Title:
CORRELATING EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND COGNITIVE MATURITY OF PRESCHOOLERS IN SOME SELECTED DAYCARE CENTRES IN MOROGORO MUNICIPALITY

Authors:
Jamal Jumanne Athuman

Abstract:
The early years of a child's life are a critical period for growth and development in both emotional and cognitive domains. Recent research has emphasized the interdependence and potential correlation between emotional development and cognitive maturity in preschool-aged children. This mixed methods study aimed to investigate the relationship between emotional development and cognitive maturity in preschoolers, exploring specific aspects of emotional development associated with cognitive maturity. Quantitative measures of emotional development and cognitive maturity, along with qualitative interviews with parents or guardians, were employed. The findings, based on a sample of 300 preschoolers in Morogoro Municipality, reveal a significant positive correlation between emotional development and cognitive maturity (r = 0.72, p < 0.001). Emotional regulation emerged as a significant predictor of cognitive maturity (? = 0.40, p < 0.001), highlighting its role in promoting cognitive development. Parental involvement and environmental factors were identified as influential factors in moderating the relationship. These findings provide valuable insights for educators, parents, and policymakers, emphasizing the importance of promoting the holistic development of preschool-aged children through effective emotional regulation, parental involvement, and supportive environments.

Keywords:
Preschoolers, emotional development, cognitive maturity, emotional regulation, parental involvement, environmental factors, holistic development, mixed-methods research.

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37500/IJESSR.2023.6410