Cognitive development in children

The cognitive development of children from preschool to middle childhood is a fascinating journey marked by the expansion of mental abilities, the acquisition of knowledge, and the formation of the foundation for abstract thinking.

During this crucial stage, children explore the world around them, develop fundamental cognitive skills, and establish the groundwork for future learning. Let's closely examine the various stages of this evolutionary process.

Preschool: The Foundations of Logical Thinking

In the early years of preschool, children experience rapid growth in their cognitive ability. The preoperational stage, according to Piaget's theory, is central in this period. Children begin to develop language and mentally represent objects and events.

The imagination flourishes, and symbolic play becomes a crucial tool for understanding the world. In this phase, curiosity is overflowing, and children actively seek answers to their questions.

Language development is a key piece of cognitive growth. During the preschool stage, children acquire an expansive vocabulary and refine their linguistic skills.

Role play and social interaction foster the development of more complex communication skills. Educators and parents play essential roles in providing an environment enriched with conversations, readings, and activities that stimulate language development.

The preschool phase is also marked by magical thinking, where children can believe in fantastical or supernatural concepts. Also, the development of the theory of mind begins, the ability to understand and attribute thoughts, emotions, and intentions to others. These skills lay the groundwork for empathy and more complex social relations in later stages.

The Stage of Concrete Operations: Early Childhood

Upon entering early childhood, children experience a significant change according to Piaget's theory: the transition to the stage of concrete operations. Approximately between ages 7 and 11, children develop the ability to perform logical mental operations on concrete objects and events. Thinking becomes more logical and less focused on immediate perception.

During this stage, children begin to master more complex mathematical concepts, such as conservation of quantity and understanding of spatial relationships.

They also show an increasing interest in scientific exploration, asking fundamental questions about the world around them and developing problem-solving skills. Formal education and hands-on experiences play a crucial role in nurturing these skills.

Early childhood also witnesses the development of critical thinking and long-term memory. Children learn to analyze information more reflectively and to remember events and co