Child development is a natural process that happens in a specific order for most human beings. According to the University of Michigan Health System, "Child development refers to how a child becomes able to do more complex things as they get older." With each stage of development there is excitement, concerns, growth and new learning experiences. However, if you as a parent are unsure of what skills your child should possess at any certain time, it can become confusing and even discouraging. With the right knowledge and understanding, childhood development can be a wondrous, exciting time for the whole family.
Ages 2 to 3
During ages 2 to 3, parents and caregivers should look for specific references when observing a child's physical ability, sense of self and social level. According to PBS.org, "As children have more experiences in the world, their analytic powers grow. For some time, they have been observing and mentally 'sorting' objects according to their physical properties." Children should be able to walk comfortably on their own and be able to maneuver and play with ease. Children this age are highly self-centered and resistant to change. They expect to have more independence and are starting to become more individualized. Children are more solitary in their play but may ask for guidance and help if needed.
Ages 4 to 5
At this age, children are experiencing a wider range of emotions and activities. They are becoming more self-reliant and can feed themselves with little help, dress themselves, and draw and write in simple expressions. Children at this age tend to want more responsibility and are more self-assured. Parents may notice how well their child interacts with others. Appropriate interactions include cooperative playing with other children, use of make believe and dress-up in play. Parents also will observe if their child feels proud of accomplishments and if he is concerned about responsibility.
Ages 6 to 8
During this stage in development, children are growing and becoming stronger physically. They are experiencing a better sense of right and wrong and are becoming increasingly interested in peer relations as well and being accepted. Children this age have a more self-centered outlook, notice more world events and experience an increase in cognitive abilities such as reading, writing and doing simple math.
Ages 9 to 12
During the end of childhood, children become more and more differentiated. They should be able to participate in different types of physical fitness. They also begin experiencing interest in the opposite sex and become increasingly aware of their selves and body. It is likely that you will see children compare themselves to others and find they want to join in with peer activities. Handwriting will be more defined and they will show increasing ability to work with their hands. Social skills are addressed on a daily level for children this age. They should have the ability to problem-solve, work well with others, be assertive and communicate their needs. This stage is a stepping stone to the prepubescent and teen years.
Concerns
If you believe for any reason that your child does not show skills associated with his developmental stage and have a concern, seek professional guidance. However, there is no need to panic. Each child has his own pace and qualities. Some reach certain milestones at different speeds. According to the University of Michigan Health System, "If your child is temporarily lagging behind, that is not called developmental delay." Children are constantly changing and growing. They will possess not only these skill sets, but others that are specific to them. Each stage in development can be a new learning experience, a chance for a parent to learn and explore right along with his child.
