Chapter 6

Cognitive Development: 0-2

Michael Hoerger

Adaptation

• Definition: method of integrating new information

• Two ways:• Assimilation: fit new info within existing

schemas (way of organizing, understanding, or classifying)

• Accommodation: readjust schemas to fit new information

Sensorimotor Intelligence

• Cognitive development, first 2 years• 3 (or 6) phases

• Primary Circular Reactions: focus on body, reflexes, initial adaptations; up to 4 months

• Secondary Circular Reactions: focus on people and objects, goal-oriented, object permanence; up to 1 year

• Tertiary Circular Reactions: focus on environment, little scientists; up to 2 years

First 2 Years

• 3 months: Communicative sounds (coos, squeals, etc)

• 6 months: babbling• 1 year: 1st words• 1.5 years: 50 words (begin learning 3/day)• 2 years: few word sentences, 150 words

(begin learning 10/day)• 6 years: 13,000 words

Michael Hoerger

To cite this textbook:• Berger, K. (2005). The developing

person through the lifespan. New York: Worth.

To cite this lecture:• Hoerger, M. (2007, January 29).

Developmental Psychology: Infant Cognitive Development. Presented at a PSY 220 lecture at Central Michigan University.