Which of the following statements about the sensitive period for math is true?

The sensitive period for math in Montessori education is recognized as occurring from ages 5 to 6. During this time, children exhibit a heightened readiness and ability to absorb mathematical concepts and skills. This age range is characterized by a natural curiosity and an eagerness to explore numerical relationships, patterns, and operations, making it an opportune moment for introducing mathematical concepts through engaging, hands-on activities.

At this stage, children are not only capable of grasping more abstract mathematical ideas, but they also thrive in environments where they can manipulate materials, which is a core principle of the Montessori method. The focus during this sensitive period is on creating experiences that allow children to engage with mathematics in a way that feels organic and reinforces their natural inclination to learn.

Other age ranges mentioned do not align with the established understanding of sensitive periods in Montessori philosophy, as they either fall too early when the focus of learning is often on language and sensorimotor skills or occur after the optimal learning window for foundational math skills has passed.