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Executive functions and imaginative play: Exploring relations with prosocial behaviors using structural equation
Rebecca H Bauer1, Ansley T Gilpin1, Rachel B Thibodeau-Nielsen2
1Center for Youth Development and Intervention, Department of Psychology, The University of Alabama, Box 870348, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0348, USA.
Encouraging imaginative play in preschoolers supports the development of executive functions (EF) and prosocial behaviors. These skills are crucial for academic success and are fostered through play-based learning environments.
Area of Science:
- Child Development
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Executive functions (EF) and prosocial behaviors are critical for children's academic success.
- The role of imaginative play in fostering these essential skills requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the connection between imaginative play, executive functions (EF), and prosocial behaviors in preschoolers.
- To determine if EF mediates the relationship between imaginative play and prosocial behaviors.
Main Methods:
- Structural Equation Modeling was used to analyze data from 284 preschool children and their teachers.
- Measures included assessments of imaginative play, hot and cool executive functions, and prosocial behaviors.
Main Results:
- Imaginative play positively predicted both hot and cool EF, and prosocial behavior, independent of age and vocabulary.
- The link between imaginative play and prosocial behavior was fully explained by hot executive functions.
Conclusions:
- Imaginative play provides a beneficial context for developing executive functions and prosocial behaviors.
- Educational curricula and teaching practices should incorporate opportunities for imaginative play to support children's holistic development.
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