sensitive periods in perception

Sensitive periods in perception are specific times early in life when the brain is especially receptive to learning particular skills or sensory inputs, such as language or sight. During these windows, experiences can shape neural development more effectively. If appropriate stimuli are missing or inadequate during this time, it can lead to lasting deficits, making it harder to develop certain perceptual abilities later. After these periods close, the brain's plasticity decreases, making it more challenging to acquire or fine-tune those skills. This concept highlights the importance of rich, appropriate experiences during early childhood for healthy perceptual development.