CSP4801 Assignment 6
(COMPLETE ANSWERS) 2024
, CSP4801 Assignment 6 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) 2024
Question 1 Many psychologists believe that one of the most
important stages of cognitive development is symbolic play. You
have been given a task to help a group of parents to understand
symbolic play. In ten (10) points, explain in what way the quality of
children’s symbolic play can have consequences on the children’s
later development. Include examples that are relevant to the
group of parents you are speaking to. Indicate the age of the
learners that you are referring to. (20)
The Importance of Symbolic Play in Children's Development
Symbolic play, also known as pretend play or imaginative play, is a vital part of cognitive
development, especially between the ages of 2 to 7 years. This form of play involves children
using objects, actions, or ideas to represent other objects, actions, or ideas as play. Below are ten
ways in which the quality of children’s symbolic play can influence their later development:
1. Language Development
How: Symbolic play enhances language skills as children use words and dialogue to
represent roles and objects. For example, when a child pretends a block is a phone, they
engage in conversations, expanding their vocabulary.
Impact: Children who engage in rich symbolic play are likely to develop advanced
language skills earlier, leading to better communication skills in school and later life.
2. Problem-Solving Skills
How: During pretend play, children often encounter problems, such as figuring out how
to use available objects to fulfill a role in the play.
Impact: These experiences help children develop critical thinking and problem-solving
abilities, important for academic success and daily life challenges.
3. Social Skills Development
How: Symbolic play usually involves playing with others, which requires negotiation,
cooperation, and taking turns. For instance, two children may negotiate who will play the
"doctor" and who will play the "patient."
Impact: This improves social competence, empathy, and the ability to form relationships,
which are crucial in later social interactions and teamwork.
4. Creativity and Imagination
(COMPLETE ANSWERS) 2024
, CSP4801 Assignment 6 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) 2024
Question 1 Many psychologists believe that one of the most
important stages of cognitive development is symbolic play. You
have been given a task to help a group of parents to understand
symbolic play. In ten (10) points, explain in what way the quality of
children’s symbolic play can have consequences on the children’s
later development. Include examples that are relevant to the
group of parents you are speaking to. Indicate the age of the
learners that you are referring to. (20)
The Importance of Symbolic Play in Children's Development
Symbolic play, also known as pretend play or imaginative play, is a vital part of cognitive
development, especially between the ages of 2 to 7 years. This form of play involves children
using objects, actions, or ideas to represent other objects, actions, or ideas as play. Below are ten
ways in which the quality of children’s symbolic play can influence their later development:
1. Language Development
How: Symbolic play enhances language skills as children use words and dialogue to
represent roles and objects. For example, when a child pretends a block is a phone, they
engage in conversations, expanding their vocabulary.
Impact: Children who engage in rich symbolic play are likely to develop advanced
language skills earlier, leading to better communication skills in school and later life.
2. Problem-Solving Skills
How: During pretend play, children often encounter problems, such as figuring out how
to use available objects to fulfill a role in the play.
Impact: These experiences help children develop critical thinking and problem-solving
abilities, important for academic success and daily life challenges.
3. Social Skills Development
How: Symbolic play usually involves playing with others, which requires negotiation,
cooperation, and taking turns. For instance, two children may negotiate who will play the
"doctor" and who will play the "patient."
Impact: This improves social competence, empathy, and the ability to form relationships,
which are crucial in later social interactions and teamwork.
4. Creativity and Imagination
