Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA) Early Childhood Education Practice Test

What can be inferred about children during sensitive periods according to child development theories?

1. They often resist change

2. They prefer solitary play

3. They learn with ease in certain areas

4. They are more logical

The correct answer is: They learn with ease in certain areas

During sensitive periods in child development, children demonstrate an enhanced ability to absorb information and develop specific skills. These are times when they are particularly responsive to certain types of learning and experiences, making it easier for them to acquire knowledge in areas such as language, motor skills, and social interactions. Sensitive periods are characterized by a heightened readiness for learning, as children's brains are primed to make connections and internalize new concepts more effectively. The other options indicate behaviors that are not aligned with the understanding of sensitive periods. For example, the idea that children often resist change contradicts the flexibility and openness associated with these phases. Similarly, preferring solitary play does not capture the social engagement prevalent during sensitive periods. Lastly, while logical reasoning does develop as children grow, sensitive periods are more about experiential learning rather than the logical processing of information.