The five stages of child development are newborn, infant, toddler, preschool, and school age. Each stage is marked by milestones in the way children play, learn, talk, act, and move. While all children develop at their own pace, these milestones provide a general idea of what changes to expect as your child grows. It is increasingly recognized that early and middle childhood are essential for lifelong health, learning and well-being. Early childhood, middle childhood and adolescence are the three stages of child development.
Each stage is organized around the main development tasks for that period. For example, a child under five is learning to talk and walk while a child over five is learning to solve mathematical problems. Both are different stages of childhood cognitive development. CHOC pediatric experts have created guidelines by age and stage to help you better understand what your child is going through and spot any problems along the way. Encourage your child to complete daily tasks as adults would, such as tidying, using a knife and fork to eat, and using the bathroom properly by cleaning and unloading the chain.
If you suspect your child might have a learning disability that could affect his or her working memory, your child's doctor can evaluate them for any developmental delay using validated screening tools. Infants, toddlers, and school-age children develop new skills and abilities in a steady progression as they grow older. Studies have shown that children who were not given enough mental stimulation are prone to behavioral problems, low self-esteem, poor attention, and insecurities that can last well beyond childhood. Four main characteristics can be assessed at each stage of a child's milestones: physical development; cognitive development; language development; and social-emotional development. Young children may be overwhelmed by emotion and have tantrums; remember that you are a model of their behavior; don't lose control in response. To be the best parent you can be, let's quickly review child development and the five associated stages.
A negative experience does not mean it is too late for a child to develop healthily; their development is strongly correlated with how positive or negative their care and attachment to their parents is. You can also learn more about ways to keep children healthy, happy, and motivated as they grow and change. If your child is younger than 3 years old, you can contact your state's early intervention program for more information on how to support their development. Understanding the five stages of child development will help you ensure your child has the best start in life.
