Recent research has changed how we think about Piaget's ideas on how kids learn and grow. Here are some important updates:

1. Kids Learn Skills Earlier:

   • Studies now show that babies can understand that objects still exist, even when out of sight, as early as 3.5 months old. This is much earlier than Piaget thought, who believed this ability started at 8 months.

2. Learning from Others:

   • Vygotsky, another researcher, pointed out that talking and playing with others plays a big role in how kids learn. Our cultural background and social connections can really shape how we think and learn.

3. Mixing Abilities:

   • Research has found that children don’t always follow the strict stages Piaget described. They can use skills from different stages all at once, showing a mix of what they've learned.

4. Brain Development Insights:

   • New brain imaging technology shows that brain growth doesn't happen in a neat, orderly way as Piaget suggested. Instead, it can vary a lot from child to child in terms of developing thinking skills.

In summary, while Piaget was a pioneer in understanding how children think, newer studies show that learning is more complex and flexible than he thought.