Early Childhood Development: Stages of Play

What developmental characteristic is primarily developed in children under age 3?

What stage of cognitive development, according to Piaget, is associated with children under age 3?

What type of experiences are essential for the brain development of newborns?

What is a key developmental theme for mobile toddlers and 2-year-olds?

What type of materials are recommended for stimulating infants?

According to Erikson, what are the first two challenges faced by children under age 3?

What is the primary role of practitioners in early childhood programs according to developmentally appropriate practice?

What question does the chapter conclude with regarding teachers' roles?

Stages of Play

Play of 3-5 year olds differs from younger children
Developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood programs are important
Decisions in early childhood programs should reflect characteristics of development, learning, and interactions
Environments, materials, experiences, and interactions should be relevant and meaningful

Under Three: Exploration

Erikson (1950) describes exploration as a challenge for children under age 3
Trust and autonomy are key development aspects
Piaget (Peterson & Felton-Collins, 1986) describes the sensorimotor stage, where learning is based on physical experiences
Neuroscience research shows that newborns' brains are shaped by sensory and movement
Babies need unrestricted movement and access to various textures and materials (papers, fabrics, balls)
Toddlers explore through physical action and developing oral language
Exploration includes interactions with adults and the environment, and communication through experimenting with different objects
Caregivers should create environments rich in sensory experiences to facilitate exploration and communication skills.
Caregivers should use child-appropriate language and teach problem-solving.

This quiz covers the stages of play in early childhood, focusing on the differences between 3-5 year olds and younger children. It emphasizes the importance of developmentally appropriate practices and the role of exploration as described by Erikson and Piaget. Key aspects of trust, autonomy, and sensory experiences are highlighted to understand child development better.