What are the main theories of child development?

What are the main theories of child development?

The main theories of child development include Piaget's cognitive development theory, Erikson's psychosocial development theory, and Vygotsky's sociocultural theory. Each offers unique insights into how children grow and learn.

Can you explain Piaget's theory in more detail?

Sure! Piaget's theory suggests that children go through four stages of cognitive development: sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational. Each stage represents a different way of thinking and understanding the world.

What about Erikson's theory?

Erikson's theory focuses on psychosocial development across eight stages, from infancy to adulthood. Each stage presents a conflict that must be resolved for healthy psychological development.

How does Vygotsky's theory differ from Piaget's?

Vygotsky emphasized the social context of learning, arguing that cognitive development is largely influenced by social interactions and culture, unlike Piaget, who focused more on individual discovery.