Without a doubt, the early years—ages birth through five—are the most extraordinary period of growth and development in a child's lifetime. Infants begin life totally dependent on adults and then develop into children who walk, talk, write, express themselves, and communicate with the world around them. During this period of growth in children's lives, it is essential to embrace and nurture all aspects of a child's development: social/emotional, cognitive, physical, and language.
While it is important for those who care for children to focus on all areas of development, it is also important to remember that every child is unique. Their differences—in culture, life experiences, language, disability, or temperament, just to name a few—greatly influence how they learn and see the world.
This section offers parents, caregivers, and others information and resources to support and enhance the role they play in children's young lives—to ensure that children's unique strengths, challenges, and differences are honored.
During the infant, toddler, and preschool years, children experience tremendous growth and change as they progress through the various stages of development.
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The first three years of life are an exciting time for families as their infants and toddlers learn to walk, talk, and explore the world around them.
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The preschool years are an exciting time for three-, four- and five-year-olds as they explore the world in a way entirely different from infants and toddlers.
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Child development is a rapidly changing and developing field.
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All young children demonstrate strengths and experience challenges as they develop and learn. For children who are diagnosed with a disability or have other special needs, it is important for them and their families to get the support they need to be healthy, successful learners.
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