Growth & Developmental Milestones
Sometimes your pediatrician may ask you what sorts of things your child seems to be doing at home. From day 1 your child is growing and changing at an incredible rate. Remember though, children can only do certain things at certain times. Some general developmental things your child may be able to do (remember all children grow at different rates):
| Type of Change |
Age |
Might Be Able To... |
| Neuromuscular |
|
|
| |
6 Months |
Roll Over; Start to Sit Up |
| 1 Year |
Walk |
| 18 Months |
Make a tower of 4 cubes |
| 2 Year |
Run well |
| 3 Year |
Ride a tricycle; Draw circle |
| 4 Year |
Hop on 1 foot; Draw a square |
| Language |
|
|
| |
6 Months |
May make consonant sounds |
| 1 Year |
Say Mama, Dada, and a few other words |
| 18 Months |
Identify one or more body parts |
| 2 Year |
Three word sentences |
| 3 Year |
Name colors; May understand simple commands |
| 4 Year |
Tell a story |
| Emotions |
|
|
| |
8 Months |
Separation anxiety--may not like being separated from parents; may cry when placed in playpen |
| 1 Year |
Whether leaving a child at daycare or putting him/her down at night, you may be able to get by with a quick good-bye or kiss. The child may cry, but he/her will probably quiet down soon after you leave. |
| 18 Months |
Child might begin to throw tantrums when frustrated. The child reacts with smiles or cries depending on a parent's behavior. |
| 2 Year |
Known frequently as the "terrible two's" a child learns about the world through a series of "yes" and "no's." While frequently the most frustrating thing to hear, a child's "no" is one way of finding him/herself as a separate human being. "No" at this time is not necessarily an outright rebellion, but a need to discover his/her own limits. |
| Parent Tips |
|
|
| |
6 Months |
Could change baby talk to more adult tones |
| 1 Year |
Play peek-a-boo; Story reading more meaningful |
| 18 Month |
Ask toddler simple questions |
| 2 Year |
Talk directly and in a real way to toddler |
| 3 Year |
Help Child use words to describe emotions |
(portions adapted from Newsweek Special Edition: "Your Child" 1997)
Developmental unreadiness:
Frustration can develop when your expectations are mismatched (higher or lower) than what is developmentally possible for a child at a certain age -- Example: A parent trying to potty train an 8 month old. It's impossible, since the neurologic control and maturity are not yet present in the baby.
Mismatched high parental expectations:
While it may be beneficial to foster a calm, thoughtful approach with your toddler, don't expect him/her to bust out with, "I see what you mean. I'm sorry!" Set clear limits of right and wrong by using, "Yes," and "No!" -- Example: A parent that gets into lengthy philosophical discussions with their two year old about what is right and wrong. Your child will not understand and can therefore become even more frustrated.
Mismatched low parental expectations:
In some instances, a teen may be trying to establish him/herself as an adult individual. Even though they may feel antagonistic, understand that certain types of "rebellions" are attempts at growth. Adolescence is a time when a child is finding him/herself and not necessarily trying to send your blood pressure through the roof. Find a way to understand and encourage this growth -- Example: A parent in conflict with a 13 year old that won't get a haircut.
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