Cognitive and Language Development in Infancy — Summary of Chapter 6 from The Developing Person Through the Life Span
Cognitive and Language Development in Infancy — Summary of Chapter 6 from The Developing Person Through the Life Span Infancy is a time of profound mental growth. Chapter 6 of Kathleen Stassen Berger’s The Developing Person Through the Life Span explores how babies progress from reflexive behaviors to active learners who engage with their environment, begin forming concepts, and acquire language. This chapter introduces key theories and stages of infant cognitive and linguistic development that form the foundation for lifelong learning. Watch the video above for a clear audio walkthrough of infant learning and language milestones, or continue reading to explore how the brain and language blossom in the first two years of life. Cognitive Development in the First Two Years Active Learning from Birth Infants are not passive observers. They are naturally curious, using their senses and motor skills to explore their surroundings. From birth, they show preference for human voi...