Domain: NC Foundations for Early Learning: Cognitive Development (CD)

Subdomain: Construction of Knowledge: Thinking and Reasoning

Goal: Children recall information and use it for new situations and problems

Skill Progression: Recalls and uses information for problem solving

Age: 21-24 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 21-24 Months.

Discuss special or memorable events that happened at holidays, a birthday, or on a trip.

Looking at a book about a similar event or holiday may stimulate the child to discuss what happened. When an event is named, expand on it by asking the child, “And then what did you do?” or “Tell me more! That sounds like fun!”

Dramatization of remembered events is becoming more detailed and has more dialogue.

Encourage early childhood educators and parents to talk to the child about past events, such as vacations and parties. Providing dramatic play opportunities after an event also encourages the child to relive these events, thus reinforcing memory. Early childhood educators and parents can provide props (e.g., a sleeping bag like used on a camping trip) to encourage re-enactment. Remind parents that play is learning and dramatic play encourages building on the child’s experiences.