Health during childhood lays the foundation for health during adulthood. Therefore it is very important to focus on your kid’s health from early on, teach them healthy habits, and most importantly ensure they receive right immunizations on time. Best pediatricians in Cumming, GA offer expert guidance for parents navigating these important milestones. Let us talk about growth and development stages that are common for every child. This will help you understand each stage clearly.
- Birth to 8 years of age – During the first year, children develop their socio-emotional aspect with growing attachments to those who are close to them. Their personalities, relationship skills, and functional skills develop according to the level of emotional support they receive during this time. By 3 years of age, they increase in height and weight, as well as develop skills such as sitting, walking, running, writing (more accurately scribbling), and talking, as well as learning important things like how to use the toilet on their own. Between 3-5 years of age, children develop their gross and fine motor skills and begin to rapidly grow physically. Overall they will keep developing their physical skills together with social and emotional skills.
- 8 to 12 years of age – The refinement of a child’s cognitive skills, personality, and interpersonal abilities begins around the age of 8. At this stage, children start to grasp basic concepts such as time and money. It is also a time when they begin to integrate their individual development into a social context. During this period, physical growth slows down slightly and remains relatively constant.
They learn to understand facts and form opinions through discussions and school projects. Children start to ask more detailed questions about the world. Peer influence becomes a part of learning about right and wrong.
For parents looking for expert guidance, primary care pediatrics in Cumming can help track their child’s growth.
- 12 to 18 years of age – Children go through diverse changes physically, emotionally, and cognitively during this period. Certain psychological changes can also be experienced by children. They may become moody and difficult to connect with. These emotions, caused by hormonal changes, will ease as they mature. Additionally a ‘burst’ of physical growth is experienced during this time leading to increased appetites, and notable changes in height and weight. They will undergo a significant change in their problem-solving and responsibility management.
Teenagers work on building their own identity and independence. Even as they grow more independent, teens need guidance. Support from family and friends is important during these times.
Conclusion
Every child goes through these stages of growth and development. Each stage builds on the previous one. The changes are both physical and mental. Simple play, clear words, and a loving environment help children grow. Remember, every child is unique. They may grow at different speeds. But these stages are common to all. By understanding these stages, parents can help children learn and thrive.
