One of the initial steps in reaching to grasp an object is to derive a perceptual estimate of the object's distance and location relative to the body. Arguably, this estimate reflects a form of motor cognition - the cognitive level of action processing. An attractive approach to understanding the perceptual / cognitive component of action processing is the study of imagined versus actual movement. Underscoring the intent of this work was the desire to gain a better understanding of the cognitive level of action processing used in the planning and execution of motor actions. This question also addresses the ability to transform visual information into effective egocentric coordinates via body scaling. To accomplish this goal, we compared reachability in imagined and actual execution conditions using an innovative experimental setup found to be effective with adult participants. After examining samples of children ages 3-to 10 years (N=35) using stimulus speeds of 150ms to 2s, we determined that 5-and 6-year-olds were reliable participants. In Phase II, 12 five and 6-year-olds and 15 adult strong right-handers were tested for judgments in estimating reach to grasp an object (targets lasting 500 ms) presented randomly at seven midline locations; 3 targets beyond actual reach (extrapersonal space) and 4 within reach (peripersonal space). Target distances were scaled to the individual based on actual maximum reach. Prior to testing, all participants were trained to use motor imagery in response to visual stimuli. Participants were instructed to respond immediately with a “yes” or “no” in reference to whether the stimulus was reachable or not. In regard to total error across all targets, chi-square analyses indicated that the difference between children and adults was not significant. However, when viewing error in reference to peripersonal and extrapersonal space, a significant distinction in profiles emerged. Within the 6-year-old group, significantly more error was exhibited in extrapersonal compared to targets within actual reach (peripersonal space); a behavioral profile not displayed by the adults. Group comparison revealed no distinction in error for peripersonal space; however, the adults were substantially more accurate in judging targets beyond their reach. In essence, these data reveal a body-scaling problem for estimating reach in extrapersonal space. At this point, we are speculating that developmental differences in use of visual information exist – primarily the dorsal stream and mapping into effective egocentric coordinates. Another factor maybe level of confidence (defined as a cognitive state) in making such judgments. Keyword(s): motor skills, research