From Infancy to Childhood: 7 Basic Development Steps that Parents Should Know
Babies change and develop rapidly from the moment they are born. This rapid change can be both exciting and sometimes challenging for both children and parents. Each developmental stage at each age has its own unique needs. In this article, we will share the basic development steps that you should consider when moving from infancy to childhood.
- 6 Months After Birth: Sensory Exploration Begins
During the first months, your baby explores the world around him more with sounds, touches and smells. During this period, breast milk is vital for the physical and emotional development of your baby. 6. after October, babies start to feel interested in food and switch to additional foods.
Suggestion: To support your baby’s motor skills and sensory development, you can introduce him to different tissues, let him explore with various toys.
- 6-12 Months: Initial Mobility and Language Development
During this period, babies develop rapidly in rolling, crawling and even taking their first steps. In addition, language development also accelerates. When you hear simple words, behaviors such as reacting, imitating sounds begin.
Suggestion: You can support language development by talking to your baby often and singing songs. Also, allow him to move by providing him with a safe space.
- Age 1-2: The Beginning of Independence and Toilet Training
At this age December, children begin to discover their independence. Cravings such as eating on their own, choosing clothes may occur. It may also be a suitable period for toilet training.
Advice: Respect their independence and be patient. At the same time, take a positive approach to toilet training.
- 2-3 Years of Age: Mental and Social Skills Develop
During this period, children show mental development such as logical thinking, understanding the cause-effect relationship. In addition, social skills also develop rapidly; they learn to share, wait in line.
Suggestion: Group games and social activities develop children’s skills such as sharing and empathy. Show them positive examples and support them.
- 3-5 Years Old: Language Ability and Imagination Develop
between the ages of 3 and 5, it is a period when language skills develop rapidly, at the same time, children’s imagination peaks. Dec. Telling stories, playing games is very important at this age.
Suggestion: Reading books with children, telling stories that will improve their imagination, increases their language skills and creativity.
- 5-6 Years Old: School Preparation and Social Skills
During this period, children begin to transition to preschool. Preschool education lays the foundations for their academic development. At the same time, the importance of friend relationships increases and intra-group skills improve.
Suggestion: It is important to learn about children’s preschool education and offer different group activities to improve their social skills.
- Age 6 and Later: Identity Formation and Independence
During this period, children begin to explore their identities more. They become aware of their own preferences, form original thoughts on certain topics. The school period and academic development, combined with emotional and social skills, begin to become a more independent individual.
Suggestion: Care about children’s original ideas and encourage them to create their own identities. Also, you can strengthen their self-confidence by celebrating their achievements.
Your Role as a Mother and Father: Patience and Support
When children are growing up, they have special needs for each stage of development. As parents, accompanying them on this journey with patience, love and understanding are the most important steps to support their healthy development. Remember that every child is unique and their development speed is different. Giving them confidence in their own journey will be the most precious gift in their lives.
