Operation (definition) - internalized set of actions that allow the child to do mentally what before was done physically.

Cognitive developmental changes 2-7 years
· symbolic representation abilities greatly advance
· stable concepts emerge
· develop a "Theory of Mind"

Thinking still characterized by:
· operations not reversible
· 'centering' (class inclusion task)
· egocentrism
· magical thinking (animism)
· appearance reality confusion

Advances in symbolic abilities - evidence
· linguistically (story telling)
· pretend play
· drawing