Which of the following is an advantage of using open-ended materials with children?

Using open-ended materials with children provides them with significant opportunities for independence. When children engage with materials that do not have a predetermined use or outcome, they are encouraged to explore, manipulate, and create based on their own interests and ideas. This autonomy fosters decision-making skills as they choose how to interact with the materials, which can enhance their confidence and sense of self-efficacy.

In contrast, the other options, while they highlight important developmental benefits, do not capture the primary advantage of open-ended materials as effectively as independence does. For instance, sensory perception can be developed through various activities, but open-ended materials focus more on the child's choice and exploration. Similarly, following directions is typically associated with more structured tasks, and while motor skills are enhanced through various forms of play, the essence of open-ended materials lies in promoting child-driven experiences that encourage independence and creativity.