Typically developing children and children with developmental disabilities initially acquire many skills by imitating planned and unplanned models.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not stated
• D. Always

Answer: (B)

Imitation is a powerful learning mechanism and plays a key role in how many skills are initially learned, including for children with developmental disabilities. However, it is not the sole or universal path for acquiring skills. Many abilities are established through direct instruction, prompting and reinforcement, guided practice, and independent problem-solving, sometimes alongside imitation but not exclusively. For some learners, especially those with developmental challenges, relying on imitation alone may not yield rapid or broad skill development without additional teaching supports. Therefore, stating that typically developing children and children with developmental disabilities initially acquire many skills by imitating planned and unplanned models overgeneralizes the learning process. The best answer reflects that imitation helps, but it is not the only or always primary route.