What is a primary focus for school-age children in their cognitive development?

The primary focus for school-age children in their cognitive development includes learning about empathy and self-control. During this stage, children begin to develop a deeper understanding of their own emotions as well as those of others. This cognitive development allows them to engage more effectively in social interactions, understand varying perspectives, and cultivate relationships.

Empathy aids in fostering cooperative play and conflict resolution, while self-control is essential for managing their impulses and responses in group settings. Together, these skills contribute significantly to a child's social-emotional learning, preparing them to navigate complex social environments both in and out of school.

In contrast, memorizing facts without application does not support deeper understanding or critical thinking, which are essential cognitive skills at this age. A focus solely on winning games tends to emphasize competition over collaboration, potentially hindering social development. Strict adherence to rules might limit a child's ability to adapt or engage in creative problem-solving, which is a vital part of their learning process during this stage.