Can young children use maps to navigate?

There are opposing points of view as to what map tasks children can perform as well as understand. Some studies have indicated a low level of map skills ability in children up to 10 years old, whereas others indicate that children already possess a variety of map-use skills before the age of school entrance. This study examines the ability of preliterate children ages 4, 5, and 6 to use a map for navigation. An obstacle course was utilised which the child attempted to navigate on a predetermined path outlined on a map. It was demonstrated that all the children who participated in this study were capable of extracting the necessary information from a map to enable them to navigate a simple obstacle course.