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How do children develop? Children grow and change in four ways: Physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially. We can think of these four different ways as a pie. If one of the pieces is missing, the pie is not complete. It's the same with children. If one part of the child is not developed, the child does not grow into a healthy, happy adult. He or she is not complete.
- Physical development is the way a child's body grows. It is normal for children to grow at different rates. For example, some might walk at 11 months and some might walk at 16 months.
- Intellectual development involves a child's thinking. Children learn to think by undertaking challenging tasks. Reasoning their way through different tasks helps children learn.
- Emotional growth involves the development of a child's feelings. A child learns what it feels like to be sad, angry, hurt, confident, excited and happy.
- Social development is the way a child learns to work, play and interact with other people.
Characteristics of Children at Different Age Levels --
What Can I Expect From:
A Five Year Old:
- Is helpful around the house
- Mother is the preferred parent
A Ten Year Old:
- Is relaxed, casual and alert
- Is at one of the happiest ages
Preadolescents:
- Can be awkward, lazy and restless because of rapid and uneven growth
- Tend to be antagonistic and teasing toward the opposite sex
Adolescents:
- Often go to extremes
- Are emotional and can be unstable; also can "know it all"
- Are interested in philosophical, ethical and religious problems
To receive a copy of the "Developmental Stages of A Child from 1 Month to 19 Years," send $4 to: Colorado State University Extension, Adams County, 9755 Henderson Road, Brighton, CO 80601 - Attention: Janet Benavente. Or call (303) 637-8113 or e-mail: jbenavente@co.adams.co.us
For more information on child development, contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office.
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