Name one major theorist associated with cognitive development in children.

One major theorist associated with cognitive development in children is Jean Piaget. His work revolutionized the understanding of how children think and learn, proposing that children progress through distinct stages of cognitive development. Piaget identified four key stages: the sensorimotor stage, preoperational stage, concrete operational stage, and formal operational stage. Each stage represents different ways that children understand and interact with the world around them, emphasizing that cognitive development is not just about acquiring knowledge but involves a transformation in the way children process and understand information.

Piaget’s theories highlight the active role children play in their own learning, as they construct knowledge through experiences and interactions. His emphasis on developmental stages informs educational practices, encouraging educators to tailor their approaches based on the cognitive abilities of children at different ages.