Final answer:
Parents fostering a child's initiative by encouraging curiosity and choice in activities align with Erikson's stage of initiative versus guilt in psychosocial development, promoting autonomy and self-confidence.
Step-by-step explanation:
When parents encourage little Tanya to ask questions, use her imagination, and give her the freedom to choose activities, they are fostering her sense of initiative. This is in accordance with Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, particularly the stage of initiative versus guilt, which typically occurs from ages 3 to 6 years. In this stage, children are learning to initiate activities and assert control over their environment. If successful, they develop a sense of purpose and self-confidence. On the contrary, if this initiative is stifled, children may experience feelings of guilt, which can impact their ability to act independently and confidently.
According to Erikson, this stage is crucial for the development of autonomy, self-esteem, and the overall capability to plan and achieve goals through social interactions and play. By giving Tanya this freedom, her parents are nurturing her cognitive and emotional skills, laying the foundation for a healthy sense of autonomy and the ability to navigate social dynamics.