What defines tertiary circular reactions (12-18 months)?

Tertiary circular reactions, which occur between the ages of 12 to 18 months, are characterized by a child's experimentation and exploration of their environment through new and varied actions. This stage is marked by the child's ability to discover new methods to achieve the same goal, showcasing their developing cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills.

During this period, infants actively experiment with different actions to see how their environment responds. For example, if they want to reach an object, they might try various ways to get there, such as throwing it, pushing it, or going around obstacles. This exploratory behavior highlights the child's growing understanding of cause and effect, as well as their capacity for creative thinking when faced with challenges.

The emphasis on discovering new methods demonstrates the transition from simple behaviors to more complex problem-solving, reflecting the child's advancing cognitive development during this period. This stage is integral in building the foundation for later cognitive skills and understanding of the world around them.