Executive functions and imaginative play: Exploring relations with prosocial behaviors using structural equation modeling

Background: Policy makers have long considered how to best educate children for success. Thus, this research explored whether imaginative play serves as a positive context for developing executive functions (EF) and prosocial behaviors necessary for academic success. Specifically, we hypothesized that EF would explain links between imaginative play and prosocial behaviors. Method: 284 preschool children and their teachers completed measures of imaginative play, EF, and prosocial behaviors. Structural Equation Modeling examined mediational links between these constructs. Results: Imaginative play predicted both hot and cool EF, as well as prosocial behavior, even after controlling for age and vocabulary; furthermore, the relationship between imaginative play and prosocial behavior was fully mediated by hot EF. Conclusion: Results suggest that imaginative play may serve as a positive context for developing EF and prosocial behaviors. Curricula and teachers should consider encouraging imaginative play to facilitate the development of EF and prosocial behaviors.