Chapter 05: Periods of Development

Vidyanjali, parenting

In the fifth episode of “Nimma Maguvina Bagge Nimagenu Tilidirabeku,” the narrative delves into the intricate journey of human development, starting from the nascent stages of life. It unveils the existence of psychic life as early as the first hour post-birth, hinting at its presence even before birth. The episode intricately explores the sequential phases of a child’s growth—physical and mental, highlighting key milestones like the shedding of milk teeth, the onset of puberty, and the emergence of wisdom teeth. These stages, while universally acknowledged, are portrayed with an understanding of their variability among individuals, influenced by personal and gender differences. The documentary underscores the evolving perspectives in education, advocating for the commencement of learning right from birth, and the significant shift towards nurturing toddlers in specialized nursery schools. Emphasizing the period from birth to three years, once overlooked, now recognized for its critical importance in foundational development, the episode calls attention to the holistic approach to child education, stressing the interconnectedness of each developmental phase. It also acknowledges the need for a broader exploration of both prenatal influences and the stages that follow early childhood, underscoring the episode’s focus on a comprehensive understanding of a child’s developmental journey.

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I’m Dr. S. Rekha Reddy — Montessorian, educator, and storyteller with over three decades of experience in early childhood education. Founder of Vidyanjali Academy for Learning (est. 1992), I’ve been deeply involved in teaching children and training teachers in the Montessori method. I’ve led multiple diploma batches in collaboration with the Indian Institute for Montessori Studies and conducted several workshops, certificate courses, and seminars for educators and parents. My doctoral research focused on Play in Early Childhood Education, comparing Montessori and non-Montessori approaches. I’ve authored early learning books like Nanna Kannada Pustaka (1 & 2), My First Book, and Meri Pehli Kitab, and translated Dr. Maria Montessori’s What You Should Know About Your Child into Kannada. I also host three Kannada podcasts: Mareyalaagada Mahabharata – Mahabharata stories for all ages Maguvininda Manava – reflections on childhood and humanity Nimma Maguvina Bagge Nimagenu Tilidirabeku – parenting insights in simple Kannada I believe a beautiful childhood creates a beautiful world — and I’m here to journey with those who shape it.