic educationCosmic Education provides children in the second plane of development (ages 6–12) with a broad, interconnected understanding of the universe and their place within it. Rooted in the "cosmic plan,"... More
Cosmic task and purposeThe concept of the cosmic task and purpose in Montessori philosophy highlights the idea that every living being has a unique role in maintaining the balance and progress of life.... More

Discipline from withinMontessori viewed discipline not as external control but as a path to self-discipline, essential for both independence and interdependence. The word “discipline,” originally rooted in 12th-century Old French as “treatment... More

Freedom within limitsThe Montessori principle of freedom within limits recognizes that children and adolescents thrive when given autonomy within a structured environment that provides clear expectations and boundaries. While children are free... More

Human tendencies

NormalizationRefers to a process in which a child, through activity and concentration, achieves a harmonious alignment of their mental and physical energies, propelling them along a healthy and natural path... More

ObedienceIn Montessori philosophy, obedience is not blind submission but a conscious and evolving act of will, rooted in self-discipline, understanding, and a deep connection to one’s purpose. Montessori identified three... More

Planes of developmentPlanes of development refers to the four stages of human development described by Montessori's stage theory. Each plane represents a specific period of growth and learning, characterized by unique developmental... More

Sensitive periodsSensitive periods are the critical time frames in a child's development when they exhibit heightened receptivity towards acquiring specific skills or knowledge. During these periods, children are profoundly inclined towards... More