The Shichida program is tailored for children aged 6 months to 9 years old.
However, the last entry point to the program is at 4½ years old. After this point, it is difficult for beginners to catch up. Our students’ self esteem is important to us therefore we don’t accept new students over the age of 4½.
0-3 years old is known as the Sensitive Period as during this time, 70% of the human brain is formed. It is the largest, most rapid and most significant brain growth period human beings experience and this is also the stage where worldviews and attitudes towards life are formed. The Shichida Method is designed to work in synchronicity with the Sensitive Period to not only engage and inspire the new neural networks that are forming, but to also instil important messages about life, resilience, love and learning in the children. Children are at their most absorbent at these ages, that’s why it is critical to start the program as soon as possible.
If your child is over 4½ years old, unfortunately they are too old to begin the Shichida program. However, you can find right-brain learning resources online and even though it may take your child a little longer to grasp them it is still possible. Additionally, you can encourage your child’s curiosity and imagination and be sure to listen to and validate your child’s emotions. Makoto Shichida emphasised that the most important learning tool you can give your child is your unconditional love and acceptance.