Children grow and change so fast that it often leaves parents' heads spinning. Parents spend a great deal of time worrying about whether their child is developing normally and if he is within the parameters outlined by child-development experts. Each stage of life brings new challenges and mysteries that can leave parents baffled and unsure of how to nurture their child's growth and development.
From Baby To Toddler
Newborns change on a daily basis; they suddenly become active and moving toddlers. Many parents are concerned that their child is not progressing normally if he walks later than other toddlers, or if he is not able to move his body the way that other toddlers do. Kids Health suggests that parents remember that children come in all shapes and sizes, and that each child will grow differently than his peers. Kids Health reports that by the end of the second year, your child will be walking and running, and will be an average of 34 inches tall and weigh an average of 28 pounds. As your child gets older, Kids Health recommends talking with your pediatrician if you are concerned, but to remember that as long as your child transitions from babyhood to the toddler stage as a healthy and happy child, then he is most likely developing right on track, even if he falls below or above the average.
From Toddler to Child
Preschool and school-age children continue to grow an average of four pounds and two inches per year, reports Kids Health. Preschool and school-age children are also becoming more proficient at using their bodies to get what they want and using their hands and fingers to engage in fine motor skills such as cutting, gluing and writing. Children this age regularly engage in pretend play as well. The most notable developments at this stage include the ability to hop and skip, as well as pick up objects and complete school-related tasks. Kids Health recommends that parents ensure their child gets enough sleep, healthy food and time to play in order to encourage proper development. If there is any cause for concern, such as failure to grow or inability to do new tasks, parents are encouraged to speak with their pediatrician.
From Child To Adolescent
Adolescence is one of the most challenging times for parents because their child is striving to become an independent person, but is not physically or mentally capable of taking care of herself. Healthy Children reports that physical, social and emotional development between the ages of 12 and 21 are crucial for learning how to become independent. Puberty is the notable development during these years and, according to Kids Health, occurs between the ages of 8 and 13 for girls and between the ages of 10 and 14 for boys. Toward the end of puberty, children are at their adult height and weight, and are physically capable of having babies of their own, so parents need to discuss sex with their children at the beginning of this stage. Adolescents are learning how to become independent through their emotional and social behaviors, and Healthy Children encourages parents to provide support and attention as needed to encourage proper development.
