I am Yoshida, president of Yamada Shusei Ltd., a professional apparel garment repair group in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture.
Peek-a-boo” is a picture book written by Miyoko Matsutani and illustrated by Yasuo Segawa, and has been a very popular long-seller since it was first published in 1967. In fact, it has been a great success in our home as well.
I believe that “peek-a-boo” is more than just play. It is important not only for the development of a baby's cognitive functions and social skills, but also for his or her productivity in the workplace as an adult.
The ability to enjoy “Peek-a-boo” means that the child has completed several psychological developmental tasks, including
(1) understanding the permanence of objects,
(2) prediction and expectation,
(3) social connection,and
(4) self-awareness and recognition of others.
And they are likely to have an impact on their productivity as adults.
For example, understanding the permanence of things at an early age enables sustained efforts to achieve goals. Anticipation and expectations enable one to foresee the progress of work and tackle tasks efficiently. Self-awareness and awareness of others lead to improved teamwork and communication skills.
Psychologically, it is known that play and learning in childhood have a significant impact on cognitive functions and behavior in adulthood.
Cognitive functions nurtured through “peek-a-boo” can lead to problem-solving and stress management skills in adulthood.
Incidentally, similar games exist in other countries as well, called “Peek-a-boo” in English, “Cache-cache cou-cou” in French, and “Gugus dada” in German.
The “peek-a-boo” is truly universal.
