What is meant by the term 'sensitive period' in development?

The term 'sensitive period' in development refers to a specific timeframe during which an organism demonstrates heightened receptiveness to certain types of environmental stimuli or experiences that significantly influence future development. In this context, learning a skill is particularly effective during these sensitive periods because the neural structures and systems associated with the skill are optimally developing. For example, language acquisition in early childhood is often cited as a sensitive period; children are especially adept at learning languages during this stage, and experiences during this time can have lasting impacts.

The concept highlights how various skills or behaviors can be more easily acquired during certain windows of development, which is supported by findings in developmental psychology and neuroplasticity. During these periods, the brain is more adaptable, making it easier to form new connections and learn new information. This phenomenon does not imply that learning cannot happen outside these periods; rather, it indicates that learning may require more effort and may not be as effective once the sensitive period has passed.