Final answer:
Living with older siblings helps a child to develop theory of mind sooner than children without older siblings, aiding in their cognitive development during formative years.
Step-by-step explanation:
Researchers have discovered that living with older siblings helps a child to develop theory of mind (TOM) months ahead of a child who does not. Theory of mind allows children to understand that other people have different thoughts, feelings, and beliefs from their own, and is typically developed between the ages of 3 and 5 years old. This is a crucial part of cognitive development, which involves children recognizing that others may hold beliefs that are false. Engaging with older siblings may provide more diverse social interactions, promoting advanced cognitive challenges and quicker assimilation of complex social concepts like TOM.
Another important aspect of cognitive development during the preschool years includes children learning to count, label colors, and understanding basic time concepts such as sequencing. They also start to exercise decision-making skills. Play plays a significant role in learning, where through imaginative scenarios and play, children enhance their cognitive abilities.