What is child development?
Child development includes progress in:
Gross and fine motor skills
Speech and language
Learning
Social interaction
Emotional development
Behaviour
Problem-solving abilities
Growth includes
Height
Weight
Head circumference in younger children
Body composition
Growth is influenced by genetics, nutrition, physical activity, sleep, general health and environmental factors.
Developmental milestones
Milestones provide general expectations for skills children may acquire at different ages. Children do not all develop at exactly the same pace, but monitoring milestones helps identify children who may benefit from further assessment.
Possible warning signs
Significant delay in speech or communication
Difficulty with movement
Difficulty interacting socially
Problems with hearing or vision
Loss of previously acquired skills
Poor weight gain or growth
Significant learning difficulties
Early assessment of developmental concerns can help children receive appropriate support when needed.
