Cognitive skills develop naturally in a child, but they can be strengthened through activities that challenge the brain.  Cognitive skills are the brains ability to think, pay attention, problem solve, remember and process new information, receptive and expressive language, and social interaction.

Receptive skills focus on a child's ability to understand and follow directions, answer questions, identify objects or pictures, understand conversations and stories, understand vocabulary, and concepts. Learning these skills are imperative to developing  expressive language skills. Listening games that include many of these skills are fun ways to strengthen their receptive skills.

Expressive language is the ability to use words, gestures, or symbols to communicate their thoughts, needs, and emotions. It's asking questions, telling stories, and describing pictures or events.