Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

What developmental concept is reflected in the belief that reading to children during their first year is critical for later reading success?

1. The constructivist framework

2. Representative sampling

3. The biological-maturation framework

4. Critical or sensitive periods

The correct answer is: Critical or sensitive periods

The notion that reading to children during their first year is crucial for their future reading success aligns well with the concept of critical or sensitive periods. This concept posits that there are certain windows in development when the brain is particularly receptive to specific types of learning and environmental input. In the case of early literacy, the first year of life is a time when children are highly sensitive to language acquisition and cognitive stimulation. During this period, exposure to language, including reading, facilitates neural connections that are essential for later literacy skills. Research supports the idea that experiences during these early developmental stages can significantly influence cognitive and linguistic abilities. Reading to infants and toddlers helps them develop vocabulary, comprehension, and other foundational skills necessary for future reading proficiency. The early experiences create a solid base that supports further learning in a child's educational journey. In contrast, the other concepts are less relevant in this context. The constructivist framework emphasizes the active role of learners in constructing knowledge through experiences rather than the critical timing of those experiences. Representative sampling pertains to research methods and is not applicable to developmental timing. The biological-maturation framework can relate to growth stages but does not specifically address the importance of experiences like reading within a timeframe that optimally supports learning.