Main Stages of Child Development

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The main stages of child and young person Development Child development ------------------------------------------------- Ages and stages Most of the behaviour that children display at each age and stage in their development is quite normal. Every child is unique and they all develop at their own pace. I keep my expectations of their behaviour and abilities realistic and use the developmental milestones below as a guide so I have an idea of what to expect along a child’s growing journey. At all ages and stages a child will need your unconditional love and support to help them along the way. * 0 to 6 months * 6 to 18 months – the ‘doing’ stage * 18 months to 3 years – the ‘thinking’ stage * 3 to 6 years – the stage of ‘self awareness and imagination’ * Normal but challenging behaviours * 6 to 12 years – the stage for limits and structure * Teenagers ------------------------------------------------- 0 to 6 months The only way that new babies can communicate is by crying and some do it more than others. If a baby is unsettled, try to make them more settled by checking that their nappy is clean, that they are not too hot or too cold, that they are not hungry or that they do not have wind. Give a baby as much attention as you can but if you feel that something is not right, or if it gets too stressful, then seek advice from a friend or health professional straight away. 6 to 18 months – the ‘doing’ stage Around this age a child will begin to explore the world around them by touching, tasting, looking and listening. They will begin to develop their own initiative but will want you around to feel safe. They may become curious and easily distracted and their language skills will start to develop. They may want to try to feed themselves and become fussy about what they eat. Temper tantrums are a typical behaviour at this age. Tantrums
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