Families come in many forms. For the purposes of easy reading, the term ‘parent’ encompasses the biological, adoptive, foster and kinship carers of a child, as well as individuals who have chosen to take up primary or shared responsibility in raising that child. We also appreciate that every child is unique and has different strengths, vulnerabilities and experiences that shape their health and development.

When we understand a child’s unique developmental journey, we can nurture and respond to them in ways that match their age and capabilities. Knowing about child development, can give adults some clues about why children might be behaving in a certain way, or what they might be feeling. That can help you respond to the child and support their development and learning in ways that are right for their age and individual needs.

Child development includes all the different aspects of a child’s growth and learning. It’s not just their physical growth and skills, but also the changes in their social, emotional, cognitive (thinking) and communication skills, and their growing ability to understand and engage in the world around them.

Positive development and learning in their early years helps children thrive, and builds the foundation for their physical and mental health and well-being throughout life.

Key things to remember:

• A child’s developmental journey, like their mental health and well-being, is shaped by their unique genes, relationships, experiences and environments.
• Understanding what a child might be feeling and thinking about the world around them, and what they are (and aren’t) likely to be able to do at their current age, helps you respond in ways that support healthy development.
• Every child grows and develops at their own pace, and so their developmental journey is unique. While most children follow a similar process of development from birth to adulthood, some master certain skills earlier than others and some take longer or need a bit more help and direction.
• Neurodivergent children and children with a physical or intellectual disability may think, move, communicate and/or process senses differently, which can influence their developmental pathway.
• Identifying a developmental delay and getting help early can make a big difference for a child and their family.
• There are things parents and carers can do throughout the developmental process to support children’s healthy development and mental health.
• The best way to support your child’s development and wellbeing is to provide a safe and secure environment and respond warmly, consistently and appropriately to their needs.

• About child development
• Why it’s important to understand child development
• Every child develops at their own pace
• How you can support your child’s development
• More information