Child development stages

Child development stages are the theoretical milestones of child development, some of which are asserted in nativist theories. This article discusses the most widely accepted developmental stages in children. There exists a wide variation in terms of what is considered "normal", caused by variations in genetic, cognitive, physical, family, cultural, nutritional, educational, and environmental factors. Many children reach some or most of these milestones at different times from the norm. Holistic development sees the child in the round, as a whole person – physically, emotionally, intellectually, socially, morally, culturally and spiritually. Learning about child development involves studying patterns of growth and development, from which guidelines for 'normal' development are construed. Developmental norms are sometimes called milestones – they define the recognized development pattern that children are expected to follow. Each child develops in a unique way; however, using norms helps in understanding these general patterns of development while recognizing the wide variation between individuals. One way to identify pervasive developmental disorders is if infants fail to meet the development milestones in time or at all. Physical development Infants are usually born weighing between and , but infants born prematurely often weigh less. Newborns typically lose 7–10% of their birth weight in the first few days, but they usually regain it within two weeks. During the first month, infants grow about and gain weight at a rate of about per day. Resting heart rate is generally between 70 and 190 beats per minute. Motor development Moves in response to stimuli. Displays several infantile reflexes, including: The rooting reflex, which causes the infant to suck when the nipple of a breast or bottle is placed in their mouth. The Moro reflex, which causes the infant to throw out their arms and legs when startled. The asymmetrical tonic neck reflex, which is triggered when the head is turned to one side and causes the infant's arm on that side to straighten and the arm on the other side to bend.