Pretending is a skill that is valuable not only in childhood but throughout life. A recent study conducted by researchers in the UK suggests that children as young as four months old are capable of engaging in pretend play. This ability to pretend has been linked to the advancement of cognitive and social skills in young children.
According to the study, children start pretending at a very early age. The researchers found that by 12 months old, about half of the children in the sample were capable of pretending, and by 13 months, they could recognize pretense. Pretending evolves as children grow older, starting with simple actions like pretending to sleep and later progressing to more complex scenarios like using objects as props.
Sophistication of Pretending
As children reach the age of two, their pretend play becomes more abstract, with concepts that they may not have experienced in real life, such as flying a rocket ship. By the age of three, children are using their imagination to pretend to be other people, animals, or even imaginary friends. This type of play helps children develop their language skills and allows them to create elaborate storylines.
Types of Pretense
The researchers were able to identify 18 different types of pretense in young children aged from birth to three years old. This study is the first known research to track pretending behavior from infancy through early childhood. The findings suggest that parents’ reports on their children’s pretending behavior, although not always accurate, can provide valuable insights into early development.
The study’s results could have significant implications for understanding the patterns of development in early childhood. By recognizing different types of play and learning at various stages of development, parents and educators can better support children’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Further research in this area could potentially lead to the development of diagnostic tools for identifying developmental differences in young children.
Pretending plays a crucial role in children’s learning, creativity, and social interactions. The ability to pretend emerges early in life and continues to evolve as children grow older. By recognizing and encouraging pretend play in young children, parents and educators can help foster the development of essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
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