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Child Development Stages From birth until about the age of 18, children
develop intellectually, socially, emotionally and linguistically. In each stage of child
development, there is a different rate of growth for each category. When parents understand
the stages of development, it can benefit not only them, but the child as well. Some
stages are tough on parents. Many parents have no idea why their 3 month old baby won't
stop crying, or why their 2 year old has so many temper tantrums. This can be very frustrating
for everyone involved. Here is some basic information about what is going on with in
each state of child development. Child Development Birth -- 2 Years
Each and every child is different, and while the child is being exposed to language, social
situations, and learning, the most important thing at this stage is bonding. The emotional
bond between the child and the parents, as well as grandparents and siblings is of the
utmost importance at stage of child development. It is this bond that will be the basis for
every stage to follow. Learning about your child's individuality, and helping the child
to learn to trust is the primary goal for this stage. Children will usually learn walk
and begin to talk during this time, so it is a huge intellectual time for them.
Ages 2 -- 5 During this child development stage, children
begin to realize that they are separate from their parents. This concept is totally new
to them, and they explore every avenue of the experience. They begin to exert their
independence, and along with frequently saying "no", they need to learn to accept "no". Temper
tantrums are frequent, so the continuation of the bonding that began in infancy must
continue. There is also great intellectual growth during this time. They begin to speak
more clearly, and form thoughts and concepts. Their morals are also formed during this stage.
Ages 6 -- 12 Building the moral code is crucial during
this child development stage. Children are in school by this time, and their social contacts
and interactions increase. They are learning at a rapid pace. The most important job for
the parents at this time is to coach and support. Those first drawings, or won races should
make both the parent and child beam with pride. At the same time, children must learn that
they cannot excel at everything, and that is okay as long as they work hard at the attempt.
Allowing them to experience friendship, along with some guidance, can set the pace for future
relationships for the child. Ages 13 -- 18
This can be a very challenging time. Adolescence is a time where children are in a hurry to
grow up, and parents must slow them down. Although the teenagers think they know everything,
they are still learning. There is a pull between peer pressure and parents at this child development
stage. Teenagers still need guidance with both love and authority expressed. Family
activities should be routine at this stage. It is now, if ever, that children need their
parents love. Accepting that they are finding their own identity, as well as guiding them
in the right direction is imperative. While there are certain facts about each child
development stage, children should never be compared with others. Each child is unique,
and has a unique personality. Regardless of their learning ability, children with strong
bonds with their parent or parents seem to make the transition into adulthood much easier.
Cherish each child development stage. Yes, even the terrible two's and the teenage years.
All of the stages culminate to create a unique and individual adult.