What do open-ended questions promote in children?

Open-ended questions are a powerful tool in fostering children's language development and enhancing their cognitive skills. When children are asked open-ended questions, they are encouraged to think critically and articulate their thoughts and feelings. This type of questioning prompts them to expand their responses, leading to increased vocabulary usage as they search for the right words to express themselves.

By allowing children the freedom to respond in their own words, open-ended questions provide opportunities for rich dialog that can introduce new terms and concepts, which enhances their verbal skills. This practice not only aids in vocabulary acquisition but also helps in developing their ability to communicate effectively, engage in conversations, and express complex ideas.

In contrast, the other options suggest limitations in vocabulary or language development, which do not align with the nature of open-ended questioning. Such questions are designed to inspire creativity and more elaborate language use, making them a vital component in a child's early educational experiences.