Getting the big picture: Development of spatial scaling abilities

Spatial scaling is an integral aspect of many spatial tasks that involve symbol-to-referent correspondences (e.g., map reading, drawing). In this study, we asked 3–6-year-olds and adults to locate objects in a two-dimensional spatial layout using information from a second spatial representation (map). We examined how scaling factor and reference features, such as the shape of the layout or the presence of landmarks, affect performance. Results showed that spatial scaling on this simple task undergoes considerable development, especially between 3 and 5 years of age. Furthermore, the youngest children showed large individual variability and profited from landmark information. Accuracy differed between scaled and un-scaled items, but not between items using different scaling factors (1:2 vs. 1:4), suggesting that participants encoded relative rather than absolute distances.

► We investigated spatial scaling abilities in 3–6-year-olds and adults.
► Results showed considerable development, especially between 3 and 5 years of age.
► Large individual differences were found, especially at age 3 and 4.
► Around age 5, children's responses are becoming more accurate and more adult-like.
► This task may be used to assess spatial scaling skills in a large age range.