The stages of child development.
And how to support them.
Prenatal
During the prenatal stage, the embryo/fetus goes through significant growth of body systems, brain and organ development. Key supportive experiences during this stage involve providing the expectant mother with proper prenatal care, including regular medical check-ups, a nutritious diet, and avoiding harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco. Additionally, emotional support and a stress-free environment can contribute to a healthy prenatal development.
Positive impact examples: In various parts of the world, there are initiatives focused on improving prenatal care and supporting pregnant women. For instance, some countries have implemented programs that provide prenatal education, nutrition support, and regular health check-ups for expectant mothers. These efforts have resulted in improved maternal and fetal health outcomes, reduced birth complications, and lower rates of infant mortality.
0 – 2 years old
Infancy
The period from birth to around 2 years of age is characterized by rapid physical growth, the development of motor skills, sensory exploration, various reflex responses and the establishment of secure attachments with caregivers. Key supportive experiences include responsive caregiving (attending to the infant’s cries, holding and carrying your baby, using a soothing friendly voice), meeting the infant’s basic needs (such as feeding, promoting restful sleep, diaper changing, and providing a safe environment), and engaging in stimulating interactions that promote sensory and cognitive development (such as singing to your child, face to face interaction, and playing games like peek-a-boo).
Positive impact examples: In some regions, there are programs supporting new parents through home-visiting programs, parent education classes, and community-based parenting support groups. These interventions have shown positive impacts on infant development, including improved cognitive and socioemotional outcomes, enhanced parent-child bonding, and reduced instances of neglect or abuse.
0 – 2 years old
2 – 3 years old
Toddlerhood
From ages 2 to 3 children experience significant growth in language and communication skills, motor development, and exploration of their environment. They are also beginning to develop basic self-help skills and a growing sense of independence. Key supportive experiences involve providing a safe and stimulating environment for exploration (removing harmful objects from the child’s reach, limiting screen time, or going to local playgrounds), encouraging language development through interaction and conversation (reading books, naming objects, giving choices, singing songs), fostering socialization opportunities (visiting with other children or walking the neighborhood), and establishing consistent routines (such as regular meal, bath or bedtimes).
Positive impact examples: Programs that support the healthy development of toddlers often focus on early childhood education and provide access to high-quality, play-based learning opportunities. They also emphasize parental involvement and offer resources for parents to enhance their understanding of child development, leading to positive outcomes, including improved language and cognitive skills, increased social competence, and school readiness.
2 – 3 years old
6 – 12 years old
Middle childhood
During the span of ages 6 to 12, children continue to refine their cognitive abilities, develop their social skills, and gain a deeper understanding of their own emotional life. They also start developing their interests, hobbies, and a sense of competence in specific areas. Key supportive experiences involve providing opportunities for academic and intellectual stimulation (reading, playing games, learning new skills), encouraging peer interactions and cooperation (participation in group activities), supporting the exploration of diverse interests (access to arts, leisure, recreational, or cultural activities), and fostering emotional intelligence (labeling emotions, showing empathy for your child, or problem solving together).
Positive impact examples: Initiatives such as after-school programs, extracurricular activities, and community-based programs that offer a range of educational and recreational opportunities help children develop new skills, build positive relationships, and enhance their self-esteem. They have been shown to contribute to improved academic performance, increased social competence, and reduced risk of behavioral problems.
6 – 12 years old
10 – 14 years old
Early adolescence
From ages 10-14, children experience rapid physical growth, hormonal changes, increased self-awareness, and a growing desire for independence. Key supportive experiences involve providing a supportive and accepting environment (through active listening, open lines of communication, validation of feelings), promoting healthy decision-making and risk management skills (letting children make age-appropriate decisions, explaining reasons behind rules and boundaries), encouraging positive peer relationships (teaching and modeling empathy and respect towards others), and fostering opportunities for personal exploration and identity formation (offering a range of extracurricular activities, opportunities to explore hobbies and interests).
Positive impact examples: Comprehensive sexuality education, mental health awareness, and life skills training provide information, resources, and a safe space for early adolescents to explore their identity, make informed choices, and develop essential life skills. This promotes well-being, including improved mental health outcomes, reduced risky behaviors, and increased self-confidence in adolescents.
10 – 14 years old
15 – 18 years old
Later adolescence
From ages 15 to 18, individuals undergo further physical maturation, continue developing their cognitive abilities, and further explore their identities and life goals. They also navigate increasing independence, peer influences, and begin preparing for the transition to adulthood. Key supportive experiences involve providing guidance and mentorship (using honest communication, helping to create a support network of caring adults), facilitating opportunities for career exploration and skill development (helping them find opportunities for learning and growth), promoting healthy relationships and responsible decision-making (promoting positive influences as well as empathy and respect for others), and fostering autonomy while maintaining a supportive network (gradually giving them more independence in managing their own schedules, finances, and daily activities).
Positive impact examples: Career counseling, vocational training, mentorship programs, and youth empowerment initiatives can provide guidance, resources, and opportunities for young adults to explore their interests, develop skills, and make informed choices about their future. Such programs have shown positive impacts, including increased educational attainment, enhanced employability, and improved overall well-being.
15 – 18 years old
18 – 25 years old
Young adulthood
The boundaries of young adulthood may vary, but the age of 18-25 is characterized by further identity exploration, establishing independence, pursuing higher education or career paths, and forming intimate relationships. Key supportive experiences involve providing access to higher education or vocational training, facilitating career guidance and mentorship, promoting financial literacy and independence, and fostering supportive networks and resources for young adults.
Positive impact examples: Career development services, entrepreneurship support, leadership training, and access to affordable housing can provide resources, networking opportunities, and guidance to young adults, enabling them to pursue their goals, develop essential life skills, and successfully navigate the challenges of early adulthood. This can increase economic empowerment, improve mental health outcomes, and higher levels of community engagement.
18 – 25 years old