| Age | Stage | Abilities |
|---|---|---|
| Infancy–2 yr | Sensorimotor | Preverbal; uses all senses; coordinates simple motor actions |
| 2–4 yr | Preconceptual | Can use language; egocentric; imitation in play, parallel play |
| 4–7 yr | Intuitive | Asks questions; can use symbols and associate subjects with concepts |
| 7–11 yr | Concrete | Sees relationships, aware of viewpoints; understands cause and effect, can make conclusions; solves concrete problems |
| 11 yr and older | Formal operational thought | Abstract and conceptual thinking; can check ideas, thoughts, and beliefs; lives in present and nonpresent; can use formal logic and scientific reasoning |
From © Lagerquist, S: Nursing Examination Review, ed 4. Addison-Wesley, Redwood City, CA.