There is, however, a serious point to this observation on adult illogicality. We must be
prepared for parents who don't agree with our perceived wisdom (Fig. 2.3) or do not
understand the basic tenets of specific programmes. Dentists will lead less stressful
practising lives if they remember that not all their patients will always agree with or
follow oral health advice.
So Piaget should be seen as a pioneer who really set in motion work on cognitive
development, but it is now recognized that the developmental stages are not so clear-
cut and many kids are smarter than we think!
Fig. 2.2 Children aged 7-11 years are able to consider another person's point of
view. (With thanks to David Myers and kind permission of Eden Bianchi Press.)
Fig. 2.3 Be prepared for parents who don't agree. (With thanks to David Myers
and kind permission of Eden Bianchi Press.)2.2.3 Perceptual development