Final answer:
A second grade student can navigate to and from school due to enhanced spatial thinking, an improved ability to construct cognitive maps, and theory-of-mind development, which occur during middle and late childhood.
Step-by-step explanation:
A second grade student can find her way to and from school due to significant cognitive changes occurring in middle and late childhood. Cognitive skills such as spatial thinking and the ability to construct a cognitive map are crucial during this stage of development. During these years, children's thought processes become more logical and organized when dealing with concrete information. They develop a better understanding of time concepts, which aids them in sequencing and planning activities such as navigating routes. Additionally, the development of theory-of-mind (TOM) allows them to understand that others have their own thoughts and perspectives, which can facilitate social interactions during navigation. Moreover, their cognitive maps enable them to remember specific features such as landmarks, aiding them in finding their way.